Therapy can be beneficial for almost anybody. A therapist offers both support and tools that can help to heal past trauma, create balance for someone who is feeling emotionally overwhelmed, build connection with others, and even develop a more positive outlook on life in general. 

When it comes to finding a therapist, Encinitas, CA may offer more coastal counseling options than surrounding rural communities, but finding the right therapist can be challenging, even in a city. One reason for this is the high level of specialization within the mental health profession. What you want or need may not necessarily be available nearby. If you are looking to feel heard in a supportive environment after your divorce, the substance use therapist down the street isn’t going to be the best match. Even if you find a clinical practice nearby, it’s not a guarantee that you’ll feel comfortable with the therapist. Or you may find that certain places have waiting lists or are not taking new patients. This is where online therapy can help. 

BetterHelp is an online platform that offers a wide variety of mental health professionals that deal with a range of mental health challenges, specialize in a number of approaches, and are committed to working with diverse populations. Simply fill out an online questionnaire and BetterHelp will match you with the therapist that best meets your needs. And because confidence in a therapeutic alliance can be essential to success, if you need to change therapists you can do so at no additional cost. 

BetterHelp is also a convenient solution for many busy professionals, parents, and students. Online sessions fit easily into any schedule, and with video chat, phone, and text messaging options you can meet with your therapist from the comfort of your own home. 

If you’ve been thinking about therapy for any reason, contact BetterHelp to get started. Or you can check out the list of Encinitas-based online therapists below for more information.

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Psychologist Kathleen Grisez providing different types of therapy in Encinitas

Kathleen Grisez

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 47366
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
30 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma, abuse, & intimacy related issues. I also have experience working with 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!

Psychologist Cynthia Rumford-Jones providing different types of therapy in Encinitas

Cynthia Rumford-Jones

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 102582
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years offering treatment

CONGRATULATIONS!!!! You are in the right place at the right time, and I commend you for your courage and follow-through. My name is Cynthia Rumford-Jones and I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist (LCSW), welcome to my BetterHelp Therapist profile! Life is pretty complex and sometimes presents us with challenges that require support and therapeutic interventions to achieve the balance and overall wellness we may desire . Today is a good day as you have taken one of the most important steps towards elevating your wellness and living a life you love; you are “taking action”. My educational background includes a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from the University of California, Berkeley. I have over 20 years of experience working as a therapist/counselor, and an additional 10 years working in the field of social work and human services, public and private sectors. My specialties include treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and challenges related to life transitions, anger management, relationship issues, family conflict, parenting, and foster care. I am also experienced in grief/loss, eating disorders, and challenges related to divorce and separation, multi-cultural concerns, prejudice and discrimination, and chronic mental illness. CLINICAL APPROACHES My therapy style is warm, supportive, interactive, and empowering. I utilize a client-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy approach with a solution focused perspective, and have training and extensive experience in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), and Multi-Dimensional Treatment Foster Care (MTFC). As a conscientious therapist it is important to me to provide a safe, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment and offer a style and approach that best fits the needs of each individual. I know finding a therapist who is a “good fit” is key to the overall effectiveness and successful outcome of therapy and the task of doing so can be quite arduous. May your mission to find that “good fit” be accomplished swiftly. If you are ready to take the next step, I’m here and looking forward to partnering with you to create a treatment plan with specific and structured goals that meet your specific needs, as well supporting and empowering you as you strive to elevate your wellness. YEARS OF CLINICAL, SOCIAL WORK, and HUMAN SERVICES EXPERIENCE 30 years

Psychologist Giovanni Bass providing different types of therapy in Encinitas

Giovanni Bass

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 121844, AZ LCSW LCSW-21903
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social-Worker with experience treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, and borderline personality. I also provide marital counseling and family consultation. I provide treatment plans that address problems associated with impulse control, anger management, communication, self-awareness, self-esteem, perspective, and negative thought patterns. I have over 5 years of experience and I have treated individuals in various parts of the world, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia. I provide spiritually integrated psychotherapy where the focus is on gaining knowledge of self and developing a relationship with a higher power. I have military experience and I am honored to have had the opportunity to treat many veterans and active duty soldiers suffering from various forms of trauma and adjustment disorders. My approach and treatment modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, rational emotive therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. Each treatment plan is tailored to meet the needs of each soul I interact with. I will support you and help you discover the strength, from within yourself, to fulfill your purpose and to live the life you want to live. Take that first step, and I will take the rest with you!

Psychologist Dr. Susan Graysen providing different types of therapy in Encinitas

Dr. Susan Graysen

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist 11434
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesDepression
30 years offering treatment

I am a licensed doctor of psychology practicing in Beverly Hills for 20+ years. I have a credential from the UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute, Human Sexuality Program. I would very much be available to treat many human sexuality problems which plague relationships and individuals: Disorders of Desire; Arousal Disorders; Relationship Problems which may lead to Lack of Intimacy and/or Confidence. Any of these issues may lead to Depression and/or Anxiety. You do not have to face these problems alone. I am here to listen carefully to you. I have many approaches with which to help you. My approach is a collaborative one. I will give you the tools and insights that make sense to you. You and your needs come first. It is important to me as your therapist that you feel heard!

Psychologist Claudia Smith providing different types of therapy in Encinitas

Claudia Smith

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 11171
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionADHD
40 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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. 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.

Psychologist Eileen Maxwel providing different types of therapy in Encinitas

Eileen Maxwel

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 50173
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with 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!

Psychologist Samantha Nelums providing different types of therapy in Encinitas

Samantha Nelums

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 114779, NM LCSW SWB-2022-1177
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
6 years offering treatment

I have over 6 years of clinical experience as an LCSW and over 14 years of experience as a social work practitioner in working with individuals that have a variety of needs. I use an eclectic approach by integrating different evidence-based intervention techniques to tailor treatment to the individual. I specialize in working with adults on family issues, relationship stressors, sexuality and coming out; and self-esteem/self-trust. I provide feedback and I am directive, therefore I try not to 'just listen and validate' I also like to be engaged in what you are saying.

Psychologist Dr. Linda Blakeley, Ph.D. providing different types of therapy in Encinitas

Dr. Linda Blakeley, Ph.D.

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist PSY14228
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoaching
30 years offering treatment

I am licensed psychologist in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, eating disorders, & 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. 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.

Psychologist Sally Dunn providing different types of therapy in Encinitas

Sally Dunn

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 31028
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
26 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Jasmine Ortiz providing different types of therapy in Encinitas

Jasmine Ortiz

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 143363
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
15 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am also Bilingual in English and Spanish.

Psychologist John Fielder providing different types of therapy in Encinitas

John Fielder

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist 6375
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
40 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with 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. 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.

Psychologist Rachel Howard providing different types of therapy in Encinitas

Rachel Howard

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 89381
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with 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!

Psychologist Evelyn Ruiz providing different types of therapy in Encinitas

Evelyn Ruiz

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 92689
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
9 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with 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!

Psychologist Mitchell Gresham providing different types of therapy in Encinitas

Mitchell Gresham

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 21573
Mental Wellness Specialties: Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changesADHD
10 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring a decade of compassionate mental health experience to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My professional background centers on helping clients navigate family dynamics, process trauma, manage grief, adapt to life transitions, and develop strategies for living with ADHD. I am committed to creating an affirming, inclusive therapeutic space that honors each person's unique identity and lived experience. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding, respect, and collaborative healing. I strive to support clients from diverse backgrounds with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and evidence-based therapeutic techniques. My goal is to walk alongside you as you explore personal growth, build resilience, and develop meaningful coping strategies. I believe in your inherent strength and capacity for transformation, and I'm dedicated to supporting you through your healing journey with genuine care and professional expertise.

Find a Therapist Near You in Encinitas , California

Finding a licensed therapist near you in California can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in California, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in California (CA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across California, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across California with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

When searching for a therapist near me in California, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across California, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across California.

Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in California want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in California without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in California (CA)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in California

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across California, including residents in Encinitas.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in California do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Encinitas can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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