Life can feel like walking across a cornfield. It can be a fun experience filled with delicious corn for you to eat, or it can feel like a maze you can’t get out of. If it’s the latter, a counselor based in Milpitas can help. Anxiety, depression, and various other mental ills can make your life tough to navigate, but a counselor can help you by giving you an exit you can escape from as long as you can follow it. 

Milpitas means “place of little cornfields.” Everyone is navigating through their own cornfield, and a counselor can be your navigator. 

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Laurie Nelson

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LMFT ,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Hello there! I'm a licensed therapist (MFT) for over 10 years, and have a warm, engaging and growth oriented approach. I've helped clients who are immersed in DEPRESSION and ANXIETY as well as those in a higher functioning place that simply need help navigating a specific struggle with guided support .** I use approaches like DBT( Dialectical Behavior Therapy)mixed with cognitive behavioral and mindfulness strategies. I'm trained in Psychodynamic theory as well, and see the importance of knowing why you get stuck along with the need for concrete strategies to move forward.* I have extensive experience in treating all types of Depression as well as Generalized Anxiety, PTSD, Social Anxiety, ADHD, difficulty with Anger Management and Emotional Regulation. * I often help clients transform a harsh inner-critic into self acceptance, newfound confidence and increased capacity for joy. My goal is for you to gain strategies and insight that allow you to feel fully expressed, alive and authentic. I have specialized experience helping clients release the old stories and beliefs that keep them stuck in the status quo. By shining a light on what these are and where they come from, new possibilities and increased freedom of choice appear. I'll help you get unstuck , take small steps towards your goals and create momentum in the process! *I've also worked extensively to help clients improve all aspects of relationships, with a big focus on communication and learning how to say what you mean, ask for what you want and better hear the other person as well. Whether it's at work, with a partner or a child, you can learn how to bring up difficult topics with more ease and confidence. *As a therapist, I balance listening, supporting and giving you concrete strategies that are unique to your personality and situation. I'll challenge you with empathy and kindness when necessary and encourage you to move through fear and hesitation in order to move forward. I love helping clients explore the idea that life is happening FOR them and not TO them, which leads to feelings of empowerment vs victimization. * My clients come away with the skill of using what life brings as a lesson to be learned. Once the lesson is learned, the need for the situation to repeat is gone. This is freeing and leads to a trust in all that life brings us. When appropriate, I also incorporate guided visualization, mindfulness meditation and body awareness into the sessions. These can be powerful ways to bring clarity and unexpected answers to the most difficult things you face. I live in CA with my husband, 2 daughters, 2 dogs and a cat. I love hiking, painting and teach hip hop dance which I love! Being a parent gives me personal as well as professional experience that I utilize when helping clients deal with the inevitable challenges of being part of a family.

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Mallerie Mulhall

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. I received my MSW in Clinical Social Work from NYU in 2010 and my BS in Psychology from the University of Florida in 2008. Over the years, I have worked with many different populations in a variety of settings, ranging from private practice, substance abuse treatment centers to schools. I specialize in working with clients dealing with obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety and panic, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, life transitions, substance abuse related difficulties, self-esteem problems, attachment-related issues, and/or interpersonal relationship difficulties. I am proficient in multiple evidenced-based interventions and I have significant experience working with adolescents, young adults, and families. My counseling approach is empathetic and interactive. I believe strongly in the importance of the therapeutic alliance and rapport between client and therapist. I draw heavily from psychodynamic and relationship-based counseling techniques, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Family Systems, and Motivational Interviewing. Seeking assistance in developing a happier and more fulfilling life takes courage and strength. When you are ready to take that first step, I am here to help and guide you. Looking forward to working with you!

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Tyler Cole

Offering therapy in CA
License: LPC,LPCC,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience

Hi, welcome to the BetterHelp community. I want to commend you for the courage it took to take the first steps in seeking support at this time. My name is Tyler Cole and I am a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor in the states of California, Colorado, and Washington. I am also a Nationally Certified Counselor and bring with me 7+ years of experience working in a wide variety of settings. I have experience providing counseling across a spectrum of diverse individual and family needs in community clinics, schools, residential care, and private practice. Throughout my experience I have had the opportunity to support individuals and families in working toward and meeting their goals in a wide array of considerations including: managing depression and anxiety, overcoming situational stress, finding opportune work-life balance, enhancing and improving communication and relationship fulfillment, and fostering overall improved inter and intrapersonal wellbeing. Additionally, I have advanced training and experience in addressing concerns related to trauma and abuse, parenting and family concerns, and attachment dynamics. I am a firm believer in the research that indicates that the counseling experience will only be as helpful as the strength of the therapeutic alliance. As such, I take pride in working to create an accepting, non-judgmental, supportive, and safe space in which we can work together. It is my goal to fully understand your story, values, goals, and relationships that are of the most importance to you in order assist you in reaching your goals. Most often, individuals and families tend to know, intuitively, what they want and need and then tend to move in that direction when barriers can be navigated around. My role is to compassionately assist in navigating any potential areas where things are feeling stuck and unhelpful. Some of my approaches to our shared work include the use of techniques derived from Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR. However, each of these evidence-based interventions are grounded in a firm commitment to a client-centered and strengths-based approach that highlights the individual and family as the expert on your life and needs. Reaching out for support is not always an easy or clear decision to make. Again, I commend you for taking this step. Whether I have the opportunity to work with you or not, I wish you all the best in your endeavors to improve your overall wellbeing.

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Alan Wong

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionADHD
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & depression. I am also a certified therapist in Cognitive Behavior Therapy as certified by the Academy of Cognitive and Behavior Therapies. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Terrie Pittman

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. 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. My years of experience has allowed me to work with a plethora of clients, which includes parenting, pre-marital counseling, anger management, domestic violence, and marriage maintenance. I am here to help.

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Burton "Burt" Swaim

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
50 years of experience

I am a licensed psychotherapist in California and Utah with over 50 years of professional experience. I have extensive successful experience helping individuals deal effectively with stress/anxiety, depression and helping clients reset and renew their efforts to achieve their life goals. I also have considerable experience helping clients deal with alcohol and drug related difficulties. I also help build and support goal setting, motivation, self esteem and work to increase confidence. This often involves relationship issues, and coping with previous loss, grief. and trauma. The overall strategy is identifying and Challenging the Inner, often unrealized Personal Potential. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts ,feelings and behaviors can be shared without judgment. It takes courage and willingness to seek out a more fulfilling , happier and meaningful life. I have a depth of life experience and a spirit that is a strength and resource in this personal growth. I thoroughly enjoy supporting my clients as they take their first steps towards positive change and healthy progress. Therapy is a collaborative process with clients in setting issues to work on in therapy and setting achievable goals and time setting for their progress. Active client participation in setting therapy goals is essential. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I am focused on helping you improve your developing comfort, happiness and success in your life. I am All In! I want you to overcome, accept deal with and Improve your :Life whatever the Challenges may be! Note: I have co-produced several Documentary films to Support Full Recovery from alcohol and chemical dependency. "Living Sober Class of '76" was acclaimed by Marty Mann Founder/Director of the National Council on Alcoholism as "The Best Film ever Made in the Field of Alcoholism". It was helpful in remove to some degree the Stigma of Recovery. I have also been a guest faculty in the Summer School on Alcohol Studies at the University of California at San Diego with Topics such as "Intimacy, Sexuality and Recovery. I helped in the Publishing of " I'm Back and I'm Sober" by Chaney Allen Washington. Her book was a Ground Breaking Success with many publications. I assisted the State of Montana with increasing Liquor Taxes to help fund the "Alcoholism Programs of Montana". I was able to serve as a personal consultant to the late Joan Kroc, McDonald Owner regarding her producing treatment and recovery documentary films for her Operation Cork Program. Joan Kroc donated $1,700,000,000 to the Salvation Army prior to her passing. These funds have helped many, many individuals recover from alcohol and drug use and continue to do so. Most recently my wife Shirley and I wrote and published via Amazon, "Rebirth of the Broken Branches'" a True Love Story! It emphasizes the Positive Aspects of Recovery. It is being considered by an Academy Award Winning writer for a televised movie.

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Manuel Mercado

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
23 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 23 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dr. Joetta Willis

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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.

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Lorena Martin

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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.

This is Sonya Drottar's avatar and link to their profile

Sonya Drottar

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, parenting issues, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find counseling in Milpitas

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Milpitas 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 Milpitas 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 Milpitas 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 Milpitas, 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 Milpitas 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 Milpitas 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 Milpitas 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 Milpitas 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 Milpitas 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 95035 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 Milpitas 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 Milpitas 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 Milpitas, 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.

Milpitas 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 Milpitas.

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

95035

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