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. 

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 20

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, and life changes due to aging and medical conditions. My counseling style is supportive and interactive. I believe in treating people with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psycho-dynamic, acceptance, and mindfulness counseling. I log into BetterHelp several t...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Depression, ADHD
Years of Experience: 18

Hello, my name is Rhiannon and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I have been providing therapy since 2005, primarily working with children, adolescents, parents, families, and couples. I specialize in helping children, teens, and young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and attention difficulties as well as assisting parents with skills to help their children develop emotionally, academically, and socially. My passion is to help all ages learn effective coping strategies to manage challenges related to focus, anxiety, depre...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Parenting issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 25

Hello, my name is Paisley Pijuan. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in California. I have over 25 years of experience. I graduated from UCLA with a Masters in Social Work. I have worked in a variety of settings with children, adolescents and families in hospitals, schools and with the courts as a child custody mediator. I have extensive experience working with individuals with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting concerns, communication issues, blended families, cultural and identity struggles,...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Parenting issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 9

Dr. Huerta earned her Master's and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology, Southern California. Dr. Huerta has worked with populations of different ages including children, adolescents and adults. Most of her clinical work has consisted of working with clients who have a history of trauma, in correctional / forensic settings. She utilizes a holistic approach that includes the role that neuro-psychology has on our emotions. In addition to utilizing evidence-based she has spent several years working with people seeking s...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 31

Hello, I'm Judith! I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California, and I’ve been helping people create happier lives for themselves in my own private practice for the last 29 years. I believe in my clients, and I listen to them deeply. As I listen, I begin to understand them. I hear their unique resources and inner strengths. Almost always, however, I also hear repetitive negative patterns that trap them in negative stories about themselves, instead! I empathize with their pain. Together, we carefully unpack the negative patterns and s...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Depression, Coaching
Years of Experience: 23

23 plus years experience in the mental health field providing therapy and trained in evidence based practices. My approach is integrating components of different types of modalities. Therapy does not have to be daunting. Let's blaze a trail to new pathways of coping, self discovery and mastery. Let us have a conversation and work together to come up with practical and applicable approaches to your everyday life challenges.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Grief, Career difficulties, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 3

I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, & 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!

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Parenting issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 20

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting 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. 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, Trauma and abuse, Grief, 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, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with depression. 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, 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....

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Depression
Years of Experience: 18

I have worked with families and children for 18 years. I work with children from 3 years old to 22 years old in educational settings stuggling with social skills in educational settings. My specialized area is in high functioning autism and coping skills. I work with adults that have a difficult time with coping skills and anger management. Areas of a high anxiety, depression and grieving issues are areas of expertise as well. I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxi...

Specialties: Addictions, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Intimacy-related issues
Years of Experience: 10

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients cope with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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 ask for and seek help is a courageous one, and I recognize you for this.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Parenting issues, Anger management, Self esteem
Years of Experience: 23

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified EMDR Therapist. My primary specialties are treating general and specific anxiety, panic attacks, low self-esteem, "imposter syndrome," anxiety which has led to depression, and confidence issues. I am also well versed in coaching, relationship dynamics, parenting, and family history complications. I am a very solution focused therapist with the notion of helping you achieve emotional wellness and happiness in your life as soon as possible. I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice at Shippensburg Universi...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Parenting issues, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 5

Hi, I’m Maggie! I’m an Expressive Arts Therapist. I work in the same way a typical therapist would work, exploring relationships, expressing emotions, working on social skills, discovering healthy coping skills, really any roadblock to being your very best self.  But in my practice, I also use the arts in our therapeutic journey.  This can include music, visual art, movement, magic, writing, and beyond.  My practice is truly client-centered.  Everyone has their own unique situation, and my goal is to tailor our work to your very personal needs.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Career difficulties, 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 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How To Find Counseling In Your Area

Finding the right therapist close by in Rancho Santa Margarita can feel intimidating. Once you narrow your search for a counselor near the Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Rancho Santa Margarita, 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 Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Rancho Santa Margarita area can be found below:

How Do Costs Of Conventional Counseling Compare To BetterHelp With A Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Rancho Santa Margarita: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists in Rancho Santa Margarita: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist in Rancho Santa Margarita: $100
  • Therapy with a mental health counselor in Rancho Santa Margarita: $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 Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Rancho Santa Margarita 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:

Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Rancho Santa Margarita, 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 Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Rancho Santa Margarita, 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 92679 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 Rancho Santa Margarita can be a great option.

How Should I Prepare For My First Session With A Rancho Santa Margarita 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For 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 Rancho Santa Margarita area, including:

  • CBT in Rancho Santa Margarita
  • DBT in Rancho Santa Margarita
  • Substance use therapy in Rancho Santa Margarita
  • Couples therapy in Rancho Santa Margarita

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

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

92679, 92688

Popular Cities Near Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

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