The City of Atascadero founded in 1913 by E. G. Lewis is on the Pacific Coast and in the California Central Valley. The name Atascadero, which just means a place of much water in Spanish, is a good way to describe the watery town, where almost two percent of the entire town is water. If you don’t like the beach, try downtown Atascadero, where there are movie theaters, wine bars, microbreweries, restaurants, and an art gallery. 

In fact, there is something for everyone to do in Atascadero. However, if you are not interested in things like you used to be, that may be a sign of depression and you should seek treatment from one of the many licensed mental health professionals in town. They are ready to help you right now. 

Psychologist Diane Shrock-Wang providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Diane Shrock-Wang

Clinician
License Type(s): LMFT
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years offering treatment

Well hello! My name is Diane Shrock-Wang, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in individual, couples, child, family, and group therapy. I maintain an active private practice in California. With over 30 years of experience as a marriage and family therapist and as a graduate of Azusa Pacific University specializing in marriage, family, and child therapy, I strive to serve various client issues. My areas of expertise are anxiety disorders, eating disorders, mood disorders, and emotional intelligence (EQ) development. In addition to being a seasoned therapist, I also provide training and presentations to groups, speaking on assorted topics, including stress management, recognizing and moving through shame, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and increasing emotional intelligence. I am an interactive and solution-focused therapist with a style that provides support and practical feedback so that you may effectively address and move through personal and professional life challenges. I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to your needs. With compassion, honesty, and understanding, I help you build on your strengths and support you in attaining the personal growth you desire in life. I look forward to working with you. Let's get started!

Psychologist Earl Liotti providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Earl Liotti

Clinician
License Type(s): LMFT
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
9 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Brenda Wicks providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Brenda Wicks

Clinician
License Type(s): MA, LMFT
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
23 years offering treatment

I am a License Marriage Family Therapist in California that has 20 years of experience working with children, adolescences, adults, and older adults in numerous mental health settings. I have worked with clients from a wide range of concerns like depression, anxiety, addiction, incarceration, pervasive developmental disabilities, anger issues, ADHD, crisis, environmental stressors, family and parental issues. to name a few. I also have 8 years of experience working with Victims of Violent Crimes assisting, guiding, and emotionally supporting clients navigate through traumatic issues/events. My counseling style is supportive, interactive, and warm. I believe as a therapist that every individual from different walks of life deserves to be treated with respect, dignity, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My counseling approach combines Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focus, Family Centered, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Humanistic. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I know counseling can be scary for some and it takes courage in taking the first steps in seeking assistance in improving, working through, processing concerns, traumatic events, issues, stressors, triggers, and symptoms experienced for a more fulfilling and happier life for positive life changes. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you through your journey in therapy.

Psychologist Janice Ruchlis providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Janice Ruchlis

Clinician
License Type(s): MS, MA MFT
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
30 years offering treatment

I want to work with you to help you explore trauma, disability and low self esteem and discover ways to heal and feel more positive going forward. My work is a mixture of psychodynamic, behavioral, spiritual and developmental. I have worked with people of all ages and nationalities and i really valuing bringing differences to the forfront and apprecisting them. I look forward to working with you

Psychologist Amanda Mills providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Amanda Mills

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteem
6 years offering treatment

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist experienced in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused and play therapy. I am a gender affirming therapist who uses a humanistic approach and empathy to provide a safe space free of shame or judgement for clients. Since 2014, I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in various settings including non-profit organizations and education settings. 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 and empower you in that journey.

Psychologist John David Del Castillo providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

John David Del Castillo

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
8 years offering treatment

Hey! I'm JD, a dedicated and compassionate therapist committed to helping you navigate life's challenges and achieve personal growth. With almost 10 years of experience in the field of mental health, I have honed my skills and developed a deep understanding of various therapeutic approaches to support my clients effectively. It begins and ends with trust and throughout our time together we'll be building towards that relationship thereby maximizing our time together. Throughout my career, first in the military, I've had the privilege of working with diverse populations, including individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and more. Now whether it's in private practice, community organizations, or clinical settings, I've encountered a wide range of mental health concerns, each presenting unique opportunities for growth and healing. I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from the University of Southern California (USC), specializing in Jungian psychology. Additionally, I am certified in both Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and the Gottman Method through the Gottman Love Institute. My academic journey at USC and beyond provided me with a comprehensive understanding of social work principles, psychoanalytic theories, and behavioral modification techniques. This specialized training has equipped me with a diverse toolkit to address the complex psychosocial needs of individuals across diverse populations. My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Psychodynamic Therapy, EMDR, and the Gottman. I believe in tailoring my approach to meet the individual needs and preferences of each client, recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to mental health challenges. Central to my practice is the cultivation of a safe and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly. I strive to foster a collaborative relationship built on trust, empathy, and mutual respect, guiding clients on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. I am passionate about helping clients tap into their innate resilience and strengths, empowering them to overcome obstacles and lead more fulfilling lives. By providing guidance, support, and evidence-based interventions, I aim to assist clients in developing coping strategies, improving self-awareness, enhancing interpersonal relationships, and fostering a greater sense of well-being. Whether you're struggling with overwhelming emotions, navigating life transitions, or seeking personal development, I am here to accompany you on your therapeutic journey. Together, we can work towards overcoming challenges, unlocking your full potential, and creating positive change that lasts.

Psychologist Aya Okumura providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Aya Okumura

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with over 20 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. *Please note that if you are in need of a counselor to write official documentation for disability, Social Security, FMLA, parole officers, courts of law, or employers, I do not offer this service to clients.

Psychologist Sharon Bowen providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Sharon Bowen

Clinician
License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has been in the field of social work for over 10 years. In my career, I have worked with families and children as an advocate, case manager, and therapist. I know that therapy can be a scary step but I am here to help in your journey. I am here to help no matter where you are in the therapeutic process - whether this is your first time or you've seen others in the past. We will work on this journey together and move forward at your pace. Therapy can bring out all sorts of feelings, but we will get through them as they arise. My goal is to provide a safe and open environment for you to feel free to address anything that is on your mind. I strive to be nonjudgmental, caring, and compassionate. I believe the therapeutic relationship requires trust on both your end and mine. I look forward to working with you!!

Psychologist Ana Fernandez providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Ana Fernandez

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

Psychologist AnneMarie Winic providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

AnneMarie Winic

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
24 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & 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. 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.

How to find a licensed therapist serving clients in Atascadero, California

Finding the best therapist close by in Atascadero can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area. You can get connected with a clinician 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 with therapists 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. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp

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 for therapists. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Atascadero region and in the state of California. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health professional working through their own in-person therapy practice in Atascadero or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A  may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Atascadero area offering therapy for:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use
  • Couples

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Atascadero, elsewhere in San Luis Obispo, or in the greater state of California. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about licensed therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Atascadero area can be found below:

How does the cost of an in-person therapist compare to BetterHelp?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Atascadero due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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:

  • With a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • With therapists: $100-300
  • With a clinician: $100

While many psychologists in Atascadero 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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).

Read more about this cost related question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

How are therapists on a Atascadero online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Atascadero psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

Read more about this license question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

How does BetterHelp online therapy work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Atascadero 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 for in person sessions.

Through BetterHelp, 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 helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage, and more. Get matched today.

Read more about this question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

What mental health issues can a therapist address?

BetterHelp's verified 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.

Atascadero therapists' specialties available through the BetterHelp platform

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 provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain.us, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.

Read more about this psychotherapist question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

Is BetterHelp right for me?

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.

Therapists 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 in Atascadero 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 therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in CA, therapists 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 93423 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists around or in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

Read more about this family question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Atascadero therapist?

Before seeing your therapist near you, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. therapists near you may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn how to best help and support you.

Read more about this first session question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

Should I find a Atascadero therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Atascadero 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 with a counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Read more about this question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

Is therapy worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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. An experienced clinician 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 therapist 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 licensed clinician in Atascadero, 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.

Counseling with an online Atascadero provider

Atascadero has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into trying it online, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change 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 treatment.

Do therapists judge you in therapy?

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 BetterHelp, the leading therapist platform serving the population of California

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 BetterHelp or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service 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.

  • Thehotline.org - National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
  • Suicidepreventionlifeline.org - National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
  • Crisistextline.org - Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  • Veteranscrisisline.net - Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
  • Thetrevorproject.org - Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386 
  • Samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline - SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
  • Nationaleatingdisorders.org/help-support/contact-helpline - National Eating Disorder Association Helpline :1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
  • Childhelphotline.org/resources-for-teens/ - Child Help Hotline:  Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
  • Fraternallaw.com/help-us-stop-hazing - National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293) 
  • Physiciansupportline.com - Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
  • Rainn.org - Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673

 

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Finding therapy in Atascadero can change your life. Expert therapy provides valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapist serving clients in your area, you can gain tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online counseling services. Seeking expert guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address emotional challenges effectively while gaining insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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