If you’re looking for a therapist in Simi Valley, CA, you have some options. There are plenty of in-person treatment options available in Ventura County, but if you’re looking for platforms that offer online therapy, consider BetterHelp. With BetterHelp, you attend sessions online from the comfort of your home at a time that fits your schedule. Plus, you can change providers anytime for free until you find a therapist that works for you. 

BetterHelp therapists use a holistic approach to treatment to help people work through various challenges, from issues in their families during their youth to learning how to invest in self-care. They can also help you work through the symptoms of mental health conditions like bipolar disorder or an eating disorder.

Whether you live in Thousand Oaks or Westlake Village, Simi Valley-based therapists can help you learn self-love and improve your happiness and well-being. Contact one of the counselors below to get started.

Psychologist Galina Zlotnikova providing different types of therapy in Simi Valley

Galina Zlotnikova

Clinician
License Type(s): MA,LMFT
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
6 years offering treatment

I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California. I have an MA in counseling psychology from Institute of Transpersonal Psychology (now Sofia University) in Palo Alto, CA. I practice a holistic and somatic form of psychotherapy. That means that in my work I integrate traditional focus on thoughts and feelings as well as the body and the nervous system. I have extensive training in Sensorimotor psychotherapy aimed at helping people overcome effects of developmental trauma and PTSD and develop inner resources for emotional well-being and self-regulation. I have pursued this training, because research and clinical experience show that trauma, especially early childhood trauma is often a root cause of many challenges that we all face at one time or another in our lives, including relational, family and social conflicts, depression, anxiety, addiction, mental and physical illness and many others. I specialize in working with people living with chronic and invisible illness and their caregivers. Both through my work at a hospital and county clinic settings and personal experience I am familiar with the plight of people who are disabled because of chronic illness, or are caregivers to someone living with chronic illness. Many people live with debilitating and/or gradually worsening physical symptoms caused by a variety of medical conditions that often make them unable to work full time, engage in social activities, or sometimes leave their homes or even their beds. Physical illness is often accompanied by emotional distress from living with difficult symptoms, chronic pain, fatigue, uncertainty about the future and erosion of social connections and intimate relationships. People living with these circumstances for a long time may experience gradual disappearing from society and often feel “invisible”. If that has been your experience, I am here to provide support and advocacy for your journey towards regaining your health. Additionally, as a first generation immigrant from the former Soviet Union I understand the challenges of acculturation, loss of home, and the legacy of transgenerational trauma that many first generation immigrants have to face adjusting to life in the USA, and the long lasting effects of this significant life transition. I love helping people develop resilience and discover ways to live fulfilling lives no matter their history or current circumstances. Foundation of my work is in the warmth of human connection and respect I have for my clients, their lives, experience and wisdom. I offer support and practical tools to deal with stress, overwhelm, anxiety, grief, loss, depression, anger, and difficulties with relationships. My goal is for us together to discover what what works for you and to support you in using this knowledge and any new skills you learn in the course of our work together in your life going forward.

Psychologist Felicia Ponce providing different types of therapy in Simi Valley

Felicia Ponce

Clinician
License Type(s): MS,LMFT
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years offering treatment

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California, working in the field since I received my Master’s degree in 2010. I worked for a private non-profit clinic with children (0-18) and their families for five years. I then worked for a high school district providing educationally related mental health services for four years before beginning the journey of practicing independently. I have experience providing treatment for a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief, relational issues, parenting, trauma, abuse, and risk management. I also have experience teaching as an adjunct lecturer in undergraduate and graduate psychology programs at a California State University. The desire for human connection and abnormal psychology have fascinated me since I was a teenager, which resulted in my choice to become a therapist. Each work environment has provided me with knowledge and experience, but also with the honor of being present for clients at their most vulnerable and brave moments. I like to create a sense of safety for clients and draw from a person-centered approach in sessions. This means that I will remain curious about your experience and facilitate discussion which will lead you to discover that you have always held the key to unlock solutions. I also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems approach, and Solution Focused Therapy to guide treatment. Maintaining trauma-informed care is essential and I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). Every therapist is different. I tend to be somewhat laid back, as I believe clients are the experts on their lives and I want you to know the hour is yours. We will work together as a team to collaborate on treatment goals, addressing challenges, and resolving issues. I believe everyone has mental health. The severity and intensity it needs attention varies throughout our life span, just like most things. It takes courage to ask for help and I feel privileged to be in the position to provide you with support and guidance as you work towards feeling like the best version of yourself. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Patricia Lehr providing different types of therapy in Simi Valley

Patricia Lehr

Clinician
License Type(s): MSW M.Eds. LCSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Parenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
40 years offering treatment

I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California and the state of Washington. I earned my Master of Social Work Degree from Washington University in St. Louis, and my Masters of Education from University of Texas San Antonio. For the past thirty years I have worked in private practices, schools, juvenile courts and community health organizations doing therapy and mediation. I have worked with a wide variety of clients from children, young adults, families, and the elderly from diverse backgrounds. My specialties include, parenting issues individually or in groups, play therapy with children concerning friendships, grief and loss and autistic children's social needs. With teenagers ,and young adults our focus has been relationships, anger management ,and career choices, and with the elderly 65+ population their issues of loneliness and depression. I am a compassionate and experienced therapist using a combination of approaches. I work with my clients where they are, give them the space to explore and use their strengths and experiences in order to help them get to where they want to go. As we process together gaining an understanding of their struggle, they will simultaneously learn new tools and skills to foster healthy functioning self esteem and relationships. Given the present social isolation, people are looking for a secure place to reach out and find support. I am passionate about helping those in need. I can offer a supportive and nurturing environment enabling clients to work through their challenges. I respect your courage for making the choice to work with Better Help to seek better understanding.

Psychologist Tracy Ward providing different types of therapy in Simi Valley

Tracy Ward

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with over 30 years of professional work experience. I have over 10 years of providing direct mental health services. My areas of focus are relationship issues, trauma, abuse, coping with grief and loss, general motivation, addressing self-esteem concerns, and building confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.

Psychologist Tracy Pierre providing different types of therapy in Simi Valley

Tracy Pierre

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in assisting clients with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and much more. In the face of life's challenges, our resilience is often tested. One thing for sure is that you do not have to face it all on your own. My goal as a therapist is to work collaboratively with you through a foundation of warmth, empathy, and trust in a non-judgmental, safe environment. Therapeutic sessions with me aim to offer valuable insights, instill a sense of hope, and equip you with the necessary tools to navigate life's challenges and thrive. Let’s start this journey together!

Psychologist Pauline Padrul providing different types of therapy in Simi Valley

Pauline Padrul

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California with over twenty years of professional work experience in behavioral health treatment. I also have a Master's degree in Public Health with a strong interest in behavioral epidemiology. I have worked with clients who typically present with stress and anxiety, eating disorders, motivation, self esteem issues & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths with which to overcome challenges and build resilience.

Psychologist Nimra Gardley providing different types of therapy in Simi Valley

Nimra Gardley

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, addiction, & depression. 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.

Psychologist Dr. Todd McGinnis providing different types of therapy in Simi Valley

Dr. Todd McGinnis

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAnger managementBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
17 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, bipolar disorder, & depression. 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. "Take back your mind"

Psychologist Michelle Pliska providing different types of therapy in Simi Valley

Michelle Pliska

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years offering treatment

It takes courage to reach out for help. Whether you are experiencing depression, life stressors, or just need someone to listen, I am honored to be trusted with your story. I am licensed in South Dakota with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, coping with grief and loss, & depression, and much more. My experience includes work in both clinical mental health and educational settings, including middle and high schools and college. I have a background in juvenile justice systems as well. I offer traditional talk therapy and am registered as a play therapist. Our therapy sessions could include music, art, or other creative expressions to help enhance healing. When you choose to engage in counseling with me, I provide a supportive environment for growth and healing. You will receive unconditional positive regard, safety, and confidentiality. We will do good and meaningful work together to move your life in the direction you want to go. 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.

Psychologist John Claros providing different types of therapy in Simi Valley

John Claros

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
14 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.

Find a therapist serving clients in California

What types of therapists are available to clients in Simi Valley?

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Simi Valley that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), therapeutic talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.

Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform

Mental health therapists in Simi Valley available through BetterHelp are accredited as psychologists to help individuals and couples. Simi Valley therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Simi Valley therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Simi Valley region and in the state of California.

How can a therapist help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want?

Therapists in Simi Valley can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Simi Valley may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 

Is it better to find a mental health counselor or therapist in Simi Valley offering online therapy or in person?

Studies show online therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling. Online therapy with licensed counselors is often more affordable, with BetterHelp pricing ranging from $65-$100 weekly, while in person therapy can cost up to $200 per session.

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