When it comes to finding a therapist, Chula Vista, CA might seem like an option. Mental health services are typically available in a city, especially one located so near San Diego. However, it’s not always easy to find a therapist, even in a populated area. Mental health concerns can be very different, and manifest differently depending on the individual. There are a number of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, and what is effective for one mental illness may not work as well with another. The type of therapy you need may not be available in your area. Not to mention the importance of working with a therapist with whom you build a good rapport and who makes you feel comfortable.
Online therapy with a platform like BetterHelp can make truly person-centered therapy possible. BetterHelp offers over 30,000 practitioners in the mental health field, including licensed professional clinical counselors, social workers, psychologists, and family therapists. These professionals specialize in the treatment of a variety of occurring mental illnesses from obsessive compulsive disorder to borderline personality disorder, and any number of co-occurring disorders in between.
BetterHelp is also a convenient option for many who have difficulty making it to in-person appointments. With video chat, phone, and text messaging options, you can talk with your therapist anywhere, even from residential treatment settings. Busy professionals, students, and members of families experiencing mental health challenges can schedule sessions anywhere and anytime that works for them.
It can sometimes feel overwhelming to take that first step on your mental health journey. BetterHelp offers a simple, easy, and timely way to get started talking to a licensed mental health professional. If you have been thinking about seeking therapy for any reason, contact BetterHelp to get matched with the right therapist to meet your needs.
Maria Rios
Hello! I am a licensed psychotherapist in California (LMFT) and I have been in practice since 2012. Before graduating with my Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, I was a Montessori teacher in Cambridge, MA and San Diego, CA for 9 years and I enjoy working with children and parents who seek guidance in parenting skills and are in need of an emotional support. As a psychotherapist, I have worked in residential and outpatient settings, conducting individual and group therapy, as well as proving care to clients in office and online. The heart and passion of my work is to provide you with an uninterrupted time and space for you to process and explore your thoughts and feelings, understand your fears and your wishes, and reflect on different events in your life. I focus on bringing more clarity, awareness, peace, and harmony and on helping you move forward with grace, embracing yourself and your goals. My approach is person-centered which means that my work is about meeting you where you are on your journey and supporting you in feeling your best self. I am authentic in my style and I share an honest perspective. I am also a hope-based therapist and I view challenges as stepping stones to meeting your desired goals while trusting yourself to lean on the resilience you already possess and to feel encouraged to create healthy core beliefs. I believe that you have all the inner knowledge and the power to uncover the strength you need to make the changes you feel are right for you and I will provide guidance in ways that resonates with you. In cases when it’s relationship issues, I will walk you through analyzing and understanding the dynamics and the hierarchies of the relational systems. We will focus on heathy boundaries, self-worth, and personal growth. I use some of the leading psychological modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Psychodynamic approach. I look forward to working with you! Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (1-800-273-TALK) Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741-741
Carrie Bican
Welcome! I believe "Hardships are a detour not a dead end" so I thank you for having the strength to reach out. I started working with most in need populations while attending California Lutheran University, where I graduated with a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marital and Family Therapy. I am currently a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California. Working as a school based-counselor in ventura county school system and primary clinician in psychiatric, I have experienced the complexities of family relationships, stress and anxiety, grief and loss, phase of life changes, work related issues, motivation, self-esteem, adjustment disorders and of course persistent diagnosis as well such as Depression. I am compassionate for how we experience the world as an individual and in the collective. I am a person-centered therapist who uses an integrated approach to working with individuals. This allows for a more personal experience instead of the same set curriculum for all. Even though I pull knowledge from all theories and practices, I use Family Systems Theory, Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Theory and Mindfulness practices often. I can also help you strengthen coping skills, life skills, independent living skills and awareness or insight skills. I appreciate Carl Jung's perspective that there is not a linear path in life or in psychology. We often need to look at life and self from different angles and with many different strategies. I honor your consideration of having me as part of your life and space. I look forward to working with you!
Raquel Buchanan
Hello and Welcome! My name is Raquel Buchanan and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT #118976) and doctoral candidate who has dedicated my practice to assisting both victims and offenders of violence, abuse, and trauma. I am comfortable working in high stress situations including those with severe mental health issues, and chronic conflict. I am a certified domestic violence counselor and have worked with county probation providing therapy to men and women who use violence or abuse in their intimate relationships, and provide individual counseling to people who want to stop their use of violence. I specialize in treating self-esteem issues related to interpersonal trauma focusing on the impact that childhood abuse or neglect has on emotional and mental health. I am a self-esteem therapist who focuses on building coping skills, finding your hidden strengths and talents, and getting you out of negative thought patterns that keep you stuck. I have assisted many of my clients overcome issues like addiction, relationship conflict, depression, and anxiety related disorders. The best compliment I have ever received was that my therapeutic approach “was like talking to a friend.” The therapy I provide is intensive in nature using both the text and video feature to assist you during your therapeutic process. You should expect to have regular communication with me including weekly sessions and check ins. Your care is important to me, I look forward to working with you.
Dr. Judy Kelly
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 10 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, anger management, relationship issues, parenting problems, trauma, abuse and grief. My professional and life experience have given me the ability to understand your needs while helping you prioritize and process the challenges you are facing. As an experienced professional, I will meet you wherever you may be in life and offer a comprehensive, individualized approach to treatment. I will help you identify and accomplish your own individual goals that move you toward recovery. My therapy approach draws on your already present strengths and skills to create a method of treatment that expands upon your current positive attributes so that they may better serve you in the future. I will help you learn new coping skills and behaviors that will benefit your current situation. I will provide guidance, compassion, support and insight to help you tackle whatever you are facing and help you respond more clearly and effectively so you can be successful long after treatment. I look forward to working with you.
Sally Schoellkopf
Are you experiencing change and challenges in your life? Do you feel more tired, frustrated, anxious, disappointed, unheard or sad? You may be facing the struggles of being a parent, coping with grief, or having difficulties communicating with your partner or family member. Maybe you are just feeling overwhelmed, stuck, worried, less confident and disconnected from others. As a California-licensed Marriage, Family and Child Therapist with over 20 years of experience, I am here to help you find greater well-being, self-acceptance and resolve the issues that are preventing you from living the full and positive life that you deserve. In my private practice and other settings, including schools, hospice, bereavement and agency centers, I have counseled adults, children, adolescents, families and groups to help them gain self-awareness, new insights and create positive change. We will work together as I support you toward a life with balance, empowerment, and an increased sense of well-being. I am committed to providing a safe, supportive and empathic environment to create your purpose, develop healthier relationships and grow as an individual. Everyone is unique with their own inner strengths and capabilities. I use an eclectic approach that matches your individual needs and goals. I incorporate cognitive work, mindfulness, psychodynamic perspectives, relaxation techniques, family systems, solutions-focused therapy, and self-compassion to help you reach your goals. I look forward to meeting and taking this journey with you!
Tina Paxton
I am licensed in California with 12 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 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!
Shea Phinney
I am licensed in California with 23 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 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.
Melanie McKinney
Hello and welcome, so happy you reached out to make changes for the better in your life. My name is Melanie Mckinney and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in New Mexico. I was born and raised in New Mexico and received both my undergraduate degree in Psychology and graduate degree in Family and Consumer Sciences. I have been practicing as a therapist for the last 20 years. I take great pride in being able to form strong therapeutic relationships with my clients and make them safe and comfortable in sharing and making the most out of therapy. I have been privileged to work with clients in a private practice setting, community agencies and hospital settings. . My specialties include working with individuals that may be experiencing problems in their relationships, individuals contemplating a divorce or ending a relationship and women’s issues, such as miscarriage and parenting concerns. Using a client centered approach, meaning therapy is about you and your needs and wants. I will listen to you and bring understanding and compassion to the therapy process, allowing healing to begin. Together will find out the most goals you have for positive changes in your life. Using Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help you change the way you see and think about issues in your life. we will identify thought patterns that may be holding you back as well as providing strategies to live your life with joy and purpose and stay focused on the present moment. Specialties Stress, Anxiety Relationship issues Family conflicts Depression Coping with life changes Also experienced in: LGBT , Trauma and abuse , Grief ,
Rachel Zioulas
I am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, & depression. 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!
Yazmin Sanchez
I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Chula Vista
Finding the best therapist close by in Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista. 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 Chula Vista, 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista, elsewhere in San Diego, 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Chula Vista, 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 91902 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 Chula Vista counselor?
Before seeing your Chula Vista 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. Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista, 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.
Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista, 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista:
91902, 91908, 91909, 91910, 91911, 91912, 91913, 91914, 91915, 91921