Female Therapists in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

Photo of Melissa Berschauer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Berschauer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
Anxiety, Depression and Relationships: These are my top three specialties because when you think about it, most other issues have one of these at the root. The clients I work with come from all walks of life, each bringing their own unique set of experiences and needs. I love working with individuals and couples who are open to working as a team, enjoy a good sense of humor, and are open minded about the work we are doing together. I believe that these components are important aspects of what makes our therapeutic relationship successful, so I ensure I bring them into every session and encourage my clients to do the same!
Anxiety, Depression and Relationships: These are my top three specialties because when you think about it, most other issues have one of these at the root. The clients I work with come from all walks of life, each bringing their own unique set of experiences and needs. I love working with individuals and couples who are open to working as a team, enjoy a good sense of humor, and are open minded about the work we are doing together. I believe that these components are important aspects of what makes our therapeutic relationship successful, so I ensure I bring them into every session and encourage my clients to do the same!
(949) 613-0899 View (949) 613-0899
Photo of Brooke Rawls, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brooke Rawls
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688  (Online Only)
Therapy can be a vulnerable space to enter and I am here to cheer you on along the way. I’ll provide a warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental space to support your mental health journey. During sessions, I’ll seek to help you better understand the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are keeping you stuck and preventing you from reaching your goals. I tailor my approach according to the unique needs of my clientele while remaining sensitive to their personal stories. I hope to embark on this adventure with you and be a grounding resource for taking steps toward living the life you want to live.
Therapy can be a vulnerable space to enter and I am here to cheer you on along the way. I’ll provide a warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental space to support your mental health journey. During sessions, I’ll seek to help you better understand the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are keeping you stuck and preventing you from reaching your goals. I tailor my approach according to the unique needs of my clientele while remaining sensitive to their personal stories. I hope to embark on this adventure with you and be a grounding resource for taking steps toward living the life you want to live.
(949) 881-6349 View (949) 881-6349
Photo of Michelle Funez Arteaga, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Funez Arteaga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the field of psychology. I enjoy working with people who are unsure about therapy as well as those experienced and enthusiastic. I specialize in helping you feel comfortable talking about the core issues that might be underlying the reasons for seeking therapy at a no-pressure pace.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the field of psychology. I enjoy working with people who are unsure about therapy as well as those experienced and enthusiastic. I specialize in helping you feel comfortable talking about the core issues that might be underlying the reasons for seeking therapy at a no-pressure pace.
(510) 990-9759 View (510) 990-9759
Photo of Jacquelin Tejeda, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacquelin Tejeda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
My name is Jacquelin Tejeda and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California and have experience working with children, youth, adults, and families. I have been in the mental health field for 15 years. I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, phases of life issues, and more. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. My Experience and training entail evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused, and Mindfulness.
My name is Jacquelin Tejeda and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California and have experience working with children, youth, adults, and families. I have been in the mental health field for 15 years. I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, phases of life issues, and more. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. My Experience and training entail evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused, and Mindfulness.
(949) 828-1576 View (949) 828-1576
Photo of Gina Cordato, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina Cordato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
Hello! My name is Gina Cordato. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy to individuals facing various challenges. With a client-centered approach, I create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in the power of collaboration and work closely with each client to tailor treatment plans to their unique needs and goals. Whether you're navigating life transitions, struggling with mental health issues, or seeking personal growth, I am here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
Hello! My name is Gina Cordato. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy to individuals facing various challenges. With a client-centered approach, I create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in the power of collaboration and work closely with each client to tailor treatment plans to their unique needs and goals. Whether you're navigating life transitions, struggling with mental health issues, or seeking personal growth, I am here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
(949) 978-0150 View (949) 978-0150
Photo of Anne San Juan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anne San Juan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688  (Online Only)
Life events are like pieces of a puzzle that create the picture of where you are today. I have worked with women who left abusive relationships for the safety of a shelter to addicts/ alcoholics looking toward the path of recovery and now with mentally ill clients who seek a normal. I work on relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, addiction, abuse, trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, and codependency. I am a straightforward, caring, intuitively connected therapist that gets to your core issues to help you better understand how you got to where you are, how you can get unstuck, and how to move forward.
Life events are like pieces of a puzzle that create the picture of where you are today. I have worked with women who left abusive relationships for the safety of a shelter to addicts/ alcoholics looking toward the path of recovery and now with mentally ill clients who seek a normal. I work on relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, addiction, abuse, trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, and codependency. I am a straightforward, caring, intuitively connected therapist that gets to your core issues to help you better understand how you got to where you are, how you can get unstuck, and how to move forward.
(949) 247-8313 View (949) 247-8313
Photo of Michelle Hackett, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Hackett
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688  (Online Only)
Authenticity and honesty are critical to the healing journey. I am a client-centered, solution focused therapist who subscribes to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I use these treatment modalities/ideologies as a means to assisting my clients to explore where they are currently, where they would like to be, and take the necessary steps to get there. This allows my clients to witness their own growth and take ownership in their journey toward the best version of themselves. I look forward to working with you and for you!
Authenticity and honesty are critical to the healing journey. I am a client-centered, solution focused therapist who subscribes to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I use these treatment modalities/ideologies as a means to assisting my clients to explore where they are currently, where they would like to be, and take the necessary steps to get there. This allows my clients to witness their own growth and take ownership in their journey toward the best version of themselves. I look forward to working with you and for you!
(310) 564-7291 View (310) 564-7291
Photo of Stephanie Magana, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Magana
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688  (Online Only)
In all seasons of life, we experience obstacles between where we are and where we'd like to be. These obstacles can often present themselves in the form of anxiety, depression, a lack of self-confidence, relational issues, or unresolved trauma/grief, etc. I work with individuals in a collaborative process to explore these obstacles, challenge old patterns and beliefs, and find new ways of thinking and living. It is my hope that therapy is a positive journey for every individual and that starts with finding the right therapist. My approach is very relational, interactive, and direct.
In all seasons of life, we experience obstacles between where we are and where we'd like to be. These obstacles can often present themselves in the form of anxiety, depression, a lack of self-confidence, relational issues, or unresolved trauma/grief, etc. I work with individuals in a collaborative process to explore these obstacles, challenge old patterns and beliefs, and find new ways of thinking and living. It is my hope that therapy is a positive journey for every individual and that starts with finding the right therapist. My approach is very relational, interactive, and direct.
(949) 373-3803 View (949) 373-3803
Photo of Lynda G Helfend, PhD, Psychologist
Lynda G Helfend
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688  (Online Only)
It is difficult to make the decision to seek help, and the prospect of finding a psychologist with whom you feel comfortable can be daunting. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and my goal is to work with you in order to fully identify and understand your concerns. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Having worked in a variety of settings including the National Asthma center and a large urban general hospital I am skilled at tailoring therapy sessions to the needs of each client.
It is difficult to make the decision to seek help, and the prospect of finding a psychologist with whom you feel comfortable can be daunting. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and my goal is to work with you in order to fully identify and understand your concerns. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Having worked in a variety of settings including the National Asthma center and a large urban general hospital I am skilled at tailoring therapy sessions to the needs of each client.
(949) 391-4145 View (949) 391-4145
Photo of Jennifer D Rowe, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer D Rowe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
Hi there! I know that finding the right therapist can be challenging, especially when things may already feel overwhelming and you've been doing your best to keep your head above water. Life gets busy, relationships get strained, and it can be tough to juggle all of the different hats you wear. I believe that everyone has strengths and my goal is to empower you to work through barriers that may lead you to be feeling stuck. I provide a safe, nurturing environment where we can work together to reduce your emotional pain from childhood, adulthood or from traumatic events. I am compassionate, non-judgmental and a therapist who cares!
Hi there! I know that finding the right therapist can be challenging, especially when things may already feel overwhelming and you've been doing your best to keep your head above water. Life gets busy, relationships get strained, and it can be tough to juggle all of the different hats you wear. I believe that everyone has strengths and my goal is to empower you to work through barriers that may lead you to be feeling stuck. I provide a safe, nurturing environment where we can work together to reduce your emotional pain from childhood, adulthood or from traumatic events. I am compassionate, non-judgmental and a therapist who cares!
(949) 835-4891 View (949) 835-4891
Photo of Mya Little, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mya Little
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
Hi there, I'm Mya! A Healthy Outside Starts from the Inside. My specialty is relationships. Not just the relationships you have with those around you, but the relationship you have with yourself. Life should not be a struggle; it should be an adventure you enjoy. Therapy can help you whether you are trapped in a routine that's no longer serving you, facing a new difficulty, or simply seeking to improve the general quality of your life. Dr. Little has years of experience working with athletes and people in high-stakes professions to improve performance and eliminate performance barriers by reducing stress.
Hi there, I'm Mya! A Healthy Outside Starts from the Inside. My specialty is relationships. Not just the relationships you have with those around you, but the relationship you have with yourself. Life should not be a struggle; it should be an adventure you enjoy. Therapy can help you whether you are trapped in a routine that's no longer serving you, facing a new difficulty, or simply seeking to improve the general quality of your life. Dr. Little has years of experience working with athletes and people in high-stakes professions to improve performance and eliminate performance barriers by reducing stress.
(949) 776-5324 View (949) 776-5324
Photo of Erika Ciriano Chavez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika Ciriano Chavez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
My name is Erika Ciriano and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I specialize in utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am dedicated to helping clients navigate and overcome challenges and promoting positive change and emotional well-being. I specialize in working with both teens and adults, providing tailored therapeutic support for a diverse range of needs including addressing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma. I also find I'm a good fit and a source of support for clients going through life transitions and stressors.
My name is Erika Ciriano and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I specialize in utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am dedicated to helping clients navigate and overcome challenges and promoting positive change and emotional well-being. I specialize in working with both teens and adults, providing tailored therapeutic support for a diverse range of needs including addressing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma. I also find I'm a good fit and a source of support for clients going through life transitions and stressors.
(949) 694-1465 View (949) 694-1465
Photo of Talah Moaddab, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Talah Moaddab
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688  (Online Only)
Do you feel anxious, alone, stuck, or disconnected in your life? Has something bad happened to you in the past and it seems to be controlling how you feel and interact with others in your life today? Often times when trauma occurs, it gets locked in our body and we learn to live through life functioning from a set of beliefs and behaviors. These beliefs and behaviors may not be serving you well and may actually be causing disruptions towards a happier self.
Do you feel anxious, alone, stuck, or disconnected in your life? Has something bad happened to you in the past and it seems to be controlling how you feel and interact with others in your life today? Often times when trauma occurs, it gets locked in our body and we learn to live through life functioning from a set of beliefs and behaviors. These beliefs and behaviors may not be serving you well and may actually be causing disruptions towards a happier self.
(949) 828-2093 View (949) 828-2093
Photo of Melissa Willard, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Willard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688  (Online Only)
I understand the dynamics of toxic and narcissistic relationships, which is essential to breaking free from the chains you may feel while in these relationships. I can help you make sense of depression, anxiety, and negative thought patterns. I value working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, first responders, and law enforcement. I use a direct and active approach.
I understand the dynamics of toxic and narcissistic relationships, which is essential to breaking free from the chains you may feel while in these relationships. I can help you make sense of depression, anxiety, and negative thought patterns. I value working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, first responders, and law enforcement. I use a direct and active approach.
(949) 832-7226 View (949) 832-7226
Photo of Caroline Hanna, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caroline Hanna
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688  (Online Only)
Hey there! I am Caroline. How many times have you found yourself seeking purpose? It may feel as if you are disconnected or lost. Sometimes we have trouble setting boundaries in relationships. Life can often feel overwhelming and isolating. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, loneliness, unresolved trauma and/or relationship troubles, you don't have to do this journey alone. Together, we can navigate through challenging and uncomfortable roads in order to discover the meaningful path you wish to be on. I will walk alongside you to identify your values, strengths, and preferences in a collaborative and empowering way.
Hey there! I am Caroline. How many times have you found yourself seeking purpose? It may feel as if you are disconnected or lost. Sometimes we have trouble setting boundaries in relationships. Life can often feel overwhelming and isolating. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, loneliness, unresolved trauma and/or relationship troubles, you don't have to do this journey alone. Together, we can navigate through challenging and uncomfortable roads in order to discover the meaningful path you wish to be on. I will walk alongside you to identify your values, strengths, and preferences in a collaborative and empowering way.
(714) 599-8083 View (714) 599-8083
Photo of Alicia Marie Hutton, MS, LMFT, ACRPS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alicia Marie Hutton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, ACRPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688  (Online Only)
I'm dedicated to providing mental health support through a neurodiversity-affirming & trauma-informed lens. My practice is grounded in providing compassionate, evidence-based therapy for neurodivergent adults, as well as those struggling with C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, & substance use. I utilize attachment theory, psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, & dialectical behavior therapy to tailor my approach to the unique needs of each individual. My commitment to client-centered, neurodiversity-affirming care ensures that all individuals are supported in a manner that respects their cognitive & emotional experiences.
I'm dedicated to providing mental health support through a neurodiversity-affirming & trauma-informed lens. My practice is grounded in providing compassionate, evidence-based therapy for neurodivergent adults, as well as those struggling with C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, & substance use. I utilize attachment theory, psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, & dialectical behavior therapy to tailor my approach to the unique needs of each individual. My commitment to client-centered, neurodiversity-affirming care ensures that all individuals are supported in a manner that respects their cognitive & emotional experiences.
(949) 782-7372 View (949) 782-7372
Photo of Carolyn Levitan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn Levitan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688  (Online Only)
I have a high level of expertise working with people experiencing daily stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions and relationship difficulties. I specialize in working with young adults and utilize many Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused approaches. Therapy does not need to be scary nor dull. My clients would say I come across as competent and compassionate. No one deserves to do life alone. I look forward to being on your team and tackling challenges together one step at a time.
I have a high level of expertise working with people experiencing daily stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions and relationship difficulties. I specialize in working with young adults and utilize many Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused approaches. Therapy does not need to be scary nor dull. My clients would say I come across as competent and compassionate. No one deserves to do life alone. I look forward to being on your team and tackling challenges together one step at a time.
(424) 392-6969 View (424) 392-6969
Photo of Ashley Burrell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Burrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
As a Black Woman in mental health, I understand the importance of meeting clients where they are by creating a safe place where they can be vulnerable and feel supported.
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I provide individual therapy to adults who are having a hard time managing their day-to-day life due to anxiety, depression, and trauma. With the various labels and stigmas attached to mental health, you should first give yourself grace as you’ve started or maybe continue your journey to show up as your best self. As a strength-based and solution-focused clinician, it brings me great pleasure when my clients can navigate through their mental health challenges and utilize their mental health toolbox to show up as their authentic selves.
As a Black Woman in mental health, I understand the importance of meeting clients where they are by creating a safe place where they can be vulnerable and feel supported.
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I provide individual therapy to adults who are having a hard time managing their day-to-day life due to anxiety, depression, and trauma. With the various labels and stigmas attached to mental health, you should first give yourself grace as you’ve started or maybe continue your journey to show up as your best self. As a strength-based and solution-focused clinician, it brings me great pleasure when my clients can navigate through their mental health challenges and utilize their mental health toolbox to show up as their authentic selves.
(949) 832-7032 View (949) 832-7032
Photo of Dr. Farnush Farmand, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Farnush Farmand
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688  (Online Only)
For many of us, the challenges we face in our daily lives can be overwhelming, no matter what form they take. We find ourselves repeating the same unhealthy patterns, yet struggle to understand why. After a while we begin to lose trust in our judgement and grow distant from our intuition, finding it difficult to identify our own guiding voice. So we learn to cope through any means possible, which often emulate ways we have learned to protect ourselves. We find ways to run from the pain and our internal shame through substance use, unhealthy relationships, and other self-destructive behaviors.
For many of us, the challenges we face in our daily lives can be overwhelming, no matter what form they take. We find ourselves repeating the same unhealthy patterns, yet struggle to understand why. After a while we begin to lose trust in our judgement and grow distant from our intuition, finding it difficult to identify our own guiding voice. So we learn to cope through any means possible, which often emulate ways we have learned to protect ourselves. We find ways to run from the pain and our internal shame through substance use, unhealthy relationships, and other self-destructive behaviors.
(626) 240-5929 View (626) 240-5929
Photo of Katherine Dawn Barton, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine Dawn Barton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688  (Online Only)
Welcome! Ready to transform your life and relationships? I’m Katherine, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, dedicated to helping you achieve meaningful, lasting change. With extensive expertise in guiding individuals and couples through emotional and relational challenges, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Let’s embark on this journey together to create the life and connections you deserve.
Welcome! Ready to transform your life and relationships? I’m Katherine, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, dedicated to helping you achieve meaningful, lasting change. With extensive expertise in guiding individuals and couples through emotional and relational challenges, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Let’s embark on this journey together to create the life and connections you deserve.
(714) 710-1867 View (714) 710-1867
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Female Therapists

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, this is not an important factor, as there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or ingrained beliefs about how people of different genders think and behave. Exploring the roots of such preferences and considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender truly matters to them.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist, either because they believe that a woman will be able to relate to their specific challenges (for example, sexism in the workplace) or because they imagine feeling more comfortable disclosing sensitive information to a woman. Such beliefs may not turn out to be accurate, however, and adhering too rigidly to a gender preference can at times hinder a client from finding the best therapeutic match.

Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?

Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists—both men and women—may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?

It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.