In life, your mental state can feel like a factory. When production is going well, the factory can produce a strong mental state. However, when production is having its share of problems, your factory can have problems and can come to a grinding halt. In a situation such as this, who can help? A counselor based in South San Francisco can help you. 

South San Francisco is known as the industrial part of San Francisco. When you're having problems, a counselor can help you manage your mental. However, you're in charge of the factory in the end, and you must make the changes if you want to improve.

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Carla Zorko

Offering therapy in CA
License: M.A.,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

Hello! My name is Carla Zorko, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have worked for 16 years helping a variety of clients reach the outcomes they desire. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, but can adjust my interventions based on your individual needs. I have experience with family and parenting issues, and can help with adult and teen anger management and problems with school-related depression, motivation and anxiety. Let me help you develop a plan to improve your mental health.

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Sherice Youngblood

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
15 years of experience

Hello future clients! Please take a minute and appreciate yourself as this is the first step in your health journey. The initial step of recognizing the desire for change and acting on it, can be the most difficult for some. A little about myself, I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of counseling/social work experience. I believe in partnering with each client to reach specified structured goals and I look forward to partnering with you. As a women of color, mother, wife, supervisor and employee I have experienced juggling multiple expectations at a time while navigating through the complexities this may bring. I consider myself an “Urban Therapist” as I derive from the low-income housing projects of San Francisco. My personal background includes experiences with crime, violence, trauma and other aspects of living in an under resourced environment. I’m proud to say as a native San Franciscan beginning my career in the city’s world famous Tenderloin District exposed me to a variety of counseling experiences with adults including work with historically under-represented groups such as LGBTQIA+, Persons of Color and those from a lower social economic status. Other aspects of my work have included work with adults experiencing depression, work conflicts and relationship stressors. These roots have lead me to provide supportive guidance to adults working through situations ranging from a stressful work environment, substance addiction to the effects of gun violence. My career including work with the homeless, child welfare, HIV/AIDS, medical social work and my personal experiences have prepared me for these challenges. My formal experiences provided knowledge and skill sets in Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Client Centered Therapy which are the frameworks I most often use. I again want to applaud you for taking the first step in your health journey. I’m looking forward to meeting you where we will work together to map put your journey!

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Ronald Coleman

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) since 2016 in California. I spent twenty-eight years in the army (active and reserve) retiring as a lieutenant colonel. I began Christian counseling in 2002 continuing through 2006. I counseled individuals and couples regarding various relational and adjustment issues. I also counseled individuals regarding self-esteem, and substance abuse. Theoretical approaches most commonly utilized consisted of cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, and family systems models. I attended a marriage and family therapy academic program at Western Seminary completing all requirements in 2008. I also obtained an addiction studies certificate from the institution. I worked in residential treatment facilities from 2005-2011. In this capacity crisis were handled though behavioral interventions that included crises intervention counseling and referral to appropriate internal/external resources. Additionally, assessments were conducted to determine if clients in crisis needed a higher level of care. Coordinated all client work parties. Monitored client suicide/homicide ideation in individual and group counseling sessions. During this time I also worked with inmates housed in residential treatment both inside and outside of treatment settings. In these settings the 12 Step model for treatment was utilized. From 2013 through 2017 I worked with the homeless population providing intensive case management. Presently I work with families with autistic children utilizing applied behavior analysis (ABA) as the treatment modality. With this wide breath of experience I believe I can continue to be of great assistance to individuals in needed of counseling services.

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Tina Hendizadeh

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesCareer difficulties
18 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & intimacy related issues. 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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Jess Quessenberry

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
LGBTTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
8 years of experience

Starting therapy can be a scary thing. For some people they may see it as admitting to being broken or too weak to handle their problems on their own. Others may see therapy as a waste of time or money. In reality we just need help or feel like the world is just too confusing and scary to understand or cope with. That makes total sense if we stop and look at the world around us. Sometimes life hits us so hard that we don't know what to do next. And I am here to help you figure it out along the way. Quick facts about me: My chosen name is Jess (my name right now has to match my professional license on here) 33 years old, Married, I have 2 young children. Non-binary transfemme she/they Trauma and Abuse History Autistic/ADHD My own style of counseling is more casual and I tend to use humor quite a bit. There is nothing you could do or say to shock or offend me; so don't worry about that and use what ever language you like.

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Jason Stringer

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

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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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Christina Banks

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, Anxiety
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California that is interested in helping "Women" with anxiety, stress, and adjustment to chronic illness. Previously, I worked in an outpatient clinic for nine years assisting adults cope and adjust to chronic illness and the social and emotional issues related, such as loss of career and/or formal lifestyle. These issues were addressed by using healthy coping strategies and stress reduction techniques. I also practiced mindfulness and cognitive behavior therapy at the clinic. I utilize a strength-based approach, which emphasizes the positive qualities of a person as well as their strengths. I practice with compassion, empathy, validation, gentleness, and understanding. I will meet you wherever you are in your journey to recovery and will tailor therapy for your unique needs.

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Hobert Gabuat

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementCareer difficultiesDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in California with 6 years of professional work experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, depression & career difficulties. Additionally, I have 21 years of experience in the military with multiple deployments in Iraq and Afganistan. 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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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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Hayley Sherer

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTCoping with life changesADHD
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find counseling in South San Francisco

Finding the best therapist close by in South 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 South 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 South 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 South 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 South 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 South San Francisco, 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 South San Francisco area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed South 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 South 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 South 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 South 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 South 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 South 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 South 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 South 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 South 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 94128 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 South 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 South 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 South 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.

South 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 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 South San Francisco.

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

94080, 94083, 94128

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