This is Richard Clark's avatar and link to their profile

Richard Clark

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I earned my BA in Psychology from California State University, Long Beach and my MA in Counseling Psychology from National University, San Diego. I have been counseling individuals, couples, families, and children for over 20 years in private practice, non-profit community organizations, hospitals, clinics, and schools. Having worked in a variety of diverse settings, I’ve gained valuable training and experience from many perspectives and incorporate this knowledge into guiding resolution for each unique client’s challenges. Specializing in Brief Solution Focused Therapy, I’m often able to help resolve client issues in relatively few sessions by setting clear, well defined outcomes and implementing strategic interventions designed for efficient and lasting change.

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This is Romana Cheang's avatar and link to their profile

Romana Cheang

Offering therapy in CA
License: M.S., LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

Aloha! I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the state of California. I was raised in Oahu, Hawaii and had been living in Southern California for the past 10 years. I completed my Master’s degree from Loma Linda University and I have over 8 years of experience working as a therapist. Previously, I worked in community mental health clinics, elementary & high school settings, and a residential treatment facility. I have experiences with adults, children & teens, and families. My areas of experience are: Stress & anxiety, depressive issues, adult relational problems, communication, and phase of life issues. I would describe my therapy style as strength-based, collaborative, insight-oriented, and use of humor with countless metaphors. With our therapy process, I would like to spend time exploring your life story so I can assist you in "untangling" and/or “fitting those odd puzzle pieces together." My goal is for clients to live a fulfilling life. I was taught that we each carry an “invisible backpack” packed with difficulties, hardships, and personal trauma in life. These growing difficulties result in a heavier backpack in which one day...become almost unbearable. As your therapist, I believe my role is to help unpack so you can rest those shoulders and practice training your “mental muscles.” Sometimes life doesn’t get easier, so you will learn to strengthen your emotional endurance. And your adventure continues.

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Dr. Capri Cruz

Offering therapy in CA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I knew I was called to be a mental health therapist when I was an abused and confused 11 years old foster child sitting in a therapist’s office myself. It was the very first time I ever felt safe. Since then I've gone on to receive my PhD in Mental Health Counseling and a degree in Hypnotherapy. I completed my internship at a women's residential substance abuse facility assisting women to increase their self-esteem, self-worth, self-image, process their trauma and grief, manage their anxiety and depression, and taught various life skills. I then went on to work in an out-patient substance abuse facility with clients struggling with addiction, trauma, rejection, comorbidity (two or more diagnoses i.e. anxiety, depression, bipolar, or substance abuse, etc), and feelings of worthlessness. I've also worked in conjunction with the Division of Family and Children Services to help families regain custody of their children, facilitate adoptions, and counsel children in foster homes and in group homes. I authored From Foster Care to FABULOUS: An Imperative Movement, Maximize Your Super Powers & 6 Steps to 6 Figures; co-authored Ripping Gripping Fear Out of Your Story, have several other e-books on Amazon as a result of my own life experiences, and completed rigorous research on the protective factors that evolved foster children into healthy and effective adults. Having grown up in the foster care system myself, I struggled with my own challenges ranging from being controlled by fear to overcoming abusive relationships and self-medicating. I believe it is in the transparency of my personal challenges and triumphs that I am solidified as an effective therapist, not solely by my PhD. As a mental health therapist, public speaker, and life coach (see client feedback at www.capricruz.com), I've assisted thousands of clients in achieving greater awareness of their mind, body, and spirit connection, assisted in identifying the root of their challenges in order to regain personal power through solidifying their desired identity, created action plans to self-correct and resolve inner-conflicts, and helped my clients to identify and achieve their life goals. My therapeutic approaches include, but are not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Narrative Therapy, Family Systems, Guided Imagery, Stress Reduction, Positive Psychology, and Neuro-Linguistic Programming. As a mental health therapist what I've learned is that my greatest gift to my clients is to be non-judgmental in my listening in order to help facilitate healing. I believe people want, and often need, to be heard, validated, cared for, accepted, and assisted with feedback. I believe my clients are the experts of their own lives; and I am their guide. Together we are a team. My job is to provide a safe and trusting environment that will help bring that awareness and confidence into their consciousness to empower their ability to meet their own needs.

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Mallerie Mulhall

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. I received my MSW in Clinical Social Work from NYU in 2010 and my BS in Psychology from the University of Florida in 2008. Over the years, I have worked with many different populations in a variety of settings, ranging from private practice, substance abuse treatment centers to schools. I specialize in working with clients dealing with obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety and panic, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, life transitions, substance abuse related difficulties, self-esteem problems, attachment-related issues, and/or interpersonal relationship difficulties. I am proficient in multiple evidenced-based interventions and I have significant experience working with adolescents, young adults, and families. My counseling approach is empathetic and interactive. I believe strongly in the importance of the therapeutic alliance and rapport between client and therapist. I draw heavily from psychodynamic and relationship-based counseling techniques, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Family Systems, and Motivational Interviewing. Seeking assistance in developing a happier and more fulfilling life takes courage and strength. When you are ready to take that first step, I am here to help and guide you. Looking forward to working with you!

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This is Melanie Reyes's avatar and link to their profile

Melanie Reyes

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT 92642
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
12 years of experience

Perhaps you are visiting today to obtain answers to confusion, peace in the torment, clarity from the chaos, healing from the pain. Maybe you just want someone to understand your pain. You might be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or hopeless. Whatever your reasoning may be, I am dedicated to help you achieve hope and healing. Thank you for taking the first step to work toward your personal healing journey. I am passionate about understanding, accepting, and empathyzing with my clients. I approach therapy holistically, which encompasses spirit, body, and mind. Through CBT, TFCBT, EMDR, Client-Centered Therapies, Mindfulness, Guided Imagery, Anger Management clients speak of being able to heal from traumatizing experiences, understand self-truths to increase self-esteem, utilize skills to flourish and to prosper in relationships, effectively create lasting growth and change in their lives. If you are looking for someone to walk along side with you in your path to wholeness, hope, and healing, it would be an honor to be a part of that positive change in your life. I look forward to working with you to achieve your healing goals. Please contact me for an individual, couples, family, adolescent, or child therapy consultation today. Melanie Reyes

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Amy Allen

Offering therapy in CA
License: Masters of Arts in conflict resolution ,Masters of Science in marriage and family therapy
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
13 years of experience

Hello, thank you for visiting my page. My name is Amy Allen, a licensed Marriage and Family therapist with over 15 years' experience in the Mental Health Field. I currently work with a diverse group of clients seeking assistance for depression, anxiety, homelessness, grief, loss parenting, life skills, as well as those looking to improve their lives by learning skills to navigate this ever-changing world. Change is difficult and I know, we need motivation and encouragement to help reach our goals and improve relationships. I graduated from California State University at Dominguez Hills with a Master of Arts in Behavioral Science and a concentration in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution and a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy and have been licensed since 2015. My passion is helping people improve their lives which I feel could be attributed to much of my own life experience, education and being able to identify with clients. My goal is to assist in providing real life solutions to current barriers to living your best life I have been trained in and utilize CBT, DBT, Motivational interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy and EMDR.

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This is Margaret Calvert's avatar and link to their profile

Margaret Calvert

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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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This is April Jones's avatar and link to their profile

April Jones

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesCareer difficulties
17 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Shaghayegh "Shani" Habibi's avatar and link to their profile

Shaghayegh "Shani" Habibi

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am a licensed professional with 13 years of experience in California. My expertise lies in assisting clients with stress and anxiety, relationship concerns, parenting challenges, as well as motivation, self-esteem, and confidence issues. My approach is grounded in treating every individual with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I am dedicated to customizing our dialogue and treatment strategy to address your distinct and personal requirements. Embarking on a journey towards a more fulfilling and joyful life takes courage, especially in taking those initial steps toward change. Rest assured, I am here to offer unwavering support and empowerment throughout your journey.

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This is Angela Polk's avatar and link to their profile

Angela Polk

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. 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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How to find counseling in Del Mar

Finding the best therapist close by in Del Mar 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 Del Mar. 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 Del Mar, 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar, 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 Del Mar area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar, 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 92014 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar, 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.

Del Mar 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 Del Mar.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Del Mar:

92014

Popular cities near Del Mar, CA

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