When it comes to caring for your mental health in San Mateo County, online therapy can be a convenient, accessible option. You may face a range of barriers to in-person sessions, including financial restraints, transportation challenges, and scheduling conflicts. With an online therapy platform like BetterHelp, you can attend sessions from the comfort of your home at a time that suits your schedule. Plus, you can change providers at any time for no additional fee, which can make it easier to find the right therapist for you.

Therapy can help you through various challenges, from learning stress management to overcoming painful emotions to managing the symptoms of mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. While BetterHelp does not offer group therapy or family counseling, your therapist can help you develop tools and techniques to manage personal struggles and gain self-awareness to manage familial challenges more effectively. 

Finding a therapist who greets you with genuine warmth and who you enjoy working with can help you stay committed to your recovery. Connect with a therapist in San Mateo, CA, today to learn more about the benefits of online therapy.

 

This is Carri Barish's avatar and link to their profile

Carri Barish

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Mateo
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Are you feeling depressed? Overwhelmed? Anxious? Confused? Difficulties communicating effectively? Problems with relationships? Stressed out? Want easy to understand support you can use right away? I offer easy to understand support you can use right away and it includes making the most of your time, strengths and resources How I work is that I focus on the outcomes you are looking for. It’s a collaborative effort and I listen to what it is you need support with that session on that day - and the take-aways that support You. I use what is often referred to as a multi-modality approach. Primarily, I use CBT, cognitive-behavioral therapy, DBT, dialectical behavior therapy, both proven to be very effective for people. They address how our thoughts impact our feelings which then impact our behaviors. And also how to better manage distress and emotions and while improving relationship skills. In addition I utilize Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Adlerian Therapy. Solution Focused therapy helps keep you focused in the present, thinking about solutions, and on specific actions you can take towards the outcomes you are looking for. Motivational Interviewing keeps you motivated and as you work with your strengths creating daily successes of all sizes. Adlerian theory helps eliminate outmoded or negative imprints from childhood that are weighing you down or are triggering feelings of guilt, fear, and resentment. When you look at these it helps reduce any default or go-to reactions and behaviors that keep you in situations and relationships that you want to improve or get out of – and as time goes by - wonder why you things don't change. The advantage of this approach is that I am able to select from a variety of theories and utilize what will be most useful for you and your particular situation or circumstance. We will start with whatever you think most important, create a plan you can start on, and come up with at least one thing you can begin doing differently, or stop doing, until your next session, and go forward from there. I am here to help! Get it touch with me now - yes now is a good time for me too! If I don't get back to you within an hour, I will within 24 hours unless you contact me over the weekend and then I will get back to you the following Monday.

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Candace Sebastian

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Mateo
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience working in the field of counseling and mental health. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, LGBT, and chronic mental illness. My counseling style is warm and patient. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines humanistic, interpersonal, and cognitive-behavioral counseling. I am also formally trained in EMDR. With the ups and downs of life, I understand that you are most likely here during a more challenging time. You may be experiencing loss of a relationship, struggling with addiction, loss of job, arguing with your partner, feeling lonely, struggling with family issues, feeling unworthy or not good enough. It takes courage to seek help during these times, and I am here to help you. I am glad that you are here and I am looking forward to working with you. ~ Candace, LCSW

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Susan Johnston

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Mateo
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT (California & Indiana),LMHC (Indiana)
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Indiana, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Indiana, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I was a returning adult student and have been very fortunate to work as a team with individuals and families in office settings, residential and group homes, inpatient mental health care, intensive outpatient treatment, probation, and a college academic environment in my work experience and counselor training. What I learned is that many of us may want and/or need help sometimes. I also have training and experience in addiction treatment, where I enjoyed helping individuals and families work together to believe in themselves and possibility again. I have had the pleasure of working with individuals, couples, and families from nearby places and immigrant and refugee families from around the world, with the help of professional interpreters, and all of us working together to create a team respectful of languages and cultures. My counseling philosophy combines humanistic and experiential theories and emotions and cognitive work grounded in family systems theory. My goal is to work together as a team to individualize treatment and help you meet your goals. Take care, Susan

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Cinda Salas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Mateo
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyDepression
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in a Clinical setting, Medical Social Work, Child Protective Services and a Foster Family Agency. With my vast array of skills, I may have the knowledge to help you in your time of need. My approach is a matter of fact and direct. I feel people may need to hear things their friends are apprehensive to tell them. Additionally, I am an active listener who ensures my clients are heard with respect and dignity. I earned a Master of Social Work degree in 2014 from Loma Linda University - a Christian based program. I am comfortable speaking with others about their religious beliefs and traditions. If you are ready to take a new journey in your life, I would be honored to support you towards your goals.

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This is Galina Storozhenko's avatar and link to their profile

Galina Storozhenko

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Mateo
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Liana Gibson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Mateo
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Hello, I am licensed in California, Texas and Washington with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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This is Jacqueline Anthony's avatar and link to their profile

Jacqueline Anthony

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Mateo
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
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, 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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This is Elizabeth Zamierowski-Wenger's avatar and link to their profile

Elizabeth Zamierowski-Wenger

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Mateo
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional work experience and I LOVE PEOPLE. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am here to help!

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This is Elana Berman's avatar and link to their profile

Elana Berman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Mateo
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties and coping through life changes. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am available to support you in that process.

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This is Catherine Nguyen's avatar and link to their profile

Catherine Nguyen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Mateo
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. 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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How to find a therapist for counseling in San Mateo

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

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

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

Therapists in San Mateo, 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 San Mateo 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 San Mateo 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 San Mateo 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 San Mateo?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a San Mateo 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 San Mateo 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 San Mateo 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 94402 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 San Mateo counselor?

Before seeing your San Mateo 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. San Mateo 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 San Mateo 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 San Mateo 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 San Mateo, 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.

San Mateo 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 San Mateo, 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 San Mateo 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 San Mateo.

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

94401, 94402, 94403, 94404, 94497

Popular cities near San Mateo, CA

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