Sometimes, your mental state can feel like a university. There is so much opportunity for your to explore, but no matter what, you feel like you're in a rut. You can’t find yourself no matter how hard you try. Your depression and stress hold you back. What can you do when you’re having a problem such as this? 

One thing you can do is to speak to a therapist based in Berkeley. A licensed therapist can help you by giving you guidance and navigating you through life. The learning never ends, and so does finding yourself. You just need to speak to a therapist for help. 

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Teresa Burbach

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepression
23 years of experience

My approach is direct and kind. I believe you are the expert in your own life and am I here to help you reach your goals. I strive to provide a safe space where you can feel validated and empowered to solve problems and move forward. I use solution focused interventions and empathic listening skills to aid you in your journey. I have a Master's Degree in Psychology and am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist(LMFT) with twenty three years of experience. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, marital and family conflict and have thirteen years of experience working with military personnel and their families.

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Laura Drucker

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Hi! I'm glad you are thinking of working with me so let me tell you a bit about myself. I have worked in this field for over 30 years. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work in 1984, and am licensed in California (LCSW) and Arkansas (LCSW). Additionally, I have a Master's Degree in Human Rights. I have worked with people ages six through older adulthood and with individuals, groups, couples, and families. I have worked in private practice and public mental health settings. I bring this wealth of knowledge and wide range of experience and expertise to my individual work with you. My approach is client centered and non judgmental. I will work with you to problem solve, grow, develop new life skills, identify and achieve your goals while helping you to clarify your values, know yourself better, and build upon your current strengths and skills. I am really looking forward to the privilege of working with you!

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Marsha (Marcie) Eriksen Hanna

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW,LCSW
GriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
21 years of experience

Welcome and congratulations on reaching out for support! It takes great strength to make the decision to take that first step. We will be showcasing and enhancing your many strengths by utilizing a Strengths-Based, Solution Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral model in our time together to achieve your fullest potential and happiness in life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with almost 20 years of experience in working with individual adults and families in the following practice areas: Depression, Stress and Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family Conflicts, Coping with grief and loss, Parenting issues, Motivation/Self esteem/Confidence, Career difficulties, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue, and Memory Loss. My Master’s degree in Social Work is from San Diego State University. I also completed an Intergenerational Specialist certificate program from the University of Pittsburgh’s graduate school of social work. You will find my counseling style to be compassionate, warm, genuine, direct, and respectful. I create a space for you that is safe, non-judgmental, encouraging and positive. I am an empathetic and active listener, and we will use proven approaches and strategies that are tailored to the uniqueness of your needs and life path. I am looking forward to working with you!

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Katie Aab

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA ,LMFT
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
9 years of experience

Hi! My name is Katie Aab and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Riverside, California. I have over seven years experience as a therapist, in both the Community Mental Health model and in Private Practice. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University in 2013. My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, career challenges, mood disorders, substance use issues, and OCD. I have also worked with clients who struggle with stress, loss, abuse/neglect, and the frustrations of life. I would describe my approach as empathetic, goal oriented, and client centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Solution focused therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Motivational interviewing to help my clients set goals and objectives, work through their traumas, and feel empowered once they have met their goals. I enjoy helping people through challenging situations. I provide a warm and non-judgmental environment, allowing us to better work together and reach your goals. Everyone deserves to have someone they can easily talk to; let me be that person for you. I look forward to working with you and guiding you in meeting your therapeutic goals as well.

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Tammy Foster

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

I am a licensed mental health therapist serving in California as Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a wealth of knowledge both as a clinical therapist and also as a coach and counselor. In the beginning of my private practice venture, I have served as an addiction specialist, interventionist and counselor for about 6.5 years. At that time, I was also the administrator for an adolescent treatment center in Northern California. I bring to the table over 20 years of experience in assisting persons with a wide range of challenges including: depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, career related issues, relationship issues, parenting and marital problems. I have also helped many people going through adversities related to major transitions, adult life goals, social skills, grief and loss, substance abuse and sex addiction. I have a wealth of knowledge in codependency and attachment theory that have been reported as life challenge liberating for hundreds of people. My counseling style is warm and interactive. My approach combines a variety of theoretical approaches including, but not limited to: person-centered and strength-based approach, while integrating motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems and mindfulness based counseling. I believe that every step in this journey called life is important and that we are all here to help one another to experience more joy, peace and harmony. I know it is my calling and with great joy and deep gratitude, I dedicate my career to helping others create a happier and healthier version of self. I have helped hundreds of people walk through the tunnel of darkness. I am honored to support my clients in nurturing the light within self in order to reach inner freedom and harmony. Looking forward to walking through with you! With Light, Tammy Tammy Foster, LCSW

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Erin Robertson

Offering therapy in CA
License: M.S. ,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepressionADHD
8 years of experience

I am a family and marriage counselor licensed in California with over 8 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationship issues, parenting problems, behavioral issues, gender and sexuality, and college and career challenges. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma, emotional and physical abuse, chemical dependency, homelessness, and divorce. I have over five years of experience serving children, adolescents, and teens, through a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, divorce, ADHD, and academic and behavioral challenges. I have a client-centered approach and I believe that you are the author of your own story; I am merely here to help lead your sessions, and support you along your journey. I believe in treating everyone whom I have the pleasure of working with respect, sensitivity, and compassion--and I will show up for you wherever you are at in your life. My approach combines Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and psychodynamic counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I don't believe that any of us were created to do life alone. We were not created to feel lonely, or pained by sadness or confusion from our past. I look forward to creating a relationship with you that will inspire and empower you, helping to promote healing, growth, and change. I look forward to working with you!

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Lesley Hilp

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA ,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

Hello there! Thank you so much for perusing my profile. I am so proud of you for taking this step towards healing. A little bit about me: I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with six years of experience working with children, families, couples and teenagers. I have worked in community based health and have collaborated with individuals and families on coping with issues such as depression, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, parenting challenges, anxiety, substance abuse, setting boundaries and building autonomy, confidence and resilience. My philosophy to therapy is client centered, focusing on building trust, rapport and emotional safety within the therapeutic space. My aim is to create an open and warm environment where individuals feel comfortable and safe to freely express themselves. I believe the primary agents of change are self-compassion, awareness, affect regulation and resiliency. I would be honored to work with you to build new behaviors and mindsets that can offer you relief and a deeper understanding of patterns so you can heal and thrive in all realms of your life.

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Dr. Brenda Klass-Christopher

Offering therapy in CA
License: PhD,MA ,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
25 years of experience

Hello, my name is Brenda Klass, I am glad you stopped by. I have been involved in behavioral health for over 30 years in Los Angeles County. I help to heal psychic wounds and bring families closer to the harmony they desire. I have a PhD in psychology and licensed as a marriage family child therapist. My experience covers many areas: I have extensive training with Chronic illness, Chronic pain, Chemical Dependency, Depression, Anxiety. I have also worked with clients who just need someone to support them through challenging experiences, emotions, and life changes. Are you or your child or family struggling with a difficult life transition? Have you or your child or young adult come up against a situation that you think may be leading to depression, anxiety or other mental health challenges? Are you a college student having a hard time navigating a new world of independence and responsibility? Are you experiencing emotions related to Covid 19- job loss, grief loss family member, financial issues, Please allow me to assist in determining what I can do to help I am an empathic, serious listener when my role calls for it, and a simpatico companion in life’s journeys. My style is direct, positive, and warm with a focus on supporting clients but holding them accountable to their goals for treatment. I don’t look on my role as a “fixer” or “solver”, I believe I am here to help YOU find those solutions and fixes. You are coming here to gain the tools and understanding to deal with something in your life and I would love to be your partner in the journey. As we all know, it is frequently difficult to see the forest for the trees. I’m here to help you do a little hedge trimming so your vision is less obscured. If you have been in therapy before and are facing new challenges you think could be helped by therapy, then you know the drill. If you are new to therapy and feeling anxious or awkward about seeking help, you are not alone. Looking for a therapist you connect with can be an arduous process for some. For others it is easy; they connect with the first person they meet. Either way, I am skilled at making this part of the journey as smooth as possible, while allowing you the space to come to your own decisions. .

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This is Allyson Savala's avatar and link to their profile

Allyson Savala

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS ,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

Are you feeling stuck, numb, or tired all the time? Is it becoming difficult to focus on work, family, friends, or even YOURSELF? Would you like to find a way to overcome this but don't know where to begin? I became a therapist because I believe in the transformative power of the therapeutic process. Therapy is an invitation to attend to your feelings, become aware of the circumstances hidden behind those feelings and take back your power and with support from your therapist, move towards recovery and wholeness. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with just over 5 years of therapeutic experience and 8 years working in the field of human services. I have worked with an array of mental disorders and I have treated clients from various backgrounds, including military veterans, first responders and healthcare workers struggling with anxiety, depression, and PTSD (childhood/in the field or both). I am also effective in working with individuals who are struggling with substance use disorders, LGBT+ (including individuals in transition), and sex workers (current, exiting, and exited). My style is warm and interactive, and my approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Approaches. Every client is different, and I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Better is possible. Anxiety, sadness, and overwhelm can leave you feeling unable cope in healthy, appropriate ways. But it can get better, and you don't have to do this alone. As with all explorations, I will be your guide to walk with you through the frustration, pain, and confusion. Regardless of what we find, I will be committed to doing it with you. Striking a balance applies to all my clients, regardless of presentation. This allows my clients to achieve a more fulfilling life, personally and professionally. Outside of sessions, my clients gradually succeed in building their own self-care practice by as little as a few minutes a day. Whatever your season in life, whatever the challenge you may be facing, I invite you to this work for the well-being of your whole self.

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Quan (Linda) Romo

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
6 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, depression, & coping with life changes. 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. 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 Berkeley

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley, 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 94708 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley, 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.

Berkeley 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 Berkeley.

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

94701, 94702, 94703, 94704, 94705, 94707, 94708, 94709, 94710, 94712, 94720

Popular cities near Berkeley, CA

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