Life can be like an island. Sometimes, it’s a nice retreat you can enjoy and live a fun life under the sun. Other times, you may feel stranded with no place to go. In a situation such as that one, who can help you? Anxiety, depression, and other life problems can make you stranded. However, a counselor based in Alameda can help. 

Alameda is known as the Island City. Everyone has their own island, and it can paradise or purgatory. A counselor can help improve your mental state and you can make your own island feel a little more like a beach worth exploring. 

This is Dr. Arti Nigam's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Arti Nigam

Offering therapy in CA
License: PhD
Family conflictsGriefParenting issuesCareer difficulties
12 years of experience

I have been working as a licensed psychologist in California since 2006. I have worked with children and teens as well as with adults, including the elderly. I work to help people deal with both internal and external emotional challenges. These include issues of anxiety, depression, life crisis or acute trauma, life transitions, cultural adjustment, interpersonal conflict at home or at work, feelings of loneliness or hopelessness, and fears that carry over from the past. My therapeutic approach is informed by cognitive-behavioral and humanistic theories. I believe that the power to heal is within each of us. When you feel accepted as you are, when you feel unconditional positive regard, you can feel safe, and allow yourself to trust enough to let go of mental filters that keep you stuck. With some guidance, you can identify thought and behavior patterns that might prevent things from changing; you can identify ways to make things better, as well as finding ways to make peace with those things that can not change.

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Aileen Stein

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

Hello. Welcome to my profile. I am a licensed psychotherapist since 1992 in both New York and California. I believe that building a trusting relationship in a safe environment is the first step toward successful therapy. Psychotherapy is a two-way relationship. One of my strengths is listening. I feel one of the most basic wishes of a client is to be heard. I want to understand the issues the client identifies as well as the unspoken issues that may impede growth. My work begins “where the client is” with no agenda or judgment. As our work together progresses, I will encourage and motivate the client toward reaching goals he or she has set. However, I will employ these methods in a timely manner, when I determine the client is ready to take another step forward. I primarily practice Psychodynamic Psychotherapy . I'm also schooled in Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness Therapy. I studied at New York University where I received my MSW in 1992. I've treated children, adults and seniors and am passionate about working with all age groups. It's very fulfilling to witness people reach their goals. I have experience in a variety of settings, including hospitals as a medical social worker and counseling centers as a psychotherapist. I've also worked in Intensive Outpatient Programs treating the chronically mentally ill. Among the issues I've explored with clients are depression, anxiety and health issues, as well as domestic violence, PTSD and trauma. I check messages several times per day and will respond within 24 hours. Thank you for reading my profile. I look forward to meeting you.

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Dr. James Chavers

Offering therapy in CA
License: PsyD,MACP
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

It is by suffering that human beings become angels. – Victor Hugo Hello, my name is James Chavers. Thank you for taking the time to read my counselor profile. I am a clinical psychologist licensed and living in California. I earned my masters and doctorate in clinical psychology at Antioch University Santa Barbara. I have worked and trained in locked settings (jails and prisons), community health clinics, and colleges and universities for 9 years. I have worked with older adults living with HIV, addiction, and life course diseases, inmates of all genders preparing to transition out of locked settings, and students from 18-50+ navigating the difficulties of college life. Collaborating with my patients, we have worked through relationship, substance abuse, family, gender, sexuality, sexual assault, mood, and trauma issues, to name a few. My clients and I have worked together using a variety of modalities including Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Motivational Interviewing, and Client-centered Therapy. Incorporating Humanistic philosophies in my work, I believe that every person is deserving of love and respect. Each person is the expert of their own life. My purpose as a therapist is to support, suggest, and succor as needed. Finding the right counselor is akin to meeting a great friend. You want someone in your life who accepts you unconditionally, but is not afraid to call you out when you do something stupid. This friend takes the time to listen carefully to what’s going on, and then if you like, shares some insight. This friend is solidly in your corner and makes you feel like you are the most important person in the room. This friend stands by you and walks by your side as you work through your challenges. I have been blessed to have people like that in my life. If you give me the privilege, I would like to pay those experiences forward…to you. James Chavers PSY32025 Pronouns: He, him, his

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This is Janeen Fabulae's avatar and link to their profile

Janeen Fabulae

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

I am a family marriage therapist with over 20 years of Hospice experience in Northern California. I have worked with many families and individuals regarding grief , loss and bereavement.Loss is not just the loss of someone there are many different types of loss , divorce , job , relationship , animal and children going off to school , my experience has lead me to be able to work with clients and the many types of loss . I am a client centered therapist and use a combination of CBT , and grief education regarding the many normal and natural phases of grief that culturally we haven’t been educated on . I work with many different modalities regarding the anxiety and trauma that one can experience when going through loss . It’s been an honor for me to be able to work with clients as they enter into a new chapter in their lives the human spirit is so resilient as long as we realize that we are not alone . I am here to go through this journey with you and to watch you heal and become resilient in this new chapter . I look forward to working with you.

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Catherine (Cathy) Groh

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hello, I am a licensed clinical social worker with 25 years experience in the field. I have worked with clients of all ages, ethnicities and sexual orientation, presenting a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, change of life circumstances and eating disorders. I have also worked with many people who have experienced physical trauma and emotional abuse. My approach to therapy is warm and interactive. I believe in treating clients with respect and dignity and will provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment to explore your concerns. I mainly utilize a client centered approach to therapy, this allows you to direct the course of therapy and I to guide you. I recognize the courage it takes to seek help and take steps toward leading a happier and more fulfilling life. I am here to support you and look forward to working with you.

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Rebecca Hanson

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & depression. Working for the military since 1992, and having been in the military (way back in 88), I got a richness I didn’t expect (both because of how bad it can be, and how good it can be). I am grateful even with the ugly parts. Every moment makes us who we are. I love working with as many different cultures, beliefs, ages and oddities as I can experience. If you feel very much a part of the world, then I am fascinated with how you did that, and can share in the joy of how it feels to take a strong role in making one self a part of the world….and if you feel isolated, I can very much relate to that, having spent decades feeling that way. I tend toward tailoring the experience toward the individual, so if you are logical we can go that way, or spiritual, or sensual, or artistic in your endeavors, all that appeals to me. Even each session can be different depending on what your sense is that day. I have some training in various therapeutic efforts such as Coaching style, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing (body-based therapy), mindfulness and meditation. I love the challenge of making the session your very own and will ask for your input and feedback each time, if you want to give it. If you want to explore and excavate and get curious, we might be a match for teamwork on your counseling experience. Bring your story, your cherished values, your strengths and your weaknesses. Let’s begin a heroic journey about your life and toward what truth and authentic self you will return.

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This is Josephina Leveroni's avatar and link to their profile

Josephina Leveroni

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
4 years of experience

Hi y'all! Welcome to my profile. I'm Jojo Leveroni-- a licensed clinical social worker in Massachusetts with 4 years of professional work experience. I have worked in both hospital settings and residential settings with people of all ages, but primarily with kids, teens and young adults. I have a passion for helping others learn about themselves and resolve issues that come up with friends, families, and their inner self. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I do my best to be as transparent and real with my clients to create an open and safe environment where they can feel comfortable telling me anything without fear of judgment. I know it takes so much courage to ask for help and I'm glad you're here. Hope to see you soon!

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This is Qyonna Grady's avatar and link to their profile

Qyonna Grady

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefIntimacy-related issuesCareer difficultiesDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 2 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, intimacy related issues, & career difficulties. 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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This is Rhea Bernstein's avatar and link to their profile

Rhea Bernstein

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping 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 coping with addictions, family conflicts, intimacy related issues, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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This is Edwin Hernandez's avatar and link to their profile

Edwin Hernandez

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to 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 Alameda

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Alameda 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 Alameda 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 Alameda 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 Alameda, 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 Alameda 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 Alameda 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 Alameda 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 Alameda 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 Alameda 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 94501 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 Alameda 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 Alameda 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 Alameda, 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.

Alameda 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 Alameda.

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

94501, 94502

Popular cities near Alameda, CA

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