This is Monika Broecker's avatar and link to their profile

Monika Broecker

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, MS, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesCoaching
13 years of experience

Do you feel stressed, anxious, or depressed? Do have difficulties in relationships? Whatever it is that you are struggling with, I can work with you and help your find inner peace. The Vietnamese Buddhist Monk and teacher of Mindfulness, Thich Nhat Hanh, says, if we are anxious, we are living in the future; if we are depressed, we are living in the past. If we live in the present, we can feel peace. If we feel calm and relaxed in the here and now, we can also become more thoughtful and optimistic about the future. We can start building this future with ever step we take and thus make progress immediately. I am a Solution-Focused and Somatic Psychotherapist. I trained at the legendary Mental Research Institute in Palo Alto and in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy with the founders of the approach. I graduated with a Masters degree in Somatic Psychology from California Institute of Integral Studies. I am certified in Analytic Somatic Therapy. Analytic Somatic Therapy is a further development of Bioenergetic Analysis and includes cutting-edge research in trauma and brain research. I am also certified in Systemic Therapy. I look forward to working with you.

This is Deborah  Sterling's avatar and link to their profile

Deborah Sterling

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionADHD
3 years of experience

My name is Deborah Sterling and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I graduated from California State University, San Bernardino with a Master's Degree in Social Work with an emphasis on child welfare. I worked over 20 years with children and families involved in the foster care system. I also have experience working with teens and adults in a therapeutic setting. I practice supportive therapy influenced by Cognitive Behavioral Theory. I utilize various modalities including traditional talk therapy. I have a broad range of experience in knowledge including but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Child Development, Adolescents, Family Therapy, and Individual Therapy.

This is Veronica Dover Hoffman's avatar and link to their profile

Veronica Dover Hoffman

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
27 years of experience

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 25 years of experience. I love working together with clients to achieve their goals. My approach is warm, welcoming and affirming with a client centered perspective. I have experience with a wide range of issues including partner relational issues, parenting, anxiety and depression, coping with life changes, handling stress (both personal and professional) and many more. I have experience working with client of all ages,. I’m certified in Parent Child Interaction Therapy which focuses on work with both parent and child to better cope with severe behavioral disorders in young children (ages 2 to 7) and I also have a certificate in aging as well. I have worked with couples, individuals, families, and children. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy to assist clients in understanding how their thoughts and feelings are influencing their behavioral choices. I also focus on life stages and development with a focus on helping you better understand your current situation in the context of both your individual life course and the common life stages and developmental tasks we all pass through as we go through life. I know that coming to therapy can make you feel incredibly vulnerable. My approach is to help you become comfortable and create a safe space where you can use the courage that it took for you to reach out to spur you on towards the positive change you are seeking. I’m really looking forward to working with you.

This is Henry Ostendorf 's avatar and link to their profile

Henry Ostendorf

Offering therapy in CA
License: LPCC
LGBTGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
20 years of experience

I am Henry William Ostendorf. My gender pronouns are He/Him/His. I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in San Francisco, California with over twenty years of experience counseling others to better cope with psychological and social distress. I'm a helper by nature. I consider myself to be respectful, kind, empathetic and resourceful. I limit my practice to male-identified clients. Cisgender and Transgender males of any sexual orientation. Please note my schedule is often more open than just the slots shown. If you wish a specific day or time just ask. I will book you anytime if my schedule (and life) allow. Unfortunately the platform sometimes makes an error and a female subscriber will be matched with me. If you notice this has happened it is easily rectified by clicking on the "change counselor " link where you will see other available counselors to choose from. I practice Client Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy sometimes known as CBT. This type of counseling has been clinically proven to provide positive therapeutic outcomes. With CBT you may feel better, quicker, and with less financial investment than from other types of talk therapy. There is also evidence that CBT may be as effective as medication in treating anxiety and depression problems, Psychotherapy is used to facilitate optimal adjustment, either to situations of ongoing stress, such as chronic mental or physical illness or in acutely stressful situations as, for example, following the death of a spouse or loved pet. Such supportive therapy may consist of a number of regular weekly contacts. These sessions may be frequent and brief, or more structured up to 30-45 minutes over a period of time chosen by the participant. It is my sincere goal is to assist you to become self-sufficient and independent as possible. Our work starts with our identification of your goals, examining and understanding the barriers you face (which may be physical, social and/or psychological) and developing a realistic plan to move forward. This often requires changing old patterns of behavior that no longer works for you and reevaluation of our plan as new information comes forward. An action-oriented focus does not, however, preclude us from taking the smallest of steps -- especially as we begin our work together. Psychotherapy involves the use of many and varied psychological techniques including: • Empathy • Sympathetic Listening • Confiding Relationship • Ventilation and Expression of Emotional Material • Encouragement • Opportunities for Corrections • Explanation and Education • Appropriate Reassurance • Guidance • Practical Help • Behavior Modification I also specialize in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling and Pet Loss Grief. Vocational rehabilitation is a process which enables persons with functional, psychological, developmental, cognitive and emotional impairments or health conditions to overcome barriers to accessing, maintaining or returning to employment or other useful occupation. As a Senior Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with the California Department of Rehabilitation I've assisted over 800 disabled job seekers on their path to employment. My clients have included those with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, alcohol and other drug issues, traumatic brain injury, autism spectrum disorders, learning disorders, carpal tunnel and other repetitive strain disorders, and developmental issues. Many of my clients have come from the LGBT+ community. For over two years I've facilitated a monthly pet loss support group for the Peninsula Humane Society in Burlingame, CA. Loss of a pet is disenfranchised grief. Family, friends and coworkers often don't understand the depth of loss experienced when a pet dies. The inability for others to hear and understand one's grief can prolong or stunt the healing process. I understand and work to provide space to ventilate this sorrow and express the deep love one has for their lost friend.

This is Claudia Young's avatar and link to their profile

Claudia Young

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Northern California with over 14 years experience in the mental health field. I obtained a Master's Degree from California State University, Chico. My nature is to offer an empathic attuned presence. I have an energetic and dynamic personality. My therapy style is non judgemental, energetic and warm. My focus for all clients is to provide a safe , inviting place to hold space. My priority is to meet each client where they are, encourage and support them in guiding their treatment. My hope is to be the place where a client can reflect, process and proceed in being their best selves, meeting their potential, finding peace, fulfillment and satisfaction in life. I also priotize providing a trauma informed approach. I have worked with clients of varying backgrounds, cultures and ethnicities. I have training in play therapy with very young children, as well as training in treating depression and anxiety, trauma focused cognitive behavior therapy. I also have obtained EMDR training. I have worked with families, children, couples and individuals who have experienced various concerns, including anxiety, depression, low motivation, adjustment issues, life changes and stressors, relationship issues, divorce, conflict and career changes. I look forward to working with you.

This is John Sulmeyer's avatar and link to their profile

John Sulmeyer

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist with over 30 years of experience helping clients of all ages address a wide range of issues, such as depression, anxiety, stress, family conflicts, parenting issues, intimacy and relationship struggles, low self-esteem and self-confidence, life transitions and personal growth. My style as a therapist is both eclectic and dynamic, and I am committed to providing an environment that is safe, comfortable and free of judgment or labeling. It takes a great deal of courage to address one's own struggles in order to achieve a more fulfilling and happier life, and I am committed to supporting and empowering my clients in that endeavor.

This is Glenn Jacob-Oviatt's avatar and link to their profile

Glenn Jacob-Oviatt

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
5 years of experience

My name is Glenn Jacob-Oviatt (he/his) and I am a Social Worker licensed in California. For the past five years, I worked at an adult mental health inpatient facility, organizing and leading groups focused on anxiety reduction, DBT skills, anger management, mindfulness, communication skills, and self-expression through art and writing. I specialize in working with adults who experience anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and challenges adjusting to stressful life events. I also have a passion for writing and narrative-focused therapy and utilize a person-centered approach to therapy with elements of mindfulness, CBT, DBT, and ACT. My goal as a therapist is to accompany you and nurture your growth as you develop insights, engage in practices to enhance your well-being, and challenge unhelpful thinking patterns.

This is Heather Fairfax's avatar and link to their profile

Heather Fairfax

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia and California with 7 years of professional counseling experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. As a faith-based counselor, I view therapy with a deep understanding of the spiritual aspects of life, which can be an integral part of your healing journey. My therapeutic approach is rooted in Solution-Focused Therapy, where we focus on identifying and building upon your strengths to create positive change. I believe in a client-centered approach, meaning that you are the expert of your own life, and I am here to provide a supportive and guiding role as we navigate through challenges together. One thing you'll notice about my counseling style is that I'm pretty laid back. I believe in creating a comfortable and non-judgmental environment where you can feel at ease to share your thoughts and emotions. Laughter can be a powerful tool in healing, so don't be surprised if you find me using humor to lighten the mood when appropriate. My primary goal is to foster a supportive, caring, and compassionate therapeutic relationship with you. I deeply value the trust you place in me, and I assure you that your well-being and growth are at the heart of our work together. Life can present us with various hurdles, and seeking help is a courageous step toward self-discovery and personal growth. Together, we will explore your challenges, set achievable goals, and work towards positive solutions that align with your values and aspirations. I sincerely hope that I can be a part of your journey. I am genuinely honored to walk beside you and provide the guidance and support you need to thrive.

This is Theresa Searles's avatar and link to their profile

Theresa Searles

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
7 years of experience

My goal is to work with my clients to increase self-empowerment and learn new tools to overcome life challenges. I enjoy getting to know my clients, then working together to create a reasonable treatment plan where my client can feel confident moving forward with changes in their life. I specialize in trauma informed mental health therapy, which I realize is at the forefront of most of our life problems. I am looking forward to offering compassion, validation, and encouragement to my clients. Change can be challenging but not impossible, especially with extra support. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy, hypnotherapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Play Therapy. I look forward to connecting with you and helping personalize a treatment plan that beats suites your needs.

This is Karissa Matthews's avatar and link to their profile

Karissa Matthews

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesCoachingCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

*I am currently only available for live chat and messaging services* I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, career difficulties, & executive and professional coaching. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find counseling in Del Mar

Finding the best therapist close by in Del Mar 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Del Mar. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Del Mar, 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. 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 to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Del Mar or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Del Mar area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy 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 Del Mar, elsewhere in San Diego, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

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

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Del Mar due to a higher cost of living. 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 Del Mar 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 BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

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

Therapists in Del Mar, 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. They 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, they 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

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

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Del Mar 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 lead by a therapist in Del Mar helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Del Mar 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.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

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 Del Mar therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

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

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy 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 Del Mar 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 lot of people in CA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 92014 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Del Mar counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. 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 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 therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Del Mar 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 through therapy 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Del Mar, 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.

Del Mar has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy 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?

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

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out 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 Del Mar.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Del Mar:

92014

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist