Connect with Trauma and PTSD therapists in Laguna Woods, CA

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+ therapists
A headshot image of Mark Gery

Mark Gery

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
30+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Mark Gery, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Mark has a Master of Arts from California Institute of Integral Studies.

Fountain Valley, CA
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Depression
Family Conflict
Parenting
Personality Disorders
Relationship Issues
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Supportive

For live appointments, client's come about 10 minutes early and then take the elevator up to the third-floor lobby, where they sit down and fill out a one page information sheet. At the given appointment time, I will come down the hallway and greet you and then we go to my small, confidential office to talk. For online appointments, I use Zoom.

Available virtually and in person

A headshot image of Courtney Gingras

Courtney Gingras

LPCC
4+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Courtney Gingras, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Coping Skills
Mood Disorders
Peer Relationships
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Supportive

I understand that seeking therapy and navigating mental health challenges or life changes can feel overwhelming. I believe healing happens through genuine connection paired with real, actionable tools — and my goal is to meet you where you are, so we can work together toward lasting, meaningful change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Melissa Fitzsimmons

Melissa Fitzsimmons

LCSW
8+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Melissa Fitzsimmons, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Coping Skills
Depression
Family Conflict
Parenting
Relationship Issues
Style
Directive
Approachable
Affirming

Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming. My goal is to create a space that feels safe, genuine, and human. I’m warm, transparent, empathetic, and occasionally bring some edgy humor. You can show up exactly as you are, without judgment, while we explore what’s keeping you stuck and what you want to change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Karin West

Karin West

LMFT
7+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Karin West, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Karin has a Master of Health Science (MHS) from California State University, Sacramento.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Panic Attacks
Stress
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California. I’m a warm and down-to-earth therapist who provides a safe space to explore your concerns in a respectful non-judgmental atmosphere, providing a place in which you can feel comfortable to be you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Leslie Dorticos

Leslie Dorticos

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
1+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Leslie Dorticos, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Leslie has a Master of Clinical Health Services from Turo University Worldwide.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Self Esteem
Style
Responsive
Warm
Collaborative

When circumstances or life, in general, can feel overwhelming, either from past history or current situations, getting through the day can be a struggle. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where your story matters.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Erin Costello

Erin Costello

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Erin Costello, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Erin has a Master of Science (MS) in Mental Health Counseling from California State University, Fullerton.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
ADHD
Autism or Asperger's Syndrome
Chronic Pain
LGBTQIA+
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Affirming

My pronouns are she/they, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, and Neuro-Queer clients. I provide affirming, intersectional, trauma-focused therapy where you can feel understood, explore what shaped you, and build a life that feels authentic to who you are.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Luz Venegas

Luz Venegas

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
15+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Luz Venegas, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Luz has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from San Jose State University.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
ADHD
Anxiety
Grief
Mood Disorders
Style
Insightful
Gentle
Curious

Taking the first step towards healing is often difficult, but trust that you are making the right decision to a better tomorrow. My goal is that you are able to feel better about your decisions, and to trust yourself in the process. I welcome the opportunity to help you achieve positive changes.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jennifer Ferguson

Jennifer Ferguson

LPCC
1+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Jennifer Ferguson, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Jennifer has a Master of Science in Counseling from Capella University.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Codependency
Coping Skills
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Practical
Approachable
Collaborative

Seeking help for mental health issues can feel intimidating and humbling, but it doesn’t have to be. Recognizing when to ask for help is a sign of strength. We all need someone who will listen, empathize, guide when needed, and even challenge us at times. This is what you’ll experience with me.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Nicole Rabiezadeh

Nicole Rabiezadeh

LMFT
13+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Nicole Rabiezadeh, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Nicole has a Master of Science in Psychology, Clinical Psychology with emphasis in Marriage & Family Therapy from Pepperdine Graduate School of Education & Psychology.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Developmental Disorders
School Issues
Women's Issues
Style
Outcome-oriented
Approachable
Supportive

I’m a therapist who creates a grounded, nonjudgmental space where you can untangle what’s weighing on you and start moving forward with clarity. I blend evidence-based approaches with genuine curiosity about your story, helping you build insight, resilience, and practical tools that actually fit your life. My goal is to help you feel understood.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Michelle Barnes

Michelle Barnes

LCSW
3+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Michelle Barnes, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Michelle has a Master of Social Work from Metropolitan State University of Denver.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
Eating Disorders
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Supportive

If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or like parts of yourself have become hard to understand, you do not have to sort through it alone. I am a therapist based in Orange County, California, who helps clients navigate anxiety, self-doubt, and life changes with curiosity and compassion.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Samuel Semanda

Samuel Semanda

LMFT
4+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Samuel Semanda, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Collaborative

I'm an LMFT, and I warmly welcome you as you begin this work together. In an intersubjective approach, I focus on how your experiences and our therapeutic relationship unfold in the room, creating safety, meaning, and momentum.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Janelle Alexander

Janelle Alexander

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
16+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Janelle Alexander, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Janelle has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Barry University.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Anger Management
Coping Skills
Mood Disorders
Relationship Issues
Spirituality
Style
Insightful
Spiritual
Collaborative

I am a licensed clinician in California and Florida (soon to be in Washington) with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, mood disorders, relationship issues, trauma, PTSD, self-issues, plus much more.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Carolina Minervini

Carolina Minervini

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Carolina Minervini, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Carolina has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) Marriage and Family Therapy from Fuller Theological Seminary.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
ADHD
LGBTQIA+
Mood Disorders
Spirituality
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Collaborative

I'm glad you're here. I believe healing is possible for all of us, and I feel privileged to support people on their unique journeys. I am passionate about this work because I am inspired by our shared humanity, the connections that help us heal, and the ways creativity and art bring us closer to ourselves and each other.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Brianna Dombroske

Brianna Dombroske

LPCC
6+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Brianna Dombroske, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Brianna has a Master of Clinical Health Services from Walden University.

Fallbrook, CA
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Behavioral Issues
Coping Skills
Self Esteem
Stress
Style
Practical
Approachable
Supportive

I strive to create balance between work, relationships, family, and personal hobbies in my own life as well as with clients. Existing in a space of gratitude and finding peace and inner contentment, while letting go of ideas of perfection and societal expectations, is important to me.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Mclain Hess

Mclain Hess

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Mclain Hess, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Mclain has a Masters of Arts (MA) from California Lutheran University.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
Eating Disorders
Self Esteem
Stress
Style
Directive
Approachable
Collaborative

I know that reaching out for therapy can feel intimidating, and my goal is to make that first step feel a little easier. I provide a warm, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where children, adolescents, and young adults can safely explore life's challenges, build resilience, and work toward meaningful, lasting change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Christopher Richardson

Christopher Richardson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
10+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Christopher Richardson, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Christopher has a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology with a Marriage and Family Therapy Specialization from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
Grief
Substance Use
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Collaborative

Life is a journey with many bumps along the way, and I specialize in helping you navigate them. I work with people facing trauma, grief, anxiety, substance abuse, and depression. Whether you're dealing with short-term stress or long-term challenges, I'll use my knowledge and our therapeutic relationship to help you reach your best self.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Alma Rodriguez

Alma Rodriguez

LMFT
3+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Alma Rodriguez, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Alma has a Master of Arts in Counseling and Mental Health from Sonoma State University.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
Parenting
Self Esteem
Suicidal Ideation
Style
Responsive
Warm
Empowering

I believe therapy is most effective when you feel accepted, understood, and empowered. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you can be yourself while also feeling challenged to grow. I meet clients where they are, recognizing that everyone comes to therapy with unique experiences, strengths, and goals.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Rebecca Morrison

Rebecca Morrison

LMFT
2+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Rebecca Morrison, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Rebecca has a Master in Counseling (MC) from Point Loma Nazarene Universisty.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
Stress
Style
Exploratory
Gentle
Empowering

As a therapist, I’m passionate about providing compassionate and empowering care for individuals navigating challenges related to trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health concerns. My hope is to create a safe and supportive space where individuals can build the tools, insight, and confidence needed to thrive.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Nancy Martinez

Nancy Martinez

LMFT
5+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Nancy Martinez, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

Garden Grove, CA
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Self Esteem
Women's Issues
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

Welcome to the first step in your therapeutic journey. I work with individuals that occupy a guide to navigate their anxiety, depression, stress, family issues, and relationship issues. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment to provide you with the best care.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Mario Cruz-Martinez

Mario Cruz-Martinez

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
1+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Mario Cruz-Martinez, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Mario has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pacific Oaks College and a Masters of Arts (MA) in Forensic Psychology from Argosy University.

Lancaster, CA
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Behavioral Issues
Depression
Style
Insightful
Gentle
Collaborative

I provide services in both English and Spanish, supporting clients through a warm and collaborative therapeutic relationship.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jimmie Simpson

Jimmie Simpson

LMFT
9+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Jimmie Simpson, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Jimmie has a Master in Counseling from University of Phoenix.

Los Angeles, CA
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Addiction
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Collaborative

Welcome! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 10+ years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. I provide a warm, supportive, trauma-informed space where we'll work together to build resilience, healing, and lasting positive change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Roselle Smith

Roselle Smith

LMFT
5+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Roselle Smith, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Depression
Grief
Life Transitions
Suicidal Ideation
Style
Practical
Approachable
Supportive

I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist dedicated to providing compassionate, client-centered care in a safe and supportive environment. My approach focuses on helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, build resilience, and develop practical strategies to improve their mental health.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Joseph Garcia

Joseph Garcia

LMFT
3+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Joseph Garcia, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Joseph has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapist from Touro University Worldwide.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Addiction
Autism or Asperger's Syndrome
Career Counseling
Parenting
jobStress
Style
Outcome-oriented
Approachable
Collaborative

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to providing a supportive, respectful, and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel heard and understood. My approach is collaborative and practical, helping individuals navigate life challenges, strengthen coping skills, and improve relationships.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Cassandra Alfaro

Cassandra Alfaro

LMFT
2+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Cassandra Alfaro, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Cassandra has a Master in Counseling (MC) Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Depression
Family Conflict
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University. I’ve had exciting opportunities to work in a variety of therapeutic settings including an inpatient psychiatric hospital treating a higher level of acuity, intensive outpatient program supporting teens.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Hilario Martinez

Hilario Martinez

LMFT
5+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Hilario Martinez, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Hilario has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pacific Oaks College.

California
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
First Responders
Stress
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Collaborative

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with a specialization in Trauma. I studied at CSULA and at Pacific Oaks University. I am compassionate, empathetic, can be humorous, and love the Lakers/Basketball. I love what I do, and I am a strong believer in that, "mental health matters".

Available virtually