Life can feel like a dance. When you're mentally prepared, you can dance across anything life throws at you, and end things off with grace. However, when you're mentally unwell, you may stumble, fall, and feel like everyone is throwing tomatoes at you. A counselor based in Encinitas can be the dance instructor you need. 

Encinitas is known for many things, including its ballet. Ballet dancing requires much training and precision, but it can be rewarding. This applies to life as well. If you need someone to help train you, a counselor can help you do just that. Speak to one today and see what you can do. 

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Alyssa Vida

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, ,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
7 years of experience

My name is Alyssa Vida and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT#96704). I’m so glad you’ve made the decision to start personal therapy through BetterHelp. Not only is therapy a wonderful opportunity for problem solving, but it can also serve as a catalyst for personal growth and improved quality of life. I strongly believe most problems have solutions and sometimes all it takes is a fresh perspective. I also believe that you are the “expert of you,” meaning you know yourself best. My approach is collaborative, so I will let you set the agenda for each session. As we work together we will discuss your current challenges as well as barriers to your goals, and we will use this increased insight to develop attainable solutions that work for you. I most often utilize a "client-centered approach" but draw heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused, and Family Systems frameworks. My ultimate goal will be for you to leave each session feeling more capable, confident, and empowered to make changes. My main job will be to assist you with setting goals for yourself and identifying any unhelpful thoughts/ patterns of behavior which are getting in the way of you leading the life you’d like to lead. I will also help you to identify more personal strengths and teach you coping skills for stressors as they arise. As a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist, I'm trained to work with individuals, couples, family units, and children. I have vast experience in the field of counseling and have been fortunate to work in a variety of settings ranging from community mental health, to private practice, to school-based, and most recently, for the military. I hold a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and a special certification in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). I'm passionate about empowering individuals with tools for self advocacy, problem solving, increased self awareness, and resiliency, and look forward to working with you! Specialties: Anger Management Anxiety, Stress, and Depression Autism Spectrum Disorders Crisis Intervention Domestic Violence Family Systems Special Needs/ Social Skills Trauma Treatment Approach/ Orientation: Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) Strength Based

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Jesse Marez

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
26 years of experience

Hello and welcome to BetterHelp! My name is Jesse Marez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the State of California since 2003. I received my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the University of California, Davis, in 1995. I earned my Master's in Social Welfare degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in 1997 and have worked primarily in clinical settings as a social worker, therapist and a clinical supervisor. Over the years of my practice, I have cultivated an ability to respond to my clients personally and individually while establishing therapeutic rapport by using motivational interviewing, client-centered therapy and Jungian and existential psychology. I draw upon my training and experience to ensure a safe and secure therapeutic space with room for creativity. For example, I like to pull in my knowledge of and passion for Jungian archetypes from Star Wars, Marvel, DC, anime and mythology. However, client-centered means we start with YOU and we begin with where you are and what you need and are asking for. I have worked with children, adolescents, families, and adults facing a variety of behavioral and psychological challenges and issues. Because I have worked in a number of different settings such as a child therapy clinic, an adoptions agency, a psychiatric hospital and a prison, I have experience working across age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion and socioeconomic background. This provides me with the clinical and humanitarian touchstone for my practice. My clinical orientation is cognitive behavioral (CBT) and client-centered therapy with a specialty in Trauma Focused CBT. Having over 8 years of clinical supervisory experience, I am also well-versed in psychodynamic and humanistic psychology. I feel the strongest part of my therapy is something my supervisor told me during my licensure supervision. He said, “Jesse, before your clients care what you have to say, they have to know that you care.” He went on to say that he believed that I have a unique ability to let my clients know I care. As you are looking for the right fit for your needs, I want you to know that I take that advice to heart and use it in every encounter with my clients. SPECIALTIES • Trauma • Mood Disorders • Anxiety and Stress • Family Dynamics and Relationships Years of experience: 25

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Julie Wilson

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
9 years of experience

I am warm, down-to-earth, intuitive, and often humorous in my approach. My work is highly relational, and is informed by the use of mindfulness, attachment theory, parts work, as well Depth Psychology. I focus not only on the obvious symptoms, but also existential issues and the unconscious. Taking each client’s unique experiences and needs into account, I tailor my approach to meet you where you are, providing a deeply non-judgmental, spacious, yet practical therapeutic container. I have two MA degrees: one in East-West Psych and one in Counseling Psych.

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Holly Henderson

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMHC
LGBTFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
19 years of experience

Welcome! It's a big step to seek out counseling, and I want to share about my experience so you can decide whether I might be a good match for your counseling needs. I am available for counseling by text, chat, video, and phone. At this time I am offering live sessions on weekend mornings (until 12pm Eastern time) and messaging at anytime. I have a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Seattle, following a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Florida, with a minor in Women's Studies and Gender Issues. I have been working in the field since 2003 in a variety of settings -- ranging from inpatient, mobile crisis, and triage to community-based counseling, home-based counseling, residential, and telehealth; with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My passion lies in working with clients to uncover their true identity -- who they really are and who they can become once the severity of depression, anxiety, and trauma have been processed and alleviated. I approach therapy from a strengths-based, client-centered perspective, offering every client unconditional positive regard, respect, encouragement, and hope. Some of the tools I use include CBT, Trauma-Focused CBT, knowledge of family systems and intergenerational trauma, communication skills, and mindfulness. Also, I believe that humor in therapy is seriously underrated... We are a team, and my goal is to help you achieve your goals. My hope is for you to bring your whole self to therapy so that we can work together to help you be as whole as you can be. Let's do this.

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Michelle Frizzelle

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I'm easy going and find that building a relationship takes time and communication. I have a lot of life experience to bring to the table as well as empathy for listening and being present. 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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Candace Delis

Offering therapy in CA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsBipolar disorderDepression
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts in Community Counseling from Lakeland University and a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. I work to create a safe, comfortable and accepting environment for my clients. I have previously worked in crisis intervention as well as group therapy settings and like to focus on providing positive support for my clients. I've been told I'm not the "typical" therapist type - I have tattoos and a pretty progressive viewpoint, and I also work really hard to be relatable to my clients. I'm married and have an 18 year old stepson. The rest of my family is made up of 3 rescue dogs, 3 adopted cats, and we recently reached what I call the "livestock level" of quarantine and got chickens and goats. It's a pretty full house. I have worked with adolescents, adults, and couples. I have worked with a wide range of issues, but some of my areas of specialization include: emotional regulation (anger, anxiety), depression, self-esteem building, bipolar disorder, PTSD, grief and loss, assertiveness building, marital issues and relationship building skills. I also have experience with end of life care. My counseling style is interactive, and I believe in treating people as individuals and not labeling them with their mental health issues. You are not your illness, it is only a small part of who you are. I believe in treating people with the same respect, sensitivity, and compassion as I would like to be treated. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, and solution focused counseling. I will do my best to tailor our conversations and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek support and take steps towards making a change. Life can throw us curveballs and unexpected circumstances can arise with even the best of planning. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support you and help you find the tools that will help you succeed. I look forward to working with you! My current hours are (all are CST): Mondays 9am-8pm Tuesdays 8am-8pm Wednesdays 8am-8pm Thursdays 8am-8pm Fridays 8am-8pm Saturdays 8am-5pm (These are my Winter hours and will change at the end of May)

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Alexcis Grushinski

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW,M. Ed
Self esteemCareer difficultiesBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Hi, I'm Alexcis! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker but you might also call me a mindful, coping skills, mood disturbance, values-oriented, polyamorous counselor. I help people who long to feel stable, secure, physically, and emotionally healthy but hold themselves back due to past and present difficulties. These barriers, keep them from moving forward and accomplishing their goals. Living a life of values does not guarantee a stress-free easy life. It can however help get through the tough times by keeping us on track to accomplish our goals. Life is hard and full of stress. I believe that through self-compassion, values, mindfulness, and a desire for something better will lead to a meaningful life. Call or send an email to start on your new path.

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Jennifer Rodriguez Morrow

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Aroosha Sanchez

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementADHD
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parent-child bonding & 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. 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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Stacey Lofaro

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, 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. 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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How to find counseling in Encinitas

Finding the best therapist close by in Encinitas 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 Encinitas. 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 Encinitas, 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas, 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 Encinitas area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Encinitas 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas, 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas 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 92024 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas, 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.

Encinitas 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 Encinitas.

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

92007, 92023, 92024, 92075

Popular cities near Encinitas, CA

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