If you’re looking for a therapist in San Diego, CA, BetterHelp can help you find a licensed, vetted professional with experience in behavioral medicine or psychotherapy. Regardless of the reason you are seeking the support of a therapist, there is a vast community of qualified professionals in San Diego County. 

When you sign up for BetterHelp, you can be matched with a therapist from a diverse group of mental health professionals experienced in various approaches, including dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or interpersonal therapy. Whether you need help navigating trauma, coping with an underlying mental health condition, or focusing on your own well being and self care, talk to a San Diego-based therapist to see how they can help you.

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

Lisa Wyatt

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

If you're here, it's likely because you're feeling confused or torn up about how to handle some part of your life, and it's affecting you in a way you wish it wasn't. I want to help you get past that, and get to a place where you're feeling more confident about your ability to manage the difficult situations you come across, whether it's with your family, in your relationships, or at work. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, and I've practiced therapy for over fifteen years. During that time, I've worked with people dealing with the stresses and anxieties of life, parents experiencing difficulties with their children, people struggling with addiction in either themselves or loved ones, survivors of trauma and abuse, and even fellow workers in the helping professions who are facing burnout. In working with clients, the number one thing I like to help them see is that it's normal to react to what is happening around you. It's human nature to have an emotional response to events in your life. What comes after that emotional response is often what people want to change, and where I come in. I can offer you a neutral opinion on the situation you are facing, and then work with you to find a solution that is realistic for your life. What works for you may not be what works for others, and that's okay. I use a Person-Centered approach overall, which means you set the tone for all of our interactions. I also like to use Strength-based techniques, which focuses on what you are doing well already and builds on it; Cognitive-Behavioral techniques, which looks at how our thoughts influence our behaviors; and Gestalt techniques, which allow us to look at your difficulties from different perspectives. I use an assortment of techniques from other approaches as well. I will always do my best to individualize my work to your specific needs, and empower you to make the changes you want to see in your life. You've already made one in reaching out for help, and I look forward to working with you.

Get started View profile
This is Justin Womer's avatar and link to their profile

Justin Womer

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW,MSW,LAADC-CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
15 years of experience

It is not success that builds us, but how we handle adversity that creates character. Hello! I am a Clinical Social Worker, licensed in California with approximately 15 years of experience in Chemical Dependency, Addictions and psychotherapy. In all that time I have met numerous people walking different paths and living different experiences in life. There is no one size fits all in therapy, each of us is an individual, worthy of the dignity and respect that comes with our own lived story. I utilize a strengths-based approach in a non-judgmental and safe environment. I describe my technique as Rogerian and Client focused. I utilize Cognitive-Behavorial Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment approaches. I look forward to hearing from you. Come, let us walk the path together for now.

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Priscilla Sobremonte's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Priscilla Sobremonte

Offering therapy in CA
License: Msw,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
24 years of experience

I served in the United States Air Force for 11 years. Graduated with MSW became a LCSW began working with severely emotionally disturbed children. Continued to work with a county mental health department with an agreement with juvenile justice. In this capacity worked with children, adolescence, families, and adolescents who were placed in juvenile hall. Worked in the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation as a Psychiatric Clinical Social Worker for many years with both male and female inmates, inpatient, outpatient and special units for chronic severe mental illness. Worked at Kaiser Permanente as a therapist with children and families, and crisis intake. Work experience with Veterans Health Care as a medical social worker supervisor and program coordinator. Began private practice in 2006 utilizing a client centered approach to determine treatment plan with the client (Cognitive Behavioral, Trauma Focused, Solution Focused, Relationship and family issues). Treatment approach is based on client's needs and preferences in a collaborate manner. *****PLEASE NOTE I am note able to write letters to employers for time off and or disability verification.****** AUTHOR Therapeutic Journaling: Making Sense of My Life, put together for clients who have struggled to make sense of life experiences this is based on Narrative Journaling.

Get started View profile
This is Jason Wright's avatar and link to their profile

Jason Wright

Offering therapy in CA
License: PhD,LPCC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
26 years of experience

I am a doctoral-level, licensed professional clinical counselor (CA), licensed professional counselor (VA), and marriage and family therapist (VA), with over 25 years of experience working with individuals experiencing a diverse range of challenges, from depression, anxiety, OCD and substance use; to PTSD and trauma-related issues (including psychogenic seizures and psychogenic movement disorders). I have published an article on my work with psychogenic seizures in Counseling Today, a publication of the American Counseling Association. My counseling style is person-centered, engaging, warm and collaborative. I believe the hallmark of a good therapist is to be a good listener first and foremost, and then to possess the knowledge and expertise needed to apply a broad range of holistic interventions tailored to the meet the client's specific needs and working style. I utilize cognitive-behavioral interventions, as well as existential/humanistic, solution-focused and psychodynamic approaches to help you reach your goals. I have the utmost respect for anyone who is willing to help themselves - a better tomorrow and brighter horizon awaits those who are up for the task, and I am here to help you as you move towards that brighter tomorrow. I look forward to working with you!

Get started View profile
This is Dawn Chandler's avatar and link to their profile

Dawn Chandler

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT,CDC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
35 years of experience

You can read more about my background, education, experience, and therapy approach by clicking on my name above our messages. You are one step closer to keeping that promise to yourself about gaining control of your unwanted patterns or behaviors. Every client has a story to tell and specific needs that bring them to therapy. Together we will develop and focus on understanding the forces that drive the need for those patterns or behaviors. Everyone has struggles in their life and everyone needs help along the way. I hold an MS in Counseling Psychology, Addiction Specialist, and CCTP, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I myself have 35 years of recovery and have 30 years working in the field of counseling, Trauma, and Addiction. I use a collective approach which means I draw from all forms of therapy. I match and adjust to my client's needs. My passion in life is to instill hope in my clients that they may reach their goals of change. I enjoy working with individuals, families, and groups that are motivated towards regaining balance and change in one's life. Together we will develop strategies and coping skills to help you reach emotional and physical freedom. I am compassionate about this work and feel I was called to do this work and to help others experience the world as an individual and in a collective way.

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Alisa Bash's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Alisa Bash

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

Are you going through a challenging period in your life? Do you struggle with anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, creative blocks, or insecurities? Do you wonder if there is more to life and how to find lasting peace and happiness, or just balance in your life? I like to work with my clients through a mind, body, spirit approach and believe in health and holistic wellness. I am a certified kundalini yoga instructor and sound healer, as well as a licensed therapist. I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Paul Fisher's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Paul Fisher

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
32 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, teen issues, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you're the expert of your story and that you have strengths that will assist you in working through your current issues. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy is a sign you desire to improve your life and relationships.

Get started View profile
This is Jarvis Jimenez's avatar and link to their profile

Jarvis Jimenez

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCompassion fatigue
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, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & 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. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Aqua Stefano's avatar and link to their profile

Aqua Stefano

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Nancy Salvatierra's avatar and link to their profile

Nancy Salvatierra

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience working with first generation Latinx clients that are dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.

Get started View profile

How to find counseling in San Diego

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed San Diego 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 Diego 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 Diego 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 Diego, 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 Diego 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 Diego 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 Diego 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 Diego 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 Diego 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 92124 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 Diego 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 Diego 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 Diego, 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 Diego 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 Diego.

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

92014, 92025, 92027, 92037, 92038, 92039, 92071, 92072, 92092, 92093, 92101, 92102, 92103, 92104, 92105, 92106, 92107, 92108, 92109, 92110, 92111, 92112, 92113, 92114, 92115, 92116, 92117, 92119, 92120, 92121, 92122, 92123, 92124, 92126, 92127, 92128, 92129, 92130, 92131, 92132, 92134, 92137, 92138, 92139, 92140, 92142, 92143, 92145, 92147, 92149, 92150, 92152, 92153, 92154, 92158, 92159, 92160, 92161, 92163, 92165, 92166, 92167, 92168, 92169, 92170, 92171, 92172, 92173, 92174, 92175, 92176, 92177, 92179, 92182, 92186, 92187, 92190, 92191, 92192, 92193, 92195, 92196, 92197, 92198, 92199

Popular cities near San Diego, CA

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