A dedicated therapist can help you work through many things in your life that may make you feel stuck, and they can provide support and treatment for mental health issues, like eating disorders, the effects of domestic violence, or self harm. Whether you’re dealing with a chronic illness or chronic pain, self esteem issues, depression, or anxiety, talking to a therapist can help you work through negative emotions and learn to have self compassion. 

Many therapists are available in the Santa Ana area. A practice may be a more traditional way to seek therapy, but an online platform like BetterHelp is often more convenient and, in many cases, more affordable. If you want to speak to a therapist deeply committed to helping you through recovery, speak with one of the Santa Ana-based therapists below.

 

This is Dr. Arlene Unger's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Arlene Unger

Offering therapy in CA
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
30 years of experience

No one really gets through life's ups and downs unscathed. Change has a way of bringing out the best and worst in all of us. I serve folks from all walks of life, and both young and old. You might be seeking coping tools for an immediate life challenge, chronic stress, early trauma, or loss. Drawing from my background in Cognitive Behavioral, Emotional Brain Training and Acceptance Commitment Therapies, I'm here to help you find hope and relief in daily living. With a PhD in Clinical Psychology and certification in nutrition, wellness, mindfulness, life coaching and substance abuse, I'm better able to understand and assist you in finding balance, identifying as well as supporting their need for change and working collaboratively with you through the healing process. Please check out my 7 mindfulness visualization exercise books and numerous articles at http://drarleneunger@com. I'm ready to empower you. The first step takes courage but knowing I'm only a text, phone call or video session away makes reaching out for help much easier. I’m here for you right now!

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Dr. Capri Cruz

Offering therapy in CA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I knew I was called to be a mental health therapist when I was an abused and confused 11 years old foster child sitting in a therapist’s office myself. It was the very first time I ever felt safe. Since then I've gone on to receive my PhD in Mental Health Counseling and a degree in Hypnotherapy. I completed my internship at a women's residential substance abuse facility assisting women to increase their self-esteem, self-worth, self-image, process their trauma and grief, manage their anxiety and depression, and taught various life skills. I then went on to work in an out-patient substance abuse facility with clients struggling with addiction, trauma, rejection, comorbidity (two or more diagnoses i.e. anxiety, depression, bipolar, or substance abuse, etc), and feelings of worthlessness. I've also worked in conjunction with the Division of Family and Children Services to help families regain custody of their children, facilitate adoptions, and counsel children in foster homes and in group homes. I authored From Foster Care to FABULOUS: An Imperative Movement, Maximize Your Super Powers & 6 Steps to 6 Figures; co-authored Ripping Gripping Fear Out of Your Story, have several other e-books on Amazon as a result of my own life experiences, and completed rigorous research on the protective factors that evolved foster children into healthy and effective adults. Having grown up in the foster care system myself, I struggled with my own challenges ranging from being controlled by fear to overcoming abusive relationships and self-medicating. I believe it is in the transparency of my personal challenges and triumphs that I am solidified as an effective therapist, not solely by my PhD. As a mental health therapist, public speaker, and life coach (see client feedback at www.capricruz.com), I've assisted thousands of clients in achieving greater awareness of their mind, body, and spirit connection, assisted in identifying the root of their challenges in order to regain personal power through solidifying their desired identity, created action plans to self-correct and resolve inner-conflicts, and helped my clients to identify and achieve their life goals. My therapeutic approaches include, but are not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Narrative Therapy, Family Systems, Guided Imagery, Stress Reduction, Positive Psychology, and Neuro-Linguistic Programming. As a mental health therapist what I've learned is that my greatest gift to my clients is to be non-judgmental in my listening in order to help facilitate healing. I believe people want, and often need, to be heard, validated, cared for, accepted, and assisted with feedback. I believe my clients are the experts of their own lives; and I am their guide. Together we are a team. My job is to provide a safe and trusting environment that will help bring that awareness and confidence into their consciousness to empower their ability to meet their own needs.

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This is Sherie Dechter's avatar and link to their profile

Sherie Dechter

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
28 years of experience

HI, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social worker in the Southern California area. For almost 28 years I have worked with people who need extra help to get through tough situations. I have numerous areas of specialty and use techniques that I believe will best fit each client. I am committed to helping people heal and grieve. and too help people get through periods of crisis in their lives - either expected or unexpected. I want you to feel comfortable with yourself and rise to your full potential. I have worked with children, adults, couples and families as they navigate obstacles and together we create solutions. I strive to create a warm and friendly and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I believe the safety of the therapeutic re; relationship allows you to engage in a meaningful exploration of the issues that are impacting your wellbeing. Therapy is a collaborative process and my role is to empower you to reach your goals. I look forward to working together and creating new possibilities.

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Kerry Kane

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
20 years of experience

Hello! My name is Kerry and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. The majority of my clinical experience has been providing individual and family therapy services to children, adolescents, and families. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, behavior problems, anger management issues and ADHD. I would describe my counseling style as warm, empathic and goal oriented. I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Solution Focused therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to help my clients meet their goals. I am non-judgmental, compassionate, a good listener, and use a strength-based approach. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Kandice Hsu

Offering therapy in CA
License: PsyD,LMFT
GriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

Welcome to the BetterHelp community! My name is Dr. Kandice Hsu and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California. For over 8 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals and families on challenges related to grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), self-esteem, life transitions and systemic/relational conflict. As a parent, I am deeply passionate about working with individuals experiencing prenatal and postpartum depression to help them navigate and find balance among the ebbs and flow of this beautiful, yet often lonely, journey. I believe that that healing comes from making deeper and meaningful connections to yourself, your stories, and relationships. I place a special emphasis on strength-based counseling utilizing modalities such as solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), an evidence-based treatment for children and adolescents impacted by trauma. I strive to make my sessions a safe and collaborative space to help you meet your goals. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I generally check messages here a few times a day Monday-Friday and respond as quickly as I can. I do appreciate your patience when it takes a bit longer at times, as I may be tending to other clients or professional/personal responsibilities. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Harout "Harry" Ohannessian

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

When human beings experience trauma or severe life stressors, it not uncommon for their lives to unravel. My great passion is bringing healing to people who have been through a traumatic/stressful experience. I help my clients who include young adults , couples and families, to find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves as peaceful, complete, whole and safe. Moreover, I have been practicing psychotherapy since 2014. My approach to therapy is one of deep empathy and exploration. Life is challenging and can bring you overwhelming feelings of anxiety or depression. In utilizing mainly psychodynamic approach to therapy, I will work with you to understand and process experiences that are causing you pain and suffering. Through our work together, you will gain a deeper understanding of yourself, which will ultimately lead to a more fulfilling and gratifying life. Also, I know that no single approach is the right one for very individual, and so I have been trained in range of other modalities including Motivational Interviewing, Person-centered, Relational, Attachment, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, and Trauma Focused Therapies. My educational background includes a Master of Arts degree MA in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, Los Angeles. Also, I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the California State University, Los Angeles.

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Dr. Jeffrey Avants

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed in the states of California, Nevada, and North Carolina with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Lisa Carrillo

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & anger management. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Lisa Espinoza's avatar and link to their profile

Lisa Espinoza

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Nancy Salvatierra

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience working with first generation Latinx clients that are dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find counseling in Santa Ana

Finding the best therapist close by in Santa Ana can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Santa Ana. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Santa Ana, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Santa Ana or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Santa Ana area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Santa Ana, elsewhere in Orange, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Santa Ana area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Santa Ana therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Santa Ana due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Santa Ana may not take health insurance, some in the state of California may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Santa Ana, California working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Santa Ana above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Santa Ana helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Santa Ana therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Santa Ana therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Santa Ana therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in CA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 92703 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Santa Ana counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Santa Ana licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Santa Ana, California can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Santa Ana has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Santa Ana.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Santa Ana:

92701, 92702, 92703, 92704, 92705, 92706, 92707, 92712, 92735, 92799

Popular cities near Santa Ana, CA

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