Transgender Therapists in Santa Ana, CA
Affirming Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92704
Therapists at Affirming Psychological Services have various subspecialties, such as transgender care, trauma treatment, and neurodivergent affirming care.
The clinicians at Affirming Psychological Services are highly experienced in treating trauma, anxiety, and depression. All of our clinicians are also trained in treating the needs of the LGBT+ community, and many of our clinicians have lived experience as part of this community. We are conveniently located in Irvine, CA, and can provide both in person and telehealth services for you and your loved ones. We provide individual, couples, and family therapy as well as psychological testing and diagnostic clarification services. We provide a safe, comforting environment and expert therapists to help you meet your therapeutic goals.
Therapists at Affirming Psychological Services have various subspecialties, such as transgender care, trauma treatment, and neurodivergent affirming care.
The clinicians at Affirming Psychological Services are highly experienced in treating trauma, anxiety, and depression. All of our clinicians are also trained in treating the needs of the LGBT+ community, and many of our clinicians have lived experience as part of this community. We are conveniently located in Irvine, CA, and can provide both in person and telehealth services for you and your loved ones. We provide individual, couples, and family therapy as well as psychological testing and diagnostic clarification services. We provide a safe, comforting environment and expert therapists to help you meet your therapeutic goals.
Renee Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92701 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
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.
Hello, I'm Michael F. Stample, PhD, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I work extensively with individual adults, couples and families. My primary expertise is in mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, dual diagnosis, LGBTQ+ and transgender healthcare. I mostly work with adults over age 17 or 18, through the later years. While psychiatric diagnoses have their uses, I prefer to see my clients as dealing with "problems of living." I work comfortably with psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and other evidence-based therapies. My early training included internship at the Jung Institute of Los Angeles.
Hello, I'm Michael F. Stample, PhD, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I work extensively with individual adults, couples and families. My primary expertise is in mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, dual diagnosis, LGBTQ+ and transgender healthcare. I mostly work with adults over age 17 or 18, through the later years. While psychiatric diagnoses have their uses, I prefer to see my clients as dealing with "problems of living." I work comfortably with psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and other evidence-based therapies. My early training included internship at the Jung Institute of Los Angeles.
Chris 'alder' Johnson
Psychological Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92704 (Online Only)
Alder has worked in the field of psychology since 2018, when they began providing mental health services to children and youth diagnosed with autism. Alder received their master’s degree in Psychology from Purdue University Global and has extensive experience working with neurodivergent clients. Alder is working to obtain their Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Chris is supervised by Dr. Bahareh Talei (PSY 21252). Alder believes in living life as their most authentic self and brings this authenticity into the therapeutic experience.
Alder has worked in the field of psychology since 2018, when they began providing mental health services to children and youth diagnosed with autism. Alder received their master’s degree in Psychology from Purdue University Global and has extensive experience working with neurodivergent clients. Alder is working to obtain their Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Chris is supervised by Dr. Bahareh Talei (PSY 21252). Alder believes in living life as their most authentic self and brings this authenticity into the therapeutic experience.
Therapy should be client-focused & should occur in an atmosphere of warmth & safety. My style is caring, creative and non-judgmental. A trusting relationship between client and therapist is essential for successful outcomes in therapy. Through this relationship, clients can explore the emotional challenges that they are facing. With the help of an empathic therapist, one can begin to gain awareness of unconscious emotional patterns, feelings & beliefs. Through the processing of this unconscious material, old wounds can be healed and the client can gain insight that equips them to create a life that is more satisfying and meaningful.
Therapy should be client-focused & should occur in an atmosphere of warmth & safety. My style is caring, creative and non-judgmental. A trusting relationship between client and therapist is essential for successful outcomes in therapy. Through this relationship, clients can explore the emotional challenges that they are facing. With the help of an empathic therapist, one can begin to gain awareness of unconscious emotional patterns, feelings & beliefs. Through the processing of this unconscious material, old wounds can be healed and the client can gain insight that equips them to create a life that is more satisfying and meaningful.
Bridges Therapy Group of CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92705 (Online Only)
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges or simply seeking personal growth, our dedicated team of over 50 experienced and compassionate mental health professionals is here to guide and support you on your path toward healing and happiness. Our practice uses a fully virtual model to offer affordable, accessible and effective mental health care for individuals across the state of California.
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges or simply seeking personal growth, our dedicated team of over 50 experienced and compassionate mental health professionals is here to guide and support you on your path toward healing and happiness. Our practice uses a fully virtual model to offer affordable, accessible and effective mental health care for individuals across the state of California.
Gather and Grow OC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Gather and Grow OC is excited to serve the mental health needs (and support mental health flourishing) in the Orange County area! We believe in community and seek to create a healthier place to live alongside offering a healthier place to heal. We're looking to work with clients who are ready to step up, dive deep and do the work of finding their happiest and most authentic selves in supportive therapeutic relationships. At Gather and Grow OC you'll find clear and quick communication, a safe space to do the work and a team of clinicians ready to meet you where you are!
Gather and Grow OC is excited to serve the mental health needs (and support mental health flourishing) in the Orange County area! We believe in community and seek to create a healthier place to live alongside offering a healthier place to heal. We're looking to work with clients who are ready to step up, dive deep and do the work of finding their happiest and most authentic selves in supportive therapeutic relationships. At Gather and Grow OC you'll find clear and quick communication, a safe space to do the work and a team of clinicians ready to meet you where you are!
Brittany Ahern Nwachie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701 (Online Only)
Oftentimes we can get pulled into and swept away by our intense emotions, self-defeating thought patterns and our painful experiences and memories. Sometimes we have to wear so many masks that it becomes challenging to know who really is under those masks. Other times we just feel…stuck. Clients that enjoy working with me are wanting to get to know themselves more, learn ways to cope with the chaos of their internal and external experiences, and learn to live a meaningful and full life. It can be scary to admit we want these things, but there may be a part of you that resonates with these statements.
Oftentimes we can get pulled into and swept away by our intense emotions, self-defeating thought patterns and our painful experiences and memories. Sometimes we have to wear so many masks that it becomes challenging to know who really is under those masks. Other times we just feel…stuck. Clients that enjoy working with me are wanting to get to know themselves more, learn ways to cope with the chaos of their internal and external experiences, and learn to live a meaningful and full life. It can be scary to admit we want these things, but there may be a part of you that resonates with these statements.
Welcome "To Your Journey of Self or Couple Empowerment-Enhancing Your Inner Self!" I work with both individuals and couples who identify as either Heterosexual or LGBTQ+; I specialize working to create and maintain a loving, respectful and thriving relationship with themselves or a partner relationship. My goal is to assist my clients to problem solve their various life issues, such as low self-esteem, career stressors and relationship choices through these strategies: improving communication, intimacy building, managing conflicts, reducing stress, and strengthening parenting and co-parenting skills.
Welcome "To Your Journey of Self or Couple Empowerment-Enhancing Your Inner Self!" I work with both individuals and couples who identify as either Heterosexual or LGBTQ+; I specialize working to create and maintain a loving, respectful and thriving relationship with themselves or a partner relationship. My goal is to assist my clients to problem solve their various life issues, such as low self-esteem, career stressors and relationship choices through these strategies: improving communication, intimacy building, managing conflicts, reducing stress, and strengthening parenting and co-parenting skills.
Robert Donaldson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92703 (Online Only)
Each person’s journey into therapy is a unique act of courage. I am a California-licensed marriage and family therapist and saw my first therapy client in 2004. I work with individuals in various stages of life and career transitions, stressed college students, people dealing with LGBT, gender identity, and coming out issues, creative writers and artists, and successful professionals overwhelmed with a busy life. With the right practical psychological tools, it's possible to bring a sense of enjoyment back into the routines of daily life. It's not always easy, but it is possible.
Each person’s journey into therapy is a unique act of courage. I am a California-licensed marriage and family therapist and saw my first therapy client in 2004. I work with individuals in various stages of life and career transitions, stressed college students, people dealing with LGBT, gender identity, and coming out issues, creative writers and artists, and successful professionals overwhelmed with a busy life. With the right practical psychological tools, it's possible to bring a sense of enjoyment back into the routines of daily life. It's not always easy, but it is possible.
I enjoy helping men & women who are stressed or stuck to explore their dreams. We will discover and practice the tools to give you a more rewarding and fulfilling life. I specialize in couples counseling with my husband/partner, Bob Simpson. I also work with addictions including gambling and eating disorders as well as with generalized anxiety, OCD and depression. Together we can find the keys to life balance and happiness. I hope to have fun with my clients as together we find their joy and fulfillment. Call me and let's talk and see if I can be of help to you!
I enjoy helping men & women who are stressed or stuck to explore their dreams. We will discover and practice the tools to give you a more rewarding and fulfilling life. I specialize in couples counseling with my husband/partner, Bob Simpson. I also work with addictions including gambling and eating disorders as well as with generalized anxiety, OCD and depression. Together we can find the keys to life balance and happiness. I hope to have fun with my clients as together we find their joy and fulfillment. Call me and let's talk and see if I can be of help to you!
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I have 10 years of experience working with individuals and families that struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, anger management, grief and loss, ADHD, behavioral issues, life transitions, communication issues, family conflict, parenting issues, marital/premarital issues, low self-esteem, substance abuse and trauma.
I have 10 years of experience working with individuals and families that struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, anger management, grief and loss, ADHD, behavioral issues, life transitions, communication issues, family conflict, parenting issues, marital/premarital issues, low self-esteem, substance abuse and trauma.
Carly Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92705 (Online Only)
I liken my approach to talking to a trusted friend with a professional edge. I am assertive and kind, and my goal is to listen and provide constructive feedback that you're ready to accept. I work best with adolescents and adults and have experience with all types of mental health diagnoses. The issues I address on a virtual platform include Autism, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, relationship challenges, self-esteem, codependency, parenting, and more. For those who have tried traditional approaches like medication and therapy and still feel stuck, I offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) as an alternative path toward relief.
I liken my approach to talking to a trusted friend with a professional edge. I am assertive and kind, and my goal is to listen and provide constructive feedback that you're ready to accept. I work best with adolescents and adults and have experience with all types of mental health diagnoses. The issues I address on a virtual platform include Autism, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, relationship challenges, self-esteem, codependency, parenting, and more. For those who have tried traditional approaches like medication and therapy and still feel stuck, I offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) as an alternative path toward relief.
Taking the first step toward improving one's mental health is the most difficult. Individuals suffering from trauma, anxiety and depression need the support of a professional who can help guide them through the uncertainties of life. I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process that promotes growth and the potential for success. I believe that with the right support, individuals can go on to live fulfilling lives.
Taking the first step toward improving one's mental health is the most difficult. Individuals suffering from trauma, anxiety and depression need the support of a professional who can help guide them through the uncertainties of life. I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process that promotes growth and the potential for success. I believe that with the right support, individuals can go on to live fulfilling lives.
Jordyn Dugan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92701 (Online Only)
I believe that you are the expert of your own experience. Everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and supported in their journey towards self-discovery and acceptance. I am deeply honored to walk alongside my clients as they navigate the complexities of self-discovery, healing, and growth. Together, we can embark on a journey towards self-acceptance, authenticity, and resilience. I help adults, adolescents, and children with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, trauma, low self-esteem, ADHD/ADD, and gender-questioning issues from a person-centered approach.
I believe that you are the expert of your own experience. Everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and supported in their journey towards self-discovery and acceptance. I am deeply honored to walk alongside my clients as they navigate the complexities of self-discovery, healing, and growth. Together, we can embark on a journey towards self-acceptance, authenticity, and resilience. I help adults, adolescents, and children with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, trauma, low self-esteem, ADHD/ADD, and gender-questioning issues from a person-centered approach.
I worked with broad range of clients- kids, individuals, couples. I have been supervising several addiction and dual diagnosis clinics. I treated successfully hundreds of patients and helped to find best solution to the most difficult situation or problem my patients faced. I help my patients to rebuild relationships based on honesty, understanding, forgiveness, and trust. I teach coping skills to regulate your impulses, emotions, increase your sense of personal identity , improve your judgment, reduce the sense of crisis in your life and find healthy solutions. I offer Neurofeedback training that helps to enhance physical, mental performance, improves memories.
I worked with broad range of clients- kids, individuals, couples. I have been supervising several addiction and dual diagnosis clinics. I treated successfully hundreds of patients and helped to find best solution to the most difficult situation or problem my patients faced. I help my patients to rebuild relationships based on honesty, understanding, forgiveness, and trust. I teach coping skills to regulate your impulses, emotions, increase your sense of personal identity , improve your judgment, reduce the sense of crisis in your life and find healthy solutions. I offer Neurofeedback training that helps to enhance physical, mental performance, improves memories.
My main focus is to provide my clients with a supportive atmosphere that allows them to focus on exploring and processing their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in an effort to improve their emotional and physical well-being. I integrate a client-centered treatment approach with mindfulness, attachment theory, and Interpersonal Neurobiology. I work with my clients as they heal from trauma, anxiety, relationship issues, and depression. I currently treat adolescents, ages 12 and up, young adults, adults, and couples.
My main focus is to provide my clients with a supportive atmosphere that allows them to focus on exploring and processing their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in an effort to improve their emotional and physical well-being. I integrate a client-centered treatment approach with mindfulness, attachment theory, and Interpersonal Neurobiology. I work with my clients as they heal from trauma, anxiety, relationship issues, and depression. I currently treat adolescents, ages 12 and up, young adults, adults, and couples.
My name is Laura Melendez and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) based in Carlsbad, CA, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals, teens, and children/parenting. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness when working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem struggles, and parent coaching to help my clients meet their goals. Each individual is unique, therefore I get to know my client and based on their need I will match them with the best therapeutic approach. I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness.
My name is Laura Melendez and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) based in Carlsbad, CA, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals, teens, and children/parenting. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness when working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem struggles, and parent coaching to help my clients meet their goals. Each individual is unique, therefore I get to know my client and based on their need I will match them with the best therapeutic approach. I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness.
Peace of Mind Wellness & Family Counseling, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Ana, CA 92705
Our passion lies in storytelling – narratives of those who embrace life one day at a time. With experience in numerous clinical settings, working with individuals of all ages, we pride myself on providing a warm and therapeutic environment for my clients. During tumultuous times, when stressors mount, allow us to offer a listening ear and a supportive hands. Our ultimate goal is to empower clients to discover their inner superhero and realize their distinctive aspirations.
Our passion lies in storytelling – narratives of those who embrace life one day at a time. With experience in numerous clinical settings, working with individuals of all ages, we pride myself on providing a warm and therapeutic environment for my clients. During tumultuous times, when stressors mount, allow us to offer a listening ear and a supportive hands. Our ultimate goal is to empower clients to discover their inner superhero and realize their distinctive aspirations.
Yessenia Torres
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92703 (Online Only)
Bienvenidxs! I am a Mexican-American, bilingual, queer therapist, dedicated to empowering individuals to embrace their authenticity and heal from within. I create a safe and inclusive space for my clients to explore their depths and discover their inner resilience. My approach blends holistic therapeutic techniques honoring the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. My tailored strategies, integrate your interests with evidence-based practices. I have completed certifications in EFT and ADHD. If you’re ready to be challenged, let's embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth.
Bienvenidxs! I am a Mexican-American, bilingual, queer therapist, dedicated to empowering individuals to embrace their authenticity and heal from within. I create a safe and inclusive space for my clients to explore their depths and discover their inner resilience. My approach blends holistic therapeutic techniques honoring the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. My tailored strategies, integrate your interests with evidence-based practices. I have completed certifications in EFT and ADHD. If you’re ready to be challenged, let's embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth.
See more therapy options for Santa Ana
Nearby Transgender Therapists Searches for Santa Ana
- Anaheim
- Anaheim Hills
- Costa Mesa
- Fountain Valley
- Garden Grove
- Huntington Beach
- Irvine
- Newport Beach
- Orange
- Tustin
- Villa Park
- Westminster
Transgender Therapists
As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?
A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.
What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?
Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.
How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?
An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?
Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.