If you’re looking for a therapist in San Diego, CA, BetterHelp can help you find a licensed, vetted professional with experience in behavioral medicine or psychotherapy. Regardless of the reason you are seeking the support of a therapist, there is a vast community of qualified professionals in San Diego County. 

When you sign up for BetterHelp, you can be matched with a therapist from a diverse group of mental health professionals experienced in various approaches, including dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or interpersonal therapy. Whether you need help navigating trauma, coping with an underlying mental health condition, or focusing on your own well being and self care, talk to a San Diego-based therapist to see how they can help you.

This is Katherine November's avatar and link to their profile

Katherine November

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience working as a Clinical Social Worker. I have assisted adults, children and families struggling with issues of depression, anxiety, parenting challenges, child abuse and trauma, low self-esteem and coping with life's ups and downs. I also have experience helping individuals and families cope with a new medical diagnosis, disability or loss. My goal is to empower you with the skills you need to cope with life's challenges. I am empathic and caring and treat everyone with dignity and respect. I want to understand your perspective, in order to fully assist you. You are the expert in your life. We will develop goals and work together to achieve them. My approach is a combination of Cognitive-Behavior therapy, problem-solving therapy and a humanistic approach. I also utilize relaxation and mindfulness techniques. Reaching out for help is a huge step and takes a lot of courage. I look forward to supporting you.

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This is Annette Weathington's avatar and link to their profile

Annette Weathington

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
20 years of experience

A licensed psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience I have worked in a number of settings including hospitals, schools, courts, clinics and agencies. Nonjudgmental and empathic therapeutic approaches are used to support you dealing with a variety of social, emotional and environmental challenges. My area of practice is primarily with adults. I help you with career concerns, trauma, anger management, domestic violence, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, and bereavement counseling to name a few. I use a combination of methods and techniques consistent with my level of training and expertise. Mood disorders such as depression, adjustment and anxiety disorders are among my areas of specialization.

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This is Tracey Manning's avatar and link to their profile

Tracey Manning

Offering therapy in CA
License: M.A., LPC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
13 years of experience

Hello! My name is Tracey and I am a License Professional Counselor with a Master's of Art in Community Counseling. During the past 11 years, I’ve worked with many populations including abused and neglect youth, couples and families, as well as active duty service members and veterans. Over the years, I’ve also worked with hundreds of individuals to resolve concerns related to anxiety, depression, suicidality, varies forms of trauma, grief and loss, problematic sexual behavior in children and youth, domestic and family violence, and relationship and marital concerns. My therapeutic approach is client-centered in that I believe my client’s needs matter and that my client is the authority in their own lives and in our sessions. I believe my role in the therapeutic relationship is to assist my client through the development of self-awareness and skill-building. I facilitate this effort by seeking to deeply understand and quickly identify the unmet needs, intentions and motivations behind my client’s problematic behaviors or presenting issues. I am eclectic in my use of treatment modalities as I see the merits and benefits of many different styles and approaches, however I specialized in trauma-informed therapies such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). By reading this page you have shown that you are ready and willing to take action towards creating the experiences you desire. So, congratulations on taking steps toward your healing and growth! I look forward to working with you soon.

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This is Mary Frances Hudson's avatar and link to their profile

Mary Frances Hudson

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Indiana with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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.

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This is Brooke Wahlund's avatar and link to their profile

Brooke Wahlund

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. My goal is to provide my clients with a safe, non-judgemental space to process their emotions, increase self-awareness, and build upon their strengths, allowing them to become the very best versions of themselves. I provide therapy from a humanistic, interpersonal perspective. I understand that beginning therapy can feel overwhelming. It is my hope that, by building a positive relationship with my clients in the initial phases of therapy, they will feel an increased level of safety throughout the process. It is my opinion that establishing safety and building connection are the first steps on any healing journey. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, building motivation and self esteem & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming the things that challenge you. I look forward to supporting you on this journey.

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This is Fred Lombardo's avatar and link to their profile

Fred Lombardo

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
35 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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 Bethanie Schmoeller's avatar and link to their profile

Bethanie Schmoeller

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
23 years of experience

If you are challenged by life stress, anxiety, depression, past trauma, or relationship issues, and looking for an experienced psychotherapist, I am here to help. With over 23 years of experience, my therapeutic approach is a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (here and now) psychodynamic (past experiences) and Positive Psychology. I am committed to helping you improve your health and well-being while providing fresh, positive coping skills to guide you to reducing your distress and suffering.​ We will identify your strengths that will get you through the challenges of life in today's environment. I will work with you to create an open and safe place where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.

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This is Dr. Christopher Padalinski's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Christopher Padalinski

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am a licensed psychologist in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with a vast array of issues: general and specific stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse (both historical and current or recent), motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and depression. I’m well versed in standard cognitive and behavioral therapy strategies but pride myself in my humanistic and existential focus and approach to life, life’s problems, and growth. I of course believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I applaud you taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life, as it takes genuine courage. I am honored to be a part of your process and I’m here to support you in that process.

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This is Sean Johnson's avatar and link to their profile

Sean Johnson

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Vermont with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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. 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 Juho Kim's avatar and link to their profile

Juho Kim

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
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, anger management, 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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How to find counseling in San Diego

Finding the best therapist close by in San Diego can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in San Diego. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in San Diego, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in San Diego or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater San Diego area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of San Diego, elsewhere in San Diego, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the San Diego area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed San Diego therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in San Diego due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in San Diego may not take health insurance, some in the state of California may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in San Diego, California working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in San Diego above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in San Diego helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified San Diego therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a San Diego therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A San Diego therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in CA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 92112 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a San Diego counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A San Diego licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in San Diego, 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 Diego has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

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

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of San Diego.

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

92014, 92025, 92027, 92037, 92038, 92039, 92071, 92072, 92092, 92093, 92101, 92102, 92103, 92104, 92105, 92106, 92107, 92108, 92109, 92110, 92111, 92112, 92113, 92114, 92115, 92116, 92117, 92119, 92120, 92121, 92122, 92123, 92124, 92126, 92127, 92128, 92129, 92130, 92131, 92132, 92134, 92137, 92138, 92139, 92140, 92142, 92143, 92145, 92147, 92149, 92150, 92152, 92153, 92154, 92158, 92159, 92160, 92161, 92163, 92165, 92166, 92167, 92168, 92169, 92170, 92171, 92172, 92173, 92174, 92175, 92176, 92177, 92179, 92182, 92186, 92187, 92190, 92191, 92192, 92193, 92195, 92196, 92197, 92198, 92199

Popular cities near San Diego, CA

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