Solana Beach is a quiet coastal town, but even so everyone has their troubles. Even though the coastal city of Solana Beach is quiet and peaceful most of the time, people are bound to run into problems in their personal lives. You do not have to suffer through these troubles alone.

Counselors in the Solana Beach area are available to talk to you about your personal, mental or emotional troubles. They can provide support and coping skills to help you through any time in your life. Contact a therapist to get started.

This is Haesue Jo's avatar and link to their profile

Haesue Jo

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in the Bay Area, California. My experience comes from providing direct mental health and behavioral counseling for kids, teens, and adults with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, relationship and family issues, trauma, community violence, gender identity, and depression. I approach the therapeutic relationship with an acute sensitivity and respect for multi/cross-cultural factors. Much of my clinical experience includes working with Asian-American youth, families, and adults given my firsthand experience navigating generational and cultural differences in my own family (a mixture of immigrants and Asian-Americans). Representation for minority groups in the broader world of mental health is still very small, and my own professional goals include creating more intersection between my personal knowledge of eastern cultures and professional experience in providing mental health support. My experience is varied and across settings, as I have provided individual and family therapy in community mental health agencies, research centers, school settings, and day treatment facilities. I believe that we are all products of our closest relationships, our environment, our family systems, and every moment that leads to the present us. I strive to treat the therapeutic relationship, and you, with compassion, respect, and warmth. My therapy style and approach draws influence from Gestalt, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Structural systems. A top priority for me is to meet you where you are and calibrate treatment and my approach to what will work best for us as we work together to meet your goals. Whether you are working towards enlightenment and insight or symptom-relief and improved function, my hope is that we can collaboratively work together to achieve it! It takes a lot of strength and will power to work towards a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. Education BA in Psychology, UCLA MA in Counseling Psychology, Santa Clara University Professional Affiliations and Credentials California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists Certified Trauma-Informed Therapist by the California Center of Excellence for Trauma Informed Care

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Camilla Ford

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

Hi there! I applaud your courage in reaching out. I am a Licenced Marriage and Family Therapist with 25 years experience working with individuals, children, couples and families. I am a Stanford graduate with a Master's in Psychology from California Institute of Integral Studies. I offer compassionate listening, presence and guidance for people in crisis, transition, or who are seeking healing, growth, clarity, and connection. All communications are confidential. My experience covers a spectrum of clients and settings. I have provided therapy in day treatment facilities, schools, hospitals, and in private practice. I take a Humanistic/person centered approach to therapy and strongly believe that you have the tools you need to heal and achieve your goals, and that I can help support you in this process. I focus on your strengths and am a supportive and empathetic listener. My therapy style is collaborative in which you and I work together to discover creative solutions to presenting problems. My work draws from the counseling theories and styles of Carl Rogers, Virginia Satir and Murray Bowen. Seeking help takes courage. I honor this and will treat you with the respect and warmth you deserve. I am here to help you "live well and be happy"!

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Elizabeth Santiago

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
15 years of experience

Hello and welcome! Thank you for your interest in working with me. I have been providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families since 2007. Educated at Antioch University, Los Angeles, I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in a range of settings. My specialties include women's issues, specifically Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD/PMD), anxiety/panic attacks, depression, grief & loss, marital/relationship issues, trauma, divorce/separation, and more. My approach is solution-focused where I focuses on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques with a client-centered approach considering cultural, social, and psychosocial influences. I believe you are the expert in your life and together we can work to improve your functioning using your strengths. I look forward to working with you!

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Claudia Young

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Northern California with over 14 years experience in the mental health field. I obtained a Master's Degree from California State University, Chico. My nature is to offer an empathic attuned presence. I have an energetic and dynamic personality. My therapy style is non judgemental, energetic and warm. My focus for all clients is to provide a safe , inviting place to hold space. My priority is to meet each client where they are, encourage and support them in guiding their treatment. My hope is to be the place where a client can reflect, process and proceed in being their best selves, meeting their potential, finding peace, fulfillment and satisfaction in life. I also priotize providing a trauma informed approach. I have worked with clients of varying backgrounds, cultures and ethnicities. I have training in play therapy with very young children, as well as training in treating depression and anxiety, trauma focused cognitive behavior therapy. I also have obtained EMDR training. I have worked with families, children, couples and individuals who have experienced various concerns, including anxiety, depression, low motivation, adjustment issues, life changes and stressors, relationship issues, divorce, conflict and career changes. I look forward to working with you.

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Sharon Watson

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping 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 depression, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, and self-esteem and confidence 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.

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John Vangerov

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsFamily conflictsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with addictions, family relationships, coping with grief and loss, anxiety and 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 and empower you in that journey.

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Natalie Alepin

Offering therapy in CA
License: LPCC,LPC,MA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionADHD
27 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio and California and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri and Arizona with 28 years of experience working in crisis, outpatient and inpatient settings. I have worked with clients from 3 to the 90's with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, anger management, career challenges, existential crisis, and ADHD. I also helped many people with debilitating medical illnesses and chronic pain. I am flexible and available for reality therapy if requested. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with unconditional positive regard. I am respectful, sensitive, and compassionate. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, mindfulness and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. You are taking steps towards change and I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

This is Maxwell Sleep-Frankel's avatar and link to their profile

Maxwell Sleep-Frankel

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, who has had over a decade experience working with older adults and adults primarily with disabilities, helping them to navigate life transitions and grief/loss. I utilize a person-centered approach infused with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help patients navigate these transitions and losses, as well as other mental health issues and addictions throughout adulthood. I'm also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional II (CCTP-II) and Certified Grief Professional (CGP), and incorporate a trauma and grief informed approach into my work with clients. I have also received a certification in Addiction Treatment in Military & Veteran Culture from the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC), and welcome military members, veterans, their families or anyone struggling with addiction. I received my B.A. from Indiana University in Philosophy and Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Science, my Masters in Social Work at the University of Chicago, and am currently enrolled in a Doctor of Social Work program the University of Alabama. I look forward to helping you grow and reach your goals as part of our work together in therapy.

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Marcus Christmas

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

This is Brandy Spindel's avatar and link to their profile

Brandy Spindel

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find counseling in Solana Beach

Finding the best therapist close by in Solana Beach can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Solana Beach. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Solana Beach, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Solana Beach or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Solana Beach area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Solana Beach, 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 Solana Beach area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Solana Beach therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Solana Beach due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Solana Beach may not take health insurance, some in the state of California may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Solana Beach, California working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Solana Beach above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Solana Beach helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Solana Beach therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Solana Beach therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Solana Beach therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in CA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 92014 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 Solana Beach counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Solana Beach licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Solana Beach, California can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Solana Beach has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Solana Beach.

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

92014, 92075

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