Being near the Pacific Ocean can be great, but sometimes the ocean in your head can be tough to traverse. Luckily, with the help of a counselor in Pacifica, you’ll be able to easily create the life that you want.

Pacifica is actually spread along a 6-mile stretch of beaches all along the coast, and it even has small valleys. It’s a popular surfing location, with many visiting because of how fun it is. You can ride the waves of life in your own way, and with the help of a counselor, it’s definitely possible. 

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Dr. Jennifer Roberts

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

Does your life sometimes seem unmanageable? Are you feeling weighed down by anxiety, depression or loneliness? These are challenging times and many of us are navigating a vast amount of change and loss. It’s important to reach out and get the support you deserve. Together we can develop your strengths and design a plan to address these challenges. We will create a safe space for you to explore your feelings and find the empowerment you need to build a meaningful and fulfilling life. As a LMFT with more than 25 years of experience providing support to clients to develop personal awareness, strength and healing I will help you create more energy, confidence and courage to take the next steps in your life. I work holistically, using a set of eclectic therapeutic techniques like cognitive behavioral, existential and narrative therapy to tailor my work directly to your personal needs. Congratulations on taking the first successful step in this journey. I look forward to working with you to actualize your hopes, passions, values and goals and construct the future that you want and deserve.

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Marie Svard

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
18 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California (LMFT) and I have been licensed for almost 12 years but have worked in the field much longer. I have experience conducting individual, family and group therapy, both residential and in-patient settings with clients presenting with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, teen specific concerns, and a wide range of challenges including trauma, abuse, mood disorders, adjustment issues, personal growth and crisis. One of the most important building blocks for growth in therapy is the relationship between the individual and the therapist. We all experience difficult times in our lives. Therapy offers a safe, honest and nonjudgemental space to gain insight into our experiences. It helps us identify problematic life patterns, and find constructive ways to move forward. My approach is different with every individual, depending on their specific needs. Our problems and feelings are unique and I want to approach my sessions as a team. I believe in creating a space where we can have difficult conversations, work on resolving issues and collaborate on treatment goals that are tailored to your personal needs and experiences. I mostly tend to draw from the client-centered approach when in a therapeutic relationship with my clients but also incorporate a solution-focused approach that incorporates a variety of psychodynamic and evidence-based therapies from cognitive behavioral therapy to faith based. Areas I can help you with: Relationship issues Codependency Depression Anxiety Disorders Dual Diagnosis Trauma Attachment Difficulties Grief and Loss Self-Esteem Body-Image Teens and Family Stress Difficulty Coping Excessive Shame or Guilt Searching for Meaning

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Caitlin Freige

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the states of California, Maine, South Carolina, and Texas with over 7 years of postgraduate experience in the field, with a MSW from the University of Southern California. Prior to providing care on the Better Help platform, I worked as a psychiatric social worker in the second largest jail in the nation. The work I performed at the jail was largely triage and crises management based. I worked the entire frontline of the pandemic, and am witnessing firsthand the effects this pandemic has had on the public's functioning. As a result, my passion shifted from a highly institutionalized setting to getting back into the community where I started. My lens of practice during graduate school included a concentration in children, youth, and families, with a sub-concentration in school social work. The various populations I have served during the past 7 years include those without homes, trauma survivors, families, children, single adult women, single adult men, LGBTQ+ youth and adults, along with the incarcerated male population. Prior to public servant service, I worked with non-profits in the field on ground in Skid Row and the valley area of Los Angeles providing direct mental health services to the unhoused. My approach to therapy can best be described as multimodal grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with a consistent trauma informed care lens. My style of interaction is tailored to the client meaning I will meet you exactly where you are at. Whether you are brand new to therapy or are returning to therapy, I will pace with your needs. We are the experts of our own experiences, and only you know how life has treated you, where you have been, and where you are going. Self-empowerment resides within each of us, and I would be honored to be a part of the journey you seek to establish your best self. Let's get started on you creating your best life!

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Marimar Rosa Monge

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Hello, My name is Marimar Rosa. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Social Work. I am bilingual (Spanish and English). I provide counseling to couples, families, individuals. The age range that I provide counseling services to are teenagers, adults and elders. I would love to communicate with you to help you establish and achieve goals. This could help us work towards improving the quality your life and relationship. I could also help provide support for conflicts in your work environment and create healthy habits to overcome the tension caused by the Pandemic. I am here to help for those times in life where we feel vulnerable, confused and in need of a guidance. I would be honored to help you in this process of healing and improvement.

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Stefanie Huff

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, alcohol/drug abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dr. Robert Phillips

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
50 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 50 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & 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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Dylan Tayag

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & 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.

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Relyn Loiseaux

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Enros Manaligod

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,MFT,IMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuse
8 years of experience

Currently, my availability on BetterHelp is Mondays only. If more availability is required, another provider may better fit your needs. Welcome! My name is Enros, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT). I work with individuals (children, adolescents, and adults), families, and couples. I welcome all families, traditional and non-traditional. I am fully licensed in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Florida, Nevada, Ohio, and Vermont. My specialties include relationships, families, grief, and trauma. Additionally, as a military veteran, I have a unique perspective of veterans: separation, deployment, and the rigors of military life. I approach therapy as a collaborator, not an expert. I find the most joy in learning about you directly from you. Relationships are complicated, especially the relationships that are most important to us. Many of us feel the need for connection, security, and love. However, sometimes we end up hurt and alone. Relational pain can show up as anxiety, fear, depression, or grief, among other things. I firmly believe that relationships, empathy, and humor are the most powerful tools for helping clients experience lasting change. My most significant reward as a professional helper is watching my clients go from despair to possibility. I look forward to working with you!

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Patrick Talbot

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find counseling in Pacifica

Finding the best therapist close by in Pacifica 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 Pacifica. 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 Pacifica, 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica, elsewhere in San Mateo, 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 Pacifica area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica, 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 94044 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica, 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.

Pacifica 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 Pacifica.

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

94044

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