Photo of Lauren Armstrong - OC Teen Center- Adolescent and Teen Mental Health, PsyD, Psychologist
OC Teen Center- Adolescent and Teen Mental Health
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
If your child has depression, anxiety, self harm, suicidal ideation, or trans/identity issues please call us.
Dr. Lauren Armstrong is a highly passionate licensed clinical psychologist and Clinical Director with a PsyD from Pepperdine University, and has been working with children and adolescents for the past ten years. She is an expert in working with challenging psychological presentations such as trauma, self harm, mood changes, aggression, and other unsafe or maladaptive coping mechanisms. Dr. Lauren always believes in her patients, even when everyone else has stopped believing in them. She never loses hope, and tirelessly works with patients and their families on improving their relationships, coping skills, and positive change.
If your child has depression, anxiety, self harm, suicidal ideation, or trans/identity issues please call us.
Dr. Lauren Armstrong is a highly passionate licensed clinical psychologist and Clinical Director with a PsyD from Pepperdine University, and has been working with children and adolescents for the past ten years. She is an expert in working with challenging psychological presentations such as trauma, self harm, mood changes, aggression, and other unsafe or maladaptive coping mechanisms. Dr. Lauren always believes in her patients, even when everyone else has stopped believing in them. She never loses hope, and tirelessly works with patients and their families on improving their relationships, coping skills, and positive change.
(714) 646-1580 View (714) 646-1580
Photo of Kyle Jones, PhD, Psychologist
Kyle Jones
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92628  (Online Only)
It’s a joy for me to help my patients face their fears, crush their anxiety and avoidance, and tackle bad habits.
Feeling optimism and happiness is totally possible. So is having close and connected relationships with loves ones. You can be free of bad habits and say goodbye to crippling fear and anxiety. It will take effort and dedication. Sometimes you’ll have to face some discomfort or take emotional risks, but I firmly believe that achieving these kinds of goals is well within your grasp. As we work together we'll calibrate the approach that works best for you, measure your symptoms, and track your progress so you can get the outcomes you want from therapy.
It’s a joy for me to help my patients face their fears, crush their anxiety and avoidance, and tackle bad habits.
Feeling optimism and happiness is totally possible. So is having close and connected relationships with loves ones. You can be free of bad habits and say goodbye to crippling fear and anxiety. It will take effort and dedication. Sometimes you’ll have to face some discomfort or take emotional risks, but I firmly believe that achieving these kinds of goals is well within your grasp. As we work together we'll calibrate the approach that works best for you, measure your symptoms, and track your progress so you can get the outcomes you want from therapy.
(657) 363-3200 View (657) 363-3200
Photo of Shirin Shenasi Azari, PsyD, Psychologist
Shirin Shenasi Azari
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
I see individuals with a broad area of clinical issues, including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, trauma, relationship, and self-esteem issues.
Do you want a more healthy, productive and satisfying life? Sometimes, people may feel overwhelmed by what is happening in their lives and need help sorting out their feelings, finding solutions to their problems, or just feeling better. I can help by providing a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic experience. I strive to help people to find a new perspective on their problems and provide tools to help them change old patterns so they can increase the joy and peace in their lives.
I see individuals with a broad area of clinical issues, including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, trauma, relationship, and self-esteem issues.
Do you want a more healthy, productive and satisfying life? Sometimes, people may feel overwhelmed by what is happening in their lives and need help sorting out their feelings, finding solutions to their problems, or just feeling better. I can help by providing a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic experience. I strive to help people to find a new perspective on their problems and provide tools to help them change old patterns so they can increase the joy and peace in their lives.
(949) 536-7368 View (949) 536-7368
Photo of Tara L. Myers, MS, LPCC, DBT-LBC, Counselor
Tara L. Myers
Counselor, MS, LPCC, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Are you struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, difficulty managing emotions, issues related to past trauma or difficulties interacting with loved ones? My approach is to combine evidence based treatment with warmth and compassion. I specialize in working with adults struggling with anxiety, addiction, mood, anxiety and personality disorders, as well as trauma related issues, typically associated with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I also specialize in treating adolescents with difficulty managing emotion often resulting in self-injury, eating disorders, substance abuse, suicide, as well as PTSD. .
Are you struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, difficulty managing emotions, issues related to past trauma or difficulties interacting with loved ones? My approach is to combine evidence based treatment with warmth and compassion. I specialize in working with adults struggling with anxiety, addiction, mood, anxiety and personality disorders, as well as trauma related issues, typically associated with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I also specialize in treating adolescents with difficulty managing emotion often resulting in self-injury, eating disorders, substance abuse, suicide, as well as PTSD. .
(310) 879-1344 View (310) 879-1344
Photo of John L. Avitabile, LMFT, MBA, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
John L. Avitabile
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MBA, MA
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Each individual experiences life's journey in a personally unique manner while weaving the tapestry of lived experience into a meaningful and beautiful pattern reflecting their journey. As most of us have discovered, however, sometimes the actual experience can be fraught with anxiety, depression, anger, regret and disappointment. As a therapist, I use my education and life experience to help clients reconnect with their hopes, dreams, personal and professional goals using their undiscovered strengths and natural resilience. We will work together to find practical strategies to make life energizing, meaningful and rewarding again.
Each individual experiences life's journey in a personally unique manner while weaving the tapestry of lived experience into a meaningful and beautiful pattern reflecting their journey. As most of us have discovered, however, sometimes the actual experience can be fraught with anxiety, depression, anger, regret and disappointment. As a therapist, I use my education and life experience to help clients reconnect with their hopes, dreams, personal and professional goals using their undiscovered strengths and natural resilience. We will work together to find practical strategies to make life energizing, meaningful and rewarding again.
(949) 531-7844 View (949) 531-7844
Photo of Sandra Slater, PsyD, Psychologist
Sandra Slater
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
As a Clinical Psychologist, I have worked with individuals from all walks of life. I have learned that respect and compassion are the cornerstones of successful therapy and I strive to bring these components to every encounter with my clients. I have vast experience treating depressive disorders, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and women's issues among others. As a veteran and prior active-duty provider, I am well versed in issues pertaining to military life including PTSD, adjustment disorders and stress related to PCS, retirement and separation.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I have worked with individuals from all walks of life. I have learned that respect and compassion are the cornerstones of successful therapy and I strive to bring these components to every encounter with my clients. I have vast experience treating depressive disorders, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and women's issues among others. As a veteran and prior active-duty provider, I am well versed in issues pertaining to military life including PTSD, adjustment disorders and stress related to PCS, retirement and separation.
(310) 774-0472 View (310) 774-0472
Photo of David Whitsett, PsyD, Psychologist
David Whitsett
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Not accepting new clients
Life can be really hard sometimes, whether you are a college student feeling overwhelmed or a parent watching a child struggle. If you or your child/adolescent is regularly experiencing overwhelming feelings of worry, anxiety, panic, sadness (or all of the above!) and feel stuck in them, I can help. I specialize in therapy that brings an enduring sense of calm and confidence, frees us to focus on what really matters in life, and is grounded in the latest science. I am often described as a supportive, warm, and relatable clinician who gives freedom for authenticity, humor and exploration.
Life can be really hard sometimes, whether you are a college student feeling overwhelmed or a parent watching a child struggle. If you or your child/adolescent is regularly experiencing overwhelming feelings of worry, anxiety, panic, sadness (or all of the above!) and feel stuck in them, I can help. I specialize in therapy that brings an enduring sense of calm and confidence, frees us to focus on what really matters in life, and is grounded in the latest science. I am often described as a supportive, warm, and relatable clinician who gives freedom for authenticity, humor and exploration.
(949) 519-4328 View (949) 519-4328
Photo of Dena Horne, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dena Horne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
My name is Dena Horne and I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I strive to honor the individuality, diversity, and complexity of each client to cultivate meaningful growth, resilience, and healing. I work as a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist; however, sessions are tailored to each individual client. I often work with adults experiencing PTSD, trauma, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, depression, and substance use. During our time together, you can expect a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental environment.
My name is Dena Horne and I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I strive to honor the individuality, diversity, and complexity of each client to cultivate meaningful growth, resilience, and healing. I work as a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist; however, sessions are tailored to each individual client. I often work with adults experiencing PTSD, trauma, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, depression, and substance use. During our time together, you can expect a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental environment.
(747) 285-7959 View (747) 285-7959
Photo of Vicki McDonald, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vicki McDonald
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Welcome. I am here to help you heal and grow in a safe, non judgmental environment. I work with people who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Trauma. I practice using personalized and evidence-based approaches. My unique style includes elements from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I have advanced training from the Beck Institute for CBT as well as advanced certifications from the EMDR International Association.
Welcome. I am here to help you heal and grow in a safe, non judgmental environment. I work with people who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Trauma. I practice using personalized and evidence-based approaches. My unique style includes elements from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I have advanced training from the Beck Institute for CBT as well as advanced certifications from the EMDR International Association.
(949) 710-5771 View (949) 710-5771
Photo of Hayley Pedersen - The Child and Family Connection, MS, PsyD, Psychologist
The Child and Family Connection
Psychologist, MS, PsyD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Whether you are a parent seeking support for disruptive behaviors in your young child, observing signs of anxiety in your adolescent, or recently experienced a change in your family system, We are here to help you understand your child's overall functioning, and offer accessible solutions for the entire family.
At the Child and Family Connection, we believe that all children want to do well. Children, like anyone, are limited by the skills and tools available to them. This principal guides our work with children and families to identify the underlying cause through multi-modality approaches and bring out the best for both the child and caregiver. Our skilled, licensed mental health professionals have the experience, training, and education to help with each child's individualized psychological, behavioral, and educational needs.
Whether you are a parent seeking support for disruptive behaviors in your young child, observing signs of anxiety in your adolescent, or recently experienced a change in your family system, We are here to help you understand your child's overall functioning, and offer accessible solutions for the entire family.
At the Child and Family Connection, we believe that all children want to do well. Children, like anyone, are limited by the skills and tools available to them. This principal guides our work with children and families to identify the underlying cause through multi-modality approaches and bring out the best for both the child and caregiver. Our skilled, licensed mental health professionals have the experience, training, and education to help with each child's individualized psychological, behavioral, and educational needs.
(949) 541-0304 View (949) 541-0304
Photo of Lara Barbir, PsyD, Psychologist
Lara Barbir
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
The people in your life see this strong and positive side of you, but on the inside you're feeling lost, confused, isolated, and like you don't know how much longer you can keep up this façade before the suffering starts to leak out and you lose complete control. Most clients with whom I work are struggling with depression, anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain and disability, general stress, and/or trauma/PTSD, problems which often come to the forefront following recent relational, work, and life stressors. I'm here to help you find your truth and commit to the meaningful journey of reaching your most empowered and authentic self.
The people in your life see this strong and positive side of you, but on the inside you're feeling lost, confused, isolated, and like you don't know how much longer you can keep up this façade before the suffering starts to leak out and you lose complete control. Most clients with whom I work are struggling with depression, anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain and disability, general stress, and/or trauma/PTSD, problems which often come to the forefront following recent relational, work, and life stressors. I'm here to help you find your truth and commit to the meaningful journey of reaching your most empowered and authentic self.
(949) 208-7334 View (949) 208-7334
Photo of Natalie Collins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
I thoroughly enjoy my work as a therapist and witnessing the courage and resilience within each of my clients that guides positive change.
I thoroughly enjoy my work as a therapist and witnessing the courage and resilience within each of my clients that guides positive change.
(415) 996-1829 View (415) 996-1829
Photo of Oscar Oo - Logical Behavioral Health, PsyD, PhD, ABPP, LMFT, Psychologist
Logical Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD, ABPP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Logical Behavioral Health providers are professionals who understand and prioritize your care above all else. We believe that in certain cases, good care even means providing a referral to someone outside of our office if our providers are not the best fit for your behavioral health care needs. The overall course of treatment will ultimately utilize a collaborative approach in helping you achieve mutually formulated treatment goals to reduce symptoms and improve functioning. If you believe that you need a referral to a psychiatrist or other health care professional, we have the resources to provide you with an appropriate referral.
Logical Behavioral Health providers are professionals who understand and prioritize your care above all else. We believe that in certain cases, good care even means providing a referral to someone outside of our office if our providers are not the best fit for your behavioral health care needs. The overall course of treatment will ultimately utilize a collaborative approach in helping you achieve mutually formulated treatment goals to reduce symptoms and improve functioning. If you believe that you need a referral to a psychiatrist or other health care professional, we have the resources to provide you with an appropriate referral.
(949) 536-8892 View (949) 536-8892
Photo of Alison Lynn Johnson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alison Lynn Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
(714) 654-1570 View (714) 654-1570
Photo of Courtney Westin, LMFT, CEDS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Courtney Westin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I know that having an eating disorder is not easy and often misunderstood by friends and family. I want to help you work towards changing your attitude towards food and thoughts about your body by working with you to create and maintain a full and worthwhile life. I can help you improve and feel better by practicing evidence based therapies, such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). You don't have to do it alone. I want to help you address your problems and create new, effective solutions.
I know that having an eating disorder is not easy and often misunderstood by friends and family. I want to help you work towards changing your attitude towards food and thoughts about your body by working with you to create and maintain a full and worthwhile life. I can help you improve and feel better by practicing evidence based therapies, such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). You don't have to do it alone. I want to help you address your problems and create new, effective solutions.
(949) 383-4613 View (949) 383-4613
Photo of Dr. Stefanie Tweedly, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Stefanie Tweedly
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
While I specialize in treatment of trauma/PTSD, substance use disorders, active duty and retired military, and first responders, I am comfortable treating a wide range of presenting problems experienced by adolescents and adults from diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, and religions. Base on your needs, I integrate a variety of approaches to therapy, including Emotion-Focused Therapy due to its focus emotional healing and its warm, supportive stance. In addition to more traditional approaches to therapy, I integrate holistic practices, such as yoga and meditation.
While I specialize in treatment of trauma/PTSD, substance use disorders, active duty and retired military, and first responders, I am comfortable treating a wide range of presenting problems experienced by adolescents and adults from diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, and religions. Base on your needs, I integrate a variety of approaches to therapy, including Emotion-Focused Therapy due to its focus emotional healing and its warm, supportive stance. In addition to more traditional approaches to therapy, I integrate holistic practices, such as yoga and meditation.
(949) 577-8296 View (949) 577-8296

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Curtis Hsia - Orange County Anxiety Center, PhD, Psychologist
Orange County Anxiety Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
We specialize in anxiety and related disorders: panic disorder, worry, phobias and social fears.
Anxiety, panic, fear, and OCD have answers. You can take control. Patients average a 15-week treatment under our specialists. We also offer 6 to 8 day intensive formats. We use empirically supported treatments tailored to each individual, including home visits and practicing skills outside of the office setting. Our pride is in our success rate.
We specialize in anxiety and related disorders: panic disorder, worry, phobias and social fears.
Anxiety, panic, fear, and OCD have answers. You can take control. Patients average a 15-week treatment under our specialists. We also offer 6 to 8 day intensive formats. We use empirically supported treatments tailored to each individual, including home visits and practicing skills outside of the office setting. Our pride is in our success rate.
(949) 558-2610 View (949) 558-2610
Photo of Mojdeh Amani - Talk Therapy Mental Health Inc., LMFT, MA, BA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Talk Therapy Mental Health Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
My approach is client-centered. I help clients who suffer from depression, anxiety and other issues. I have specialty training and numerous certificates in various modalities. I believe people who suffer from depression are dealing with grief and focus treatment accordingly.
My approach is client-centered. I help clients who suffer from depression, anxiety and other issues. I have specialty training and numerous certificates in various modalities. I believe people who suffer from depression are dealing with grief and focus treatment accordingly.
(562) 210-0385 View (562) 210-0385
Photo of Seda Terzyan - Dr Seda Terzyan, PhD Perspectives Psychological, PhD, Psychologist
Dr Seda Terzyan, PhD Perspectives Psychological
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I am specialized in child and adult neuropsychological testing and the treatment of anxiety and trauma-related disorders.
As founder and director of Perspectives Psychological Services, a team practice, I emphasize providing all clients with precise initial assessments to clarify their needs and specific diagnoses. My treatment style is built upon the assumption that you are the expert on you! Therefore, I focus on creating a collaborative, trusting and supportive environment, where we work together to tailor an intervention for your specific needs and strengths.
I am specialized in child and adult neuropsychological testing and the treatment of anxiety and trauma-related disorders.
As founder and director of Perspectives Psychological Services, a team practice, I emphasize providing all clients with precise initial assessments to clarify their needs and specific diagnoses. My treatment style is built upon the assumption that you are the expert on you! Therefore, I focus on creating a collaborative, trusting and supportive environment, where we work together to tailor an intervention for your specific needs and strengths.
(949) 523-3650 View (949) 523-3650
Photo of John S Huang, PhD, Psychologist
John S Huang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
My clients are typically looking to resolve issues related to anxiety, stress, trauma, insomnia, depression, or relationship issues. Some clients also work on spiritual searching and exploring meaning in life. Sessions can focus on finding one’s purpose. Working with me often involves finding joy and humor again in life. Clients also learn practical skills they take with them, such as meditation and relaxation techniques, and ways of managing the mind’s scattered distractions and critical, negative thoughts. I can also teach physical meditative movements.
My clients are typically looking to resolve issues related to anxiety, stress, trauma, insomnia, depression, or relationship issues. Some clients also work on spiritual searching and exploring meaning in life. Sessions can focus on finding one’s purpose. Working with me often involves finding joy and humor again in life. Clients also learn practical skills they take with them, such as meditation and relaxation techniques, and ways of managing the mind’s scattered distractions and critical, negative thoughts. I can also teach physical meditative movements.
(949) 565-4270 View (949) 565-4270
Anxiety Therapists

What are the most common treatments for anxiety?

Talk therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, is the most common treatment for anxiety. Studies have shown it is equally effective as medication. Other popular forms of therapy are popular, depending on a patient’s experience. Exposure therapy, for instance, can be useful for people dealing with fears and phobias, or who have experienced traumatic events. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy may be useful for patients who need help with emotion regulation. Anxiolytic medications, like benzodiazepines, can also help with calming a person enough to focus on the skills they’ve learned, and physical exercise has been shown to help symptoms of anxiety across the board.

How long does therapy for anxiety take to work?

The amount of time needed to alleviate symptoms depends on the severity of a person’s condition. Some therapies may take 5-20 weekly sessions to show results. Anti-depressant medications typically take two to four weeks before a benefit is felt. Anti-anxiety medications are felt typically within 20-30 minutes. Medications are best used to offer a patient a better headspace in which to work on techniques learned in therapy. Exercise, improved sleep habits, and meditation are effective, but takes weeks or months to show results.

When should I seek treatment for anxiety?

Everyone feels anxious at times, but when anxiety causes disruption to your daily life, it may be time to seek help. Such disruption can be mental, physical, or both: having fear dominate your thoughts, avoiding situations or objects that bring on feelings of anxiety, or experiencing shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or panic attacks. When these symptoms are recurrent and distressing, it may be time to talk to someone.

How effective is treatment for anxiety?

Treatment for anxiety has been shown to be moderately to highly effective, according to a large body of psychology studies and analyses. For some people, treatment using CBT or exposure therapy alone is effective. Others respond best to a combination of medication and therapy.