A grounded, conversational presence.
I have walked through my own difficult seasons and with help, found my way to the other side. That life experience is something I believe makes a positive difference in all of my work.
My path to becoming a therapist was not a straight line.
I didn't take the typical course of going straight to college and graduate school to become a therapist. Instead, I started my career as a radio newscaster, then built and ran a public relations company representing physicians and medical related companies. Along the way, I learned how to truly listen, how to connect with people from all walks of life, and how to understand what makes us such unique people.
My life experiences shape how I listen, how I challenge, and how I connect with the people who sit across from me.
Later in my career, I worked as a psychiatric liaison in an emergency room, supporting individuals and families during some of the most intense moments of their lives. I also spent time as a Family Therapist in residential care working with teenagers and their families. It was such a privilege to help these families heal together and have hope for their future. Helping people through tough times is not just my profession. It is who I am.
Eventually, all of those experiences led me to the same place: the therapy chair. I earned my Master of Arts from Chapman University, where I was selected as the graduate commencement speaker, and I became a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Each time I walk into my office to begin a new day with clients, I bring everything I have lived and learned into what I do. I can't really call it "work" when I view it as an honor that people choose and trust me to help them through the most vulnerable and difficult times.
Direct, insightful, and deeply compassionate.
When you come to therapy with me, I am not going to sit back and simply agree with everything you say. You do not need me for that. You are here because something needs to shift, and my job is to help you see things from a different angle.
I connect quickly and I listen deeply. It does not take me long to see past the surface and get to what is really going on underneath. No matter your age or circumstance, I am always completely present and fully invested in your story.
I believe we can all be living our best possible lives. Sometimes things just get in the way. Therapy is about navigating those challenges so you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Therapy?+
This is one of the most common questions. My first thought is, "if you could have figured this out on your own, you would have." That means you are looking for something...someone...to support and guide you through this time. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Therapy can help any of us gain insight, process emotions, and live a more meaningful life.
What is a complimentary consultation?+
It is a complimentary 20-minute phone call where we talk about what is bringing you to therapy and whether I am the right fit. There is no obligation and no pressure. If I am not the right therapist for you, I will do my best to connect you with someone who is.
Do you see clients in person or virtually?+
I see clients at my Newport Beach, CA office and through secure virtual sessions. For couples, I do ask that you attend at least your first session in person, as so much important information comes through in the room. New clients must be located in CA.
How often will we meet?+
That depends on your needs and what we are working on together. Most clients start with weekly sessions. As you make progress, we may adjust the frequency together.
How long does therapy take?+
There is no set number of sessions. Whatever brought you to therapy did not happen in a day, and you will not work through it in a day. Therapy is a process, and I ask that you trust that process. I will be right there with you for as long as you need.
What is Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT)?+
EFCT is an evidence-based approach to couples therapy developed by Dr. Sue Johnson. Rather than focusing on the content of your arguments, we look at the emotional patterns underneath. Most couples argue in the same cycle regardless of the topic. EFCT helps you understand that cycle, access the deeper emotions driving it, and rebuild a secure, lasting connection with your partner.
What should I expect in a first session?+
The first session is about getting to know each other. I will find out more about what brought you to therapy, what you are hoping to work on, and a bit about your history. It is a conversation, not an interrogation. My goal is for you to leave that first session feeling heard, understood, and hopeful about the work ahead.
Is everything I share confidential?+
Yes. Everything you share in session is confidential and protected by law, with a few narrow exceptions required by California law, which I will explain during our first meeting.
Do you accept insurance?+
I am a private-pay practice. I do not bill insurance directly. However, I can provide a super bill that you can submit to your insurance company for possible out-of-network reimbursement.
Training & licensure
- Betsy Fitzpatrick, MA, LMFT
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, California License #100184
- Master of Arts, Chapman University (Graduate Commencement Speaker)
- Advanced Training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT)
- Advanced Training in Grief Therapy
I see clients both in person at my Newport Beach office and through secure virtual sessions. I am licensed in the state of California, so all clients must be California residents.