Dr. Barek Sharif, PsyD, Mission Viejo, CA

About Dr. Barek Sharif

Focus areas

Burnout

Couples Therapy

Clientele seen

Young adults (18-24)

Individuals

Adults (25-64)

Couples

Seniors (65+)

Treatment approaches

Attachment-based

Emotionally Focused

Clinical Supervision and Licensed Supervisors

Narrative

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Psychodynamic

Identity

Gender

Male

Languages spoken

English

Getting to know Dr. Barek Sharif

It is a common paradox: the more successful we become, the heavier that success can feel. As a Mission Viejo-based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in helping high-achievers manage the "emotional mechanics" of a thriving life. Holding both a Master of Science and a Doctor of Psychology, I bridge the gap between rigorous clinical training and the practical realities of a high-performance lifestyle. Whether you are navigating occupational burnout or a deep relationship disconnect, my goal is to ensure your personal life is as robust as your professional one. I don't just "fix what is broken"—I help you optimize your emotional intelligence to match your professional drive.

What should a new client know about working with you?

You’re used to being the person with all the answers, but even high achievers hit a ceiling where 'working harder' no longer works. I specialize in helping driven professionals and power couples navigate the unique pressures of high-stakes careers—from burnout and perfectionism to the 'roommate syndrome' that can happen when two busy lives collide. Our sessions are active and conversational. I don’t just nod and listen; I provide direct feedback and strategic tools to help you recalibrate. We will work to ensure your professional success doesn't come at the cost of your mental health or your most important relationships.

What is your typical process for working with clients?

Our work follows a structured, three-phase approach designed to respect your time and produce measurable results: The Discovery Phase (Sessions 1–3): We conduct a deep dive into your 'operational' history - identifying the patterns, stressors, and communication breakdowns currently stalling your progress. For couples, this includes an assessment of your relationship’s unique 'culture.' The Implementation Phase: We move into active work. I provide direct feedback and evidence-based tools (like CBT, EFT, and Collaborative Therapy techniques) to help you navigate high-pressure environments and complex relationship dynamics in real-time. The Optimization Phase: Once we’ve stabilized the immediate issues, we shift toward sustainability. We ensure you have the internal 'systems' in place to maintain your growth long after our sessions end.

In-network insurances

Popular visit reasons

New Patient Visit

Pain Management Consultation

Pre-Move In Couples Counseling

Psychosexual Evaluation

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit

Therapy

Young Adult Issues

New Patient Visit

Pain Management Consultation

Pre-Move In Couples Counseling

Psychosexual Evaluation

Office location

Thrival Therapy

26010 Acero, Mission Viejo, CA 92691

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Education and background

Practice names

Thrival Therapy

Education and training

Alliant International University (PsyD)
Vanguard University, Master's in Clinical Psychology

Professional memberships

American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy
California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists

NPI number

1912484742

Patient reviews

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Frequently asked questions

How soon can I make an appointment with Dr. Barek Sharif?

Generally, Dr. Barek Sharif has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Dr. Sharif's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.

Is Dr. Barek Sharif accepting new patients?

Dr. Barek Sharif generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Dr. Sharif's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.

Does Dr. Barek Sharif accept my insurance?

Choose your insurance plan to verify if Dr. Sharif is in-network.

Can I make an appointment with Dr. Barek Sharif online?

Yes, you can make an appointment online with Dr. Sharif using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.

What practice does Dr. Barek Sharif work with?

Dr. Barek Sharif works with Thrival Therapy.

Where is Dr. Barek Sharif's office located?

Dr. Barek Sharif's office is located at 26010 Acero, Mission Viejo, CA 92691.

What are common reasons for patients to see Dr. Barek Sharif?

Dr. Barek Sharif frequently sees patients for New Patient Visit, Pain Management Consultation, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Dr. Barek Sharif on their profile.