Therapist in Costa Mesa, California Marian Cao, Therapist

Marian Cao, LMFT, provides compassionate and collaborative mental health support to children, adolescents, and adults across California. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals and families, Marian works alongside her clients to help them achieve their personal goals at a pace that feels comfortable and manageable. Her practice focuses on creating a safe and welcoming space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Whether addressing childhood behavior issues, managing anxiety, or navigating complex family dynamics, Marian’s approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and mutual trust.



Marian is particularly passionate about treating ADHD, childhood behavior issues, and PTSD/trauma. She helps clients better understand these challenges while fostering resilience and growth. Marian’s expertise extends to school avoidance and academic stress, supporting children and teens in overcoming obstacles that interfere with their education and well-being. Additionally, she brings a nuanced understanding of cultural diversity and acculturation, helping immigrant families navigate the complexities of balancing cultural values with life in a new environment.



In her practice, Marian incorporates a range of evidence-based therapeutic modalities tailored to her clients' needs. These include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Family Therapy. She also offers Christian Counseling for those who wish to integrate faith into their mental health journey. Marian serves diverse populations, including women and individuals in adoption or foster care, ensuring a personalized and inclusive approach for every client.



Fluent in Vietnamese, Marian is uniquely equipped to support clients from Vietnamese-speaking communities, providing culturally informed care to meet their specific needs. Her ability to communicate across languages enhances her capacity to build strong therapeutic relationships and address the unique experiences of each client.



Outside of her professional life, Marian enjoys coffee shop hopping, hiking, and cleaning as forms of self-care. These activities reflect her appreciation for balance, mindfulness, and connection, which she brings into her therapeutic work.