Choosing to enter into therapy can be a difficult decision. Sometimes it is a growing discontentment, or resentment. Other times it is a betrayal, abandonment, or painful event. What ever your experience may be, I am committed to supporting you in this process. 

There are so many therapists out there, how do I know I am getting the right one?

Searching for a therapist can be overwhelming and daunting. Click here, and I would be happy to talk with you in more detail about what brings you into therapy, and what to look for in a therapist. In the mean time here are a couple of things to keep in mind. Check a therapist's qualifications such as their degree, specialties, and expertise. If they have at least a master's degree in counseling and have experience in what you are wanting from therapy, that is a good start. I believe one of the most important aspects to your experience in therapy is how you feel in the presence of the therapist. One way to get a feel for that, is to call the therapist and pay attention to how you feel. If you feel at ease, and feel like the therapist understands you, the therapist might be a great fit.

What can I expect from therapy?

Making the decision to go to therapy can be difficult and requires courage, so it can be normal to feel nervous or uncertain. I am committed to supporting you through this process, and believe the more comfortable you feel in the beginning sessions, the more open you will be. This will help provide a connection to be understood, seen, heard, and validated. My style of therapy is very warm and relational in nature, and believe our relationship will lead and guide the way of our therapy. In the first session, I will meet you in the waiting room at our appointment time, and lead you to my office. Once we have a seat, you will be given the space to begin to share your story and what brings you into therapy. By the end of the session we will discuss if we have a potential for a good therapeutic relationship and what your treatment will entail. 

How do I make an appointment?

Send me an email at DustinMFT@gmail.com or call me at 949-334-7718. Call for a free phone consultation to see how I might best support you. 

How often will we meet?

Most people come in once a week. If you desire deeper personal growth, more in depth work, or you are in a crisis I do see people twice a week as well. Once we have met your desired goals, or there is symptom reduction we will begin to reduce the frequency of our sessions. Standard practice of care is a minimum of once a week for 45 minutes.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes. I have a limited amount of availability for insurance, and I would be happy to discuss the insurances I am currently accepting and the times that are available. If you have a PPO, I can provide a superbill to submit to your insurance company to be reimbursed for out-of-network psychotherapy. I do accept TriCare. I would be happy to discuss how I might assist you in discovering what your insurance provides for therapy. 

How do you use spirituality/religion in therapy?

This is something that depends on your preferences. Some people like to talk openly about their doubts, struggles, concerns, and the importance their spirituality has on their life. They may seek spiritual renewal, and forgiveness from themselves and others as part of their healing and growth. For other people faith isn't something that comes up at all in session, and they prefer to talk about their feelings, thoughts, and relationships. For me personally, my faith and spirituality informs how I interact with every person. I strive to practice compassion and empathy, and have a listening heart, to give each person the space they need to be angry, sad, joyful, and everything in between. I feel God or a Higher Power is big enough to handle the good, the bad, and the ugly of our humanity, and meets us in our darkest moments with open arms. If you desire part of your therapy to be focused on spirituality, I would be happy to discuss this with you.

Do you speak at events or do workshops?

Yes. I enjoy speaking at schools, organizations, and churches. I have presented on topics ranging from parenting, marriage enrichment, the benefits of roughhousing with kids, depression, bi-polar, anxiety, spirituality, guilt and shame, and communication. If you would like to have me speak or do a workshop, feel free to contact me here.