In a city with towering growth and new heights, sometimes it’s hard to meet these expectations. If you feel like you're having trouble with meeting expectations, and building new connections in life, a counselor in Rancho Santa Margarita can help you. 

The city is known for more than just having the longest name for a city in California, it also contains the Santa Margarita Lake Tower, which is a beautiful tower in the city. You can reach new heights in this budding city, and with the help of a counselor, all is possible. 

This is Lee "Christopher" Lawver's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Addictions, LGBT, Relationship issues, Grief, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 21

Christopher Lawver is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with over 18 years of experience in private practice and community mental health settings. He is a graduate of Antioch University Los Angeles with an M.A. in Clinical Psychology and the University of Southern California B.A. Communication Arts and Sciences. Chris Lawver has practiced in West Hollywood and San Francisco California, specializing in substance use and addiction recovery, codependency and relationship evaluation, and self empowerment in diverse populations. In 2010, Lawver rec...

This is Kathleen Wickman's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW,CTMH
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 5

Navigating life can be hard at times, and our problems can seem overwhelming when we are facing them alone. We can be mired down in negative thoughts, feelings and behaviors or caught in repetitive unhealthy coping loop. These can make it difficult to manage our daily lives and relationships. Anxiety, depression, past trauma, addiction and inadequate sleep can further impede our ability to find balance and a sense of peace. My goal is to provide you with a place to be heard and validated with empathy. A place to work through your problems and find solutions or...

This is Cara Morales's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MA,LMFT,LPCC
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief, Parenting issues
Years of Experience: 10

Welcome and hello! My name is Cara Morales. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of California who works with young adults, adults, couples, and families who find themselves in a difficult season of life. As a therapist, I believe that life is not an easy journey, and no one is exempt from the storms of life. Having someone to walk with us through these storms is invaluable, and therapy offers a healing support system during difficult times. I received a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an emph...

This is Tyler Cole's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LPC,LPCC,LMHC
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Parenting issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 6

Hi, welcome to the BetterHelp community. I want to commend you for the courage it took to take the first steps in seeking support at this time. My name is Tyler Cole and I am a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor in the states of California, Colorado, and Washington. I am also a Nationally Certified Counselor and bring with me 7+ years of experience working in a wide variety of settings. I have experience providing counseling across a spectrum of diverse individual and family needs in community clinics, schools, residential care, and private practice. Th...

This is Julie Foley's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): M.S.,LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Relationship issues, Parenting issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 19

Life is very stressful and the pandemic has taken a toll. I am here to walk with you on your journey. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 19 years of experience. I have worked with adolescents, young adults, couples, and families. I am highly experienced in treating anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and trauma, as well as parent education, family dynamics, and family dysfunction. My therapy style comes from my desire to create an empathetic and warm, safe space to allow my clients to feel supported through whatever life throws their way...

This is Charmaine Jacobs's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Years of Experience: 3

Changing old habits you don’t like and building emotional resilience makes sense at any age. I base my theoretical approach on the widely researched neuropsychological findings of Attachment Theory. Underlying successful treatment is the richness of the therapeutic relationship. I use evidence based methods including CBT, Mindfulness and brief psychotherapy.

This is Tanya Roberts's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Grief, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 20

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 20 years of experience working as a therapist in private practice. I have worked with a wide variety of clients, ages 8 to 80, who struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, and trauma. My therapy style is warm and interactive. At times, I may utilize humor to highlight a concern, at other times I may be more directive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. I utilize a cognitive behavioral approach to therapy while incorporating natural and holi...

This is Dr. Johannes (Jean) Roux's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): PhD LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Grief, Depression, Coping with life changes, Coaching, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 3

About me: I am Dr. Johannes (Jean) Roux, Ph.D., LMFT and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist/Psychotherapist. I provide personalized Tele-Psychotherapy and Behavioral Health Coaching that is culturally sensitive and inclusive. I create an environment that is compassionate, accepting, and non-judgmental. I have worked with individuals, couples and families seeking Psychotherapy and Coaching for over 20 years in my private practice and in hospital settings. Please read more about my background, education, experience and Psychotherapy approach by clicking ...

This is Brooke Stewart-Hardin's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MA, LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Intimacy-related issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 3

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 10 years of experience working as a Psychotherapist and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with dignity and respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach com...

This is Tyesha Sullivan's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MS,LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 11

Welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I have assisted individuals and couples through different journeys of life. I have experience with different levels of concerns ranging from Dissociation to Depression. Trauma and abuse are a couple of my main areas of focus. I am a Psychodynamic therapist, but am eclectic in my therapeutic approach. I prefer to to tailor sessions to my clients and their individuality. My style is warm and friendly. I use interventions from a wide range of styles such as, Cognitive Behavioral,...

This is Steven  Frank's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Years of Experience: 30

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist. I am experienced in helping clients with depression and anxiety, as well as stress issues. Over the last few years I’ve been treating survivors of trauma and abuse. Having working in the California State Hospital system as a psychiatric technician, I have been part of a hospital treatment team in working with those with bipolar disorder (those stable on their medication). I enjoy working with couples to repair communication and trust, whether to reconci...

This is Luis Flores's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Relationship issues, Intimacy-related issues, ADHD
Years of Experience: 4

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy related issues, & concentration, memory and focus (ADHD). 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. I also work with specific populations including youth, TAY, teens, and people of color. 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 christine joseph's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 25

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. 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.

This is Desiree Katrones's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, LGBT, Trauma and abuse, Depression, Compassion fatigue
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, lgbt-related issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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.

This is Yolanda Garcia's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 9

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & depression. 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.

This is Dr. Chu Hui Cha's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Grief, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 10

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship concerns, life transitions, work stress, grief and loss, and identity concerns. I approach therapy from an affirming and compassionate lens.

This is Mi Kim's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Depression
Years of Experience: 11

I am (she/her) a Korean immigrant with 40 years living in the U.S. I come from a maternal line of shamanistic tradition in South Korea. I am a transpersonal therapist in San Francisco. My practice strives to blend my cultural upbringing with contemporary threads of holism, art, and mindfulness.

This is Jessica Sin's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Addictions
Years of Experience: 7

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California, with 7 years of clinical work experience. I started my career as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, working in both abstinent based and harm reduction settings. I employ a humanistic, strength-based approach to treatment, while incorporating other useful modalities such as Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Internal Family Systems. I believe the foundational principles of acceptance and surrender are essential to finding peace and serenity within oneself. My approach to therapy represents a blen...

This is Manuel Mercado's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Anger management, Depression
Years of Experience: 23

I am licensed in California with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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 Charlene Sims's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Rancho Santa Margarita, California (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Depression
Years of Experience: 5

I am licensed in California and Nevada with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & 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!

Having A Hard Time Selecting A Mental Health Professional In Rancho Santa Margarita?

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 Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Rancho Santa Margarita, 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 Rancho Santa Margarita, 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 92679 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 Rancho Santa Margarita:

92679, 92688

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.