Counseling services can be beneficial to almost anyone, and even life changing to some. A therapist offers support and tools to manage stress, make positive changes, build healthier platonic and romantic relationships, and facilitate personal growth. Many find that therapy helps them find balance and create a more fulfilling life in general. 

When it comes to finding a therapist, Santa Cruz, CA may have more options than more rural communities on the Central Coast, but finding the right therapist can be challenging even in a city.  One reason for this is that within mental health care there are a number of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, some of which may work better than others depending on what you need. For example, if you are looking for CBT for a mood disorder, the marriage/family therapist that provides therapy down the street won’t be much help. What you want or need may not necessarily be available near enough to be convenient. That’s where online therapy can help. 

BetterHelp is an online platform that offers access to a wide range of mental health providers who have expertise across a variety of approaches and techniques, and experience working with diverse populations. Simply fill out an online questionnaire and BetterHelp will match you with the therapist that best meets your personal needs. And because a collaborative approach can be so essential to success, if you need to change therapists you can do so at no additional cost.

Online therapy is also a convenient solution for many busy professionals, parents, and students. Online sessions fit easily into any schedule, and with video chat, phone, and text messaging options, you can meet with your therapist from the comfort of your own home or office. 

If you or a family member have been thinking about therapy for any reason, contact BetterHelp to get started. Or you can check out the list of Santa Cruz County-based online professionals below for more information. 

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Jade Yamada

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Santa Cruz
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesSelf esteem
12 years of experience

Hi there, my name is Jade Yamada and I am a licensed clinical social worker( (LCSW) in the state of California. I am so glad you are stopping by because it means that you have made a decision to reach out and seek help. I understand that this is not easy to do, and I am here to support and help you through this process. I have been providing therapy as a psychotherapist over 10 years, and I have worked with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, social issues, and self image/ low self esteem. I also work with couples that are struggling with various issues, and also parents who are struggling with a divorce and their children. In therapy, I will walk with you together at your pace and help you find solutions. You deserve a happy and authentic life. I am looking forward to working with you.

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Melissa Herrera

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Santa Cruz
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California (LCSW) and I have been working in the counseling field since 2010. I have experience working in outpatient and residential settings with individuals with a range of ages experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, and a wide range of challenges. I use a person-centered, and integrative approach with the individuals I serve. This means that I make consistent efforts to meet you "where you are at". I hope to support you in being a catalyst to progress through your unique process of self-discovery and self-identification. I utilize relationship building, experiential and narrative approaches, and solution-focused therapy. During sessions, we are a team, addressing challenges together to become free from judgment, criticism, and pain. I believe in creating a space where we can have difficult conversations, work on resolving challenges, and collaborate together to identify goals tailored to your personal needs and experiences. It takes a lot of courage and motivation to reach out for support. I am here for you and thank you for trusting me to support you on your team. I am available for unscheduled communication with subscribers Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm. I generally can respond at least once per morning and once per evening, sometimes more! You can also book a live session with me which can range in times throughout the week; please view "Schedule a session with your counselor" to schedule a time for us to live chat, video, or call. Please remember that BetterHelp (or sister site!) is not appropriate if you are in crisis or in immediate need of support. In crisis situations, please call 911 or local emergency services. You can also call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to talk to someone right away! I look forward to working with you!

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Katherine Weller

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Santa Cruz
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficulties
30 years of experience

I’d like to introduce myself. I am a practicing psychotherapist licensed in both Washington and California. My licensure is as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) since 1989. My training working with individuals and families is informed by an educational and experiential foundation in human systems, so my perspective is through the lens of our human experience in context, both historic and present day. Early family experiences, present day relationships, work and school environments and community surroundings all impact our view of ourselves, others, and our relationship to the world. I am excited to work with each of you to discover what can create for you a sense of hope, promise, self-regard, and general increased emotional health. Together we will look to those positive possibilities to inspire action to address and change what holds you back and stands in the way of a true sense of wellbeing and personal agency. I have worked in the field for a long time in multiple settings from hospitals and public health to military bases, agencies, and small practice offices in rural and urban communities; from these varied experiences I have developed so much respect for the diversity of human experience and the personal and unique nature of each individual’s set of challenges. I am trained in many approaches and find that the core of effective work is the quality relationship with you, the client, and the level of understanding and trust that grows out of listening, challenging, and encouraging positive action. I will draw from a number of proven effective models of therapy as appropriate to help you find your way, and our work will be dedicated to moving you towards your personal goals. I truly look forward to our time together.

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Carlos Cavazos

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Santa Cruz
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LPC
LGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
4 years of experience

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

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Susan Hayatghaib

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Santa Cruz
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. 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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Christopher Cox

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Santa Cruz
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & anger management. 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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Regina Burnette

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Santa Cruz
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 17 years of professional work experience with clients from diverse backgrounds and areas of concern. I provide person centered approaches to assist members of the community in releasing traumas, hurts, and other obstacles that are holding them back so they can restore themselves to a higher level of functioning and happiness. 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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Mihaela Diamond

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Santa Cruz
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and coach, I am deeply committed to empowering you to embrace your full potential and live authentically. With a passion to help others on their journey to self-discovery, I specialize in inner-child work, nervous system regulation, and mindset transformation. My philosophy is simple, yet profound: we are alive to thrive, not just survive. It is my mission to guide you in breaking free from limiting beliefs, fears, and societal pressures, so that you are free to cultivate a vibrant, authentic and fulfilling life. Through my work and personal experience, I have witnessed and experienced the transformative power of healing past wounds, the incredible intelligence that our nervous system and our emotions hold, and what is possible when we shift our relationship with fear. By creating a safe and nurturing space, I empower my clients to explore their innermost desires, confront obstacles, and step into their true selves with confidence and purpose. Whether you're navigating a life transition such as breakup, separation, divorce, a career change or empty nest, or you just feel stuck, I am here to accompany you on your journey to your future self, your next level.

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Tyson Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Santa Cruz
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesAnger managementDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Utah with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & anger management. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Salina Cobbin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Santa Cruz
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist/Art Therapist in CA and have been working with the BIPOC community since 2016. I have experience in helping folks with depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationship issues, trauma, self-esteem, intersecting identities, stress management and life transitions/changes. I tailor treatment based on your individuals needs utilizing Narrative Therapy, EMDR Therapy, CBT, and/or Art Therapy. My goal is to collaborate with each individual and create a safe space to support the healing journey.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Santa Cruz

Finding the best therapist close by in Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz. 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 Santa Cruz, 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz, elsewhere in Santa Cruz, 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Santa Cruz, 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz 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 95067 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 Santa Cruz counselor?

Before seeing your Santa Cruz 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. Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz, 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.

Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz, 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Santa Cruz:

95060, 95061, 95062, 95063, 95064, 95065, 95067

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