Our ideas can last us a lifetime. You don’t need to be an inventor to have a great idea. However, if you have no idea on how to live your life, it can be challenging. Anxiety, depression, and problems with your life can make it a challenge. A counselor based in Lakewood can help you. 

Lakewood’s motto is “good ideas last for generations.” The idea of mental health treatment was indeed good, and people are to this day getting treated for their ills. Speak to a counselor today and see what you can do for your mental state. 

This is Dr. Glenda Baez's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Glenda Baez

Offering therapy in CA
License: PsyD, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesDepression
19 years of experience

My name is Glenda Baez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in San Diego, California. I have a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology and have a doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am bilingual as Spanish is my second language and frequently conduct therapy in this language. I currently own a online teletherapy private practice and work with primarily individuals and couples. I have 19 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked as an outpatient therapist in clinics, non-profit settings, doing therapy in a preschool setting, I have also done extensive utilization management and quality management work. I have extensive experience working with very young children, school age children and adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I believe in being empathetic, warm, supportive, as well as empowering my clients in finding solutions. I approach issues from a solution-focused approach and also use cognitive-behavioral techniques to help address issues and improve self-esteem, self-awareness, improve mood, and work towards moving forward with life.

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Marina Alexander

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

Hello and Welcome, I am so glad you are here - because you are in the right place! It takes an intelligent person to seek out a guide when passing through challenging terrain. I know this is the right time for you to begin your journey into a deeper understanding of who YOU are as a unique person, and what YOU need to start making positive changes in your life. A life that “works” is largely a result of making the right choices. It is the choices we make every day - that bring about the consequences which we call our life experience. But sometimes it is difficult to see clearly and there may be a multitude of opinions about “what’s the right thing to do is” for YOU. Often, when we are not sure what to do, so we end up not doing anything. Feeling stuck in a “bad place” and not acting to change it can deepen feelings of anxiety, helplessness, and depression. On the other hand, getting help in understanding the situation you are facing and making a clear decision for corrective action - will always make you feel more empowered and happier because you are taking responsible action. I am here to help you gain more clarity into your situation, provide tools that you can use immediately to start feeling better, and support you in making the choices which are right for you. In working with me you will have a safe space of unconditional positive regard where you can share your thoughts and feelings without reservation. I know that we all long to feel accepted, validated, and understood, and that when we are given this kind of nurturing space, we can begin the exciting adventure toward healing and happiness. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California. I have been working as psychotherapist for over 16 years. I counsel adults of all ages, specializing in the treatment of life transitions, anxiety, depression, addictive behaviors, parenting challenges, relationship and marital conflicts, grief and loss. Some of the therapeutic approaches I have been trained in include Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Mindfulness Based and Solution-Focused Therapy, and Triple P – Positive Parenting Program and have successfully helped parents of children of all ages to manage disruptive behaviors. In addition to my training, I have been through a lot of transitions in my personal life, and lived in different countries. This experience has been priceless in helping me understand and relate to people in a culturally sensitive manner. I believe that my job as a therapist is to meet you where you are - in order to help you get to where you want to be. I am looking forward to meeting you and working with you!

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This is Lizette Alvarado's avatar and link to their profile

Lizette Alvarado

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years of experience

Hi welcome to my profile! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social worker with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families from diverse backgrounds. I have provided mental health treatment in various settings such as in-home, school setting, and outpatient setting. As a bilingual therapist I have helped clients with a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, dealing with life transitions, working through difficult relationships, parenting issues, and trauma. I have also facilitated parenting groups, social skills groups, sexual abuse groups, and domestic violence groups. I believe in a client- centered approach. What does this mean? It means clients tell their own stories at their own pace and guide the therapeutic process. All the while I will provide a safe, supportive, compassionate environment where you feel you are able to communicate your thoughts and feelings without judgement. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, solution focus, and mindfulness. I'm also certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I will work collaboratively to tailor my approach to meet your unique and specific needs. Making the decision to start therapy may be a scary process and it takes a lot of courage, but if you are ready to seek help, I’m ready to support and empower you in this journey.

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Chester Reyes

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW,BCD
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Hello there! Your search for help has led you to this moment. My name is Chester, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I’ve been fortunate to have worked with unique populations that have shaped my therapeutic approach. I have worked as a school-based social worker with inner-city children, teenagers, and at-risk young adults; veterans in homeless and residential treatment programs settings; and military service members. My fields of expertise are trauma (child abuse, domestic violence); anxiety and depression; substance abuse; and relationship issues. I am fully committed to your success by being empathetic, non-judgmental, and compassionate. I will be your biggest advocate, and work with you through an interactive and collaborative process from start to finish. Thank you for placing your trust in me, and I look forward to meeting and working with you.

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Dr. Brandy Reid

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT,Psy.D
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

Dr. Brandy Reid is an experienced licensed marriage and family therapist offering 14 years of experience with a demonstrated history of working in community mental health and private practice. Brandy enjoys advocating for marginalized groups through her clinical work and leadership development training. Brandy is a Christian and believes in allowing space for your spirituality to exist within your healing journey. Brandy is also an LGBTQIAA+ ally and enjoys doing advocacy work to support client's self-development. Brandy specializes in working with clients (children and adults) who have life experiences resulting from trauma, depression, anxiety, conduct disorder, substance use, divorce, abuse, and/ or homelessness. Brandy Reid is able to provide anger management, behavior modification intervention, life skills, stress management, family reunification support, parenting support, resilience skill training, self-esteem support, and grief support. Brandy utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach with an emphasis on CBT to help clients reach their goals, become more grounded, and strengthen their self-image. Brandy Reid received her BA in Sociology with a concentration in Pan African Studies in 2008. She went on to obtain an M.A. in clinical psychology ( marriage family therapy) in 2011 and a Psy.D in organizational psychology in 2019.

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This is Christy Crespin's avatar and link to their profile

Christy Crespin

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
34 years of experience

I am Christy Crespin, LCSW, licensed in California in 1995. I graduated from California State University, San Bernardino and obtained my license in clinical social work while working with families and children in the probation and foster care settings. I have over 30 years of experience working with adults in various settings including vocational rehabilitation, blindness, a forensic hospital setting, and families and foster care in a community mental health setting. I have worked through treatment modalities including Solution-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered, and motivational Interviewing. I strongly believe in the power of self-determination and that each of us is endowed with innate strength that we may need guidance to tap into, provided our avenues are explored, validated and empowered in a safe environment. Growth and change are difficult and it takes courage to step out in faith to discover who we are and that we can make changes so we live in balance at our optimal best. I hold the belief that each of us is a unique and precious child of the one who created us. Everyone is capable of working through difficulties to come out better on the other side, but at times we may need to summon the courage and strength to allow a therapist to assist. It takes being vulnerable and questioning our patterns to explore and embark on a path yet undiscovered, and I enjoy walking with others on their journey through life. I am a practicing Roman Catholic.

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This is Aldemar Martinez's avatar and link to their profile

Aldemar Martinez

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

I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), with 25 years of experience in the field of mental health. I also have a degree in Psychology, with I believe compliments my clinical and social work skills to formulate a more complete and wholistic approach to therapy. Additionally I am a Certified Trauma Professional, and use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as my primary theoretical approach to trauma. I believe that each individual brings into his/her therapy experience a unique set of skills, which I encourage to identify through Narrative Therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is another form of psychological treatment, which I often use with my clients to identify maladaptive behavioral patterns, and replace them with healthy habits to achieve a sense of healing. Finally I believe in the human connection., which is the power to positively influence one another. I welcome you and commend you for taking charge of your life through therapy!

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Kathleen Dodge

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
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, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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This is Chelsea Davis's avatar and link to their profile

Chelsea Davis

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
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, eating disorders, motivation, self esteem, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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 Catherine Chambliss's avatar and link to their profile

Catherine Chambliss

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
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, & 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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How to find counseling in Lakewood

Finding the best therapist close by in Lakewood 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 Lakewood. 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 Lakewood, 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 Lakewood 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 Lakewood 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 Lakewood, elsewhere in Los Angeles, 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 Lakewood area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Lakewood 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 Lakewood 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 Lakewood 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 Lakewood, 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 Lakewood 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 Lakewood 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 Lakewood 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 Lakewood 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 Lakewood 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 90711 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 Lakewood 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 Lakewood 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 Lakewood, 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.

Lakewood 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 Lakewood.

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

90711, 90712, 90713, 90714, 90715

Popular cities near Lakewood, CA

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