Life can feel like a dance. When you're mentally prepared, you can dance across anything life throws at you, and end things off with grace. However, when you're mentally unwell, you may stumble, fall, and feel like everyone is throwing tomatoes at you. A counselor based in Encinitas can be the dance instructor you need. 

Encinitas is known for many things, including its ballet. Ballet dancing requires much training and precision, but it can be rewarding. This applies to life as well. If you need someone to help train you, a counselor can help you do just that. Speak to one today and see what you can do. 

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Cherie Felzer

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

Life is a journey of continually coming home to ourselves. Come home to yourself. to your soul. I have spent the last 20+ years working and playing with conscious personal growth, traversing pathways of dark and light, with 15+years of dance and movement meditation as my main spiritual practice. Throughout many years of traveling, I have learned so much from life, different cultures, and teachers of indigenous traditions, and finally, moved to the bay area in 2007 to pursue graduate studies in somatic counseling psychology, and complete licensure in Marriage and Family Therapy. Since moving to the bay area, I have deepened my relationships with movement, worked somatically with elders living with dementia, business and law students, women in recovery, war veterans, rites of passage with youth and in nature with children. It has been through these lenses that I learned the most about how to be with, accept, and move through stuckness, struggle, and transition. My personal experiences all inform me, offering a greater perspective, and are woven together with my training to create a truly unique practice for us to explore together the magic of the healing journey. I offer this wisdom and experience to you, from my own struggles, so that you know you don't have to do this alone. In a session, I will be your companion as we explore together the best way for you to move forward. I offer a calm, solid presence and reverence & joy for life, inviting and supporting you to be with and move through stuckness, struggle and chaos, inspiring and guiding you to listen to your body & connect to yourself, others & the earth so that you can find lightness, freedom, and aliveness, and help you live your purpose meaningfully in the world with integrity and authenticity! I am here to remind you of your deep connection to the earth, so that it may be a resource for you in times of need, holding you and guiding you, teaching you how to be gentle with yourself. It would be an honor to be a companion along your path. You have the map. I can help you read it.

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Tammy Murphy

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Hello and Welcome! Congratulations on taking action! My name is Tammy Murphy. I am a Licensed Psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience! I currently have the pleasure of working with motivated clients ALL OVER California through my teletherapy practice. Since I transitioned to online therapy several years ago, I have been amazed at how effective this new platform can be! I am pleased to conclude that my clients love it too! People enjoy the convenience of having their sessions in the comfort of their own homes (with their beloved pets, a good cup of coffee, and their favorite cozy chair)! Clients also appreciate sessions on the go through the use of their mobile phones! It’s like taking time out in the middle of a busy day to reflect and reset. Dealing with anxiety, depression, and stress can be overwhelming. Therapy provides the support necessary for people to get on with the business of life so they can re-focus on what really matters! Throughout my career, I have worked in a variety of settings including private practice, county agencies, nonprofits, school districts, and even wilderness/adventure-based therapies. I have loved them all! My therapeutic approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and engaging! I utilize an array of evidence-based practices along with humor! I believe it is the brightest and bravest among us who know when it's time to reach out. I also believe that most of us have a sense of what we need to do differently to improve our lives. The real question is what gets in the way of doing it? Together we can explore barriers, learn new skills, and take small but necessary steps toward reaching your life goals. After all, the most important investment you will ever make is in YOU! I look forward to working with you! Cheers!

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Mitch Artman

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW,MA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I became a therapist to help people suffer less and grow more. I believe that therapy is a journey and that just as you wish to move past your pain, your pain has a meaning. Our goal is not to get you back to who you were before your issues began, but to integrate the lessons life is offering you through this challenging time. I've worked in private practice, a mental health jail, a high-needs public clinic and in people's homes; I've exposed myself to a variety of human challenges and triumphs. Over a decade of practice, I've learned to have space for people's processes, to be a safe space as a container, to remain grounded in my listening and to be authentic in my practice. I often use a spiritual approach in treatment -- not of any religion, but in the sense that a deeper, more meaningful and integrated you seeks to come forth. This approach has been fruitful for people of all beliefs, including atheists. I believe your life has a meaning, and that you are it. I only do teletherapy via video - no messaging or phone calls. I also need to know the basics of your case and your needs before agreeing to beginning treatment, even if the algorithm matches us. This is to ensure I am a good clinical fit for you, and can responsibly and compassionately support you in therapy. Finally, I write about therapy at https://medium.com/@myartman and https://medium.com/@myartman/membership Thank you. Mitch

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Angelique Gettle

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

As a marriage and family therapist licensed in the state of California, I have over 25 years experience working with a diverse population; That experience has led me to help people with trauma, PTSD, women's issues, grief, addictions and attachment related disorders. I also utilize art therapy and animal therapy in my clinical practice. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, believing that every client is unique in their own perception and life experience. My approach combines a more humanistic, dynamic approach. I also enjoy rational-emotive based therapy and Minuchin’s Structural approach. It takes courage to seek therapy and to take those first steps toward actual change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to listen, support, and empower you to do so. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Katherine Phillips

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & 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. 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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Alexander Gordon

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionADHD
3 years of experience

I am a licensed psychotherapist in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, depression, & coping with life changes. With a background in developmental psychology, I utilize client-centered care to provide a safe, supportive and nonjudgmental space for clients to explore their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. During our initial sessions, I use careful listening to gain a holistic understanding of a client's life experience. From there, we will collaborate to set specific goals for your therapy. As an integrated psychotherapist, I draw from various therapeutic modalities (including cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused models, Gestalt and mindfulness-based models), tailoring my methods to meet your unique needs and challenges. I look forward to working with you!

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Sierra Bush

Offering therapy in CA
Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana, Nevada, and California with over10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, relationship conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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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This is Guillermina Gigi Valdes-Huckabee's avatar and link to their profile

Guillermina Gigi Valdes-Huckabee

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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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Georgia Roberts

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & 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.

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Timothy Malone

Offering therapy in CA
LGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have a passion for working with first responders and veterans. 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 Encinitas

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Encinitas 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas, 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas 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 92075 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas 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 Encinitas, 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.

Encinitas 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 Encinitas.

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

92007, 92023, 92024, 92075

Popular cities near Encinitas, CA

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