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Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Lake Forest, CA

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Top trauma and PTSD therapists and psychiatrists in Lake Forest, CA

Navigate trauma recovery in Lake Forest with Headway's network of warm, solution-oriented providers trained in trauma-focused interventions including CPT, EMDR, and DBT skills. Access compassionate support for PTSD symptoms with sessions available as soon as next day, covered by insurance.

Holly Kempler

Holly Kempler

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • Newport Beach, CA


“I believe that therapy is a collaborative process and that meaningful change begins with feeling safe, understood, and genuinely heard.”
PTSD, Trauma, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Erick Santos

Erick Santos

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • Irvine, CA


“As the child of Salvadoran parents who fled civil war, I have a personal understanding of how trauma, resilience, and generational patterns can shape our lives.”
PTSD, Trauma, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety
Holistic, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Rachel Mitchell

Rachel Mitchell

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • Newport Beach, CA


“My style is warm, collaborative, and insight-oriented. I work from a psychodynamic perspective to build a deeper understanding of what's shaping your thoughts, emotions, and relationships...”
PTSD, Trauma, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Eve Lievonen

Eve Lievonen

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 8.5 mi away • Laguna Niguel, CA


“With over 30 years of experience, I have learned that real change happens when people feel understood, not judged.”
PTSD, Trauma, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Sandra Castillo

Sandra Castillo

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 12 mi away • Santa Ana, CA


“I believe that mental wellness is the foundation for a fulfilling life, yet I know that reaching out for help is often the hardest step.”
PTSD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Participatory, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Lisa Billings

Dr. Lisa Billings

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 3.7 mi away • Laguna Hills, CA


I work with adolescents and adults and offer individual, couples, and family therapy. I help individuals identify their goals and make the changes necessary to help them lead more productive and fulfilling lives. I am directive, and I provide a warm, caring and non-judgmental environment to explore the issues and life-events with which you may be struggling.

PTSD, Trauma, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Brooke Huffstetler

Brooke Huffstetler

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • Newport Beach, CA


“My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded, integrating Somatic Experiencing, CBT, and attachment-based therapy to help clients better understand patterns, strengthen relationships, and create meaningful change.”
PTSD, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Direct, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Alexandra Schnack

Alexandra Schnack

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • Newport Beach, CA


“My style is warm, personable, and grounded in genuine connection. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the foundation of meaningful change...”
PTSD, Trauma, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression
Participatory, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Manuel Cruz

Manuel Cruz

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 9.6 mi away • Tustin, CA


“I strive to create a safe, non-judgemental environment where I can meet my clients where they are and help them learn to become the best version of themselves.”
Trauma, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Challenging, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Melissa Paz-Medrano

Melissa Paz-Medrano

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 11 mi away • Orange, CA


“I believe therapy is helping individuals reconnect with their strengths, build self-awareness, develop practical tools while moving toward healing and growth.”
PTSD, Trauma, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Michael Gapski

Michael Gapski

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 5 mi away • Newport Beach, CA


“I have been a therapist for 7 years in high acuity levels of care, and specialize in working with men, young adults, teens, and families.”
Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Challenging, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shavvonne Walls

Shavvonne Walls

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 11 mi away • Newport Beach, CA


“Imagine if your symptoms no longer controlled you. You feel safe and confident that you can face life challenges.”
PTSD, Trauma, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Diana Kogan

Diana Kogan

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • Irvine, CA


Life can feel overwhelming when anxiety, depression, ADHD, or past trauma weigh you down. You might be struggling with stress, grief, or relationship challenges, unsure of how to move forward. But you don’t have to navigate this alone. Therapy is a space to help you rediscover your strengths, gain clarity, and develop new ways to cope. Whether you're feeling stuck, disconnected, or simply looking for support, I’m here to help you find a path toward healing and confidence.

PTSD, Trauma, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Arasha Alcaraz

Arasha Alcaraz

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 12 mi away • Santa Ana, CA


Hello, my name is Arasha, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over seven years of experience. I aim to provide a safe space to hold and help you explore emotions, thoughts, and difficulties. I believe in the importance of using somatic approaches to help you build self-awareness and cultivate a deeper connection between your mind and body.

PTSD, Trauma, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Creative, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 14 insurance carriers
Vimal Patel

Vimal Patel

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 13 mi away • Santa Ana, CA


Hi, I’m Vimal Patel, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in healthcare. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing and have a background in both psychiatric and intensive care nursing. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders using a combination of medication management and supportive therapy. My approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and centered around your unique needs and goals. I'm here to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered on your mental health journey.

PTSD, Trauma, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Brenna Dumerton

Brenna Dumerton

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 12 mi away • Santa Ana, CA


“I'm committed to delivering holistic care, not only managing symptoms but also improving quality of life and overall well-being.”
PTSD, Trauma, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Nate Anderson

Nate Anderson

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 14 mi away • Costa Mesa, CA


“My approach to therapy is collaborative, supportive, and grounded in the belief that you are the expert on your own life.”
PTSD, Trauma, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Veronica Thurman

Veronica Thurman

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 12 mi away • Costa Mesa, CA


I have supported clients with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, relational issues, personality disorders and trauma. I completed my M.A. in psycholoy in 2018 and since then I have worked in both private practice and school settings. I am also trained in EMDR. I use an eclectic approach to therapy that I tailor to meet the needs of each client.

PTSD, Trauma, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shelby Ammann

Shelby Ammann

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 13 mi away • Newport Beach, CA


“I work with teens and adults navigating complex trauma, anxiety, sleep concerns, and depression—often when symptoms feel persistent despite effort or prior therapy.”
PTSD, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Dr. Jose Cholula Bruno

Dr. Jose Cholula Bruno

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 13 mi away • Santa Ana, CA


“I specialize in working with professionals, athletes, coaches, trainers, and other high-achieving individuals to address areas of anxiety and stress.”
PTSD, Trauma, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Madeline Reams

Madeline Reams

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 13 mi away • Newport Beach, CA


“My style is warm, direct, empowering, and a little humorous. I'll meet you with compassion, while also challenging you when needed...”
Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Rodolfo Gomez

Rodolfo Gomez

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • Irvine, CA


“I believe that a therapist can encourage you to recognize your strengths so that you can use them to help you grow.”
PTSD, Trauma, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 14 insurance carriers
Nalleli Garrido

Nalleli Garrido

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 15 mi away • Garden Grove, CA


“Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, I work closely with my patients to develop individualized treatment plans...”
PTSD, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Jennifer De Santis

Jennifer De Santis

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 15 mi away • Anaheim, CA


“I have a vast amount of experience in working with a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, loss, infertility, perinatal and postpartum, trauma and more.”
PTSD, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Louis An

Louis An

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • Newport Beach, CA


“I believe in self-determination. I am not a very directive therapist that will tell clients what to do and what not to do.”
Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Laura Cabanillas

Laura Cabanillas

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 16 mi away • San Clemente, CA


I have a Master's in Counseling and have practiced in the field of mental health for nearly two decades. My experience as a therapist includes extensive training and work in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship issues, women’s issues, and spirituality. I am licensed in both California (LPCC) and Washington (LMHC), and I’m a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) through the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals (IAEDP). I also hold a certification in Grief (CGP). I emphasize a whole-person approach to care, considering the full spectrum of physical, emotional, social, and spiritual factors that impact your overall health and well-being.

PTSD, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Elaine Brattain

Elaine Brattain

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 15 mi away • Anaheim, CA


You have bravely ventured the move toward a more satisfying life. I too faced my own season of growth and refinement. A loss experience and compassion for others sparked my desire to pursue a master’s in clinical counseling from California State University, Fullerton.

Individuals enter therapy for a variety of reasons including loss, unresolved childhood experiences, difficult life transitions, changes in emotional states, troubling beliefs, or patterns of thought.

PTSD, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Christina LaMonica

Christina LaMonica

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 15 mi away • Anaheim, CA


“I love the work I do and I believe the therapeutic relationship to be a powerful component for long-lasting change.”
PTSD, Trauma, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Eima Mesgarha

Dr. Eima Mesgarha

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • Irvine, CA


Hi & Welcome. We all face challenges at times throughout our lives. We may need support finding self-awareness and compassion which I believe is the key in the healing process. I enjoy acting as an empowering guide along your journey. I believe in our innate capacity to change and create a meaningful and UPLIFTING life. My goal for you is to foster a safe, accepting and also challenging space that encourages personal growth and empowers you to make positive changes that support your values.

PTSD, Trauma, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Abdel Tayyem

Abdel Tayyem

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 17 mi away • Corona, CA


Hi, I’m Abdel! With over 15 years of experience in healthcare, I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to providing compassionate care for individuals managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. As a bilingual speaker in English and Arabic, I specialize in creating an inclusive environment where patients from all backgrounds feel truly heard and respected. My goal is to empower you through open communication and evidence-based treatment to help you achieve lasting wellness.

PTSD, Trauma, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Alice Kim

Alice Kim

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 15 mi away • Garden Grove, CA


“I believe every person deserves to feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their mental health journey.”
PTSD, Trauma, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Nancy Rocco

Nancy Rocco

Therapist

In-person • 16 mi away • Yorba Linda, CA


“Because of my background in medicine, psychology and social work, I'm able to bring a unique diversity of observations and assessments to my clients.”
PTSD, Trauma, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Cynthia Wygal

Cynthia Wygal

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 17 mi away • Corona, CA


“I provide a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment.”
PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Stress management
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Norman Quintero

Dr. Norman Quintero

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 16 mi away • Anaheim, CA


“He integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with humanistic principles to help clients better understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while also feeling deeply heard, respected, and supported.”
PTSD, Trauma, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 15 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Erin Beldner-Martinez

Erin Beldner-Martinez

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 18 mi away • Huntington Beach, CA


“I'm a licensed therapist who believes therapy works best when clients feel safe, understood and are met with compassion.”
PTSD, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Maternal mental health
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jennifer Moen

Jennifer Moen

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 18 mi away • Huntington Beach, CA


“I use EMDR, Narrative Therapy, and trauma-responsive interventions in a direct and grounded way to facilitate meaningful, sustainable change.”
PTSD, Trauma, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Creative, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Michelle Johnson

Michelle Johnson

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • Huntington Beach, CA


“My approach is attachment-focused and trauma-informed, drawing on EMDR, somatic therapy to help clients not just talk about their struggles, but truly feel different in their relationships and daily lives.”
PTSD, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Janet Gichau

Janet Gichau

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 18 mi away • Corona, CA


“My open-minded strategic approach and accepting individualism help me let the patient guide in discussing their personal health struggles.”
PTSD, Trauma, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Heidi Dryer

Heidi Dryer

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 16 mi away • Yorba Linda, CA


My name is Heidi Dryer and I obtained my license as a Marriage and Family Therapist in 2015 but I started practicing in 2012 under supervision. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and I am also certified in Nutritional and Integrative Medicine for Mental Health. I specialize in working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse.

Healing from complex trauma requires looking at your whole self, not just your symptoms. Complex trauma leaves a lasting blueprint on your mind, body, and nervous system, which is why traditional talk therapy alone often feels like it isn't enough. An integrative health approach addresses this by combining gentle psychological healing with body-based therapies, nutrition, and lifestyle support to help you feel safe in your own skin again.

PTSD, Trauma, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Clint Nacar

Clint Nacar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 19 mi away • Chino Hills, CA


“With the collaboration of each patient, Mr. Nacar strives to develop individualized plans of care addressing each patient's unique situation and concerns.”
PTSD, Trauma, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

About our therapists who can help with trauma and PTSD located within 20 miles of Lake Forest, CA

Number of therapists within 20 miles of Lake Forest, CA
There are over 97 therapists in Lake Forest, CA accepting new patients.
97+
Average years in practice
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9 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 98%Anxiety
  • 96%Depression
  • 89%Trauma
  • 89%PTSD
  • 82%Stress management
Insurances accepted
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  • 98%Aetna
  • 71%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 68%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 63%Cigna
  • 53%Providence Health Plan
Languages spoken
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  • 97%English
  • 16%Spanish
  • 4%Farsi
  • 2%Arabic
  • 2%Cantonese
How they see their clients
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  • 94%In-person or online
  • 6%In-person only
Provider gender
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  • 78%Woman
  • 22%Man
License types
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  • 47%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 18%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 18%Nurse Practitioner
  • 10%Clinical Psychologist
  • 7%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 34%Family therapy
  • 23%Couples therapy
  • 14%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

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1 Cost may vary based on your location, age, and insurance coverage.