Big Bear Lake, California wraps you in a giant bear hug of amazing activities. From hiking and biking to off-road adventures or a guided Eagle Tour, you’ll want to get a relaxing massage at the end of the day. Animal lovers should check out the local zoo and enjoy a hearty picnic. Even though a giant bear hug sounds comforting, dealing with mental health issues requires finding someone who will listen to you and offer guidance.

The good news about mental health issues is that there’s help for feeling better. No one knows that better than the professional confidential counselors in the Big Bear Lake area. Reach out now and find the perfect match for your counseling needs.

Read more
Psychologist Beth Deja providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Beth Deja

Clinician
License Type(s): CO LCSW 09924982, CA LCSW 29129
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California and Colorado, I bring 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenging life experiences, with specialized expertise in depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I am deeply committed to creating a compassionate, affirming therapeutic space where individuals can explore their inner world, heal from past wounds, and develop stronger self-understanding. My approach honors each person's unique journey, focusing on areas like self-love, life purpose, social anxiety, trauma recovery, and personal empowerment. My clinical work spans diverse challenges including workplace stress, family dynamics, body image concerns, and navigating significant life transitions. I approach therapy as a collaborative process, supporting clients in developing resilient coping strategies and rediscovering their inherent strength and potential. Through evidence-based practices and a trauma-informed lens, I aim to help clients move from feeling stuck or overwhelmed to experiencing greater emotional freedom and authentic self-connection.

Psychologist Toi Lynn Wyle providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Toi Lynn Wyle

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 33428
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years offering treatment

Welcome. I’m so glad you reached out today. We are in the middle of unprecedented challenges, and you do not have to face them alone. I’m a Psychotherapist, Personal & Professional Coach, Hypnotherapist, and Yoga & Meditation teacher with 25+ years of experience supporting others along their life path. ~~I believe in my clients~~ I believe in your inherent wisdom and resources. I’ve had the honor of witnessing my clients move inner and outer mountains to make positive life changes as they become who they are meant to become. I believe this work as not about fixing someone or simply solving a problem, but about fostering self-awareness and providing the tangible tools you can use for a lifetime. I see myself as a facilitator and collaborator to empower my clients to find their own answers and use those answers to take clear and confident action in their life. I sincerely care about my clients. You are the reason I do this work. ~~What You’ll Get from Our Collaboration~~ You'll l have a solid and safe space where you’ll be seen, heard, respected and reflected. You'll be gaining an ally who fully supports your lived experience, who respects your unique way of being in the world. You'll become more aware of yourself and life around you, more tuned in to your values, needs, motivations, fears and desires. You'll become more present with yourself, others and life itself. You'll learn how to be your own therapist, coach, and friend. You'll come away from each session feeling more clear, confident, and capable of navigating your current and future life challenges. :::It's important to find a therapist that matches you, so below is a little bit more info about me::: ~~How I Am~~ My natural way of being in this work and in life is grounded, curious, compassionate, and intuitive. Over the years, my clients and students have described me as calming, warm, nurturing, efficient, and empowering. While our work is undoubtedly serious at times, humor is essential as well. ~~How I Work~~ I’m a Holistic or Integrative therapist, which means I work with the head, heart, body, and spirit to facilitate healing and transformation. I interweave traditional talk therapy and life coaching with various forms of cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, and somatic therapies. ~~Where I’ve Worked~~ I’ve worked in hospitals, schools, colleges, career centers, tech companies, virtual therapy providers, and non-profits. I've worked with clients of all ages from the US and countries around the world. I founded and directed a large healing arts center where I managed 25 employees offering yoga classes and other healing services. I’ve been a Yoga & Meditation teacher for 24 years, and have led numerous community events and retreats in-person and online. ~~Other Things~~ I’m a writer, as well as an avid nature photographer. Dogs, I do love dogs - raising them as well as training and nurturing them into wholeness. They are an important part of my passion and purpose. I look forward to the possibility of working with you.

Psychologist Patricia Riley providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Patricia Riley

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 25356
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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 Laurie Richardson providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Laurie Richardson

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 132096
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years offering treatment

Having returned to grad school to become a therapist at the midpoint of my life, I bring a wealth of knowledge from being a parent, a preschool teacher, a 7th grade Waldorf teacher, an art instructor, a graphic designer and copyrighter, and an art consultant for over 20 years. My school trajectory took me from UCLA to San Jose State to Sac State, a Waldorf training college and finally to San Francisco's CIIS. As I've entered the field of being a therapist, what I've learned is that the act of becoming a therapist means you are a good listener and humbled each time a human being opens their heart to you. To that end, I work diligently to understand and tailor each treatment I design to work specifically with the client in front of me. I relish the empathy and dignity of Person-Centered Therapy because I firmly believe that each person knows themselves best and can apply what they learn when they are given the tools and perspective to see solutions within the framework of the very problems they brought to therapy in the first place. Being an EXA therapist means that I employ the Expressive Arts (poetry, rap, photography, 2D and 3D art, dance, sculpture, writing, drama, music, gardening, and cooking, and eco-art) into the healing process. The art becomes another tool and a living testament to the fact that healing is happening. My style of therapy focuses upon being sensitive, empathetic with a healthy dash of questions. My sessions are usually filled with interactive games, art, laughter, meditation and yes, breakthroughs and tears - all the range of possible human expression. People tell me they come away from their session feeling happier, lighter, clearer and understood. I have great compassion for the people I see, whether via telehealth or in-person. My goal is to be fully present, listening, supporting, acknowledging and empowering you forward, however that next chapter appears. Looking forward to chatting with you soon!

Psychologist Gema Martir providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Gema Martir

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 98858
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
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, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Alexis Reid providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Alexis Reid

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 125880
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Sheryl Mahon providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Sheryl Mahon

Clinician
License Type(s): TX LPC 62372, CA LPCC 16568
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
18 years offering treatment

Greetings. I am a professional counselor with over 18 years experience working in the areas of grief, trauma, anticipatory grief, caregiver stress, end of life issues, depression, life changes, stress, and chronic illness. I am certified as a grief counselor (GC-C) and as a grief counselor specializing in children and adolescents (GCCA-C). I am committed to assisting you with identifying the changes you want in your life and then exploring different strategies to help you achieve your goals. I would describe my approach to therapy as eclectic. I work with the individual to find the approach that best meets their needs and work to provide the tools that are needed to effect change and promote growth. Finally, I view the therapeutic alliance as a partnership requiring mutual trust, respect, honesty, communication, and commitment to do the work. Hopefully, what I have shared here will help you choose a therapist that best meets your needs. Should you choose me, I look forward to our journey together.

Psychologist Carly Makie-Bennett providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Carly Makie-Bennett

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 75919
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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 Debra Nystrom providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Debra Nystrom

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 31725
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
30 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, and 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Xiaoying 'Sharon' Qi providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Xiaoying 'Sharon' Qi

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 16837
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesADHD
7 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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!

Psychologist Robyn Peace providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Robyn Peace

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 73672
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuseParenting issues
11 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring over a decade of dedicated experience supporting individuals healing from complex trauma and navigating challenging parenting dynamics. My professional approach centers on creating a compassionate, empowering environment where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. I specialize in working with survivors of abuse, offering trauma-informed care that honors each person's unique journey. My therapeutic style emphasizes strength-based interventions, helping clients rediscover their resilience and rebuild a sense of safety and self-worth. Through collaborative and individualized treatment, I support clients in understanding their experiences, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and cultivating emotional well-being. My commitment is to walk alongside you with genuine empathy, respect, and professional expertise as you move toward healing and personal transformation.

Psychologist Hyun Joo Kim providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Hyun Joo Kim

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LMFT 166.012051, CA LMFT 53972
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
21 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California, Georgia, Illinois, Oregon and Washington with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Sheryl Cook providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Sheryl Cook

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist 15449
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
36 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California with over 3 decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients address depression, anxiety, stress management, and challenges related to self-esteem and life transitions. I understand that each person's journey is unique, and I approach therapy with deep compassion and respect. My goal is to create a supportive environment where you can explore your experiences, develop meaningful coping strategies, and cultivate personal growth. Drawing from extensive clinical experience and mind/body awareness, I offer a warm, collaborative approach that honors your individual strengths and challenges. Whether you're struggling with mood difficulties, adjusting to life changes, or seeking to enhance your emotional well-being, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. I welcome individuals seeking a thoughtful, progressive therapeutic partnership focused on understanding, healing, and personal empowerment. Together, we can work towards creating positive, sustainable changes in your life.

Psychologist Monique La Ruth Hart providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Monique La Ruth Hart

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 120795, CO LCSW CSW.09928698
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
17 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Pennsylvania, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, and challenges with self-esteem. I have extensive experience working with women's issues, including pregnancy, postpartum experiences, and caregiver stress. My therapeutic approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each individual's unique journey. I understand the nuanced challenges of navigating panic disorders, isolation, control issues, and emotional healing. Drawing from years of professional experience, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their inner strengths and develop meaningful coping strategies. I am particularly committed to helping individuals rebuild self-love, process difficult life transitions, and develop resilience in the face of personal challenges. My work honors the complexity of human experiences, especially for those managing stress, relationship dynamics, and emotional recovery. Through a collaborative and affirming approach, I aim to walk alongside my clients, offering guidance, understanding, and professional support as they move toward healing and personal growth.

Find a Therapist Near You in Big Bear Lake , California

Finding a licensed therapist near you in California can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

With a population of California_POPULATION, California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in California, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in California (CA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across California_COUNTIES, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across California with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

When searching for a therapist near me in California, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across California, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across California.

Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in California want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in California without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in California (CA)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in California

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

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 vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

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 private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Big Bear Lake can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist