In San Rafael, CA, individuals seeking mental health support have access to a range of therapists who provide services online. These professionals are often described as down to earth and are committed to offering effective treatment strategies in a supportive environment. They cater to various demographics, including teens, and specialize in approaches like play therapy, which can be particularly beneficial for younger clients.

The primary focus of many therapists in San Rafael is on personal growth and self-exploration. These elements are crucial for clients who feel stuck or are facing difficult challenges. Through therapy, individuals may gain insight into their behaviors and thought patterns, which can lead to significant improvements in their daily lives and overall well-being.

One key advantage for those in San Rafael, CA is the proximity to San Francisco, allowing therapists to draw upon a wide range of resources and networks to ensure they have all the tools necessary for providing comprehensive care. Finding the right therapist can be a helpful step for anyone looking to embark on a journey of personal development and recovery.

Therapy sessions are designed to help individuals navigate their circumstances and foster an environment where they can achieve greater emotional resilience and mental clarity. Whether through traditional counseling techniques or more specialized methods like play therapy, therapists in San Rafael strive to create a therapeutic space that promotes healing and growth.

Please see the therapist profiles below for more information on the different therapists available online.

 

This is Ellie Trotta's avatar and link to their profile

Ellie Trotta

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Rafael
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with six years of experience helping clients with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, OCD, self-esteem issues, addictions, trauma, geriatric issues, career challenges, and chronic mental illness. I also have experience helping clients with trauma due to physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, as well as individuals who "feel stuck" due to emotional turmoil or relationship issues resulting from childhood abuse or abandonment. I graduated with my Master of Arts degree in psychology in 2016 and am currently a PsyD candidate in clinical psychology. I view the therapist-client relationship as something that is highly sacred and treat my clients with respect, sensitivity, and unconditional positive regard. I believe validation and empathy are necessary parts of the therapeutic process and I treat clients with a warm and compassionate approach. My therapeutic approach also includes DBT, CBT, ACT, experiential, client-centered psychodynamic, mindfulness, narrative, inner child work, solution-focused, and humanistic techniques, specifically tailored to the needs of my client. I also help empower my clients to be experts of their own lives; I am the tour guide but this is your therapeutic journey and I will be respectful of working at a pace that is comfortable for you. It takes courage to take these first steps in your therapeutic journey and I want to congratulate you for your decision to prioritize yourself in order to obtain a happier and more fulfilled life. I look forward to working with you. LPCC license 6558 listed as Elishka Trotta

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Linnette Haynes

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Rafael
Counselor License Type(s): M.A.Ed.,LCSW,PPSC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
10 years of experience

Hello! I am so glad that you are taking steps in your healing and empowerment journey. We all hold so much, numerous responsibilities and roles, especially in these unprecedented times. I want to acknowledge how amazing it is that you are making time for you! My name is Linnette Haynes, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I earned my Master of Social Work degree (MSW) and Pupil in Personnel Services Credential (PPSC) in 2007, my LCSW in 2015, and most recently, my Master of Arts in Education (M.A.Ed.) in 2020. I have over 10 years of counseling experience. I have worked in a variety of settings with individuals, children, youth and families in community organizations, schools and jails. I have experience working with survivors of trauma, including domestic/intimate violence and violence in communities. I have also worked extensively with women, communities of color, and those from the LGBTQ communities. I approach counseling from a strength-based, empowerment, mindfulness and motivational interviewing approach; utilizing Client-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focussed Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Informed Therapy. I am here to provide a safe, non-judgmental and authentic space for you to be heard, understood and accepted; to explore and learn more about yourself; speak your truths; set personal goals and receive support to achieve the solutions you seek; so that you can be your best and happiest you! I look forward to working with you! Linnette

This is Barbara Brown's avatar and link to their profile

Barbara Brown

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Rafael
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I have over 25 years experience is working in multiple clinical settings that include outpatient clinics, , private practice, retirement homes and criminal justice settings. My experience includes work with individuals, groups, couples and families. I truly enjoy working with people and I am dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental setting that supports and empowers clients to manage a variety of concerns and transitions encountered in their lives. My approach is to create a comfortable and supportive atmosphere where the client and I work closely together in resolving issues. In my work I utilize a number of approaches that are best suited to to what is happening in the moment. These modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Solution-focused therapy, Mindfulness Practice and Trauma-Focused Therapy. I also utilize handouts and readings as I believe it is important to assist clients in building a virtual "Tool Box" in which they develop effective tools for working with difficulties in the future. Over the years I have worked with clients struggling with many different issues such as depression, anxiety, stress-related issues, relationship problems, dealing with life changes, issues with aging, grief and loss as well as adjustment and crisis. Reaching out for support during a difficult time is an important and positive step and I would look forward to working with you in this journey.

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Dr. Katherine Walker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Rafael
Counselor License Type(s): PhD
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
32 years of experience

Hello! I am a newly retired middle-aged female who worked for a large health care organization for over 30 years both as a therapist and a manager. During my career there I had a chance to work with a wide variety of clients ranging from those with serious mental illness (Bipolar, Schizophrenic) to those that were coping with life issues such as divorce, loss, or job stress. I completed my undergraduate degree at UC Berkeley and then (after a brief hiatus working as a respiratory therapist) attended graduate school at the California School of Professional Psychology. I enjoy working with a wide range of clients and use an approach that is based in my very strong belief that there is goodness and strength in all people and that all progress in therapy is directly attributable to the efforts that are put in by the client, with my guidance.

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Rosemarie Cameron

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Rafael
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, and depression. Also relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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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Miriam Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Rafael
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 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, trauma and abuse, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Maria Holguin's avatar and link to their profile

Maria Holguin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Rafael
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Jacqueline Hazel

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Rafael
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

Hello and welcome! My name is Jacqueline and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that provides virtual therapy for children, adolescents, adults and families. I understand that everyone may struggle at some time in their life and I am here to support people through those times. My approach to therapy is to provide a non judgmental safe space for clients to explore their feelings in a way that works best for them. I use an eclectic approach to tailor treatment to each individual. I have experience working with clients experiencing a variety of mental health concerns. When it comes to therapy, you are the expert and I am here to help you harness your knowledge and expertise. Taking this first step of seeking out the right person can be the hardest part of starting therapy, I look forward to being on this journey with you!

This is Maria Galvan-Perry's avatar and link to their profile

Maria Galvan-Perry

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Rafael
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT,PPSC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, (LMFT) in California with 13 years of experience working as a Psychotherapist/Mental Health Therapist with Individuals, parents, and mostly children and adolescents . I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, anger issues and adjustment to phase of life. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating people with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral, Narrative, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused, and Rational-Emotive Counseling. I will develop a treatment plan to meet your individual needs and goals. It is brave of you to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to taker this step to understanding patterns and learning new ways to think and relate to others then I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

This is Mallory Wilson's avatar and link to their profile

Mallory Wilson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, San Rafael
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping teens and young adults with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find a therapist for counseling in San Rafael

Finding the best therapist close by in San Rafael 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 Rafael 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 Rafael. 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 Rafael, 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 Rafael 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 Rafael 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 Rafael 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 Rafael 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 Rafael, elsewhere in Marin, 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 Rafael 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 Rafael 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 Rafael 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 Rafael 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 Rafael online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in San Rafael, 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 Rafael 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 Rafael 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 Rafael 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 Rafael?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a San Rafael 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 Rafael 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 Rafael 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 94901 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 Rafael counselor?

Before seeing your San Rafael 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 Rafael 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 Rafael 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 Rafael 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 Rafael, 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 Rafael 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 Rafael, California

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of San Rafael 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 Rafael.

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

94901, 94903, 94913, 94915

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