Therapy can be a way to find new beginnings, whether you’ve experienced trauma or are interested in career counseling to find your dream job. A therapist can offer a wide range of tools to improve communication, change behavior, manage stress, and achieve personal goals. 

When it comes to finding a therapist, Chico, CA may offer more opportunities than surrounding rural areas, but finding the right therapist can be more complicated than simply reaching out to the nearest clinic. One reason for this is that within the field of psychotherapy, there are many evidence-based therapeutic approaches that target different treatment goals. For example, a therapist that specializes in issues related to eating disorders may not be the right match for someone experiencing delusional behaviors. Just like traditional medicine, psychology has specialization. What you need may not be available nearby. 

This is where online therapy can help. BetterHelp is a platform that offers access to North Valley counseling professionals who specialize in a variety of modalities and have experience working with diverse populations. Simply fill out an online questionnaire and BetterHelp will match you with a therapist that meets your individual needs. And because therapeutic success can depend on your ability to feel comfortable sharing during sessions, if you need to switch therapists at any time you can do so at no additional cost. 

If you live in the Chico, CA area and are interested in learning more about how online therapy can help, whether you’re dealing with conflict, are interested in recovery from addiction, or want to focus on self-discovery, check out the profiles below. These California-licensed professionals can get you started on your mental health and wellness journey. 

Psychologist Menachem Stulberger providing different types of therapy in Chico

Menachem Stulberger

Clinician
License Type(s): LMFT
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
12 years offering treatment

I am a marriage and family therapist with 9 years of experience counseling a wide range of clients. I have worked with clients on grief and loss, depression and anxiety as well as substance abuse concerns. I take a warm approach with clients and use a client centered approach to therapy. I have been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy and approach the sessions in a collaborative manner always working together with people I am working with. I respect that you took this step to seek out a listening ear and I look forward to working together with you on this journey. I was born in New York and as a young child my family moved out to Los Angeles and I have been here ever since. Growing up I was always fascinated by the field of psychology and when I was going for my Bachelors Degree I therefore choose to major in psychology. I attended Touro College Los Angeles for my Bachelors degree and then pursued my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy through Touro University Worldwide. When working with clients I take a warm and empathetic approach and really try to hear what the client is saying. Therapy can be very rewarding but it is often challenging to talk about the difficulties that we face. In session I strive to create a supportive and safe space where we can work together mindfully and without judgement to increase wellness. Thank you for taking the time to look over my profile. I look forward to working together!

Psychologist Janel Guinane providing different types of therapy in Chico

Janel Guinane

Clinician
License Type(s): LCSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

My career in the helping professions started in 1997 at a residential program in San Francisco working with adults with substance use issues and co-occurring mental health disorders. At this time, one did not need a degree in substance use counseling to work in this area and I was able to gain a great deal of experience. This launched a long road of determination to attain a Bachelor's degree in Social Work in 2008 and then a Master's in Social Work in 2010. Throughout my educational years and afterward, I worked with several different populations such as children, teens, TAY, former foster youth, homeless youth, adults with mental illness, homeless adults, and those arrested for alcohol and/or drug related offenses. I am currently a Program Manager of a Clinic that assesses individuals with mental health disorders for County treatment services as well as a homeless day respite center that connects unhoused persons with housing, food, healthcare, etc. My treatment approach is one that is Client-Centered, Strength's-Based, and Humanistic. I utilize Motivational Interviewing to gain knowledge into my Client's perspective and objectives. I believe that every person in an expert in their own life and that I act only as a guide and collaborator to help my clients reach their goals and enrich their lives. I have had experiences working with those with depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, eating disorders, PTSD, schizophrenia and various other conditions. My goal is to work with the client on their goals and not to give advice, which I find is less than effective. Many times individuals already know what they need and are seeking guidance, clarity, and the care of someone to be authentic and responsive to those needs.

Psychologist Denise Benitez providing different types of therapy in Chico

Denise Benitez

Clinician
License Type(s): LMFT,MA
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
10 years offering treatment

Hello I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California, working in the field of public service for over 21 years in various capacities as gang prevention counselor for adolescents, substance abuse assessor adults, and Mental Health Clinician. Received my undergraduate education from California State University of Los Angeles and master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from National University. I have extensive experience counseling at non-profit and private practice treatment facilities, school setting and In-Home therapy services. My focus ranges from family systems, domestic violence/trauma, couples therapy/relationship issues, to ethnic minority mental health and LGBTQ clients. I enjoy helping others promote change from within. believe in creating a space where we can have difficult conversations, and work towards resolving issues and collaborate on treatment plans that are tailored to your personal needs and experiences. It takes a lot of courage and motivation to reach out, look forward to supporting you along the way.

Psychologist Michele Lando providing different types of therapy in Chico

Michele Lando

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: LGBTGriefSelf esteemCompassion fatigueADHD
13 years offering treatment

Hello. I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional therapeutic work experience. In my private practice in Northern California, I provide therapy and professional consultation. I am 2e (Twice Exceptional), Neurodivergent & LGBTQIA affirming. My training and specialization center on trauma-informed integrative therapy. Certification and training including mindful CBT, Brain-spotting & Trauma Informed Yoga Therapy, PSI Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Solution Focused Narrative therapy, & Motivational Interviewing. Additional areas of competency include working with Neurodivergent/Autistic/ADHD/2e (Twice Exceptional) clients. Interventions utilized include mindfulness, CBT/DBT/ACT, EFT attachment therapy, grief & loss, motivation, self esteem & confidence, & managing compassion fatigue. Relational, attachment & somatic therapies such as Brain-spotting help us to heal our nervous systems and grow resilience. Identifying strengths and navigating challenges together through narrative and family systems therapy builds skills to form more secure attachments and improve relationships. When we shift our focus toward resilience, we set ourselves up for growth.

Psychologist Naomi Jimenez providing different types of therapy in Chico

Naomi Jimenez

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementSelf esteem
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, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Faith Mitchell providing different types of therapy in Chico

Faith Mitchell

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
30 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

Psychologist Ingrid Vicencio providing different types of therapy in Chico

Ingrid Vicencio

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepression
7 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & eating disorders. 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.

Psychologist Gregory Pelczar providing different types of therapy in Chico

Gregory Pelczar

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: GriefParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
16 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Dominic Valdes providing different types of therapy in Chico

Dominic Valdes

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
17 years offering treatment

I am a dedicated Therapist with 17 years of experience, passionate about providing a warm, genuine, and empathetic approach to individual and couple's therapy. As a person of color and a gay man, I am deeply committed to creating a safe and inclusive space for all, especially for POC, the LGBTQ+ community/gay men. My areas of expertise include couple's therapy, working through infidelity, betrayal trauma, sex and porn addiction, EMDR/trauma, and perfectionism. I am here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery, and I look forward to being part of your path to wellness.

Psychologist Kimberly "Kim" Woolley providing different types of therapy in Chico

Kimberly "Kim" Woolley

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepression
24 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with over 20 years of professional experience in the mental health field. I have worked in Medical Social Work helping individuals and families with sudden loss, injury, and chronic illness. I have worked with people and communities impacted by disasters. My expertise includes helping clients manage stress, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, depression, abuse, and career difficulties. I also have significant experience working with individuals in high-stress professions, including first responders, law enforcement, and veterans. I believe you are the expert of your own story, and together, we can identify the strengths that will help you overcome life’s challenges. Taking the first step toward therapy is a powerful choice, and I am here to support you every step of the way.

Find a therapist serving clients in California

What types of therapists are available to clients in Chico?

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Chico that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), therapeutic talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.

Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform

Mental health therapists in Chico available through BetterHelp are accredited as psychologists to help individuals and couples. Chico therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Chico therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Chico region and in the state of California.

How can a therapist help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want?

Therapists in Chico can help 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 therapist in Chico may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 

Is it better to find a mental health counselor or therapist in Chico offering online therapy or in person?

Studies show online therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling. Online therapy with licensed counselors is often more affordable, with BetterHelp pricing ranging from $65-$100 weekly, while in person therapy can cost up to $200 per session.

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