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. 

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Jennifer Bobadilla

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
8 years of experience

Hello, I am glad you are here. If this is your first time in therapy, this may feel overwhelming to walk into. I am glad that you are advocating for you and taking care of you, even if it feels hard to reach out. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe in the power in having a safe place to figure things out with someone who feels safe for you. Whatever hurdles you feel like are standing in your way right now, we can jump over them together at the pace you'd like. I am here to hold whatever you would like me to, so that you are getting what you want out of therapy. I want to help you feel supported and heard through warmth and compassion. My approach emphasizes self-care and self-compassion, connected and healthy relationships, and processing things through to increase your self-awareness. I have extensive experience in working with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, and self-esteem and confidence. I received my Bachelors Degree in Psychology and Masters Degree in Counseling from California State University, Fullerton. I am passionate about working from an attachment perspective. Outside of being a therapist, I enjoy drinking coffee with my husband and hanging out with my dog! I also love all things cooking, eating, and recipe-trying! I look forward to connecting with you. Jennifer

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Dr. Anushree Belur

Offering therapy in CA
License: Psy.D.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Seeking out therapy is an act of courage – it can be incredibly intimidating to acknowledge that you need additional support, and to then build up the strength to ask for that help! Once you start the process, however, you will find that therapy is a journey of self-discovery and self-improvement. I approach my role as a therapist with the goal of supporting you in this journey by creating a safe place for you to process your thoughts and emotions, and to help you explore and develop coping skills to change unhelpful patterns of behaviors. I have primarily worked with adults who have experienced anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and grief and loss. Additionally, I enjoy working with individuals exploring their identity from an intersectional and multicultural perspective. My style of therapy includes integrating humanistic and cognitive behavior therapy approaches along with mindfulness practices, as mindfulness has been shown to be effective in reducing stress and depressive symptoms. I strongly believe that individuals are experts on themselves, and therefore, focus on tailoring therapy to meet your needs. I am licensed as a clinical psychologist in California, and I look forward to being on this journey with you!

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Vani Burnette

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California with over 10 years of experience and also hold an undergraduate degree in nutrition and dietetics. I have worked with clients experiencing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and stress management. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and a variety of other client centered modalities. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for 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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Erin Haentjens

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA ,LMFT,Cert. Exercise and Sport Performance
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
8 years of experience

I believe in working with the whole person- mind, body and spirit through body-centered and movement-oriented psychotherapy. This means I support my clients to develop a deep trust in their own intuition and a positive relationship with their bodies and themselves. The awareness that comes with this work brings authentic self-acceptance, feelings of connection, and confidence. I provide a supportive and safe experience, giving my clients space to navigate through their lives in their own way while assisting them with recognizing and building on their strengths as well as their internal resources. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. In addition to a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology, I have a Graduate Certificate in Exercise and Sport Performance. I provide psychotherapy services to individuals and families who suffer from depression, stress and anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, eating disorders, addiction, and life changes. I have over 8 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in clinical and community settings. These settings include facilitating life skills camps for incarcerated and at-risk youth; counseling services to children, adolescents, and families in school, home, group home, and foster care settings; co-facilitating a women’s therapy group; individual psychotherapy to adults, and working with athletes and individuals with injuries. Additionally, I have experience supporting and coaching athletes of various abilities, age groups and persuasions. I understand from my own experience as a collegiate and semi-professional athlete how our identities become linked to our roles as players and team members as well as how our life-traumas, athletic training, and injuries impact our experience of ourselves and our bodies. Building on personal experience, I have a particular calling to work with individuals and athletes suffering from physical injuries supporting their rebuilding and resilience from the inside out. Credentials Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), California MA Counseling Psychology Somatic Specialization, John F. Kennedy University Graduate Certificate Exercise and Sport Performance, John F. Kennedy University

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Dr. Priscilla Sobremonte

Offering therapy in CA
License: Msw,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
24 years of experience

I served in the United States Air Force for 11 years. Graduated with MSW became a LCSW began working with severely emotionally disturbed children. Continued to work with a county mental health department with an agreement with juvenile justice. In this capacity worked with children, adolescence, families, and adolescents who were placed in juvenile hall. Worked in the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation as a Psychiatric Clinical Social Worker for many years with both male and female inmates, inpatient, outpatient and special units for chronic severe mental illness. Worked at Kaiser Permanente as a therapist with children and families, and crisis intake. Work experience with Veterans Health Care as a medical social worker supervisor and program coordinator. Began private practice in 2006 utilizing a client centered approach to determine treatment plan with the client (Cognitive Behavioral, Trauma Focused, Solution Focused, Relationship and family issues). Treatment approach is based on client's needs and preferences in a collaborate manner. *****PLEASE NOTE I am note able to write letters to employers for time off and or disability verification.****** AUTHOR Therapeutic Journaling: Making Sense of My Life, put together for clients who have struggled to make sense of life experiences this is based on Narrative Journaling.

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Dr. Skultip Sirikantraporn

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in New York and California with 10 years of professional work experience. As a licensed psychologist and a yoga instructor, I see the healing journey for all of us as holistic, fresh, and full of growing and healing possibilities for both our mind and body. I truly believe in everyone's full potential to create a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life, despite hardships and struggles. In fact, often it is the hardships and struggles that motivate us to get in touch with our strengths to overcome and thrive to live life to the fullest. I would like to have the honor to work with you in discovering ways to create life that is peaceful, meaningful, and joyful for you. My approach is a blend of cognitive behavioral, humanistic, and mind-body integrative interventions with your unique needs and style at the center of my work. I hope to get to work with you on your journey. 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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Brandy Malloy

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Therapist in California. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including stress management, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, establishing boundaries, self esteem issues, grief/loss, caregiver stress, and life transitions. My therapy style is collaborative . I believe in being truthful with my clients. I believe in treating them with respect and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, problem solving therapy, and acceptance commitment therapy. However, I’m able to tailor sessions and treatment plan to meet your unique needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life. Making a decision to take the first steps towards a change can be scary. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.

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Cynthia Roe

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQI+ -related issues, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with depression and mood dysregulation. I also have a passion for working with individual and families impacted by cancer. 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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Dr. Kym Codallos

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesADHD
19 years of experience

I am licensed in California, Colorado, and Wyoming with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, and substance use disorders. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Lauren Graovac

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
20 years of experience

I am a wellness coach and licensed psychotherapist combined for over 20 years in NY, and California. I bring my enthusiasm for healing and helping my clients reclaim their lives. My approach is holistic and includes mindfulness, DBT, Somatic and Psychodynamic. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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

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