Atherton is one of the most prosperous towns in the country, with the highest per-capita income of any other town of its size in the state. Yet they do say that money does not buy happiness. If your beautiful home and prosperous life is not keeping your depression or stress at bay, you might need to turn to someone for help.

Atherton-area counselors are available now to offer this assistance. These confidential therapists will be able to help you discover why you are unhappy and find ways to bring happiness back into your life. Contact a counselor today.

This is Elisabeth Welch's avatar and link to their profile

Elisabeth Welch

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issues
7 years of experience

My name is Elisabeth and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from California. I’ve done therapy in Los Angeles, Philadelphia and New York City but was educated at the University of Southern California. I am eager to hear about how you are doing. I have worked with clients for over seven years, specializing in relationship issues, parenting, and managing stress, anxiety and depression. Life challenges can really knock us down and make it hard to move forward. I am here to be your support. With compassion and empowering conversation, we can work together to help you live your best life. I can help you make important, impactful decisions in your life, or be there to listen when you just need someone to talk to. Numerous people suffer from anxiety and depression but did you know that they are very treatable health issues? Research shows that there are many concrete techniques that can really make a difference in helping you deal with those feelings. My combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy and Attachment Science can help you live a fulfilling and happy life on your terms. A notable client I’ve worked with was a single mother who suffered from extreme sadness and feelings of being overwhelmed in social situations. After determining she suffered from depression, we worked on behavioral techniques to alleviate the symptoms of depression such as helping her to learn to reframe negative thoughts, utilize calming techniques and engage in endorphin-boosting behavior. The next layer was helping to identify the type of situations that would trigger her depression or social anxiety. After identifying some previous life events that caused her great distress and trauma, we were able to help her understand and identify why she became unhealthily depressed and anxious. This lead to a more fulfilling social life and a more emotionally stable outlook on life. She has a new life partner and a much more optimistic view on life. I hope I can help you to find the balance and happiness that you deserve. I look forward to working with you!

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Felicia Ponce

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years of experience

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California, working in the field since I received my Master’s degree in 2010. I worked for a private non-profit clinic with children (0-18) and their families for five years. I then worked for a high school district providing educationally related mental health services for four years before beginning the journey of practicing independently. I have experience providing treatment for a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief, relational issues, parenting, trauma, abuse, and risk management. I also have experience teaching as an adjunct lecturer in undergraduate and graduate psychology programs at a California State University. The desire for human connection and abnormal psychology have fascinated me since I was a teenager, which resulted in my choice to become a therapist. Each work environment has provided me with knowledge and experience, but also with the honor of being present for clients at their most vulnerable and brave moments. I like to create a sense of safety for clients and draw from a person-centered approach in sessions. This means that I will remain curious about your experience and facilitate discussion which will lead you to discover that you have always held the key to unlock solutions. I also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems approach, and Solution Focused Therapy to guide treatment. Maintaining trauma-informed care is essential and I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). Every therapist is different. I tend to be somewhat laid back, as I believe clients are the experts on their lives and I want you to know the hour is yours. We will work together as a team to collaborate on treatment goals, addressing challenges, and resolving issues. I believe everyone has mental health. The severity and intensity it needs attention varies throughout our life span, just like most things. It takes courage to ask for help and I feel privileged to be in the position to provide you with support and guidance as you work towards feeling like the best version of yourself. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Debra Kabrin's avatar and link to their profile

Debra Kabrin

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
3 years of experience

I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 10 years. I have experience working with all age groups and with issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships, parenting and ADHD, My counseling style is warm, caring, and supportive. I am sensitive to diversity - racial, religious, gender. I tailor the sessions to each individuals needs. It takes courage to seek out help towards a happier and more fulfilling life. You have taken your first steps to creating that. I am excited to assist you in your journey and I look forward to working with you !

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Carol Wood

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA in Clinical Psychology,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
29 years of experience

You re not alone. You don’t have to deal with your current situation without help whether it is hopelessness, anxiety, Pain, grief, loss or indecision. If you feel alone in your partnership or life isn’t what you imagined and you don’t know what you can do to get relief from those sinking, lost or frantic feelings, there are answers. Life can change quite quickly. I am a Reiki Master Teacher so I am able to tune into the needs of my clients on many levels. I give homework for clients who enjoy extra work between sessions. Mindfulness is a focus that I’ve used for many years. Eighteen years with TWA in customer service on the east and west coasts has afforded me an understanding of airline issues and the behavior of many different groups of people under stress from all over the world as well as dealing with solutions to many problems on a daily basis to help people feel better and more control. No one wants to feel powerless. I was on the board of directors of Project Touch in Hermosa Beach and California Marriage and Family Therapists South Bay/Long Beach. I was under contract with South Bay Youth Project as well as Beach Cities Health District providing therapy to individuals, couples and families for decades. I care about people and love my work.

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Janelle Alexander

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed clinician in California and Florida with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, PTSD, abuse, motivation, empowerment, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect and dignity. Showing compassion and being sensitive to each other is also important. My therapeutic approach is of an eclectic style which means i use different treatment modalities while we work together. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I commend you for getting started!

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Alyssa Calderon

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults to assist in improving relationships, communication, and management of life stressors, trauma, and emotions. I highly value exceptional care and in doing so I incorporate compassion, trust, and hope in a therapeutic environment. I genuinely enjoy working with others to hear their life stories and assist those in incorporating self-compassion, clarity, meaning, and purpose in their daily lives. I implement Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to increase the use of learned skills for a healthy version of you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and healthier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Natalie Hendricks

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 8 years' of professional work experience. I have woked primarily with children, teens and young adults in the areas of anxiety, depression and self-esteem. I am personable and enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to create an open and safe enviornment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I will work with you to develop healthy perceptions of yourself for a peaceful and complete life. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, but know I am here to help you. I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Margarita Colon's avatar and link to their profile

Margarita Colon

Offering therapy in CA
Trauma and abuseGriefAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I am a strength-based therapist who believes that everyone deserves to be treated with respect. I also work from a psychodynamic approach and incorporate motivational interviewing in my therapeutic relationship style. I know how important the decision to start a therapeutic process is, and I am proud of you for taking the first steps into this journey. We will work together to make this experience a life-changing one. See you soon!

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This is Michael Brooks's avatar and link to their profile

Michael Brooks

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & 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.

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This is Cassandra Mintzas's avatar and link to their profile

Cassandra Mintzas

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

Providing therapy to diverse groups of people is what fills my cup...I would like to take this time to share a bit about what my training, experience, and knowledge around providing effective therapy. I have had the privilege in working with children and adults in coping and managing trauma symptoms for over 12 years. Many of us are suffering in silence and truly just need a safe place to process and not feel judged. I utilize eclectic therapeutic modalities as many humans are diverse and respond differently. We all suffer in our own minds and that can be our worse enemy. I believe that with being able to process, expression of thoughts, and learning to cope, you can become the best version of yourself!

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How to find counseling in Atherton

Finding the best therapist close by in Atherton 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 Atherton. 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 Atherton, 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 Atherton 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 Atherton 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 Atherton, elsewhere in San Mateo, 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 Atherton area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Atherton 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 Atherton 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 Atherton 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 Atherton, 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 Atherton 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 Atherton 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 Atherton 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 Atherton 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 Atherton 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 94027 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 Atherton 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 Atherton 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 Atherton, 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.

Atherton 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 Atherton.

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

94027

Popular cities near Atherton, CA

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