Behavior problems can be a handful when your child starts school and sometimes you don’t even notice that your child has a problem until they have been in school for a while. Many behavioral issues can be treated by one of the many psychiatrists or other mental health professionals in Arroyo Grande, California. 

Arroyo Grande also has quite a few awesome parks where you can take your little one to let out some of that excess energy. A few of these include Heritage Square Park, Hoosegow Park, and Centennial Park. Take your child for treatment for their behavioral issues and then visit some of these great places to play. 

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Melissa Herrera

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Arroyo Grande
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California (LCSW) and I have been working in the counseling field since 2010. I have experience working in outpatient and residential settings with individuals with a range of ages experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, and a wide range of challenges. I use a person-centered, and integrative approach with the individuals I serve. This means that I make consistent efforts to meet you "where you are at". I hope to support you in being a catalyst to progress through your unique process of self-discovery and self-identification. I utilize relationship building, experiential and narrative approaches, and solution-focused therapy. During sessions, we are a team, addressing challenges together to become free from judgment, criticism, and pain. I believe in creating a space where we can have difficult conversations, work on resolving challenges, and collaborate together to identify goals tailored to your personal needs and experiences. It takes a lot of courage and motivation to reach out for support. I am here for you and thank you for trusting me to support you on your team. I am available for unscheduled communication with subscribers Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm. I generally can respond at least once per morning and once per evening, sometimes more! You can also book a live session with me which can range in times throughout the week; please view "Schedule a session with your counselor" to schedule a time for us to live chat, video, or call. Please remember that BetterHelp (or sister site!) is not appropriate if you are in crisis or in immediate need of support. In crisis situations, please call 911 or local emergency services. You can also call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to talk to someone right away! I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Arthur Magana

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Arroyo Grande
Counselor License Type(s): Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
26 years of experience

My name is Dr. Art Magana, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in Sacramento California. I have been working in the field of mental-health for over thirty years and have been licensed since 2002. I believe I have a strong foundation in the field of psychology, benefiting from training at the University of California, Antioch University, and at the School of Professional Psychology in San Francisco. I have balanced this background with early doctoral work at The Institute for Integral studies in San Francisco as well as years of training and workshops which allow me to consider myself as a multi-modal therapist, drawing upon various schools of thought which inform my worldview and understanding of human nature. I have worked in the field of child protection, Early Child Development and Infant Toddler Mental Health, Foster Care and Adoption, inpatient psychiatric, as well as years as a social worker and a supervisor for social service programs. I have been on staff at numerous counseling centers over the years and worked with a broad range of clients and their presenting problems and needs. I have practiced at the Institute for Bi Polar Spectrum Disorders in Folsom California .This background has given me a unique experience and perspective to look at the whole person beyond the confines of the patient therapist interaction. My approach as a psychologist includes genuine respect for all my clients and a desire to help them. I try to hear beyond their words to take in the person's emotional reality , their strength, and their sense of trust and safety as they move forward. I feel that humor has an important place in the healing and growing process. The research backs me up. I am a father, a husband, a teacher and a Latino therapist. I'm comfortable working in conversational Spanish however my writing skills...well not so much. Thank you for taking a moment to tell you about myself. Now it's your turn! I hope we have the opportunity to work together.

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Kasimu-Richard Harley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Arroyo Grande
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT,Ed.D.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
27 years of experience

I am an American with African roots who grew up in Pennsylvania. My journey to become a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist in California is a composite of all the life experiences that I have had privilege of having. I am a husband, father, brother, uncle, and son who has served in the United States Marine Corps (USMC) during the Vietnam Era. I am a student of life and the opportunities it provides individuals to rise above adversity and trauma. For more than two decades I have helped individuals and groups address the intrinsic social and emotional barriers that hinder their ability to thrive. A core belief that I have is we are all born, ‘Awesome’ and oftentimes we encounter pivotal events in our lives that cause our personal and emotional growth to become stunted. I served as a mental health therapist in both outpatient and residential treatment facilities serving adolescents and adults with substance use and mental wellness issues. My work in educational settings focused on removing socio-emotional barriers that impeded student learning. In addition, I provided stress reduction and work-balance coaching to teachers and administrators. The treatment approach that I utilized is systemic and eclectic. Using cognitive therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness practices I can help individuals work through depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and loss, etc. Let us work together to empower you to “Walk in Your Awesomeness”.

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Sandra Terifaj

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Arroyo Grande
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepression
35 years of experience

Hello, I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 35 years of experience in private practice and the training/supervision of interns at various non profit agencies. I am committed in helping you find healing, resolution and growth by guiding you within a safe environment in accessing the emotional pain/obstacles that are holding you back from living the life you fully want to live. My approach is to work collaboratively with you by using interventions based on your needs, including Client-Centered, Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral.

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Christine Berberian

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Arroyo Grande
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGrief
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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. If you are thinking about making changes in your life I am here to help you and support you in that process.

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Ivana Tejeda

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Arroyo Grande
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
18 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Domonqe Walker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Arroyo Grande
Eating disordersSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with eating disorders, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jessica Hanson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Arroyo Grande
Counselor License Type(s): MSSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
10 years of experience

Hello and welcome! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe in a strength based approach to personal healing and growth. As a therapist, I respect the opportunity to work with individuals and families struggling with grief and loss by providing a safe place to share, learn and heal. I foster empathy and acceptance as patients and families address life changing diagnoses and care needs. With over ten years of experience providing support to individuals and caregivers struggling with dementia and mood related issues, I utilize an integrated approach including, but not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Psychotherapy. I seek to empower individuals and families with the knowledge and tools they need to promote dignity and wellness. Finally, my background in grief and loss counseling has also prepared me to address the unrecognized and often untreated issues associated with pet loss, specifically the complicated and overwhelming emotions associated with chronic and terminal care of a pet, related end of life issues, and the emotionally challenging process of pet surrender. Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. Your insight and willingness to seek support is the first step toward healing and growth. I wish you the best on your journey!

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Yeni Hercules

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Arroyo Grande
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionCoaching
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Elise Demerdjian

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Arroyo Grande
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in California with over 30 years of professional work experience. I have vast experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & depression. The modalities I primarily use to help people with depression and anxiety are evidence based. For example for clients dealing with depression, I believe integrating depression awareness and management through a behavioral activation approach that encourages involvement in various types of meaningful activities is very helpful in alleviating the symptoms. For anxiety, I believe cognitive behavioral techniques are helpful. I also use the modality of solution focused therapy where I help you find a solution to a particular mental health issue. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Arroyo Grande

Finding the best therapist close by in Arroyo Grande 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 with therapists in Arroyo Grande that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Arroyo Grande. 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 or are new to counseling in Arroyo Grande, 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Arroyo Grande 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 counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Arroyo Grande or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Arroyo Grande therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Arroyo Grande area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

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 Arroyo Grande, 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 therapists and mental health services

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Arroyo Grande therapist?

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 Arroyo Grande 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:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Arroyo Grande 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 therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Arroyo Grande online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Arroyo Grande, 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 in therapy. 

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

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

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

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

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. See below for examples.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Arroyo Grande?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Arroyo Grande 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 and therapists 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 Arroyo Grande 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 Arroyo Grande 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in CA, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 93421 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 in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Arroyo Grande counselor?

Before seeing your Arroyo Grande therapist, 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. Arroyo Grande therapists here 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 why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a 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 Arroyo Grande 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 Arroyo Grande 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.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist 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. 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 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 psychologist in Arroyo Grande, 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.

Arroyo Grande 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 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Arroyo Grande, California

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 Arroyo Grande 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 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.

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 Arroyo Grande.

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

93420, 93421

Popular cities near Arroyo Grande, CA

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