Mental health care can be beneficial for almost anyone, for many different reasons. A therapist offers a supportive space and tools to deal with communication issues, learn healthy boundaries, manage stress, and facilitate personal growth.
When it comes to finding a therapist, Santee, Ca may offer more options than surrounding rural areas, but finding the right therapist can be challenging, even in a city. One reason for this is that there are a large number of therapeutic approaches, and client centered therapy can mean finding the right approach for you. For example, a doctoral level therapist may practice right on your street, but they specialize in family therapy, and you want help with a mood disorder. What you want or need may not be available nearby. Some offices may not take your insurance, and don’t offer sliding scale fees. Others may have waiting lists, or may not be taking new patients at all. This is where online therapy can help.
BetterHelp is an online platform that gives you access to a wide variety of online-based therapists in Santee, CA with professional experience in a broad range of therapeutic approaches, and experience offering quality care to diverse populations. Whether you need an associate professional clinical counselor with experience in gender affirming care, or an associate marriage counselor that specializes in divorce, simply fill out an online questionnaire and BetterHelp will match you with the therapist that best meets your needs. And because a strong 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 live in the Southern California area and have been thinking about therapy for any reason, contact BetterHelp to get started. You can also check out the list of online-based therapists below for more information.
Emily Schwimmer
Hello! Good for you reaching out for support today. You are taking a big, worthwhile step! I've been practicing for over 25 years in Sunny Southern California working with adult individuals and couples. My experience is working with mild issues and symptoms around stress, anxiety and feelings of sadness, life transitions and career issues, grief and relationship issues, focusing more on the present and moving forward. I provide a safe space to explore and process the feelings and issues you are experiencing. It's not about getting rid of your feelings but rather learning how to manage them in a more healthy way; learning how to have your thoughts and feelings work together rather than against each other! It's usually best to work through your issues rather than ignoring them or trying to push them aside. I want to help you live a more joyful life and experience fulfilling relationships. My style would be best described as eclectic. It's based loosely on the foundation of cognitive-behavioral theories and then adapts to each person's unique needs utilizing my experience, empathy and compassion to help you move forward in life. I find that weekly phone calls are the most beneficial with the option of brief messaging in-between appointments if you like. Please do not make any appointments on the platform's calendar before we discuss it. Please note I don't work with EAP subscribers or those submitting bills to an insurance company For those subscribers that are interested, I also focus on the mind-body connection, which includes learning how to live more in the moment. Living more in the moment, rather than being stuck in the past or worried about the future, makes life all the more peaceful and joyful. Mind/body connection exercises for example, include deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation (tensing and releasing different muscle groups), guided imagery and mindful walking ( a more active form of meditation). All these exercises can help achieve the body's Relaxation Response - physically relaxed and mentally alert. It's what I like to call, "Calm Energy." Research has shown that the Relaxation Response helps in the Reduction of pain, stress, anxiety, fatigue, irritability as well as reducing blood pressure and the stress hormone levels in our bodies. It's been shown to help Increase energy, motivation, productivity and improve decision-making abilities. Although we won't be working face-to-face, you can still learn and benefit from these exercises through instructive emails and/or telephone sessions.
Stacey Sugar
“Anyone can tell you what to do, but the true ability to grow comes from understanding who you are.” In 15 years of clinical practice, I've realized that within our uniqueness, we have one thing in common: We are all constantly writing our life stories. Many of us are passive biographers, believing that our book is already written, and that the ending is set in stone. Here's the secret: Our lives are not linear, and we have the power to edit our narrative at any--and every--moment. While we cannot change our past, we can learn to change our perspective of it. Once we unlock our unconscious defenses, we gain insight about who we've become and unleash the potential to transform into who we authentically want to be. When entering any new relationship, it is perfectly healthy--and encouraged-- to take the time you need to test it out and make sure it feels right. I promise to meet you where you are, and provide you with the tools to explore yourself deeper and make transformations at your own pace. I will support you to find the strength and motivation that will allow you to be more open and committed to making the changes you desire. In our time together, we will explore the full range of your emotions, including feelings that you may not be aware of--yet! Bringing these unconscious elements into your present experience offers you a series of a-ha moments that lay the foundation for greater self-awareness and enable you to live your best life. If you're ready to dig deep, it is my honor to join you on your journey. Let's remove the barriers that are blocking you from realizing your wants, needs, and actualizing your full potential!
Dr. James Decker
I am licensed in California with 45 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Grant Grover
Hello, life is beautiful!! I know we may not always feel that way and if you need help to feel that way again, let me help you. I have over 25 years experience in helping people reach their goals in life. I am compassionate, positive, and love helping people see how amazing they are. We all have minds that help us, but often get in the way of our ability to see and create the joy in life that we seek. I love helping people understand their competencies, self-worth and strengths and how they can use these to achieve there goals in a lasting way. I take great joy in seeing clients who have partnered with me in the growth process, years after counseling, who have had lasting changes that have increased throughout the years. I want you to be one of those people. I have worked with people of all ages. I have been trained as an expert in addictions , depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress, relationship issues, religious issues, and grief and loss while working for the State of California. I have worked with mild, moderate and severe mental health challenges, including over five years working with in patient hospitalization. I have been highly effective in a private practice and I know how to treat client's who need short term or long term therapy that can take years with very good outcomes. I use a Client Centered approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and ACT-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness training as well as various other modalities as needed. I love the truths of Jesus Christ as taught in various churches around the world. I love working with people who want therapy that can include a respect for their religious beliefs in the therapeutic process. I also help people with religious issues as they relate to Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Various Addictions and Religious Preoccupation and Perseveration as well as Spiritual Abuse and its effects on families, individuals and couples. I work with people from all faiths. I am an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I look forward to supporting you in receiving the therapy you need in an environment that will aid you in using your religious beliefs as strengths to help you on your journey. I look forward to helping you meet your goals!
Marlo Lewis
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist. I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Psychology from California State University, Hayward in 2002 and a Master's of Social Work from California State University, East Bay in 2008. I offer a supportive environment where we can work together to increase your happiness and emotional wellness. It takes strength and courage to facilitate change. My passion is helping clients overcome obstacles and barriers so they can enjoy their best selves. Together, we will work to uncover and resolve underlying issues that are causing negative feelings and develop new thought patterns and behaviors to help enhance your mental and emotional wellbeing. We will also focus on establishing your personal goals, make adjustments as needed and develop a plan to achieve them together. Let's plant and nurture the seed of hope as a part of your journey.
Javier Zuniga
I am licensed in California with 26 years of professional work experience. I am fluently bilingual in Spanish and English. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & anger management. I have worked with many clients in various stages of life and have helped them get through some tough situations. I believe you are the expert of your story and you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming obstacles that challenge you. Seeking help takes courage so I commend you for your courage. I am glad you are making a choice to live a more fulfilling life and I am here to support you in that process.
Jasmine Ortiz
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.
Ashby "Brooks" Larsen
I am licensed in California and Utah with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with 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.
Joseph Tillman
As a licensed therapist with extensive experience serving diverse communities in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address challenging life experiences, including depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and grief. I bring a compassionate and nuanced approach to therapy, particularly focusing on men's mental health, self-love, and healing from attachment wounds. My work is deeply rooted in understanding individual journeys of isolation, purpose, and personal transformation. Drawing from four decades of clinical experience, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions like guilt and shame, and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. My therapeutic style emphasizes empowerment, respect, and collaborative healing. I am committed to providing culturally responsive care that honors each person's unique background and lived experience. My goal is to support you in building resilience, understanding yourself more deeply, and creating positive change in your life.
Dr. Malcolm Stanislaus
I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with shame-based issues, trauma and abuse, depression, spiritual bypass, & executive and professional coaching. 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!
Erik Tootell
I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, depression, concentration, & memory. I also have experience working with focus. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Brenda Palacios
I am licensed marriage and family therapist in California with 15 years of experience. I have worked with helping individuals manage the complexities of positively handling family conflict, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, and coping with life changes. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. I believe in treating everyone with respect, kindness, and compassion. I will modify our interactions and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. If I have the pleasure of working with you, I strive to challenge you to positively reframe the trials of life. I congratulate you on taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and joyful life. I am here to support you in that process. And I look forward to teaming with you in reaching your mental health goals.
Belinda Nunez
I have dedicated myself over the 20 years to providing efficient, empathetic, and supportive services to countless clients with various needs and circumstances from differing backgrounds and of various ages. I have worked with children in the foster system, immigration, teens on probation, babies and parents struggling with attachment, victims of domestic violence, older adults with memory loss, individuals of all ages diagnosed with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities and countless other mental health needs in various social/family/ environmental circumstances. I currently also serve as a supervisor for other clinicians. I have many years of experience in providing therapy via Telehealth.
Michael Gallese
I've spent over a decade working in behavioral health — as a BHT, case manager, and substance abuse counselor — before becoming a licensed therapist. That background means I understand what it actually looks like when someone is struggling, not just what it looks like on paper. I work with adults, couples, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-esteem challenges. My approach is direct and collaborative. I'm not here to just listen and nod — I'm here to help you understand what's driving your patterns and actually do something about it. That means honest conversations, real feedback, and work that continues outside the session. If you've tried therapy before and felt like something was missing, or if you're skeptical it can work for you, that's exactly the kind of client I tend to connect with best.
Find a Therapist Near You in Santee , 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:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
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:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in California (CA)
- 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 Santee.
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.