FAQ's About Therapists in Orange County

There are so many counselors in Orange County…how do I pick one?

I believe this is one of the most important questions a potential client/patient asks me.  Research confirms my belief that the most important agent for change in therapy is when one has a good rapport with his/her therapist.  Therefore, it is important to find a therapist who you believe can help you and one you can trust.  Simply put too – one you like!  I usually recommend people read my website and if it sounds appealing and helpful to call me.  A brief telephone conversation can also give you a clue as to whether you are comfortable.  Go with your instinct.  If you still feel after a brief conversation comfortable, make a first appointment.  If you aren’t comfortable at any time, seek another therapist, or I can provide you with a referral.

What are the different types of therapists in Orange County?

There are 4 mental health licenses in the state of California: MFT (Marriage and Family Therapist), licensed psychologist, LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), and psychiatrist (MD).  All four licenses can provide therapy.  It is usually best to find a licensed mental health professional when looking for a therapist/counselor.   

What are the qualifications for a licensed marriage and family therapist in Orange County? 

A marriage and family therapist has a minimum of a master’s degree, although I hold a doctoral degree in clinical psychology, and has passed the California’s licensure exams.  I have passed a written and an oral exam, as well as have thousands of clinical training hours both pre and post licensure.

What are the different types of therapy?

There are many types of therapy.  There are different theoretical orientations (schools of psychological thought) and different types of therapy to represent the populations we work with (individuals, couples, group therapy). 

What is the difference between a counselor and a therapist?

In the state of California, most clinicians and the public use the words interchangeably.  Some people prefer the word therapist, others psychotherapist, and others counselor.  I am comfortable using all three words to describe my clinical work.

What are therapists in Orange County usual and customary fees and cancellation policies?

Most therapists in Orange County have a fee of $100-$150 per 50 minute sessions.  My fees are $120 for individuals and $140 for couples per 50 minute sessions.  Some people prefer to book longer sessions for an additional fee. 

Most therapists in Orange County have a 24 to 48 hour cancellation/rescheduling policy.  I have a 24 cancellation/rescheduling policy, which means that unless you give me 24 hours advanced notice that you won’t be able to attend a mutually agreed upon scheduled appointment for any reason, you are then responsible for the fee for that session.  This can seem punishing; however, that is not most therapist’s intent.  Rather the reason is wee reserve large blocks of time for clients (and don’t overlap like many other mental health professionals).

Where is your office in Orange County?

My office is located in Mission Viejo(Orange County) just off of the 5 freeway and Oso/Pacific Park.  I am also conveniently located off of the toll roads (73 & 241).  My address is 26938 Marbella, Mission Viejo, CA 92691.

Heading south on the 5 Fwy:  Exit Oso/Pacific Park and turn left.  Go to Marguerite and turn right.  Go to La Mancha/Felipe and make another right.  Right on Nublado and a left on Marbella.

Heading north on the 5 fwy:  Exit Crown Valley Pkwy and turn right.  Go to Marguerite and turn left.  Make another left on La Mancha/Felipe.   Right on Nublado and a left on Marbella.

Heading south on the 73 tollroad:  Exit Greenfield and turn right.  Left on Crown Valley.   Go to Marguerite and turn left.  Make another left on La Mancha/Felipe.   Right on Nublado and a left on Marbella.

Heading south on the 241 tollroad:  Exit Oso and turn right.  Left on Marguerite.   Go to La Mancha/Felipe and make a right.  Right on Nublado and a left on Marbella.