Los Altos was listed as the third most expensive zip code in the United States in 2017 by Forbes, with the homes averaging almost eight million dollars. In fact, the founders of Apple, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak started the company in Jobs’ garage in Los Altos in 1976. 

Even though the city is booming, they insist on keeping their community partially rural, keeping many parks, tree-lined streets, and recreational areas all over town. According to experts, living in a rural area is better than city life when it comes to your mental health. However, if you need to talk to a mental health professional, there are dozens of them located in Los Altos. 

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Mary Kay Zayani

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
25 years of experience

Hello my name is Mary Kay and I am honored that you have taken the opportunity to seek online counseling through BetterHelp. We all sometimes need to seek guidance from another as we navigate through a traumatic life event, difficult life transition, or when we just feel "in a funk"/need an extra boost, inspiration, and/or motivation. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist (LCSW) in both California and New York States. I have over 25 years experience in the field of counseling and mental health. I have a Masters degree in Clinical Social Work Clinical Counseling from Columbia University in New York. From a very young age, I have always had a gift for healing, listening, soothing and comforting others which I been able to channel into a life long career. My areas of specialties include treating: trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, healthy and positive parenting issues, PTSD, relational intimacy/couples issues, career guidance, and motivational coaching, among others. My approach to counseling and style within the sessions is based on Strength Based, Cognitive-Behavioral , mixed with Psycho-dynamic techniques. What this means, is that I am a neutral objective nonjudgmental "witness", of whom motivates, listens, validates, soothes, and encourage you on your life path. Most therapists do not "tell a client what to do". Instead I will help you to come up with the answers, choices and decisions from within yourself. I have a warm, kind and empathic counseling approach focused on getting to know your story, helping you to stabilize emotions, self-soothe, and challenge unhelpful core beliefs and cognitive distortions.

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Corie Duzsa

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
18 years of experience

Hello and welcome. I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California with nearly 20 years experience. I have worked with children, teens, adults, couples, and families with a wide range of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship issues, parenting problems, family conflict, chronic pain, prenatal and postnatal depression, low self-esteem and more. I would describe my therapeutic approach as warm, compassionate, and empathic. I try to meet my clients where they are and help guide them through where they want and need to go. I believe creating a therapeutic relationship based on trust, safety, and compassion allows clients to explore their thoughts and feelings freely and openly. I like to work with clients collaboratively to discover strategies and solutions that work best for them. My approach combines cognitive behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and mindfulness therapy. I feel strongly that our childhood and early experiences shape who we are and how we see the world. In my work, I see a lot of childhood trauma survivors and work with client's to identify how their life has been impacted by their experiences, and work to develop goals for positive change in their lives.

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Dr. Stephen Gutknecht

Offering therapy in CA
License: Pay.D.,MBA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical Psychologist in California and Hawaii with over 10 years of experience working as a therapist and patient advocate. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. Many patients have come from an LGBTQIA+ background. I have worked in institutional and community settings, including hospitals. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating every person with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, solution focused and existentialism. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs and choices. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Olivia Johnson

Offering therapy in CA
License: Psy.D.
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
30 years of experience

I am a clinical and forensic psychologist licensed in California with 30 years of experience (I love helping folks!) I typically subscribe to a solution-focused therapy approach which I have found to be successful with various client populations. I find that a strong therapeutic alliance is central in facilitating change regardless of the presenting problem or issue. I really look forward to working with you!

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Laurie Richardson

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT,Laurie Richardson
Relationship issuesGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Having returned to grad school to become a therapist at the midpoint of my life, I bring a wealth of knowledge from being a parent, a preschool teacher, a 7th grade Waldorf teacher, an art instructor, a graphic designer and copyrighter, and an art consultant for over 20 years. My school trajectory took me from UCLA to San Jose State to Sac State, a Waldorf training college and finally to San Francisco's CIIS. As I've entered the field of being a therapist, what I've learned is that the act of becoming a therapist means you are a good listener and humbled each time a human being opens their heart to you. To that end, I work diligently to understand and tailor each treatment I design to work specifically with the client in front of me. I relish the empathy and dignity of Person-Centered Therapy because I firmly believe that each person knows themselves best and can apply what they learn when they are given the tools and perspective to see solutions within the framework of the very problems they brought to therapy in the first place. Being an EXA therapist means that I employ the Expressive Arts (poetry, rap, photography, 2D and 3D art, dance, sculpture, writing, drama, music, gardening, and cooking, and eco-art) into the healing process. The art becomes another tool and a living testament to the fact that healing is happening. My style of therapy focuses upon being sensitive, empathetic with a healthy dash of questions. My sessions are usually filled with interactive games, art, laughter, meditation and yes, breakthroughs and tears - all the range of possible human expression. People tell me they come away from their session feeling happier, lighter, clearer and understood. I have great compassion for the people I see, whether via telehealth or in-person. My goal is to be fully present, listening, supporting, acknowledging and empowering you forward, however that next chapter appears. Looking forward to chatting with you soon!

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Linda Nugen

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, 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. 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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Dr. Justin Lutz

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsLGBTAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am a firm believer that therapy is a process and starting therapy can be overwhelming and anxiety provoking. From finding a good fit between yourself and a clinician to being open and vulnerable with another person – the prospect is at times a lot to take in and can feel monumental. Regardless of what it is that brings you to therapy, reaching out is the first step and I wanted to congratulate you on the courage it took to take those steps. I approach my work with warmth, compassion and empathy to build a safe environment where clients can feel secure and free to engage with all aspects of their emotional lives that may not otherwise be accessible. In this judgement free zone, my goal is to provide clients with the opportunity to re-author personal narratives, create space for healing and to generate the potential shift of emotional, occupational and interpersonal patterns. My extensive clinical training includes working with system impacted teenagers involved in juvenile justice. I work with teens and adults dealing with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and family/childhood trauma. In addition, I support, assist and advocate for clients whose personal identity lies on the LGBTQIA2S+ spectrum while they explore, investigate, or plan the rest of their life journey as their authentic self. Contact me to schedule a phone consultation so I can hear more about what is bringing you to therapy and answer any questions you might have about the process!

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Anthony Moore

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to my practice, having worked with diverse populations for nearly a decade. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of providing therapy and support to individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including homelessness, re-entry (formerly incarcerated individuals), and serious mental illness (SMI). Over the last 3+ years, I have expanded my focus to work closely with first responders and essential employees, including nurses, doctors, firefighters, and police officers. This unique experience has given me profound insights into the pressures and demands faced by those who selflessly serve our communities. Witnessing firsthand the sacrifices and emotional toll endured by essential employees, I am committed to providing counseling services tailored to their unique needs and experiences. My therapeutic approach is grounded in person-centered therapy, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe and non-judgmental space for clients. By fostering a collaborative and empowering environment, I strive to help individuals explore their strengths, find inner resilience, and work towards personal growth and healing. In addition to person-centered therapy, I incorporate mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques into my practice. Mindfulness offers essential tools for managing stress, anxiety, and depression, allowing clients to develop present-moment awareness and self-compassion. With training in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) skills, I assist clients in identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors. CBT has proven effective in addressing a variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, and trauma-related symptoms. Drawing from my expertise in drug and alcohol counseling, I provide comprehensive support to individuals struggling with substance use disorders. I approach this work from a harm reduction perspective, meeting clients where they are in their journey and promoting safety and positive change. My background includes extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, substance use, and trauma. I believe in the resiliency of the human spirit and am dedicated to helping individuals overcome these challenges to lead fulfilling lives. Furthermore, I have valuable experience in crisis response, suicide education and prevention, and community outreach. These experiences have deepened my understanding of mental health challenges and the importance of early intervention and support. My commitment to cultural competence is integral to my practice. I strive to provide a therapeutic experience that respects and honors the unique backgrounds and experiences of each individual. As we continue to navigate the complexities of life, especially during the pandemic and beyond, I am here to provide compassionate and effective counseling support. Whether you are seeking help for anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, or any other challenges, I am dedicated to supporting your healing and growth. Please feel free to reach out to me to schedule an appointment or discuss any questions you may have. I look forward to working with you on your journey towards improved mental health and well-being. Sincerely, Anthony Moore Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist CA121972

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This is Ji Eun Midlam's avatar and link to their profile

Ji Eun Midlam

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

I am licensed in California with 21 years of professional work experience in healthcare and private practice. I graduated from the USC (University of Southern California) and received degrees in both Public Administration and Social Work. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I am also a Certified Health Coach and provide career coaching. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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This is Mary Clark's avatar and link to their profile

Mary Clark

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
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 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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How to find counseling in Los Altos

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Los Altos 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 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 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, 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 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 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 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 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 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 94023 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 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 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, 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 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.

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

94022, 94023, 94024

Popular cities near Los Altos, CA

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