You want to live the good life, but this can often be a challenge. Life throws problems at you, and you may feel over-stressed or anxious. This can be intensified with depression or anxiety. There are ways you can tackle this, and one way you do this is a counselor based in Dana Point. 

Dana Point’s motto is “Harboring the Good Life.” You can enjoy the good life, but you must better yourself first. While a counselor can’t magically fix this, they can guide you to the solutions you need to better yourself. Speak to a counselor today and you can learn to grow as a person.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 8

Have you experienced challenges that leave you feeling frustrated and even stuck? Are you constantly feeling discouraged, disconnected from those close to you and find it challenging to move forward in life? We may think that we need to figure out how to deal with all these feelings on our own all the time but the truth is you don't have to. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in helping females who struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and the impact of trauma. I am also an Art Therapist which allows me to utilize creat...

Specialties: Addictions, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 3

I am your neighborhood therapist. I’m straightforward and matter-of-fact. I have no judgment and seek to assist you in understanding your patterns as well as increasing your understanding of yourself and the world around you. Therapy can help guide you towards creating the connection to self and to others which may be blocked by past, present, or future issues. I see therapy as a conversation and a safe space to explore your thoughts and possibilities. I have worked with individuals, couples, families, and groups of clients age 3 to 65 with issues rangi...

Specialties: Relationship issues, Anger management, Self esteem, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 10

Becoming your best self can be complicated. Defining "best" for you is the beginning . The amazement of it all is that each and everyone gets to decide and design what best means to them. Creating a safe space for that level of exploration and actualization is a challenge that I readily accept. The experience may not feel good or light all of the time, but it will be safe. As a Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years experience integrating psychotherapy, spirituality and self development interventions, I enjoy working with those interested in doing m...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Depression
Years of Experience: 10

Change is hard but possible! I am here to help you reach your goals and encourage a healthier and more motivated you. My name is Kemi Ayanfalu, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California with over 10 years of experience. I have a Masters in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflict, behavioral challenges, abandonment, rejection, grief, generational trauma, suicidal or homicidal ideations. Trauma impacts overal...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 15

I am a Jungian Certificated Psychotherapist. You will hear the language of Self, Shadow, Anima, Animus and Individuation. Depth Psychology is interested in all ages. All Peoples. All Understandings. "How does it work?" people ask. By making the Unconscious, Conscious. Therapist and patient become curious together, about your life. Psychotherapy is the inner journey towards understanding ourselves. Your journey. By making conscious our unconscious (often complicated) feelings, we project them less onto the world and less onto others. This process, brings self acc...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Depression
Years of Experience: 21

I have a Master of Social Welfare and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Southern California and have been practicing for the past 21 years. I have experience working with many diverse populations including hospital setting including end of life and crisis, geriatric (elderly), transitional aged youth (16-25 years old), substance use counseling, severely and persistently mentally ill, those with moderate symptoms, working professionals, and adults. I have eclectic style and I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing). I have seen the pow...

Specialties: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Intimacy-related issues
Years of Experience: 12

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with intimacy related issues. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 14

Welcome. Hi, My name is Jeanne M. Wenzke, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of experience in both urban and rural communities. I provide culturally sensitive services to clients of all socioeconomic and abilities backgrounds in a respectful, safe, and supportive space. Beginning therapy can feel overwhelming, and the first step is often the most difficult. There may be many issues or one primary concern that you are struggling with and would like to gain insight into and resolve. Together, we will collaboratively identify goals de...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Career difficulties, Depression
Years of Experience: 8

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Parenting issues, Self esteem, Career difficulties
Years of Experience: 6

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have been licensed in the state of Washington since 2014. My primary environment of support has been working with clients in educational settings such as helping parents support their child through the developmental stages in high school or adults managing the stresses of attending college. My background in career counseling pairs well when partnering with clients transitioning to new positions or career opportunities. Topics I provide support for have included depression, anxiety, parenting problems, career challenges, ...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, LGBT, Self esteem
Years of Experience: 7

I am a California licensed therapist (he/they) with 6 years of clinical work experience, and 10 years working in the mental health field. I have experience in helping clients with managing emotions, personal growth, goal-setting, managing emotions, overcoming addictions, setting boundaries, career challenges, religious trauma, LGBTQ+ support & gender affirming care. I believe that you are the author of your story and that you have many strengths and gifts that will assist you in overcoming challenges. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage, and...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Anger management, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 18

I am licensed in California and South Carolina. I have 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem
Years of Experience: 5

There are seasons in life that are very unpredictable, 2020 for example! If you are finding that the last few months, weeks, maybe even years have been full of overwhelming amounts of change, transition and uncertainty, your are not alone. I understand the uncertainty of life can cause depression, anxiety, and unresolved traumas to arise. In every client I have ever seen, trauma has been experienced and expressed in different ways. My goal is to assist you with getting to the heart of the issues you are enduring, while embracing the resiliency and strength it took...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 5

I am licensed in California and have worked in the mental health field for 15 years, licensed for 5 years. I have worked in various settings and with individuals of various backgrounds and needs, including children, teens, adults, and families. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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. Ta...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Grief, Anger management, Depression
Years of Experience: 10

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

How To Find Counseling In Your Area

Finding the right therapist close by in Dana Point can feel intimidating. Once you narrow your search for a counselor near the Dana Point area, you're closer to finding providers accepting new clients.

First, research what type of therapy you'd like to pursue before finding a therapist or psychologist. You might be interested in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, marriage and family therapy, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits. If you're still unsure, consider asking your prospective counselors which methods they practice.

When you're ready to search for a counselor in Dana Point, scroll through the options. Next, consider what type of therapy you'd like your counselor to be most experienced with. Finally, choose a provider located near you in the city of Dana Point or elsewhere in Orange or the state of California.

Mental health professionals working through their own practice or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships and communication skills, working through life's obstacles, or changing negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a listening ear and validation. Verified Dana Point counselors can provide licensed marriage and compassionate counseling, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

How Do Costs Of Conventional Counseling Compare To BetterHelp With A Dana Point Counselor?

Forbes reports that the average price of an in-person therapy session with a counselor in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Dana Point 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 in Dana Point: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists in Dana Point: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist in Dana Point: $100
  • Therapy with a mental health counselor in Dana Point: $80

Some counselors 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 counselors serving the city of Dana Point and elsewhere throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with counselor sessions ranging from $60 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks).

How Does Working With A Counselor On BetterHelp Work?

It's important to note that these counselors treat clients online. Online providers, including the US-based providers above, can work with people like you in or around Dana Point virtually. You do not have to commute to a counselor's office to meet with one of these counselors.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, receive worksheets, and sign up for mental health webinars. Additionally, the BetterHelp app offers a journaling feature.

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy with a counselor. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists specializing in behavioral health and relationships. You can also try a provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. Look through the available counselors above and consider which might work for you. Professionals on BetterHelp specialize in several mental health issues and modalities. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

Dana Point has many professionals who provide client-centered individual counseling in person and through online therapy. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the US. Many individuals gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy. In Dana Point, therapy can be easily to use and a click away.

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 they may struggle to provide objective guidance. Counselors are also professionals trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist may support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health or life concerns. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another benefit of therapy with a licensed counselor is having a 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 Dana Point counselor 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 can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With almost one million people in Dana Point, CA, finding a counselor can be costly, and they may be booked out with clients. Through the list of counselors above and others through BetterHelp, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching for a nearby psychotherapist close to 92624 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 in Dana Point can be a great option.

How Should I Prepare For My First Session With A Dana Point Counselor? 

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading about the counseling process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist. 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 why you're attending therapy.

Should I See A Counselor 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 counselors often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend counseling. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor 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 with a counselor.

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 Crying In Therapy A Breakthrough?

Crying can be a breakthrough for some individuals who struggle to express emotions. Others might find that they often cry during sessions with their counselor. Crying can be normal and healthy, so whether you cry or not may be a personal aspect of sessions.

Is Mental Health Care Worth It?

We may all be on different paths in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, counselors are trained to meet you where you're at. Counseling can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy each year, showing it's a popular option and may be often effective when working with a licensed counselor.

Do Therapists Judge You? 

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. Their job as your counselor is to support you and make you feel safe and respected. 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and FacebookFor mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time to learn more about BetterHelp therapists to understand the services available to you clearly. If you have any questions, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online counseling, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched with a counselor 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:

There are all kinds of therapists in the Dana Point area, including:

  • CBT in Dana Point
  • DBT in Dana Point
  • Substance use therapy in Dana Point
  • Couples therapy in Dana Point

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Dana Point.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Dana Point:

92624, 92629