Business Details
47 Years
experience
Your Trusted Psychologist in Mission Viejo, CA
Dr. Virginia Watford is a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience in private practice, dedicated to providing compassionate mental health care. Specializing in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and Attachment Theory, she offers tailored treatment plans for adults and couples. Her practice addresses anxiety, depression, marital challenges, and postpartum issues, among other concerns. Dr. Watford holds a Doctorate in Psychology from the University of California, Irvine, and has served as an instructor at Rancho Santiago Community College. She is a member of the American Psychological Association and has contributed to community mental health initiatives, including founding Orange County's first postpartum support group.Her approach emphasizes creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment to foster healing and personal growth. With expertise in both inpatient and outpatient settings, she combines evidence-based practices with personalized care. Dr. Watford's commitment to professional development includes postdoctoral training at Long Beach Neuropsychiatric Hospital and ongoing engagement with psychological associations. Her practice in Mission Viejo, California, reflects decades of dedication to improving mental well-being through therapy grounded in empathy and clinical excellence.
Services
Anxiety Disorders
Depression Treatment
Marital Counseling
Postpartum Support
Stress Management
Grief Counseling
Anger Management
Bipolar Disorder
Panic Disorders
Parenting Skills
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- We offer over 30 years of experience in psychological therapy.
- Our practice specializes in evidence-based methods like MBCT and IPT.
- We provide personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs.
- Our founder established Orange County's first postpartum support group.
- We accept major insurance plans for accessible care.
Services
Anxiety Disorders
Specialized treatment for anxiety disorders using Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy techniques. Our approach helps patients identify and manage automatic negative thoughts while developing mindfulness skills to reduce symptoms and improve daily functioning for adults and couples.
Marital Counseling
Interpersonal Therapy focused on improving relationship dynamics and resolving conflicts. We address communication patterns, attachment needs, and trust issues to foster healthier connections. Sessions help couples navigate challenges like separation, infidelity, or life transitions while building stronger emotional bonds.
Postpartum Support
Targeted therapy for postpartum emotional challenges, including anxiety and depression. Drawing from Attachment Theory, we address the trauma of isolation and help mothers develop secure bonds with their infants. Our practice includes experience leading support groups to connect patients with community resources and peer networks.
Depression Treatment
Comprehensive care for depression using evidence-based methods like Interpersonal Therapy. We explore links between symptoms and life events such as loss or job changes while incorporating mindfulness practices to enhance emotional regulation. Treatment plans address both immediate concerns and long-term coping strategies for sustained recovery.
Stress Management
Therapeutic techniques to address chronic stress through mindfulness meditation and cognitive restructuring. We help patients identify stress triggers, develop present-moment awareness, and implement behavioral changes to reduce physical and emotional symptoms. Sessions focus on practical tools for managing work-life balance and environmental stressors.
People
Dr. Virginia Watford
Licensed Psychologist
Dr. Watford is a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience in private practice. She earned her Doctorate in Psychology from UC Irvine and has held teaching roles at Rancho Santiago Community College. Her expertise includes MBCT, IPT, and Attachment Theory for adults and couples.
Questions
What types of therapy do you offer?
We specialize in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and Attachment Theory approaches for adults and couples.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes, we are in-network with Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Cigna, Blue Shield, and several other major insurance plans.
What are your office hours?
Monday-Thursday 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM, Friday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Closed weekends and major holidays.
How much do sessions cost?
Standard 45-minute sessions cost $150 for self-pay patients. Insurance patients are charged according to carrier contract terms.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Mission Viejo and surrounding Orange County communities for in-person therapy sessions.
How can I schedule an appointment?
Call us directly at 949-348-2850 to discuss your needs and schedule your first session with Dr. Watford.
