Anxiety and depression therapists and psychiatrists in Laguna Beach, CA

Choosing a therapist is a big decision, and it helps to know a little about the person you’ll be working with. With more than 18 years in behavioral health, I’ve supported people from all walks of life through mental health challenges, trauma, and major life transitions. Whatever brought you here, I’d be honored to walk alongside you as you move forward with more confidence and resilience.

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Hello! My name is Janette Ruano. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Los Angeles County, California. I provide Telehealth services for children, adolescents, and adults throughout the state of California. I specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, and trauma.

Book knowledge is helpful, but life experience is invaluable. I spent over 30 years in sales and management in the airline industry before becoming a therapist and this real-world experience helps me to better understand the challenges people face. Since embarking on my career as a therapist, I have completed over 12,000 therapy sessions, working with individuals and couples from various cultures and unique challenges. I have been blessed to be in an endeavor that I don't consider to be work.

With over 15 years of experience, I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and other emotional challenges. My approach is grounded in compassion, mindfulness, and neuroscience, and I am certified in trauma-informed care.

I came to therapy first as a client, hoping to get rid of difficult feelings. Instead, I discovered that healing comes from learning to understand and make space for them. That experience deeply shaped the way I work today.

My style is active, collaborative, and experiential. Rather than only talking about problems, we'll pay attention to what is happening in the present moment—including thoughts, emotions, and body sensations—to create meaningful and lasting change. I believe therapy should help you build a different relationship with yourself, not just gain insight.

I'm passionate about helping people reconnect with themselves, cultivate self-compassion, and move toward a life that feels more authentic and fulfilling. I also maintain a regular mindfulness practice, which supports the grounded and attentive presence I bring to my work. It is a privilege to accompany clients through the process of healing and growth.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 28 years of experience in the mental health field. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Hunter School of Social Work and have lived and practiced in California for over three decades. My professional background includes extensive work with older adults, individuals experiencing homelessness, and adults living with severe and persistent mental illness. I am known for my patient, compassionate, and attentive approach, and I strive to be fully engaged and present with every client I serve. My goal is to provide thoughtful, individualized support that helps clients feel understood and empowered in their therapeutic journey.

I have worked in behavioral health for over 15 years and have learned that listening to patients and understanding their unique goals is essential to achieving positive outcomes.

I believe therapy works best when it’s grounded in understanding who you are as a whole person. Everyone comes to therapy with their own story, background, and way of communicating, and I take time to really get to know each client as an individual. My goal is to create a warm, non-judgmental space where you feel comfortable being yourself, sharing openly, and feeling genuinely heard and supported as we work through what brought you to therapy.

I hold a Doctorate in Social Work and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I’ve been working as a therapist since 2015 and independently licensed since 2018. I primarily work with adults (18+) and support individuals navigating concerns such as anxiety, depression, adjustment challenges, brief grief experiences, life transitions, and women’s issues.

I believe therapy works best when clients feel safe, respected, and genuinely understood. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in helping people navigate life's challenges with greater clarity and confidence. I strive to create a supportive space where clients can explore their experiences without judgement while building practical tools for growth, healing, and lasting change.