Expensive cities typically have lots of great amenities to them. There are some notable counselors in Manhattan Beach that are ready to give you the help that you need no matter what life may throw at you. 

Manhattan Beach is part of the top 1% of high schools in the nation. It’s also one of the most expensive locations to live, but it is a hub for surfing and volleyball and is also known for the sand dunes that are underneath many of the buildings in the area. You can ride the dunes of life in a simpler manner with the help of a counselor in the area. 

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Rosemary Sara Chesters

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

During these unprecedented times many of us need extra support and more than ever a listening ear to share our experiences. Everyone's journey with social isolation is unique - we are all coping differently. However, stress, anxiety, depression and fear for the future are widespread. I'm an experienced licensed therapist and counselor, former Fortune 50 executive with experience in Hospital Psychiatric facilities and as a Peace Corps Response volunteer in Africa working in crisis and high stress public health situations. I also offer you safety and support during times of crisis or whenever you or your family may feel out of your depth. Having faced my own life challenges I'm especially looking forward to hearing your story and working together towards the solutions you're searching for. My most meaningful partnerships are with clients who embrace collaboration and creativity in their paths to finding the life they want for themselves, their family and friends.

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Kate Byrnes

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Welcome - When you're struggling, it can be exciting to dream of a better future - and also hard to think of making real changes. You might want your life to be better but aren’t yet sure how to make it happen. Or maybe life's given you news and you must adapt, either after a big loss or to respond to the behaviors of others. Making the next set of choices can be very important if you want life to improve again; finding the right therapist to help sort things out can be a relief. My Experience: I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist, fully licensed to practice in both Colorado and California. I have over 15 years experience as a therapist, in both Private Practice and Community Mental Health. I earned my Master's degree in Counselor Education with an emphasis in Marriage, Family and Child Counseling from California State University at Sacramento. My experience includes working with individuals healing through anxiety, depression, trauma, range of relationship issues, as well as self esteem and other personal growth issues. I work with clients who are working on managing life's stresses and changes, workplace and career decisions, addiction, grief & loss and the large and small frustrations of life. My approach: I tend to be compassionate, grounded, goal-oriented, and client-centered. I use Solution Focused therapy, Client Centered Therapy, with an eye on interpersonal relationships and always considering phases of life. I help my clients set a focus on what's needing to change in their lives and working toward better understanding of themselves and others. I'm grateful that my clients often report feeling more clear and at peace once we've talked things through. I often observe my clients taking action and making new decisions during and after our counseling. Over the years, I’ve served incredibly diverse clientele, including all ages, and a range of cultures, sexual orientations and across the gender spectrum, from all walks of life in their countless moments of need, vulnerability, triumph and growth. As a result, I have deep compassion for the complexities of being human. I truly understand how powerful confidential therapy can be for healing, growth and transformation. I hope to talk with you so you can decide if I might be of support to you.

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Sonia Gallegos

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
6 years of experience

I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California and Arizona with over 5 years of experience working as a therapist for a government agency. I have worked with clients with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, personality issues, and relationship challenges. My approach involves evidence based treatment and solution focused. I will individualize sessions and a treatment plan with your unique goals we explore together. I look forward to meeting you and being a part of this season in your life.

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Steven Frank

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist. I am experienced in helping clients with depression and anxiety, as well as stress issues. Over the last few years I’ve been treating survivors of trauma and abuse. Having working in the California State Hospital system as a psychiatric technician, I have been part of a hospital treatment team in working with those with bipolar disorder (those stable on their medication). I enjoy working with couples to repair communication and trust, whether to reconcile differences or to improve communication after separation or divorce. I appreciate and respect anyone deciding to seek positive change in their life. Taking the first steps in committing to treatment takes a whole lot of dedication and courage. I want to know what you want from therapy, what made you take those first steps in scheduling an appointment. I want to understand what you need to improve, not to add to conflict and personal pain. I look forward to your call.

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Toppacio Rodriguez

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
5 years of experience

Hi there, my name is Toppacio Rodriguez but you can call me Topy, and my pronouns are she/her (ella/ellas). I am bilingual and can provide support in English and in Spanish. I want to steal a moment to write ‘thank you’ for taking the time to be here. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with a variety of people, from different economic statuses, ethnicities, cultures, races, genders and sexual orientations. I enjoy working on a systemic level with kids, teens, adults and couples. This means that we would work on the whole self and nurture the different aspects in your life. The modalities that I use come from an array of therapeutic theories. I am certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP). I have worked with children who have atypical brains, such as, children on the Autism Spectrum Disorder and children who have Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. I have worked with survivors of sexual assault (children to adults) and of domestic violence. 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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Valerie Sanz

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have 14 years of professional work experience in the field. I have experience in helping clients who are managing or coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and are seeking change. I build on motivation, self esteem, and confidence techniques and treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I tailor our sessions 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 through that journey.

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Stephen Scherer

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersDepressionCoaching
17 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 18 years of experience as an individual practitioner. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, sleeping disorders, addictive behaviors, mood disorders, and problems with communication. I was a college-level instructor for ten years, and as such I have experience in communicating complex ideas in an understandable manner. My work is focused on Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), techniques useful for significant behavioral challenges. I am also versed in Behavior Analysis, which is helpful to address problematic habits and the establishment of new, more productive behaviors. If you feel that I might be of help for you, please reach out and we can discuss your needs further.

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Maria Guzman Gutierrez

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
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, family conflicts, 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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Julie Brown

Offering therapy in CA
Anger managementCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
28 years of experience

Hello, I am an LCSW in California many years of experience. I work with clients in California* who are dealing with issues related to depression, anxiety, life transitions and workplace and relational problems. I also appreciate opportunities to support graduate students, working parents and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Thank you for reading my profile. I look forward to meeting you. *Currently providing services to California residents only, per licensure requirements

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Kaete Elliott

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesAnger managementDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & 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. 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 Manhattan Beach

Finding the best therapist close by in Manhattan Beach 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 Manhattan Beach. 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 Manhattan Beach, 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 Manhattan Beach 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 Manhattan Beach 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 Manhattan Beach, 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 Manhattan Beach area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Manhattan Beach 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 Manhattan Beach 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 Manhattan Beach 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 Manhattan Beach, 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 Manhattan Beach 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 Manhattan Beach 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 Manhattan Beach 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 Manhattan Beach 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 Manhattan Beach 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 90267 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 Manhattan Beach 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 Manhattan Beach 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 Manhattan Beach, 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.

Manhattan Beach 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 Manhattan Beach.

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

90266, 90267

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