Grief counselors and therapists in Costa Mesa, CA

Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, but more importantly, I am a safe space, an advocate, a collaborator, and a sounding board. I specialize in trauma/intergenerational trauma, depression, anxiety, identity incongruency, and general life stage/cycle challenges. I am EMDR trained, and a Certified Grief Informed Counselor.

Hi, my name is Ning! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Social and Behavioral Sciences and a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. For the past seven years, I have worked with children, teens, adults, and older adults facing stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, major life transitions, complex mental health conditions. My clinical work focuses on anxiety and mood disorders, and I combine cognitive and somatic techniques with talk therapy to address root causes and foster lasting personal growth.

Life is Difficult! Many obstacles and challenges! I've been practicing 25+ years assisting adults (of all ages) and teens (15+) with major life changes, mild/moderate depression, anxiety, relationship/attachment issues, sobriety and its relation to mental health. I also work with high functioning career/work choices - helping students/adult-professionals find Purpose-Vision, and Ambition in their career (Life/Career-Coaching). I employ talk therapy to alleviate symptoms, elevate mood, increase self-awareness and existing strengths. I also help people in recovery to alleviate 'Character Defects' that continue on in sobriety.

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.

I believe that healing begins with feeling truly seen, heard, and understood. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in curiosity rather than judgment. Whether you're navigating anxiety, grief, life transitions, relationship struggles, or simply feeling stuck, I offer a space where you can explore what’s happening with honesty and compassion.

I draw from evidence-based modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and psychodynamic insights, while always tailoring my approach to your unique needs and goals. Together, we’ll work to uncover patterns, build insight, and develop practical strategies that help you move toward clarity and meaningful change.

Clients often describe me as calm, supportive, and direct in a kind way. I value humor when it’s helpful, and I work to foster a relationship where you feel safe enough to be real—even when it’s hard.

Reaching out takes courage, and finding the right fit is key. If you're looking for someone who will listen deeply, challenge gently, and walk alongside you at your pace, I’d be honored to work with you.

Therapy is serious work, but it doesn’t always have to feel heavy. Real change happens in a strong, trusting relationship where you feel safe, supported, and maybe even able to laugh along the way. I help clients struggling with self-image and self-esteem, and am especially passionate about working with people in all stages of recovery—whether newly sober or years into sobriety. Additionally, I'm EMDR trained and use this modality to guide clients in processing past traumatic experiences that negatively impact daily life. I also hold an MBA and incorporate financial psychology to explore the emotional impact of money on well-being.