Depression can make you feel tired all the time, sad for no obvious reason, and can even cause confusion and memory loss. It can also affect your sleep and eating patterns. Luckily, the City of Millbrae has several extraordinary therapists in the area who are trained in diagnosing and treating depression, among other mental health issues. 

Millbrae was named for its rolling hills and beautiful views of the San Francisco Bay, which bring tourists and residents hours of spectacular activities like hiking, fishing, running, swimming, and boating. However, when you have depression or another mental health disorder, it can be difficult to find fun in anything. Consider speaking to a Millbrae area counselor about getting some treatment right away.

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Dr. Arti Nigam

Offering therapy in CA
License: PhD
Family conflictsGriefParenting issuesCareer difficulties
12 years of experience

I have been working as a licensed psychologist in California since 2006. I have worked with children and teens as well as with adults, including the elderly. I work to help people deal with both internal and external emotional challenges. These include issues of anxiety, depression, life crisis or acute trauma, life transitions, cultural adjustment, interpersonal conflict at home or at work, feelings of loneliness or hopelessness, and fears that carry over from the past. My therapeutic approach is informed by cognitive-behavioral and humanistic theories. I believe that the power to heal is within each of us. When you feel accepted as you are, when you feel unconditional positive regard, you can feel safe, and allow yourself to trust enough to let go of mental filters that keep you stuck. With some guidance, you can identify thought and behavior patterns that might prevent things from changing; you can identify ways to make things better, as well as finding ways to make peace with those things that can not change.

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Claudia Boles

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
20 years of experience

Thank you for being here and for visiting my profile. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of California. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from the University of Southern California where I also completed my undergraduate studies in social sciences and Spanish language. I have 20 years of experience in hospitals/healthcare and mental health settings. I'm particularly knowledgeable about assisting those who struggle with challenging health conditions and illness, grief and loss, bereavement, trauma, abuse, depression and anxiety. One special interest of mine is supporting those who have lost loved ones to suicide. I enjoy working with clients from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. I incorporate a holistic, integrative approach meaning that I draw from multiple modalities including cognitive behavioral, trauma-informed and strengths-based. I also incorporate mindfulness and motivational interviewing techniques into my practice. From my viewpoint as a clinician, human functioning and behavior stem from many life experiences and aspects of our lives: psychological, cognitive, biological/physical/medical, genetic, developmental, familial, social, educational/employment/career, spiritual, cultural and societal. It's important that we search for optimal ways together to maximize individual adaptive coping skills, to broaden insight, and to make positive, practical steps towards change. In addition to my employment, I've volunteered for several community organizations and non-profits that support health, mental health and/or education. One of my favorite volunteer positions has been serving as a Crisis Counselor for Crisis Text Line. I also have great appreciation for nature and the arts. My colleagues describe me as compassionate, empathetic and invested in my clients' well-being. I'm dedicated to making the most of any therapeutic experience.

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Dr. Gary Jordan

Offering therapy in CA
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
46 years of experience

Life is often difficult and challenging in the best of times. When you face anxiety, stress, depression, and feelings of inadequacy, the pain can be overwhelming. Life changes, relationship issues, family stress, and career challenges can activate deep feelings of confusion, failure, and unloveableness. If life has become too difficult to manage on your own, and you need assistance and support to sort things out, make necessary changes, and discover your innate talents and value, I can help. I have been working with people to confront and grow from the pain in their lives for 42 years. I earned my Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology – Berkeley and am a licensed psychologist in Texas and California. During my career I have worked in community mental health, private practice, inpatient facilities, business corporations, and nursing homes. The settings change and the content of people’s problems vary, but the underlying conflicts that cause psychological and emotional pain do not. Everyone wants to be heard, their issues understood, and to feel valuable and loved. I use a therapeutic approach that integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic principles, and positive emotional support to create a safe space to explore and heal the childhood wounds that make you feel alone and misunderstood by friends, family, spouses, significant others, and the world. Together we will challenge negative self-talk, destructive behaviors, and repetitive patterns that end poorly, cause pain, and reinforce feelings of self-doubt and worthlessness. We will discover new and constructive ways for you to re-frame ingrained beliefs, change painful and self-negating thoughts, and free you from old dysfunctional decisions made long ago that are still impacting your daily life. Therapy is a journey. Sometimes we need a tune-up and sometimes an overhaul. Either way, our work together will help you to discover new strengths and skills you never knew you had, develop constructive and healthy ways to face life’s challenges, and free you to move forward in life with freedom and joy.

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Paula Bishop

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS Counseling,LMFT,Certified Yoga Instructor-CYT-200
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

I have a Masters Degree in Counseling and I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for over 15 years. My experience involves 18 + years working with children and families involved in the child welfare system. I helped families address a range of concerns that revolved around child abuse, child neglect, domestic violence, substance abuse, child custody, self-esteem, depression, anxiety and more. I have also worked with adult and adolescent psychiatric patients in acute and residential settings, advocating for patients’ rights. I work from a Solution Focused (SF) theoretical approach and focus on what people CAN do rather than what people CANNOT do to help their situation. I help clients capitalize on their strengths and reframe “weakness” into strengths. I assist clients in identifying constructive behaviors they are already utilizing. I also believe that exploring family history is important in understanding a person’s values and belief system Though your situation may seem insurmountable, I believe you will learn the tools to achieve your goals.

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Dr. Shano Palovich Rodgers

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,PhD,LMFT
Trauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesCompassion fatigue
17 years of experience

I believe that the success of therapy is largely dependent on the relationship I have with my clients. CS Lewis once said, "To love at all is to be vulnerable." I think that vulnerability is a precious gift that is not to be taken lightly. It's very important that my clients feel safe to express that vulnerability in a non-judgmental environment that inspires trust. I work with clients according to their self-identified, strengths, needs and goals. Together we craft a path toward insight with compassion and motivation at your pace. I have over 20 years of experience working in the field of child welfare including foster and adoptive care. I also worked in private practice and helped clients with depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, secondary trauma, parenting challenges, and workplace pressure. I have a MA in Clinical Psychology and a PhD in Organizational Psychology. I use a variety of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative and Solution-Focused therapies, Psychodynamic Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I am a certified trainer in the Nurtured Heart Approach (for parenting intense children and youth) and am also a certified life coach. I look forward to partnering with you on your journey.

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Jackie M O'Malley Gomez

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping both adolescents and adults with stress and anxiety, childhood trauma and abuse, & depression. I also have experience working with post traumatic stress disorder, (PTSD), as well as concentration, memory and focus (ADHD). 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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Kimberly Jackson-Massaro

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
14 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & coping with life changes. I believe that you have the resources you need inside to move through life’s challenges and together we will explore how to utilize these strengths. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am grateful to be with you on this journey.

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Margaret "Maggie" Reid

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Hi, I’m Maggie! I’m an Expressive Arts Therapist. I work in the same way a typical therapist would work, exploring relationships, expressing emotions, working on social skills, discovering healthy coping skills, really any roadblock to being your very best self.  But in my practice, I also use the arts in our therapeutic journey.  This can include music, visual art, movement, magic, writing, and beyond.  My practice is truly client-centered.  Everyone has their own unique situation, and my goal is to tailor our work to your very personal needs.

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This is Pablo Orozco-Castro's avatar and link to their profile

Pablo Orozco-Castro

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & 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!

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Theresa Rodriguez

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
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, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find counseling in Millbrae

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Millbrae 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae, 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae 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 94030 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae 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 Millbrae, 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.

Millbrae 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 Millbrae.

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

94030

Popular cities near Millbrae, CA

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