Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Laguna Niguel, CA covered by Cigna

I can understand first-hand how difficult it can be to reach out for help for the first time. I believe in the importance of "practicing what you preach" and I have been the client in the room who needs extra support. I invite you to give yourself a chance, try something new, and gain a healthy perspective on how to address complicated moments in your life.

Hi my name is Ana, I'm a dedicated mental health professional specializing in comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment, strategic treatment planning, and collaborative care. Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when you are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, or major life transitions. You may be feeling emotionally exhausted, disconnected, stuck in unhealthy patterns, or simply wanting a safe space to process what you’ve been carrying. My goal is to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change. Together, we can work toward helping you build resilience, improve emotional well-being, strengthen relationships, and reconnect with yourself.

If you’re struggling with your relationship with food, your body, or feeling stuck in cycles of restriction, bingeing, or guilt, you are not alone—and you don’t have to face it by yourself. In my private practice, I specialize in working with individuals navigating eating disorders and disordered eating.

I provide compassionate, individualized therapy for adolescents and adults experiencing anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, chronic dieting, and body image concerns. In addition to eating disorder treatment, I work with children, teens, and adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, substance use, and challenges related to identity and the LGBTQIA+ community. I am committed to creating an affirming, inclusive space where clients of all backgrounds feel seen, respected, & supported.

I earned a master's degree in Counseling Psychology with a focus on Marriage and Family Therapy. I have worked with children and adults in poverty, with trauma and dysfunctional generational patterns, with children to young adults to seniors as well as community education groups. I work with a varied age group, multiple tools, and bring mindfulness as well as extensive life experience into the safe space created in therapy.

As a therapist working with both children and adults with 5 years experience, my clinical approach is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a strong belief in each person’s capacity for healing and growth. I strive to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to explore their experiences. Many individuals come to therapy carrying the weight of trauma, stress, or life transitions, and my role is to walk alongside them as they develop insight, resilience, and practical coping skills.

My journey into mental health began with a deep interest in the intersection of human behavior and emotional resilience.

I enjoy working with adolescents and adults going through life transitions and experiencing trauma. My current practice includes individual treatment helping adults with anxiety and depression, self-esteem/confidence, grief, trauma and life transitions! Finding a therapist with whom you connect with is important.

Over the past 14 years, I have worked in a variety of settings, including private practice, community clinics and public school settings. These experiences have shaped my belief that therapy is not a "one-size-fits-all" process, but rather a collaborative partnership built on trust and evidence-based strategies!

I hold a Master of Social Work from California State Long Beach as well as a Bachelor of Social Work from Azusa Pacific University..

I have been described as a “down to earth” and “real” therapist. I like to believe these are accurate descriptors. I bring a plethora of experience to my therapy room; however, I recognize, acknowledge, and celebrate the client being the expert on their life. I provide a safe environment which allows my clients to be transparent without judgment. It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help and it is definitely a risk. We need to remember there is no growth without risk!

Struggling with anxious thoughts or self-doubt? I work with young adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, trauma, and self-esteem challenges. Together, we’ll build coping skills and create a personalized plan for growth that feels empowering and achievable.

Feeling stuck or overwhelmed? You’re not alone. I help clients navigate anxiety, self-doubt, and life changes with curiosity and compassion. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected—to yourself and the life you want to create.

It has been a privilege to provide psychotherapy to a variety of clients for over 20 years. I have advanced clinical training in trauma, addictions, sexual abuse, mood and personality disorders, and relationships. My therapeutic style is warm, direct, and encouraging. I provide support as you examine core issues and change underlying patterns of behavior or simply gain perspective concerning a recent issue.