Our mission
Shanti Orange County strengthens the health and wellbeing of our community through safe and affirming mental health care, wellness, and social services.
About
Care rooted in community since 1987
We believe that a quality and productive life comes from overall health and well-being. Since 1987 Shanti Orange County has been the caring heart of our community, providing compassionate and personalized care.
What guides us
Our mission & vision.
Our vision
To create a world that celebrates diversity and empowers every individual to embrace their authentic self.
Our story
The evolution of a caring heart
For decades, Shanti OC has walked alongside neighbors navigating mental health challenges, HIV care, and the need for education and connection. Our approach is personal: listen first, then help remove barriers to wellness.
“Shanti” is Sanskrit for “inner peace.” Charles Garfield founded the original Shanti model in San Francisco in 1974, a volunteer approach to providing emotional support for people living with life-threatening illness. Our founders patterned this agency after that model, the first of its kind.
“Listen first, then help remove barriers to wellness.”
By the numbers
Nearly 40 years of care.
38+
years of care
4
active programs
4
languages
2
support groups
The journey
Milestones along the way.
1987
Founded in Orange County
1993
HIV crisis response
2010
Mental health expansion
Today
4 programs, 2 support groups
What we do
Programs & support groups
Four programs and two free, recurring support groups. Every one starts with a single intake call. We listen, then match you to the right support.
Mental health & wellness
Our psychologists provide individual counseling for mental health needs including depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and much more.
Learn more→
Psychological testing & evaluation
Licensed psychologists provide assessments for ages 6+: learning, ADHD, mood, trauma, and more. Many insurance plans accepted; multi-session process with written report.
Learn more→
Community education
Free, AB-329-aligned sexual-health and prevention education for Orange County high schools and colleges, paired with a Shanti Ambassador who puts a human face on HIV/AIDS and helps break down stigma.
Learn more→
HIV care
Our case managers assist individuals living with HIV/AIDS in removing barriers to healthcare, and connecting to a variety of community resources.
Learn more→
Where your gift goes
89%
of Shanti Orange County's annual budget goes directly toward running our programs: counseling, case management, education, and support groups.
The people behind it
A team that listens first.
Doctoral- and Masters-level therapists, case managers, educators, and an intake team who answer the phone in person. Counseling is available in English, Spanish, Farsi, and Hindi.
Ready to start
Tell us a bit about you and we'll reach out within 24 hours.
Send a short inquiry and our intake team will email Simple Practice paperwork. No commitment.