Male Therapists in Mission Viejo, CA
I’ve been a licensed clinical social worker in California for over 37 years, dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate their challenges to find deeper connection, understanding, and growth. My approach fosters open communication, leading not only to a clearer understanding of the issue at hand but also of oneself. By guiding clients toward self-awareness and resolving internal resistance, I help them overcome obstacles rooted in past traumas.
I’ve been a licensed clinical social worker in California for over 37 years, dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate their challenges to find deeper connection, understanding, and growth. My approach fosters open communication, leading not only to a clearer understanding of the issue at hand but also of oneself. By guiding clients toward self-awareness and resolving internal resistance, I help them overcome obstacles rooted in past traumas.
If you are tired of the man you have become and would like help making positive changes, please contact me for a free consultation.
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.
If you are tired of the man you have become and would like help making positive changes, please contact me for a free consultation.
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.
My work is solution focused. I work in a Family Systems Orientation to help bring context to what is happening today and a Cognitive Behavioral Orientation to help clients make adjustments in the present. Our past family experiences are important. What we learned in our family is very much related to how we do life today.
My work is solution focused. I work in a Family Systems Orientation to help bring context to what is happening today and a Cognitive Behavioral Orientation to help clients make adjustments in the present. Our past family experiences are important. What we learned in our family is very much related to how we do life today.
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I have decades of experience in marketplace leadership and have seen nearly every possible problem that men and women face as they navigate stressful jobs and seek to keep their families intact.
You are a strong leader in your workplace who feels the stress of maintaining a balanced life. You may be juggling responsibilities at work and home, and it feels as if there are not enough hours in the day to get everything done. Your family and friends get whatever time is left over. This pattern has caused stress in your relationships. Or you may be thinking about transitioning to retirement but what exactly are you transitioning to? How do you deal with the mental challenge of leaving your work life and making an impact with the productive years you have left. I can help you deal with life’s challenges.
I have decades of experience in marketplace leadership and have seen nearly every possible problem that men and women face as they navigate stressful jobs and seek to keep their families intact.
You are a strong leader in your workplace who feels the stress of maintaining a balanced life. You may be juggling responsibilities at work and home, and it feels as if there are not enough hours in the day to get everything done. Your family and friends get whatever time is left over. This pattern has caused stress in your relationships. Or you may be thinking about transitioning to retirement but what exactly are you transitioning to? How do you deal with the mental challenge of leaving your work life and making an impact with the productive years you have left. I can help you deal with life’s challenges.
My approach is to empower you to cope better to life’s challenges in a way that is innovative and that has lasting results. I use virtual reality as a tool in therapy and am available regardless of the distance-through a secure telemedicine application. My specialty is in treating chronic health problems. In France, I was professor of clinical and health psychology and I directed several research projects on anxiety, mood disorders, addiction and trauma. I have published the findings of my research in nearly 50 articles in scientific journals and authored 5 books. In 2018, I completed a fellowship at the City of Hope Medical Center.
My approach is to empower you to cope better to life’s challenges in a way that is innovative and that has lasting results. I use virtual reality as a tool in therapy and am available regardless of the distance-through a secure telemedicine application. My specialty is in treating chronic health problems. In France, I was professor of clinical and health psychology and I directed several research projects on anxiety, mood disorders, addiction and trauma. I have published the findings of my research in nearly 50 articles in scientific journals and authored 5 books. In 2018, I completed a fellowship at the City of Hope Medical Center.
Timothy Nathan Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
When people seek therapy, they are usually looking for a safe space where their struggles and heard and understood without judgement. They want a compassionate listener who can validate their personal experiences, offer support, and guide them collaboratively through challenging times. Are you looking for someone who not only comprehends your emotional turmoil but also provides practical tools to navigate life's complexities? Looking for a therapeutic experience where you can uncover deeper insights, cultivate resilience, and ultimately, empower yourself to create positive changes in your lives?
When people seek therapy, they are usually looking for a safe space where their struggles and heard and understood without judgement. They want a compassionate listener who can validate their personal experiences, offer support, and guide them collaboratively through challenging times. Are you looking for someone who not only comprehends your emotional turmoil but also provides practical tools to navigate life's complexities? Looking for a therapeutic experience where you can uncover deeper insights, cultivate resilience, and ultimately, empower yourself to create positive changes in your lives?
Michael J. Kuhle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
All meaningful lives involve pain, there is no escaping this. Even if we cannot avoid pain, we can learn to rise above it and still create a life worth living. Life will never be unbearable due to circumstances, but only from a lack of purpose and meaning. My job is to help you look at your situation differently, and to develop a committed action plan to make the positive changes you have been wanting to. Like the Serenity Prayer says, we need to accept the things we cannot change, and have courage to change what we can, starting with ourselves.
All meaningful lives involve pain, there is no escaping this. Even if we cannot avoid pain, we can learn to rise above it and still create a life worth living. Life will never be unbearable due to circumstances, but only from a lack of purpose and meaning. My job is to help you look at your situation differently, and to develop a committed action plan to make the positive changes you have been wanting to. Like the Serenity Prayer says, we need to accept the things we cannot change, and have courage to change what we can, starting with ourselves.
Dr. Evan Fewsmith
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
I work with Depression/Anxiety, Adult Survivors of Childhood Abuse, Trauma, Men's Issues, Marriage and Family issues, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, other issues as well.
I know how hard it is to look for the right therapist. Before you make a appointment, it is my sincere attempt here to explain who I am and how I work. I provide individual sessions based on a foundation of trust, genuineness and respect. I work with clients by educating them, processing thoughts and feelings, exploring options, and directing new ways to interact. I believe everyone has the ability to grow if given an opportunity to be coached and supported by a trusted therapist. I possess a large repertoire of psychological interventions and tools to draw from. I work differently and individually with each and every client.
I work with Depression/Anxiety, Adult Survivors of Childhood Abuse, Trauma, Men's Issues, Marriage and Family issues, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, other issues as well.
I know how hard it is to look for the right therapist. Before you make a appointment, it is my sincere attempt here to explain who I am and how I work. I provide individual sessions based on a foundation of trust, genuineness and respect. I work with clients by educating them, processing thoughts and feelings, exploring options, and directing new ways to interact. I believe everyone has the ability to grow if given an opportunity to be coached and supported by a trusted therapist. I possess a large repertoire of psychological interventions and tools to draw from. I work differently and individually with each and every client.
Brenton Love
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
I focus on reframing problems and finding indivual unique strengths through the vast array of male-specific issues and the stigma they may face.
If juggling work, life, and relationships has made your life miserable, therapy can help. As men we want to fix things, which is great, but in relationships this can be a weakness. Effective emotional communication is hard and one of the top complaints of partners. Society has taught men to be emotional ignorant which has led to incredible high rates of addiction, depression, and anxiety. As men we often need practical solutions and tangible results before we start to buy in to therapy. If you're finding yourself struggling in life and are unsure of where to turn for help, you've come to the right place.
I focus on reframing problems and finding indivual unique strengths through the vast array of male-specific issues and the stigma they may face.
If juggling work, life, and relationships has made your life miserable, therapy can help. As men we want to fix things, which is great, but in relationships this can be a weakness. Effective emotional communication is hard and one of the top complaints of partners. Society has taught men to be emotional ignorant which has led to incredible high rates of addiction, depression, and anxiety. As men we often need practical solutions and tangible results before we start to buy in to therapy. If you're finding yourself struggling in life and are unsure of where to turn for help, you've come to the right place.
I am a clinical therapist that has been in the field of mental health for many years. I have a specialized knowledge of trauma, depression, and anxiety disorders. Some clients have high levels of anxiety that makes them feel uncomfortable. Or, they have been struggling with certain thinking patterns that are cyclical and come to no resolution. Sometimes, they are struggling with relationship conflicts that keep bringing up things from the past. Examples, such as these are often trauma related. Having a therapist who understands traumas can make the difference.
I am a clinical therapist that has been in the field of mental health for many years. I have a specialized knowledge of trauma, depression, and anxiety disorders. Some clients have high levels of anxiety that makes them feel uncomfortable. Or, they have been struggling with certain thinking patterns that are cyclical and come to no resolution. Sometimes, they are struggling with relationship conflicts that keep bringing up things from the past. Examples, such as these are often trauma related. Having a therapist who understands traumas can make the difference.
15 Second Videos
Paul Gillane
Evan Fewsmith
Brenton Love
Curtis Hsia
Harry C. Robinson
Paul Gillane
Vincent Nunez
Christophe Ngo
Jeffrey Ly Quitting Porn Specialization
Interventions and Beyond / Roberto A Henderson
VCAT Mental Health and Detox Center
Cort Curtis
Leonard Szymczak
Arash Shahangian
Wave After Wave Counseling
Mark Wojciechowski
Mr. Therapist, Individual and Family Therapy
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I understand why reaching out for counseling help might be difficult because of feelings of guilt, shame or failure. To ask for help requires a certain level of humility, and we all have a struggle with our pride. But I have yet to talk to someone who regretted making the effort. I am blessed to point the way toward Christ-centered thinking. Christian counseling based on God's Word helps couples and individuals see their struggles in light of God's desires and expectations. As a biblical counselor, I feel called to gently guide my clients toward the truth of Scripture and the application of those truths to their lives.
I understand why reaching out for counseling help might be difficult because of feelings of guilt, shame or failure. To ask for help requires a certain level of humility, and we all have a struggle with our pride. But I have yet to talk to someone who regretted making the effort. I am blessed to point the way toward Christ-centered thinking. Christian counseling based on God's Word helps couples and individuals see their struggles in light of God's desires and expectations. As a biblical counselor, I feel called to gently guide my clients toward the truth of Scripture and the application of those truths to their lives.
Steve Aird
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691 (Online Only)
Are you grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, or a job? Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or are you lacking motivation? Are you experiencing challenges in your current relationships? Do current or past traumas make it difficult to manage daily life? If you are seeking healing, healthy and loving relationships, freedom from current and past traumas, and greater peace and joy, I would love to work with you. I have 20 years of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and age groups.
Are you grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, or a job? Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or are you lacking motivation? Are you experiencing challenges in your current relationships? Do current or past traumas make it difficult to manage daily life? If you are seeking healing, healthy and loving relationships, freedom from current and past traumas, and greater peace and joy, I would love to work with you. I have 20 years of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and age groups.
Anxiety, panic, fear, and OCD have answers. You can take control. As the director of the OC Anxiety Center, we use empirically supported treatments (CBT and ACT), tailored to each individual. Through the use of virtual therapy and in-person exposure therapy, we provide my patients with over 25 years of experience, specializing in OCD, Anxiety, and related disorders. Our patients average a 15-week treatment, with the option of 6 to 8-day intensive formats. Our focus is to do a proper assessment to understand the issues and help my patients to set goals, achieve them, and move on in life as quickly as possible.
Anxiety, panic, fear, and OCD have answers. You can take control. As the director of the OC Anxiety Center, we use empirically supported treatments (CBT and ACT), tailored to each individual. Through the use of virtual therapy and in-person exposure therapy, we provide my patients with over 25 years of experience, specializing in OCD, Anxiety, and related disorders. Our patients average a 15-week treatment, with the option of 6 to 8-day intensive formats. Our focus is to do a proper assessment to understand the issues and help my patients to set goals, achieve them, and move on in life as quickly as possible.
Dr. Barek Sharif
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
I work with men from all walks of life.
No one wakes up and feels badly about themselves or their situations – this occurs over time. This usually results from the messages that we received from unhealthy people around us, toxic environments, or unrealistic pressures from society. As men, the weight of these negative forces can be unbearable. And perhaps therapy is your 'last ditch effort' to gain understanding in who you are and what you want from life.
I work with men from all walks of life.
No one wakes up and feels badly about themselves or their situations – this occurs over time. This usually results from the messages that we received from unhealthy people around us, toxic environments, or unrealistic pressures from society. As men, the weight of these negative forces can be unbearable. And perhaps therapy is your 'last ditch effort' to gain understanding in who you are and what you want from life.
I grew up in the era when people rarely saw a counselor. Fortunately times have changed. I would say many are still uncomfortable to do so. I assure you that I would be honored to hear your story. I am a listener who values your trust. Opening up is sacred ground. I have been counseling since 2009. Most of my clients were adult guys and couples. I use a client centered model. I've had pastoral experience and can work in biblical principles, if desired. I look forward to working with you.
I grew up in the era when people rarely saw a counselor. Fortunately times have changed. I would say many are still uncomfortable to do so. I assure you that I would be honored to hear your story. I am a listener who values your trust. Opening up is sacred ground. I have been counseling since 2009. Most of my clients were adult guys and couples. I use a client centered model. I've had pastoral experience and can work in biblical principles, if desired. I look forward to working with you.
My ideal client faces anxiety, depression, trauma, or addiction, seeking a supportive and understanding environment to explore their challenges. They may have cultural or military-related issues, severe mental illness, or need help with social skills. Their goals include managing symptoms, improving emotional regulation, enhancing interpersonal effectiveness, and achieving overall well-being. They are motivated to engage in therapy, open to evidence-based approaches like CBT, DBT, and EMDR, and committed to positive changes. They want to regain control, build resilience, and cultivate a healthier, more fulfilling future.
My ideal client faces anxiety, depression, trauma, or addiction, seeking a supportive and understanding environment to explore their challenges. They may have cultural or military-related issues, severe mental illness, or need help with social skills. Their goals include managing symptoms, improving emotional regulation, enhancing interpersonal effectiveness, and achieving overall well-being. They are motivated to engage in therapy, open to evidence-based approaches like CBT, DBT, and EMDR, and committed to positive changes. They want to regain control, build resilience, and cultivate a healthier, more fulfilling future.
Joe Saavedra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, CCTP, SATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92692 (Online Only)
As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) trained in IFS, I am absolutely passionate about helping those impacted by sexual integrity issues. I work with "addicted parts" using individual, couple, and group therapy modalities. I am quite aware of relational trauma that partners of sex, porn, and relationship addicts experience, and I compassionately work to guide addicted parts through isolating and shame-filled experiences. My role is to help reduce this shame and systematically get to the root of the addictive and compulsive behaviors that have led to intimacy disorder issues.
As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) trained in IFS, I am absolutely passionate about helping those impacted by sexual integrity issues. I work with "addicted parts" using individual, couple, and group therapy modalities. I am quite aware of relational trauma that partners of sex, porn, and relationship addicts experience, and I compassionately work to guide addicted parts through isolating and shame-filled experiences. My role is to help reduce this shame and systematically get to the root of the addictive and compulsive behaviors that have led to intimacy disorder issues.
Michael Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Sometimes it is difficult to find peace in marriage. You want a marriage that is both happy and healthy, but can't seem to get there. You've tried to make things better, to work things out, but can't seem to make any lasting progress. You are searching for solutions that will bring about the peace and joy that you have always wanted in your relationship. The good news is that you and your partner can make changes that will help you to get back on track toward the peace and reconciliation that you both are looking for. Marriage can be happy and healthy.
Sometimes it is difficult to find peace in marriage. You want a marriage that is both happy and healthy, but can't seem to get there. You've tried to make things better, to work things out, but can't seem to make any lasting progress. You are searching for solutions that will bring about the peace and joy that you have always wanted in your relationship. The good news is that you and your partner can make changes that will help you to get back on track toward the peace and reconciliation that you both are looking for. Marriage can be happy and healthy.
See more therapy options for Mission Viejo
Nearby Male Therapists Searches for Mission Viejo
- Aliso Viejo
- Dana Point
- El Toro
- Irvine
- Ladera Ranch
- Laguna Beach
- Laguna Hills
- Laguna Niguel
- Lake Forest
- Rancho Santa Margarita
- San Juan Capistrano
- Trabuco Canyon
Male Therapists
As a man, why might I want to see a male therapist?
There are many reasons a man might wish to work with a male therapist, including a degree of shared identity, which may help client and therapist connect to each other and allow for a more free-flowing discussion of issues that can be deeply personal. Some men may feel more comfortable talking to a male therapist about relationship concerns, the pressures they feel around the roles society and family place on men, career or job challenges, self-esteem, or anger problems. For some men who have not had a male role models in their lives, a good male therapist may be especially helpful.
How can I find out about a therapist’s experience treating men?
Individuals looking for treatment should feel comfortable directly asking a therapist about their history treating men overall and the issues that arise in therapy with men. A good therapist will be happy to discuss such matters as well as their educational background, approach to treatment, and how they think they can aid a prospective client. Prospective clients should also ask what the expectation is for treatment, and what the fee structure is, and whether and which insurance plans are accepted.
Can clients benefit from having a therapist of the same gender?
Therapy is not gender-specific, but some men as well as women feel more comfortable opening up about their experiences and history with a male therapist. An individual may feel that they have to explain less background information and be on the same page more quickly, particularly when discussing gender-specific challenges, in the case of male clients. Some women have prior negative experiences with women that predispose them to prefer working with a male in therapy. That said, a good clinician can transcend most if not all gender concerns. Ultimately, the most important factor in therapy is the connection and trust the client is able to build with the practitioner.
Would a male therapist have specific training in treating men?
Generally, no. There are no certifications for treating men specifically, but there are continuing education classes that therapists may take that focus on treating men as a group. There are many therapists who focus on men and male issues in their treatment and therefore have experience and expertise in this domain.