Whether you are young or old, male or female, you can be affected by mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and many more. The mental health care experts in Albany are trained in diagnosing and treating these and other mental health conditions. 

Nestled on the shore of the San Francisco Bay, the City of Albany is a beautiful and friendly place to live. However, if you have a mental illness, it may not seem so friendly. Talk to one of the therapists in Albany and get treatment so you can find out how great Albany really is. 

This is Lynda Merritt 's avatar and link to their profile

Lynda Merritt

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Therapist licensed in California. I have been working with children, families, and individuals for over 15 years. Over the past 9 years I have been providing therapy for children, families and individuals whom have challenges with mental health barriers. I have worked as a Crisis Responder in the community, hospital, and Law Enforcement settings providing training and coaching strategies on how to respond to mental health using a non-judgmental approach. My goal is to empower through therapeutic and biblical principals that instills, empowers and support our unique voice and choice as well as maintain safety and sense of wellness. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma, sexual and emotional abuse and grief and loss. My counseling style is motivated by engaging persons in a non-judgmental manner, creating a sense of value, respectful, , compassion, and being transparent. My therapeutic approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focus Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy TF (CBT), Motivation Interviewing, Mindfulness, Grief and Loss, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Solution Focused Therapy. My goal is to empower those that are seeking to work in partnership to improve there levels of functioning. My desire is to empower through acknowledgement, validating, and understanding, I believe through commitment and partnership you will be able to gain a better, safer control over your life.

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Janet Lee

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Texas with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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.

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Lisa Lee-Briggs

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy related issues, & parenting 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. I believe that everybody has their own answers but there are times in our lives when we need assistance in discovering those answers. I take a straightforward approach to that exploration and help people advance in life. I specialize in couple's and family communication where assigning blame is replaced with a clearer understanding of each person and more effective ways to convey meaning. All relationships can be repaired if all members are willing to work towards that goal. I use a wide range of techniques from Cognitive Behavior Therapy to Gestalt techniques as well as a mix of additional therapies specifically suited to the client and the situation. I will find the techniques that fit with you!

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Roshon Vercher

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker licensed in California with over 10 years of experience working in multiple settings providing therapy and support for young people in an educational setting, working with families in child protection and in a clinical setting in a correctional facility . I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, co-dependency, identity issues and people who have experienced trauma or emotional abuse. The feedback I receive from clients is that they find me to be supportive and nonjudgmental, and they appreciate that I am honest and direct with them while being caring and compassionate. I look forward to working with you using a person-centered focus and utilizing appropriate clinical approaches based on your individual needs. I am available for video or telephone appointments.

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Joseph Ryan

Offering therapy in CA
License: Master of Science, Family and Child Counseling
AddictionsRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesAnger managementDepression
19 years of experience

Thank you for being here and taking this big step toward your lifelong happiness. I am Joe Ryan, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has been serving people for nearly two decades. If you want someone to walk with you through the forest of life, I am a good companion. Life is filled with challenges, uphill struggles, and crossroads where difficult choices must be made. When your path ahead is perilous and uncertain. we will walk forward together with courage to explore your world. I will listen with empathy and give you my all, so that you can discover where you are now, where you have come from, and where you ultimately wish to go. I believe that at some point down the road, you will find yourself unburdened in a way you never imagined possible. When that beautiful day comes, I will be there to applaud you for all you have done for yourself and for our world. As for my counseling experience, individuals, couples and families have trusted me with their most difficult challenges for the past two decades. Often people seek out help when they are going through a crisis and working through this challenge is the first order of business. I have worked successfully with people experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, marriage, relationship and parenting issues, grief and loss, domestic abuse, substance and alcohol addiction, OCD, as well as personal growth and adjustment issues. I also have extensive experience with anger management issues, multicultural concerns and personality disorders. In my work with you, as appropriate I will use the most successful psychological modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Solution-Focused Therapy. I also utilize solution-focused therapy, meaning that in addition to working on solving your personal dilemmas, you will gain insight in how to deal with complex issues in your future. My Educational Credentials include: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with California Board of Behavioral Sciences since 2003 Four advanced degrees in Psychotherapy, Educational Psychology, Writing and Literature Extensive training in Self-Psychology, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Anger Management, Narrative Therapy and Family Systems University and college professor for 35 years who has been a therapist for many, including students facing academic, career, and life adjustment issues. I believe in creating a space where we can have difficult conversations, work on resolving issues and collaborate on treatment plans that are tailored to your personal needs and experiences. It takes a lot of courage and motivation to reach out for additional support. I am here for you and thank you for trusting me with your utmost personal dilemmas. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Lacy Utterback's avatar and link to their profile

Lacy Utterback

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hi! My name is Lacy and welcome to BetterHelp and taking an important step in meeting the challenges life can present. I would be happy to help you do this at your own pace and tailored to your specific needs. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Colorado and California with over 10 years of experience. I have had the opportunity to provide empathy and support to individuals and couples that have struggled with a wide range of challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem and relationship issues such as communication and conflict resolution plus many others. My therapy style is to provide warm, compassionate, empathetic and positive support. Like most of us I have experienced my own share of life's challenges. I believe what sets me apart is my ability to be down to earth which makes it easier to develop a connection. My clients have expressed reasons they feel most comfortable with me is because of my positive approach and sense of humor. Cultivating a therapeutic relationship and building trust is imperative to the helping process. Feeling supported, heard, validated and understood with no judgement is essential. Making the decision to seek support through a qualified counselor is a courageous step in making your health and well-being a priority and I commend you. I look forward to discussing what brought you to this site and individualize a plan that works best for you. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you!

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Amber Boelen

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Sheila Owens

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have been fortunate in being able to provide 30 additional years in the mental health field as a case manager/case coordinator. I am a community activist who aids in decreasing the sigma of mental health issues. I have an extensive background in helping clients with stress, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, motivation, and self-esteem, and confidence issues. I have experience working with an array of adult mental health diagnoses and treating individuals who are experiencing 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Quisha Castro

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

As a psychotherapist for the past 20 years, I’ve worked in a variety of outpatient and inpatient settings with children, adolescents, and adults with complex needs. My approach to therapy starts with the psychotherapist and client relationship. In our sessions, I provide a supportive environment where you feel seen, heard and a space for therapeutic connection, where change is created. Life can be difficult, and we all find ourselves at times struggling with difficult thoughts and overwhelming feelings. Past traumas or current stressors can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, or disconnected from ourselves and others. As a psychotherapist, together we examine how old patterns no longer serve you and help foster a more peaceful and purposeful way of living. My goal to is assist my client with an in-depth perspective and understanding their individual uniqueness. I work to build self-awareness and help clients meet life's challenges towards fulfillment, change unhelpful patterns or behaviors, and teach new methods people can use to approach complex situations to maximize positive results. My specialties include anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflicts, life transitions, substance abuse, eating disorders, and difficulties relating in relationships. My clinical focus is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & Mindfulness and Acceptance Based Practices that examines your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I facilitate this transformative process by forming a partnership with each person by assessing and analyzing their distinct and unique circumstances and life experiences. This allows us to tailor an effective and practical treatment plan for our work together. I place importance on how you apply what you learn about yourself in therapy to everyday life.

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This is Andrew Jones's avatar and link to their profile

Andrew Jones

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, moods, relationship issues, parenting issues, anger management & personality disorders. 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. At this time I am only accepting clients who are willing to do video sessions.

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How to find counseling in Albany

Finding the best therapist close by in Albany 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 Albany. 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 Albany, 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 Albany 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 Albany 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 Albany, elsewhere in Alameda, 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 Albany area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Albany 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 Albany 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 Albany 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 Albany, 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 Albany 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 Albany 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 Albany 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 Albany 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 Albany 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 94706 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 Albany 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 Albany 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 Albany, 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.

Albany 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 Albany.

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

94706

Popular cities near Albany, CA

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