In Fountain Valley, CA, residents seeking mental health support can connect with local professionals who offer a range of therapeutic services. People in Fountain Valley find therapists online or in person to receive trauma-informed care, cognitive behavioral approaches, and motivational interviewing, all aimed at helping individuals navigate personal challenges and family conflict.
Therapists in Fountain Valley adopt a holistic approach to treatment, ensuring that all aspects of a person's life are considered in the healing process. This may involve working with a life coach to set and achieve personal goals or utilizing therapeutic techniques that help clients solve problems more effectively in their daily lives.
A key component of therapy here is the emphasis on creating a space where clients feel heard and seen, and feel comfortable sharing their experiences. Therapists metaphorically walk alongside their clients, providing a listening ear and compassionate guidance. This supportive environment can be crucial for those who are working through complex emotional and psychological issues.
Popular searches in the community often highlight the need for accessible and empathetic care, reflecting the local demand for mental health services that prioritize respect and understanding in the therapeutic relationship.
Please see the therapist profiles below for more information on the different therapists available online.
Patricia Lehr
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California and the state of Washington. I earned my Master of Social Work Degree from Washington University in St. Louis, and my Masters of Education from University of Texas San Antonio. For the past thirty years I have worked in private practices, schools, juvenile courts and community health organizations doing therapy and mediation. I have worked with a wide variety of clients from children, young adults, families, and the elderly from diverse backgrounds. My specialties include, parenting issues individually or in groups, play therapy with children concerning friendships, grief and loss and autistic children's social needs. With teenagers ,and young adults our focus has been relationships, anger management ,and career choices, and with the elderly 65+ population their issues of loneliness and depression. I am a compassionate and experienced therapist using a combination of approaches. I work with my clients where they are, give them the space to explore and use their strengths and experiences in order to help them get to where they want to go. As we process together gaining an understanding of their struggle, they will simultaneously learn new tools and skills to foster healthy functioning self esteem and relationships. Given the present social isolation, people are looking for a secure place to reach out and find support. I am passionate about helping those in need. I can offer a supportive and nurturing environment enabling clients to work through their challenges. I respect your courage for making the choice to work with Better Help to seek better understanding.
Janet Lengsfelder
I was a nurse first. As I worked in various settings with the goal of helping people recover from illness I realized that those who were motivated by a support team who knew them and helped them do the work of healing were the survivors. I decided I wanted to go on to learn more about how to help the whole person. My graduate degree followed by a three year training in Gestalt therapy gave me the tools to provide this deeper level of emotional first aid. As a fellow traveler along the road of life I know we all have challenges but I also have gained the wisdom to see that we have choices. I guide people to become aware of their life themes with the goal of strengthening their sense of self. Getting a handle on one’s self is very centering and stabilizing. It doesn’t eliminate anxiety or hard times, but it usually changes the perception of catastrophe and the feeling of panic into more manageable perceptions of disappointment and feelings of pain or sadness. I challenge you to risk living fully, to learn and grow from the challenges that life presents. Only then can you experience real joy. I am honored to be witness to your process.
Dayna Hunt
Hello, my name is Dayna Hunt and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist in the State of California. I was born and raised in Northern California, specifically Marin County. I have lived in Southern California and also Seattle, Washington. I have traveled across the United States as well as to Europe and lived a short time in Australia. I enjoy being outdoors, hiking, spending time in nature and with family. I received my Bachelor of Science Degree at California Polytechnic University in San Luis Obispo, CA and my Master of Science Degree in Counseling Psychology at Dominican University in San Rafael, Calif. I have always enjoyed listening to people's stories and problem solving. I knew I wanted to be a counselor at a very young age and began pursuing psychology early in life. My professional experience in the field began 27 years ago, when I began formally studying relationships and the different roles people play in their lives. I have worked with families, couples, teenagers, children and individuals in the private practice setting, family service agencies, schools and in the corporate setting. I utilize DBT training, also known as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy which taught me how to help others focus on improving distress tolerance skills, interpersonal skills, mindfulness and emotion regulation skills. I utilize CBT training, also known as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which taught me that thoughts matter, as they serve to create our individual reality. I believe if people examine and change their thoughts, they can change their life. Finally, I utilize a client centered, Rogerian approach, which in simple terms means, I meet people where they are at. If they want to improve their relationships, I try to help them to consider a new way of thinking as perspective is everything. I help them to increase healthy communication skills, decrease conflict and improve boundaries. This is what I help people do.
Amber Atwood
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). My therapy approach is strength-based aimed to empower and motivate individuals. I have been trained in a variety of approaches incorporating mindfulness based therapy techniques and cognitive behavioral therapy. Additionally, I have had extensive training in narrative therapy which is founded on the premise that “the person is not the problem, the problem is the problem.” Emphasis in treatment is to help individuals increase a greater sense of self-awareness, mind-body connection, and support personal growth. This approach includes developing an improved understanding of current coping mechanisms and behavioral patterns to help identify when feeling stuck.
Regina Phelps
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California. I have been working in the social services field for approximately 25 years, and have been a licensed therapist since 2012. I have experience conducting individual, couples and group therapy, in both residential and outpatient settings. Clients I see have presented with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, relationship and parenting issues, grief/loss, addiction, trauma, and dealing with life’s transitions. My approach to therapy is person/client centered in nature, meaning that I start new therapeutic relationships by making every effort to meet each person "where they are" and to serve as a support for each individual who is progressing through their own unique process of self-discovery and personal growth. In my work with clients, I use some of the leading psychological modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy. I will also use elements of Narrative, Strategic, and Family Systems approaches as appropriate. Clinical Approaches: • Solution Focused Therapy • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) • Motivational Interviewing • Twelve Step support • Psychodynamic Interventions SPECIALTIES • Relationship issues • Stress and Anxiety • Addictions and Codependency • Grief and Loss • Transitions/Life changes Also experienced in: • Parenting issues • Self-esteem • Work w/ Military/Veterans/First Responders My Educational Credentials include: - Licensed by the State of California, Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) - California State University, Fresno Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology - Trained in Psychological First Aid I believe in creating a space where we can have difficult conversations, work on resolving issues and collaborate on treatment plans that are tailored to your personal needs and experiences. I appreciate the courage and motivation needed to reach out for additional support, and I want to thank you for trusting me to assist as you work through your personal challenges. I look forward to working with you!
Kristen Edmonston
Hello and Welcome, Thank you for taking the time to read about who I am and how I might be able to help you. You have taken the first step to feeling better. The process of therapy can alleviate many life stressors. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the field. I received my degree from the University of California, Berkeley and have had a therapy practice since 2007. Since 2001, I have worked with schools as a Director of Mental Health support for the public schools. The most essential component in therapy is the alignment between therapist and client. I provide a warm, supportive, nonjudgemental space that allows people to open up and share. Having been in the field for a long time, I believe essentially there are no issues that can not be helped with a strong therapeutic environment. I have worked with many issues over the years including, anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, grief/loss, relationship and identity stressors. Each person is a unique individual with unique strengths and challenges. I get to know each and every person and work in collaboration with you to alleviate your stressors. “Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary. The people we trust with that important talk can help us know that we are not alone.”― Fred Rogers
Leslie Patricia Acoca
I am a licensed California Marriage and Family Therapist with 20 years of experience providing therapy to individuals, couples and families. I work with clients to create a warm and trusting environment where they can explore and find solutions for stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, as well as intimacy and relationship issues. I have extensive experience working clients and families who have lost loved ones to suicide. Taking the first step to creating a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Nydia Collins
Hi there! Welcome and congratulations on taking the first step in seeking support in this journey we call life. My name is Nydia (its basically Lydia just with an N) I am a licensed clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have been in this field for over 20 years. Areas I can help support you in are as follows: stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. Some modalities in my therapy toolbelt are MI, CBT, DBT, and I am currently working towards certification in EMDR. I do not wish to overwhelm you with this information if you do not know what form of therapy you want but know there are options and there is no one size fits all. The beauty is that I can always tailor my skill set to your needs. I love what I do and know its a privilege to support and work alongside someone so they can be the best version of themselves. I am transparent and look forward to helping you. I am grateful for the opportunity to help others. If you have questions or are interested in booking with me please refer to my information by clicking my name on this page. I wish you nothing but the best in this process.
Dominic Valdes
I am a dedicated Therapist with 17 years of experience, passionate about providing a warm, genuine, and empathetic approach to individual and couple's therapy. As a person of color and a gay man, I am deeply committed to creating a safe and inclusive space for all, especially for POC, the LGBTQ+ community/gay men. My areas of expertise include couple's therapy, working through infidelity, betrayal trauma, sex and porn addiction, EMDR/trauma, and perfectionism. I am here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery, and I look forward to being part of your path to wellness.
Victoria Brown
I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
How to find a therapist for counseling in Fountain Valley
Finding the best therapist close by in Fountain Valley can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services with therapists in Fountain Valley that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Fountain Valley. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Fountain Valley, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses for therapists. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Fountain Valley region and in the state of California. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Fountain Valley or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Fountain Valley therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.
There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Fountain Valley area offering:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Fountain Valley, elsewhere in Orange, or in the greater state of California. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Fountain Valley area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Fountain Valley therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Fountain Valley due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:
- Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
- Counseling with therapists: $100-300
- Therapy with a psychologist: $100
While many psychologists in Fountain Valley may not take health insurance, some in the state of California may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).
How is a licensed therapist on this Fountain Valley online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Fountain Valley, California working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. Therapists have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, therapists here all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy.
Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Fountain Valley psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Fountain Valley above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.
Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.
Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Fountain Valley provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Fountain Valley?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Fountain Valley therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.
Therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Fountain Valley therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.
Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Fountain Valley therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in CA, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 92708 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Fountain Valley counselor?
Before seeing your Fountain Valley therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Fountain Valley therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine?
Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Fountain Valley licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find with a Fountain Valley counselor can be dependent on your process.
People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Fountain Valley, California can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.
Fountain Valley has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.
Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?
The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.
Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Fountain Valley, California
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.
Take some time today to learn more about the team of Fountain Valley therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.
If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Fountain Valley:
92708, 92728