Being near the Pacific Ocean can be great, but sometimes the ocean in your head can be tough to traverse. Luckily, with the help of a counselor in Pacifica, you’ll be able to easily create the life that you want.

Pacifica is actually spread along a 6-mile stretch of beaches all along the coast, and it even has small valleys. It’s a popular surfing location, with many visiting because of how fun it is. You can ride the waves of life in your own way, and with the help of a counselor, it’s definitely possible. 

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Zoe Paulson

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW,LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Hi there! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I earned my Master of Social Welfare (MSW) degree from the University of California at Berkeley in 2004. I've worked in many different settings with individuals, couples, and families who have a variety of issues that include, but that are not limited to, relationship and family conflicts, parent/child challenges, adjustment to phases of life, depression, stress, and grief. My experience as a clinician has led me to focus on working with and helping my clients with a tailored approach that combines cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and strengths-based therapy models. I strive on bringing you to a point of becoming confident in your abilities to move forward by minimizing fear and leading you to tangible and realistic goals and outcomes. I offer a non-judgmental, empathic, and mindful approach with my clients who are willing to accept the challenges that come with participating in counseling and have the desire to work towards and make positive changes. Whether your challenges are recent or longstanding, whether you are wanting to improve your mood, relationships, or the ability to cope with complicated emotions, I am confident I can offer a perspective and additional support that allows you to gain the momentum you are seeking in order to move forward and start healing. I’d be happy to answer any questions you may have. You can message me anytime through BetterHelp. I usually check messages twice each day, Mondays through Fridays. I offer messaging, live chat, video and phone sessions with limited availability in the evenings. At this time, I am not able to provide services on the weekends. What you see in my calendar may not reflect my only availability so always check with me through a message first! I look forward to working together!

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Dr. Robin Avery

Offering therapy in CA
License: Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

A mixture of hope and skepticism often accompanies seeing a new therapist. You wonder if this therapist can help bring an end to your suffering and confusion. You ask yourself if you will get the clarity you are searching for, closure to the grief you are experiencing, or find purpose and meaning in the life you are living. I bring to your sessions a blending of training in evidenced-based psychotherapy with over 30 Years of combined professional and personal experience to help you through your journey of self-discovery and healing. I provide the emotional support needed as you walk through the barriers of fear that prevent you from exploring your inner world and living a more liberated, balanced life. I walk alongside you in a caring, empathic therapist, as you uncover your seeds of suffering. I teach you skills to help you cope with what cannot be changed, and offer new ways to perceive and experience yourself and your reality that can be a wellspring of growth, positivity, and personal life enhancement. Treating the whole person, I place value on the lessons learned from all of life’s experiences. In addition to psychology, my wisdom draws from the gifts of the natural world, the cultural and performing arts, mindfulness, and my belief in empowering people to find their own unique gifts, talents, and wisdom to create more meaningful connections and purposeful living. I specialize in individual psychotherapy working with adults across the adult lifespan. Whether you are struggling with stress-related issues at home, work, or with relationships in general, feelings of loss and grief, caregiver fatigue, or feelings related to change and life-transitions, I utilize evidenced based approaches including CBT, ACT, mindfulness, and insight-oriented psychotherapies to help you increase self awareness, experience your own inner wisdom and clarity, and create a foundation for successful coping and handling life's uncertainties, healing, and greater life satisfaction.

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David Gottlieb

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,MFT,PPS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemADHD
30 years of experience

Change can be difficult, and you are taking an important step by reaching out for support. I am going to work with you to develop a path toward positive change. Our time together will honor who you are while targeting the challenging areas of your life. I will treat you with respect, warmth and compassion as we take on your negative thoughts, emotions, and behaviors without stigmatizing labels to make you feel better. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in Northern California with 30 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of problem areas including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting problems, career transitions, acting out behaviors, ADHD as well as learning and developmental disabilities. My therapeutic approach intentionally combines client-centered, relationship and communication-based, solution-skill based, cognitive-behavioral, and family systems counseling. As I get to know you, we will map out together a specific plan of treatment that fits who you are, what you want to accomplish, and how best to get there. I look forward to connecting with you.

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Rachel Dock

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsGriefDepression
10 years of experience

My qualifications include a completed master’s degree in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. Licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist with the Board of Behavioral Sciences. I specialize in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, drug addiction, and crisis. My professional experience includes working as a Social Services Coordinator at a crisis stabilization unit for the past 4 years. Acquired experience includes crisis stabilization, risk assessment, intensive community linkage coordination, and therapeutic intervention for an adult and youth population. I also gained a year experience through an agency focused on foster youth and youth with a significant trauma history. My counseling style is empathic, warm, non-judgmental and genuine. I utilize CBT, Client-Centered, and Objects Relations Therapy techniques. I am confident that my education, training, and experience will aid in providing you with the best therapeutic care possible. Thank you for your time.

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Ashley Goodey

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in California with 10 years experience working with grief and loss. I have worked with many families who have experienced a peaceful acceptance of death and those that felt it was simply too soon. My bereavement experience allows those experience death and dying to identify that stages are not linear and do not occur in one particular order. My counseling techniques include cognitive behavior therapy, where I assist families and individuals with identifying their thoughts, feelings and behaviors in any given situation. I'm compassionate and display patience. My goal is to have a dialog and atmosphere that meets you were you are at in this journey of life and healing. The goal is to obtain a balance of your ultimate survival and strength. It takes courage to seek support and move towards healing. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. My areas of focus include, but are not limited to: grief counseling, depression, relationship issues , caregiver stress and family discord.

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Ronald Coleman

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) since 2016 in California. I spent twenty-eight years in the army (active and reserve) retiring as a lieutenant colonel. I began Christian counseling in 2002 continuing through 2006. I counseled individuals and couples regarding various relational and adjustment issues. I also counseled individuals regarding self-esteem, and substance abuse. Theoretical approaches most commonly utilized consisted of cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, and family systems models. I attended a marriage and family therapy academic program at Western Seminary completing all requirements in 2008. I also obtained an addiction studies certificate from the institution. I worked in residential treatment facilities from 2005-2011. In this capacity crisis were handled though behavioral interventions that included crises intervention counseling and referral to appropriate internal/external resources. Additionally, assessments were conducted to determine if clients in crisis needed a higher level of care. Coordinated all client work parties. Monitored client suicide/homicide ideation in individual and group counseling sessions. During this time I also worked with inmates housed in residential treatment both inside and outside of treatment settings. In these settings the 12 Step model for treatment was utilized. From 2013 through 2017 I worked with the homeless population providing intensive case management. Presently I work with families with autistic children utilizing applied behavior analysis (ABA) as the treatment modality. With this wide breath of experience I believe I can continue to be of great assistance to individuals in needed of counseling services.

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This is Jacqueline Khella 's avatar and link to their profile

Jacqueline Khella

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, anxiety, depression and more. 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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Marcelle Turner

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
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, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.

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Maribel Contreras

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. 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.

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Nicole Widman

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Nicole Widman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that specializes in in therapy for men and women with a faith-background who may be struggling with: Acceptance/Belonging Addiction Anxiety Broken Family Relationships Church Hurt Depression Future Plans/Purpose Self-Esteem/Identity Suicidal Ideation Trauma I am passionate about integrating therapy with the Christian faith, guiding clients in learning how to hear from God and experience inner healing through the leading of the Holy Spirit. I am deeply devoted to counseling those that long to burn with passion for Jesus but cannot break free from the darkness of their past.

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How to find counseling in Pacifica

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica, 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 94044 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica, 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.

Pacifica has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Pacifica.

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

94044

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