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 Laurie Nelson's avatar and link to their profile

Laurie Nelson

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LMFT ,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Hello there! I'm a licensed therapist (MFT) for over 10 years, and have a warm, engaging and growth oriented approach. I've helped clients who are immersed in DEPRESSION and ANXIETY as well as those in a higher functioning place that simply need help navigating a specific struggle with guided support .** I use approaches like DBT( Dialectical Behavior Therapy)mixed with cognitive behavioral and mindfulness strategies. I'm trained in Psychodynamic theory as well, and see the importance of knowing why you get stuck along with the need for concrete strategies to move forward.* I have extensive experience in treating all types of Depression as well as Generalized Anxiety, PTSD, Social Anxiety, ADHD, difficulty with Anger Management and Emotional Regulation. * I often help clients transform a harsh inner-critic into self acceptance, newfound confidence and increased capacity for joy. My goal is for you to gain strategies and insight that allow you to feel fully expressed, alive and authentic. I have specialized experience helping clients release the old stories and beliefs that keep them stuck in the status quo. By shining a light on what these are and where they come from, new possibilities and increased freedom of choice appear. I'll help you get unstuck , take small steps towards your goals and create momentum in the process! *I've also worked extensively to help clients improve all aspects of relationships, with a big focus on communication and learning how to say what you mean, ask for what you want and better hear the other person as well. Whether it's at work, with a partner or a child, you can learn how to bring up difficult topics with more ease and confidence. *As a therapist, I balance listening, supporting and giving you concrete strategies that are unique to your personality and situation. I'll challenge you with empathy and kindness when necessary and encourage you to move through fear and hesitation in order to move forward. I love helping clients explore the idea that life is happening FOR them and not TO them, which leads to feelings of empowerment vs victimization. * My clients come away with the skill of using what life brings as a lesson to be learned. Once the lesson is learned, the need for the situation to repeat is gone. This is freeing and leads to a trust in all that life brings us. When appropriate, I also incorporate guided visualization, mindfulness meditation and body awareness into the sessions. These can be powerful ways to bring clarity and unexpected answers to the most difficult things you face. I live in CA with my husband, 2 daughters, 2 dogs and a cat. I love hiking, painting and teach hip hop dance which I love! Being a parent gives me personal as well as professional experience that I utilize when helping clients deal with the inevitable challenges of being part of a family.

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This is Natalie Schaffer's avatar and link to their profile

Natalie Schaffer

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience

Welcome! It's not always easy to reach out for support when you need it but you've already taken a huge step for yourself.  My name is Natalie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles. I have worked in various service settings including public child welfare, mental health and community-based non-profit. I have worked with folks from a variety of backgrounds with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ issues and those who have experienced trauma and abuse. These challenges along with everyday stressors can make life feel overwhelming. I am here to support you along the way and to remind you that all of your emotions are valid; they can be managed to help you achieve greater peace and perspective.  I would describe my approach as interactive, strength-based, and compassionate with zero judgement. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, narrative therapy and motivational interviewing; however, I am flexible in drawing from various styles that work best for you. I also like to incorporate some mindfulness and art therapy techniques if it meets your unique needs.  I want you to get the most out of our time together and can be available in whatever manner you are most comfortable. I find that video sessions are a great way to get to know each other but I am also available to you via phone and messaging. My schedule is somewhat flexible but I have most of my availability evenings and weekends and I check messages regularly.  If you think I'm a good fit as your counselor, I would be honored to work with you! 

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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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Candice Campbell

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
15 years of experience

Hi, I'm Candice. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 20 years of professional work experience. My background includes helping clients with stress and anxiety, life transitions, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, grief work & anger management. I'm formally trained in Trauma-Focused Behavioral Cognitive Therapy, Aggression Replacement Training, Wraparound Facilitation, Peer Support Services and Childhood and Adolescence Disorders. Part of the journey is to discover the strengths and skills that will assist you in overcoming obstacles on your path. With courage and a goal for a more fulfilling and happier life, I'm here to support & empower you in that journey.

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This is Sonia Estival Vila's avatar and link to their profile

Sonia Estival Vila

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersDepressionCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Ohio with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients cope with addictions, trauma and abuse, sleeping disorders, & depression. I have experience working with Veterans, immigrants and survivors of domestic violence. 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 in seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Jill Katell

Offering therapy in CA
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & 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.

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This is Geraldo Gonzalez's avatar and link to their profile

Geraldo Gonzalez

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I help clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I also work with athletes who have experienced trauma and/or high stress. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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This is Sara Hernandez's avatar and link to their profile

Sara Hernandez

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySelf 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, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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This is Pamela Hooper's avatar and link to their profile

Pamela Hooper

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Idaho with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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 Melissa Dobson's avatar and link to their profile

Melissa Dobson

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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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 92161 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

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