Psychodynamic Therapists in Westminster, CA
![Photo of Shannon Forbes, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d244ff6-7b2a-4939-ac51-d186ebedd246/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Forbes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, CA 92684
I work from an integrative psychodynamic approach to help you discover ways you have, unknowingly, prevented yourself from getting what you want in life.
Everyone has an inner critic that is demanding, judgmental, and critical of the self. Some have harsher inner critics than others; however, my goal is for my clients to experience less criticism and more curiosity and self-compassion. Self-criticism is debilitating. It can lead to depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, cutting, substance abuse, infidelity and the list goes on. As I work with my clients to develop more self-awareness and self-understanding, they begin to develop more self-compassion and their symptoms begin to dissipate.
I work from an integrative psychodynamic approach to help you discover ways you have, unknowingly, prevented yourself from getting what you want in life.
Everyone has an inner critic that is demanding, judgmental, and critical of the self. Some have harsher inner critics than others; however, my goal is for my clients to experience less criticism and more curiosity and self-compassion. Self-criticism is debilitating. It can lead to depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, cutting, substance abuse, infidelity and the list goes on. As I work with my clients to develop more self-awareness and self-understanding, they begin to develop more self-compassion and their symptoms begin to dissipate.
![Photo of Thang Mike Huynh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b0dc79-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
30 years experiences with Mental Health/Alcohol and Other Drugs/Dual Diagnosis Program. Have contract with Agency approved by Parole/Court to provide psychotherapy to clients who are on parole or probation. Consultant for Pacificare, Blue Shield, Blue Cross, United Health and Orange County Social Services Agency. Certified Sex Offender Treatment Specialist. I also could read, speak and write Vietnamese fluently and considered myself as bi-cultures. My therapy approaches are precise, rapid and focused
30 years experiences with Mental Health/Alcohol and Other Drugs/Dual Diagnosis Program. Have contract with Agency approved by Parole/Court to provide psychotherapy to clients who are on parole or probation. Consultant for Pacificare, Blue Shield, Blue Cross, United Health and Orange County Social Services Agency. Certified Sex Offender Treatment Specialist. I also could read, speak and write Vietnamese fluently and considered myself as bi-cultures. My therapy approaches are precise, rapid and focused
![Photo of Kacey Klein, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2ae38f7-3a07-4ed4-ac80-f8c46873ad58/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be overwhelming for a number of reasons and it's natural to seek help to find clarity and stability. Therapy can help you work through a crisis and better understand your feelings amid struggle. The journey can be hard and very emotional, but it is worth the time and energy you put in. Whether you are in the midst of a crisis or want to understand better what makes you tick, therapy can help. I believe therapy is a team effort. We will work together to assess your unique needs and capacities. By intently listening to your personal stories and practicing self-reflection, we will build upon your strengths.
Life can be overwhelming for a number of reasons and it's natural to seek help to find clarity and stability. Therapy can help you work through a crisis and better understand your feelings amid struggle. The journey can be hard and very emotional, but it is worth the time and energy you put in. Whether you are in the midst of a crisis or want to understand better what makes you tick, therapy can help. I believe therapy is a team effort. We will work together to assess your unique needs and capacities. By intently listening to your personal stories and practicing self-reflection, we will build upon your strengths.
![Photo of Melissa Erb, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb7a83b0-fbf6-414c-abd9-9801c91f1a79/3/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Melissa Erb, and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Diego, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and adolescents specializing in managing anxiety, depression and life changes. I also specialize in the area of adoption and foster care. By using various treatment modalities such as Mindfulness Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, this helps in meeting my clients "where they are at." This also creates an approach for clients to begin at the pace they feel comfortable with.
My name is Melissa Erb, and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Diego, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and adolescents specializing in managing anxiety, depression and life changes. I also specialize in the area of adoption and foster care. By using various treatment modalities such as Mindfulness Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, this helps in meeting my clients "where they are at." This also creates an approach for clients to begin at the pace they feel comfortable with.
![Photo of Kristin Mendelsohn Troy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d19628cd-0df7-436f-85c5-ff4f9acf48af/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Kristin Mendelsohn Troy and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Sherman Oaks, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I received my Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University and conducted post-graduate work at the University of Massachusetts Lowell in Behavior Intervention. I work with adults, teens, and school-age children. I specialize in assisting with anxiety, stress, trauma, families with members with developmental differences, and individuals going through difficult life transitions.
My name is Kristin Mendelsohn Troy and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Sherman Oaks, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I received my Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University and conducted post-graduate work at the University of Massachusetts Lowell in Behavior Intervention. I work with adults, teens, and school-age children. I specialize in assisting with anxiety, stress, trauma, families with members with developmental differences, and individuals going through difficult life transitions.
![Photo of Darryl Nguyen, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3b5fae8-1879-45c7-adfa-4af452ade28b/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client faces anxiety and trauma, often rooted in relationship and family dynamics, and struggles with identity and communication. They seek a safe space to explore their narratives and desire guidance to authentically reshape their life stories. Their goals include overcoming personal challenges, deepening self-understanding, and enhancing relationships through improved communication. They aspire to empowerment, seeking strategies for meaningful change and a fulfilling life. I offer personalized support, focusing on growth, healing, and the power of transformation.
My ideal client faces anxiety and trauma, often rooted in relationship and family dynamics, and struggles with identity and communication. They seek a safe space to explore their narratives and desire guidance to authentically reshape their life stories. Their goals include overcoming personal challenges, deepening self-understanding, and enhancing relationships through improved communication. They aspire to empowerment, seeking strategies for meaningful change and a fulfilling life. I offer personalized support, focusing on growth, healing, and the power of transformation.
![Photo of Manuel Gutierrez-Navarrete, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a75fc1ff-802a-4ad7-85a6-68f07f1088e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Manuel Gutierrez-Navarrete
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westminster, CA 92683
My name is Manuel Gutierrez-Navarrete. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am currently working on earning my Psy.D. in child psychology. I have been working with the community at different levels for over 20 years, and I have a passion for change and moving forward from life experiences. My ideal client is a person who shows up to sessions with the thought that a session is a place of respite where they can evaluate past and current experiences that challenge their growth and affect their daily mood.
My name is Manuel Gutierrez-Navarrete. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am currently working on earning my Psy.D. in child psychology. I have been working with the community at different levels for over 20 years, and I have a passion for change and moving forward from life experiences. My ideal client is a person who shows up to sessions with the thought that a session is a place of respite where they can evaluate past and current experiences that challenge their growth and affect their daily mood.
![Photo of Steven Nelson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1dcaee1-9e78-4b42-9614-f068e8707e2b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Steven Nelson. I am always delighted to be able to help others find their own solutions with life's circumstances. There can always be a positive aspect to a struggle or an unfortunate situation. If you seek, you will find. At times we just need that support to help see it. “If you bring the body the mind will follow.” I specialize in various and multiple theoretical approaches to help with various addiction issues, grief, anxiety, depression, Trauma, and PTSD.
Hello, my name is Steven Nelson. I am always delighted to be able to help others find their own solutions with life's circumstances. There can always be a positive aspect to a struggle or an unfortunate situation. If you seek, you will find. At times we just need that support to help see it. “If you bring the body the mind will follow.” I specialize in various and multiple theoretical approaches to help with various addiction issues, grief, anxiety, depression, Trauma, and PTSD.
![Photo of Lucia Tapia, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39ffc709-f007-462a-be8c-98b3945f81f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Lucia Montiel, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Los Angeles, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents and adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress and trauma, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational-Based therapy, Solution Focused and Trauma Focus Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help my clients make progress and start to feel better so that they can live their life to the best of their potential.
My name is Lucia Montiel, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Los Angeles, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents and adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress and trauma, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational-Based therapy, Solution Focused and Trauma Focus Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help my clients make progress and start to feel better so that they can live their life to the best of their potential.
![Photo of Judith Sorto, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0121c77a-9c87-43e6-bcd2-10d10925435b/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Judith Sorto and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma. I use Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-focused to help clients make positive changes and live a more fulfilling life. My approach is tailored to the needs of each individual. I use Trauma-Focused Cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused to help each individual get through life stressors, identify and reframe negative and unhelpful thoughts, and make positive changes in life.
My name is Judith Sorto and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma. I use Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-focused to help clients make positive changes and live a more fulfilling life. My approach is tailored to the needs of each individual. I use Trauma-Focused Cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused to help each individual get through life stressors, identify and reframe negative and unhelpful thoughts, and make positive changes in life.
![Photo of Margaret J Medhus, MS, LMFT, BC-TMH, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cfb6adf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret J Medhus
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Westminster, CA 92683
**Teletherapy for ALL AZ and CA residents** Office appts in CA. Overwhelmed, scared or deeply hurt? Everyone at times needs guidance to make sense of life choices and improve coping skills. Children, or the child within us, needs to have someone they can trust to make progress forward. Diagnosis and treatment from several theories applied with a multi-technique approach can assist to unlock being stuck emotionally and mentally. Behavior will change reaping rewards of social acceptance and success. Spiritually, we become stronger and in tune. Self esteem can soar. Change is inevitable. Choose your course. Find your real power. Love your child within.
**Teletherapy for ALL AZ and CA residents** Office appts in CA. Overwhelmed, scared or deeply hurt? Everyone at times needs guidance to make sense of life choices and improve coping skills. Children, or the child within us, needs to have someone they can trust to make progress forward. Diagnosis and treatment from several theories applied with a multi-technique approach can assist to unlock being stuck emotionally and mentally. Behavior will change reaping rewards of social acceptance and success. Spiritually, we become stronger and in tune. Self esteem can soar. Change is inevitable. Choose your course. Find your real power. Love your child within.
![Photo of Alison Lynn Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54a96368-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alison Lynn Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Westminster, CA 92683
Cannot find someone who takes your insurance? Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back or there being a schedule conflict? Insightful Matters may be the solution for you. Here, you call one number and you are taken care of. You have access to using your insurance if you wish, a full range of therapists to choose from, days & times, as well as specialities. You can check out our individual profiles here on psychology today and on our website at www.insightfulmatters.com.
Cannot find someone who takes your insurance? Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back or there being a schedule conflict? Insightful Matters may be the solution for you. Here, you call one number and you are taken care of. You have access to using your insurance if you wish, a full range of therapists to choose from, days & times, as well as specialities. You can check out our individual profiles here on psychology today and on our website at www.insightfulmatters.com.
![Photo of Craig D Kain, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fb53674-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Having worked with clients for 20+ years, I understand that the decision to enter into therapy is not one to be taken lightly. I know that when people have questions in their lives, they want answers and they want them as quickly as possible. My goal is to help people -- men and women, straight and gay, young and old -- live fulfiling lives free from stress, depression and anxiety. I work with individuals and couples and have morning, afternoon and evening appointments available. I am also available for online sessions so you can see me from your home or office.
Having worked with clients for 20+ years, I understand that the decision to enter into therapy is not one to be taken lightly. I know that when people have questions in their lives, they want answers and they want them as quickly as possible. My goal is to help people -- men and women, straight and gay, young and old -- live fulfiling lives free from stress, depression and anxiety. I work with individuals and couples and have morning, afternoon and evening appointments available. I am also available for online sessions so you can see me from your home or office.
![Photo of Dr. Debbi R Kooyman, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d18217b7-fba9-4858-8a4a-9d2d080925e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you having difficulty dealing with the effects of having grown up in a dysfunctional home? Do you struggle with feelings of guilt, shame, abandonment, anger, mistrust, and fear? Do you feel flawed and unlovable? Do these feelings make it difficult for you to feel good about yourself and have healthy, fulfilling relationships with others? I want you to know that you are a worthy, lovable person, that help is available to you, and that healing is possible.
Are you having difficulty dealing with the effects of having grown up in a dysfunctional home? Do you struggle with feelings of guilt, shame, abandonment, anger, mistrust, and fear? Do you feel flawed and unlovable? Do these feelings make it difficult for you to feel good about yourself and have healthy, fulfilling relationships with others? I want you to know that you are a worthy, lovable person, that help is available to you, and that healing is possible.
![Photo of Nancy Nguyen, PPSC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6b78be-8269-4448-b8f1-eae85dc465eb/3/320x400.jpeg)
You may be feeling stuck, hopeless, defeated. You may be stuck in a cycle of depression and/or anxiety. You may be questioning your purpose and the path you've been on. You may be struggling with a life transition or a new role. I believe each individual and circumstance is unique, and as such, take great care in my assessments to get to know you. As a trauma therapist, I am sensitive to what you've been through and where you want to go. Along the journey we will discover marked paths and reveal new insights.
You may be feeling stuck, hopeless, defeated. You may be stuck in a cycle of depression and/or anxiety. You may be questioning your purpose and the path you've been on. You may be struggling with a life transition or a new role. I believe each individual and circumstance is unique, and as such, take great care in my assessments to get to know you. As a trauma therapist, I am sensitive to what you've been through and where you want to go. Along the journey we will discover marked paths and reveal new insights.
![Photo of Kelly Steiner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25aec4a9-ee6b-4e43-b673-3177803bf54f/1/320x400.png)
Hi, I'm Kelly Steiner, LMFT 37215, and have been working as a therapist for over 25 years. I provide a safe space to help you in working through some of the things that may be holding you back from finding joy, moving forward, or finding healthy connections. I have worked with all types of clients of all ages with varied reasons they are seeking out treatment. A comforting, safe, non-judgmental place where they feel valued. I recognize how difficult it can be to ask for help from a stranger, so I want to project a warm atmosphere where the session is all about them.
Hi, I'm Kelly Steiner, LMFT 37215, and have been working as a therapist for over 25 years. I provide a safe space to help you in working through some of the things that may be holding you back from finding joy, moving forward, or finding healthy connections. I have worked with all types of clients of all ages with varied reasons they are seeking out treatment. A comforting, safe, non-judgmental place where they feel valued. I recognize how difficult it can be to ask for help from a stranger, so I want to project a warm atmosphere where the session is all about them.
![Photo of Chinicka Khlot, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4eb45603-642d-4460-baca-1677c1aabfc3/1/320x400.png)
My name is Chinicka Khlot. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in various settings, from psychiatric facilities residential care, and outpatient mental health, which has allowed me to develop experience in adequately supporting those to recover from crises and return to fully functioning and maintaining their recovery. I provide a safe space for clients to gain a better understanding of themselves by encouraging them to emotionally process their thoughts and feelings in order to make sense of their experiences by increasing insight and awareness of the impact on their lives.
My name is Chinicka Khlot. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in various settings, from psychiatric facilities residential care, and outpatient mental health, which has allowed me to develop experience in adequately supporting those to recover from crises and return to fully functioning and maintaining their recovery. I provide a safe space for clients to gain a better understanding of themselves by encouraging them to emotionally process their thoughts and feelings in order to make sense of their experiences by increasing insight and awareness of the impact on their lives.
![Photo of Christophe Ngo, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ecb60eb-b92b-47a6-808a-bbaabc42c714/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christophe Ngo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Westminster, CA 92683
You’ve spent years trying to make life make sense and to find where you fit in the world always feeling like an outsider, different from your family, or that you don’t belong. You bounce around from one hobby, friend group, or idea to another. Perhaps, your identity feels like it’s been chosen for you, and you’re ready to break free from expectations. Maybe you were praised your whole life for being a team player or high achiever in school or work, but the cost of that very thing has you full of stress and anxiety at home with partners, loved ones, and friends—seeking out external validation for shit you don’t really care about.
You’ve spent years trying to make life make sense and to find where you fit in the world always feeling like an outsider, different from your family, or that you don’t belong. You bounce around from one hobby, friend group, or idea to another. Perhaps, your identity feels like it’s been chosen for you, and you’re ready to break free from expectations. Maybe you were praised your whole life for being a team player or high achiever in school or work, but the cost of that very thing has you full of stress and anxiety at home with partners, loved ones, and friends—seeking out external validation for shit you don’t really care about.
![Photo of Athena Vu Dao, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95878725-af22-489c-b270-857ec3020cd5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Athena Vu Dao
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Westminster, CA 92683 (Online Only)
I believe that every aspect of life, whether joyful or painful, carries profound meaning. In moments when it feels impossible to understand why things happen, I'll be there with you, patiently guiding you through.
I believe that every aspect of life, whether joyful or painful, carries profound meaning. In moments when it feels impossible to understand why things happen, I'll be there with you, patiently guiding you through.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Jessica Ripley, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aef31ffc-5523-47f7-abd4-27f44ea6fd41/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach is a unique blend of modalities including Experiential, Humanistic, IFS, CBT, and Psychodynamic techniques.
My goal is to help my clients break free from pain and embark on a journey towards personal growth. I know how it feels to be stuck in pain, and I know how amazing and life changing it feels to find a way out. I believe that this process is what builds beautiful, strong resilient people. My mission is to guide individuals like you along this path of self-discovery and resilience-building. I believe that this journey involves two key steps. First, we must process and heal from past pain. Then we can embark on an exploration of creativity, nature, spirituality, connection and pursuing your personal values and passions.
My approach is a unique blend of modalities including Experiential, Humanistic, IFS, CBT, and Psychodynamic techniques.
My goal is to help my clients break free from pain and embark on a journey towards personal growth. I know how it feels to be stuck in pain, and I know how amazing and life changing it feels to find a way out. I believe that this process is what builds beautiful, strong resilient people. My mission is to guide individuals like you along this path of self-discovery and resilience-building. I believe that this journey involves two key steps. First, we must process and heal from past pain. Then we can embark on an exploration of creativity, nature, spirituality, connection and pursuing your personal values and passions.
See more therapy options for Westminster
Nearby Psychodynamic Therapists Searches for Westminster
- Anaheim
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- Garden Grove
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- Los Alamitos
- Rossmoor
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- Seal Beach
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Psychodynamic Therapists
Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?
Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.
How long does psychodynamic therapy last?
Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.
Does psychodynamic therapy work?
Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.
What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?
Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.