Living in fear all the time is no way to live. Being afraid to go outside or talk to anyone can make some people have a panic attack. This can be a sign of social anxiety disorder or another type of mental health condition and you can find out how to deal with it from one of the therapists based in Benicia. 

The town of Benicia, California is in the San Francisco Bay area and much of the community spends lots of time at the beach, sunning, swimming, fishing, or camping. However, those who have an anxiety disorder does not want to be around other people and crowds can cause a major meltdown. Talk to a Benicia counselor today to start feeling better tomorrow. 

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Laurie Linsley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a marriage and family therapist in California and continue to hold my professional counseling license in the state of Alaska. I was born and raised in the bay area of California and I started out as a recreation therapist in psychiatric hospitals back in 1992. I moved to Anchorage, AK in 1996 and lived there for 24 years, raised my children there and have recently returned to the beautiful state of California. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families. I believe that an individual who comes to therapy may benefit from exploring the relationships they had and now have with others. After working for years with individuals who were hospitalized for mental health concerns, I began to learn more about family systems and got my master's degree in marriage and family therapy. I have experience both in residential and outpatient settings , in-office and now doing telehealth. I feel that it is important to make a bond with my clients so they can trust me. I primarily practice using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution Focused Therapy and Family Systems approaches. I am very big on communication and enjoy teaching people healthy ways to communicate with others through fun activities. I am also a huge animal lover and have training in equine assisted psychotherapy. I am always looking for ways to encourage others to learn from animals as much as possible.

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Harout "Harry" Ohannessian

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

When human beings experience trauma or severe life stressors, it not uncommon for their lives to unravel. My great passion is bringing healing to people who have been through a traumatic/stressful experience. I help my clients who include young adults , couples and families, to find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves as peaceful, complete, whole and safe. Moreover, I have been practicing psychotherapy since 2014. My approach to therapy is one of deep empathy and exploration. Life is challenging and can bring you overwhelming feelings of anxiety or depression. In utilizing mainly psychodynamic approach to therapy, I will work with you to understand and process experiences that are causing you pain and suffering. Through our work together, you will gain a deeper understanding of yourself, which will ultimately lead to a more fulfilling and gratifying life. Also, I know that no single approach is the right one for very individual, and so I have been trained in range of other modalities including Motivational Interviewing, Person-centered, Relational, Attachment, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, and Trauma Focused Therapies. My educational background includes a Master of Arts degree MA in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, Los Angeles. Also, I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the California State University, Los Angeles.

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Makenzie Gilliam

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepression
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & eating disorders. 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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Rheannon Chavez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionADHD
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT13476) with 4 years of experience providing psychotherapy to individuals and families. I received my Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology with an emphasis in Counseling and Social Change from San Diego State University and my Master’s of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of La Verne. During graduate school I worked for a behavioral company and gained 3 years of experience working with children and adolescents with developmental delays to develop social skills and manage social anxiety. I gained a majority of my experience working at DMH contracted agencies with children and adolescents who struggled with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also spent several years working for the Victims of Crime program treating adults, children, and adolescents for trauma and depression. I gravitate towards solution focused, cognitive behavioral, and person-centered approaches to encourage positive self-development in my clients and encourage them to identify, grow, and develop the skills they already possess. However, I believe that each individual is unique and I strive to implement therapeutic interventions that reflect that by implementing any and all approaches that I feel will best benefit you as my client. Above all I aim to create a positive, nurturing, and safe environment to best help my client’s growth.

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Azita Azizi

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California with nine years of experience working with people making change in their life. I have worked with people challenged by depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and life changing situations. My approach is solution focused, client centered, and strengths based drawing heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Theory. Life can often be difficult and hard to navigate, but I believe that we all have the strength and resilience to grow and change, and live a more fulfilling life. Therapy is a challenging, yet warm process that entails self-reflection and honest conversation. It is important for me to create a space for you to feel comfortable, and open. My goals are to help you reach your goals in a supportive, empathetic, and compassionate space where you feel safe. I strive to continue to learn to ensure that my clients are given the best therapy that I can provide.

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Keary Mason

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I am trained in providing Prolonged Exposure therapy to address PTSD, and trauma. I am certified in CBT and AODS. I have training with DBT, and IFS. I am a certified domestic violence advocate and have taught classes for both parties in a relationship. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder. 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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John Aaron Foster

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello there! I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience with teens, adults and couples. I have experience in helping clients with stress, life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, 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. My therapeutic approach is built on trust within the relationship we create along with a little humor. I mostly utilize the modalities of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with family systems, communication skills work, and mindfulness practices. 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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Christina Fitch

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemADHD
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & executive and professional coaching. I also have a lifetime of experience with ADHD and Autism. 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.

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Gunjani Patel-Oza

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSleeping disordersCoping with life changesCoaching
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California and Florida with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, self-esteem, confidence and executive coaching. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Danielle Naylor's avatar and link to their profile

Danielle Naylor

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & depression. 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Benicia

Finding the best therapist close by in Benicia 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 in Benicia that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Benicia. 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 Benicia, 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 in the Benicia region and in the state of California. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Benicia or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Benicia area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Benicia 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 Benicia, elsewhere in Solano, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Benicia area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Benicia 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 Benicia 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 Benicia 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Benicia online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Benicia, 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 Benicia psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Benicia 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 Benicia helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Benicia 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:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Benicia 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 in Benicia?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Benicia 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.

Benicia therapists 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 Benicia 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 Benicia 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in CA, therapists 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 94510 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Benicia counselor?

Before seeing your Benicia 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Benicia.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Benicia 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 with a Benicia counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Benicia, 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.

Benicia 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Benicia, California

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 to customer service 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 Benicia.

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

94510

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