Therapy built on trust, authenticity, and meaningful change
Choosing a therapist is a personal decision.
Beyond credentials, specialties, and treatment approaches, one of the most important questions is whether you feel comfortable with the person sitting across from you. The therapeutic relationship plays a significant role in the success of therapy, and finding the right fit matters.
My goal is not to be the right therapist for everyone. Instead, I strive to provide enough information about who I am, how I work, and what therapy with me feels like so that you can make an informed decision about whether we're a good fit.
About Stephen Rought
Therapy built on trust, authenticity, and meaningful change
Choosing a therapist is a personal decision.
Beyond credentials, specialties, and treatment approaches, one of the most important questions is whether you feel comfortable with the person sitting across from you. The therapeutic relationship plays a significant role in the success of therapy, and finding the right fit matters.
My goal is not to be the right therapist for everyone. Instead, I strive to provide enough information about who I am, how I work, and what therapy with me feels like so that you can make an informed decision about whether we're a good fit.
Why I Became a Therapist
I became a therapist because I feel called to create an environment where healing, growth, and self-discovery can occur.
Supporting people through life's challenges and transitions is deeply meaningful to me. Being present with others comes naturally, and I believe that meaningful change often begins when people have a space where they feel heard, understood, and accepted without judgment.
Many people spend years carrying stress, self-doubt, anxiety, relationship challenges, or emotional burdens on their own. Therapy provides an opportunity to slow down, gain perspective, and begin moving toward the life you want to create.
Helping people through that process is work I genuinely value.
Working With Pilots and High-Responsibility Professionals
Over time, I have developed a particular passion for working with pilots and other high-responsibility professionals.
Pilots are human beings first. They experience the same challenges, stressors, relationships, life transitions, and emotional struggles that affect everyone else. At the same time, they work within a profession that demands extraordinary levels of responsibility, performance, and accountability.
Many pilots hesitate to seek support because they worry about how therapy may affect their careers or because they feel pressure to always appear capable and in control.
I understand those concerns.
My goal is to provide a confidential, supportive environment where pilots and other professionals can step away from those expectations, be fully human, and receive the support they deserve.
I also believe that many of the qualities that make professionals successful can contribute to burnout when left unchecked. Traits like discipline, attention to detail, perseverance, high standards, and a strong sense of responsibility often help people excel professionally. However, when these strengths are overused or applied without balance, they can lead to chronic stress, emotional exhaustion, strained relationships, and reduced overall well-being.
Rather than helping clients eliminate these strengths, I focus on helping them develop a healthier relationship with them so they can continue to thrive professionally while maintaining a fulfilling personal life.
What Therapy With Me Is Like
My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and practical.
I strive to create an environment where clients feel comfortable being themselves and discussing things they may not feel able to share elsewhere. I place a strong emphasis on active listening, trust, and building a genuine therapeutic relationship.
At the same time, therapy is not simply about talking through problems.
I work alongside my clients by offering practical tools, guidance, resources, and strategies that support meaningful change both inside and outside of sessions. Together, we explore underlying patterns, increase self-awareness, and identify solutions that align with your goals and values.
Clients often describe me as approachable, caring, thoughtful, and easy to talk to. My goal is to create a balance between compassion and practical support so that you feel both understood and empowered throughout the therapeutic process.
A Safe and Confidential Space
Feeling safe enough to be honest is one of the most important parts of therapy.
Even the most effective therapeutic techniques have limited value if a client does not feel comfortable sharing what is really happening in their life.
Because of this, I place a strong emphasis on creating a nonjudgmental environment where clients can openly discuss their thoughts, feelings, experiences, and challenges. My goal is for every client to feel welcomed, respected, understood, and supported.
Confidentiality is a foundational part of my work. In addition to adhering to all legal and ethical standards regarding client privacy, I take thoughtful steps to minimize unnecessary exposure of sensitive information whenever possible. Protecting client confidentiality is a responsibility I take seriously.
What Makes My Approach Different
Many people come to therapy after feeling that previous experiences were too general or not sufficiently tailored to their specific needs.
I believe therapy works best when it is personalized.
Rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach, I work collaboratively with each client to understand their circumstances, goals, strengths, and challenges. Together, we develop a plan that feels relevant, practical, and connected to the life they want to create.
Insight is important, but meaningful change happens when insight is translated into action.
My focus is helping clients not only understand themselves more deeply but also develop practical ways to move forward.
Let's Talk
Whether you're navigating stress, burnout, anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, or simply looking for greater clarity and balance, therapy can provide a space to explore what matters most.
I offer in-person therapy in Chino Hills, California, as well as telehealth counseling for clients throughout California and Florida.
If my approach resonates with you, I invite you to reach out and schedule a consultation.
Confidential Consultation
Begin with a private conversation and see whether this feels like the right fit.
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Education and Experience
Stephen is a dedicated and licensed therapist committed to providing compassionate and effective care. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of La Verne in La Verne, CA, Stephen combines his educational background with years of professional experience to guide individuals and families through life’s challenges. He is fully licensed to practice therapy in California, with License #LCSW118018, ensuring the highest standards of professionalism and expertise in every session.
The University of La Verne, La Verne, CA
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Loma Linda University, School of Behavioral Health, Loma Linda, CA
Masters of Social Work
Loma Linda University, School of Behavioral Health, Loma Linda, CA
Masters of Science in Criminal Justice
Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center
Social Work Field Placement
Metropolitan State Hospital
Social Work Field Placement
Kaiser Permanente Department of Psychiatry
Addiction Medicine and Recovery Services Department Fellow
Kaiser Permanente Department of Psychiatry
Addiction Medicine and Recovery Services Department Masters level Clinician
Conditional Release Program (CONREP)
Forensic Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Financial Therapy Association
Certified Financial Therapist - I™ (In Progress)
Services
We Offer
Individual Therapy
Stephen Rought’s individual therapy sessions focus on helping you navigate personal challenges, develop coping skills, and achieve emotional balance. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or life transitions, we provide a safe, supportive environment for self-exploration and personal growth.
Therapy for Pilots
Confidential, professional therapy tailored to the unique demands of aviation careers. Designed to support pilots managing stress, anxiety, burnout, and the pressures that come with flying. Services are provided with discretion and an understanding of aviation responsibilities, and are available to pilots based in California and Florida.
Why Choose Stephen Rought?
Offering In-Person and Online Therapy Services in Chino Hills
Stephen specializes in online and in-person therapy services, providing flexible options to address mental health needs throughout California. Experience professional care tailored to your unique challenges in a setting that suits you.
Patients seeking grief counseling, recovering from the pain and trauma of violence or domestic violence, marriage counseling, and any other challenges can be addressed from the comfort of our Chino Hills office, or your own home.
Compassionate Support
Stephen provides compassionate and tailored support to help you navigate life's challenges. Through personalized sessions, he helps you build understanding, develop practical strategies, and foster lasting positive change.
Personalized Individual Therapy
Our individual therapy sessions are designed to help you overcome personal struggles and achieve emotional growth. Stephen’s tailored approach ensures you receive compassionate, goal-oriented support to build resilience and navigate life’s complexities effectively. Whether you just need help developing better social skills or are battling more serious issues like substance abuse, anger management, or recovering from childhood trauma our program can help
What Our Clients Are Saying
Discover how I helped individuals and families navigate life's challenges with compassionate and personalized care. Here's what our clients have to share about their experiences.
Our Process
Initial Consultation
We begin with a comprehensive consultation to understand your unique challenges. Stephen tailors online therapy services to address individual needs, providing a supportive and personalized plan for your journey to better mental health.
Customized Treatment Plans
Stephen develops tailored strategies for individual therapy, parent coaching, financial therapy, and couples counseling. Each plan is uniquely designed to meet your specific goals, ensuring progress and long-term growth.
In Person and
Online Therapy Services
Stephen specializes in online and in-person therapy services, providing flexible options to address mental health needs throughout Southern California. Experience professional care tailored to your unique challenges in a setting that suits you.
Empathetic Counseling Approach
Stephen fosters a compassionate and judgment-free environment. Whether through couples counseling or parent coaching, we focus on understanding your struggles while empowering you with effective tools to overcome them.
Progress Monitoring
Regular progress reviews ensure your therapy aligns with your evolving needs. Stephen adapts your plan as necessary, keeping your goals at the forefront and ensuring steady growth through every stage of counseling.
Lasting Change
Stephen equips clients with practical skills to create lasting change. From improved communication in couples counseling to healthier habits in financial therapy, we help you build a foundation for sustainable emotional and personal growth.
Get in Touch with Us!
At Stephen Rought Counseling, we are committed to helping you achieve emotional well-being through personalized therapy services. Whether you're seeking individual therapy, parent coaching, financial therapy, or couples therapy, we offer tailored support designed around your unique needs. Our online therapy services provide convenience and accessibility, allowing you to receive care from anywhere in Southern California and beyond.
All services are provided by Stephen Rought, LCSW #118018.
Have questions about insurance? We’re happy to answer any questions regarding what treatment options may be covered by your health insurance or other insurance plans.
Contact us today to begin your journey toward healing and growth. Let Stephen guide you through life’s challenges and help you build a healthier, more fulfilling future. We’re here to help.
We accept Aetna!
Contact us to discuss your health insurance coverage options.
Stephen Rought, LCSW
Proudly Accepting
Aetna Insurance
Disclaimer
Stephen Rought, LCSW does not guarantee any specific outcome. All content provided on the Stephen Rought, LCSW website is provided for educational or informational purposes only. Consult medical professionals you are working with about whether any opinions or recommendations provided through this website apply to you and your unique circumstances
Currently, all online therapy sessions are conducted using the HIPPA compliant Telehealth service doxy.me
SErvices
Individual Therapy
Parent Coaching
Financial Therapy
Couples Counseling
Family Therapy