In life, reaching the top of the hills of your life can be a challenge. Anxiety, depression, and other life problems can make it a tough task, especially if you have no ideas of where to go in your life. You need to create a plan, and a person who can help you do so is a counselor based in La Mesa. 

La Mesa’s motto is the “Jewel of the Hills.” You can find your own jewel by climbing to the top of a challenge, but it can be tough for you to do so. A counselor can help you, but you need to listen to them to accomplish your goals.

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Jaronda Lige

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepression
15 years of experience

“New beginnings start with knowing how we create the trap that we are caught in, how we have deprived ourselves of the love we need. Strong bonds grow from resolving to halt the cycles of disconnection, the dances of distress”. Dr. Sue Johnson Hello! Welcome to your journey to happiness!  My name is Jaronda Lige and I am a proud Oakland, Californian native, Fitness-loving, Meditation-enthusiast, and Coffee, Cocoa, and Tea obsessed Licensed Psychotherapist based in Southern California. I obtained my Master of Social Work degree in 2005 from California State University, East Bay. My personal and professional journey continued to Southern California in 2006. I earned my licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Work in 2013. I am now living and practicing as a Psychotherapist in San Diego, California, and licensed to practice in the State of Arizona. I am continuing my academic journey at Loma Linda University, Doctor of Social Work program to advance my career in the areas of Clinical Leadership and Practice Innovation. My practice nurtures a non-judgmental, supportive atmosphere rooted in safety, mutual trust, respect, and honesty. My jam is helping others understand love, unlock triggers, understand emotions and needs, untangle the disharmony, overcome relational disconnection by creating positive connections and strengthening attachment & relationship bonds. My therapeutic style is integrative, with elements of mindful, open, explicit conversations coupled with evidence-based research of Emotional Focused Family Therapy, Emotional Focused Individual Therapy, and Emotional Focused Therapy for Couples.  Life can throw us lemons and a tether totter of emotions. I am honored that you chose this healing journey.  I look forward to collaborating with you as you mend your heart(s), increase secure attachment bonds, deepen your emotions, and Create Open-hearted Connections w/ One Another & self. 

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Felicia Henderson

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT,LPC,M.Ed
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
17 years of experience

Therapeutic Approaches: I tailor my therapeutic approach based on the needs of my clients. I readily use a variety of therapies including Family systems, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Brief therapy, Person- Centered therapy, and Solution focused. Experience & Education: I began my career in the mental health field working in an inpatient psychiatric facility. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas in 2005. I moved to California right after graduation to provide therapy in an underserved county in Northern California. I provided therapy to children in the school system, individual counseling with adults, in-home family therapy and provided support services during medication appointments with psychiatrist. I also facilitated Parenting groups during the summer. In 2010 I moved back to Texas to be near my family and continue to provide counseling to individuals, couples dealing with divorce/separation, children and adolescents with a wide range of presenting problems. I have over 15 years of experience providing counseling in a wide variety of settings Approach/Philosophy: I believe that you have to meet people where they are in life. The more accepting that you are of others, the easier it is to understand where they are coming from. I believe that people are more open and less defensive when they don’t feel judged. Who am I: I love being near the water as it has a calming effect. I love spending my free time at the pool with my family and go on at least 1-2 beach vacations a year. My latest hobby has been backyard D.I.Y projects. I am hoping to turn my backyard into my own private retreat one day.

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Heather Parenti

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesEating disordersDepression
21 years of experience

My clients come in with many different troubles and often, the troubles lead to a great many other problems that they have or have had in their lives. There is no problem too big and there is a way to live better. I believe we are looking for contentment. To feel "okay" and, today's society tries to warp us into believing we are not okay because we need something else than what we have right now. We all have the capacity to choose a better life, better relationships, better care for ourselves. The answer is not outside of us but within. I work with children, teens and adults that think they're not enough. We are all enough. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 20 years, licensed in both California and Connecticut. I received my degree from California University Long Beach, living in Southern California most of my life until moving to Connecticut in 2017. I am a professional and have worked in many entities including private practice since 2004, the medical and mental health community, the education system, and athletic coaching. I have been a competitive athlete since childhood and continue training and competing through all life transitions. Additionally, I have created space and time to practice yoga and meditation. I have also accepted that I am an artist - writing, drawing and painting through change and growth. My treatment approach is varied based on my client. My main theoretical framework is probably Cognitive Behavioral Therapy but also utilize Mindfulness/Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy. I can help individuals who are experiencing many things in life. I have clients and former clients leading full, enriched lives because of the guidance I have provided through the therapeutic process. .

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Ranee Sahachartsiri

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

My name is Ranee and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of experience in the Behavioral Health/Social Work field. My work experience includes working with individuals age 18 and up, who struggle with issues in phase of life, family of origin, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, and stress. I implement a culturally-competent, client-centered, and strengths-based approach to foster a safe environment to facilitate discovery of one's potential to learn about themselves and grow from past experiences, and to not allow the past to define their future potential. Each person has the ability to draw from their resilience and inner strengths to develop coping tools to achieve the best version of themselves. I generally respond to messages in the evenings and am available for early morning sessions during the weekends, with some availability on Fridays and weekday evenings. I am honored to be selected to partner with you on your journey to wellness, recovery, and peace within yourself.

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Alana Jones

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with 8+ years of experience in the field. I graduated with my Master's of Science in Counseling/Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy degree from University of Phoenix in 2014. I have provided services and support to a wide range of populations, from early childhood, adolescents, teenagers, adults, couples, and families within many differing family systems. I have worked with varying clients who have previously had involvement in multiple systems (mental health organizations, non-public school settings, social services/foster care, and juvenile justice/probation). Also, I have worked with clients presenting with a wide range of concerns, such as depression, stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma/abuse, parenting issues, PTSD, and ADHD. Through my years of experience, I have provided individual, group, family, and dyadic therapy, along with crisis stabilization, intensive care coordination, case management, intensive home based support services, and individual rehabilitation services. I typically consider my style of treatment to take a client centered approach where the client is ultimately in control of the metaphoric, "steering wheel" in their lives. I have a strong skill set to see and bring forward the positives and strengths in people at an individual level and within varying relational systems while instilling hope. I feel strongly that sometimes we all could use a little extra support or acknowledgement of the humanistic parts within ourselves while navigating all the barriers life throws our way. I also consider myself to understand and acknowledge in treatment that one of the most powerful things a person can do is to build an ally ship with someone who they can trust. I would love to be that ally, to listen, validate, and support you in making the best decisions for yourself while working to achieve the best quality of life you can have. I will take on an eclectic approach, meaning I typically will use varying parts of several treatment approaches in order to address all areas of concern. I use additional treatment approaches, such as CBT, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Trauma Focused Therapy. I will tailor our interactions, treatment, and subsequent goals/plan to meet your specific and unique needs. Therapy is a very interactive and collaborative process, which also means that treatment may need to be adjusted as progress is made. I'm looking forward to working with you!

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Merry Walensa

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA
Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients cope with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career planning and/or difficulties on the job. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I do integrative work including spirituality, related to the psychological-philosophical work often referred to as existential theory, that is inclusive. I create for ALL my clients a space that is 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 making change. I am here to support & empower you on this journey. Please note: that ALL new clients need to sign up for a VIDEO appointment FIRST before a phone or chat may be used.For new comers. I also highly recommend keeping your appointments and cancelling by giving advanced notices when ever possible. I appreciate that COURTEOUS. Thank you.

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Heather Silva

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Carlos Cavazos

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LPC
LGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
4 years of experience

Hi, Im Carlos, a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Sexologist and Relationship Coach . I have years of experience working with couples and individuals on relationships, communication, self esteem ,LGBT issues, various mental health disorders and have contributed my expertise to Health , Cosmopolitan , Well + Good, Bustle and other publications. I have a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Counseling. I currently provide Mental Health Consultation for a Fortune 500 company and provide therapy to the local LGBT community. Having worked in many settings including private practice, crisis residential clinics, and community mental health clinics has provided me the ability to assist all sort of individuals with all types of needs and backgrounds. I am a Kink and Poly Friendly Therapist whose approach is pretty eclectic, as everyone is different and has different needs. I do like Solution Focused approaches with an emphasis on Narrative therapy, to help my clients rewrite their past and create the bright future they deserve. I take a very modern approach to therapy and will work with you to help achieve a better you.

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Melanie Almada

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. As a therapist my main objective is to create a therapeutic space that promotes growth. There are many reasons to seek therapy; be it a recent transition, difficulty coping with past negative experiences, or experiencing an increase in unpleasant symptoms. No matter the reason, it is always important to invest in your personal growth and wellness. Since each individual is unique I utilize a variety of therapeutic methods to fit your needs. I offer experience gained from diverse and varying settings including: schools, out-patient, and medical clinics. It would be my pleasure to support as you work towards your goals!

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Karina Rico

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find counseling in La Mesa

Finding the best therapist close by in La Mesa 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 La Mesa. 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 La Mesa, 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa, 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 La Mesa area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed La Mesa 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa, 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa 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 91941 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa, 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.

La Mesa 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 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 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 La Mesa.

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

91941, 91942, 91943, 91944

Popular cities near La Mesa, CA

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