Psychoanalytic Therapists in Irvine, CA

Photo of Mauri-Lynne Heller, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mauri-Lynne Heller
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92619  (Online Only)
People often begin psychoanalytic therapy after feeling disappointed by other forms of treatment that attempt to control thoughts and behaviors.
A psychoanalyst and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, in addition to my general adult practice, I specialize in adolescents/young adults on the spectrum and their families; phase of life/human development issues, character disorders, and psychotic disorders. I also specialize in the treatment of specific developmental and emotional concerns of adolescents and young adults. Psychoanalytic therapy addresses your very specific needs and problems. The therapeutic relationship we develop will allow us to work collaboratively to find solutions and answers together. The more committed you are, the more change you will experience.
People often begin psychoanalytic therapy after feeling disappointed by other forms of treatment that attempt to control thoughts and behaviors.
A psychoanalyst and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, in addition to my general adult practice, I specialize in adolescents/young adults on the spectrum and their families; phase of life/human development issues, character disorders, and psychotic disorders. I also specialize in the treatment of specific developmental and emotional concerns of adolescents and young adults. Psychoanalytic therapy addresses your very specific needs and problems. The therapeutic relationship we develop will allow us to work collaboratively to find solutions and answers together. The more committed you are, the more change you will experience.
(949) 891-0871 View (949) 891-0871
Photo of Dean Leav - Men’s Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Men’s Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(949) 694-7993 View (949) 694-7993
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(949) 694-7987 View (949) 694-7987
Photo of Laima Sappintgon Ph.d, RPS
Laima Sappintgon Ph.d
RPS
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
Every person has a story to tell that is unique to them. While some therapies deal with symptoms alone, I use a psychoanalytic approach to explore and appreciate the depths and intricacies of human existence. I bring socio-psychodynamic, cultural, psychoanalytic and neuropsychoanalytic perspectives to the exploration of one's psyche. These perspectives enable me to appreciate the depths and complexities of our internal worlds, as well as to address life’s challenges and uncertainties.
Every person has a story to tell that is unique to them. While some therapies deal with symptoms alone, I use a psychoanalytic approach to explore and appreciate the depths and intricacies of human existence. I bring socio-psychodynamic, cultural, psychoanalytic and neuropsychoanalytic perspectives to the exploration of one's psyche. These perspectives enable me to appreciate the depths and complexities of our internal worlds, as well as to address life’s challenges and uncertainties.
(323) 849-3912 View (323) 849-3912
Photo of Deborah L Farnsworth, PsyD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah L Farnsworth
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
Psychoanalytic psychotherapy offers a uniquely rich opportunity for growth, self discovery and change.
I have been a Marriage and Family therapist for over 25 years. I enjoy working with and helping couples and individuals who are having difficulty finding joy and happiness in their lives. I believe strongly that we all are trying to build a healthier life, but sometimes need a little help understanding the things that get in our way. We get in a rut, repeating the same destructive behaviors and feel hopeless about ever getting what we really want and need. I can help you identify negative patterns, understand where they come from and change them into effective, self affirming strategies.
Psychoanalytic psychotherapy offers a uniquely rich opportunity for growth, self discovery and change.
I have been a Marriage and Family therapist for over 25 years. I enjoy working with and helping couples and individuals who are having difficulty finding joy and happiness in their lives. I believe strongly that we all are trying to build a healthier life, but sometimes need a little help understanding the things that get in our way. We get in a rut, repeating the same destructive behaviors and feel hopeless about ever getting what we really want and need. I can help you identify negative patterns, understand where they come from and change them into effective, self affirming strategies.
(949) 214-4827 View (949) 214-4827
Photo of Brendan Baer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brendan Baer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92602
The modern psychoanalytic / psychodynamic psychotherapy I practice addresses your current struggles in light of early experiences and relationships with caregivers/significant others.
GO DEEPER. Discover what holds you back personally and in relationships with others. Unlock your potential through psychoanalytic / psychodynamic based psychotherapy which is my focus. Do you find yourself living out the same unfortunate patterns over and over? Do you often wonder why you end up making the decisions that you do? Do you struggle in relationships? Are you really living up to your expectations? These are just a few of the questions can we can explore, and better understand together in the therapeutic process. Change can happen!
The modern psychoanalytic / psychodynamic psychotherapy I practice addresses your current struggles in light of early experiences and relationships with caregivers/significant others.
GO DEEPER. Discover what holds you back personally and in relationships with others. Unlock your potential through psychoanalytic / psychodynamic based psychotherapy which is my focus. Do you find yourself living out the same unfortunate patterns over and over? Do you often wonder why you end up making the decisions that you do? Do you struggle in relationships? Are you really living up to your expectations? These are just a few of the questions can we can explore, and better understand together in the therapeutic process. Change can happen!
(714) 988-6874 View (714) 988-6874
Photo of Melinda A. Zaccagnino, PsyD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melinda A. Zaccagnino
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92710
Life holds uncertainty and breeds confusion. It is often difficult to navigate oneself through the murky waters that seem to be apart of this life flow . Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy can provide clarity, understanding and an empowered sense of who you are. Through the increased ability to be aware of your internal experience, comes the ability to manage what comes your way and how best to care for yourself and loved ones. A deep sense of joy is attained as grief, loss and disillusionment are faced. This intimate journey with your self and with me holds the possibility of transformation in the most fundamental ways.
Life holds uncertainty and breeds confusion. It is often difficult to navigate oneself through the murky waters that seem to be apart of this life flow . Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy can provide clarity, understanding and an empowered sense of who you are. Through the increased ability to be aware of your internal experience, comes the ability to manage what comes your way and how best to care for yourself and loved ones. A deep sense of joy is attained as grief, loss and disillusionment are faced. This intimate journey with your self and with me holds the possibility of transformation in the most fundamental ways.
(714) 594-9983 View (714) 594-9983
Photo of Bryan Forbes, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bryan Forbes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92620
I rely mostly on psychodynamic and psychoanalytic approaches in my clinical work.
I'm here to help you experience the healing and genuine change that you want. Many of us spend years and years suffering, experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and negative self-talk. Sadly, we will often navigate this suffering alone and without any company or support. As a result, we find ourselves stuck in patterns and cycles of pain, stress and emotional overwhelm. I work from a depth-oriented approach that helps individuals and couples overcome these painful patterns and cycles. I focus especially on issues of anxiety, OCD, low self-esteem, difficulties with self-expression and relationship challenges.
I rely mostly on psychodynamic and psychoanalytic approaches in my clinical work.
I'm here to help you experience the healing and genuine change that you want. Many of us spend years and years suffering, experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and negative self-talk. Sadly, we will often navigate this suffering alone and without any company or support. As a result, we find ourselves stuck in patterns and cycles of pain, stress and emotional overwhelm. I work from a depth-oriented approach that helps individuals and couples overcome these painful patterns and cycles. I focus especially on issues of anxiety, OCD, low self-esteem, difficulties with self-expression and relationship challenges.
(949) 867-7871 View (949) 867-7871
Photo of Cheryl Graybill Dale, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cheryl Graybill Dale
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92710
I work with each person from an individualized perspective, addressing issues from a psychodynamic, cognitive and psychoanalytic framework.
Are you looking for a place to begin healing? Have you tried many other things, only to feel disappointed that life's challenges continue to be more complex than you thought? An effective therapy process creates space and understanding for the purpose of transforming life's struggles and disappointments. In the process, a renewed capacity for more satisfying relationships, greater effectiveness, resiliency and coping skills begin to emerge. Life becomes meaningful and purposeful. In a professional, caring environment, I seek to uncover the patterns and difficulties of the past and create an environment where healing and recovery can take place.
I work with each person from an individualized perspective, addressing issues from a psychodynamic, cognitive and psychoanalytic framework.
Are you looking for a place to begin healing? Have you tried many other things, only to feel disappointed that life's challenges continue to be more complex than you thought? An effective therapy process creates space and understanding for the purpose of transforming life's struggles and disappointments. In the process, a renewed capacity for more satisfying relationships, greater effectiveness, resiliency and coping skills begin to emerge. Life becomes meaningful and purposeful. In a professional, caring environment, I seek to uncover the patterns and difficulties of the past and create an environment where healing and recovery can take place.
(714) 759-2300 View (714) 759-2300
Photo of Esther K Chun, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Esther K Chun
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92614
At times, we feel stuck in negative personal/relational patterns; are reeling from a loss, hurt or other traumatic events; are navigating transitions/changes and desiring clarity and direction; are grappling with existential/spiritual questions; struggle with anxiety, depression, anger, and/or addiction; or, are struggling with family issues including cultural conflicts and abuse. I collaborate with individuals, couples, and families to discover positive and adaptive ways to move forward that are uniquely empowering and authentic to who they are.
At times, we feel stuck in negative personal/relational patterns; are reeling from a loss, hurt or other traumatic events; are navigating transitions/changes and desiring clarity and direction; are grappling with existential/spiritual questions; struggle with anxiety, depression, anger, and/or addiction; or, are struggling with family issues including cultural conflicts and abuse. I collaborate with individuals, couples, and families to discover positive and adaptive ways to move forward that are uniquely empowering and authentic to who they are.
(510) 771-7542 View (510) 771-7542
Photo of Sanaz Motamedi, PsyD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sanaz Motamedi
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
Are you tired of trying to change your life and not succeed? Do you feel under-valued and misunderstood by others? Are you looking for someone trustworthy with experience handling sensitive emotional issues to provide deep understanding, empathy and help you change your life and relationships? Life can be difficult but you don't have to go through it alone. Great job taking the initial step! I have helped countless people for more than 15 years in therapy and have seen astounding changes in people's lives including their relationships and others. I look forward to our journey of healing, integration and growth together!
Are you tired of trying to change your life and not succeed? Do you feel under-valued and misunderstood by others? Are you looking for someone trustworthy with experience handling sensitive emotional issues to provide deep understanding, empathy and help you change your life and relationships? Life can be difficult but you don't have to go through it alone. Great job taking the initial step! I have helped countless people for more than 15 years in therapy and have seen astounding changes in people's lives including their relationships and others. I look forward to our journey of healing, integration and growth together!
(949) 531-7068 View (949) 531-7068
Photo of Suzanne Onikul Ross, PhD, RN, Psychologist
Suzanne Onikul Ross
Psychologist, PhD, RN
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92606
Psychotherapy is a very special endeavor with potential for positive change and decrease in discomfort. I see the therapeutic relationship formed in psychotherapy as that vehicle for change. I have worked 10 years as a nurse practitioner and over 15 years as a Clinical Psychologist. My expertise in these fields place me in a unique position to understand the mind/body interfaceI bring a unique perspective to my work particularly in the areas of women's health issues, transitions in life: men and women, postpartum depression, stress reduction, mindfulness,and coping with chronic medical illnesses. I am on staff at Hoag Hospital.
Psychotherapy is a very special endeavor with potential for positive change and decrease in discomfort. I see the therapeutic relationship formed in psychotherapy as that vehicle for change. I have worked 10 years as a nurse practitioner and over 15 years as a Clinical Psychologist. My expertise in these fields place me in a unique position to understand the mind/body interfaceI bring a unique perspective to my work particularly in the areas of women's health issues, transitions in life: men and women, postpartum depression, stress reduction, mindfulness,and coping with chronic medical illnesses. I am on staff at Hoag Hospital.
(714) 752-3877 View (714) 752-3877
Photo of Renee Ward, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92604  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Renee and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. As a therapist I have had the opportunity to work with clients looking for guidance and relief in many areas such as: anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, neurodivergent issues related to ADHD/Autism/Asperger's, body dysmorphia and gender dysphoria. I am neurodiversity and gender affirming. Please contact me for a 15 min free consultation to see if we are a good fit. I will get back to you within 24 hours.
Hello! I'm Renee and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. As a therapist I have had the opportunity to work with clients looking for guidance and relief in many areas such as: anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, neurodivergent issues related to ADHD/Autism/Asperger's, body dysmorphia and gender dysphoria. I am neurodiversity and gender affirming. Please contact me for a 15 min free consultation to see if we are a good fit. I will get back to you within 24 hours.
(714) 586-8678 View (714) 586-8678
Photo of Sarah Lei, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sarah Lei
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612
Hi there, and welcome! I believe that our lives and relationships are shaped by stories—stories about who we are, where we’ve come from, and where we might be headed. Sometimes, those stories leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves and others, and it’s in these moments that therapy can be a powerful, transformative space. Together, we won’t just talk; we’ll work through the emotions, patterns, and underlying dynamics that shape your experiences. This process requires courage and vulnerability, but it’s through this relational work that real understanding and change can take place.
Hi there, and welcome! I believe that our lives and relationships are shaped by stories—stories about who we are, where we’ve come from, and where we might be headed. Sometimes, those stories leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves and others, and it’s in these moments that therapy can be a powerful, transformative space. Together, we won’t just talk; we’ll work through the emotions, patterns, and underlying dynamics that shape your experiences. This process requires courage and vulnerability, but it’s through this relational work that real understanding and change can take place.
(714) 367-6303 View (714) 367-6303
Photo of Eileen Paniagua - Mindful Wellness Center, PsyD, Psychologist
Mindful Wellness Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92606
We specialize in Neuropsychology and Health Psychology. Conveniently located in Irvine CA we offer comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological services under a holistic approach to fit individual needs in medical, academic, athletic/sports and corporate settings. Specialized services include testing, QEEG/Brain Mapping, neurofeecback, biofeedback, neuro-coaching, and psychotherapy.
We specialize in Neuropsychology and Health Psychology. Conveniently located in Irvine CA we offer comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological services under a holistic approach to fit individual needs in medical, academic, athletic/sports and corporate settings. Specialized services include testing, QEEG/Brain Mapping, neurofeecback, biofeedback, neuro-coaching, and psychotherapy.
(949) 887-2007 View (949) 887-2007
Photo of Nahid S Ghajar, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nahid S Ghajar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
Life could be thought of as a journey with many challenges, twists, turns, and peak experiences. Therapy is a personal investment we make in our self It can be a part of our life journey where we get to know and understand our self and others, and find the true meaning and purpose of our life. It can afford a person an opportunity to outgrow insecurities, discover his or her strength and become the best person you can possibly be. Therapy is for everyone a place to learn and grow.
Life could be thought of as a journey with many challenges, twists, turns, and peak experiences. Therapy is a personal investment we make in our self It can be a part of our life journey where we get to know and understand our self and others, and find the true meaning and purpose of our life. It can afford a person an opportunity to outgrow insecurities, discover his or her strength and become the best person you can possibly be. Therapy is for everyone a place to learn and grow.
(949) 799-4029 View (949) 799-4029
Photo of Natalie Larios Martinez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalie Larios Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
Hello! I am so happy you are here. My name is Natalie Martinez and I am a Bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and adults. As I am aware that the process of searching for a therapist can be overwhelming, I would like to commend you on taking this first step. I have extensive experience providing trauma-informed care to a variety of ages. I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, parenting, cultural concerns, relationships, family conflict, life transitions, attachment issues, and many others.
Hello! I am so happy you are here. My name is Natalie Martinez and I am a Bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and adults. As I am aware that the process of searching for a therapist can be overwhelming, I would like to commend you on taking this first step. I have extensive experience providing trauma-informed care to a variety of ages. I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, parenting, cultural concerns, relationships, family conflict, life transitions, attachment issues, and many others.
(949) 575-8757 View (949) 575-8757
Photo of Sufi Farkhan, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sufi Farkhan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612  (Online Only)
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Dr. Sufi specializes in Marriage and Family Therapy. Her role as a therapist is to guide you toward finding that balance within yourself. We will explore how your thoughts, emotions, body, childhood experiences, relationships, genetics, and current environment are contributing to your distress and healing.
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Dr. Sufi specializes in Marriage and Family Therapy. Her role as a therapist is to guide you toward finding that balance within yourself. We will explore how your thoughts, emotions, body, childhood experiences, relationships, genetics, and current environment are contributing to your distress and healing.
(310) 341-7564 View (310) 341-7564
Photo of Farnaz Namin Ph.d., PhD, MA, MS, Psychologist
Farnaz Namin Ph.d.
Psychologist, PhD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92617  (Online Only)
In addition to counseling, I am able to assist in a variety of ways: Neuropsychological Evaluations for school, work, disability, social security, medical procedure, therapy dog, immigration, workers comp etc.
In addition to counseling, I am able to assist in a variety of ways: Neuropsychological Evaluations for school, work, disability, social security, medical procedure, therapy dog, immigration, workers comp etc.
(949) 259-4800 View (949) 259-4800
Photo of Rebecca Pottenger, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Pottenger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
As a marriage and family therapist I create a safe and compassionate space so you can address unhealed wounds and access the part of you that knows how to heal, so that resilience and a way forward can be found, and self-esteem and self-confidence built. My experiential and embodied approach to psychotherapy can help you unearth the roots of inner conflict, discover inner reservoirs of wisdom, and heal unresolved trauma and emotional wounding.
As a marriage and family therapist I create a safe and compassionate space so you can address unhealed wounds and access the part of you that knows how to heal, so that resilience and a way forward can be found, and self-esteem and self-confidence built. My experiential and embodied approach to psychotherapy can help you unearth the roots of inner conflict, discover inner reservoirs of wisdom, and heal unresolved trauma and emotional wounding.
(949) 421-6277 View (949) 421-6277
Psychoanalytic Therapists

Does psychoanalytic therapy work?

Psychoanalytic therapy derives from the work of Sigmund Freud. In this type of therapy, discovering buried thoughts and emotions from the unconscious will help a person work through their difficulties and negative behaviors. Research shows that psychoanalytic therapy can be highly effective, with patients reporting improvement in mood, quality of life, and overall well-being.

How long are people typically in psychoanalytic therapy?

Traditional psychoanalysis is in-depth and is conducted in five sessions every week. Today, modern psychoanalytic therapy is less intense and normally incorporates as few as one or two sessions a week. In some cases, positive change can occur quickly. However, if the condition, difficulty, or behavior is deep-seated, improvement may require many months or years of therapy.

Is psychoanalytic therapy suitable for young people?

Children and adolescents can benefit from this type of therapy. Many kids and teens are often unable to form and communicate their thoughts and emotions. Psychoanalytic therapy uses specific techniques such as dream analysis, symbolism, and free association or word association; all of which can be useful tools for less-communicative young people. Through this therapy, a patient will hopefully make connections between what they feel inside and how the world works outside.

Can psychoanalytic therapy be done online?

Modern-day psychoanalytic therapy is very different from traditional psychoanalysis. While an individual can sit face-to-face with the psychoanalyst for multiple sessions a week, they do not have to. Today, psychoanalytic therapy can be effectively conducted online or by phone. The key is that the individual confronts what is repressed and avoided, and this can be done whether in person or over online video.