Los Altos was listed as the third most expensive zip code in the United States in 2017 by Forbes, with the homes averaging almost eight million dollars. In fact, the founders of Apple, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak started the company in Jobs’ garage in Los Altos in 1976. 

Even though the city is booming, they insist on keeping their community partially rural, keeping many parks, tree-lined streets, and recreational areas all over town. According to experts, living in a rural area is better than city life when it comes to your mental health. However, if you need to talk to a mental health professional, there are dozens of them located in Los Altos. 

This is Alison Murphy's avatar and link to their profile

Alison Murphy

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

Hi, my name is Alison. If you're here, that means you're looking for something, and I'd love to help. Congratulations on taking a huge step in thinking about asking for support. Over the years, I've helped lots of people at many different stages of their life work to have more control, more safety and more stability. Whether you are dealing with something new, a long term challenge, or if you just know something's not right and you can't put a finger on it, we should talk. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from California and my work with individuals and couples has been to support people in cultivating tools to improve how they manage the challenges they are facing. I'm an experienced therapist who has worked with diverse individuals around issues of trauma, depression, grief & loss, anxiety, substance abuse and interpersonal difficulties. My work with individuals is centered around the goals we develop together to improve their relationships, coping skills and emotional experiences. I approach the work with an open mind, an open heart and without judgement. You are the expert in your experience and I am here to help you identify where we can focus your energy to maximize your use of therapy. Together, we can use my clinical experience and training to personalize interventions that make the most sense for your individual goals. You should know that I attended San Francisco State University for my bachelors in Social Work (2005) as well as my for Masters in Social Work (2007) which provided a strong foundation in the value of Social Justice which is integrated into all my clinical work. My approach to this work is also guided by the ethical guidelines of the National Association of Social Workers and promotes self-determination, respect for others and the importance of human relationships. Since my work is based in these principles, if we work together, I promise you will feel seen, you will feel safe and you will feel better. Thank you for reading, I look forward to hearing from you.

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Matthew Heimark

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

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

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Ellen Golding

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

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

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Timothy Cunningham

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSleeping disordersSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

My therapeutic approach aims to meet my clients where they are at with what they are struggling with. Whether that is stress, depression, anxiety, sleep related issues or motivation, the goal is improvement and tools to manage these issues. I look to provide support with the situations that are currently affecting client’s health and progress towards a better life and more positive future. I am trained in art therapy techniques as well as sleep healthcare. I excel in finding personal strengths, support and strategies to manage life’s difficulties in a non-judgmental, safe space. Your health is important, I hope to become a part of your journey towards the self you want to be.

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This is Chelsy Duffer-Dunbar's avatar and link to their profile

Chelsy Duffer-Dunbar

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
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, 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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Monica Gutierrez

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
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, relationship issues, 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. 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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Whitney Bruice

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional work experience. I enjoy working with clients who want to learn to cope with stress and anxiety, improve relationships, process grief and loss, and improve motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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This is Catherine Chambliss's avatar and link to their profile

Catherine Chambliss

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
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, 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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This is Felicia Hermle's avatar and link to their profile

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 Yerina Knoblock's avatar and link to their profile

Yerina Knoblock

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, licensed in California and Georgia with 19 years of professional experience. I currently serve a broad spectrum of clients. Among my areas of expertise are trauma, abuse, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, co-dependency and self-esteem. I am an interactive therapist. My therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. I understand that taking the first step toward seeking support is a significant decision, and I am here to guide you on your journey. While we can’t change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Whether you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.

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How to find counseling in Los Altos

Finding the best therapist close by in Los Altos 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 Los Altos. 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 Los Altos, 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 Los Altos 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 Los Altos 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 Los Altos, elsewhere in Santa Clara, 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 Los Altos area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Los Altos 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 Los Altos 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 Los Altos 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 Los Altos, 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 Los Altos 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 Los Altos 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 Los Altos 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 Los Altos 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 Los Altos 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 94024 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 Los Altos 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 Los Altos 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 Los Altos, 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.

Los Altos 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 Los Altos.

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

94022, 94023, 94024

Popular cities near Los Altos, CA

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