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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Negin Didehbani

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
9 years of experience

Hello! My name is Negin and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT). I have over eight years of experience in working with mental health and substance use concerns. I have worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings including: crisis facilities, residential facilities, non-profit organizations, correctional facilities and outpatient behavioral health centers. I work with clients to address their specific needs and identified goals. I understand that each client's personal journey is unique, therefore, my approach is tailored to fit each individual’s particular needs. I have a passion for emotional healing that improves relationships and the overall quality of daily experiences for each individual and family. My therapy style is person centered and supportive yet direct. I do my best to guide my clients into gaining insight into the causes of their problems. I am adept in working with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, dual- diagnosis, self-esteem, couples counseling, family therapy, and acute mental health disorders. My approach to therapy is to give clients the tools and skills they need to achieve their goals, personal growth, and find purpose and meaning. In my clinical work, I utilize a variety of interventions from a few different evidence based modalities to best address your needs. I particularly enjoy utilizing interventions from cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, solution focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. I look forward to working with you!

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Alina Ghitea

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am an individual and couples therapist licensed in California with over 7 years of experience as a counselor and mental health practitioner. As humans, I believe we live in an interdependent world in which diverse relationships within family, community and workplace frame our lives. I have worked with clients who have experienced struggles with anxiety, depression, relationship issues and career transitions. I partner with you as a reflective, healing presence in the midst of uncertainty and persistent change. My counseling style is warm and hopeful. I see each individual as unique and distinct and although life comes with challenges, I believe we don’t have to get stuck in the pain or despair. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral and emotion focused principles. I enjoy partnering with clients and creating a safe place to express difficult experiences along with inner-most thoughts and feelings. My passion is to see clients experience emotional and relational healing and succeed in life.

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John Johnson

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT,MA,LMT
Relationship issuesEating disordersSleeping disordersCoaching
25 years of experience

Hello. I appreciate you taking the time to get to know more about me. I have been on planet earth for a long time. I so appreciate having the opportunity to see the consciousness of mankind expand in many ways. And in many ways, it has stayed the same. I would like to think that my life experience has allowed me to experience a range of emotions, trials and tribulations that contributes to my ability to listen and empathize with your situation. The primary trait I bring to the table is that of the wounded healer. I grew up in an abusive atmosphere, and spent most of my life trying to "figure it out". I have experienced many different types of therapy, many of them cathartic and body oriented. I have always found a sense of home in my body. We now know that the heart and the gut both have more neurotransmitters than the brain. I also try to convey the power of Mother Earth to support you on your journey. You are never really alone. The mind is not always the best place to look for solutions, especially for body issues and trauma. Research has proven this to be the case. I have lived in many places, travelled the world, and look forward to spending my elder years sharing what i have learned. I love the West Coast. I grew up in New York City. while there I was a teacher, a dog trainer, a professional dancer, and I performed off off Broadway doing Primal Theatre. I performed for many years doing Playback Theater, a wonderful form where we played back audience member's stories for them. I have been an entrepreneur and business owner for decades, providing tools and information to help people live a happy, healthy, long life. I have coached and worked with many business owners and family businesses. I am confident that I can provide you with a compassionate ear, be a witness to your areas of concern, and help move you towards your goals and aspirations.

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Cynthia Rogers

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT,RDT-RegisteredDramaTherapist
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Marriage and Family Therapist Registered Drama Therapist What’s not working in your life right now? I know; it requires courage to take the first steps towards a change, to begin a journey toward a more fulfilling and happy life. I am here to support and empower you in that. We both know that your situation, your stressors, your concerns and the ways in which you learn are unique to you. And so will be your therapy. We will use modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy, drama therapy, mindfulness and self-compassion to move you toward creating positive change. Remember, you get to choose how to define yourself, to choose who you are, to choose how you want to show up in life. I will draw upon my many years of experience as a therapist, group facilitator and educator to help you find that path toward a more positive self-definition and the happiness you deserve. I look forward to hearing from you. And congratulations, you’ve just taken the first step...

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Kimberly Brooks

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker licensed in Illinois and California with over 15 years of experience counseling and life coaching. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, anger issues, career challenges, grief, and many other challenging issues. I have also helped many people who have experienced diverse types of traumas. My therapy style is warm and compassionate, but direct and honest. Interactive and empathetic. I will give you an opportunity to be transparent while providing safety and sensitivity. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and solution-focused approaches. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and encourage you. I look forward to working with you!

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John Vangerov

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

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with addictions, family relationships, coping with grief and loss, anxiety and depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.

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Michelle Ikeda

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with diverse experience in social services and healthcare fields. My expertise is in helping individuals/couples cope with differences in priorities, improve communication, and facilitate better understanding of each other. I have a variety of experiences working with children and families with issues related to child welfare system, court or non-court custody related issues, legal guardianship related issues and parenting issues. I am very passionate about helping individuals and couples with relationship and family dynamics issues. I am bilingual in English and Japanese. Growing up in Japan, I was taught to be modest and humble, and also to always be mindful of others. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My belief is highlighted when interacting with clients as I use a client-centered approach. Throughout the years of my helping profession, I have worked with clients from 0 to 110 years old of diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds! I have experiences providing intensive case management services to caregivers/families and elderly residents, particularly family members of dementia patients in convalescent facility settings. People with advanced age have a lot of life experience to share, and I am intrigued by their life stories. I also have extensive knowledge of supporting and guiding family members of children and adults with developmental disabilities, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder. My current regular availability is limited to weekends (Friday evening through Sunday) and some holidays, but I can work with weekday evenings on as needed basis for existing clients.

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Michelle Allee

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping individuals with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment and shame. I take a down to earth approach to our work together and see you as the expert on your own life. My role is to support you along your journey of personal development, and healing. 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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Linda Abdelbaki

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

I am licensed in California with 17 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.

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Melissa Filla

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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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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 94102 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

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