Photo of Michael F Wood, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Michael F Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Feeling overly stressed, disconnected in relationships or just going through a down turn can be very uncomfortable. If you are struggling to figure your situation on your own, I can provide hope, connection and strategies to address current stressors as well as behavior patterns that may have started in childhood. Seeking a therapist thats a good fit for you can be stressful as well. Great things can happen when you do find the right fit. This is very important to me. I am down to earth, experienced in life and have a talent for bringing out the best in people.
Feeling overly stressed, disconnected in relationships or just going through a down turn can be very uncomfortable. If you are struggling to figure your situation on your own, I can provide hope, connection and strategies to address current stressors as well as behavior patterns that may have started in childhood. Seeking a therapist thats a good fit for you can be stressful as well. Great things can happen when you do find the right fit. This is very important to me. I am down to earth, experienced in life and have a talent for bringing out the best in people.
(949) 391-4069 View (949) 391-4069
Photo of Steve Rockman, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Steve Rockman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Having been a therapist for over thirty years, I love being able to make a difference in people's lives. My mission is to get my patients better as quickly as possible. Although I do long term therapy,the majority of my patients significantly improve in less than ten visits. Treating adults and children, I work with relationships,families,and individuals. As the clinical supervisor of THE HOPE INSTITUTE,I am experienced in treating teens and their families. Typical problems of teens include chemical dependency,Attention Deficit Disorder, Bipolar Disorder,Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Conduct Disorders,Academic Problems,behavior problems.
Having been a therapist for over thirty years, I love being able to make a difference in people's lives. My mission is to get my patients better as quickly as possible. Although I do long term therapy,the majority of my patients significantly improve in less than ten visits. Treating adults and children, I work with relationships,families,and individuals. As the clinical supervisor of THE HOPE INSTITUTE,I am experienced in treating teens and their families. Typical problems of teens include chemical dependency,Attention Deficit Disorder, Bipolar Disorder,Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Conduct Disorders,Academic Problems,behavior problems.
(949) 230-9602 View (949) 230-9602
Photo of Makenzie Gilliam, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Makenzie Gilliam
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677  (Online Only)
I work collaboratively with individuals, couples and families to create a path toward specific goals for therapy. Throughout the years I have worked with people from all different walks of life, and I believe in the importance of individualizing treatment to each person and their experiences. I have extensive knowledge of eating disorders and have assisted people of all ages in better understanding and overcoming their disordered eating behaviors. I understand how alcohol and drug addiction, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and trauma can leave you feeling disconnected from parts of yourself and others.
I work collaboratively with individuals, couples and families to create a path toward specific goals for therapy. Throughout the years I have worked with people from all different walks of life, and I believe in the importance of individualizing treatment to each person and their experiences. I have extensive knowledge of eating disorders and have assisted people of all ages in better understanding and overcoming their disordered eating behaviors. I understand how alcohol and drug addiction, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and trauma can leave you feeling disconnected from parts of yourself and others.
(858) 251-8438 View (858) 251-8438
Photo of Susan J Novak, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Susan J Novak
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Whether you are struggling with depression, suffering with anxiety or panic attacks, wresting with your marriage, coping with divorce, dealing with an illness or death, or living with a history of sexual abuse or assault, I can help you work on those issues. With over 22 years of experience, I have helped many people improve their lives. Find your solutions and start feeling better today!
Whether you are struggling with depression, suffering with anxiety or panic attacks, wresting with your marriage, coping with divorce, dealing with an illness or death, or living with a history of sexual abuse or assault, I can help you work on those issues. With over 22 years of experience, I have helped many people improve their lives. Find your solutions and start feeling better today!
(949) 245-6850 View (949) 245-6850
Photo of Jill Boultinghouse, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Jill Boultinghouse
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist. I truly understand how difficult it can be to ask for help. Many feel uncomfortable & anxious when seeking help from a counselor about such sensitive & personal issues. It takes courage and faith to reach out. I believe together we will find real solutions to your struggles.
I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist. I truly understand how difficult it can be to ask for help. Many feel uncomfortable & anxious when seeking help from a counselor about such sensitive & personal issues. It takes courage and faith to reach out. I believe together we will find real solutions to your struggles.
(949) 258-9739 View (949) 258-9739
Photo of Marissa F. DeFeo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Marissa F. DeFeo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92607
My goal as a therapist is to assist you on your journey of self-awareness and personal discovery. I like to take a here-and-now approach during therapy and I also believe that understanding your present and being able to be fully aware of your thoughts and actions in the moment will help unlock and uncover unresolved issues from your past. I strongly believe in the concept of subjective reality. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clientele and have a special interest in working with adolescent and young adult females, and individuals and couples in areas of sexual intimacy.
My goal as a therapist is to assist you on your journey of self-awareness and personal discovery. I like to take a here-and-now approach during therapy and I also believe that understanding your present and being able to be fully aware of your thoughts and actions in the moment will help unlock and uncover unresolved issues from your past. I strongly believe in the concept of subjective reality. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clientele and have a special interest in working with adolescent and young adult females, and individuals and couples in areas of sexual intimacy.
(541) 699-1083 View (541) 699-1083
Photo of Patti Britton in Laguna Niguel, CA
Patti Britton
PhD, MPH, ACSE, FAACS, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92607  (Online Only)
If you are looking to overcome your lack of sexual satisfaction, sexual inexperience, sexual or relationship breakdowns, shame, fear or guilt-- or if you just want to learn how to reboot your sex life, you've landed in the right place. I am the pioneer of the profession of sex coaching and a seasoned sexuality expert. I work with individuals and couples seeking the best of sex coaching to help them become their authentic sexual selves and feel the joys of lasting sexual pleasure, alone and with a partner. My unique method delivers results! My passion is to serve my own Boomer Generation. I specialize in healthy sexy aging. Find me!
If you are looking to overcome your lack of sexual satisfaction, sexual inexperience, sexual or relationship breakdowns, shame, fear or guilt-- or if you just want to learn how to reboot your sex life, you've landed in the right place. I am the pioneer of the profession of sex coaching and a seasoned sexuality expert. I work with individuals and couples seeking the best of sex coaching to help them become their authentic sexual selves and feel the joys of lasting sexual pleasure, alone and with a partner. My unique method delivers results! My passion is to serve my own Boomer Generation. I specialize in healthy sexy aging. Find me!
(323) 515-8802 View (323) 515-8802
Photo of Wave After Wave Counseling, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Laguna Niguel, CA
Wave After Wave Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Your son is definitely going through something. You're worried about the pre-teen, teen, or young adult in your life. He seems down, depressed, discouraged, but then just tunes out the world with his screens. He's anxious, dealing with pressure, school, friends, & he needs to face his struggles. He won't open up much to you or other family members. He seems to be isolating more - you think he might have some addiction going on. He's not as interested in his usual activities. You're basically concerned about the direction of his life. What you really want is your kid to be happy, motivated, and moving in a better direction.
Your son is definitely going through something. You're worried about the pre-teen, teen, or young adult in your life. He seems down, depressed, discouraged, but then just tunes out the world with his screens. He's anxious, dealing with pressure, school, friends, & he needs to face his struggles. He won't open up much to you or other family members. He seems to be isolating more - you think he might have some addiction going on. He's not as interested in his usual activities. You're basically concerned about the direction of his life. What you really want is your kid to be happy, motivated, and moving in a better direction.
(949) 334-2376 View (949) 334-2376
Photo of Nicole Moriarty: Trauma Resolution Therapy, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Laguna Niguel, CA
Nicole Moriarty: Trauma Resolution Therapy
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
There is a solution. There is hope. And there is healing. Anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, disruption in relationships, substance abuse, and on and on. These are curable, changeable, healable issues. When you go straight to the root of the issue, you can bring deep, lasting change. And we now know that the root of every mental health disorder (and many physical diseases as well) is some form of unresolved trauma. Trauma refers to any moment in our lives that we were unsafe in some way. Big or small, single events or years-long patterns-if we aren't able to process it, we store it.
There is a solution. There is hope. And there is healing. Anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, disruption in relationships, substance abuse, and on and on. These are curable, changeable, healable issues. When you go straight to the root of the issue, you can bring deep, lasting change. And we now know that the root of every mental health disorder (and many physical diseases as well) is some form of unresolved trauma. Trauma refers to any moment in our lives that we were unsafe in some way. Big or small, single events or years-long patterns-if we aren't able to process it, we store it.
(949) 534-0813 View (949) 534-0813
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(562) 268-1303 View (562) 268-1303

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lee R. Blackwell, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Lee R. Blackwell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
My training as a sex therapist and then being Co-Director of the UCLA Human Sexuality Clinic for 10 years provides me with a solid background to work with sexual dysfunction, sexual addiction/compulsion, or sexual trauma in a caring and direct way.
I work mainly with adults and late adolescents, individually, in couples and in groups. The areas I specialize in are sexual issues (individuals or couples), adults molested as children, emotional intimacy, communication, anxiety, depression, self-awareness, and deep and lasting character change. In my 45 years of practicing counseling and psychotherapy I've worked with a wide variety of people of different ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, religions, and those with physical challenges. I find it immensely rewarding to work with people who are actively seeking to resolve problems through increased self-awareness.
My training as a sex therapist and then being Co-Director of the UCLA Human Sexuality Clinic for 10 years provides me with a solid background to work with sexual dysfunction, sexual addiction/compulsion, or sexual trauma in a caring and direct way.
I work mainly with adults and late adolescents, individually, in couples and in groups. The areas I specialize in are sexual issues (individuals or couples), adults molested as children, emotional intimacy, communication, anxiety, depression, self-awareness, and deep and lasting character change. In my 45 years of practicing counseling and psychotherapy I've worked with a wide variety of people of different ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, religions, and those with physical challenges. I find it immensely rewarding to work with people who are actively seeking to resolve problems through increased self-awareness.
(714) 584-4901 View (714) 584-4901
Photo of Allison Kent, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Allison Kent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92652  (Online Only)
I work with those that are looking to find better ways to handle interpersonal challenges and navigate life changes more effectively. My approach is fairly straightforward, I talk to people like they are people.
I work with those that are looking to find better ways to handle interpersonal challenges and navigate life changes more effectively. My approach is fairly straightforward, I talk to people like they are people.
(562) 479-7773 View (562) 479-7773
Photo of Jennifer L DeFeo, Psychologist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Jennifer L DeFeo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist in California and Oregon and have been practicing for over 20 years. Therapy is about safety, which encompasses a trusting and non-judgmental environment. This is the biggest asset that you will experience when working with me; safety and unconditional positive regard. I am committed to empowering my clients to navigate their challenges and provide the safe environment to do so. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clientele and believe that therapy is a joint experience that we will pursue together.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist in California and Oregon and have been practicing for over 20 years. Therapy is about safety, which encompasses a trusting and non-judgmental environment. This is the biggest asset that you will experience when working with me; safety and unconditional positive regard. I am committed to empowering my clients to navigate their challenges and provide the safe environment to do so. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clientele and believe that therapy is a joint experience that we will pursue together.
(541) 203-6701 View (541) 203-6701
Photo of Elise Marie Collier, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Elise Marie Collier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CEMDR, CAS, CPAP
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92654
Elise Collier specializes in the treatment of substance abuse and trauma, in addition to family/couple issues, CPTSD, depression and anxiety. Elise has been in practice since 2009 with years of experience working in residential treatment facilities, intensive outpatients and private practice settings. Elise has developed a specialty in the treatment of addictions, self mutilation (cutting) and complex PTSD. She has extensive training in DBT, Psychodrama, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, attachment based Somatic Experiencing and is a certified EMDR, TraumaFocused Cognitive Behavioral therapist and psychedelic assisted therapy.
Elise Collier specializes in the treatment of substance abuse and trauma, in addition to family/couple issues, CPTSD, depression and anxiety. Elise has been in practice since 2009 with years of experience working in residential treatment facilities, intensive outpatients and private practice settings. Elise has developed a specialty in the treatment of addictions, self mutilation (cutting) and complex PTSD. She has extensive training in DBT, Psychodrama, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, attachment based Somatic Experiencing and is a certified EMDR, TraumaFocused Cognitive Behavioral therapist and psychedelic assisted therapy.
(562) 741-8670 View (562) 741-8670
Photo of Summer Witty, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Summer Witty
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92652  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we can feel inadequate in dealing with life struggles that come our way. Sometimes we feel like we've tried everything, but for some reason we still feel stuck despite our best efforts. Although there are times in our lives when we feel great, there are also times in our lives when we feel hopeless, anxious, depressed, or even lost. Sometimes, we can pinpoint why we feel this way, and other times, these feelings seem to just come upon us for no apparent reason. Both can make life incredibly difficult.
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we can feel inadequate in dealing with life struggles that come our way. Sometimes we feel like we've tried everything, but for some reason we still feel stuck despite our best efforts. Although there are times in our lives when we feel great, there are also times in our lives when we feel hopeless, anxious, depressed, or even lost. Sometimes, we can pinpoint why we feel this way, and other times, these feelings seem to just come upon us for no apparent reason. Both can make life incredibly difficult.
(949) 536-9770 View (949) 536-9770
Photo of Sharm Lanel Luehmann, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Sharm Lanel Luehmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
I became a marriage and family therapist through a spiritual inspiration. My goal is to help individuals become connected to themselves and the world around them. I believe we are all wounded not broken and deserve an opportunity to heal. My methods are uniquely connected to my personality. I am both loving and direct, and desire to get to the goal as quickly as possible. I think out of the box yet remain professional. I am insightful, intuitive and creative in my approach.
I became a marriage and family therapist through a spiritual inspiration. My goal is to help individuals become connected to themselves and the world around them. I believe we are all wounded not broken and deserve an opportunity to heal. My methods are uniquely connected to my personality. I am both loving and direct, and desire to get to the goal as quickly as possible. I think out of the box yet remain professional. I am insightful, intuitive and creative in my approach.
(949) 536-8723 View (949) 536-8723
Photo of Afsaneh K Alisobhani, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Afsaneh K Alisobhani
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Most of us go through difficult periods in our lives where we feel overwhelmed, alone, and confused. Sometimes, inevitable events in life, even happy ones, like starting a relationship, going off to college, or retirement, expose the wounds and memories from a recent or distant past that make the current situation painful and unbearable. While we survive those situations and adapt to the new realities of our circumstances, psychotherapy, specifically psychodynamic psychotherapy uses these moments as opportunities for a path for self-discovery and a chance to reevaluate our priorities and find meaning and purpose in our lives.
Most of us go through difficult periods in our lives where we feel overwhelmed, alone, and confused. Sometimes, inevitable events in life, even happy ones, like starting a relationship, going off to college, or retirement, expose the wounds and memories from a recent or distant past that make the current situation painful and unbearable. While we survive those situations and adapt to the new realities of our circumstances, psychotherapy, specifically psychodynamic psychotherapy uses these moments as opportunities for a path for self-discovery and a chance to reevaluate our priorities and find meaning and purpose in our lives.
(714) 278-4388 View (714) 278-4388
Photo of Andrea D Schoon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Andrea D Schoon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
When you have tried to resolve issues on your own, and things just aren't changing, it is time to seek professional help. Perhaps your or your significant other's past and unresolved issues are what is creating the distress; an inability to trust, to feel joy and happiness, to pursue dreams. It is important to seek help early on so that things do not worsen. Whether you are seeking marriage counseling, individual therapy, or therapy for your teen, I can help you get on track to a healthier more fulfilling life.
When you have tried to resolve issues on your own, and things just aren't changing, it is time to seek professional help. Perhaps your or your significant other's past and unresolved issues are what is creating the distress; an inability to trust, to feel joy and happiness, to pursue dreams. It is important to seek help early on so that things do not worsen. Whether you are seeking marriage counseling, individual therapy, or therapy for your teen, I can help you get on track to a healthier more fulfilling life.
(714) 942-5618 View (714) 942-5618
Photo of Jean Wolfe Powers Psychotherapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Jean Wolfe Powers Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMC, ACC
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651  (Online Only)
My extensive work with trauma, grief, and loss has earned worldwide attention spanning across four decades. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and International Certified Life Coach, I work with individuals, families, and groups to transform mental and emotional challenges into experiences of thriving health and well-being. My early career defining work began in the 80’s alongside John Bradshaw and focused on addiction, recovery, and codependency. Together with a team of cutting-edge psychotherapists, I developed groundbreaking techniques for understanding trauma: when it starts, how it affects the brain, and how to heal.
My extensive work with trauma, grief, and loss has earned worldwide attention spanning across four decades. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and International Certified Life Coach, I work with individuals, families, and groups to transform mental and emotional challenges into experiences of thriving health and well-being. My early career defining work began in the 80’s alongside John Bradshaw and focused on addiction, recovery, and codependency. Together with a team of cutting-edge psychotherapists, I developed groundbreaking techniques for understanding trauma: when it starts, how it affects the brain, and how to heal.
(805) 283-6695 View (805) 283-6695
Photo of Denise Bonner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Laguna Niguel, CA
Denise Bonner
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Welcome my name is Denise Bonner, I am licensed therapist, working with individuals and couples for over 20 years. My purpose and intention is to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients within a framework of non judgement and complete acceptance. This enables my clients to feel safe and comfortable to reveal their innermost thoughts and feelings.
Welcome my name is Denise Bonner, I am licensed therapist, working with individuals and couples for over 20 years. My purpose and intention is to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients within a framework of non judgement and complete acceptance. This enables my clients to feel safe and comfortable to reveal their innermost thoughts and feelings.
(949) 682-3581 View (949) 682-3581

See more therapy options for Laguna Niguel

Sexual Addiction Therapists

When should someone seek treatment for sex addiction?

People should seek treatment for sex addiction if they cannot control their sexual thoughts or behaviours to the point that it disrupts their ability to function in daily life, for example by threatening their finances, career, or relationships. This may include spending an excessive amount of time obsessing over sex, planning sex, watching pornography, or masturbating, as well as consistently engaging in risky sexual activities, using sex to escape distressing feelings, or attempting yet failing to control sexual behavior.

What are the most common treatment options for sex addiction?

Psychotherapy is the most common treatment for sex addiction; therapy helps patients better understand their compulsive thoughts and behaviors and develop strategies to manage their desires. Therapy may be supplemented by medications, such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, anti-androgens, and the alcohol and substance use medication Naltrexone, as well as support groups, such as 12-step programs.

How long does therapy take for sex addiction?

Recovering from compulsive behavior takes time and effort. There’s no precise timeline for treatment, but research suggests 12 therapy sessions may be enough to see change. Treatment for sexual compulsions requires honesty in therapy, a commitment to understanding triggers and developing coping skills, and potential lifestyle changes such as cutting out alcohol or drugs.

What if sex addiction is left untreated?

Compulsive sexual behavior can have serious repercussions if left unaddressed. For example, if sexual obsessions consume the vast majority of a person’s time, they may lose their job. If they can’t stop paying for sex, their finances may suffer. If they’re dishonest in their relationships, their partner may leave them. If they consistently feel shame, they may struggle with anxiety, depression, or loneliness. Therapy can help people develop the tools to manage sexual thoughts and behaviors that feel uncontrollable.