The City of Atascadero founded in 1913 by E. G. Lewis is on the Pacific Coast and in the California Central Valley. The name Atascadero, which just means a place of much water in Spanish, is a good way to describe the watery town, where almost two percent of the entire town is water. If you don’t like the beach, try downtown Atascadero, where there are movie theaters, wine bars, microbreweries, restaurants, and an art gallery. 

In fact, there is something for everyone to do in Atascadero. However, if you are not interested in things like you used to be, that may be a sign of depression and you should seek treatment from one of the many licensed mental health professionals in town. They are ready to help you right now. 

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Psychologist Dr. Frederick  Smoot providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Dr. Frederick Smoot

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 12959
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years offering treatment

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (CA #12959) with over 15 years of experience counseling/ accompanying persons through difficult parts of their life-journeys. I have worked with a wide range of concerns including Isolation. loneliness, fearfulness, anxiety, intimacy/relationship issues, parenting and career challenges, addiction, physical and emotional abuse and life transitions. My counseling style is warm, curious and appropriately truth-telling.. I treat others with respect and consistent presence. I work to sustain and shame-free context that empowers persons to (re)claim their lies and future with dignity. I am an accompanist, using therapeutic tools gathered from several clinical approaches. I am relational, client centered, mindful, and strategic. I believe that direction and goals for therapy are shaped together with the client. We will tailor a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Your willingness to reach out for support shows your courage and desire for a better future. I encourage you to take this step, accompanied and supported I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Carlos Velasco providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Carlos Velasco

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 5800
Mental Wellness Specialties: Family conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
14 years offering treatment

Life moves fast, and major transitions whether in your career, relationships, or personal identity often bring unexpected stress, self-doubt, and anxiety. I work with adults who want to move past feeling overwhelmed and step into a more grounded, confident version of themselves. I view therapy as a dynamic partnership. My style is direct yet empathetic, providing a safe space to unpack complex challenges without judgment. Together, we will examine patterns that may no longer be serving you, strengthen communication and coping tools, and build a clear path forward. If you are ready to optimize your mental well-being, navigate a major shift, or simply gain fresh perspective, I am here to support your journey

Psychologist Mario Palacios providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Mario Palacios

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 46078
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
25 years offering treatment

Dealing with difficulties, stressors and life’s challenges can be quite challenging. However, I believe it is something that you don’t have to go through alone. If you are ready to invest in your healing, let's talk about ways in which I can help you. I want to talk to you first about how I work. I work with people who are ready to improve their quality of life and who are highly motivated to create realistic expectations that will help to empower them. I strive to help those who have lost control of their lives and help them gain it back by becoming more attuned with their lives. Our relationship is one of trust, empathy and a solid building foundation. From there, we work together to build and create realistic goals that will help to improve your growth and build positive changes in your life. It is wonderful when you can be good to yourself. Remember that change comes from within. I look forward to you taking that first step

Psychologist Sonia Gallegos providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Sonia Gallegos

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 76067, AZ LCSW 20087
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
6 years offering treatment

I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California and Arizona with over 5 years of experience working as a therapist for a government agency. I have worked with clients with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, personality issues, and relationship challenges. My approach involves evidence based treatment and solution focused. I will individualize sessions and a treatment plan with your unique goals we explore together. I look forward to meeting you and being a part of this season in your life.

Psychologist Carolina Hernandez providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Carolina Hernandez

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 83499
Mental Wellness Specialties: Anger managementSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
7 years offering treatment

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California. I have worked with clients with various concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and parenting problems. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is eclectic and takes from cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic to name a few, as techniques alter based on the client's needs and treatment. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you.

Psychologist Eric Aldaco providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Eric Aldaco

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 116682
Mental Wellness Specialties: Self esteemCoping with life changes
16 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I believe that you are the expert of your life journey 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 life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am a Christian therapist and my approach to therapy is from a biblical perspective. I look forward in meeting you and collaboratively engaging in a strength base therapeutic model in treatment.

Psychologist Christine Piddington providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Christine Piddington

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 69521
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
11 years offering treatment

Hello! I'm a California-licensed therapist with 11 years of professional experience dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges. My passion and deep expertise lie in coping with grief and loss, profoundly shaped by my background as a hospice social worker. I understand the unique complexities that come with navigating profound loss. For the past 7.5 years, I've worked exclusively via remote sessions, providing comprehensive support to clients across California. I'm here to help you with a wide range of concerns, including: Stress & Anxiety Family Conflicts Trauma & Abuse Grief & Loss (specialty area) Depression Beyond these, I bring a strong background in client advocacy, stemming from my two years in the Peace Corps in Belize advocating for those with HIV/AIDS, and my broader work championing the rights of underprivileged communities. This includes experience with disability leave in the workplace and securing Emotional Support Animals (ESA) in housing. My diverse journey also includes experience in prison and hospital settings, enriching my understanding of varied client needs. I believe you are the expert of your own story and possess immense strengths. Taking the first step towards a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and I am here to support you in that process. While I'm currently based in Alaska and pursuing licensure here, I maintain my active California license and am committed to helping you on your healing journey.

Psychologist Amy Farkas providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Amy Farkas

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 88930
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring over 15 years of experience supporting individuals navigating various life challenges. My professional experience focuses on supporting clients through addiction, self-esteem challenges, and major life transitions. I also help clients navigate the unique strengths and challenges associated with introversion, empathy, and high sensitivity. I take a relational, insight-oriented approach to therapy, helping clients understand patterns in their relationships, emotions, and behaviors while building practical tools for navigating life’s challenges. I focus on creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore difficult feelings, past experiences, and current struggles. Together, we work on noticing and understanding patterns, whether in your romantic relationships, family dynamics, or friendships, while also strengthening your coping skills, self-compassion, and confidence in making choices that honor your values. I aim to meet you where you are, blending gentle curiosity with thoughtful guidance, and helping you build the skills to move forward. My style is warm, grounded, and collaborative: I listen carefully, offer thoughtful reflection, and provide practical strategies while honoring your lived experience. Whether you’re navigating transitions, relationship concerns, addictive patterns, or just want a trusted partner to explore life’s complexities with, I work to help you feel seen, understood, and empowered to take meaningful steps forward.

Psychologist Jasmine Ortiz providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

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 Harriett Bay providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Harriett Bay

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 13725
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
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, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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.

Psychologist Natarajan Gowda providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Natarajan Gowda

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 24853
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 Dianna Johnson providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Dianna Johnson

Clinician
License Type(s): CO LMFT MFT.0002758, CA LMFT 123779
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
7 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping 20 plus years as a certified addiction specialist. In addition, help with trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with depression. 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 a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Elena Balashova-Shamis providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Elena Balashova-Shamis

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist PSY20104
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
23 years offering treatment

Dr. Elena Balashova-Shamis is a highly experienced, licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adults, and elderly. She is trained as a psychoanalyst and provides integrative, personalized treatments for her patients. She teaches at 5 local universities, including UCLA’s medical school and NPI. She is known for her presentations, publications, and dissertation advising.

Psychologist Jalen prayer providing different types of therapy in Atascadero

Jalen prayer

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 136443
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
4 years offering treatment

My approach is centered on empathy, compassion, and collaboration. I work closely with my clients to understand their unique needs and goals and to develop individualized treatment plans tailored to their specific circumstances. You can expect to be met with kindness and compassion while we discuss and discover how we can work together to make your mental health goals a reality.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Atascadero, California

Finding a therapist near you in Atascadero, California starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you. 

The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In California, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.

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 can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.

Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In California, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.

Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in California

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. 

You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.

Therapists near you in California

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

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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

Is online therapy effective?

Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.

How quickly can I start therapy?

You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.

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 discreet?

Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.

Find a Therapist in Atascadero, California

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Atascadero and the surrounding CA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

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