Living in the sunshine state of California, it does not seem like anyone would be unhappy or stressed out. But, it does not matter where you live or how sunny it is, you can get depression or anxiety from a chemical imbalance or it could be inherited. The counselors based in Imperial Beach are dedicated to help those with mental health disorders like anxiety or depression. 

The mission statement of Imperial Beach is to maintain a classic southern California beach-oriented community. The town is focused on being safe and rich in culture and natural resources. This is the kind of town you want to raise a family in. But, if you have depression or anxiety, it's important to speak with a therapist so you can start feeling better. 

This is Jeff Hartwig's avatar and link to their profile

Jeff Hartwig

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,PPS,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
12 years of experience

Jeff began counseling youth in public school districts. His present work involves assisting adult individuals with: developing insights and coping skills, overcoming PTSD, anger, anxiety, depression, moving past grief, trauma and loss. His clients include a diverse population within the entertainment industry, medical professionals, social services, and military personnel. In addition, he also worked with athlete's to strengthen their mental focus. Jeff believes in having a non-judgmental approach through the process of listening to his clients. Jeff feels it has been an honor to assist clients in changing their lives. Jeff earned a Masters degree in Educational Counseling from Azusa Pacific University. He then began counseling in school districts, working with youth struggling through challenges of: parental conflict, divorce, ADHD, ADD, social anxiety, impulsive behaviors, stress and sports enhancement. Jeff returned to Azusa Pacific University to earn a Licensed Professional Clinical Counseling degree. He has since assisted adults through their personal struggles such as: anxiety, anger, depression, grief and loss, plus many other diagnoses. Jeff has also assisted individuals who simply desired a person to stand shoulder to shoulder when they desired a nonjudgmental ear. Jeff's belief is " As I assist those that seek me out, I know there are others in that person's life I may never meet. But the help I give will impact more than the person in front of me. That to me is an inspiring feeling."

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Sonia Gallegos

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
6 years of experience

I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California and Arizona with over 5 years of experience working as a therapist for a government agency. I have worked with clients with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, personality issues, and relationship challenges. My approach involves evidence based treatment and solution focused. I will individualize sessions and a treatment plan with your unique goals we explore together. I look forward to meeting you and being a part of this season in your life.

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Joshua Merrill

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT #125025
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

My name is Joshua Merrill, I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I have a passion for helping others and have worked in the field of mental health for 5 years. When conducting therapy I use techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused brief therapy, humanistic approaches, and other strength based approaches. I first found a passion for helping others when working as a personal trainer and majoring in kinesiology. Later, I stumbled upon sports psychology which caught my interest and ultimately I switched my major to psychology. Eventually I finished my bachelors degree while serving in the United States Army as a medic where I continued helping others. After serving I continued my education and graduated with a masters degree in psychology. Since then I have helped people struggling with mental health and life circumstances. I look forward to hearing your story and helping you along your life’s journey in overcoming life’s many obstacles and working towards your individualized goals.

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Trisha Stewart

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
15 years of experience

Hi my name is Trisha Stewart and I want to offer praise for reaching out today. It can take courage to ask for someone to listen when life is not going your way. It is difficult to believe that someone else can offer support that is going to make a difference. I hope that we can work together to find the space where you feel safe to work through what is troubling you and identify resources that support your steps forward. You don't have to do this alone. Here is a little information about me and how I can help: I have worked for 30 years helping children youth and families experiencing trauma. Prior to obtaining my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, I worked as a Social Worker helping children/teens and families involved in the social welfare system due to abuse and neglect. Since graduating in 2007, I have continued with the same focus on children, youth and families navigating the impact of trauma on their life. I also adopted my children through foster care and have developed an interest and competency in understanding the core issues of loss that children and the parents adopting them face, going through the adoptive process. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, LGBTQ IA and career challenges. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My focus is to work collaboratively with you to identify what is distressing for you and then work together to find ways that will help you identify solutions. The goal is to help you find a safe space to be heard and learn to trust that the solutions are inside of you. In my practice I take a supportive empowering and interactive role using different interventions including solution focused, narrative, cognitive behavioral and experiential therapy. We will determine what works best for you, I believe learning to trust your own process of discovering who you are, is the most important factor in making change in your life. I hope to help you recognize that you have what you need to do this.

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Deanna Jefferson

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping 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 relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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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Dr. James Decker

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

I am licensed in California with 45 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 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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Mechelle Robinson

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteem
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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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Kimberly Fouche'

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
11 years of experience

The changes in the world today can be unbalancing and having a guide to help one find ways to re-balance is important to one's well-being. I Have had life experience in dealing with trauma which guided me to become engaged in the study of psychology. I saw the need for more understanding of the mind and the human experience. Anxiety and depression affect the whole person: psycho-spiritually, physically, mentally, and physiologically. The signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression will manifest at every level. Imagine working together to find your own therapeutic tune to your life song… I am licensed in California with 11 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, cancer, immuno disorders, and physical pain.. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.

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This is Syed Shayan Mehdi's avatar and link to their profile

Syed Shayan Mehdi

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

I've had a spiritual near-death experience, lost my loving mother to Cancer, immigrated as a child, lived under an oppressive regime in the Middle East as a minority, experienced complex family dynamics and through it all still believe that we are all meant to shine our light in this world. You may be reading this while at your lowest point in life but don't worry, I'm here to guide you back to your true self ("Remember Who You Are"). I'm a compassionate therapist who believes in the transformative power of healing through a holistic approach. With a deep understanding of the mind-body-spirit connection, I will successfully guide you through your journey of inner peace, emotional well-being & personal growth. My therapeutic approach combines evidence-based practices with mindfulness techniques, allowing you to explore your inner child, cultivate self-awareness, and develop effective coping strategies to address challenges such as anxiety, trauma, and depression. What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you? I provide a safe & nurturing space where you can explore your inner child & develop a sense of inner peace. By cultivating mindfulness & awareness, you'll learn to observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment, gaining a greater understanding of your patterns and triggers. I firmly believe that true healing lies in self-discovery and the cultivation of one's inner wisdom. In our sessions, you will embark on a journey of self-exploration, guided by the principles of mindfulness and spirituality. Together, we'll uncover underlying beliefs, patterns, and traumas that may be contributing to your anxiety, trauma & depression. We'll create a therapeutic journey that honors your unique experiences and supports your transformation toward a more fulfilling & balanced life. What treatment methods and tools do you utilize? Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Attachment-based Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Existential Family Systems Forensic Psychology Integrative Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Motivational Interviewing Person-Centered Positive Psychology Solution Focused Brief (SFBT) Strength-Based Trauma Focused Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths. I would say my ability to connect with you on a deep level & being able to carry your vulnerability where you feel heard & understood is my gift as I guide you & inspire you toward a solution to your life's problems. I'm grounded, spiritual & honor good values. I used to work in the Tech field so I'm aware of how "perfect" your life might feel to the outside world however chaotic things may be on the inside. I've provided therapy in prisons, schools, non-profits, government offices, hospitals, hospices & psychiatric institutions so my "well-rounded" experience prepares me for any issue you may present to me. My name means "Light" so my greatest gift to you is us shedding a 'light' on your problems and finding compassionate solutions to help you overcome all your challenges in life.

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This is Herlay Divine's avatar and link to their profile

Herlay Divine

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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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How to find counseling in Imperial Beach

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach, 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach 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 91933 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach, 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.

Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach.

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

91932, 91933, 92154

Popular cities near Imperial Beach, CA

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