Bipolar disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Lake Forest, CA

I am a compassionate and dedicated psychotherapist who values creating a genuine, trusting connection with each client. I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, understood, and able to be your authentic self.

I earned my Master of Arts from National University and completed doctoral-level training at Pacifica Graduate Institute. My clinical training and professional experience have provided me with a strong foundation in working with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

I have experience working in drug and alcohol rehabilitation settings, where I supported individuals navigating substance use, trauma, and related mental health challenges. I also have experience working with men’s mental health concerns, including emotional regulation, identity, and relationship issues.

I use an integrative approach, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Psychodynamic Therapy to help clients understand both present challenges and underlying patterns. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship concerns, and life transitions, helping them build insight alongside practical tools for lasting change.

Outside of my work as a therapist, I value staying active and maintaining a strong mind-body connection. I spend much of my time weightlifting, boxing, practicing jiu-jitsu, and participating in CrossFit and Olympic lifting, and I also enjoy running. These practices help me stay grounded and bring a perspective of discipline, resilience, and balance into my work with clients.

I am a board-certified nurse practitioner with many years of experience in healthcare, including primary care, psychiatric mental health, leadership, and wellness-based practice. My background has allowed me to work with individuals facing a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and medical concerns, and I understand how closely mental health and physical health are connected.

I am Jennifer Ferguson. I knew I wanted to be a therapist when I was 13. After college, I was a teacher on and off-interspersed with staying home with children. While completing my counseling degree from Capella University, I was still able to stay at home with my children. I have worked at a drug rehab center for women, a small private school as their mental health therapist, at a mental health hospital outpatient program, and in private practice, virtually and in-person.

I'm Melody Claiborne, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Washington and California. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, and depression, offering thorough diagnostic evaluations and personalized medication management for adults. I believe in care that sees the whole person — not just a diagnosis. Having witnessed patients go unheard during their most vulnerable moments, I built my practice around genuine advocacy and connection. I work at your pace, in a safe and supportive environment where your concerns are fully heard and your goals guide your treatment.

I help clients navigate life's challenges and achieve greater fulfillment. Whether you're facing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or self-esteem concerns, I'm here to support and empower you on your journey toward positive change.

Welcome!

Please message me for my availability!

My goal is to create safety, trust, and openness on your path to healing. I have been practicing for over 10 years and firmly believe that wellness is your investment in yourself.

Mi objetivo es generar seguridad, confianza y sinceridad en tu camino hacia la sanación. He estado ejerciendo la profesión durante más de 10 años y creo firmemente que el bienestar es una inversión en ti mismo.

I am currently accepting new clients. Great to meet you. If you have been carrying anxiety, depression, or that heavy feeling of not quite being like yourself, we can work through it together. I offer virtual therapy that meets you where you are, with care that feels compassionate, practical, and grounded in real life. My goal is to help you feel more like yourself again and build a path toward a brighter, more fulfilling tomorrow.