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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Dr. Arlene Unger

Offering therapy in CA
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
30 years of experience

No one really gets through life's ups and downs unscathed. Change has a way of bringing out the best and worst in all of us. I serve folks from all walks of life, and both young and old. You might be seeking coping tools for an immediate life challenge, chronic stress, early trauma, or loss. Drawing from my background in Cognitive Behavioral, Emotional Brain Training and Acceptance Commitment Therapies, I'm here to help you find hope and relief in daily living. With a PhD in Clinical Psychology and certification in nutrition, wellness, mindfulness, life coaching and substance abuse, I'm better able to understand and assist you in finding balance, identifying as well as supporting their need for change and working collaboratively with you through the healing process. Please check out my 7 mindfulness visualization exercise books and numerous articles at http://drarleneunger@com. I'm ready to empower you. The first step takes courage but knowing I'm only a text, phone call or video session away makes reaching out for help much easier. I’m here for you right now!

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Ruth Burgher-Gibore

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am a qualified, California and Florida State Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 23 years experience in providing effective mental health services to diverse populations of individuals, couples, and families. My services have included therapy and counseling, case management, career counseling, crisis intervention, grief and loss counseling, and successful management of large community based mental health programs and clinics. Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy related approaches, I am able to provide effective intervention for all types of presenting problems from individual issues, like management of depression and anxiety to relational issues such as concerns with communication between partners or family members. I enjoy working with diverse groups and have counseled every one from young babies with their parents to children, adolescents, adults, seniors, disabled individuals, members of the LGTBQ community, other professionals, and veterans. I have also worked extensively with individuals coping with trauma; trained in TF-CBT and other models of trauma informed care. I enjoy helping others and my solution focused approach yields results.

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Rhonda Robertson

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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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Jamie Pereira

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefBipolar disorderDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience in the mental health field, medical field and 5 years as a Clinical social worker. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, mood disorders, trauma, & PTSD. I also specialize in post partum depression, coping and adapting to complex medical diagnosis and co-occurring disorders. 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. 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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Marion Robinson

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesParenting issues
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & intimacy related issues. 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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Claire Lerma

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemADHD
5 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, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. 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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Deonae Shackelford

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Anisett Jacques-Willis

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Lela Lemell

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

As a licensed California therapist, I bring over a decade of experience to my practice, specializing in individual and couples’ therapy. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and a deep commitment to helping clients navigate life’s challenges and enhance their relationships. Whether working with individuals facing personal struggles or couples seeking to strengthen their bond, I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space for exploration and growth. With a blend of evidence-based techniques and a focus on relational dynamics, I empower my clients to cultivate self-awareness, communication skills, and resilience. Through collaborative dialogue and personalized interventions, I guide individuals and couples towards greater insight, connection, and fulfillment in their lives and relationships. As an individual or a couple seeking therapy, know that this is the first step of finding the right therapist to be able to connect with. Give me a call so we can discuss your needs as I am here to support and empower you and your relationships.

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Sara Irwin

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMHP,LADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years of experience

"There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn't" Hello! I am glad you are here and I look forward to working with you. I am a licensed mental health and addiction therapist in with over 10 years of experience in the field. I graduated from Creighton University in 2008 with a Master's degree in Community Counseling. I have worked with all ages in clinic setting and private practice on various issues including substance abuse, anxiety, trauma, depression, relationship issues, grief, parenting struggles, stress management, and poor impulse control. In addition, I am also trained as a certified Clinical Trauma Professional. My therapeutic style is based on being genuine and understanding with clients. I believe it is essential to actively listen and effectively problem solve with my clients. My therapeutic foundation is a mix of cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and rational-emotive theories. There are so many benefits from seeking out therapy. It can be the beginning of a powerful change for a person's life. I enjoy helping people reach their goals or resolve what is bothering them. I encourage you to start today to change your life for the better by allowing me to help your through your journey. When I am not working, I stay busy with my family. I have two little guys, so I am always on the go with these two. I also love running, traveling, reading, learning new things, and being outdoors. I am here to help you get unstuck and live your best life!

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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