Lynda has been an absolute godsend to my mental health journey! She is a great listener, kind and very knowledgeable. I always look forward to our sessions. They have become a meaningful part of my weekly routine. I'd recommend giving Lynda a try if you're looking for a solid therapist. read more

Possibly the worst therapist ive ever had, she will actively dismiss facts if she feels it doesnt support her narrative, a narrative she will push on you even after being asked to stop. In my opinion, a therapist needs to accept a client isnt going to blindly follow instructions for life, and the therapist shouldnt be offended by that. Lynda gets very defensive if you dont do as she says completely, and will offer very little actual emotional coping/regulation skills. Im only leaving this review because its been months since ive seen her, and at least once a week something she says pops into my mind and i shake my head, and feel the need to warn others about this woman. read more

The sheer incompetence and diabolical nature of this individual begs the question of her motives for being in this line of work. I had the misfortune of meeting Lynda Green at the lowest point in my life because she took my insurance and my 1 session with her was one of the most traumatizing experiences in my very dark battle. Irresponsible, manipulative and outright unfit as a therapist, Lynda Green has a particular knack for projecting her own bad experiences in life onto her clients and has zero regard for what you need to get better. I, as well as the others who have given Lynda a 1 star review have taken the matter up with the CA Board of Psychology and if there is any justice in the world, Lynda Green will be forced to no longer practice psychology and therapy. Stay away from this person, especially in matters of parent-child issues. You have been seriously warned. read more

Lynda is the therapist I needed all of my life. This world needs more people like Lynda. Not only does she not sugar coat anything and says the truth like it is (which is exactly what is needed) she says it out of pure love. I so appreciate her knowledge and expertise in the field because every input she has towards therapy is really captured in everything she knows. She truly is 1 in 8 billion and I am the luckiest client to have found her. She will change your life. read more

Unprofessional , bully mentality , pushes you to the edge, condescending, forgetful of what you speak about , so you have to repeat yourself over and over, inconsiderate of your time, if she is having a bad day she will take it out on you in session, fakes compassion you can feel her negative energy. She is very smart and analytical, but not worth it. The negative immensely outweighs the positive. I absolutely do not recommend read more

She's super abrasive. I don't know how she even has a license to practice therapy. It's definitely not for her personality at all. One star only because she's punctual and has a nice office. Her personality: Only she can be right. It's always my fault. I'm a child. Rude. Condescending. Projection of her experiences. Tina's review says, "diabolical." That's dead on. All the 1 star reviews on here were exactly my experience believe it or not. I wouldn't waste a good bit of time writing this if the stories weren't true. I walked out of this appointment today after she kept grilling me on late cancelling two past appointments. Yes, I messed up... but I still wanted to keep going... Didn't mind the grilling too bad, but when it got to the word twisting and zero listening... I walked out. Don't waste your time on Lynda. Her no bs approach is great. But... it's coupled with a side of attitude. So yes Lynda, "it's my fault" and "these are things a child would say..." My advice, go with any other therapist. Even a school guidance counselor would be better. Anything is better than dealing with a nutty lady. It's too bad an education couldn't buy you some manners Lynda. I disagree with Mary's review. Us 1 star review people do want to grow... it's just hard when you are dealing with an entitled narcissist specialist. I don't know how you can stand her. I went to multiple appointments here. Glad I can close this chapter of my life now. Cheers Lynda! read more

Lynda Green-Alter, LMFT - Nice office at least... - Counseling & Mental Health Near Me - Irvine, California

I have enjoyed being treated by Mrs. Green-Alter she points out different perspectives, gives simple and helpful tips, is very empathetic, and a joy to be around. I have noticed a change in my thoughts and behaviors for the better with the tools she's provided. I am grateful to have found her and have recommended 2 other close friends to her services. Some of these negative reviews on here are a glimpse of certain people not knowing that therapy is hard and uncomfortable. It requires for you to be open to hear and see things you don't like about yourself and or others. Also I think people expect to be fixed in one session and it doesn't work like that. A lot of these negative reviews are people who are unhealed and deflecting. My suggestion book a session and see if it's a good fit for you. (Keep an open mind and get ready to be uncomfortable for the better) read more

Straight talk no BS, get to the bottom of things quickly. I am lucky to have found her. All negative reviews on here are because the authors don't want to get better, they want to stay dependent. It is refreshing to have a therapist that is considerate of my time and financial situation, by helping me recognizing the core of my problem quickly and not allowing me to play the dependent victim week to week on the couch. read more

The expert care and comfort I've found during my time with Lynda compares to nothing else, Lynda has helped me through some of the darkest and hardest times in my life and taught me that getting the care I need and making myself a priority leads me to better days, and she was right! I'm grateful for her support especially when life gets rough and throws me a curve ball like it did again last week. I feel my own reserves start to kick in now and help me navigate a way forward and with Lynda's guidance. From the safe space we've established the low points don't seem to last as long. It's been a long, long road and Lynda's been there for me to lean on. If you need a professional to help you find your feet again, Lynda might just be the one you're looking for, I don't know what I'd do without her. So, so very thankful I found her. read more

Lynda Green-Alter, LMFT - Counseling & Mental Health Near Me - Irvine, California

See all

I have been seeing Lynda on a weekly basis for almost a year and there is one thing she does which I appreciate is tell the truth. Sometimes the truth is hard to hear and uncomfortable but Lynda is a straight shooter. I can only speak from my own experience with her as a counselor and I've grown to love and appreciate her honesty and humor. The whole reason we go to therapy is to be counseled and told things that we cannot see for ourselves so we can grow. We were all created differently and have had different experiences both good and bad but I do not think you should shoot the messenger for delivering a much needed message . read more

Lynda is a great therapist and has helped me heal, grow and change. She is empathetic to my feelings but also guides me through accountability and the uncomfortable work required for change. Very positive experience. read more

She was rude, short, condescending, passive aggressive, and sarcastic. I addressed her passive aggression when she asked why I wasn't opening up. She proceeded to lecture me on the Oxford definition of passive aggression and didn't change her approach at all. When I decided to open up anyways, she asked if I was a child because the things I had to say were things a child would complain about. It was a very sour, uncomfortable, and time wasting experience. Wouldn't recommend to anyone. read more

I saw Lynda for several months after a NDE and she was patient with my "slow to warm" mannerisms. Instead of taking the approach of pleasing me by saying what I wanted to hear, she said what I absolutely needed to hear. In my opinion, the purpose of therapy is just that. If you are ready to fully internalize, lead conversations, dig into your history and empower yourself, I 100% recommend Lynda. - If you need to change your appointment time or need assistance I recommend texting because she is very busy Also... the waiting area usually has a bowl of chocolates so Woohoo! read more

I am grateful to have met Lynda. It's been a few months but I no longer feel overwhelmed and helpless. The progress is slow but I feel my mental health has improved because of the tools I was provided. I see my issues in a more positive calm perspective. Lynda's straightforward approach is my type of style and I love it. Definitely recommend! read more

I am writing to express my gratitude for the exceptional therapy services she has provided me. HEADS UP, she has a straightforward and honest approach... if you are looking for someone to agree with you, she is not the one. I needed to work through the issues I was facing, and she gave me great tools to do so. Her ability to be straightforward and tell it like it is made me feel uncomfortable and empowered to confront the challenges I had been avoiding. Her ability to help me see things from a different perspective was invaluable in my journey toward healing. As a result, I am gaining a deeper understanding of myself and my behavior patterns. Without her approach, I'd be unable to identify and address the root causes of my challenges instead of just addressing the symptoms. So again, if you are looking for a "yes Ma'am" you are barking up the wrong tree. Thank you, Lynda, for your commitment to your clients and your passion for your work. I recommend your services to anyone seeking therapy. read more

Lynda Green Alter is the worst of therapists. Her so called 'tools' helped my divorce move forward, when my ex and I needed help most, instead of help mend my marriage. Before seeing Lynda, my ex and I were seeing an excellent LMFT named, Cindy Fazendin. We took a break from Cindy because she had helped us make so much progress in working through some issues but when we hit another bad place in our marriage, and decided to go back to Cindy for help again she was full and couldn't see us, just then, so she referred us to someone new in her medical building (Lynda), temporarily, thinking she might help. Unbeknownst to us, until later, when I complained to Cindy about Lynda she told me she had recently received complaint, after complaint and so Cindy was no longer referring clients to her. Unfortunately, it was too late for my ex and I by then.... Lynda did not care about us. She only wanted the insurance money. She tried to see both of us on an on going basis, privately, but when you do marriage counseling Cindy told us that is never a good idea because it causes trust issues...and it did! Lynda also tried to get me to agree to having her see our young daughter, individually, as well but by then I could see she did not know what she was doing and I wasn't about to agree to this. When my ex and I were still married and seeing Lynda she had us do all these assignments. I always did mine and my ex never did his but she never followed through with them anyway. Also she never called him on on the fact that he didn't do his part nor his lack of effort. Her recommendations never helped. She laughed and joked with my ex like they were, 'old buds' leaving me out of the conversation while my insurance was paying for all this which was very unprofessional, insulting and made me feel like she was siding with him. She would even cue and prompt him so it was easy for him to say he was leaving our marriage. She did not know how to help. I'm not surprised to see other complaints on this site, as well. She has had complaint after complaint. She should have her license revoked, in my opinion! She will harm rather than help...stay far, far away. read more

Very good kind psychologist, she has a good combination of compassion and directness. I personally love people who say things how they are and help you take accountability. I have been working with her through some very depressing times of my life and she has been a true blessing. Thank you Dr Lynda for your excellent work and a positive impact on my life. read more

One star because she was on time. Please read this and all of her reviews before you decide to go to see her. First two minutes she looked over my papers. Started off right away with a slight condescending remark that "well, that's my fault". so, I agree but ask for some possible solutions. She again told me to decide what I want and move on. I was not going to change anyone and had nothing to offer as far as what I came to talk about. By now I can tell she does not like me questioning her responses. Went on to another topic and again with pencil pointing at me, her only answer was "it's your fault". So, I am feeling very alone, almost frightened by her and this lady proceeds to verbally blaming me for everything I came to look for solution to. I am telling you...she literally is the most harsh, inapporropriate, so called "professional" you will ever meet. I am emotionally shocked at this point and it has only been 29 minutes. The most rude, condesending, outspoken person I have ever met! She claims in her Bio she practicies off of "Christian Principle" WOW, if she is a Christian she needs to start making some changes in her own life. I asked her why she thought everything was at my fault and that really set her off! She was getting heating and feeling alone, I said in a soft tone, well I guess I'm done. I am shocked. Came in feeling like I had an even larger load and very belittled by someone whom I never met. If that pencil had pointed at me one more time, I was going to run out! I stand up and she then tells me to "get out of her office" . No Lie!!! Of course she wants to be paid, while in shock and in silence pull out a card, why am I paying? Did you not just throw me out after 25 min total verbal bashing? So, I asked her if she ever has any ideas to offer to her clients other "shame blamming? Without answering me and I am still in "shock calm" she now orders me to "get out of her office"! NO LIE I was in shock, could not find a word to say if I had to. Don't take the chance of being ridiculed as I did. It hurts! read more

What can a person write about someone who has helped me change my life? My life is brighter and lighter now that I am using the tools added to my toolbox of life. Lynda has helped guide me to that. I am willing to listen. I am willing to share. Therapy can be scary at first, but with Lynda you can tell she genuinely wants you to be the best version of yourself. The fear slowly starts to slip away. I have learned to ask questions, not make everything about myself, recognize when I am people pleasing, and when I slip into codependency on people I talk to her. My life will always be a work in progress. To have found someone who I trust in a world full of monsters is something I will always cherish. If you want some of that, then go see Lynda. read more

Lynda has helped me so much! She is a great sounding board and always keeps it real with me. She is a straight shooter and has helped me realize hard truths that have untimely helped me work through challenges and become a better version of myself. She has also recommended books and different resources to support me in addition to our working together that I have found very beneficial. I'm so grateful for all her help and highly recommend working with her. read more

Lynda has all the qualities of an excellent therapist in my opinion. She is a great blend of empathy and coaching. She is extremely bright and knows what she's talking about. How do I know this you may ask? Well, I ask a lot of questions and she has such wise answers. I've had several "aha moments" with her. I've been working hard to improve a few areas in life and her guidance combined with my efforts in applying her suggestions are showing me that I have tools to make the life changes I want. We are a team -- I think that when you choose a therapist you can only hope you make a great team. She makes me laugh a lot and sometimes I am even "uncomfortable" with her "tough/true" advice ....BUT when I test out her advice and apply it to my life... it's proof to me that she is right and knows exactly what she is doing. I love the results I'm seeing... I'm getting free of the "icks"! Like some of the other reviews said, she doesn't sugar coat the truth... which I personally LOVE! She goes the extra mile in caring for her patients and has earned my trust. Her office is lovely, peaceful and welcoming. She's been a therapist for a super long time and I admire her "couch side manner" very much! read more

Lynda tells you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear. You can tell she genuinely wants to help you. She has given me lots of tools to handle some very difficult situations in my life. I am beyond grateful for her help over the past few years. read more

Dr. Green's waiting room is one of the most calmest I've been in. A sound machine, dim lighting and great warm colors on the walls. Dr. Green called me back the same day I requested an appointment with her which is great, plus I got in to see her the next day. I only saw Dr. Green this one time. Dr. Green was very pleasing and nice over the phone and in person until we ran into a problem that was a simple mistake and a quick fix on my end. But Dr. Green blew it WAY out of proportion. Once in session, Dr. Green was going over my paperwork and voiced one of my issues out loud without empathy or compassion and in a condescending belittling tone! This really upset me! Plus she literally slammed a piece of paper (on her side table) that I knew I didn't need to fill out and Dr. Green said in an angry voice, "DIDN'T FILL THIS OUT EITHER!!" I personally don't like her method of therapy; it just doesn't match my personality. It seems as if it's a "SHOCK AND AWE" method. I really don't need much to realize something. I'm sure she's a great help to those who respond well to this kind of therapy and aren't not offended by Dr. Green's VERY UNPROFESSIONAL attitude. read more

NO STARS for this psycho. She needs professional help herself. The way she treated my child was completely unprofessional, insulting and just downright mean. We were trying to celebrate positives in my child's progress and she completely turned it around to the negative. This is really helpful when your child is depressed. She should not be allowed to see children under any circumstances. It took a lot of self control not to scream and yell at her. She should have her license revoked. We went to another therapist that knew how to relate to kids and my daughter is much better thanks to a PROFESSIONAL THERAPIST THAT KNOWS HOW TO WORK WITH CHILDREN!!! It's sickening to think someone like this is allowed to practice!!! AWFUL!! read more

My husband and I started seeing Lynda prior to getting married five years ago and she has helped us through various instances ever since. She is not the average therapist who only listens to how you are feeling. She has a direct approach that we very much appreciate. We completely trust her as her guidance has gotten us through some tough places in our life. We are very grateful to have met her and had her as our marriage counselor through the years. read more

My husband and I have seen three therapists and Lynda by far has been the most effective. She provides us with the tools we need to communicate and reconnect, and we are enjoying the process of coming together as a married couple. Lynda is not for the weak minded. She gives it to you straight and in a direct tone. She does not walk on egg shells around us! And, she also is not shy to give her opinion. I gravitate towards Lynda's style and highly recommend her to anyone who is truly seeking change. From an office standpoint, Lynda has a beautifully decorated waiting area with music and unique paintings. She is always with clients which only proves how great she is! read more

Lynda has been an amazing help, there was often days when I disagreed so wholeheartedly... for about an hour lol, she's definitely not here to entertain any delusions, but if given the chance, she really does make you feel a little more heard and a little less alone. I went through life scared of never living my true potential but Lynda is helping me do just that! read more

Post pandemic I was lost and needing guidance. Lynda Green understood my needs quickly and has been a fantastic support in helping me through. She is direct and honest while being compassionate towards my growth! read more

I would give this person Zero stars. Very unprofessional, should not be treating teenagers or children, provides no tools, expects kids to come up with what they want to talk about, and if they don't she ends the session abruptly. She should not be practicing. Does not take time to get to know patient. Also has horrible phone etiquette, short, comes across uninterested and hangs up when finished without saying "goodbye". Again she should not be treating anyone. read more

Lynda is a really insightful and direct counselor. She is able to listen and asks open ended questions. My personal experience has been professional and impactful. I would recommend her services to those who like an honest approach. read more

Life can be challenging and sometimes you need some help to navigate the twists and turns. Lynda has provided me that guidance. She listens to my concerns and has given me new perspective with practical and useful tools. I appreciate Lynda. read more

Lynda will not coddle you. So if you are looking for that, go elsewhere. She gives useful tools to use and they really work! I am an admitted emotional wreck. There have been times when I am so caught up in my head about a situation and she has been the only successful person to snap me out of it. It really is a modern day miracle. One review says that she is a bully? Uhm, WTF? No. I am someone who has a tendency to let people walk all over me and she has given me the gift of self-confidence. If someone is doing something that is not conducive to a successful relationship, she will say "stop it". I would say that is the exact opposite of a bully actually. If you can't take the heat, get out of the kitchen! read more

I am leaving this review because I feel my wife and I have been wronged, deeply, by the interaction we had with Lynda. She was interruptive, showed no empathy and took the position of speaking down to us from the start. This was so grievous; we terminated our first session 20 minutes early. Save yourself the disruptive personal and family grief and hurt that can happen here. Close your eyes, open a directory of therapists, and point your finger at any therapist listed and you will be better off. Good Luck. read more

I've only had one session with Lynda and I can already tell that I like her immensely. I am an APCC (Associate Professional Clinical Counselor) which means that I am working on becoming a licensed LPCC (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor). I started seeing her b/c even therapists need a therapist. Since I am in the profession, I know exactly what to look for in another therapist and I felt that Lynda (although ... like I said ... it's only been one session) was great. She was sympathetic, straightforward (which I like), and supportive. I was/am disturbed to see these other reviews and can't imagine her doing and/or saying any of these things that others have claimed. She was willing to work with me on scheduling and it was nice to have someone to "talk shop" with since we're both in the profession. I thought about waiting until I have had a few sessions with her to leave a review b/c of all of these other reviews, but I think first impressions are usually correct. Especially in my experience. So ... here it is ... my first impression. I stand by it and by her. I am not by any means saying that these other experiences are untrue and/or not valid by any means. I am just speaking to my own personal experience. That's all I have to go on. PS - When I was waiting for her in the waiting area, another client was coming out and as she was leaving she turned around and said "I didn't give you a hug". I got the impression that this was going to be their last session b/c she then said to her "Thank you so much for everything". She left smiling, happy, and seemingly healed. So I guess I'm leaving two reviews ... mine and hers. read more

Can you give a zero? When we first went to Lynda- we liked her upfront no BS style. Now I will be reporting her to the board of psychology. She should not be practicing. She has run her course- her knowledge is out dated. She contradicts herself, she tells my daughter things I have told Lynda in confidence, she is unprofessional- berates me and my family, doesn't listen, doesn't ask questions, does all the talking-but provides no tools, tells you there's no hope...but can't remember from one week to the next what your issues are. Today I was called a "baby" and told me what was happening in my house, "would never happen in mine!" Very unprofessional. She also told me she would not be seeing my oldest daughter anymore because she missed an appt. AND DIDNT CALL TO APOLOGIZE! Who's the baby? Mind you, she missed my appt. And called my husband to tell HIM she wasn't going to make it. That is also a breach of confidentiality and a conflict of interest. By the way, I am proud of my daughter- it has taken a lot to get her to even consider family therapy . I'm sorry it ended this way. Back to the drawing board. Decide what is best for you. read more

Was trying to make appts for my daughter but she advice me to go elsewhere because I had cancel appointments. Probably not a great fit if not understanding as sometimes things come up that is not within my control and her tone was unpleasant. read more

Lynda green-alter should NOT be anyones therapist. She is a cold hearted. If you are down she will make you even more down. She is as cold as they come. After I had missed my second appt. She dropped me. Didnt ask me what was going on. Is everything ok. No the day that i called her cause i really needed to talk to her. She said no she couldnt talk to me. That she took me off her schedule. I told her that i was in the hospital with my best friend dying from cancer the day after she passed away. I ended up in the hospital with pneumonia. I really needed someone to talk to and she turned me down. I told her she is the reason why people kill themselves because when you really need someone. There not there for you. Shes only there cause your a paycheck. The whole time your sitting there shes looking at her watch. Not paying no attention. She should not be a therapist. I will see if i can screenshot the cold hearted text messages. read more

See all

DO NOT GO TO HER. I read the reviews and still decided to give her a chance and am sorry I did. The first appt. was spent reviewing my paperwork and briefly talking. The second appt. was a disaster. She kept receiving messages on her ipad and she was replying to them. It kept dinging and I kept thinking "is my time up?" She would then pick up her ipad and reply. The first time I kept talking and she didn't hear a word I said, the second and third time I stopped talking completely and after she was finished replying she looked up and said "what were you saying" I was in complete disbelief. She told me "sorry it was a patient". Ummm "I am a patient and I am paying you for your time right now!" Do not waste your time or money. I have filed a complaint with my insurance company so they take her off their referral list. No one should have to be taken by this woman. read more

I wish I read the reviews here before I decided to see this therapist. I wanted to walk out of her office the first couple of minutes but I thought I should give it a chance. First, she spent a good 15 minutes out of my 45 min session going through the 8 forms she required to be filled out. Then, she was condescending and just not nice at all. As soon as her timer went off, she did not even let me finish my sentence and told me we have to end the session. I was hoping to feel a little better when I decided to go to therapy but I was so disappointed. Lesson learned, I checked out reviews first before making my appointment with another therapist. read more

I would not recommend this woman. First, scheduling an initial consult with her is difficult. She does not answer her phone, you must always leave a message on her voicemail. It resulted in weeks of phone tag for me. On one voicemail she left me she stated that we had already met once. This was incorrect info, I had never met with her. This should have been my first sign not to go. I finally made an appt with her. We did not get started off on the right note, as we had forgotten our paper work at home that we had filled out and were supposed to bring with us. She said we would have to re-schedule and that she could not see us. We were obviously upset, so she offered to give us the forms and let us fill them out in her 'waiting area.' This cut our appt short by about 15 min. In the half hour we had with her, I felt we did not accomplish one thing. She had no 'structure' that she followed. She had a very interesting way of doing 'therapy.' She was hard to follow and was a very analytical thinker. I was confused during most of the appt and unsure of the direction she was going. She would twist things you were saying in different ways, almost like it was her way of trying to figure you out. It was baffling. She was not a warm, easy person to open up to. For us, insurance covers the $165/hour consult... luckily. I would not recommend her and will not be visiting her again. read more