If you’re looking for a therapist in San Diego, CA, BetterHelp can help you find a licensed, vetted professional with experience in behavioral medicine or psychotherapy. Regardless of the reason you are seeking the support of a therapist, there is a vast community of qualified professionals in San Diego County. 

When you sign up for BetterHelp, you can be matched with a therapist from a diverse group of mental health professionals experienced in various approaches, including dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or interpersonal therapy. Whether you need help navigating trauma, coping with an underlying mental health condition, or focusing on your own well being and self care, talk to a San Diego-based therapist to see how they can help you.

This is Emily Schwimmer's avatar and link to their profile

Emily Schwimmer

Offering therapy in CA
License: M.A., LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

Hello! Good for you reaching out for support today. You are taking a big, worthwhile step! I've been practicing for over 23 years in Sunny Southern California working with adult individuals and couples. My experience is working with mild issues and symptoms around stress, anxiety and feelings of sadness, life transitions and career issues, grief and relationship issues, focusing more on the present and moving forward. I provide a safe space to explore and process the feelings and issues you are experiencing. It's not about getting rid of your feelings but rather learning how to manage them in a more healthy way; learning how to have your thoughts and feelings work together rather than against each other! It's usually best to work through your issues rather than ignoring them or trying to push them aside. I want to help up you live a more joyful life and experience fulfilling relationships. My style would be best described as eclectic. It's based loosely on the foundation of cognitive-behavioral theories and then adapts to each person's unique needs utilizing my experience, empathy and compassion to help you move forward in life. I find that weekly phone calls are the most beneficial with the option of brief messaging in-between appointments if you like. Please do not make any appointments on the platform's calendar before we discuss it. Please note I don't work with EAP subscribers or those submitting bills to an insurance company For those subscribers that are interested, I also focus on the mind-body connection, which includes learning how to live more in the moment. Living more in the moment, rather than being stuck in the past or worried about the future, makes life all the more peaceful and joyful. Mind/body connection exercises for example, include deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation (tensing and releasing different muscle groups), guided imagery and mindful walking ( a more active form of meditation). All these exercises can help achieve the body's Relaxation Response - physically relaxed and mentally alert. It's what I like to call, "Calm Energy." Research has shown that the Relaxation Response helps in the Reduction of pain, stress, anxiety, fatigue, irritability as well as reducing blood pressure and the stress hormone levels in our bodies. It's been shown to help Increase energy, motivation, productivity and improve decision-making abilities. Although we won't be working face-to-face, you can still learn and benefit from these exercises through instructive emails and/or telephone sessions.

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Tina Phillips

Offering therapy in CA
License: BA, MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
31 years of experience

Welcome to learning a little bit more about me. I attended undergraduate school at UCLA in Communication Studies and graduate school at Pepperdine University in Malibu California. I have been licensed for over 30 years and love helping people through life's challenges. I know how difficult it can be and you give your self a gift to reach out and seek help. I have worked with many different problems including self esteem issues, anxiety, depression and loneliness. I have helped people through divorce and child custody issues. I have 10 years of expertise working with seniors, 10 years of expertise working with children and families and 10 years of expertise working with young adults with Autism. I have worked in a Psychiatric facility and worked with dual diagnosis clients. I have a lot of experience with addiction. I believe we can find solutions. Thank you for taking time to take care of yourself, it's important.

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Dr. Saundra Taulbee

Offering therapy in CA
License: D.M.H., LMFT
AddictionsRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesBipolar disorderDepression
30 years of experience

I hear the heartbeat of your spoken and unspoken struggles, as well as your dreams yet to be realized. Together we work to uncover the root cause and triggers that prevent you from being at peace with yourself and others, whether it involves issues of : • addiction, depression - Bi-polar or other mood disorders, ADD • codependency, low self-esteem, • PTSD, problems with anger management or conflict avoidance • problems with emotional and sexual intimacy in marriage. And, then, together we move on to resolve issues you bring so that you can learn to have satisfaction and transformation in your life. My experience spans 25 plus years of working with a wide range of people in private practice and in the mental health system. Not only that, but, my training was as a Doctor of Mental Health in Psychiatry at UCSF Medical Centre, San Francisco, with a 3- year residence, rotating in the crisis clinic, in-patient and out-patient psych units in Mount Zion Hospital, and Langley Porter Hospital, San Francisco, CA. Through this magnificent training I learned to grasp the delicate balance between the mind-body duo, and, subsequently I became adept at diagnosis and treatment, including ascertaining one's need for medication as an adjunct to the talk therapy. I am also trained in theology, having earned an M.Div. degree from Fuller Theological Seminary. Above all, if you choose to work with me - you will gain an ally in your recovery - who is authentic, transparent, and, who will walk with you to the culmination of your treatment. My treatment approach is psychoanalytic. And, thus, I believe we all suffer hurts, habits and hang-ups from the past, which are at the root of our struggles that go back to unfinished business with family of origin. However, I also integrate facets of cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy, as the need presents. Furthermore, I am a Christian with a worldview that is biblically based. And, so, I hear the “God void” that lies within the heart of all humankind which we seek to fill with other things. This means that while my counsel will never conflict with the authority of Scripture, I will not proselytize. With that said, I have and will continue to see anyone who chooses to work with me as their therapist, regardless of whether you have a religious affiliation or none. Last, I am also an author who wrote a book based on case histories of nine patients who gave me permission to tell their stories, interspersed with vignettes from my own life - about how to overcome the struggles with which we all suffer. My nascent book, entitled, "You Can't Heal A Wound By Saying It's Not There", 2nd edition, is an overview of how what I have described above helps people heal and move on with their lives, so that they can help someone else be better - one person at a time. Are you willing to begin a journey with me of overcoming the past and embracing your God-given future?

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Robin Austin

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
3 years of experience

As your therapist, my goal – and my passion – is understanding what is most important to you, and what you need to be your best and happiest self. My approach involves building on your strengths as an individual, and using your personal values as a guide to create a fulfilling and authentic life. I specialize in working with issues related to trauma, depression, and anxiety, including suicidal ideation, self-harm, and substance use or abuse. My focus is on identifying how problematic coping patterns have both harmed and benefited you, in order to find and build more healthy and fulfilling ways to recover and meet your needs. I am experienced in working with teens, parents, and families - including those that are going through transitions such as divorce or becoming step-families/blended families. My work can be with individual teens, parents, or the whole family together. I have a flexible and creative approach that can accommodate any goal and level of motivation for change.

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This is Dr. Alexa Wasserman's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Alexa Wasserman

Offering therapy in CA
License: PsyD,MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

Welcome to your journey toward healing and wholeness. ✨ Whether you feel completely overwhelmed by life or are just looking for some support, I hope you recognize that by reaching out you have already overcome one of the most difficult parts of the journey. What gives me the authority to make such a claim? I stand by this belief as a product of my 20 years of clinical experience practicing as a psychologist but more profoundly based on my own personal journey toward healing and wholeness. It is my goal to ensure a positive, trusting therapeutic relationship so that we can create a safe place to work through whatever difficulties you may be facing. I believe in setting collaborative goals with my clients to help them with their areas of need, while also empowering them to use their strengths to overcome difficulties. To reach this end, I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches that incorporate cognitive-behavioral, client-centered and solution focused techniques. I also value the use of mindfulness techniques when my clients feel comfortable doing so. It would be an honor and pleasure to accompany you on your personal journey! ✨

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Christina Corzine

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 10 years of professional work experience helping children, adults, and families of various backgrounds and ages. I have experience in trauma informed care and working with clients dealing with abuse, family and parenting issues, life stressors, anxiety, and depression. I am also passionate about working with clients dealing with the impact of fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting on mental health. My goal is to assist you in navigating some of the more challenging parts of life and help you to develop positive change.

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Larry Newson

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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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Roser Camats Falip

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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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Felicia Hermle

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

With over 10 years of experience, I offer a safe space for stressed-out high achievers seeking sobriety and mental balance. I specialize in anxiety, addiction, and working with people who are in 12 step recovery. Through integrative therapy, including faith-based counseling, I tailor sessions to your needs, drawing from approaches like IFS-Informed therapy and attachment-based techniques. Together, we'll reduce stress, gain insight, and navigate life's challenges. Let's start your journey towards holistic wellness today.

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This is Christina Handal's avatar and link to their profile

Christina Handal

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

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I am excited about the opportunity to continue my work with individuals, couples, families and children. I approach my work with respect, cultural awareness and a strong belief in self-empowerment. Our time together will be supportive, collaborative, focused and goal driven. Although I am continually learning and searching for what works, Reality Therapy/Choice Theory is my primary theoretical approach. I believe my purpose is to help clients discover, clarify and maximize their potential for healing/growth. I am a strong believer in the healing power of good relationships, so my work is framed by the intent to help folks get along better with the important people in their lives.

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How to find counseling in San Diego

Finding the best therapist close by in San Diego 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 San Diego. 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 San Diego, 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 San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego, elsewhere in San Diego, 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 San Diego area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego, 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 San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego 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 92198 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 San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego, 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.

San Diego 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 San Diego.

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

92014, 92025, 92027, 92037, 92038, 92039, 92071, 92072, 92092, 92093, 92101, 92102, 92103, 92104, 92105, 92106, 92107, 92108, 92109, 92110, 92111, 92112, 92113, 92114, 92115, 92116, 92117, 92119, 92120, 92121, 92122, 92123, 92124, 92126, 92127, 92128, 92129, 92130, 92131, 92132, 92134, 92137, 92138, 92139, 92140, 92142, 92143, 92145, 92147, 92149, 92150, 92152, 92153, 92154, 92158, 92159, 92160, 92161, 92163, 92165, 92166, 92167, 92168, 92169, 92170, 92171, 92172, 92173, 92174, 92175, 92176, 92177, 92179, 92182, 92186, 92187, 92190, 92191, 92192, 92193, 92195, 92196, 92197, 92198, 92199

Popular cities near San Diego, CA

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