Located in the beautiful area of Santa Clara County, Los Gatos, California was named the 33rd most wealthy town in America by Bloomberg Businessweek and high technology companies have a lot to do with it. But, too much technology can be a bad thing for some people. 

There is now proof that some people are affected by internet or video game addiction, which can wreck your life, affect your relationships, and cost you your job or home. If you or someone you know is suffering from one of these or any other mental health conditions, contact one of the many expert counselors in Los Gatos right away. 

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Harold Malin Jr

Offering therapy in CA
License: Ph.D., MA, LMFT
LGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issues
30 years of experience

Welcome to my profile page at BetterHelp! Most of the people I work with call me Marty. I'm looking forward to meeting you and working with you. I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a masters degree in psychology and a doctorate in sexology. I have worked extensively in County Behavioral Health systems both as a therapist and a supervisor, and in private practice as well. I have also worked in a hospital setting at the Johns Hopkins Medical School and in grade schools, middle schools and high schools as well as institutional settings including jails and juvenile halls. It's been my privilege to work with children, adolescents, young people, adults and older adults as singles, couples,and polycules in traditional and intentional families. In all, I have more than 30 years experience with individual, family and group therapy and in supervising other licensed professionals and interns. I have published extensively about working with sexual issues. I have a special interest in working with people who struggle with concerns related to polyamory, gender expression, less common sexual interests including BDSM/Kink, LGBTQIA concerns and disorders of sex development (DSD or intersex). I also have experience working with patients who have medically related mental health concerns, including post-surgical patients whose functioning is compromised and those with head trauma, brain injury or other debilitating accidents that impair or alter sexual function. Sometimes such arousal patterns and practices, or differences in physical development or functioning can give rise to difficulty in relationships including marriage/partnering, family dynamics, and parenting. And, of course, it's common for sexual concerns to be a part of the work in therapy with trauma, abuse, anxiety and depression and obsessive or compulsive behaviors. My approach to working with people in therapy is to meet them where they are, help them formulate goals, and marshal the tools to help them meet their objectives. There are many theoretical orientations and philosophies, techniques, and treatment aids every therapist learns about in school and masters on the job. The best ones are the ones that work for you. My job as a therapist is to offer you tools and support you on your journey.

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Melissa Morais Parr

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepression
11 years of experience

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the state of California and have an online therapy practice. I completed my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University in 2009. I have worked in various settings including outpatient, school-based, and residential, and have provided therapy to a diverse group of clientele on a wide-range of concerns. I specialize in providing therapy to individuals, teens, couples and families who are struggling with life stressors, relationship concerns, parenting difficulties, depression, and anxiety. I approach therapy by looking at each person as part of a larger family system. The way we each grow up influences our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors throughout our life. Some of these influences are positive and others can cause us difficulties and get in the way of the person we want to be and the relationships we want to have. I utilize a combination of CBT (Cognitive-Behavior-Therapy), Psychoeducation, and Mindfulness practices within my therapy in order to help my clients obtain knowledge and develop skills to assist them in difficult times. I believe we all have the ability to grow and overcome our personal difficulties and life stressors to live the life we want to have. Therapy is a great tool to help one learn more about themselves and guide them to a better and happier self. I’m excited to be on this journey with you!

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Phyllis Trail

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
27 years of experience

Hi! I am Phyllis Trail, LMFT. I am a California-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with a nursing background. I help clients master life changes, including stress, anxiety, addictions, illness, grief and loss, depression, and other issues. One of my focus areas has been those who are raising OPKs (Other People's Kids). Another has been Christian Counseling, for those who prefer it. Our lives have largely been affected by what we adapted to as children, when we learned about life from people around us. Sometimes therapy involves sorting those ideas from what my client really wants, and giving them permission to have that. Other times therapy is more present-day, as we tackle current stressors or issues. There are many schools or methods of psychotherapy. I take cues from my clients to find ways they can receive help. I rely on my instincts and our relationship to guide us. I enjoy revealing hope to my clients. I often can see the silver lining that awaits as we venture through hindrances, to reach freedom, peace, and hope. People come to a therapist to sort out problems, to find solutions and ways out. People need hope. They need love, compassion, and empathy; those are my tools and strengths. When people get insight and permission to be themselves and move forward, their eyes light up and their entire face changes. It’s awesome, being free! I’m interested in helping you get free. If my description of therapy appeals to you and your needs, contact me. Let’s see what we come up with! You are the expert of your story, and you have many strengths to assist you in overcoming challenges. I honor you for getting started!

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Michelle Ikeda

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with diverse experience in social services and healthcare fields. My expertise is in helping individuals/couples cope with differences in priorities, improve communication, and facilitate better understanding of each other. I have a variety of experiences working with children and families with issues related to child welfare system, court or non-court custody related issues, legal guardianship related issues and parenting issues. I am very passionate about helping individuals and couples with relationship and family dynamics issues. I am bilingual in English and Japanese. Growing up in Japan, I was taught to be modest and humble, and also to always be mindful of others. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My belief is highlighted when interacting with clients as I use a client-centered approach. Throughout the years of my helping profession, I have worked with clients from 0 to 110 years old of diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds! I have experiences providing intensive case management services to caregivers/families and elderly residents, particularly family members of dementia patients in convalescent facility settings. People with advanced age have a lot of life experience to share, and I am intrigued by their life stories. I also have extensive knowledge of supporting and guiding family members of children and adults with developmental disabilities, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder. My current regular availability is limited to weekends (Friday evening through Sunday) and some holidays, but I can work with weekday evenings on as needed basis for existing clients.

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Ayesha Wallace

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 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, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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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Dr. Jesse Weller

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical psychologist who graduated from The Wright Institute in Berkeley. I understand that life can feel overwhelming at moments and that it is common to feel stuck, lost, or defeated. My priority in the therapy process is to help you feel better, change unhelpful patterns or behaviors, and to help you create new ways of navigating stress, anxiety, and relationships. From our first session together, you will see that our work will be collaborative, active, and practical. We will work together on a plan that is unique and specific for you. I believe that for behavioral change to occur, the tools and strategies must be practiced in your everyday life so there will be assignments or additional activities between sessions so we can track, monitor progress, and evaluate results. To facilitate this process, I combine my professional knowledge and experience for treating anxiety, chronic worry, depression, and relationship issues, with empirically supported treatments that work. My primary treatment approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a therapy approach that is based on research, which focuses on the relationship between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and how you respond to situations. I also integrate treatment approaches from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which is an action-oriented therapy, which includes elements of acknowledgment, acceptance, and commitment to making necessary changes. For more information, you may visit my website at DrJesseWeller.com

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Phyllis Grannis

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
34 years of experience

Greetings! I'm a licensed therapist from the beautiful state of California, bringing to you 34 years of experience in helping individuals just like you navigate life's challenges. Whether you're grappling with stress, anxiety, relationship dilemmas, parenting challenges, or need a boost in self-esteem and motivation, I'm here to help. My practice creates a warm, open environment where your feelings and thoughts are given the respect and attention they deserve, completely free of judgment. I know the first step towards therapy can seem daunting, and just by being here, you're already winning! I applaud your courage in taking this crucial step. You're not alone in this journey, and I'm here to support you every step of the way!

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Albani Goodall

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping 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 relationship issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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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Leroy Thompson

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
21 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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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Julie Laurent

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, life transitions, self esteem and confidence, & career difficulties. 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 sign up for therapy and considering change can take courage and I am here to support!

How to find counseling in Los Gatos

Finding the best therapist close by in Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos. 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 Los Gatos, 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos, elsewhere in Santa Clara, 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 Los Gatos area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos, 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 95030 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos, 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.

Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos.

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

95030, 95032, 95036

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