Parenting Therapists in Dana Point, CA

Photo of Selena Rose Emond, PhD, BCBA-D
Selena Rose Emond
PhD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629
If you are having parenting challenges, behavior issues, a child with Autism or other developmental delays please contact me. I can help. We provide one on one services to children, parent training, school shadows, teacher in service talks. Our goal is to help your family go from good to great!
If you are having parenting challenges, behavior issues, a child with Autism or other developmental delays please contact me. I can help. We provide one on one services to children, parent training, school shadows, teacher in service talks. Our goal is to help your family go from good to great!
(714) 975-5821 View (714) 975-5821
Photo of Kathleen Mary Mates-Youngman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathleen Mary Mates-Youngman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629
Hello, I'm Kathleen Mates-Youngman, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Author, International Speaker, & Yoga Teacher. I specialize in Couples Therapy, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Parenting, & Life Transitions, and the author of best-selling, Couples Therapy Workbook, & Family Therapy Workbook. I am licensed in California and Texas, and offer in person as well as virtual sessions. I have been married for 38 years, and we are the parents of three children and four grandchildren. This life experience combined with my expertise allows me to connect with clients, and help them through challenges and to achieve their goals.
Hello, I'm Kathleen Mates-Youngman, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Author, International Speaker, & Yoga Teacher. I specialize in Couples Therapy, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Parenting, & Life Transitions, and the author of best-selling, Couples Therapy Workbook, & Family Therapy Workbook. I am licensed in California and Texas, and offer in person as well as virtual sessions. I have been married for 38 years, and we are the parents of three children and four grandchildren. This life experience combined with my expertise allows me to connect with clients, and help them through challenges and to achieve their goals.
(949) 832-1354 View (949) 832-1354
Photo of Gemma C. Quick, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gemma C. Quick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dana Point, CA 92629  (Online Only)
I have special interests/training in mindfulness, yoga, self-compassion, holistic health, vulnerability, parenting and early childhood development.
We all have many layers of past experience that affect our present feelings, self-worth and relationships. Therapy is a unique experience where we can explore these connections, develop greater self-awareness and make meaningful changes. I work closely with my clients to help them develop more self-agency and compassion, so that they can address their current circumstances and move forward with a greater sense of meaning, clarity and purpose. I have a genuine interest in how people have developed their personal and relational patterns and I look forward to hearing your story and helping you make positive changes in your life.
I have special interests/training in mindfulness, yoga, self-compassion, holistic health, vulnerability, parenting and early childhood development.
We all have many layers of past experience that affect our present feelings, self-worth and relationships. Therapy is a unique experience where we can explore these connections, develop greater self-awareness and make meaningful changes. I work closely with my clients to help them develop more self-agency and compassion, so that they can address their current circumstances and move forward with a greater sense of meaning, clarity and purpose. I have a genuine interest in how people have developed their personal and relational patterns and I look forward to hearing your story and helping you make positive changes in your life.
(310) 736-2783 View (310) 736-2783
Photo of Ethan L Davis - Ethan Davis Counseling, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ethan Davis Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629
I focus on couple's issues, parenting and child issues, men's issues, anxiety, depression, working with teenagers and family dynamics.
Many times people feel they don't have anyone who truly understands them or anyone to show them the compassion they need. I am passionate about providing both understanding and compassion to all of my clients. I really want to hear your own story, understand the dynamics of your specific relationships and help you reach your personal goals and dreams. I've loved and cherished my family relationships, both while growing up, and now with my wife and children. I strive to provide a safe environment to share highs and lows and hopes and fears with clients as they too pursue those cherished relationships.
I focus on couple's issues, parenting and child issues, men's issues, anxiety, depression, working with teenagers and family dynamics.
Many times people feel they don't have anyone who truly understands them or anyone to show them the compassion they need. I am passionate about providing both understanding and compassion to all of my clients. I really want to hear your own story, understand the dynamics of your specific relationships and help you reach your personal goals and dreams. I've loved and cherished my family relationships, both while growing up, and now with my wife and children. I strive to provide a safe environment to share highs and lows and hopes and fears with clients as they too pursue those cherished relationships.
(916) 741-0884 View (916) 741-0884
Photo of Lindsay Vitale, PsyD, Psychologist
Lindsay Vitale
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629
Hi! Are you a concerned parent looking to find support for your child? Has your once happy child become withdrawn, irritable, or anxious? As a parent, I know that there is no worse feeling than watching your child struggle without the ability to fix the problem at hand. Please know that you don't have to face your current struggles alone. I have a deep commitment to working with youth and families. I have specialized training in adolescents, parenting, and trauma.
Hi! Are you a concerned parent looking to find support for your child? Has your once happy child become withdrawn, irritable, or anxious? As a parent, I know that there is no worse feeling than watching your child struggle without the ability to fix the problem at hand. Please know that you don't have to face your current struggles alone. I have a deep commitment to working with youth and families. I have specialized training in adolescents, parenting, and trauma.
(949) 844-5117 View (949) 844-5117
Photo of Jacqueline Lugo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacqueline Lugo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92624
For years, I have focused on supporting caregivers through their own experiences related to parenting a child with disabilities and/or medical complexities.
Life can be hard, change is hard, loss is hard...navigating the exhaustion of the day-to-day is HARD. It is a giant step to seek support; I am glad you found my page. Creating a warm, supportive, and authentic therapeutic space is super important to me as a therapist. I strive to help individuals struggling with life's challenges and transitions. My goal is to come along side you and support you as you process, learn, heal, and grow in a therapeutic setting so that you can gain coping skills to thrive in your day-to-day life. You deserve a space for yourself to feel heard and supported.
For years, I have focused on supporting caregivers through their own experiences related to parenting a child with disabilities and/or medical complexities.
Life can be hard, change is hard, loss is hard...navigating the exhaustion of the day-to-day is HARD. It is a giant step to seek support; I am glad you found my page. Creating a warm, supportive, and authentic therapeutic space is super important to me as a therapist. I strive to help individuals struggling with life's challenges and transitions. My goal is to come along side you and support you as you process, learn, heal, and grow in a therapeutic setting so that you can gain coping skills to thrive in your day-to-day life. You deserve a space for yourself to feel heard and supported.
(949) 353-6520 View (949) 353-6520
Photo of Julie A Davis, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Julie A Davis
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629
I have many years of Parenting experience, both personally and Professionally.
For the past 20 years, I have worked in Hospitals, Inpatient and Outpatient, Eating Disorder Clinics, a Women and Children's Domestic Violence Crisis Shelter, non-profit counseling centers for families and in an extremely challenging College setting with ages 17-65.In my private practice I see Individuals, couples, children and families. My experience working in numerous settings with people from diverse backgrounds with mild to severe mental health issues, has helped me develop a level of professional competence to help you and your family members with the highest level of care. Your well-being is my highest priority.
I have many years of Parenting experience, both personally and Professionally.
For the past 20 years, I have worked in Hospitals, Inpatient and Outpatient, Eating Disorder Clinics, a Women and Children's Domestic Violence Crisis Shelter, non-profit counseling centers for families and in an extremely challenging College setting with ages 17-65.In my private practice I see Individuals, couples, children and families. My experience working in numerous settings with people from diverse backgrounds with mild to severe mental health issues, has helped me develop a level of professional competence to help you and your family members with the highest level of care. Your well-being is my highest priority.
(949) 287-2871 View (949) 287-2871
Photo of Erica Curtis, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erica Curtis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dana Point, CA 92629
I am co-author of "The Innovative Parent: Raising Connected, Happy, Successful Kids through Art" and am a mother of three.
When life gets difficult, talk often isn't enough. With creative strategies, compassionate support, and cutting-edge tools, you can get past your past, feel more connected, and experience confidence, clarity, and joy. I am fascinated by the latest evidence on how we can bring about lasting change. I listen intently & share my thoughts. We'll get to the heart of the matter and connect the dots. Sure, we will talk. But we will do much more. Many find that talking to a therapist may produce some results, but that gains are often temporary. I specialize in approaches specifically geared toward deep and long-lasting change.
I am co-author of "The Innovative Parent: Raising Connected, Happy, Successful Kids through Art" and am a mother of three.
When life gets difficult, talk often isn't enough. With creative strategies, compassionate support, and cutting-edge tools, you can get past your past, feel more connected, and experience confidence, clarity, and joy. I am fascinated by the latest evidence on how we can bring about lasting change. I listen intently & share my thoughts. We'll get to the heart of the matter and connect the dots. Sure, we will talk. But we will do much more. Many find that talking to a therapist may produce some results, but that gains are often temporary. I specialize in approaches specifically geared toward deep and long-lasting change.
(424) 543-7185 View (424) 543-7185
Photo of Vicki Asher Wills, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vicki Asher Wills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92624
Clients looking for help with relationship difficulties, depression or anxiety, Parenting issues, life transitions, grief, feelings of emptiness, stress management, and compulsive behaviors can learn to take back control, change faulty thinking, and make the steps necessary to lead more fulfilling lives and relationships.
Sometimes life hands you situations that pop the lid off your typical ability to manage. You may need to learn some new skills and have an experienced objective perspective to get to feeling better about your life and relationships. That's where I can help. My cooperative approach to therapy is individually tailored to work with you to give you the support you need, teach you new skills, and provide feedback that can help you make changes.
Clients looking for help with relationship difficulties, depression or anxiety, Parenting issues, life transitions, grief, feelings of emptiness, stress management, and compulsive behaviors can learn to take back control, change faulty thinking, and make the steps necessary to lead more fulfilling lives and relationships.
Sometimes life hands you situations that pop the lid off your typical ability to manage. You may need to learn some new skills and have an experienced objective perspective to get to feeling better about your life and relationships. That's where I can help. My cooperative approach to therapy is individually tailored to work with you to give you the support you need, teach you new skills, and provide feedback that can help you make changes.
(949) 288-8986 View (949) 288-8986
Photo of Nina L. Dickerson, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nina L. Dickerson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629
As a therapist my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life you enjoy celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to develop coping skills and resolve behavior patterns and negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I have over 10 years of experience helping clients with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, marital issues, infidelity, career plans, parenting, teen issues, life transitions such as launching into adulthood and redefining relationships in the event of separation or divorce. I look forward to working with you.
As a therapist my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life you enjoy celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to develop coping skills and resolve behavior patterns and negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I have over 10 years of experience helping clients with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, marital issues, infidelity, career plans, parenting, teen issues, life transitions such as launching into adulthood and redefining relationships in the event of separation or divorce. I look forward to working with you.
(949) 427-2579 View (949) 427-2579
Photo of Sara Afsharpour, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara Afsharpour
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629
Therapy can benefit quite a few people, many of whom don’t need to have a mental disorder to reap the benefits. Some people it can benefit include: People with Low Self- Esteem. Being confident can land you the relationship of your dreams, get you that promotion you always wanted and makes you feel good. The problem is that some people don’t have enough self-esteem. Sometimes we are not happy with our appearance, or an event in the past killed our confidence, such as rejection or childhood trauma. Either way, with therapy, you can develop your self-esteem.
Therapy can benefit quite a few people, many of whom don’t need to have a mental disorder to reap the benefits. Some people it can benefit include: People with Low Self- Esteem. Being confident can land you the relationship of your dreams, get you that promotion you always wanted and makes you feel good. The problem is that some people don’t have enough self-esteem. Sometimes we are not happy with our appearance, or an event in the past killed our confidence, such as rejection or childhood trauma. Either way, with therapy, you can develop your self-esteem.
(714) 790-9213 View (714) 790-9213
Photo of Grant Waggoner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Grant Waggoner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629
If you have a child, teenager, or emerging adult who is struggling with hurt, grief, anxiety, or any other burden that appears heavy on their heart, I am here to help. It is my desire to create a space for clients to feel safe and heard within the counseling room. I believe that deep healing and change occur through a genuine and honest relationship with a caring counselor. You are warmly welcomed here.
If you have a child, teenager, or emerging adult who is struggling with hurt, grief, anxiety, or any other burden that appears heavy on their heart, I am here to help. It is my desire to create a space for clients to feel safe and heard within the counseling room. I believe that deep healing and change occur through a genuine and honest relationship with a caring counselor. You are warmly welcomed here.
(714) 276-8957 View (714) 276-8957
Photo of Nicole Testa, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Testa
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dana Point, CA 92629
If you are looking at this page, you are most likely trying to get help. Finding a good match is essential to successful therapy. I connect with clients by listening and exploring without judgement. Clients have told me they appreciate my compassion, finding it easy to talk with me about difficult issues. Psychotherapy is a process of self-discovery where you learn why you do what you do, as well as how to change behaviors. Many hide their authentic self, conforming to the expectations of others. Psychotherapy can assist you in becoming reacquainted with yourself.
If you are looking at this page, you are most likely trying to get help. Finding a good match is essential to successful therapy. I connect with clients by listening and exploring without judgement. Clients have told me they appreciate my compassion, finding it easy to talk with me about difficult issues. Psychotherapy is a process of self-discovery where you learn why you do what you do, as well as how to change behaviors. Many hide their authentic self, conforming to the expectations of others. Psychotherapy can assist you in becoming reacquainted with yourself.
(424) 275-2397 View (424) 275-2397
Photo of Jen Anthony, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jen Anthony
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92624
Have you been feeling like you need a change in your life, but are not sure how to go about making that happen? With my emphasis in Marriage & Family Therapy, the focus of my work includes life transitions, whether it is adjusting to parenthood, considering a change within the family system, or preparing for a career move. Learning methods to make even small changes can lead to positive improvements. I am passionate about helping individuals identify their values so they can move intentionally in a direction that inspires them. In my work with couples, I promote collaboration between them that aligns with their personal values.
Have you been feeling like you need a change in your life, but are not sure how to go about making that happen? With my emphasis in Marriage & Family Therapy, the focus of my work includes life transitions, whether it is adjusting to parenthood, considering a change within the family system, or preparing for a career move. Learning methods to make even small changes can lead to positive improvements. I am passionate about helping individuals identify their values so they can move intentionally in a direction that inspires them. In my work with couples, I promote collaboration between them that aligns with their personal values.
(949) 558-2870 View (949) 558-2870
Photo of Carly Ketchum, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carly Ketchum
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dana Point, CA 92629
Are you having problems in your marriage? Arguing, criticism, blaming - or trust issues, jealousy, struggling to rebuild trust after an affair? Is your partner unwilling to make the changes you want them to make? Do you feel misunderstood, frustrated, and not sure how to move forward? I specialize in helping couples communicate more effectively, rebuild trust and restore feelings of love and respect. With enthusiasm, warmth and a great sense of humor, I can offer you and your partner practical guidance based on cutting-edge relationship research that will help you repair your specific relationship problems.
Are you having problems in your marriage? Arguing, criticism, blaming - or trust issues, jealousy, struggling to rebuild trust after an affair? Is your partner unwilling to make the changes you want them to make? Do you feel misunderstood, frustrated, and not sure how to move forward? I specialize in helping couples communicate more effectively, rebuild trust and restore feelings of love and respect. With enthusiasm, warmth and a great sense of humor, I can offer you and your partner practical guidance based on cutting-edge relationship research that will help you repair your specific relationship problems.
(949) 383-5883 View (949) 383-5883
Photo of Gina Atencio-Maclean, PsyD, Psychologist
Gina Atencio-Maclean
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629
Now offering telehealth services for children, adolescents, and adults. We live in a fast-paced society that fosters stress, anxiety, and perfectionism, often at the expense of balance and well-being. As a psychologist, I work with clients to help them increase healthy functioning and create the balance they are seeking in their lives, behaviors and relationships. Unfortunately, many of the stressors of modern life begin to be felt early. I work with not only adults, but children and adolescents to help them learn healthy ways of managing the demands they face.
Now offering telehealth services for children, adolescents, and adults. We live in a fast-paced society that fosters stress, anxiety, and perfectionism, often at the expense of balance and well-being. As a psychologist, I work with clients to help them increase healthy functioning and create the balance they are seeking in their lives, behaviors and relationships. Unfortunately, many of the stressors of modern life begin to be felt early. I work with not only adults, but children and adolescents to help them learn healthy ways of managing the demands they face.
(949) 565-2510 View (949) 565-2510
Photo of Dr. Catherin Snyder, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Catherin Snyder
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629
We all deal with is Stress, right? It affects us and comes in many forms: Loss/threats of loss to the the good experience of/in life… creates anxiety and can become depression/bipolar. Development of the Ego in life transitions is key to understanding 'signal' anxiety even when things are 'fine'. Family Issues, Separation, Divorce, Medical Issues, Becoming Widowed, Dealing with Dominating Aggressive Toxic Bullies at School & Work (who project their traumas on the victim), etc. all Require Knowledge of The Ego to Strengthen and Work Through Healthily 'issues' without Succumbing to Mental Breakdown (i.e., deterioration of the Ego).
We all deal with is Stress, right? It affects us and comes in many forms: Loss/threats of loss to the the good experience of/in life… creates anxiety and can become depression/bipolar. Development of the Ego in life transitions is key to understanding 'signal' anxiety even when things are 'fine'. Family Issues, Separation, Divorce, Medical Issues, Becoming Widowed, Dealing with Dominating Aggressive Toxic Bullies at School & Work (who project their traumas on the victim), etc. all Require Knowledge of The Ego to Strengthen and Work Through Healthily 'issues' without Succumbing to Mental Breakdown (i.e., deterioration of the Ego).
(844) 722-0252 View (844) 722-0252
Photo of Arlene K Unger, PhD, Psychologist
Arlene K Unger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629  (Online Only)
Change is an inevitable part of life. The lack of change or too much change can overwhelm us and derail our growth. No one escapes hardship and stress. During these times we need the trust, respect, and empathy of an impartial professional especially when family and friends are just too close to the matter. With more than 20 years of clinical practice, I've found that the healthier person reaches out for help beyond their immediate sphere. I see myself as a guide facilitating my patients' healthy risk taking and helping them manifest their visions for a better future.
Change is an inevitable part of life. The lack of change or too much change can overwhelm us and derail our growth. No one escapes hardship and stress. During these times we need the trust, respect, and empathy of an impartial professional especially when family and friends are just too close to the matter. With more than 20 years of clinical practice, I've found that the healthier person reaches out for help beyond their immediate sphere. I see myself as a guide facilitating my patients' healthy risk taking and helping them manifest their visions for a better future.
(949) 342-5931 View (949) 342-5931
Photo of Estee Huff, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Estee Huff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dana Point, CA 92629  (Online Only)
Focus on creating a secure bond with your partner. My goal as a therapist is to support couples on the adventure of finding their way to each other. Connect with yourself and your partner as you both find insights into your relationship.
Focus on creating a secure bond with your partner. My goal as a therapist is to support couples on the adventure of finding their way to each other. Connect with yourself and your partner as you both find insights into your relationship.
(619) 664-4668 View (619) 664-4668
Photo of Marla Faith Maciel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marla Faith Maciel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dana Point, CA 92629  (Online Only)
I am an LCSW with experience working with individuals, couples, and families from various cultural and socioeconomic groups. I have experience working with individuals with grief, loss, trauma, substance abuse, previous incarceration, chronic medical issues, and family relational issues. I also have knowledge and experience working with individuals to manage chronic mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. With empathy, compassion and 30 years of experience I am available to help guide you through this journey of healing and managing your current situation.
I am an LCSW with experience working with individuals, couples, and families from various cultural and socioeconomic groups. I have experience working with individuals with grief, loss, trauma, substance abuse, previous incarceration, chronic medical issues, and family relational issues. I also have knowledge and experience working with individuals to manage chronic mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. With empathy, compassion and 30 years of experience I am available to help guide you through this journey of healing and managing your current situation.
(714) 294-2327 View (714) 294-2327
1
Parenting Therapists

What does therapy for parenting look like?

Therapists may work with parents individually, together, or include the whole family to find solutions for the problems a parent faces. Many parent-based therapies work on a parent’s relationship with their children, problem-solving within the family, and analysis of family dynamics. Therapy conducted remotely by video may be helpful in allowing a therapist to observe how families interact in their own homes.

When should a parent seek therapy?

When behavioral problems begin to disrupt the healthy functioning of a family, it may be a good time to look into therapy. If parents find that children are acting out in school, have started using drugs or alcohol, have developed eating disorders, or other similar red flags, a therapist may be able to help.

How long does therapy take for parenting problems?

Depending on the severity of a family’s challenges and the type of treatment utilized, therapy for parenting can last from weeks to months. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a pragmatic therapy type that can be brief, most often ranging from between 5 and 20 sessions. Structural family therapy, which inspects family dynamics, often takes several months. Parent-child interaction therapy is typically shorter-term, lasting between 10 and 20 sessions. For any therapy, the duration will depend on the progress made and results realized.

Can therapy help parents dealing with burnout or stress?

Parenting is difficult. Parents may dismiss or conceal feelings of exhaustion, overwhelm, or escape ideation—imagining withdrawing from their parental obligations altogether. but left unattended, these feelings can have negative effects on the whole family. A therapist can help parents work on the skills they might need to better cope with the burdens of parenting and help them be the best parents they can be.