Barek Sharif LMFT
Counselor/Therapist | Mental Health
26010 ACERO MISSION VIEJO CA, 92691About
I'm Dr. Barek Sharif. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and primarily work with men (personal and societal issues/pressures) and couples to re-establish a healthier perspective of their personal, emotional, and relational challenges. No one wakes up and feels badly about themselves or their situations – this occurs over time. And it oftentimes results in emotional pain and discomfort. Our work focuses on recognizing unhealthy ways we think and speak (with ourselves and others), and we integrate more neutral and compassionate speech.
Education and Training
Alliant University Psy.D 2023
Vanguard University M.S. 2013
Provider Details
Barek Sharif LMFT's Expert Contributions
Should I go to therapy for anxiety?
This question is more complex than a 'yes' or 'no' response. It does sound like you have been struggling with anxiety for a bit and it is important to get to the source of your anxiety in order to improve your marriage, and possibly other areas of your life that anxiety is affecting. Therapy is definitely a beneficial experience, medication could also help. Having someone like a therapist to talk to can make a huge difference for some individuals - simply by having a non-judgmental and objective point of view. Research has shown that medication is most effective when combined with therapy. I hope that you are able to make an informed decision that suits your needs. READ MORE
How long is a psychotherapy course for anxiety?
Good morning. There are many different online tools and resources that vary in terms of length and depth of education. PESI and SAMHSA can be great resources for information and education. If you are having difficulty with managing your anxiety and online education doesn't seem to help, then you may want to consider therapy and/or medication. READ MORE
What is the best treatment for OCD?
You are a great friend for seeking information to help someone that is likely experiencing disruptions in their life from OCD. OCD is an anxiety-based disorder that manifests through compulsive behaviors. Some of the most effective, and evidence-based, treatments for OCD are behavioral therapies. These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Finding a therapist that uses these models can help your friend manage the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to their compulsive behaviors. READ MORE
Is therapy better than antidepressants for depression?
This is a very common question. According to DeRubeis, Siegle, & Hollon (2008), cognitive therapies appear to be as effective as medication. Where therapy stands out is the longitudinal benefits of therapy versus medication. The severity of depression will be a factor in how quickly symptoms will decrease. Another effective method would be combining medication with therapy, and over time titrating the medication as symptoms improve. READ MORE
How long is a psychotherapy course for depression?
I responded to a similar question regarding anxiety. If you have been struggling with depression it is important to identify contributors of your depression and ways to manage it. Some online resources can be found through PESI and SAMHSA. If these don't seem to help with your depression then you may want to consider therapy and/or medication. In conjunction, they can be very effective with addressing depressive symptoms. READ MORE
Can ADHD be treated with psychotherapy?
I appreciate you seeking help for your daughter. Millions of Americans struggle with ADHD and many have difficulty with choosing an individualized form of treatment. Psychotherapy is an effective way of managing ADHD. It won't eliminate it but therapy can help with developing coping skills, identifying factors that exacerbate ADHD, and improve communication regarding ADHD symptoms. If medication is off the table, then psychotherapy can be helpful. READ MORE
Areas of expertise and specialization
Faculty Titles & Positions
- Adjust Professor Alliant University 2023 - 2023
Professional Memberships
- American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy
- California Association for Marriage and Family Therapists
Barek Sharif LMFT's Practice location
Barek Sharif LMFT's reviews
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Nearby Providers
- Moniqua E. Christensen4425 Jamboree Rd Newport Beach CA 92660