Therapists in Lake Forest, CA
Christine M Lillja
Psychologist, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, CA 92630
Not accepting new clients
I am licensed as both a Marriage and Family Therapist and a Clinical Psychologist. I started practicing psychotherapy in 1993 and I love the work so much I have never done anything else. In today's world we don't take the time to listen and get to know each other. We start to suffer from depression and anxiety because we are so disconnected from each other and ourselves. I am trying to change that with one person at a time. I invite you to visit me and see how we can create a journey of healing together.
I am licensed as both a Marriage and Family Therapist and a Clinical Psychologist. I started practicing psychotherapy in 1993 and I love the work so much I have never done anything else. In today's world we don't take the time to listen and get to know each other. We start to suffer from depression and anxiety because we are so disconnected from each other and ourselves. I am trying to change that with one person at a time. I invite you to visit me and see how we can create a journey of healing together.
I have been committed to professionally helping others for over three decades and my path has led me to the exact place I want to be. I am a Psychoanalyst, Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist treating adults and couples. Our past very well may be influencing our current relationships, I will help you understand this individually and relationally. I am in the process of becoming certified in Relational Life Therapy which is incredibly helpful for couples. I am also trained in EMDR and IFS therapy for trauma. I practice in Puerto Rico and California. I offer tele-health and in-person sessions.
I have been committed to professionally helping others for over three decades and my path has led me to the exact place I want to be. I am a Psychoanalyst, Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist treating adults and couples. Our past very well may be influencing our current relationships, I will help you understand this individually and relationally. I am in the process of becoming certified in Relational Life Therapy which is incredibly helpful for couples. I am also trained in EMDR and IFS therapy for trauma. I practice in Puerto Rico and California. I offer tele-health and in-person sessions.
Stacy J Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lake Forest, CA 92630
Do you find yourself grappling with the heavy burden of depression or anxiety? Are relationship or parenting challenges leaving you feeling angry, disconnected and alone? Are you drained and on the brink of burnout or compassion fatigue? Often, our challenges seem overwhelming, and we may feel stuck or powerless to change. You do not have to face life’s challenges alone. In therapy, we will work collaboratively to help understand how your personal life experiences have shaped your perspectives, discover your values and develop your inner strengths. We’ll use powerful tools to address your unique challenges and achieve your goals.
Do you find yourself grappling with the heavy burden of depression or anxiety? Are relationship or parenting challenges leaving you feeling angry, disconnected and alone? Are you drained and on the brink of burnout or compassion fatigue? Often, our challenges seem overwhelming, and we may feel stuck or powerless to change. You do not have to face life’s challenges alone. In therapy, we will work collaboratively to help understand how your personal life experiences have shaped your perspectives, discover your values and develop your inner strengths. We’ll use powerful tools to address your unique challenges and achieve your goals.
Lauren Deliberato
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, CA 92630
Not accepting new clients
I work with clients struggling with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, difficulty adjusting to life changes and stress, and grief and loss. I also have a special interest and training in working with women with perinatal and postpartum anxiety and depression, as well as the many challenges and changes women experience transitioning into motherhood.
I work with clients struggling with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, difficulty adjusting to life changes and stress, and grief and loss. I also have a special interest and training in working with women with perinatal and postpartum anxiety and depression, as well as the many challenges and changes women experience transitioning into motherhood.
Hello, my name is Ruby Nieto Padilla. I am a Spanish-speaking, Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I have over 10 years of experience with the Latino population and in, particular, in the San Gabriel Valley area. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults/parents, and families that have difficulty maintaining and balancing healthy, loving relationships. Using a positive problem-solving approach and client-centered techniques, I help clients identify the source of their difficulties and assist them in developing effective strategies for change.
Hello, my name is Ruby Nieto Padilla. I am a Spanish-speaking, Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I have over 10 years of experience with the Latino population and in, particular, in the San Gabriel Valley area. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults/parents, and families that have difficulty maintaining and balancing healthy, loving relationships. Using a positive problem-solving approach and client-centered techniques, I help clients identify the source of their difficulties and assist them in developing effective strategies for change.
My name is Rana Choi Yamamura and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am looking forward to partnering with and supporting you if you are feeling overwhelmed and stressed with life's changes and transitions. I specialize in the areas of stress; anxiety; life transitions; chronic illness; caregiver stress; grief/loss; and women's issues including perinatal and postpartum. My approach is to meet you where you are and create a compassionate and caring space that is comfortable and non-judgmental. I look forward to accompanying you on this path of change and growth.
My name is Rana Choi Yamamura and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am looking forward to partnering with and supporting you if you are feeling overwhelmed and stressed with life's changes and transitions. I specialize in the areas of stress; anxiety; life transitions; chronic illness; caregiver stress; grief/loss; and women's issues including perinatal and postpartum. My approach is to meet you where you are and create a compassionate and caring space that is comfortable and non-judgmental. I look forward to accompanying you on this path of change and growth.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who loves providing a kind and supportive environment for my clients. I received my Master’s in Social Work in May of 2018 from the University of Southern California and have a Bachelors degree in gender studies from UCLA. I currently work as a program director for adolescents at an intensive outpatient program in Lake Forest, CA and am excited to grow my private practice. I can see client's in person in south Orange County or virtually. My passion for working with youth and young adults began as a childcare provider in my undergraduate career.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who loves providing a kind and supportive environment for my clients. I received my Master’s in Social Work in May of 2018 from the University of Southern California and have a Bachelors degree in gender studies from UCLA. I currently work as a program director for adolescents at an intensive outpatient program in Lake Forest, CA and am excited to grow my private practice. I can see client's in person in south Orange County or virtually. My passion for working with youth and young adults began as a childcare provider in my undergraduate career.
Theresa Ann Steiner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS/MFCT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, CA 92630
Over the years, I have found that people have an innate sense of resiliency that they can tap into, but need guidance to find it. During the therapeutic process, I strive to nurture this sense as my clients grow, heal, cultivate creativity and thrive in life’s many journeys. We all need to feel connected and heard, and we each deserve a therapist that is truly interested in us and has our best interests at heart. I truly believe this is an essential component of therapy. It takes courage to ask for help and I applaud you for taking the first step.
Over the years, I have found that people have an innate sense of resiliency that they can tap into, but need guidance to find it. During the therapeutic process, I strive to nurture this sense as my clients grow, heal, cultivate creativity and thrive in life’s many journeys. We all need to feel connected and heard, and we each deserve a therapist that is truly interested in us and has our best interests at heart. I truly believe this is an essential component of therapy. It takes courage to ask for help and I applaud you for taking the first step.
Hello! My name is Cherrelle Brown and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I work with individuals ages 13+ and couples looking for a safe therapeutic space to search for their sense of purpose. My areas of focus include coping skills, depression, peer relationships, stress, anxiety, trauma & PTSD, and grief, amongst others. My theoretical approach is cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused.
Hello! My name is Cherrelle Brown and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I work with individuals ages 13+ and couples looking for a safe therapeutic space to search for their sense of purpose. My areas of focus include coping skills, depression, peer relationships, stress, anxiety, trauma & PTSD, and grief, amongst others. My theoretical approach is cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused.
Katlyn Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Forest, CA 92630 (Online Only)
All of my sessions are being conducted virtually at this time... Life is challenging and it can be difficult trying to navigate the ups and downs of life without support. It can feel overwhelming and hopeless especially when you, your child and/or family is struggling. You are not alone. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I provide a safe place for teens, families, and individuals to work through all of the emotions experienced through out life's challenges.
All of my sessions are being conducted virtually at this time... Life is challenging and it can be difficult trying to navigate the ups and downs of life without support. It can feel overwhelming and hopeless especially when you, your child and/or family is struggling. You are not alone. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I provide a safe place for teens, families, and individuals to work through all of the emotions experienced through out life's challenges.
Paula Bishop
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, CA 92630 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Paula Bishop, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples, families, and children. I have helped folks transform their thoughts and feelings into constructive forms of action. I work with clients (children, adults) with mild anxiety from outside pressure such as school, work, family, etc. I've always had the ability to empathize with folks struggling with the daily work grind. I've also struggled with workplace anxiety and can relate to those who experience workplace issues.
Hi! I'm Paula Bishop, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples, families, and children. I have helped folks transform their thoughts and feelings into constructive forms of action. I work with clients (children, adults) with mild anxiety from outside pressure such as school, work, family, etc. I've always had the ability to empathize with folks struggling with the daily work grind. I've also struggled with workplace anxiety and can relate to those who experience workplace issues.
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Do you desire a meaningful relationship with yourself and others? Are life challenges impacting your quality of life? If so, you are not alone and therapy can provide you with the guidance and support needed to move toward mental, physical, and emotional balance for a healthier more successful life. I believe creating a strong therapeutic relationship is of paramount importance in the process of change and a key ingredient towards your progress in therapy. While being supportive, I’ll also challenge you to acknowledge and confront unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviors that are interfering with your personal goals.
Do you desire a meaningful relationship with yourself and others? Are life challenges impacting your quality of life? If so, you are not alone and therapy can provide you with the guidance and support needed to move toward mental, physical, and emotional balance for a healthier more successful life. I believe creating a strong therapeutic relationship is of paramount importance in the process of change and a key ingredient towards your progress in therapy. While being supportive, I’ll also challenge you to acknowledge and confront unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviors that are interfering with your personal goals.
Clare Ceman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, CA 92630 (Online Only)
What is the best part about being a therapist? It is when you build a meaningful relationship with someone and are able to watch them take steps towards living a more fulfilled life. I believe that the desire to grow and learn about oneself is the first step towards achieving this. Whether your goal is to improve a relationship, decrease anxiety, or strengthen skills for building self-awareness, I believe you can meet your goals with the proper support and motivation. I work from the person-centered approach which supports the belief that you are NOT defined by the challenges you experience.
What is the best part about being a therapist? It is when you build a meaningful relationship with someone and are able to watch them take steps towards living a more fulfilled life. I believe that the desire to grow and learn about oneself is the first step towards achieving this. Whether your goal is to improve a relationship, decrease anxiety, or strengthen skills for building self-awareness, I believe you can meet your goals with the proper support and motivation. I work from the person-centered approach which supports the belief that you are NOT defined by the challenges you experience.
Thank you for visiting our profile page. You are searching, not just for someone who can assist you with the issue you are struggling with, but someone you can connect with; someone who can truly understand you. The best way to find that person is to interview them on the phone. Credentials are only the starting place for a therapy relationship. Keep in mind you are choosing somebody with whom you can share pretty much everything about you; perhaps things you've never told any other person. Make sure you pick somebody you like & trust.
Thank you for visiting our profile page. You are searching, not just for someone who can assist you with the issue you are struggling with, but someone you can connect with; someone who can truly understand you. The best way to find that person is to interview them on the phone. Credentials are only the starting place for a therapy relationship. Keep in mind you are choosing somebody with whom you can share pretty much everything about you; perhaps things you've never told any other person. Make sure you pick somebody you like & trust.
Where healing begins...With an empathic heart and open mind, I will listen and assist you in your life's journey.
Through collaboration and integration, I work with clients who are motivated for change in their lives. I have experience in the realms of depression, anxiety and PTSD. I also have experience working with cultural identity issues within the family and relationships.
Where healing begins...With an empathic heart and open mind, I will listen and assist you in your life's journey.
Through collaboration and integration, I work with clients who are motivated for change in their lives. I have experience in the realms of depression, anxiety and PTSD. I also have experience working with cultural identity issues within the family and relationships.
Megan Poupard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, CA 92630 (Online Only)
How much of your life has been lived completely in your head? Would it be days, weeks... even years? Add up all those times you spent Googling your symptoms or seeking answers on Reddit. Count the minutes spent analyzing your body in the mirror, stepping on the scale, or counting calories. Remember all the moments when your thoughts felt so loud that they drowned out everything from the present. Maybe it all seems so trivial looking back now. When all is said and done, wouldn't you give anything to have that time back? Do you want to be saying the same in 5 years from now?
How much of your life has been lived completely in your head? Would it be days, weeks... even years? Add up all those times you spent Googling your symptoms or seeking answers on Reddit. Count the minutes spent analyzing your body in the mirror, stepping on the scale, or counting calories. Remember all the moments when your thoughts felt so loud that they drowned out everything from the present. Maybe it all seems so trivial looking back now. When all is said and done, wouldn't you give anything to have that time back? Do you want to be saying the same in 5 years from now?
It is important that my patients feel respected and encouraged. My job is to really listen and help you feel understood. I also think my role is to give you lots of feedback and not just be a passive listener saying, "uh, uh, hmm, I see, hmm". I am a coach, cheerleader, teacher, confidante, and accountability partner. The biggest complaint I have heard over the years about any past therapists whom patients felt were not helpful was the complaint that the past therapist was way too passive. I work best with those that want a therapist high in empathy but is not passive.
It is important that my patients feel respected and encouraged. My job is to really listen and help you feel understood. I also think my role is to give you lots of feedback and not just be a passive listener saying, "uh, uh, hmm, I see, hmm". I am a coach, cheerleader, teacher, confidante, and accountability partner. The biggest complaint I have heard over the years about any past therapists whom patients felt were not helpful was the complaint that the past therapist was way too passive. I work best with those that want a therapist high in empathy but is not passive.
We all deserve to experience joy, have a voice and discover our most authentic selves. I want to support you in learning how to hone your strengths and leverage your power to feel fulfilled in your life journey. Whether you are experiencing a life transition, had an “aha” moment, want insight to a pattern, or whether someone is encouraging you to seek support; we will spend time exploring your unique circumstances and possible solutions to alleviate your distress. I believe in our need to be connected, loved and to feel whole and that the absence of these feelings can be the basis for some of our struggles and suffering.
We all deserve to experience joy, have a voice and discover our most authentic selves. I want to support you in learning how to hone your strengths and leverage your power to feel fulfilled in your life journey. Whether you are experiencing a life transition, had an “aha” moment, want insight to a pattern, or whether someone is encouraging you to seek support; we will spend time exploring your unique circumstances and possible solutions to alleviate your distress. I believe in our need to be connected, loved and to feel whole and that the absence of these feelings can be the basis for some of our struggles and suffering.
Whether you are struggling with depression, suffering with anxiety or panic attacks, wresting with your marriage, coping with divorce, dealing with an illness or death, or living with a history of sexual abuse or assault, I can help you work on those issues. With over 22 years of experience, I have helped many people improve their lives. Find your solutions and start feeling better today!
Whether you are struggling with depression, suffering with anxiety or panic attacks, wresting with your marriage, coping with divorce, dealing with an illness or death, or living with a history of sexual abuse or assault, I can help you work on those issues. With over 22 years of experience, I have helped many people improve their lives. Find your solutions and start feeling better today!
Max Gezerseh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, CA 92630
Based on personal belief and experience and coming from a Humanistic Existential theoretical perspective I believe in the great innate potential every individual has and the helper's role as a facilitator or coach to assist the individual to discover and to utilize such strength to live up to one's highest potential. My practice areas include: Substance Abuse (adults & adolescents), Grief Counseling, Marital & Premarital Counseling, Adolescent Misbehavior, Anger-Management, Domestic Violence, Depression, Anxiety, and Stage of Life. I am experienced to work with challenging behavioral problems like borderline personality disorder and adolescents' substance abuse or misbehavior.
Based on personal belief and experience and coming from a Humanistic Existential theoretical perspective I believe in the great innate potential every individual has and the helper's role as a facilitator or coach to assist the individual to discover and to utilize such strength to live up to one's highest potential. My practice areas include: Substance Abuse (adults & adolescents), Grief Counseling, Marital & Premarital Counseling, Adolescent Misbehavior, Anger-Management, Domestic Violence, Depression, Anxiety, and Stage of Life. I am experienced to work with challenging behavioral problems like borderline personality disorder and adolescents' substance abuse or misbehavior.
See more therapy options for Lake Forest
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Lake Forest, CA
100+
Average cost per session
$162
Therapists in Lake Forest, CA who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
84% | Relationship Issues |
80% | Self Esteem |
75% | Coping Skills |
68% | Grief |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
76% | Cigna and Evernorth |
65% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
63% | Optum |
How Therapists in Lake Forest, CA see their clients
76% | In Person and Online | |
24% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
21% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Lake Forest?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.