As a therapist and clinical counselor, I help to hold the weight of anxiety, trauma, depression, and relational conflict, and encourage self acceptance. There is beauty in showing up for yourself, and bravery in turning towards struggle. When we deny our struggle, we deny a part of us that is longing to be seen. Struggle and suffering are hard to face, as it often leaves us feeling broken. Many of us were never taught to embrace our flaws and imperfections. What if we could see the broken pieces of ourselves, the parts of us that are scarred, and view them with compassion? What if we saw our scars as marks of courage and resiliency?
The journey towards wholeness includes accepting each part of ourselves, the part that is joyful, the part that laughs, the part that hurts, the part that feels empty. My work is based on the hope that we can step into our authentic selves, to feel without shame, accept our darkness, live mindfully in our own light, and recognize that who we are is enough.
Client Focus
Session Format: Couple, Individual sessions.
Age Specialty: Adult
Demographic Expertise: Men, Women clients.
Languages: English
Treatment Approach
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) One of the most widely used approaches, CBT helps people identify unhelpful thoughts and replace them with healthier patterns. It is effective for anxiety, depression, and many other concerns.
- Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) Builds skills in self-kindness and compassion toward others. It is especially helpful for people who struggle with shame or self-criticism.
- Experiential Therapy Involves hands-on activities to bring emotions into the present moment. It helps clients process feelings more deeply than through conversation alone.
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy Based on decades of research, this method gives couples tools to improve communication, manage conflict, and strengthen intimacy.
- Person-Centered Therapy (Rogerian) Emphasizes empathy, unconditional positive regard, and authenticity. It provides a safe space for self-discovery and growth.
Approach Description: I use an integrative approach when it comes to treatment modalities. My work is primarily informed by cognitive behavioral therapy. I have seen the therapeutic benefits that identifying and unraveling negative core beliefs and distortions can have on our emotions and ways of being. As a significant part of my goal as a therapist is to promote self-worth and acceptance, I integrate experiential, person centered, and compassion focused treatment into my work. So many of us want to run away from the parts of ourselves that we perceive as problematic or painful. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental, and authentic space for individuals and couples to process pain and connect to joy.
Fees & Insurance
Fees
- Average Session Fee $175
- Affordable sliding scale therapy: apply if you may be eligible.
- I offer sliding scale, please contact me with any questions regarding fees. Please note that pricing for couples and family therapy may differ from individual session pricing.
- Accepts Insurance
- Currently accepting Cigna and United/Optum.
Education & Credentials
Emma Esper LMFT, LPCC
- Female
- License # LMFT 137235, LPCC 14998
- Licensed in California
- Practicing Since 2019
Education: I received my Bachelors of Arts in Psychology and Social Behavior at the University of California Irvine in 2016 and my Masters of Science in Counseling Psychology in 2020 from California State University Long Beach.
Emma Esper Practice Details
Therapy Sessions
- Available In-Person in Newport Beach, CA 92660 and Long Beach, CA 90803
- Available Online for residents of California
- Online Therapy Details: Teletherapy through confidential visual platforms
I provide a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental environment, promoting authenticity and instilling hope. I believe in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship. If you are ready to take these courageous steps, I would be honored to be a part of your light.
“I am not learning to escape my darkness. I am learning to love myself there” –Rune Lazuli