Buying a home in a beautiful location is always grounds to be happy, but sometimes it can be frustrating to move to new places. Luckily, a counselor in lake forest can help you manage your life.

Lake Forest is a newer city and used to be known as El Toro. It had a huge expansion which brought new homes and commercial centers to the area. It’s got two man-made lakes from which the name is from, and is known for the beautiful recreational facilities that these houses have. With the help of a counselor, you can appreciate the beauty of this place, and even like the eucalyptus trees that are in the area. 

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Mark-Jeremy Trybulski

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT, PsyD
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
18 years of experience

Greetings! My name is Mark Jeremy Trybulski. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California, MFC53284. Yay me. I just graduated from California Southern University with my PsyD in Psychology. Don't worry, I won't have you call me Dr. Mark! LOL I live in Palm Springs with my adorably sweet Maltese, Lulu. I am very focused on balancing my life with work, school, family and friends, and enjoying life one day at a time. I practice one of two types of "therapies". I can work with my client as a Life Coach, or as a Psychotherapist. As a Life Coach, we focus on today, and how we can make it a better tomorrow. As a Psychotherapist, we delve into past events, relate them to today and how they can be used to live a happier, healthier new life. I see individuals and couples. My two therapeutic models of choice are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy. A Psychodynamic Theory is a view that explains personality in terms of conscious and unconscious forces, such as unconscious desires and beliefs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a type of psychotherapeutic treatment that helps a client understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. I have an extensive background in addiction therapy, gay and lesbian issues/concerns (I am gay, myself), HIV/AIDS, Dual Diagnosis (specifically, Bipolar and Depression), Crisis Intervention, and just plain LIFE. My therapeutic model follows along with the flexible and relatable type of lifestyle I lead. I don't rely on formalities in session, but rather an atmosphere of safety, comfortableness, sharing, and learning. As a therapist, I believe it is important for my clients to realize that we are all equals in life. And, I realize that, through circumstance and at any time, I could be the person sitting next to me. We, all, have life issues to share - both good and bad. And it is important that we have someone who will hear us and understand our concerns without judgment. All of us strive to be the happiest and healthiest we can be with what we know. But when we get stuck in the rut of trying to do better and not having the success we desire, it is important to hear another perspective. Perspectives are like clothing; try it on and see if it fits. If it does, wonderful. Wear it in good health. If not, take it back and get a new outfit. There is one for everyone out there, it just takes a little work to find the one that fits you. What is your dream? Mine is to make a difference. I know. It is all relevant. Earlier in my life, my dream was totally different. It was about survival. Well, I've survived. And now it is my turn to be there to assist others toward their survival, in any way that I can. To further that perspective, I've realized that my perspective of reality can serve as a critical understanding of one's perceived reality. My supervisor provided insight that, when we meet a new client, we meet them where they are. Not where we want them to be. I don't represent a reality with mal-intent: rather an intent towards a motivation for a realistic positive future movement. "If you do what you've always done, you'll get what you've always gotten." (Tony Robbins) ‘Do what you feel in your heart to be right–for you’ll be criticized anyway.’ (Eleanor Roosevelt)

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Felicia Ponce

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years of experience

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California, working in the field since I received my Master’s degree in 2010. I worked for a private non-profit clinic with children (0-18) and their families for five years. I then worked for a high school district providing educationally related mental health services for four years before beginning the journey of practicing independently. I have experience providing treatment for a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief, relational issues, parenting, trauma, abuse, and risk management. I also have experience teaching as an adjunct lecturer in undergraduate and graduate psychology programs at a California State University. The desire for human connection and abnormal psychology have fascinated me since I was a teenager, which resulted in my choice to become a therapist. Each work environment has provided me with knowledge and experience, but also with the honor of being present for clients at their most vulnerable and brave moments. I like to create a sense of safety for clients and draw from a person-centered approach in sessions. This means that I will remain curious about your experience and facilitate discussion which will lead you to discover that you have always held the key to unlock solutions. I also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems approach, and Solution Focused Therapy to guide treatment. Maintaining trauma-informed care is essential and I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). Every therapist is different. I tend to be somewhat laid back, as I believe clients are the experts on their lives and I want you to know the hour is yours. We will work together as a team to collaborate on treatment goals, addressing challenges, and resolving issues. I believe everyone has mental health. The severity and intensity it needs attention varies throughout our life span, just like most things. It takes courage to ask for help and I feel privileged to be in the position to provide you with support and guidance as you work towards feeling like the best version of yourself. I look forward to working with you!

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Sarah Garlick

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersParenting issues
3 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Sarah Garlick and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I have experience working with clients from many different backgrounds both in program settings and in private practice. I graduated from Boston University, with a Master's in Clinical Social Work in 1999. I believe the first step to any successful therapy is creating a safe and supportive environment for the client. Within a trusting therapeutic relationship there is the opportunity for exploration and growth to occur. I strive to work collaboratively with my clients to overcome the barriers that keep them from having more fulfilling lives. I teach my clients concrete skills that they can use to deal with current issues, and challenges that may occur in the future. I provide compassionate solution-focused psychotherapy. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, but tailor my approach to best meet the needs of my clients. My areas and issues of special interest include: - Insomnia - Anxiety - Parenting and Co-parenting - Building self confidence/self esteem - Depression - Trauma recovery - Life transitions

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Dr. Carlyn Werderman

Offering therapy in CA
License: Psy.D.
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
14 years of experience

I completed my Master's and Doctoral degrees at the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University in Los Angeles. I offer my clients an individualized, empowering, values-based, and solution-focused therapeutic approach, which derive from several therapeutic approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy, Schema Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. My previous clinical experience includes working with children, families, and adults in school, outpatient/community mental health, and residential treatment settings. I specialize in working with those who experience mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, anger, chronic pain, substance use, relationship, sexual health, and LGBT-related issues. I also specialize in working with high-conflict families, parental alienation and family reunification cases. I look forward to getting to know more about you and see if we are a good fit!

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Sharon Watson

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, and self-esteem and confidence issues. 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.

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Muang Kistler

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 8 years of professional social work experience, primarily in healthcare. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. 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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Dr. Samantha Everhart

Offering therapy in CA
LGBTEating disordersParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with eating disorders, LGBTQIA* issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I use evidence-based treatments (e.g., CBT, DBT, ACT, FBT, ERP, Parent Management Training, and Motivational Interviewing) and tailor my approach to each individual client. I am conscious of the impact of cultural factors on the presenting problem and hope to approach my client holistically, taking into consideration all their identities and values. I hope to create a safe, collaborative, and transparent working relationship to support clients making the progress they want to see. I welcome feedback from my clients so that I can make any adjustments necessary to support everyone feeling safe and comfortable in treatment.

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Bethanie Schmoeller

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
23 years of experience

If you are challenged by life stress, anxiety, depression, past trauma, or relationship issues, and looking for an experienced psychotherapist, I am here to help. With over 23 years of experience, my therapeutic approach is a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (here and now) psychodynamic (past experiences) and Positive Psychology. I am committed to helping you improve your health and well-being while providing fresh, positive coping skills to guide you to reducing your distress and suffering.​ We will identify your strengths that will get you through the challenges of life in today's environment. I will work with you to create an open and safe place where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.

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Sabrina Brown

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 6 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.

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Audrey Teshima

Offering therapy in CA
Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 9 years of professional clinical work experience. Additionally, I have extensive experience as a public school teacher. My clinical experience ranges across a variety of treatment settings including private practice, community mental health/substance abuse clinics, and in the elementary, middle and high school environment. I specialize in family conflicts, relationship struggles, parenting/co-parenting issues, motivation, self esteem and confidence, and vocational & career difficulties. With gentle balance, I will walk with you through your areas of concern as you process the vast array of emotions attached to the issues. Together, we will work toward a solution that is focused on your strengths to create a more resourceful, resilient, hope-filled life worth living.

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How to find counseling in Lake Forest

Finding the best therapist close by in Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest. 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 Lake Forest, 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 Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest, 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 Lake Forest area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest, 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 Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest 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 92630 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 Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest, 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.

Lake Forest 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 Lake Forest.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Lake Forest:

92610, 92630, 92679

Popular cities near Lake Forest, CA

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