Life can feel like walking across a cornfield. It can be a fun experience filled with delicious corn for you to eat, or it can feel like a maze you can’t get out of. If it’s the latter, a counselor based in Milpitas can help. Anxiety, depression, and various other mental ills can make your life tough to navigate, but a counselor can help you by giving you an exit you can escape from as long as you can follow it. 

Milpitas means “place of little cornfields.” Everyone is navigating through their own cornfield, and a counselor can be your navigator. 

This is Ajila Harris's avatar and link to their profile

Ajila Harris

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

Hello, I am Ajila pronounced (Ah-Ji-Lay) I have a Master's degree in Social Work and have attained my License in Clinical Social Work (LCSW) . I have been doing therapy for 18 years. My primary focus is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). With CBT I tend to provide homework because, therapy isn't for the me to fix things, but for me to provide you with the tools that can be applied for you to succeed. Homework also helps between sessions by practicing the tool on issues we discussed during the session. I approach each individual with respect and openness to listening to their story in order to identify goals and strategies that will address concerns. My experience has been working with adults, homeless, veterans and geriatric individuals. I am looking forward to working with you.

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Melissa Coulson

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW,Certified Grief Counseling Specialist (CGCS)
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a social worker licensed in California with 4 years of experience working as a medical social worker and clinician. I have assisted clients with concerns including depression, anxiety, grief, chronic pain, and chronic illness among others. I have also worked with clients who just need someone to support them through challenging experiences, emotions, and life changes. My style is direct, positive, and warm with a focus on supporting clients but holding them accountable to their goals for treatment. You are coming here to gain the tools and understanding to deal with something in your life and I would love to be your partner in that! I believe in helping clients to build their mental toolbox to address current issues and be better prepared to meet new challenges with confidence throughout the rest of their lives. My holistic approach includes techniques and components of cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, and humanistic therapies combined with motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and other interventions as needed to address each client's concerns individually . I also have additional training in grief and bereavement, cognitive-behavioral, solution focused, and acceptance and commitment therapies. I will structure our sessions and treatment plan to meet your needs and goals so we can address what brings you to this platform together. My clients say I am easy to open up to, genuine, and a good listener. I would love to connect with you to help you through your current season of life and whatever challenges you are currently facing.

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Jennifer Myers

Offering therapy in CA
License: M.A.,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Welcome, and thank you for viewing my profile! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both California and Nevada with 13 years of experience helping people overcome the effects of trauma, overcome anxiety and chronic stress, and how to assimilate the challenges brought on by grief and life transitions. I hold a Master of Arts in Psychology (2011) from Brandman University, and Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a Minor in Music from California State University, Sacramento (2004). The majority of my clinical experience has been working with trauma survivors, including survivors of violent crime, domestic violence and child abuse. I have worked as a therapist in private practice, government agencies, and community non-profit clinics. I have also worked in the social service fields as an Employment Services Social Worker, a Child Protective Services Social Worker, and a Foster Family Agency Social Worker. All of these experiences have shaped my approach to working with individuals of diverse life circumstances, and those experiences have given me a profound respect for the challenges that humans face on a daily basis while also providing inspiration as to the resilience of the human spirit. When working with my clients, I use imagery, metaphor, and humor to help them understand and internalize concepts that help them regain control over their lives. Clients often say they appreciate my ability to be "real" with them while also being sensitive, empathetic, and professional. I feel it is important to create a safe space for my clients to openly and honestly share their experiences, no matter the topic, and I encourage any and all questions you might have. I also understand that my clients are relying on me for equally open and honest feedback, and I provide that in a gentle yet meaningful and actionable way. I also believe it is essential that my clients have a clear understanding of how our process works, and to that end and as much as humanly possible, I make sure they always know what to expect from our professional relationship. I very much enjoy working with highly-motivated individuals looking to take charge of their future while healing their past. Let's make a plan about how we can get you from where you are to where you want to be! I look forward to meeting you soon! Warmly, Jen

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Terrie Pittman

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

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. My years of experience has allowed me to work with a plethora of clients, which includes parenting, pre-marital counseling, anger management, domestic violence, and marriage maintenance. I am here to help.

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Elana Lesse

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
6 years of experience

Welcome! I'm so glad you took the step toward seeking therapy as a tool for support. I'm glad you're here. I'm Elana Lesse, a licensed professional clinical counselor in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I am passionate about helping clients to achieve positive change, mental wellbeing, and fullness of life. Whether you are experiencing new or ongoing challenges, my job is to provide a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space for you to talk, process, and problem solve. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (adhd). I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. 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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Shannan OConnor

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & intimacy related issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Brooke Wahlund's avatar and link to their profile

Brooke Wahlund

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. My goal is to provide my clients with a safe, non-judgemental space to process their emotions, increase self-awareness, and build upon their strengths, allowing them to become the very best versions of themselves. I provide therapy from a humanistic, interpersonal perspective. I understand that beginning therapy can feel overwhelming. It is my hope that, by building a positive relationship with my clients in the initial phases of therapy, they will feel an increased level of safety throughout the process. It is my opinion that establishing safety and building connection are the first steps on any healing journey. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, building motivation and self esteem & 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 the things that challenge you. I look forward to supporting you on this journey.

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Kathy Rose

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
39 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 39 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem and confidence, & 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Sylvia Petitt

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & depression. I am also EMDR trained. 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 Joseph F Dolowy III's avatar and link to their profile

Joseph F Dolowy III

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

My name rhymes: Joey Dolowy and my main driver in life is to help people. I really like being of service and love my job. I have been professionally employed as a therapist in California since 1998 and have a great deal of experience. I have specialized in the following areas: depression: anxiety: chemical dependency/addiction issues (which has been a life long search as a friend OD'D when I was 13 and I have spent the ensuing decades reading and learning about addiction and drugs) : self harm: teen issues: phase of life issues: bullying: self esteem/self image: grief and loss and of course marital issues. I will listen and I will tailor our sessions and treatment plan to serve you. Finding a therapist can be complicated and I am simply here to help you: please contact me and let me start helping you. I specialize in providing sessions while hiking, biking, skating and even surfing. Thank you for taking the time to read this. I am here for you: CHEERS.

How to find counseling in Milpitas

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Milpitas 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 Milpitas 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 Milpitas 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 Milpitas, 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 Milpitas 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 Milpitas 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 Milpitas 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 Milpitas 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 Milpitas 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 95035 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 Milpitas 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 Milpitas 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 Milpitas, 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.

Milpitas 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 Milpitas.

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

95035

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