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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Paul Remmele

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
14 years of experience

As a psychotherapist I am, above all, client directed. I believe in clients’ innate wisdom regarding their inner life. So, my first and primary job as a therapist is to help clients find their true voice. I am then guided by their voice to best help them achieve their therapeutic goals in a collaborative way. Some people respond best by processing emotions, others by a thoughtful discussion that generates cognitive insights and others by changes in behavior. So, my approach is eclectic. However, even though I find value in a variety of approaches, I believe that a feeling focused psychotherapy can be the quickest and most effective path for healing, and growth. So much of our depression, anxiety and low self-esteem is the result of the pain and hurt that most of us carry around - from our childhood and /or more recent experiences. Expressing and unloading this pain in a safe and supportive environment can provide much relief. And an empathetic psychotherapist can greatly facilitate this process. I have been extensively trained in attachment and feeling orientated therapies. Over the years, I have demonstrated an ability to be with clients through the depths of their most difficult emotions. Although it’s important to recognize and empathize with a client’s pain and vulnerabilities, it’s equally important to recognize and build on their strengths and unique abilities. People with low self-esteem generally underestimate their very real accomplishments, strengths, and potentials. They greatly benefit from a therapist who can provide encouragement and support while helping them reframe their life story from that of a victim to a survivor who has courageously overcome many obstacles. I have significant experience working with a wide variety of people. I have worked with individuals from many different ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds. I love working with children of all ages, including mother and toddler dyads. I enjoy working with families and couples, often finding this more dynamic and productive than working with an individual. I have worked successfully with clients who have had attachment issues, troubling emotional issues (e.g., grief, anger, fear) as well as trauma issues. I also have significant experience working with people on the autistic spectrum, as well as those who are socially challenged. All people have the need to bond with other human beings starting from early childhood when our ability to survive and thrive hinged on a secure attachment to our mothers and fathers. As adults, we continue to need the love and security found in relationship. Unfortunately, many of us have had insecure attachments as children and as a result we suffer insecurity and loneliness as adults. The good news is that insecure adults can now heal attachment issues though the therapeutic relationship. Decades ago my life was dramatically transformed through psychotherapy and now I am motivated to help others transform their lives in a similar way.

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Charlotte Gibbons

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW,MA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Utah with over 20 years of experience working with trauma/abuse, family/relational, and cultural/diversity issues. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship issues, parenting problems and career challenges. I also help people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, dialectic interventions and family-parent counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes insight and courage to be willing to ask for help. I will honor and support your efforts toward a more fulfilling life. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Andres Hoyo

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hi, my name is Andres Hoyo. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California with over 7 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationship issues, parenting challenges general life stressors, and adverse perceptions of self-esteem. My counseling style is client-centered and non-judgmental. I believe in allowing my clients to take more of a lead during sessions, and I perceive the therapeutic process as a collaborative effort between myself and my clients, with my client’s perspective as the primary guide to self-discovery. I strive to encourage and support my clients to find their own solutions and identify their own personal strengths and resources, while providing them a comfortable and safe environment to process their emotions and thoughts. I think it takes courage to seek help, when we are feeling inadequate, unfulfilled, lonely, or managing any other negative emotions impacting our ability of live happy and fulfilling lives, so I strive to provide a comfortable environment for my clients to feel heard, safe and understood. So, if you are thinking about reaching out for help and need to feel safe and comfortable, I hope I can be of service to you to provide you with the support you need to take steps to improve your overall sense of well-being.

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Amber Atwood

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS, LPCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). My therapy approach is strength-based aimed to empower and motivate individuals. I have been trained in a variety of approaches incorporating mindfulness based therapy techniques and cognitive behavioral therapy. Additionally, I have had extensive training in narrative therapy which is founded on the premise that “the person is not the problem, the problem is the problem.” Emphasis in treatment is to help individuals increase a greater sense of self-awareness, mind-body connection, and support personal growth. This approach includes developing an improved understanding of current coping mechanisms and behavioral patterns to help identify when feeling stuck.

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Amy Carnes

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMFT
AddictionsGriefParenting issues
10 years of experience

I know it can be overwhelming to take early steps toward the changes you want in life. Coping with our struggles already takes a huge amount of energy. Choosing a therapist is a big step. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where I can use my professional tools while we work on mental, emotional, and relationship issues. I will provide transparency throughout the process, so you are informed and know what to expect. I am a culturally competent Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of counseling experience. I received my Master of Science in Psychology from California Polytechnic State University. I am currently licensed to practice in California and Wisconsin. My areas of greatest expertise are addiction treatment and grief counseling. However, I have worked with clients experiencing a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, low self-esteem, and personality disorders. I also have had experience working with pre and postnatal issues, including parenting challenges. I consider myself to be primarily a humanistic and cognitive behavioral therapist. However, treatment should be adapted to an individual’s needs and what works best for them. We can work together to figure out what treatment looks like for you. I look forward to meeting you and starting your therapy!

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Diana Nochez

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in Los Angeles with over 6 years of experience working with a wide range of populations and ages. I have worked with clients with a variety of presenting concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and issues with focus and time management. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating my clients with respect, sensitivity, and compassion and I have found that working collaboratively with my clients to identify triggers and brainstorm possible solutions is most effective in finding relief. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered and solution-focused therapy. I will tailor our communication and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Marissa Cota

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

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Alicia Lammers

Offering therapy in CA
Self esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Oregon and California with over 10 years of professional work experience in community mental health, child welfare, and clinical supervision. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence, coping with life changes, & compassion fatigue. 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.

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Teresa Winkler

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Lynaia Freund

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I am Certified in EMDR, a highly researched and, highly respected form of psychotherapy. I have advanced training in the use of "EMDR/Flash", an EMDR therapy technique that can help you to desensitize difficult or painful thoughts, emotions or experiences. I have helped many people recover from trauma, childhood abuse, cope with grief and loss, stress, panic and anxiety using my expertise in EMDR to help people unfreeze or get un-stuck so they can move forward enabling them make the changes they desire to improve their life. I can help you with issues of motivation, self-esteem, and self confidence, as well. I also have extensive training and expertise plus many years of experience working with addiction recovery in both on a medical rehab unit and as a therapist in private practice. I spent 14 years as a Clinical Hospital Chaplain at a Major Trauma Center in Southern California. I also have extensive training and years of experience integrating spirituality and psychotherapy. I work with my clients to create an open, safe and compassionate environment where thoughts, feelings and challenges can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage! I understand that and I am proud of you for getting started! Good for you!

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How to find counseling in Atascadero

Finding the best therapist close by in Atascadero 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 Atascadero. 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 Atascadero, 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 Atascadero 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 Atascadero 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 Atascadero, elsewhere in San Luis Obispo, 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 Atascadero area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Atascadero 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 Atascadero 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 Atascadero 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 Atascadero, 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 Atascadero 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 Atascadero 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 Atascadero 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 Atascadero 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 Atascadero 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 93422 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 Atascadero 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 Atascadero 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 Atascadero, 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.

Atascadero 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 Atascadero.

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

93422, 93423

Popular cities near Atascadero, CA

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