Family Counseling Services in Mission Viejo, CA.

Sometimes family members just can't seem to get along. Parents and children may experience a heightened amount of conflict turning the teen years; one parent may be too enmeshed with the kids, leaving the other one out; brothers and sisters may fight; new families don't blend as expected. Whatever the issue, family counseling can surely help. I will meet you all and examine each persons ability to solve problems and express thoughts and emotions. Together, we will work towards identifying the family's strengths and weaknesses in effort to overcome unhealthy ways of relating to each other. We will work towards improving communication and resolving conflicts in effort to bring you closer.

Family relationships can be stressful and challenging. There may be anger, arguments, grief & loss, mental or physical illness, unresolved trauma, abuse, neglect, betrayal, financial or occupational challenges that create distress in the family system. Healthy family members have open, honest and compassionate communication. They hear, know and understand each other. They take responsibility and are accountable for their impact on each other. They show love and care through affection, attention, appreciation, being of service, spending quality time with and being there for each other. I guide you in developing the skills, qualities and habits needed to get your family to a better place!

I specialize in helping families find harmony within the home. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, families, and children of all ages. Whether you are dealing with a family conflict, a difficult transition, or a new challenge, I am here to help. My practice focuses on providing a safe and supportive environment for all family members. I will work with you to identify the underlying causes of the conflict and develop strategies for improving family relationships. I believe that all family dynamics are unique and strive to provide each family with the attention and care they need.

I use a family systems approach in my therapy, so having family members in the room, in my opinion, is the most efficient route towards healing and growth in individuals. I encourage clients to address relationships that are causing distress in their lives and work towards healthy differentiation of self. This can be done in individual therapy as well, but is more effective when all members of the relationship are present.

I work within a family framework, but I do not treat families as part of traditional "family therapy." This means that if you are a parent and you struggle with your child's behavior, I can help you learn techniques to manage the behavior better. I have extensive experience working with parents of children with autism and other mental health disorders that can make parenting extremely challenging. There is no shame in asking for support. I can help with creating a parenting plan, I can help with co-parenting after divorce, and I can help parents who care for their own aging relatives. We truly live in the "sandwich generation" where family can grow far.

Let me guess. One partner feels alone and like they don't matter and the other feels they are always being criticized and can't get anything right. The more one asks for the other to show up, the more the partner disappears physically and emotionally. You both bicker and fight and the idea of sitting and just hanging out seems elusive, if not impossible. Something like this? Often we crave connection but are blocked by the pain and the history that gets in the way. Small fights about little things become battles that highlight our struggle to have our basic relational needs met. I can help you get under the bickering to the parts crying out for connection- to an enriching relationship.

Dr. Laura Adams is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Psychoanalyst in South Orange County CA. Dr. Adams has extensive experience working with couples, individuals and families dealing with communication problelms, anger, teenager issues, blended families, and gay/ lesbian issues. For an appointment please go to www.SouthOCTherapist.com or call Dr. Laura directly at (949) 244-1992