Your mind can feel like a complex piece of technology. When it’s going through a problem, you may feel like you don't have the resources to fix it. You're just a layman, after all. Who can help? A counselor based in Santa Clara can help you fix your mind by troubleshooting it and looking for the best possible solution. 

Santa Clara is known for being smack dab in the center of Silicon Valley, the tech capital of the US. Strong minds are needed for our technology to run, but who helps run the strong minds? The counselors of Santa Clara, of course. 

This is Ellie Trotta's avatar and link to their profile

Ellie Trotta

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with six years of experience helping clients with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, OCD, self-esteem issues, addictions, trauma, geriatric issues, career challenges, and chronic mental illness. I also have experience helping clients with trauma due to physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, as well as individuals who "feel stuck" due to emotional turmoil or relationship issues resulting from childhood abuse or abandonment. I graduated with my Master of Arts degree in psychology in 2016 and am currently a PsyD candidate in clinical psychology. I view the therapist-client relationship as something that is highly sacred and treat my clients with respect, sensitivity, and unconditional positive regard. I believe validation and empathy are necessary parts of the therapeutic process and I treat clients with a warm and compassionate approach. My therapeutic approach also includes DBT, CBT, ACT, experiential, client-centered psychodynamic, mindfulness, narrative, inner child work, solution-focused, and humanistic techniques, specifically tailored to the needs of my client. I also help empower my clients to be experts of their own lives; I am the tour guide but this is your therapeutic journey and I will be respectful of working at a pace that is comfortable for you. It takes courage to take these first steps in your therapeutic journey and I want to congratulate you for your decision to prioritize yourself in order to obtain a happier and more fulfilled life. I look forward to working with you. LPCC license 6558 listed as Elishka Trotta

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Rachel Konecki

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hi there, and welcome! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California. I have 10 years experience in counseling individuals, families, couples, and facilitating group therapy. My experience covers a variety of issues including depression and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, loneliness and isolation, grief and loss, issues of aging and older adulthood, and I have helped many people struggling with acute mental illness. I approach each of my clients with sincere curiosity about their life experiences and I have compassion and respect for the courage it takes to be vulnerable in seeking help and personal growth. Building a relationship of trust is important to me and I believe it’s crucial to my clients’ progress. While I tailor my methods to the needs of each unique client, I draw from my experience and training in cognitive-behavioral, client-centered and solution-focused therapies. Taking that first step toward personal growth, improving relationships, and seeking help can be difficult but so rewarding. I would be honored to walk along side you and help in your journey. I look forward to working with you!

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Eleana Coll

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
7 years of experience

Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, immigration, and trauma issues, changes in your life, or with your family? I am a bilingual/bicultural Spanish-speaking Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist with many years of experience working with children, adults, adolescents, and families who have experienced trauma, abuse, crime victimization, and immigration/acculturation issues. My therapeutic approach is to create a positive, humanistic relationship and environment to help you process and resolve those difficulties and strive for balance in your life. I use Humanistic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with Mindfulness Techniques. My experience includes providing culturally appropriate individual, couples, and group therapy to the Latino population dealing with symptoms of depression, anxiety, addiction disorder, immigration, trauma, and acculturation issues. I am an immigrant who has encountered immigration and acculturation issues as well. I am very motivated to work with you and your family with respect and empathy to help you build and create strategies to support you and your family to have an emotionally healthy life. I look forward to working with you!

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CLAUDIA ULWELLING

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hello, My name is Claudia. A little about me: I graduated in 2013 with a masters degree in psychology and am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with children, adults and families who have decided therapy could be a source of support. I emphasize the word DECIDE because therapy will work best when -you're ready- for reflection, compromise and, when applicable, open for change. My approach to therapy is strength-based, solution focused and client-centered. Each person's story is unique; therefore, I use multiple treatment modalities to meet each individual's needs. I work collaboratively with clients throughout their counseling process and journey to support them in their healing. Thank you for taking the first step in your healing, and I hope to meet you soon.

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Melinna Perez

Offering therapy in CA
License: MMFT,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersDepression
10 years of experience

Hi, I’m Melinna! Before telling you about me, let me commend you for taking this courageous step in seeking support through therapy as an avenue towards a healthier lifestyle. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in California with over 10 years of experience working therapeutically with children, teens, adults, couples, families, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community. I earned my Master of Marriage and Family Therapy degree from USC in 2016 and Bachelor of Psychology degree and Bachelor of English degree from Mount St. Mary’s University in 2013. I have experience conducting individual and group therapy, in-office and online, both residential and outpatient settings with clients presenting with depression, anxiety, relationship and parenting issues, eating disorders, teen concerns, body dysmorphia, and a wide range of challenges including insomnia, addiction, trauma, abuse, bipolar, as well as personal growth, adjustment issues, and crisis. My therapeutic approach varies depending on the client and their needs. Some of these approaches include person-centered therapy, holistic therapy, mindfulness therapy, humanistic therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectic behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. I mostly tend to draw from the person-centered approach, which means that I make consistent efforts to meet each client "where they are" and to serve as a catalyst to each individual who is progressing through their unique process of self-discovery and self-identification. I recognize that seeking counseling is not an easy decision. It is my intention to provide clients with a judgment-free space and I encourage clients to be themselves each session and to express emotions and thoughts freely. I would be honored to walk this journey with you. Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy music, sports, reading, cooking, spending time with my family and pets, meditating, and going to the beach. I look forward to meeting and working with you!

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Michelle Clisby

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, 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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Cheri Atkinson

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
40 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 40 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, as well as depression. My specialty has been in the area of working with children, parents and adults, who are dealing with disabilities, chronic illness, and medical, physical and emotional changes, following accidents, and life changing events. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment, and I work to help my clients, develop effective emotional coping skills, to deal with the challenges, that they are experiencing in their lives. My therapeutic approach is geared to the needs of my clients. 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 this journey.

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Marianna Jakucska

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming your challenges or even to grow with them. 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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Fern July

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsLGBTDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, depression, & 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. 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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Walter Curtis

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

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

How to find counseling in Santa Clara

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara, 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 Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara 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 95051 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 Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara, 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.

Santa Clara has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Santa Clara.

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

95050, 95051, 95052, 95053, 95054, 95055, 95056

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