When it comes to finding a therapist, San Francisco, CA has more options than many other more rural areas, but independent practice practitioners in your PPO plan may not be what you need. And using out of network benefits on a licensed psychologist not in your network can get expensive in the city. That’s where online therapy with an online platform like BetterHelp can help. BetterHelp offers over 30,000 licensed professionals that provide online psychotherapy comparable to what you can get with in-person sessions. 

Online psychotherapy with BetterHelp can target any number of mental health challenges like unresolved trauma, social anxiety, stress management, and improving emotional intelligence. In addition, therapists are trained in a variety of specialties such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and emotionally focused therapy. To get started, you’ll fill out an online questionnaire that will match you with a licensed therapist that meets your wants and needs. If you don’t feel that you have a good rapport with your therapist, you can switch until you find your perfect match at no additional cost. 

With online therapy it can be easier to take that first step of seeking the help you need, whether you want to find treatment for a mental health condition like depression or anxiety, or have been meaning to work on self-actualization. If you are looking for any type of talk therapy in the San Francisco area, the licensed professional therapists at BetterHelp can get you started on your journey to better mental health and well-being.

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Candace Sebastian

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience working in the field of counseling and mental health. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, LGBT, and chronic mental illness. My counseling style is warm and patient. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines humanistic, interpersonal, and cognitive-behavioral counseling. I am also formally trained in EMDR. With the ups and downs of life, I understand that you are most likely here during a more challenging time. You may be experiencing loss of a relationship, struggling with addiction, loss of job, arguing with your partner, feeling lonely, struggling with family issues, feeling unworthy or not good enough. It takes courage to seek help during these times, and I am here to help you. I am glad that you are here and I am looking forward to working with you. ~ Candace, LCSW

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Michael Boretz

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepression
3 years of experience

I have been practicing as a therapist in California for 25 years, and am currently licensed as a clinical social worker. The bulk of my professional experience has been working with incarcerated men, and working with clients coping with anxiety, depression, and grief and loss. The services I provide do not include faith based practice, which means the advice I provide will never be based on any scripture, but based on sound clinical social work theory and practice. Our combined and shared life experiences, and the level of trust which you place in me as a support to you on a human level are the foundation upon which you will move in a direction of betterment of your choice. "Therapy ... Counseling," whatever you want to call it is frequently a philosophical exercise; your desire for change leading to questions leading to insights leading to positive change. As a professional, I stick to what I know. I offer my services based on our shared understanding of the difficulties you present to me. If the difficulties you face are more of a 'problem in living' as opposed to suffering diagnosed mental illness, or if the difficulties you are facing at this time are rooted in a difficulty coping with, or adjusting to a build up of stress in what has been an otherwise normal life course, the intervention or interventions we choose, we will design to fit your needs at this time. My career experience has afforded me the opportunity to work with clients who have faced among the most difficult life circumstances. I like to think that I bring my skills to you, rather than expect a set model of interventions will best suit your needs.

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Leonard Burns

Offering therapy in CA
License: M.A. LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
33 years of experience

I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California since 1990. My background includes a combination of family systems and psychodynamic approaches, seasoned with many years of experience. What I have come to understand over the years is that the bedrock of successful psychotherapy is a strong, honest relationship between therapist and client. Only upon this foundation of trust is change possible.     I have many years of experience assisting clients in recovering from complex PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, cancer survivorship, and finding peace with identity in a world that is often unkind to those whose lifestyles would not be described as traditional. I know from my personal journey that change is possible, while often difficult and terrifying. If you are ready to commit to the journey, I am here to be at your side along the rocky path.

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Renate Kohlmann

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
25 years of experience

Hello and Welcome! Congratulations on taking the first step towards feeling better! Whatever the issue or issues are you wish to work on, it takes courage to make that first move. My name is Renate Kohlmann, and I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 24 years. My approach is always client-centered and supportive. Because everyone's needs are different, I do incorporate different therapy styles into my approach as needed - psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral are two that come to mind. If you are interested in learning more and seeing if we are a good fit, please contact me! Specialties: Anxiety and Stress Depression Relationship Issues Family Conflict Intimacy Issues Coping with Life Issues Self Esteem Career Difficulties Addiction Disorders Chronic Illness

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Marta Herrera-White

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
18 years of experience

Hello and congratulations on making the first steps towards your healing and transformative journey! If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 18+ years of clinical experience. I am also a certified Interpersonal Psychotherapist (IPT) and Maternal Mental Health Certified (MMH-C). My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and mindfulness therapy. My therapy style is warm and interactive. 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. I have worked in several clinical settings including nonprofits, hospitals, and schools. I have experience with counseling couples, individuals both adults and youth. I also have experience working with mothers with high-risk pregnancies and postpartum issues, as well as pregnancy loss and pregnancy termination. I have received specialized training in maternal and infant health, as well as women's health and reproductive issues. My goal is to help you on your journey by providing a safe, authentic, non-biased and compassionate healing space with an individualized therapy experience. I look forward to working with you! Marta

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Melissa Willard

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with law enforcement, first responders and military. 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!

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Dr. George Solovjev

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyDepressionADHD
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, & concentration, memory and focus (ADHD). 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 have significant experience administering ADHD evaluation’s for the purpose of recommending medication evaluations, and school accommodations. I graduated from Rosemead School of Psychology, Biola University with my Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology and was a guest speaker on KWAVE on a show called "Spread a little love around" Coaching kids and teens in the game of life from a Biblical perspective.

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This is Leah Dean's avatar and link to their profile

Leah Dean

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
43 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, family conflicts, & depression, as well as divorce recovery, blended family issues, grief and loss., 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 Dina Mooney's avatar and link to their profile

Dina Mooney

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementSelf esteem
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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 Alicia Romero's avatar and link to their profile

Alicia Romero

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

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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. Trained/Informed in EMDR, Brainspotting, Gottman Method, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

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How to find counseling in San Francisco

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed San Francisco 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 Francisco 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 Francisco 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 Francisco, 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 Francisco 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 Francisco 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 Francisco 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 Francisco 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 Francisco 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 94121 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 Francisco 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 Francisco 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 Francisco, 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 Francisco 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 Francisco.

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

94102, 94103, 94104, 94105, 94107, 94108, 94109, 94110, 94111, 94112, 94114, 94115, 94116, 94117, 94118, 94119, 94120, 94121, 94122, 94123, 94124, 94125, 94126, 94127, 94129, 94130, 94131, 94132, 94133, 94134, 94137, 94139, 94140, 94141, 94142, 94143, 94144, 94145, 94146, 94147, 94151, 94158, 94159, 94160, 94161, 94163, 94164, 94172, 94177, 94188

Popular cities near San Francisco, CA

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