When it comes to finding a therapist, San Francisco, CA has more options than many other more rural areas, but independent practice practitioners in your PPO plan may not be what you need. And using out of network benefits on a licensed psychologist not in your network can get expensive in the city. That’s where online therapy with an online platform like BetterHelp can help. BetterHelp offers over 30,000 licensed professionals that provide online psychotherapy comparable to what you can get with in-person sessions. 

Online psychotherapy with BetterHelp can target any number of mental health challenges like unresolved trauma, social anxiety, stress management, and improving emotional intelligence. In addition, therapists are trained in a variety of specialties such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and emotionally focused therapy. To get started, you’ll fill out an online questionnaire that will match you with a licensed therapist that meets your wants and needs. If you don’t feel that you have a good rapport with your therapist, you can switch until you find your perfect match at no additional cost. 

With online therapy it can be easier to take that first step of seeking the help you need, whether you want to find treatment for a mental health condition like depression or anxiety, or have been meaning to work on self-actualization. If you are looking for any type of talk therapy in the San Francisco area, the licensed professional therapists at BetterHelp can get you started on your journey to better mental health and well-being.

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Charlene Selsvold

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

Hello, Asking for help takes courage and intention. I am a well seasoned licensed clinical social worker in California with extensive experience in working with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, grief, depression, life transitions, trauma and relationship challenges. Each of us is on a life journey that presents unique challenges. Sometimes feelings emerge that we do not understand or know how to cope with. I offer a supportive environment with unconditional positive regard for your healing journey. We all have a story to tell and sometimes it is simply learning how to be more mindful and responding differently that creates a positive change. Over the past 30+ years, I have developed an integrative approach to the therapeutic journey that encompasses traditional psychotherapies such as cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, mindfulness and psychodynamic modalities. This is complemented by alternative therapies such as breathing techniques from yoga and meditation. I have been a registered yoga teacher, 200 hrs, since 2008. The approaches used are defined by you as we dialogue, using what will work best for you. I will work collaboratively with you, addressing Issues that are defined by you with the goal of decreasing symptoms, increasing healthy coping skills, improving interpersonal communication, and developing a more mindful awareness and alignment of mind/body/spirit. If you are ready to take the step to ask for help in your life journey, I would be humbled to hear from you and begin the therapeutic process of reaching your goals.

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Sally Schoellkopf

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Are you experiencing change and challenges in your life? Do you feel more tired, frustrated, anxious, disappointed, unheard or sad? You may be facing the struggles of being a parent, coping with grief, or having difficulties communicating with your partner or family member. Maybe you are just feeling overwhelmed, stuck, worried, less confident and disconnected from others. As a California-licensed Marriage, Family and Child Therapist with over 20 years of experience, I am here to help you find greater well-being, self-acceptance and resolve the issues that are preventing you from living the full and positive life that you deserve. In my private practice and other settings, including schools, hospice, bereavement and agency centers, I have counseled adults, children, adolescents, families and groups to help them gain self-awareness, new insights and create positive change. We will work together as I support you toward a life with balance, empowerment, and an increased sense of well-being. I am committed to providing a safe, supportive and empathic environment to create your purpose, develop healthier relationships and grow as an individual. Everyone is unique with their own inner strengths and capabilities. I use an eclectic approach that matches your individual needs and goals. I incorporate cognitive work, mindfulness, psychodynamic perspectives, relaxation techniques, family systems, solutions-focused therapy, and self-compassion to help you reach your goals. I look forward to meeting and taking this journey with you!

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Karen Buroff

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
15 years of experience

I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Connecticut over 15 years of experience working as a Social Worker and Clinician. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic and persistent mental illness, self esteem issues, relationship issues and life changes. I have worked extensively with military members (Active Duty and Veterans) and have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse (both combat and non-combat related). My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is always trauma informed, and I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma informed approach (ARC Trained), and Mind Body Resiliency (MBRT) Master Trainer. I am committed to being Client focused and strengths based. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Lauren Martin-Culp

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteem
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of psychotherapy counseling experience. I customize sessions based on clients' needs with my background and extensive training in Interpersonal Neurobiology. I have experience as a professional teacher of all levels, school counselor, birth and postpartum doula, holistic bodyworker, filmmaker, published author, artist, writer, speaker at conferences, and parent. I have been professionally trained in natural health, supplements, and nutrition. I'm so glad that you have taken the first step by reaching out. I listen carefully, deeply and customized tools and strategies with you to find real experiential solutions. My clients tell me that they appreciate how I remember important details their stories. Together we work to create a mindful safe environment without evaluation.

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Renee Gonyier

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
32 years of experience

I am licensed in California and New Mexico with 30 years of professional work experience. I have worked in private practice as well as an Employee Assistant Counselor for large companies and for a major film studio. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & coping with grief and loss. 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 pleased you have reached out to get the help you need.

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Susan T Lindau

Offering therapy in CA
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with more than 20 years of professional experience. I have experience in helping clients with a number of issues including trauma and life stressors. I honor each client and treat with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your own unique goals. It takes courage to take steps towards a happier, fulfilling life. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Ross Zellner

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, Anxiety
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with OCD, stress and anxiety. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Roger Schwarz

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issues
27 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues. 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 Guillermo Da Silva-Montemayor's avatar and link to their profile

Guillermo Da Silva-Montemayor

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years of experience

I am a bilingual (English-Spanish) licensed Marriage and Family Psychotherapist in California with 14 years of professional work experience. 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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Annelise Shafer

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 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, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find counseling in San Francisco

Finding the best therapist close by in San Francisco can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in San Francisco. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in San Francisco, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in San Francisco or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater San Francisco area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of San Francisco, elsewhere in San Francisco, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the San Francisco area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed San Francisco therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in San Francisco due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in San Francisco may not take health insurance, some in the state of California may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in San Francisco, California working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in San Francisco above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in San Francisco helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified San Francisco therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a San Francisco therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A San Francisco 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 94158 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a San Francisco counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A San Francisco licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in San Francisco, California can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

San Francisco has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of San Francisco.

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

94102, 94103, 94104, 94105, 94107, 94108, 94109, 94110, 94111, 94112, 94114, 94115, 94116, 94117, 94118, 94119, 94120, 94121, 94122, 94123, 94124, 94125, 94126, 94127, 94129, 94130, 94131, 94132, 94133, 94134, 94137, 94139, 94140, 94141, 94142, 94143, 94144, 94145, 94146, 94147, 94151, 94158, 94159, 94160, 94161, 94163, 94164, 94172, 94177, 94188

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