Solana Beach is a quiet coastal town, but even so everyone has their troubles. Even though the coastal city of Solana Beach is quiet and peaceful most of the time, people are bound to run into problems in their personal lives. You do not have to suffer through these troubles alone.

Counselors in the Solana Beach area are available to talk to you about your personal, mental or emotional troubles. They can provide support and coping skills to help you through any time in your life. Contact a therapist to get started.

This is Ezrimayr (Ezri) Chioma's avatar and link to their profile

Ezrimayr (Ezri) Chioma

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

Welcome!  In the 6-8 weeks that we will work together, It is my goal to create a safe, warm and inviting space where the whole of you, mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual, can make full use of the therapeutic intent of our time together.  We keep an eye toward your better self, to help you find what makes you well and at ease, and from there, support management of your psychological challenges.  A healthy core self has a powerful impact on the capacity of the mind and body to organically heal.  We will establish a platform from which you can organize your experiences and get perspective.  Then we will reduce your remaining challenges into bite sized pieces that can be processed and digested more easily, moving you toward greater life involvement and satisfaction.   The work of therapy doesn't have to be "hard work."  It can be an awakening, an adventure, it can be ground breaking, transformative, enlivening or sometimes even, playful work. I have always had a Humanistic perspective and I have been deeply influenced by Attachment Theory and Buddhist Philosophy, but in the end, I chose to study Somatic Counseling Psychology at JFKU in the SF/Bay Area.  Studying the body oriented models of psychology and relevant neuroscience that informs the study of the body (brain and nervous system) in association with psychological concerns and disorders, has helped me make sense of my observations in people with complex PTSD.  Of all the styles of therapy I have learned, I most appreciate Process Oriented Psychology, Bodynamics, Hakomi, Somatic Experiencing, and DBT.  They are all powerful interventions that can be used together successfully to your benefit.  My specialty is developmental trauma, also known as Complex PTSD, born of early traumas or chronic neglect type injury which often results in symptoms such as: general anxiety, intrusive memories, vigilance, specific fears, exhaustion, high sensitivity, compulsivity, health concerns, body/sexuality issues, anorexia, avoidance, control, chronic pain, autoimmune illnesses and altered states. Symptoms of Anxiety and (stubborn) Depression can also benefit from this type of approach, because they are also often the result of early mental health injuries that could not be addressed at the time they were received. Some other areas that may not be listed in Betterhelp's categories that also benefit from this treatment style are: stress management, self care issues, codependence, identity, dissociative symptoms, environmental and food allergies, boundaries, sobriety challenges, mental health hygiene, gender norms/roles, personal growth, individuation, etc. I hope to be talking to you soon - Ezri ... PS - I have a private practice outside of Betterhelp.com and so my availability is limited. If my available slots cannot accommodate you, you are welcome to wait for an open slot, contact me to inquiry about alternate options or seek an appointment with another therapist. I want what is best for you and will do what I can to support your healing. PSS - Somatic Psychotherapy works best in-person, but we have video sessions here! So I only see clients in video sessions. At this time, BH would like me to do therapy over Messenger, but I would be breaching my ethics if I did that! I will Message for logistics and resource information. I would never want a client to misunderstand my meaning and thus, will never try to do therapy through written word. I made this decision to protect you - I am happy to help create the time, space and safety to meet by video. Also, we can just meet briefly by phone or video for you to decide if you are comfortable working with me. PSSS - The rules that govern my license require me to refer a client out if I believe I am not the best fit for them as a therapist. I want the best for anyone I have contact with and if I believe you will be better served by a different therapist, I have to make the referral. Having said that, it is one of the hardest and most serious decisions I have to make as a therapist and I do not make it lightly. May you find your way! Warmest regards, Ezri

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Shaakira McMillon

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

Hello, Welcome! Thank you for choosing BetterHelp. You have taken an important step toward prioritizing your mental health and wellness. My name is Shaakira McMillon. I am a licensed therapist (LCSW) in the state of California. I have been a Social Worker for 7 years. I am passionate about helping others and creating a safe space for clients and families. Throughout my career, I have assisted clients coping with a wide variety of issues/concerns including but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, caregiver fatigue, burnout, family conflict, grief, intimacy issues, addiction, and work-life balance concerns. I utilize Motivational Interviewing, CBT, Solution- Focused Techniques, Art, and other therapeutic tools to help clients identify meaningful and achievable goals. I enjoy helping others and would greatly appreciate the opportunity to assist you. It would be a privilege to walk alongside you in healing journey. Please feel free to reach out to me regarding any questions/concerns/inquiries.

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Sarah Ochsner

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

I graduated with a Bachelors in Counseling/Psychology at William Jessup University and a Masters in Marriage and Family therapy at Western Seminary. I am licensed in the state of California as a Marriage and Family therapist as well as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I enjoy working with an individual who wants help. However, perhaps they feel stuck and they want someone to help them process things so that they can accomplish their goals. I use a client-centered approach with a warm and compassionate style. I believe that often times people know what they need but sometimes they also want support along the way to achieve their full potential. My hope is for my clients to feel happy and successful. I am excited to help you on your journey to lasting change. I have experience working with client's who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, and as well as working with the whole family unit. I am a busy mama of two. Therefore, I currently only have availability for sessions on nights and weekends. These sessions are approximately 30 minute in duration. I am licensed in California. Please note client's need to be in the state of CA during the session. Please know I value self care. I lead by example and take most holidays off to be with my family.

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Souphaphone "Sandy" Hagan

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

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Dr. Suzan McEnany

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
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, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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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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Elizabeth Davis

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoaching
10 years of experience

Welcome! I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Avital Wolf-Prusan

Offering therapy in CA
LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients in the Trans, LGBTQIA, Poly/multi/ENM, Kink, and Sex Worker communities with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. 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. As a therapist I offer a safe space and open ears for those looking for non-judgmental psychological support. I believe that psychotherapy can be a very helpful tool when exploring yourself and exploring yourself in relationships with others. Daily stressors and life transitions can be distracting and frustrating to handle, but that with self-care and support together we can work towards decreasing these unwanted thoughts and behaviors to make a change for the better. I maintain a safe space for all race, faith, gender, and sexuality identities, as well as work with people exploring these topics.

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Kenneth Breniman

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
19 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 19 years of clinical work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with 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 do hope can co-create a brave space for your to support you along your life journey. A growing number of researchers and healthcare professionals agree: the body, mind, and spirit are not separate, but rather parts of an interconnected whole. While I’ve been a licensed clinical social worker since 2005, I’ve come to see that traditional talk therapy can only get a person so far. Likewise, while I respect the DSM, I believe that diagnoses can be somewhat limiting for those looking to do deep, spiritual inner work and explore the big existential questions of their lives. Your pain makes sense. Rather than label you with a diagnosis, my goal is to help you understand how your past may have contributed to your current suffering and give you the space to heal from your pain and move forward. As a lifelong learner, I’ve spent the last two decades exploring the intersection of psychology, yoga, sound healing, death studies, and psychedelic integration. My sessions with clients typically include a few, if not all of these modalities.

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This is Pak Poon's avatar and link to their profile

Pak Poon

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

I am licensed in California and Texas with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 Solana Beach

Finding the best therapist close by in Solana Beach 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 Solana Beach. 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 Solana Beach, 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 Solana Beach 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 Solana Beach 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 Solana Beach, 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 Solana Beach area can be found below:

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

Solana Beach 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 Solana Beach.

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

92014, 92075

Popular cities near Solana Beach, CA

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