Depression can make you feel tired all the time, sad for no obvious reason, and can even cause confusion and memory loss. It can also affect your sleep and eating patterns. Luckily, the City of Millbrae has several extraordinary therapists in the area who are trained in diagnosing and treating depression, among other mental health issues. 

Millbrae was named for its rolling hills and beautiful views of the San Francisco Bay, which bring tourists and residents hours of spectacular activities like hiking, fishing, running, swimming, and boating. However, when you have depression or another mental health disorder, it can be difficult to find fun in anything. Consider speaking to a Millbrae area counselor about getting some treatment right away.

This is Amelia  (Amy) Benedict's avatar and link to their profile

Amelia (Amy) Benedict

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issues
11 years of experience

"Falling down is a part of life, getting back up is living." - anonymous We all fall down from time to time. It takes courage to seek help and support during those times when we have difficulty getting back up. I commend you for taking the first step. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California. I have a Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology and have been working in this field for over 12 years. I initially made this career choice because I wanted to learn how to help myself and my family. I discovered I had a real passion and talent for connecting with and understanding others. I am currently working with military service members and their families. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, anger management, communication difficulties and parenting. I also have experience working with trauma and abuse. My counseling style is very warm and empathetic. I believe in treating everyone with respect and being non-judgmental. I utilize a combination of cognitive behavioral, humanistic and psychodynamic modalities, with a focus on unconditional positive regard. I will work with you to identify your strengths and tailor treatment to meet your specific needs.

This is Adrina Wilson's avatar and link to their profile

Adrina Wilson

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT 107939
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my mission is to light up the path to healing for individuals and adolescents, much like I used to light up stages with special effects in my previous life in theater. Growing up in Las Vegas and transitioning from designing lights for theaters and cruise ships to focusing on LGBTQIA+-based psychology, I’ve always been drawn to helping others shine. I have EMDR trained and have worked primarily in community mental health and higher levels of care that have afforded training and expertise in evidenced based practices such as CBT and DBT. Whether you’re facing personal struggles or looking for support, I will bring creativity and compassion to each session, aiming to make every therapy experience unique to you.

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

Annette Malijen

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping 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 stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Jerome Hoffman's avatar and link to their profile

Jerome Hoffman

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

As a therapist whose been seeing clients for over 20 years in a variety of settings, I feel that I can be helpful in the majority of circumstances you might find yourself in. I tend to work from a Cognitive Behavioral Framework (which basically means to bring one's thoughts, actions and feelings together to challenge problem areas). I believe that providing a place of trust, safety and support is key to doing the hard work. I am also a person of Faith and if this is important to you please let me know. Otherwise, our work together will focus on the problem areas we identify. Trouble areas may include anxiety issues, sadness, loneliness, family dynamics, past traumas and/or abuse, or any other roadblocks preventing you from achieving your goals. I look forward to meeting you and assisting you in finding the solutions that will create a new future.

This is Lucinda Guarino's avatar and link to their profile

Lucinda Guarino

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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.

This is Carolyn Rivera's avatar and link to their profile

Carolyn Rivera

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I have worked in a wide variety of settings with very diverse populations including young at-risk children, teens, families in crisis and older adults. 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. I believe that every person deserves to be seen and heard. I have a very transparent approach and try to be relatable and down to earth. I like to mix my therapeutic approach with Motivational Interviewing, DBT and also real-world experiences to help you find the style that best suits you to meet you where you are at and helps you find comfort.

This is Gabrielle Gray's avatar and link to their profile

Gabrielle Gray

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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.

This is Dr. Virgina Hernandez's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Virgina Hernandez

Offering therapy in CA
License: PhD,LCSW,ACC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed clinical social worker and have over 40 years of professional social work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence and career difficulties. I also am an executive and leadership coach. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Lisa Espinoza's avatar and link to their profile

Lisa Espinoza

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Julie Laurent's avatar and link to their profile

Julie Laurent

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
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, life transitions, self esteem and confidence, & career difficulties. 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 and considering change can take courage and I am here to support!

How to find counseling in Millbrae

Finding the best therapist close by in Millbrae 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 Millbrae. 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 Millbrae, 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae, elsewhere in San Mateo, 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 Millbrae area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Millbrae 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae, 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae 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 94030 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae, 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.

Millbrae 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Millbrae.

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

94030

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist