Selecting a mental health practitioner may be one of the most significant steps you take on your journey to wellness and self-betterment. Whether you need help managing a mental health condition, achieve personal goals, or need a new perspective to help solve issues in your life, the right therapist can likely help. A mental health professional can also help with relationship or family concerns. Armed with the right tools, a therapist can help you address parenting problems, respect kids’ needs, and build a peaceful and happy home. 

A therapist might use several treatment approaches to help you address your concerns. Many therapists prefer a team approach, where you work collaboratively to find solutions and directions for change. The therapist might be a source of encouragement and support, or they might be more directive and give you instructions or exercises to perform. The exact therapeutic approach will depend on your needs and the therapist’s area of specialization. 

When considering which practitioner is right for you, it’s often helpful to think about whether their specialty suits your needs. For example, if you need help managing the symptoms of depression, a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in eating disorders may not be the best fit for you. Instead, you’ll likely want to search for a practitioner with extensive experience treating depression or helping their clients manage mood disorders. 

If you’re ready to begin your journey with a therapist, Foster City, CA, has plenty of professionals available to help you achieve your ultimate goal for therapy. If practitioners in Foster City don’t meet your needs, you could also consider heading south to Silicon Valley or north to San Francisco. Therapists practice in various settings throughout the entire Bay Area, making it likely you can find a professional who suits your needs. You might also want to consider online therapy, which lets you bypass travel completely and attend sessions from home or another comfortable location. 

The practitioners listed below serve Foster City and nearby communities. Consider looking at their profiles to determine whether their expertise meets your needs. You can also learn about their qualifications and read reviews from past clients to get a sense of their therapeutic approach. 

This is Frank Pavone's avatar and link to their profile

Frank Pavone

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Foster City
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger management
17 years of experience

Hello here is summary of my experience and approach to therapeutic counseling; My experience as a clinical social worker for over 25 years includes working in the prevention and treatment of family violence, victim advocacy for survivors of sexual assault and to assist individuals experiencing depression, loss and grief. I have assisted individuals and families struggling with communication and conflict issues and provided counseling for youth as part of court ordered diversion related to behavior problems in school and at home, truancy, substance abuse, adjustment problems divorce and family separations. My approach to counseling is client centered and solution focused in a collaborative approach to assisting clients in identifying key concerns in an atmosphere based in mutual respect. I take a holistic approach to therapy taking in account environmental, cultural and familial influences identifying client strengths and motivation for change. Treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral, Rational Emotive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy with focus in identifying and changing negative thinking patterns, incorporating techniques such as mindfulness and meditation. Thank you for taking the time to review my bio and commend you for making the first step in seeking help. I am comfortable using either video teleconferencing ,telephone, live chat or messaging in conducting therapy sessions depending on your preference. I look forward to hearing from you!

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This is Cynthia Cunningham's avatar and link to their profile

Cynthia Cunningham

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Foster City
Counselor License Type(s): M.S. ,LMFT,Hypnotist
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteem
27 years of experience

I have been a licensed marriage family therapist in California for over 27 years. I am what some people would call a "wounded healer", because I have been sober 35 years. I am also in recovery from co-dependency and love addiction. I believe anyone can change their life for the better, because I have changed mine for the better. If you love someone who does not love you back, I can help you STOP loving them and help you to start loving yourself. If you cannot say no, I can teach you how to say NO in a kind way and mean it. In addition to the areas mentioned above, I can also help you to over come anxiety/panic and depression. I use cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy to help you to make the changes you want to make in your life. You are always in control of your therapy and you decide I have been in the client's chair, so I know first hand that it takes courage to begin the journey to a better life. You do not have to journey alone ; I will be your companion. All journeys begin with the first step. Take that first step today. I would be honored to work with you.

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This is Amy Hatcher's avatar and link to their profile

Amy Hatcher

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Foster City
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCompassion fatigue
12 years of experience

Hello and welcome! My name is Amy Hatcher, and I am a military veteran, career firefighter/EMT, licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), and soon to be Doctor of Psychology (PsyD). But don't let the fancy titles and acronyms daunt you! That all just means by education, training, experience, and a genuine desire to help people, I will do my best to be the clinician you need. My approach to therapy is both integrative and holistic, where all aspects of the person – physical, mental, emotional, and behavioral - are addressed. I have worked in a multitude of different therapeutic settings, including active duty, veteran, and first responder counseling services, community mental health treatment centers serving individuals, couples, families, and children, residential recovery programs, and as a member of the psychiatric emergency response team (PERT). Seeking therapy is a big step and ensuring a good fit with your therapist is a major component. My goal is to establish a solid relationship, meet you where you are, figure out where you want to be, and work together to help you get there. I look forward to working with you! Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (1-800-273-TALK) Crisis Text Line: Text TALK to 741-741

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This is Jill Dutra's avatar and link to their profile

Jill Dutra

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Foster City
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California with several years of professional work experience. I have worked for a community counseling center and for the Juvenile Justice Mental Health department focusing on adolescents and their families dealing with drug and alcohol abuse and family systems. I also have experience in private practice treating individuals and couples along with running motivational women's groups. My focus is helping clients work through personal obstacles while reaching for their individual goals. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My therapy approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral, Dialectical Behavior and different variations of Humanistic Therapy. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling, happy life and to sign up for therapy. If you are ready to take that next step to start therapy, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Shuwen (Sylvia) Huang's avatar and link to their profile

Shuwen (Sylvia) Huang

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Foster City
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 15 years of professional work experience in offering client centered approaches to address issues including depression, anxiety, parenting issues, coping with illness, grief, and trauma. I have experience working in trauma hospital acute care and emergency department settings. I am also a registered nurse dedicated in providing individualized patient care through effective education and counseling. My experience has taught me that one of the most important aspect of counseling is the connection and comfort you feel with the person you choose to share your personal struggles. I believe we can all grow through challenging experiences by increasing our self-awareness. We all possess resilience and strength to achieve healing and personal growth. Sometimes another person, one who isn't in our immediate circle, can offer a perspective or additional support, that give us insights on a difficult situation when we feel stuck. It would be my privilege to be that person for you. We all want to be able to share our personal truths and be accepted and understood. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming what you are going through. I look forward to tailoring my approach to meet your specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I practice through a lens of cultural humility and strive to create a welcoming therapeutic space. My hope is for clients to leave session feeling more grounded than when they arrived. I am here to support you in that process of becoming the best version of yourself.

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This is Kelly Kratzer's avatar and link to their profile

Kelly Kratzer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Foster City
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues (including parenting neurodivergent children), motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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.

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This is Jennifer Kemp's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Kemp

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Foster City
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 14 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 believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Life is short and should be happy. We all have challenges. My treatment approach is to have a sense of humor and collaborate with the client. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy are two of my favorites. We all have the ability to choose how we will think and respond to the hurdles in life. My approach is to help client's develop strategies that are customized for them. I want each client to feel like there is a game plan and they can make progress.

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This is Ana Vasquez's avatar and link to their profile

Ana Vasquez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Foster City
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
10 years of experience

I’m a licensed clinical therapist in California with a decade of experience helping people navigate life’s challenges. Whether you’re struggling with stress, anxiety, family issues, trauma, grief, or anything else, I’m here to listen, understand, and provide support. I believe in creating a safe and judgment-free space where you can share your thoughts and feelings openly. Together, we can work towards a happier and more fulfilling life. Taking that first step can be tough, but know that you’re not alone. I’m here to guide you through the journey.

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This is Jacqulyn Zacharie's avatar and link to their profile

Jacqulyn Zacharie

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Foster City
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Washington with multiple years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.

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

Heather Custodio

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Foster City
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a licensed professional in California with three years of experience. My expertise includes helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and career difficulties. I also specialize in supporting individuals through life transitions. My approach focuses on creating an open, safe space where clients can share their thoughts and feelings freely, without fear of judgment. Seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and I am here to support and empower you as you take those first steps toward meaningful change.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Foster City

Finding the best therapist close by in Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City. 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 Foster City, 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 Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City, elsewhere in San Mateo, 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 Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Foster City, 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 Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City 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 94404 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 Foster City counselor?

Before seeing your Foster City 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. Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City, 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.

Foster City 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 Foster City, 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 Foster City therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Foster City.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Foster City:

94404

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