This is Earl Liotti's avatar and link to their profile

Earl Liotti

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
9 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist with over nine years of experience working in psychotherapy. I have experience in many areas of mental health treatment with most of my experience being in treating addiction, trauma, (including PTSD and related problems), anxiety, depression, major life changes, veterans issues, and grief. I have specific training and experience working with emotional and physical trauma. My style is non-judgemental and empathetic; I consider myself very compassionate. My approach is to meet you within the experience you are having; whatever it is to you, that is where we start. I use different counseling methods depending on the situation and need, with cognitive-behavioral, reality, rational-emotive, and guided imagery as the most often used. The decision to seek therapy can be coupled with mixed feelings; I have not forgotten that as I have been there myself. If you are feeling the desire to make a change in your life, I would like to help. Let's talk about it.

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Leonard Burns

Offering therapy in CA
License: M.A. LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
33 years of experience

I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California since 1990. My background includes a combination of family systems and psychodynamic approaches, seasoned with many years of experience. What I have come to understand over the years is that the bedrock of successful psychotherapy is a strong, honest relationship between therapist and client. Only upon this foundation of trust is change possible.     I have many years of experience assisting clients in recovering from complex PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, cancer survivorship, and finding peace with identity in a world that is often unkind to those whose lifestyles would not be described as traditional. I know from my personal journey that change is possible, while often difficult and terrifying. If you are ready to commit to the journey, I am here to be at your side along the rocky path.

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Michelle Stanton White

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteem
9 years of experience

Life is difficult and, at one time or another, everyone needs extra support. I am here to help you alleviate your anxiety, grief, depression... whatever that has brought you here today. Perhaps you only need some assistance to resolve a problem or to deal with a difficult relationship. You have made the right decision to get some help. I left a successful career in the computer industry to become a Marriage and Family Therapist because I love helping people lead better lives. I’m an active therapist, collaborating with my clients to help them recognize self-defeating behavior, change their perspective, and make the right choice. I may use one or more empirically-supported techniques—Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused, Strategic Family, Motivational Interviewing, etc.—depending on the situation. But fundamentally, I believe change can only occur if my clients and I have a warm, trusting relationship. My goal is to help you move beyond your current difficulties so that you can achieve a happier and more productive life.

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Elizabeth Robinson

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW,LISW-CP,APHSW-C
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

As a compassionate and collaborative Social Worker, I bring over 30 years of experience in mental health and healthcare with the past 5 years devoted specifically to providing individual therapy. My various training and specializations in emotional regulation, mood and stress management, burnout and self-care, grief and loss, cognitive restructuring, and palliative care and serious illness conversations equip me to deliver a well-rounded and eclectic approach. I have knowledge and experience working with individuals living with anxiety, depression, trauma history, chronic/serious illness, grief and loss, and difficulty adjusting to life stressors and transitions. Some therapy interventions I am informed on are cognitive behavioral and processing therapy, solution focused therapy, polyvagal therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing. Do you ever walk through life wondering if you can feel better or if you will ever be able to discover the best version of you? Do you sometimes feel stuck and wonder how to move forward? We all get stuck and might be plagued with uncertainty, self-doubt, and confusion on what direction to go or how to climb out of the place we are in. I value the therapeutic relationship and the power of this collaborative work. My approach to this collaborative relationship is from a strengths-based perspective and incorporates various interventions to meet your unique and specific needs. I work as a partner to explore and empower change based on the communicated therapeutic goals. I am an empathetic and engaged listener who believes the individual is deserving of respect and dignity, and I provide this in a nonjudgmental, warm manner. I acknowledge the courage and strength it takes to take this step and am here to support and empower your journey. Every one of us is a constant work in progress. We all strive to be the best versions of ourselves and seek relationships and connections with others who will be supportive in our journey. Therapy can be a safe place to explore and discover your strengths and abilities, learn strategies and tools to improve day to day life, and practice and evaluate ways to benefit your relationships and interactions outside of this space. Another important aspect of therapy is to learn how to challenge and restructure the learned thought processes we have grown accustomed to through inserting flexibility, recognizing alternatives and options, building awareness of the positives, and allowing for time, space, and nurturing. The relationship and connection between you and I (therapist) are of the utmost importance. This interaction is what opens doors, builds trust, and instills possibilities. Part of the strength of our relationship is the ability to be open and honest with each other in a compassionate, helpful, and reciprocal way. It is beneficial for me as the therapist to welcome feedback in negative and positive forms in order to develop my therapeutic relationship and rapport with you. Another factor that makes therapy successful is your commitment to practicing and applying the tools and strategies learned within the therapeutic setting in your daily life. This time in therapy is a tiny fraction of your life and is merely a practice run. Consistency and repetition are what allow for change and restructuring of your thoughts and habits.

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Philip Beitel

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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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Michele Kahn

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Arizona with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy-related issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe that you are the expert on your story and have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. I have many years of experience in the creative arts and like to incorporate different tools . I believe everyone has the ability to make a wonderful life for themselves. Sometimes we need help! 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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Patricia Castillo

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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 Jean Juarez's avatar and link to their profile

Jean Juarez

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issues
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients cope with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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 ask for and seek help is a courageous one, and I recognize you for this.

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Michael Jones

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionADHD
23 years of experience

I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 23 years of experience, proudly serving the diverse state of California. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working in various settings, from private practice to community mental health agencies, outpatient, and inpatient facilities. My passion lies in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges. Whether it's anxiety, mood disorders, attention issues, or matters related to family dynamics, relationships, or LGBTQ+ concerns, I'm here to provide the support and guidance you need. I have a specialized focus on treating panic disorder and OCD. These conditions can be particularly challenging, and I have dedicated myself to developing effective strategies for addressing them. My therapeutic approach is rooted in warmth, compassion, and respect. I believe in the power of mindfulness and draw from cognitive-behavioral, existential, and psychodynamic therapy techniques. Together, we'll explore your unique journey and work towards finding the answers that are already within you. I view therapy as a collaborative process, where my role is to facilitate your self-discovery and growth. I treat every client with unwavering respect, dignity, and sensitivity. Your unique experiences and perspectives are valued in our therapeutic relationship, and I am committed to creating a safe, inclusive space where you can explore, heal, and thrive. I look forward to joining you on this transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Together, we can unlock your potential and pave the way to a more fulfilling and happier life.

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

Ruben Rojas

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepression
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, coping with grief and loss, & 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!

How to find counseling in Del Mar

Finding the best therapist close by in Del Mar 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 Del Mar. 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 Del Mar, 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar, 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 Del Mar area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar, 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 92014 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar, 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.

Del Mar 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 Del Mar.

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

92014

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