If you’re looking for a therapist in Hayward, CA, consider an online platform like BetterHelp. BetterHelp has been making therapy more available for over a decade. After signing up, most people are matched with a mental health professional in less than 48 hours. You can attend sessions online from anywhere you have an internet connection and switch providers anytime for free until you find the right therapist. 

BetterHelp therapists use a person-centered approach and genuine warmth to help you learn the coping tools and new skills you need to deal with life challenges. Whether your present challenges include family conflict, low self-esteem, a lack of personal growth, or feeling stuck, a BetterHelp therapist located in the Castro Valley can help guide you through your new journey.

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Ashwini Gupta

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Hayward
Counselor License Type(s): MFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Namaste, my name is Ashwini Gupta and I am Therapist/Intuitive Life Coach specializing in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as well as Vedanta and Mindfulness-based practices. With 20 plus of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges, I am passionate about empowering my clients to live more meaningful and fulfilling lives truly being in touch with the essence of soul identity. Using ACT as my primary therapeutic approach, I create a warm and non-judgmental space where we can work together to address difficulties such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. ACT combines mindfulness, acceptance, and behavior change strategies to guide clients towards psychological flexibility, allowing them to better handle distress and align their actions with their deeply-held values. What is ACT? At its core, ACT is a behavioral therapy: it’s about taking action. But it’s not about just any old action. First, it’s about values-guided action. There’s a big existential component to this model: **What do you want to stand for in life? **What really matters, deep in your heart? **What is the legacy do you want to create for yourself? ACT gets you in touch with what matters in the big picture: your heart’s deepest desires for who you want to be and what you want to do during your brief time on this planet. You then use these core values to guide, motivate, and inspire behavioral change. What is Vedanta? Vedanta is one of the world's oldest philosophies which affirms the oneness of existence and the divinity of the soul. A close look at the word "Vedanta" is revealing: It is the combination of 2 words: "Veda" which means 'knowledge' and "anta" which means 'the goal of'. In this context, knowledge refers to understanding one's own divine nature- meaning and purpose in life

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Marlo Lewis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Hayward
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist. I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Psychology from California State University, Hayward in 2002 and a Master's of Social Work from California State University, East Bay in 2008. I offer a supportive environment where we can work together to increase your happiness and emotional wellness. It takes strength and courage to facilitate change. My passion is helping clients overcome obstacles and barriers so they can enjoy their best selves. Together, we will work to uncover and resolve underlying issues that are causing negative feelings and develop new thought patterns and behaviors to help enhance your mental and emotional wellbeing. We will also focus on establishing your personal goals, make adjustments as needed and develop a plan to achieve them together. Let's plant and nurture the seed of hope as a part of your journey. I am currently offering video and phone chats only.

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Nathalie Contro

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Hayward
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
3 years of experience

I have been working with couples, individuals and families for over twenty years. As a therapist, I collaborate with clients in finding healthier ways of coping with stress, communicating their needs, and resolving conflicts and in developing intimacy within their relationships. Each client is met where they are at, and with unconditional regard, the time we spend together will involve you developing tools and insights to living you life, and relationships authentically and to their full potential. I specialize in couples, intimacy issues, substance use disorders, PTSD, anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Personality Disorders. The therapeutic relationship is a vessel in which with unconditional positive regard, our collaboration will serve to support your discovering the road to living your life to your full potential. My approach is to support you in uncovering and utilizing your insight, intuition, and self-efficacy , to empower you on your journey towards a life that purposeful, balanced, and centered. You will be met with empathy and presence, so that can freely, explore behavior, challenges, and identify road to healing and self actualization. No one person fits a mold, we are all very unique individuals with a special set of qualities and skills set, therefore it is essential to meet the client where they are at. My approach integrates various techniques that include psychotherapeutic strategies (CBT, DBT, Self Psychology, Object Relations, and Systems Therapy). Movement, active imagination, dreams work, breathwork are also tools utilized to increased insight, promote balance and integration.

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Steven Frank

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Hayward
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist. I am experienced in helping clients with depression and anxiety, as well as stress issues. Over the last few years I’ve been treating survivors of trauma and abuse. Having working in the California State Hospital system as a psychiatric technician, I have been part of a hospital treatment team in working with those with bipolar disorder (those stable on their medication). I enjoy working with couples to repair communication and trust, whether to reconcile differences or to improve communication after separation or divorce. I appreciate and respect anyone deciding to seek positive change in their life. Taking the first steps in committing to treatment takes a whole lot of dedication and courage. I want to know what you want from therapy, what made you take those first steps in scheduling an appointment. I want to understand what you need to improve, not to add to conflict and personal pain. I look forward to your call.

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Claudia Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Hayward
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionADHD
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 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 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. 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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Erean Larry-Fiakpuyi

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Hayward
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Ruben Cabrera

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Hayward
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression

I am a bilingual licensed therapist in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Mari Conti

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Hayward
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 15 years of clinical work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship and/or family issues. In addition I can assist in increasing motivation, self esteem, and confidence. Using a strength based approach, and a little humor, I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. We will work together to create a 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!

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Gary White

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Hayward
LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCareer difficulties
36 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 36 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Alexandra Kahn

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Hayward
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience

II am licensed Christian therapist in California with 20 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 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 a Christian therapist who knows how important it is to have God in my life and incorporate faith into sessions.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Hayward

Finding the best therapist close by in Hayward 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 Hayward 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 Hayward. 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 Hayward, 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 Hayward 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 Hayward 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 Hayward 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 Hayward 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 Hayward, elsewhere in Alameda, or in the greater state of California. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Hayward 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 Hayward 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 Hayward 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 Hayward 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 Hayward online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Hayward, 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 Hayward 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 Hayward 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 Hayward 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 Hayward?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Hayward 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 Hayward 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 Hayward 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 94543 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 Hayward counselor?

Before seeing your Hayward 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. Hayward 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 Hayward 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 Hayward 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 Hayward, 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.

Hayward 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 Hayward, 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 Hayward 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 Hayward.

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

94540, 94541, 94542, 94543, 94544, 94545, 94557

Popular cities near Hayward, CA

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