In life, reaching the top of the hills of your life can be a challenge. Anxiety, depression, and other life problems can make it a tough task, especially if you have no ideas of where to go in your life. You need to create a plan, and a person who can help you do so is a counselor based in La Mesa. 

La Mesa’s motto is the “Jewel of the Hills.” You can find your own jewel by climbing to the top of a challenge, but it can be tough for you to do so. A counselor can help you, but you need to listen to them to accomplish your goals.

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Stephanie Lanza

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
8 years of experience

Hello! My name is Stephanie Lanza. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Southern California. I have over 8 years of experience counseling children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a wide range of concerns including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, ADHD, and family/relationship issues. I also have extensive experience working with adoptive and resource/foster parents and the unique issues they encounter. I take a client centered and strengths based approach to counseling, utilizing components of Cognitive Behavioral, Solutions Focused, and Family Systems therapies to help clients meet their goals. I look forward to working with you!

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Jennifer Glace

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 7 years of experience in my field, the past two years providing teletherapy. I have worked with clients with a range of concerns including relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, stress, anxiety, and issues surrounding the current pandemic. I believe that therapy should provide a safe place for growth and change. I strive to create a trusting and empathetic environment where I can help guide clients toward understanding and managing the stressors in their lives. My goal is to empower each individual I work with to realize that they have the capacity to create positive change. Finding a therapist you work well with is important in building a positive therapeutic relationship. The therapeutic modalities that I most often use are Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and solutions based therapy, however as my approach is eclectic, we can collaborate to find the therapeutic technique that is the best fit for you. I am looking forward to getting to know you and join with you on this part of your life's journey.

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Peter Jastermsky

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and hold active licenses in California, Pennsylvania, and North Dakota. I have more than 30 years of experience helping people in a variety of settings, from Employee Assistance (EAP) to Outpatient Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol. In addition to my counseling experience, I have been a clinical supervisor and trainer of therapists. I am also a Certified Grief Counseling Specialist. Congratulations for taking this brave first step to find support, and to make positive changes in your life! I offer individual counseling for adults, 21 and up, who live in California, Pennsylvania, or North Dakota. I have a supportive, conversational style. We will start wherever you “are” in your life. I see my role as a guide who will help you consider your choices, to examine the consequences of changing versus not changing behaviors or circumstances, to set meaningful goals, and to support your decisions. In uncertain, stressful times, it is easy to get overwhelmed and “stuck,” but I believe there is always “the one thing” a person can do to take meaningful action. While I agree that knowing “why” we behave in certain ways can be useful, I do feel that people seek out counseling to “move beyond.” I believe that YOU are the expert on you, and I will encourage you to take the next steps to improve your life.

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Gregory Harbaugh

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
17 years of experience

Hello and welcome! I know from experience that sometimes it takes a great deal of courage to take the step to contact a therapist. So, thank you for reading! I am a graduate of the University of Southern California (also the University of Michigan) with over fifteen years’ experience as a psychotherapist treating individuals, couples/partners, children/adolescents, families and groups. My clinical training was at Saban Community Clinic, treating a diverse array of patients with wide ranging conditions. I enjoyed the team approach at Saban, which included medical and psychiatric practitioners. I have been licensed and in private practice in Los Angeles, CA since 2017. I offer an individualized approach to therapy, beginning by meeting the client where he/she is in the moment according to the client's needs. The goal is for you to be able to express yourself, be comfortable and ultimately realize your human potential and be happy in your own skin. There are many ‘schools’ of therapy. Some useful approaches I have found have been: Person-Centered Therapy: a non-directive, collaborative approach, often called ‘guided discovery’ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): the relationship between emotions, thoughts and behaviors Solution Focused Brief Therapy: focusing on client strengths, skills and goals Mindfulness Training: being fully present in the moment without judgment Psychodynamic/Self-Psychology: self-identity; developing a healthy understanding of who you are These are brief descriptions. If there is something of interest you know about please let me know and we can discuss. My profession requires 36 hours of continuing education for license renewal every two years. Some common areas of treatment include: • Depression and Anxiety (which often occur together) • Obsessions, Compulsions, Phobias (which tend to have an anxiety basis) • Personality Disorders • Mood Disorders • Trauma and Abuse Survivors; Support and Recovery • Communication/Intimacy; Relationships; Attachment • Living an Authentic Life; Self; Identity • Parenting Support • Grief Counseling • Work and Career issues, Stress Management • Addiction & Recovery (Assessment and Referral) • Eating Disorders (Assessment and Referral) • Cultural Diversity Issues • Sports and Creative Arts Performance Among my skills is complex differential diagnosis. Since many symptoms overlap more than one diagnostic category (and therefore guide treatment planning), a deeper understanding of the client is important. Treatment doesn’t necessarily have to take a long time. CBT and Mindfulness may provide benefits very quickly. If a condition is beyond my scope of practice I will provide guidance and appropriate referrals. In addition to being a psychotherapist, I have substantial interests in the creative arts and am a songwriter and musician myself. I am committed to meeting the client where he/she is in the moment and collaborating on goals to meet his/her needs, provide support and help the client address whatever challenges he/she might face. My approach is to provide warmth, empathy and understanding to help the individual build on his/her strengths and attain the personal growth he/she is committed to accomplishing. Best of luck in your life journey. I look forward to meeting you!

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Mona Rich

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementADHD
25 years of experience

Hello and welcome to you all. I know how difficult it can be to take the first step and ask for help. I am here to assist you in your search for well-being. Allow me to tell you a bit about myself professionally. I have been a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in the state of California since1996. Besides my training in the family system, I have additional training in cognitive therapy, interpersonal neurobiology, depth psychology, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. I am also a practitioner and facilitator of mindfulness. I am a curious person and I love to learn in relationships. My cornerstone in our sessions will be Dr. Dan Siegel’s triangle of well being: Mind, Brain and Relationship. I like to listen well to your emotional needs and gently guide your/our journey of self discovery. I see the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative effort of our minds, and I am grateful for the privilege you may grant me of being your therapist.

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John Vangerov

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsFamily conflictsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with addictions, family relationships, coping with grief and loss, anxiety and 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 and empower you in that journey.

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Ellen Golding

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefEating disordersDepression
17 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, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & eating disorders. 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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Mary Holtom

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

Dr. Mary Holtom is a licensed clinical psychologist in California. Dr. Holtom received her graduate degree from Rosemead School of Psychology and her undergraduate degree from Azusa Pacific University. Dr. Holtom’s training and experience has been in a variety of settings, including: nonprofit, inpatient rehab center, outpatient community mental health centers, a university counseling center, and online therapy. Given her background, she has experience in assisting adults from various backgrounds in gaining knowledge about their mental health and moving forward towards their goals in life. Dr. Holtom believes that the relationship between client and therapist is important and allows for a collaborative process in assisting the patient achieve a better quality of life. With the assistance of the therapist, clients are capable of finding solutions and not continuing their same patterns that are no longer effective. Dr. Holtom’s approach to therapy utilizes Mindfulness Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, balancing between a present-moment focus and gaining insight on one’s past in order to move forward into the future. Additionally, Dr. Holtom also uses Acceptance and Commitment therapy techniques to assist patients in making effective life changes. License: PSY31334

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Kyla Campbell

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
4 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, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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This is Aroosha Sanchez's avatar and link to their profile

Aroosha Sanchez

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementADHD
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parent-child bonding & anger management. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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How to find counseling in La Mesa

Finding the best therapist close by in La Mesa 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 La Mesa. 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 La Mesa, 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa, 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 La Mesa area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed La Mesa 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa, 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa 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 91941 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa 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 La Mesa, 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.

La Mesa 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 La Mesa.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in La Mesa:

91941, 91942, 91943, 91944

Popular cities near La Mesa, CA

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