Life can be like an island. Sometimes, it’s a nice retreat you can enjoy and live a fun life under the sun. Other times, you may feel stranded with no place to go. In a situation such as that one, who can help you? Anxiety, depression, and other life problems can make you stranded. However, a counselor based in Alameda can help. 

Alameda is known as the Island City. Everyone has their own island, and it can paradise or purgatory. A counselor can help improve your mental state and you can make your own island feel a little more like a beach worth exploring. 

This is Andrea McLellan's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MA,LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Parenting issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 10

"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." — Ralph Waldo Emerson In my journey, I have learned that the roots of our disharmony must be identified – we must become aware of the underlying causes of our problematic issues before we can recover our authentic self. For many years, before becoming a licensed MFT (Marriage and Family Therapist), I was a criminal investigator, assigned to a Special Victims Unit, where I looked closely into the lives of people harmed, both physically and emotionally, within th...

This is Sarina Grant's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MS, LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Eating disorders, Self esteem, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 4

Hello! My name is Sarina Grant. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in the state of California. Although my license is titled "marriage and family," I work mostly with individuals. For over three years, it has been my mission to help others with concerns such as anxiety, eating disorders, relationship conflicts, family discord, depression, major life changes, and trauma. Throughout the process, I aim to be a safe and sturdy platform for you to stand on, keeping you secure as you explore the issues most important to you. My goal is to hear you, ...

This is Dr. Amy Clayton's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): PsyD,LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Relationship issues, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 21

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California with a Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology. I have been working as a therapist for over 21 years. I have worked in outpatient as well as inpatient settings, including hospitals, clinics, group homes, and private practice. Many of my clients are high achieving people who find themselves surprised to be struggling with a problem. By drawing upon their strengths, I assist them in making meaningful changes that can make a significant difference in their lives. My clients bring a wide range of conce...

This is Dr. Capri Cruz's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LPC
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Grief, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 8

My first inclination that I was called to be a mental health therapist was at age 11. Since then I've gone on to receive my PhD in Mental Health Counseling, and a degree in Hypnotherapy. I completed my internship at a women's residential substance abuse facility assisting women to increase their self-esteem, self-worth, self-image, process their trauma and grief, manage their anxiety and depression, and taught various life skills. I then went on to work in an out-patient substance abuse facility with clients struggling with addiction, trauma, rejection, comorbidit...

This is Leslie Sigala's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: LGBT, Trauma and abuse, Parenting issues, Self esteem, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 10

I am Licensed Marriage and Family in California for 10 years with experience of individual and family therapy. I have worked with clients with a wide range of experience including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, with experience Child Trauma, Post Partum, Immigration and Domestic Violence. My modalities are psychodynamic therapy, Trauma Focused- CFT, Cognitive, Behavioral, Child Parent Psychotherapy and Infant Parent psychotherapy modalities. My counseling experience is warm and interactive. I am a woman of color, I believe in treatin...

This is MAIDA FERRAES's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, LGBT, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 6

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California (LMFT) and I have been working in the counseling field since 2017. I have experience conducting individual and group therapy, in-office and both residential and outpatient settings with clients presenting with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship and parenting issues, teen concerns, and a wide range of challenges including grief/loss, insomnia, addiction, trauma, abuse, bipolar, as well as personal growth, adjustment issues, and crisis. In my work with clients, I use some leading psycholog...

This is Liliana Huichapan's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MSW,LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Family conflicts, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 17

Hello! If you are exploring Better Help, you may be experiencing some difficulties in your life, and you're looking for a counselor to help you sort through things, I want to help. Let me tell you a little about myself to help you decide if I may be a good fit for you. My name is Liliana Huichapan, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in California. I have over 17 years of professional experience that include trauma, abuse, and criminal justice systems, both pre-trial and post-conviction. I've been providing psychotherapy for a wide range of iss...

This is Kim Connolly's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Grief
Years of Experience: 35

Hello, If you are reading this, you are considering taking a deeper look at your life and maybe even making some changes! It takes courage to walk down that path, but you will not walk alone. I can walk beside you. My name is Kim. I am a seasoned therapist who has been in the mental health field for over 30 years. Most of that time has been in the nonprofit world. I have had the privilege of working with multitudes of folks, some short term, most long term. In that time, I have worked with a very wide variety of client concerns including personal growth, depressi...

This is Elaine Mills's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT,MA
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Depression, ADHD
Years of Experience: 6

Welcome to BetterHelp, and thank you for reading my profile. I hope you will find I am a good fit for you. My name is Elaine Mills, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I earned my Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from National University in 2012. I have been working in the field for over eight years, licensed for four. My work history is in a variety of settings with individuals, couples, and families, including an eating disorders program, an intensive respite program for at risk adolescents, and on base for mili...

This is Joe Navarro 's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MS,LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Grief, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 27

Throughout my many years as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been committed to providing the highest level of professional and compassionate care when serving individuals during their most difficult life challenges. I tailor my approach to therapy based on the unique needs of each person I get the privilege to help. My mission is to help you gain healthy balance so you may enjoy positive relationships, fulfill your life’s purpose and achieve your highest potential. I work with clients from a strength based focus while providing a safe, non-judg...

This is Yolanda Rosas's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 20

Welcome! Sometimes it takes a lot of courage to reach out for help and I am so glad you have made your way here. "In life we will suffer", some experiences knock us down and shake us around a bit. Like you, I too have suffered greatly and have been knocked around in life. Because of this experience, I believe that each of us have the strength we need inside of us to find solutions to the problems and difficulties we face in life. Faith, in my life was a great help and applying it every day became a powerful healing process that I continue to live by today. ...

This is Amy Hatcher's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Parenting issues, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 12

Hello and welcome! My name is Amy Hatcher, and I am a military veteran, career firefighter/EMT, licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), and soon to be Doctor of Psychology (PsyD). But don't let the fancy titles and acronyms daunt you! That all just means by education, training, experience, and a genuine desire to help people, I will do my best to be the clinician you need. My approach to therapy is both integrative and holistic, where all aspects of the person – physical, mental, emotional, and behavioral - are addressed. I have worked in a multitud...

This is Dr. Katherine Walker's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): PhD
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Trauma and abuse, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Years of Experience: 32

Hello! I am a newly retired middle-aged female who worked for a large health care organization for over 30 years both as a therapist and a manager. During my career there I had a chance to work with a wide variety of clients ranging from those with serious mental illness (Bipolar, Schizophrenic) to those that were coping with life issues such as divorce, loss, or job stress. I completed my undergraduate degree at UC Berkeley and then (after a brief hiatus working as a respiratory therapist) attended graduate school at the California School of Professional Psych...

This is Lily Kotila's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): M.A.,M.A.T.,PhD(c)
Therapy Specialties: Addictions, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief
Years of Experience: 17

Prior to becoming a Therapist, I was a High School Biology Teacher and a Peer Mediation Specialist. I have been practicing therapy since 2005. I graduated from Alliant International University in 2006. I attended The International School of Professional Studies where I received a PhD(c) in Spiritual and Somatic Psychology. I am trained in EMDR, EFT, Energy Psychology and Hypnosis. I was also trained in Domestic Violence. As for my therapeutic theoretical approach, I ground myself in EMDR and pull from other eclectic modalities. I have been in private practice ...

This is John Marman's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 5

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Amanda Chavez's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Intimacy-related issues
Years of Experience: 12

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with intimacy related issues. 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.

This is Harvey Hyman's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Trauma and abuse, Sleeping disorders, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 4

I am licensed as an LPCC in California and have 4 years of professional clinical counseling experience. My specific training, and clinical work is focused on helping adult clients heal their deep wounds from childhood trauma. This transforms how they perceive themselves, others, and the world, and enables them to think more accurately, regulate their emotions better, function better, and lead more enjoyable and fulfilling lives. As trauma survivors heal, they stop living in fear and flashing back to terrifying memories, numbing themselves with depression or disso...

This is Dr. Andrew Mendonsa's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, LGBT, Grief, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 17

I am licensed in various states with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. There isn't much I have not seen and helped folks through. My professional background has included working within criminal justice settings, psychiatric settings, community mental health, with high-wealth clients, everyday folks, and folks from all walks of life. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion...

This is Martina Cisnernos's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Addictions, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Intimacy-related issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 19

I am licensed in Texas and California with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. 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.

This is Melinda Clark's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alameda, California (Alameda, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Anger management, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 5

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with anger management & coping with life changes. 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.

Having A Hard Time Selecting A Mental Health Professional In Alameda?

Finding the right therapist can feel intimidating. However, there are a few methods you can try to narrow your search for a counselor in the Alameda area if you find it challenging to find therapists accepting new clients.

First, research what type of therapy you'd like to pursue before finding a therapist or psychologist. You might be interested in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, marriage and family therapy, or couples therapy. Each therapy can offer various benefits. If you're still unsure, consider asking your prospective therapists which methods they practice.

When you're ready to search, search for 'therapist near me in Alameda and scroll through the options. Next, consider your goals for the gender of your therapist, the type of therapy they're most experienced with, and their specialty. Finally, choose a therapist located near you in the city of Alameda or elsewhere in Alameda or the state of California.

Mental health professionals working through private practice or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships and communication skills, working through life's obstacles, or changing negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a listening ear and validation. Verified Alameda therapists can provide licensed marriage and compassionate counseling, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

What Is The Cost Difference Between Conventional Therapy And BetterHelp? 

Forbes reports that the average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Alameda due to a higher cost of living.

Some therapists 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 therapists serving the city of Alameda and elsewhere throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $60 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks).


Did You Know BetterHelp Therapists Are Not Limited To In-Person Visits?

Online therapists, including the US-based therapists above, can work with people like you in or around Alameda to offer creative forms of communication and treatment. You do not have to commute to a therapist's office to meet with one of these counselors.

Through BetterHelp, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, receive worksheets, and sign up for mental health webinars. Additionally, the BetterHelp app offers a journaling feature.

Suppose you're struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists specializing in behavioral health and relationships. You can also try a provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. Look through the available therapists above and consider which might work for you.

San Jose has many professionals who provide client-centered individual counseling in person and through online therapy. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with therapists all over the US. Many individuals gain further insight into their lives through internet-based counseling. In Alameda, therapy can be easily accessible and a click away.


How To Know If Therapy Is Right For You?

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 they may struggle to provide objective guidance as a therapist can. Therapists are also professionals trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A therapist may support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health or life concerns. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another benefit of therapy is having a 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 San Jose 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 can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With almost one million people in Alameda, CA, finding a therapist can be costly, and therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of therapists above and others through BetterHelp, you may be able to find a therapist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching for a nearby therapist close to 94501 or the surrounding zip codes, consider other available therapists through the BetterHelp therapist page.

Stay Up To Date With The Leading Online Therapy Platform

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

Take some time to learn more about BetterHelp therapists and counselors to understand the services available to you clearly. If you have any questions, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

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

Emergency Situations

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:

·      National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

·      National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

·      Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

·      Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.

·      Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386 

·      SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357

·      National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)

·      Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature

·      National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293) 

·      Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19

·      Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673

Zip Codes Served By BetterHelp Therapists

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

94501, 94502

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy and BetterHelp can be found below:

How Do I See A Therapist For The First Time? 

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading about the counseling process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your therapist. 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 why you're attending therapy.

Should I Attend Therapy If I Feel Fine? 

If you don't feel the need to see a therapist, you don't have to. However, some people may avoid attending counseling due to preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although therapists 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 advice. A therapist 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 Crying In Therapy A Breakthrough?

Crying can be a breakthrough for some individuals who struggle to express emotions. Others might find that they often cry during sessions. Crying can be normal and healthy, so whether you cry or not may be a personal aspect of sessions.

Are Therapists Worth It?

We may all be on different paths in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, and goals. A therapist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities. Unlike advice from a friend, family member, or non-professional, therapists are trained to meet you where you're at. Therapy can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy each year, showing it's a popular option and may be often effective.

Do Therapists Judge You? 

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to protect you and them from ethical concerns. Therapists are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. Their job is to support you and make you feel safe and respected. You might consider changing therapists if you don't feel safe or respected.