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Donald Bender

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
37 years of experience

I have been doing individual and couple therapy for over thirty years. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, always choosing the one that best suits the immediate needs of the client. These modalities range from psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral to narrative and existential. There is even some dream and hypnotherapy added when helpful. In addition to my clinical practice, I have extensive experience doing forensic psychology, including resolving workplace disputes, custody issues, and trial consulting. My goal is to help the client find meaningful solutions to challenging life problems.

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Shawn Hensen

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersAnger managementCareer difficultiesDepression
9 years of experience

I am a University of Southern California results-driven graduate working as an LCSW, who specializes in mental health, including military mental health, and who challenges clients to work toward healing and self-sufficiency while emphasizing their personal strengths and milestones. I have been practicing as a therapist in California for 8 years, working with incarcerated, adult males. I specialize in the provision of evidenced-based treatment for a range of psychological difficulties and disorders, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem/poor self-image, adjustment concerns, and family stress. I utilize a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal process and brief solution-oriented approaches to problems in therapy. I believe that the key to effective treatment begins with the quality of the relationship and connection between a therapist and client. I bring with me a combination of life experience which includes being a military spouse growing up in a military family and raising a child with special needs along with my years of experience working with incarcerated individuals and assisting those patients with the daily challenges they endure. I offer an intuitive ability to connect with people facing many types of challenges.

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Shardae Collins

Offering therapy in CA
License: MHP,MA,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of California, Washington, Nevada, and Massachusetts. I have over a decade of experience working with individuals and families with various needs in the field of education, health, and social services. For the last 5 years, I've worked with individuals and families across the life span as a Clinical Social Worker providing therapeutic case management, individual therapy, and family therapy. In my role as Clinical Social Worker, I have supported individuals with a wide range of issues such as: childhood abuse and trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues, attachment issues, racism and discriminations, and workplace issues. I hold a Master of Arts degree in the field of Social Welfare with an emphasis on mental health from the University of California Los Angeles. I also hold a Master of Arts & Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology with an emphasis on inequalities and diversities from California State University of Los Angeles. I have held numerous positions as an adjunct professor of sociology, senior research assistant, and as a Clinical Social worker. I believe that your lived experiences as well as your environment has an impact on your well-being. My therapeutic approach explores and observes your environment and lived experience to better understand your strengths, needs, and hope for the future. I utilize the person-in-environment approach to better assist you in achieving your goals. I believe that you have the power to heal yourself. I view my role in this therapeutic relationship as a guide. I guide you into discovering and tapping into your own human potential. I believe that healing comes from within, and sometimes people must be reminded of their own strength and resilience. My approach is one that is direct, culturally relevant, sensitive, trauma informed, strength-based, individualized, and client-centered. I use an array of therapeutic modalities such as exposure relapse prevention therapies, behavioral activation therapy , mindfulness, motivational interviewing, attachment theory, psychodynamic, solution focused therapy, CBT, and DBT to awaken one’s healing power. On this platform I offer brief solution focused therapy. Therapy can be hard and sometimes scary. I get it, I am here to support you on this journey. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to healing and self-discovery.

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Richard Alongi

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
36 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 36 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, intimacy related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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George Calvin

Offering therapy in CA
Trauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 24+ years of professional experience providing individual and family therapy with teens and adults. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties, life changes and transitions and helping to develop happiness. I work with my clients to create an open, safe and positive environment where thoughts, feelings and ideas 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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Brandon Porsandeh

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of clinical professional work experience. I specialize in working with those struggling with symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD); a condition in which many experience feelings of hopelessness yet are unaware that there are proven and effective treatments for this distressing and often disabling condition. I also have experience working with a variety of clients, including those struggling with stress, anxiety, depression and psychosis. It is not always easy to acknowledge and face the fact that we need professional support to cope with mental health struggles. All too often there is a stigma associated with mental illness. Rather than viewing it like any other health condition, in which a person wouldn't hesitate to seek out treatment, mental health challenges are often viewed as a personal weakness and therefore many avoid professional help. It absolutely takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.

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Suzanne Knapp

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigue
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York with over 10 years of experience working as a Social Worker, psychotherapist, Social work supervisor, and life coach. I have worked in several different settings including foster care, a group residence, a domestic violence shelter, schools, an assisted living home, outpatient mental health clinics as well as private practice. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns and personal goals. I enjoy being able to work with people who are desiring to identify their purpose, build their self esteem and confidence, and learn more about themselves throughout the process. My counseling style is eclectic, engaging and interactive. I believe that every person deserves to have someone that they can talk to, gain insight from and connect with that will not interfere with their daily living. Family and friends are great supports and often times will provide what they think we want them to provide and not what we really want or what really need. I like to create personal and professional goals with individuals based on their interests, opinions, and skills not based on other people's opinions of them. I often will use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Therapy with a humanistic and solution focused approach. Everyone benefits from being able to have a coach, a therapist, someone on their side. I would love to be able to work with you and assist you in being the best version of yourself.

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Sheba Shiver

Offering therapy in CA
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
15 years of experience

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. What I enjoy most about providing mental health services is assisting people with finding their voices. That usually happens with establishing and communicating clear, healthy boundaries in relationships. I start that process with how you might relate to me--working to develop a therapeutic alliance, building trust, and working collaboratively. I learn as much from you as I might be able to teach you. I don't profess to be an expert on your life because it is your experience. I am privileged to be on your journey to wellness. No matter what may be causing disruption in your life--anxiety, depression, trauma, or the like, I will meet you where you are in your process.

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This is Lina Babani Suchov's avatar and link to their profile

Lina Babani Suchov

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
34 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 34 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 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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This is Stacey Lofaro's avatar and link to their profile

Stacey Lofaro

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find counseling in Los Altos Hills

Finding the best therapist close by in Los Altos Hills 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 Los Altos Hills. 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 Los Altos Hills, 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 Los Altos Hills 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 Los Altos Hills 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 Los Altos Hills, elsewhere in Santa Clara, 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 Los Altos Hills area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Los Altos Hills 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 Los Altos Hills 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 Los Altos Hills 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 Los Altos Hills, 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 Los Altos Hills 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 Los Altos Hills 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 Los Altos Hills 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 Los Altos Hills 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 Los Altos Hills 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 94024 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 Los Altos Hills 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 Los Altos Hills 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 Los Altos Hills, 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.

Los Altos Hills 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 Los Altos Hills.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Los Altos Hills:

94022, 94024

Popular cities near Los Altos Hills, CA

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