Your mental state can feel like a library at times. You just can’t seem to find the information you're looking for, and when you search, it feels as though everything you want is checked out. As you search, you want to find a good librarian to assist you so you can find a way to stop your depression, anxiety, and other problems you're dealing with. 

A counselor based in Simi Valley can be the person who helps. Simi Valley is known for the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. Your mind can feel even bigger than that library, and if you want to search, a counselor can help.

This is Judy Thompson's avatar and link to their profile

Judy Thompson

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflicts
10 years of experience

Hello. My name is Judy Thompson. I have been a licensed marriage and family therapist since 2015. My communication style is supportive and educational. My approaches include, Cognitive Behavioral (good for improving self-esteem), Family Systems(good for understanding relationship dynamics, and Motivational Interviewing (good for facing persistent negative choices) . I offer 30 - 45 minute sessions. Subscribers typically schedule sessions once a week, but are welcome to schedule more frequently.

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Amanda Rizo

Offering therapy in CA
License: LPCC,MS
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am passionate about inspiring my clients to embrace and allow their wellbeing. The short-cut to happiness is the deliberate intention of only feeling good. I help clients cultivate authentic relationships in their lives; both with themselves and others. I provide a safe environment for clients to explore their true selves. I guide clients in mastering the process of creating their own reality and I can guide them in seeing the powerful beings they are. I support my clients in living enriched and empowered lives. Life can be easy, fun, and blissful. I will join clients in inspired co-creation of their wellbeing. Let’s uncover the abundance in your life to manifest your desires!

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Dawn Chandler

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT,CDC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
35 years of experience

You can read more about my background, education, experience, and therapy approach by clicking on my name above our messages. You are one step closer to keeping that promise to yourself about gaining control of your unwanted patterns or behaviors. Every client has a story to tell and specific needs that bring them to therapy. Together we will develop and focus on understanding the forces that drive the need for those patterns or behaviors. Everyone has struggles in their life and everyone needs help along the way. I hold an MS in Counseling Psychology, Addiction Specialist, and CCTP, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I myself have 35 years of recovery and have 30 years working in the field of counseling, Trauma, and Addiction. I use a collective approach which means I draw from all forms of therapy. I match and adjust to my client's needs. My passion in life is to instill hope in my clients that they may reach their goals of change. I enjoy working with individuals, families, and groups that are motivated towards regaining balance and change in one's life. Together we will develop strategies and coping skills to help you reach emotional and physical freedom. I am compassionate about this work and feel I was called to do this work and to help others experience the world as an individual and in a collective way.

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(Gary) Trent Allen

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMHC,CPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience

My name is Trent and I’m glad to help you work through these issues that you’ve brought today. I’m a client centered solution focused therapist and would love to focus on what your dreams and aspirations are. I would start by asking the miracle question to determine if you woke up tomorrow and your life was perfect and everything you wanted was how you hoped it would be then I would you describe that life for me. Moving forward from there we can work on your goals around the things that you’d like to work on first and prioritize those goals and come up with solutions, copy mechanisms, and strategies to get you to where you would like to be. Life is fulfilled and determined by you and your supportive work and meaningful interactions that you you are looking for and brought to me today. Once we establish a treatment plan based your goals then we can work through them one at time to achieve them. We will consistently check in and see how you are feeling about your progress and re-assess the treatment plan as needed. We can add goals as well moving forward if you determine through the process that there are further things you would like to work on. Initially when doing therapeutic work things can initially feel worse before they feel better so please check in and tell me how you feel the process is working for you. Your feedback to me as we progress is my way to adjust your treatment plan and make sure that your therapeutic goals are being met. I look forward to working with you. I am professional counselor licensed for private practice in WA state as an LMHC with many years providing experience to a very diverse population which an array of mental health concerns. I have worked in non-profit mental health with the severely mentally ill, homeless and substance abuse population for many years. I have also worked in a correctional setting with forensic patients and have practice with residential programs as well. I have a client centered approach to counseling and employ a variety of tools in my "counselor tool belt" to assist my patients with concerns and symptoms they may want help with. I have used solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy and trauma focused therapy. My approach to always meet patients where they are at and provide unconditional acceptance and positive regard to provide a safe environment for people grow, heal and move on what they have brought to the session to work through. I have worked with anxiety and depressive symptoms, PTSA, trauma, personality disorders, Bipolar disorders, Schizoaffective and Schizophrenia disorders to name a few. I look forward to forming a positive therapeutic relationship with you and helping you to grow and become whatever it is you are wanting to be.

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Amye Cole

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & 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. 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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Dr. Shay Groenewold

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteem
8 years of experience

I am licensed as a psychologist in California and New York, and registered as an out-of-state telehealth provider with the state of Florida. I have over a decade of professional education, training, and work experience in clinical and forensic settings. I strive to provide tailored support for my clients as they address issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, past trauma, communication issues, anger management, symptoms of serious mental illness, adjustment and decision-making issues, and relationship problems. Using an individualized, nonjudgmental approach, I will work with you collaboratively on building support, creating healthy independence, developing self-compassion and self-acceptance, clarifying values, and identifying goals for improving coping, fulfillment, and self-concept.

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Donna Dover

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemADHD
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Socialworker in the State of California with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have worked with clients coping with addictions, LGBTQI+ related issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, anxiety, life transitions, depression, ADHD 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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Marianna Birdsong

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Greetings, I'm Marianna Birdsong, an LCSW situated in Southern California, offering telehealth services statewide. My practice specializes in aiding adults facing anxiety, stress, and life transitions through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Client-Centered Therapy, tailored to meet individual needs. I believe therapy should be customized for each client. I primarily employ CBT and Client-Centered Therapy but remain flexible to adapt techniques as required. My path to becoming a therapist has been diverse, encompassing roles such as an Emergency Medical Technician, and peer counselor. Through these experiences, I've developed a deep appreciation for helping others achieve personal growth and self-awareness.

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Mark Dunn

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
26 years of experience

I am licensed in California and North Carolina with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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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Deonia Young

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of California with 5 years of clinical experience. I identify as Christian and have been a practicing social worker for nearly 20 years. I have therapeutic experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflict, grief and loss, 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. My warm and flexible, integrated approach to therapy draws upon therapeutic components found within Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy to support you in reaching your personal treatment goals. Taking the first step to sign up for or return to therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started in your journey of personal growth.

How to find counseling in Simi Valley

Finding the best therapist close by in Simi Valley 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 Simi Valley. 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 Simi Valley, 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 Simi Valley 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 Simi Valley 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 Simi Valley, elsewhere in Ventura, 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 Simi Valley area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Simi Valley 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 Simi Valley 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 Simi Valley 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 Simi Valley, 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 Simi Valley 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 Simi Valley 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 Simi Valley 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 Simi Valley 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 Simi Valley 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 93063 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 Simi Valley 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 Simi Valley 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 Simi Valley, 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.

Simi Valley 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 Simi Valley.

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

93062, 93063, 93065, 93094, 93099

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