Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Mission Viejo, CA

I was born and raised in the Chicagoland area. My undergraduate B.A and graduate M.A. training took place at Wheaton College. Following graduate school in the midwest, I moved to the west coast, where I attended the California School of Professional Psychology. Here, I earned a M.A in applied psychology and Psy. D. in clinical psychology with a dual emphasis in forensics and family therapy. My research consisted of working with high risk sexual offenders. Following my time on the west coast, I worked as a Staff Psychologist and Assistant Professor at a local university. In my free time, I train in combat arts and play guitar (try at least ;-).

I believe the best work happens when you feel comfortable, understood, and supported. My goal is to create a space where you can be yourself—no pressure, no judgment, and no need to have everything figured out before you start. We’ll work together to explore what’s bringing you in, what matters most to you, and what you’d like to change or better understand.

I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all approaches. Each person is different, so our work will be tailored to your needs, your goals, and your pace. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, going through a transition, or simply wanting to better understand yourself, I’m here to help you move forward in a way that feels manageable and authentic.

What I Bring to Our Work

• A welcoming, nonjudgmental space
• Thoughtful listening and honest, compassionate feedback
• A balance of insight and practical tools you can use outside of sessions
• Support that’s personalized to you, not a preset formula

If you’re looking for someone who is easy to talk to, genuinely supportive, and invested in your growth, I’d be glad to work with you and see if we’re a good fit.

Mental health has long been treated as the forgotten side of healthcare — and for me, that's exactly why it matters so much. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving clients across California through telehealth and in-person care, I specialize in helping people navigate depression, anxiety, and ADD/ADHD. I believe that when mental health struggles go unaddressed, everything else in life suffers — and that healing is not only possible, it's necessary. When I'm not supporting my clients, you'll find me out in nature, getting lost in a good movie, or discovering new music — small reminders of the joy and balance I encourage my clients to find for themselves.

I am a therapist with a Masters in Social Work from California State University, Sacramento.

I have worked with children, teens, families and adults for over 10 years. I specialize in trauma-focused care, while I have also helped with many life challenges and mental health needs.

I help people deal with life when it feels like a roller coaster, where there are ups & downs, sudden twists & turns and constant turbulence. I can help you cope with the ride, give you reassurance and help build a bridge to help you access what you need. I will eventually challenge you to steer the ride without me to ensure you can live your life independently.

Hello!

My name is Aldemar. I have 30 years of experience in the field of mental health, in various capacities. I have a degree in Psychology from Sonoma State University and a Master's degree from Sacramento State University. I specialize in trauma work, Anxiety, Couples therapy, and substance use issues.

I am glad you are here. I commend you for having taken the difficult step to ask for support! I do know that it can feel overwhelming to start therapy, yet here you are; congratulations!

I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with over 20 years of experience in the field. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, relationship and family issues. I have worked with youth and adults in outpatient, community mental health, and forensic settings. I have experience in individual, group, family therapy, psychological evaluations, academic research.

I believe that the client, not the therapist, is the expert in their own life. My goal is to support and guide my clients see their strengths, increase self-awareness, and build new skills so that they can learn how to live a more satisfying life and develop healthy relationships with themselves and others.