In life, you may feel like your goals are unattainable. No matter how hard you try, it just feels like no one will listen or allow you to live a better life of opportunity. It can be a challenge to voice your thoughts, especially when you have depression or stress. A counselor based in Poway can help. 

Poway is a beautiful town to live in, encapsulating all of what California has to offer. If you want to enjoy the town, speak to California today and learn what you can do. You can improve yourself and be a better person

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Leonardo Garcia

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
15 years of experience

Mental health clinicians assist in promoting mental health well being of others however, we also assist clients to connect themselves through their body, mind, and spirit. In observing my client’s psychological growth during their treatment is a wonderful and rewarding experience that confirms the level of strength and resilience they have. Unfortunately, starting psychotherapy treatment can be a struggle in itself. Allow me to assist you in dealing with this delicate and tedious process to overcome this difficult time in your life. My experience is made up of working with teens and their families for the past 15 years. I have experience providing individual therapy and family therapy. I provide services in both English and Spanish. I am committed to working with people from diverse ethnic backgrounds, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, and religious beliefs. Working in the mental health field has been my passion since 2004. As a strength-based clinician, I have had the opportunity and privilege to assist people in the process of bringing stability and healing to their lives, by helping them to find and recognize their own inner strengths and applying it to their daily lives. I employ an in-depth therapeutic approach, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to provide short-term, and effective symptom reduction. Additionally, for longer-term treatment, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and other treatment modalities tailored to each particular client.

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Dr. Carole Matlen

Offering therapy in CA
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesEating disorders
20 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California for over 20 years . I have a teaching and ministry background that I also bring to help you. I have worked in many different clinical settings that affords me a wide, accepting, thoughtful view of helping people. I have a commitment to helping in the areas of increased levels of anger, anxiety and depression, eating disorders, body dysmorphia, women independence and empowerment, domestic violence (men as well as women as victims), grieving and loss, family dysfunction (conflict resolution, isolation and abandonment, parenting problems ), sexual abuse, emotional and physical trauma, and relationship issues (separation, divorce, death of a spouse). My way of helping is to foster your strengths and self confidence. I have used Cognitive Behavioral (" here and now" reality based) , Humanistic (client-centered) , Psychodynamic( your beginning emotional roots), Mindfulness, Trauma Focused Therapy , Existential Therapy approaches in a combined way that "suits just you." I look forward to working with you , as a team, to help make your life much better!

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Sandra Terifaj

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepression
35 years of experience

Hello, I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 35 years of experience in private practice and the training/supervision of interns at various non profit agencies. I am committed in helping you find healing, resolution and growth by guiding you within a safe environment in accessing the emotional pain/obstacles that are holding you back from living the life you fully want to live. My approach is to work collaboratively with you by using interventions based on your needs, including Client-Centered, Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral.

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Cynthia Fullwood-Fleck

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in the states California and North Carolina, as an LMFT, 20+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, sex education, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Kirsten Angeliyan

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Southern California. My experience comes from providing direct mental health and behavioral counseling for younger and older adults with a variety of presenting issues including depression, suicidal ideation, bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD, co-dependency, attachment issues, and persistent mental health issues. I approach the therapeutic relationship with a sensitivity and respect for multicultural and social factors. My clinical experience includes working with marginalized populations, homeless individuals, individuals re-entering from incarceration and individuals living with chronic mental health challenges. I also have experience working with individuals in a healthcare setting with work stress, relationship issues, communication issues, and anger management issues. My therapy style and approach draws influence from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, Gestalt, and Narrative Therapy approaches. My communication style is warm, direct, and transparent. My hope is to get to know your communication style so we can work collaboratively to get you to mental wellness - and to do so in a way that makes sense to you. Outside of the therapy room, I am usually cooking up a new cultural dish, keeping up with NBA stats, and spending time with my dogs in the woods. I look forward to the privilege of getting to know who you are and to partnering with you towards feeling better. Change can happen when you give it a chance.

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Nga Francyne (Francyne) Nguyen

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

Therapy is a healing process that allows us to trust ourselves and empowers us to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Therapy can serve as the light in darkness and can guide us with what we need to live our highest potential. I provide a warm, accepting, and safe environment to explore and learn how to navigate life's challenges. I provide an integrative and holistic approach that focuses on all aspects of one's self (emotional, behavioral, mental, spiritual). I am licensed in California with over 7 years of professional work experience in community mental health agencies, health care agencies, and school settings. I have also taught yoga for over 7 years and have developed the yoga therapy component for teen and elementary groups in school settings. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. My therapy style and approach draws from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. I believe that each individual has strengths in overcoming challenges. I hope to help you heal and find your inner peace. You do not have to walk alone. Taking the initial step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Autumn Byers

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
18 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Bettyjean Weser

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 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Walter Curtis

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Julianne Moreno

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I became a therapist in 2013 after my own personal journey with therapy, so I believe in the process! I have learned and benefitted from incredible therapists who have partnered with me throughout the years, and I truly believe that therapy can be life changing. Some of the key aspects are trust between a therapist and client so that honesty and true reflection can take place. Directness, authenticity, understanding, and compassion are all key characteristics I bring into session, with a genuine desire to support you in reaching the goals you're seeking to achieve. I look forward to working with you!

How to find counseling in Poway

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Poway 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 Poway 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 Poway 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 Poway, 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 Poway 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 Poway 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 Poway 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 Poway 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 Poway 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 92074 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 Poway 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 Poway 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 Poway, 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.

Poway 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 Poway.

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

92064, 92074

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