Therapists in Huntington Beach, CA

I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience who specializes in treating teens and adults in inpatient and in outpatient clinical settings. My work is based on the belief that people want to be happy, effective, and successful in their lives and that they have within themselves the resources and skills necessary to achieve these goals. I believe that psychotherapy can help individuals most effectively use their resources and strengths to increase self-understanding, to improve decision-making, to solve problems, and to create the paths to the lives they want.

Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.

Struggling handling stress? Feeling stuck in your relationship? Searching for your life purpose? You should know that you are NOT alone. So many of us face hardship and challenges at different times throughout our lives. We may need support finding self-awareness and compassion which I believe is the key in the healing process. I enjoy acting as an empowering guide along your journey. I believe in our innate capacity to change and create a meaningful and UPLIFTING life. All you need to start your journey is the WILLINGNESS to take the first step & trust the process.

I have many years of experience helping individuals to overcome major life stress, transitions, anxiety, depression, or unresolved past traumas. I know that no matter how distressed you feel right now, there is hope. I specialize in helping you to identify the root of the problem and reach the other side, finding the path to create the life you envision for yourself. I work with both adults and adolescents to address a variety of issues.

I have over 30 years experience in individual, marital, family, and group counseling, working with those who have faced a variety of issues in life. Counseling will guide you through a healing process to find a profound sense of your purpose. You will find a warm, healing environment that will impact you intellectually, emotionally, relationally and spiritually. Tools will be provided to increase your sense of well being, your ability to cope with adversity, and your understanding of your brain chemistry as it relates to your emotional struggles along with exploring how one's faith can impact their transformation.

My usual clients are young adults, under 45 years age,(I do see children and elders), experiencing mood disorders such as depression, or anxiety. Substance abuse issues are frequently involved, or alcohol abuse. There are always relationship issues with others involved as well. The Goals of Therapy include feeling happier, calmer, more at peace, to reducing substance abuse and alcohol abuse. They want to learn how to improve their relationships with themselves and others.

It's tough being a parent today. Do you have a kid or teen who is struggling? Does your family need answers about your child's state of mind or are looking for actual tools to help heal your family dynamic? Our mission is simple: The Weichman Clinic provides comprehensive mental health services, evaluations, diagnosis and collaborative treatment. And we do it all in one place with a special focus on the unique physiological and psychological needs of children and adolescents.The Weichman Clinic at Hoag Hospital's Neurosciences Institute provides unparalleled access to doctors and therapists who exclusively specialize in children and adolescents. Its multi-disciplinary team of professionals treats a variety of issues such as childhood or teenage developmental issues and complex mental health concerns. Each team member bring in-depth understanding of the unique needs of young people as well as a commitment to helping them gain insight into themselves so they can grow and thrive as adults.

There is no one approach to psychotherapy that is right for everyone.  As your therapist, I will take a highly individualized approach to the work that we do by starting with a comprehensive approach to understanding your unique circumstances and goals.  My work is always guided by the  principles of a psychodynamic approach, is informed by a wide range of psychoanalytic theories and is grounded in the wisdom of somatic experiencing.

Dr. Summerlin is not currently accepting new patients. If you call, please leave a message and one of our associates will contact you.