3 Best Marriage Counselors in Costa Mesa, CA

“Dr. Ava Kate Oleson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in therapy for women. She is the founder of Next Steps Counseling for Women. She earned her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Fuller Theological Seminary's Graduate School of Psychology and later completed a Doctor of Education in Leadership from Evangel University, where her doctoral research focused on the psychological and characterological competencies essential for sustained impact among professional, goal-oriented women in the 21st century. With over 25 years of experience, she has dedicated her career to mental health and leadership development for women. Her therapeutic approach is collaborative and strengths-based, aiming to empower clients by exploring personal goals, recognizing inherent strengths, and developing tools for personal growth. Dr. Oleson offers online therapy sessions, providing flexibility for clients.”

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“Sue Shepard completed her education with a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University in 1998, followed by a 14-year career as a Business Analyst at IBM. She taught for 14 years in Coastline Community College's Acquired Brain Injury Program and is a member of the California Association of Marriage & Family Therapists (CAMFT). Sue Shepard is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over two decades of experience, offering in-person therapy services. Her practice focuses on helping individuals and couples navigate a variety of emotional and relational challenges. Sue's therapy sessions often include Izzi, her friendly rescue dog, who provides a calming presence for clients during appointments.”

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“Mark Howerton has over 20 years of experience in counseling, specializing in areas such as ADHD, anxiety, marital and premarital issues, life transitions, and parenting challenges. He is known for his warm, compassionate approach and humanistic therapeutic style, aiming to help clients become the healthiest and happiest versions of themselves. Mark Howerton is a highly skilled and respected Marriage and Family Therapist with over fifteen years of counseling experience. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Cincinnati Christian University and a Master of Science in Counseling from California State University, Fullerton. Mark empowers clients to find solutions and guides them along a safe path of self-discovery. He also offers a complimentary 15-minute consultation to his patients.”

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