Finding the right therapist can be challenging. If you’re looking for a therapist in Berkeley, CA, or the San Francisco area, consider using a platform like BetterHelp. BetterHelp offers online therapy, so you can attend sessions from the comfort of your home at a time that works for you. Plus, you can change therapists anytime for no additional fee until you find the right fit.
Therapy can help you learn to manage the symptoms of mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, but a counselor can also help you through many challenging situations. Whether you’re looking for root causes of negative behaviors, questioning your ??sexual orientation, or starting to feel overwhelmed with grad school, working with a therapist can help you come to terms with your life choices and find balance.
BetterHelp therapists use a variety of therapeutic practices while creating a warm, supportive atmosphere where you can get the help you need. If you live in the East Bay area and are ready to start therapy, connect with a Berkeley-area therapist below to get started.
Dr. Karin Celosse
(NO PHONE OR VIDEO at this time - but we can discuss live chat as needed after we start therapy, and come up with a schedule that works for us both) One of the hardest steps to take can simply be to ask for help. Many individuals feel that this makes them weak, especially if they have been accustomed to being told that they need to be tough or “keep it in the family”. But the simple fact that you have reached out for help speaks volumes about not only your resilience but also your strength. It is very common to feel overwhelmed, confused, and lost in an emotional place that feels like it has no way out. But we can work as a team to help you rise above this feeling, to be able to see what is at the other side of the “hill”, and help you visualize a path that you can follow. My goal is to facilitate the process of helping individuals become aware of and make choices toward living what they perceive to be a more fulfilled life and helping them to identify and address any barriers (actual and perceived) they may face. My approach is client-centered and strengths-based – you are the expert on what you want and what you need. I can help you when you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or lost. My goal is to facilitate, gently challenge at times, and guide your journey to wellness by helping you to change the things that are no longer working for you. I am a licensed clinical psychologist, based in the Orange County Area of California, specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and the psychological effects of living with chronic medical conditions. I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with substance use disorders, have a history of trauma, including work-related trauma such as that experienced in first responders, firefighters, law enforcement, and military, as well as individuals struggling with severe and persistent mental illness, as well as mood disorders. Additionally, individuals who are working on reintegrating with their community and adjusting to life after a period of incarceration are always welcome and encouraged to seek assistance in this process and this is something I am experienced in facilitating. I utilize a range of treatment methodologies including Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Object-Relations, Existential, Humanistic, Person-Centered, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Strength-Based approaches in my work with adult clients, and can offer Psychological Testing and Evaluation as well. In terms of my therapy approach, I will always meet you with unconditional positive regard. My approach is always individualized and based on approaches that you are most comfortable with and can best benefit from. I provide a safe holding environment that includes empathetic listening, guidance, and support based on what your goals and objectives are. Together we can explore your cognitions, behaviors, and beliefs that seem to be standing in the way of what you want for yourself, to provide you insight on them, and to help you grow from them. Perhaps uniquely among clinicians who provide services in this setting, I have extensive experience working with individuals in the community mental health setting as well as in the forensic setting (state prison and probation), and with individuals struggling with substance abuse, severe and persistent mental illness, as well as homelessness. Some fun trivia (which also gives me a unique insight into trauma and health effects on mental health - prior to my work in the field of mental health, I was actually a medic and field training officer in the emergency medical services field for well over a decade, so I also have extensive experience in dealing with individuals who struggle with trauma especially as it relates to work. **Please be aware that I check into the platform on the five days I work online (weekdays). Please leave me a detailed message and understand that I will get back to you within 24 hours (during reasonable business hours). It is important you are aware of this not being an emergency service. If you are experiencing a psychiatric emergency, please call 911 or go to the closest emergency room. **
Jared Maloney
Hello and welcome. Allow me to share with you a little bit about my experience and how I approach therapy. I have five years of experience working as a therapist with teens, adults, couples and families. Helping people manage their thoughts and emotions in a healthy way that improves their experience in the world. I’ve worked with clients who were worried, anxious, grieving, feeling lost, sad, depressed, struggled with self worth, intrusive thoughts, addiction, relationships and anger management. I’ve also helped coach people on how to reach goals, find what direction they wanted to go in and create a deeper sense of meaning and purpose in their life. I’m always willing to find the style or technique that will be the most helpful for my clients but here are style I use the most: Client centered- letting you guide us to what you feel needs to be addressed and working on that together. Holistic - including all the parts that make you who you are, such as your thoughts, feelings, physical sensations, hopes, spirituality and relationships. Depth Psychology- explores what things mean for you, why you react to things the way you do, what is your unconscious may be saying to you. Psychosynthesis – working with all the parts of your personality healthy way, building personal recourses to improve your life. Solution focused – building self esteem by setting and achieving goals and knowing your self worth. CBT- becoming more aware of your thoughts and what you can do to change them. Some of the techniques I’ve incorporated in the past are journaling, art, guided meditations, dream analysis, mindfulness practices, somatic exercises (I don’t mean going to the gym, but that could be helpful) and role-play. My goal is to help you find your way through whatever it is you’re going through and to develop tools and skills that you can use for the rest of your life. If this sounds like something that would be helpful for you I look forward to hearing from you.
Elana Lesse
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!
Andrea Blatchley
I am licensed in California with almost 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Alejandra Guzman-Valencia
I am a strong believer in meeting individuals where they are at that is, validating and supporting their current stage of change while encouraging them to actively visualize the best version of themselves. Together we will come up with treatment goals and we will work towards that at your speed. The first couple of sessions involve rapport building in which you and I get to know each other and determine if the therapeutic alliance is a good fit. As sessions progress, I will be here to support and encourage you every step of the way while also respecting your right to self determination. I am Alejandra Guzman-Valencia, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in a variety of settings and with different populations such as hospitals, schools, outpatient health clinics and with individuals struggling with end of life issues, chronic diseases, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, personality disorders and grief amongst others. My practice helps individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, family changes, life circumstances, interpersonal relationship issues and more. Together we will implement therapeutic practices and interventions that best meet your needs.
Lynaia Freund
I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I am Certified in EMDR, a highly researched and, highly respected form of psychotherapy. I have advanced training in the use of "EMDR/Flash", an EMDR therapy technique that can help you to desensitize difficult or painful thoughts, emotions or experiences. I have helped many people recover from trauma, childhood abuse, cope with grief and loss, stress, panic and anxiety using my expertise in EMDR to help people unfreeze or get un-stuck so they can move forward enabling them make the changes they desire to improve their life. I can help you with issues of motivation, self esteem, and self confidence, as well. I also have extensive training and expertise plus many years of experience working with addiction recovery in both on a medical rehab unit and as a therapist in private practice. I spent 14 years as a Clinical Hospital Chaplain at a Major Trauma Center in Southern California. I also have extensive training and years of experience integrating spirituality and psychotherapy. I work with my clients to create an open, safe and compassionate environment where thoughts, feelings and challenges can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage! I understand that and I am proud of you for getting started! Good for you!
Amy Riesberg
I am licensed in Iowa and California. I have 9 years of professional work experience in mental health. In addition, I have extensive experience working in hospice and long term care. I have helped clients with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief and loss. I am certified in EMDR. 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. I am very laid back and easy to talk to. Please be aware that I do not write ESA (Emotional Support Animals) letters fpr clients.
Stephen Mardell
I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, 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.
Ari Carden
I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I also have experience working with 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 things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Juanita Equils
I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!
How to find a therapist for counseling in Berkeley
Finding the best therapist close by in Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley. 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 Berkeley, 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley, elsewhere in Alameda, 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Berkeley, 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 94708 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 Berkeley counselor?
Before seeing your Berkeley 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. Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley, 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.
Berkeley 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 Berkeley, 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 Berkeley 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- 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.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Berkeley:
94701, 94702, 94703, 94704, 94705, 94707, 94708, 94709, 94710, 94712, 94720