Located in sunny California, Brisbane is a small city found in San Mateo County along the slopes of San Bruno Mountain. The town has a population of around 4,700 people and has a quiet, peaceful charm but is close enough to the San Francisco Airport and San Francisco Bay Are so one can easily access the big city and its amenities.

But life isn’t always sunshine and flowers and when a mental illness of some sort strikes, it can feel impossible to even get out of bed every morning, much less function productively. If you find yourself feeling out of sorts or dealing with a mental crisis it is imperative you seek help right away. A good start is to contact on the licensed therapists and counsellors in the Brisbane area and or speak to your doctor; they can connect you to the perfect person to help you.

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Tammy Foster

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health therapist serving in California as Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a wealth of knowledge both as a clinical therapist and also as a coach and counselor. In the beginning of my private practice venture, I have served as an addiction specialist, interventionist and counselor for about 6.5 years. At that time, I was also the administrator for an adolescent treatment center in Northern California. I bring to the table over 20 years of experience in assisting persons with a wide range of challenges including: depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, career related issues, relationship issues, parenting and marital problems. I have also helped many people going through adversities related to major transitions, adult life goals, social skills, grief and loss, substance abuse and sex addiction. I have a wealth of knowledge in codependency and attachment theory that have been reported as life challenge liberating for hundreds of people. My counseling style is warm and interactive. My approach combines a variety of theoretical approaches including, but not limited to: person-centered and strength-based approach, while integrating motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems and mindfulness based counseling. I believe that every step in this journey called life is important and that we are all here to help one another to experience more joy, peace and harmony. I know it is my calling and with great joy and deep gratitude, I dedicate my career to helping others create a happier and healthier version of self. I have helped hundreds of people walk through the tunnel of darkness. I am honored to support my clients in nurturing the light within self in order to reach inner freedom and harmony. Looking forward to walking through with you! With Light, Tammy Tammy Foster, LCSW

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Michele Lando

Offering therapy in CA
LGBTGriefSelf esteemCompassion fatigueADHD
13 years of experience

Hello. I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional therapeutic work experience. In my private practice in Northern California, I provide therapy and professional consultation. I am 2e (Twice Exceptional), Neurodivergent & LGBTQIA affirming. My training and specialization center on trauma-informed integrative therapy. Certification and training including mindful CBT, Brain-spotting & Trauma Informed Yoga Therapy, PSI Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Solution Focused Narrative therapy, & Motivational Interviewing. Additional areas of competency include working with Neurodivergent/Autistic/ADHD/2e (Twice Exceptional) clients. Interventions utilized include mindfulness, CBT/DBT/ACT, EFT attachment therapy, grief & loss, motivation, self esteem & confidence, & managing compassion fatigue. Relational, attachment & somatic therapies such as Brain-spotting help us to heal our nervous systems and grow resilience. Identifying strengths and navigating challenges together through narrative and family systems therapy builds skills to form more secure attachments and improve relationships. When we shift our focus toward resilience, we set ourselves up for growth.

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Matthew Heimark

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesGriefDepression
6 years of experience

Listening is an art and a science. I listen attentively without judgment and without jumping to conclusions. The therapeutic alliance between clinician and client is what makes this work so meaningful. The “talking cure” is transformational, often leading to a greater sense of personal choice and freedom. I’m a psychodynamically-trained psychotherapist who is a part of the LGBTQ+ community, and also practice mindfulness and meditation. I enjoy working with individuals and couples. Above all, I am a human that meets people where they are. I employ an evidence-based mindset and practical interventions to address a variety of concerns and ailments. My clinical orientation is eclectic; tailored to best meet you where you are now, addressing your needs whether relationship-specific, intimacy-related, career-focused, something more abstract or not yet determined. I generally employ a depth-oriented perspective, with the belief that your past affects your present. Examining this brings awareness to developed patterns that may not serve you well. While acknowledging depression, anxiety, trauma, and other life transitions and opting not to view them through a prescribed one-size-fits-all lens, we work together to remedy these areas that ail you. I believe that most theoretical orientations can provide benefit to client populations, whether psychoanalytically-informed, humanistic, relational, existential, or perhaps from a non-Western way of thinking. You are a unique individual. I am dedicated to you and your wellness - not a predetermined set of criteria or ideals from any specific school or way of practicing. I am warm, real, in-the-room, and always “with you” in session. When working with couples, I dedicated in helping you find better ways to communicate effectively with one another and repair intimacy within your relationship. Are you at a crossroads and considering reaching out? My goal is to empower you with the tools and insight necessary for you to experience a more fulfilling way of living and the opportunity for transformative change. I welcome you to take the first step and reach out to me to schedule a time for us to talk.

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Ellen Golding

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefEating disordersDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & eating disorders. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Seán Harrington

Offering therapy in CA
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Sheila Owens

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have been fortunate in being able to provide 30 additional years in the mental health field as a case manager/case coordinator. I am a community activist who aids in decreasing the sigma of mental health issues. I have an extensive background in helping clients with stress, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, motivation, and self-esteem, and confidence issues. I have experience working with an array of adult mental health diagnoses and treating individuals who are experiencing life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Cynthia Alcaraz

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, & career difficulties. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Desiree Alvarado

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of California and Texas. I have more than 10 years of combined professional experience working in child welfare and abuse, domestic violence, mental health court programs, substance use disorders and complex trauma. As well as working with law enforcement/first responders. *EMDR trained therapist *Certification in Domestic Violence Peer Counseling and Advocacy *Certification in Child forensic Interviewing *Currently working on a Drug and Alcohol Counselor Certification I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I work within a client centered focus forum and frequently utilize cognitive behavioral therapy. My focus is to help you unravel those thoughts/behaviors that create negative responses in your life and guide you through developing realistic tools that will yield a positive outcome, whatever that may look like to you. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I believe in establishing rapport and trust with my clients, so they are able to feel as open as needed to unpack things that hinder you from being your best self. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support and guide you through that process.

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Imelda Alvarez

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Shelly Boismenu

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

For over twenty years, I have provided women with the support and therapeutic guidance they need to change the parts of their lives that are no longer working or serving them. I specialize in relationship issues, self-confidence and self-worth struggles, divorce, narcissistic abuse and high conflict co-parenting and custody issues. Together, we will explore the themes and patterns that brought you to this point and work together to learn new ways to think, feel and respond, creating the life you want for yourself beyond this current moment. Do not wait to get support. Every day counts.

How to find counseling in Brisbane

Finding the best therapist close by in Brisbane can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Brisbane. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Brisbane, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Brisbane or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Brisbane area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Brisbane, elsewhere in San Mateo, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Brisbane area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Brisbane therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Brisbane due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Brisbane may not take health insurance, some in the state of California may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Brisbane, California working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Brisbane above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Brisbane helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Brisbane therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Brisbane therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Brisbane therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in CA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 94005 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Brisbane counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Brisbane licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Brisbane, California can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Brisbane has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Brisbane.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Brisbane:

94005

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