This is Elisabeth Welch's avatar and link to their profile

Elisabeth Welch

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issues
7 years of experience

My name is Elisabeth and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from California. I’ve done therapy in Los Angeles, Philadelphia and New York City but was educated at the University of Southern California. I am eager to hear about how you are doing. I have worked with clients for over seven years, specializing in relationship issues, parenting, and managing stress, anxiety and depression. Life challenges can really knock us down and make it hard to move forward. I am here to be your support. With compassion and empowering conversation, we can work together to help you live your best life. I can help you make important, impactful decisions in your life, or be there to listen when you just need someone to talk to. Numerous people suffer from anxiety and depression but did you know that they are very treatable health issues? Research shows that there are many concrete techniques that can really make a difference in helping you deal with those feelings. My combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy and Attachment Science can help you live a fulfilling and happy life on your terms. A notable client I’ve worked with was a single mother who suffered from extreme sadness and feelings of being overwhelmed in social situations. After determining she suffered from depression, we worked on behavioral techniques to alleviate the symptoms of depression such as helping her to learn to reframe negative thoughts, utilize calming techniques and engage in endorphin-boosting behavior. The next layer was helping to identify the type of situations that would trigger her depression or social anxiety. After identifying some previous life events that caused her great distress and trauma, we were able to help her understand and identify why she became unhealthily depressed and anxious. This lead to a more fulfilling social life and a more emotionally stable outlook on life. She has a new life partner and a much more optimistic view on life. I hope I can help you to find the balance and happiness that you deserve. I look forward to working with you!

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Amber Jones-Moore

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am excited to connect with you! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have over 10 years of experience working with individuals who may be struggling with a variety of issues and life situations. I have a flexible schedule and can accommodate your scheduling needs. I would like you to know that our sessions provide you with a safe space in which to talk about anything you wish and to express yourself openly with no judgement or criticism. Our time together is specifically to provide you with this safe space and for me to support you and your needs. My goal is for you to feel comfortable, supported, validated, and heard. I have a very open, collaborative approach to therapy and I am invested in supporting you to achieve your identified goals. Again, I am excited to get to know you better and to begin working with you more. I look forward to connecting with you real soon. I would like to leave you with the following quote: “Embrace uncertainty. Some of the most beautiful chapters in our lives won’t have a title until much later.” –Bob Goff

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Peggy Lingard

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

When I moved to California to accept the job of my dreams I experienced a significant JOLT! Nearly everything in my life changed - I lost a lot of my support system, I lost some of my self, I lost my ability to tap into my strengths and positives in my life. Fortunately I was guided to an excellent therapist who encouraged me to invest in people and activities that brought joy. The most important lesson I learned was to talk less and DO more! I re-connected with nature and began painting - and I still love to paint after 18 years. What is your story? What do you fear? What strengths can you count on? I was fortunate to train with professionals who are at the top of our field. I've mastered Family Systems Theory, Problem-solving, Divorce Mediation, Solution Focus and Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Resilience and Mindfulness. If you would like to know more about evidence-based therapies I'm glad to share the research and my thoughts about what is effective. However, after many years sitting with people who are experiencing anxiety from change, confusion about growth, grief or loss I believe that the alliance between therapist and client is the number one factor for success and change. So, we can borrow or practice anything from these excellent therapies I listed - for example, using mindfulness or distress tolerance skills from Dialectical Behavior Therapy - but I will always honor our alliance and insure that you feel heard and that you are my partner in directing therapy. A bit more about me - I am a Lesbian. I have three grown children and a wife who is African American. I don't claim to have mastered all the diversity in my life. That is a life-long journey. I feel graced by these layers of respect, forgiveness, open-heartedness and curiosity in relationships. I would not change any discomfort for what I have shared. So, I am excited to work with anyone who is willing to increase transparency and to let go of what is not working. My experience may be an asset, but I assure you that the best I can offer is to see each of you with fresh eyes. You are the strongest ingredient in growing your life.

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Kasey Wallace

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepressionADHD
7 years of experience

Hello, my name is Kasey Wallace, and I am an experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California! I have provided services to children, teens, young adults, individuals and families struggling with a variety of issues. I have worked with people challenged by depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, grief/loss, communication issues, life transitions, career concerns, poor self-esteem, and life changing situations. My approach is warm, strength based, and client centered. Together we will practice identifying and challenging unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to negative feelings, improve communication skills, process difficult experiences such as grief and loss and trauma, and improve feelings of low self-worth. I draw on multiple treatment modalities to guide clients in identifying strengths and developing treatment plans that accomplish their goals. I am here to support you and will even utilize humor when needed! Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy traveling, playing sports, cooking, arts, reading, and support all Bay Area sports teams. I am here to support you and look forward to working together.

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Sharricci Dancy

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Hello, welcome to my profile page. When I'm not providing therapeutic services for BetterHelp, I'm out in the field as a licensed clinical social worker for the County healthcare case management program. Over the past decade, I have had the privilege of journeying alongside adults and families facing mental health concerns, and let me tell you, it is my absolute passion! My toolbox is filled with therapeutic approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, client-centered therapy, and if you prefer, I can bring in psychoanalysis or narrative therapy too! Your comfort and receptiveness guide our sessions, ensuring we find what works best for you. In our time together, I'm not just a therapist—I am your companion, a guide, a vessel for you to explore your inner thoughts and feelings in a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space. I am genuinely excited to get to know you better and discover how I can help you on your therapeutic journey. Remember, taking the first step towards change is a courageous leap towards a happier, more fulfilling life, and if you are ready to take that leap, I am here to support and empower you every step of the way! :) So, what do you say? Let's kickstart your therapeutic journey together—schedule a session with me, and let's make some positive changes happen! Hope to talk with you soon. :) Take care, Sharri

This is Burton "Burt" Swaim's avatar and link to their profile

Burton "Burt" Swaim

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
50 years of experience

I am a licensed psychotherapist in California and Utah with over 50 years of professional experience. I have extensive successful experience helping individuals deal effectively with stress/anxiety, depression and helping clients reset and renew their efforts to achieve their life goals. I also have considerable experience helping clients deal with alcohol and drug related difficulties. I also help build and support goal setting, motivation, self esteem and work to increase confidence. This often involves relationship issues, and coping with previous loss, grief. and trauma. The overall strategy is identifying and Challenging the Inner, often unrealized Personal Potential. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts ,feelings and behaviors can be shared without judgment. It takes courage and willingness to seek out a more fulfilling , happier and meaningful life. I have a depth of life experience and a spirit that is a strength and resource in this personal growth. I thoroughly enjoy supporting my clients as they take their first steps towards positive change and healthy progress. Therapy is a collaborative process with clients in setting issues to work on in therapy and setting achievable goals and time setting for their progress. Active client participation in setting therapy goals is essential. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I am focused on helping you improve your developing comfort, happiness and success in your life. I am All In! I want you to overcome, accept deal with and Improve your :Life whatever the Challenges may be! Note: I have co-produced several Documentary films to Support Full Recovery from alcohol and chemical dependency. "Living Sober Class of '76" was acclaimed by Marty Mann Founder/Director of the National Council on Alcoholism as "The Best Film ever Made in the Field of Alcoholism". It was helpful in remove to some degree the Stigma of Recovery. I have also been a guest faculty in the Summer School on Alcohol Studies at the University of California at San Diego with Topics such as "Intimacy, Sexuality and Recovery. I helped in the Publishing of " I'm Back and I'm Sober" by Chaney Allen Washington. Her book was a Ground Breaking Success with many publications. I assisted the State of Montana with increasing Liquor Taxes to help fund the "Alcoholism Programs of Montana". I was able to serve as a personal consultant to the late Joan Kroc, McDonald Owner regarding her producing treatment and recovery documentary films for her Operation Cork Program. Joan Kroc donated $1,700,000,000 to the Salvation Army prior to her passing. These funds have helped many, many individuals recover from alcohol and drug use and continue to do so. Most recently my wife Shirley and I wrote and published via Amazon, "Rebirth of the Broken Branches'" a True Love Story! It emphasizes the Positive Aspects of Recovery. It is being considered by an Academy Award Winning writer for a televised movie.

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Kimberly Coady Heikkila

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Darlene Shipp-Estes's avatar and link to their profile

Darlene Shipp-Estes

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
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, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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. 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.

This is Linda Rojas's avatar and link to their profile

Linda Rojas

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf 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, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Beatriz Alcazar Alvarez's avatar and link to their profile

Beatriz Alcazar Alvarez

Offering therapy in CA
License: LICSW,CCSP-ADHD
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficulties
5 years of experience

My name is Beatriz and I'm a Chicana born and raised in California who loves to read, spend time with my family and watch movies. I believe my identity as a first generation BIPOC women influences my work as a practitioner and I try to ensure I am always creating an empowering and healing space for everyone I work with. I have been practicing as a social worker in a variety of settings for over a decade with the last 8 years specifically as a masters level clinician. I enjoy working with diverse populations that might need a little additional support as they navigate challenges that come up in daily life, and believe in the power of owning our own lived experience. I incorporate a blend of narrative therapy, motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy to my approach, though I tailor each session to the needs of the individual I am working with.

How to find counseling in Colma

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Colma 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 Colma 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 Colma 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 Colma, 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 Colma 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 Colma 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 Colma 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 Colma 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 Colma 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 94014 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 Colma 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 Colma 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 Colma, 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.

Colma 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 Colma.

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

94014

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