Your mental state can feel like a tree. When it’s strong, it gives you the energy you need to reach your goals, and it can be a beautiful thing to stare at. However, stress, anxiety, and other problems can make your tree come crashing down if it can’t brave the storm. 

A counselor based in Mission Viejo can help. They can help you by allowing you to reach your goal with ease. By speaking to a counselor, they can build a tree that can give you shelter from anything life throws at you. 

This is John Hanig's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, LGBT, Trauma and abuse, Depression
Years of Experience: 6

It is normal for traumatic life events (such as near-death experiences, being the victim of violence, or the loss of a loved one) to cause us to become stuck in patterns that prevent us from exploring emotional pain in order to let go of it; in this way, staying stuck further perpetuates ongoing suffering, like a “snake eating its tail.” I am here to support you with untangling these patterns in order to reclaim who you are and gain satisfaction with seeing how who you are can glow brighter than ever in your relationships and community. With our work through Be...

This is Susan Faitos's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 19

I am a marriage and family therapist and I have been licensed in the state of California for 19 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, grief and trauma. My areas of focus include complicated grief, trauma and women's issues. My therapy style is warm and interactive. My approach to therapy is client centered: clients are the experts on their lives and determine the direction and depth of therapy. Through a strengths-based and solutions-focused len...

This is Amy Torn's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 22

Hello! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with more than 20 years of experience counseling children and adults. I have trained and practiced extensively as a cognitive-behavioral therapist, and I also have a passion for mindfulness-based approaches for greater well-being. As a recovering worrier and formerly fierce self-critic, I find great peace and joy in Eastern and Western spiritual wisdom. This has helped to free me from thoughts and behaviors that weighed me down for many years. I also practice and share self-compassion and mindfulness appro...

This is Ross Kellogg's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Intimacy-related issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 6

I help adults that have experienced difficult and traumatic experiences during childhood. I utilize multiple perspectives to support clients in managing trauma symptoms. I draw from psychodynamic and systems approaches to help individuals reconnect to thier bodies and in relationships. Growth after trauma is possible and I look forward to supporting you in this important work. In addition to trauma work, I also do couples therapy work. I utilize Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused techniques to help couples break harmful patterns and learn how to connect ag...

This is Virginia Ballantyne's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MSW,LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Parenting issues, Career difficulties, Depression
Years of Experience: 8

PLEASE NOTE: If this is an emergency, call 9-1-1. I generally check messages here a few times per day and will respond as quickly as I can. I am currently accepting new clients who RESIDE IN CALIFORNIA. I am available for sessions BY PHONE, VIDEO or LIVE CHAT. Hello and Welcome! Let me introduce myself. I am Virginia A. Ballantyne, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW #98267). I identify as a bi-racial woman and my pronouns are She/Her. My specialties include working with people who have experienced intimate partner violence, trauma/PTSD, anxiety and depre...

This is Joe Navarro 's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MS,LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Grief, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 27

Throughout my many years as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been committed to providing the highest level of professional and compassionate care when serving individuals during their most difficult life challenges. I tailor my approach to therapy based on the unique needs of each person I get the privilege to help. My mission is to help you gain healthy balance so you may enjoy positive relationships, fulfill your life’s purpose and achieve your highest potential. I work with clients from a strength based focus while providing a safe, non-judg...

This is Jill Di Carlo's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT`
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Depression
Years of Experience: 20

Hello, Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California since 2005. My experience includes, but is not limited to, working with adults who are experiencing challenges such as relationship conflicts, family issues, codependency, and symptoms of depression or anxiety. My therapeutic approach is strength-based, trauma-informed, solution-focused, and person-centered. My professional mission is to serve as a catalyst for positive change in the lives of those I serve. I look forward to the opportun...

This is Michelle Marquit's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MA,MFT
Therapy Specialties: Relationship issues, Grief, Self esteem, Coping with life changes, Coaching
Years of Experience: 30

I have been a marriage and family therapist and life coach for over twenty years. I have conducted many support groups for cancer patients and caregivers, bereavement groups, as well as groups for women living with chronic illness. Additionally I am a certified personal development trainer and have led numerous skills development workshops. I have worked with clients on a wide range of issues including chronic illness, cancer support and bereavement, as well as personal skills development such as managing change, goal setting, motivation, communication and s...

This is Frankie Morris-Dadzie's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts
Years of Experience: 10

Hello, I am Frankie. I am from the San Francisco Bay Area. I've been a therapist and social worker for many years, working with a vast cross-section of society. My experience has been primarily focused on working with families dealing with domestic violence and child abuse. I have also worked in the areas of substance abuse, homelessness, and mental health and illness. My goal as a therapist is to help people make the most of their lives, despite obstacles. I believe that happiness is created within. I want to assist in developing true, healthy, and inspirational ...

This is Stefan Bain's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, LGBT, Relationship issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 25

Hello. My name is Stefan Bain and I am a Clinical Therapist (LCSW) with over 25 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, addiction and recovery, career challenges, trauma, sex and sexuality concerns, aging-related issues, and LGBT-related issues. My therapy style is warm and interactive and my therapeutic approaches are based on best-practice and evidence-based. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, a...

This is Patricia "Patti" Mills's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT 90335,Master degree in psychology ,BA degree in organizational behavior
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Years of Experience: 5

Relationships*Mindfulness Welcome to my Psychotherapy practice. This is where growth and personal healing can really happen. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist committed to helping individuals learn how to build healthier relationships and achieve their life goals. I believe developing a trusting relationship is essential to create change. My approach is strength based and solution focused. I use an eclectic approach in therapy which may include Client centered, attachment, EMDR, CBT, with individuals to obtain their goals and have a successful therapeu...

This is Jamie Buongiorno's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCWS
Therapy Specialties: Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 3

Hello and welcome to Better Help! My name is Jamie Buongiorno and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I have ten years of experience working with people making changes in their lives and three years of experience as a licensed clinician. My therapy style is collaborative, non-judgmental and strengths based. When working with clients I strive to make the therapy experience genuine, supportive and specific to your concerns and goals. You are the expert of your life and my job is to assist and empower you as you make positive change...

This is Judith Leventhal's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Career difficulties, Depression
Years of Experience: 40

I am licensed in the state of California with 40+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with at-risk youth, depression/anxiety, self-esteem & identity issues. 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.

This is Theresa Leal's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Family conflicts, Parenting issues, Self esteem
Years of Experience: 20

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Elizabeth Green's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, LGBT
Years of Experience: 7

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & lgbt-related issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Jordan Allan's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Addictions, Relationship issues
Years of Experience: 7

Hello my name is Jordan and I am a fully Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 7 years of extensive experience providing mental health services to a wide variety of clients. I have successfully provided mental health services in a variety of settings with highly diverse populations diagnosed with moderate-severe Axis I mental health diagnoses. Originally, I was born and lived most of my life in London, England where I was fortunate to receive the highest education at the best schools. Later I moved to California where I enrolled in Graduate School at The Uni...

This is Dr. Jane Akponye's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Parenting issues, Anger management, Self esteem
Years of Experience: 3

My name is Dr. Jane Akponye, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. As an experienced therapist, social worker, counselor, instructor, anger management facilitator, and emotional intelligence coach, I seek to provide psychotherapy, empower clients and strengthen them to think critically, communicate clearly, to grow socially, emotionally, spiritually, personally, and professionally. I intend to use my extensive knowledge and education to provide counseling services that support the diverse community of our clientele. I have experience helping cli...

This is Nicole Stalker's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Self esteem, Compassion fatigue, ADHD
Years of Experience: 14

I am a licensed clinical social worker licensed in Colorado and California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem and confidence, child behavior, grief and loss, & compassion fatigue. My therapy approach is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is client-centered and solution-focused. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes...

This is Dolores Aguilar's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, LGBT, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 6

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. Some of my experience is in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, motivation, self esteem, trauma, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is Solution Focused/ Strength Based however I do have training in Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and CBT. My goal is to help you build on skills and strengths you already possess and I utilize a Trauma Informed approach....

This is Lynda Koliba's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Mission Viejo, California (Mission Viejo, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Addictions, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 5

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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.

Having A Hard Time Selecting A Mental Health Professional In Mission Viejo?

Finding the right therapist can feel intimidating. However, there are a few methods you can try to narrow your search for a counselor in the Mission Viejo area if you find it challenging to find therapists 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 therapy can offer various benefits. If you're still unsure, consider asking your prospective therapists which methods they practice.

When you're ready to search, search for 'therapist near me in Mission Viejo and scroll through the options. Next, consider your goals for the gender of your therapist, the type of therapy they're most experienced with, and their specialty. Finally, choose a therapist located near you in the city of Mission Viejo or elsewhere in Orange or the state of California.

Mental health professionals working through private 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 Mission Viejo therapists can provide licensed marriage and compassionate counseling, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

What Is The Cost Difference Between Conventional Therapy And BetterHelp? 

Forbes reports that the average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Mission Viejo due to a higher cost of living.

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


Did You Know BetterHelp Therapists Are Not Limited To In-Person Visits?

Online therapists, including the US-based therapists above, can work with people like you in or around Mission Viejo to offer creative forms of communication and treatment. You do not have to commute to a therapist's office to meet with one of these counselors.

Through BetterHelp, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat 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.

Suppose you're struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy. 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 therapists above and consider which might work for you.

San Jose 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 therapists all over the US. Many individuals gain further insight into their lives through internet-based counseling. In Mission Viejo, therapy can be easily accessible and a click away.


How To Know If Therapy Is Right For You?

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 as a therapist can. Therapists are also professionals trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A therapist 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 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 San Jose 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 can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With almost one million people in Mission Viejo, CA, finding a therapist can be costly, and therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of therapists above and others through BetterHelp, you may be able to find a therapist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching for a nearby therapist close to 92691 or the surrounding zip codes, consider other available therapists through the BetterHelp therapist page.

Stay Up To Date With The Leading Online Therapy 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 and counselors 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.

Emergency Situations

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:

·      National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

·      National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

·      Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

·      Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.

·      Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386 

·      SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357

·      National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)

·      Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature

·      National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293) 

·      Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19

·      Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673

Zip Codes Served By BetterHelp Therapists

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Mission Viejo:

92690, 92691, 92692

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy and BetterHelp can be found below:

How Do I See A Therapist For The First Time? 

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 therapist. 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 Attend Therapy If I Feel Fine? 

If you don't feel the need to see a therapist, you don't have to. However, some people may avoid attending counseling due to preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although therapists 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 advice. A therapist 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 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. Crying can be normal and healthy, so whether you cry or not may be a personal aspect of sessions.

Are Therapists Worth It?

We may all be on different paths in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, and goals. A therapist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities. Unlike advice from a friend, family member, or non-professional, therapists are trained to meet you where you're at. Therapy 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.

Do Therapists Judge You? 

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to protect you and them from ethical concerns. Therapists are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. Their job is to support you and make you feel safe and respected. You might consider changing therapists if you don't feel safe or respected.