Best Psychologists in Garden Grove

Introduction to Psychology and its Importance in Garden Grove

Overview of Psychology as a Medical Specialty

Psychology is a field of study that focuses on understanding human behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. As a medical specialty, it plays a significant role in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, as well as promoting overall well-being.

Mental health care is an essential component of overall health and wellness. It affects how we think, feel, and act in our daily lives, influencing our relationships, work performance, and quality of life.

The Role of Psychologists in Garden Grove

In Garden Grove, psychologists and other mental health professionals play a key role in addressing common mental health issues such as anxiety disorders, depression, and relationship problems. They provide support and treatment tailored to the diverse needs of the local community.

Based on the data provided, mental health professionals in Garden Grove offer a wide range of services including psychotherapy, counseling, cognitive & behavioral psychology, and marriage & family therapy. Some practitioners, like Paul Hoang, also specialize in clinical social work and mental health services.

Navigating the Process of Choosing a Psychologist in Garden Grove

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Psychologist

Credentials and Specializations

• Review educational background (e.g., Paul Hoang from Loyola University, Kimberly Cravotta-Purvis from Vanguard University)
• Consider areas of expertise (e.g., Cognitive & Behavioral Psychology, Marriage & Family Therapy)

Experience and Patient Ratings

• Examine star ratings and number of reviews (e.g., Kimberly Cravotta-Purvis with 5.0 stars from 29 reviews)
• Look for practitioners with consistent positive feedback

Language and Cultural Considerations

• Check for multilingual providers (e.g., Paul Hoang speaks English and Vietnamese)
• Consider cultural competency for diverse patient needs

Understanding Different Types of Mental Health Professionals in Garden Grove

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW)

• Examples: Barbara Jacobs Fistanic, Laura Shames
• Focus on social work and psychotherapy

Marriage & Family Therapists (LMFT)

• Example: Kimberly Cravotta-Purvis
• Specializes in relationship and family issues

Clinical Social Workers with Multiple Specialties

• Example: Paul Hoang
• Offers a range of services including counseling and cognitive & behavioral psychology

Top-Rated Mental Health Professionals in Garden Grove

Kimberly Cravotta-Purvis, LMFT

Specializations and Expertise

• Marriage & Family Therapy
• Anxiety Disorders
• Psychotherapy

Patient Satisfaction

• Exceptional 5.0-star rating
• 29 patient reviews

Professional Background

• Education: Vanguard University (2004)
• Gender: Female
• Languages: English

Contact Information

• Phone: (949) 310-8417
• Visit Healthgrades profile for more details

Paul Hoang, MSW

Areas of Expertise

• Clinical Social Work
• Cognitive & Behavioral Psychology
• Marriage & Family Therapy
• Mental Health

Patient Feedback

• 5.0-star rating
• 2 patient reviews

Professional Information

• Education: Loyola University (Medical School, 2006)
• Gender: Male
• Languages: English, Vietnamese

Contact Details

• Phone: (949) 431-6374
• Healthgrades profile available for more information

Laura Shames, LCSW

Specializations

• Psychotherapy
• Counseling
• Clinical Social Work

Patient Satisfaction

• 5.0-star rating
• 2 patient reviews

Professional Background

• Education: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Undergraduate), Loyola University Chicago (1993)
• Gender: Female
• Languages: English

Additional Information

• Affiliated with Rula Health - California
• Healthgrades profile available for more details

Additional Resources for Finding the Right Psychologist in Garden Grove

Online Platforms and Directories

Healthgrades and other review websites

• Utilize Healthgrades for detailed provider information
• Compare ratings and reviews from multiple platforms

Local mental health associations

• Check Garden Grove-specific mental health resources
• Consult California Psychological Association for referrals

Leveraging Provider Information

Specializations and expertise

• Consider providers with relevant specialties (e.g., Anxiety Disorders, Couples Counseling)
• Look for psychologists with experience in your specific concerns

Language considerations

• Note multilingual providers (e.g., Paul Hoang speaks Vietnamese)
• Consider language preferences for effective communication

Practical Considerations

Location and accessibility

• Check provider addresses within Garden Grove
• Consider proximity to home or work for convenience

Insurance and payment options

• Verify if providers accept your insurance
• Inquire about self-pay rates and payment plans