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.

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Psychologist Maria Biasiotto providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Maria Biasiotto

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 49116
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
30 years offering treatment

My therapy style is warm, interactive, action orientated and focused. I have experience working with adults, both in Individual and Group Therapy for many years. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Spiritual/Religious, as well as cultural sensitivity is included in my approach. My approach combines humanistic, cognitive-behavioral/CBT, and brief solution focused therapy. I am here to meet your unique and specific needs. Clients that I have interacted with have included those with issues involving Self Esteem, Complex Trauma, MST, PTSD, CPTSD, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Substance Abuse, Sexual Trauma, and Domestic Violence and Behavioral issues. These clients over all have reported reduction in unwanted symptoms and improvement in quality of life. A quote I share here was from a client I had been seeing for about a year: "I did not think this could help and one day I realized that it really was helping and I never believed it could." "The Longest journey BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP." My Masters is in psychology and I hold a License as a Family Therapist, LMFT. I have a RN and I am Certified in Behavioral Health by the ANCC, RN-BC. Please feel free to ask any questions about my experience, that may be of a help for you.

Psychologist Lynn Vinson providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Lynn Vinson

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 24854
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
15 years offering treatment

Hi - My name is Lynn Vinson, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 10 years of professional work experience as a licensed therapist. I have been a social worker for over 20 years in other areas such as child protective social worker, hospital social worker, social worker in 2 psychiatric health facilities in 2 states, private practice and most recently as a psychotherapist in a family health clinic. In my spare time I worked as an after hours crisis intervention member of a team specializing in crisis triage. I provide therapy to mostly adults but I also enjoy helping teenagers. My style is eclectic, utilizing cognitive behavioral, mindfulness and positive psychology techniques. I am non judgemental and provide an environment of acceptance and trust. I have faith based values without imposing on others. SPECIALTIES: Pre-weight loss surgery consultation and therapy ( I had weight loss surgery myself in 2004) Anxiety/Depression Relationship problems Life transitions and aging issues (I am 73) Support for caregivers Grief and Loss Guilt and Shame Adults Molested As Children Experience: 10 plus years as a therapist, 20 plus years as a social worker for children and their parents, worked in 2 psychiatric hospitals. 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. Thank Your for considering me as your therapist.

Psychologist Cynthia Langley providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Cynthia Langley

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 9211
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
45 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 45 years of professional work experience. My expertise comes from working with the Department of Mental Health in LA County ( worked with the mobile Psychiatric Evaluation Team, hospitalized suicidal, and homicidal patients; provided psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults; worked with persons in individual and group therapy experiencing symptoms from depressive disorders, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse and child abuse); medical social work in the acute care and LTAC hospital settings; and home health settings; adoptions and foster care; provided case management and housing services to homeless persons in LA County; managed a cash pay and insurance private practice; and provided clinical supervision to numerous social work, psychology, and marriage and family interns. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. NOTE: BE ADVISED THAT I DO FILL OUT A CLIENT QUESTIONNAIRE ON THE FIRST SESSION. IT IS A PART OF MY CLINICAL HISTORY TAKING ON A CLIENT. I do work with clients from various racial and ethnic backgrounds. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage. I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Dr. Dale DiMascio providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Dr. Dale DiMascio

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist 24212
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
12 years offering treatment

Having a relationship with a therapist can be vital in avoiding pitfalls and taking advantage of new opportunities. A therapist can help a client attain goals by detecting and confronting mental illness, relationship conflicts and other challenges in a timely manner. I strongly believe that attaining one's goals is significantly more likely with the support and expertise of a therapist. I have been fortunate in that I have interacted with both clients and people in my personal life with a great variety of cultural, socioeconomic, and sexual orientation backgrounds. I have aimed to become sensitive to the prejudice and fear many people face. My work with past clients has reinforced for me that successfully overcoming these and other barriers is essential in improving the odds of their experiencing happy, fulfilling lives. I am experienced in assisting clients in facing and overcoming past and present conflicts. I am also well-versed in helping clients with relationship issues, goal achievement, motivation and self-image. I know it is necessary to provide clients with a safe environment. The demands of coping with everyday life necessitate a therapeutic setting where clients feel secure in trusting that their best interests are the highest priority. This allows current challenges and past conflicts to be addressed in a non-threatening and helpful way. I try to monitor if anyone has any difficulties with the therapeutic environment they are experiencing. My aim is to create an environment that is filled with trust and security. This trusting is something I want maintained in all interactions throughout the therapeutic process. Addressing your challenges is no small task and you should take great pride in your courage to seek an expert helper in your pursuits.

Psychologist Dr. Malliga Battar providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Dr. Malliga Battar

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 117133
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring over two decades of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering women, veterans, and survivors of trauma, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, addiction, and healing from difficult life experiences. My multicultural background and multilingual skills allow me to provide culturally sensitive care that honors each client's unique journey. I understand the intricate ways trauma, identity, and personal history intersect, and I'm committed to creating a compassionate, affirming therapeutic space. My approach integrates evidence-based practices to help clients develop resilience, rebuild self-esteem, and navigate challenging life transitions. Whether supporting survivors of sexual assault, individuals struggling with addiction, or those processing complex emotional wounds, I offer skilled, trauma-informed guidance tailored to your individual needs. I believe in your inherent strength and capacity for healing, and I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with respect, understanding, and genuine care.

Psychologist Dr. Virginia Christophe providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Dr. Virginia Christophe

Clinician
License Type(s): AZ LPC LPC-22925, CA LPCC 18211
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
36 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Texas with over three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My approach centers on helping clients navigate issues like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I bring deep expertise in addressing women's issues, workplace challenges, and the unique emotional landscapes of midlife and young adulthood. My practice is rooted in understanding multicultural experiences and providing compassionate, nuanced support across diverse backgrounds. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, overcome isolation, and rediscover life purpose. I'm particularly skilled at supporting individuals through difficult experiences like divorce, caregiver stress, chronic health challenges, and family dynamics. I believe in creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, heal from past wounds, and develop healthier patterns of thinking and relating. My goal is to empower you to build resilience, find meaning, and create positive change in your life.

Psychologist Jasmine Ortiz providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Jasmine Ortiz

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 143363
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
15 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am also Bilingual in English and Spanish.

Psychologist Jack Bowman providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Jack Bowman

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 42855
Mental Wellness Specialties: LGBTTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementSelf esteem
28 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Crystal Garcia providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Crystal Garcia

Clinician
License Type(s): OR LCSW L15051, CA LICSW 130965
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
9 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Oregon and Washington with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.

Psychologist Cristina Dawes providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Cristina Dawes

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 45948
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoaching
25 years offering treatment

Hello and thanks for reaching out! I have been practicing in California with 25 years of work experience, of which 17 have been licensed. I specifically trained and have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, depression, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. 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!

Psychologist Juan Pauli providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Juan Pauli

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW LCSW129448
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma, & abuse. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Hablo español fluido. Eu tambén falo portugues.

Psychologist Sherri Kardell providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Sherri Kardell

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 113970
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
7 years offering treatment

Dear potential client (s) My name is Sherri and I am a licensed marriage family therapist and life coach in California. I offer psychotherapy and life coaching to individuals grappling with some of life's more challenging transitions. Whether you are experiencing grief from the loss of a significant loved one, the end of the a significant relationship, or have a broken heart, I am here to be a calm presence during turbulent times. Perhaps you are experiencing a cycle of stops and starts, but have been unable to access a sense of inner calm. Or you have experienced repetitive patterns of loneliness, an inability to decipher your life's purpose, or you struggle to form and/or maintain intimate partnerships. I work with individuals in order to improve self confidence and live more authentic lives, resolve relationship conflicts, and process early relational wounding and trauma in order to resolve faulty belief systems and address unconscious patterns. I work primarily from an attachment based understanding of human development that seeks to reclaim aspects of the self that were left by the wayside in order to adapt to early conditioning, often related to cultural norms, rigid gender conditioning, and outdated social expectations. I offer a depth of tools designed to help you reconnect with your core sense of self, and heal early relational wounding that have shaped your belief systems and sense of worthiness in the world. In addition to 6 + years of clinical experience, I have earned the highest level of education in my field. Additionally, I have committed myself to a decade if spiritual practice, which has given me the ability to see through entrenched defense systems and patterns, and has helped me to develop a deep sense of empathy and attunement to the unconscious whispers of the soul. I offer a highbred approach to psychotherapy that often includes life-coaching. I conceptualize my role as akin to the Irish concept of "soul friend" a Celtic concept that emphasizes the importance of having someone that acts as a confidant that connects and understands you at the deepest level. Thus, I believe in treating others with respect, sensitively and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific goals. I understand, from my own experience, that taking the first step towards a more fulfilling life often takes courage and I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Marc Sherman providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Marc Sherman

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 141246
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with over 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. 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 Cherina Medina providing different types of therapy in Big Bear Lake

Cherina Medina

Clinician
License Type(s): CO LCSW CSW.09932330, CA LCSW 116770
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
15 years offering treatment

CJ Medina, here. I am a trauma-informed Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California and Colorado who has worked with at-risk youth, veterans, and people with disabilities. Though, I primarily work with children recently, I have worked with adults in many capacities. I would like to have a balance of adults and youth 13-19 years old. Any younger and telehealth is not the medium for me because of the need for direct play. Adults need to access their inner child, too. I have 15 years experience with kindergarten through higher education and beyond. Special Education is my specialty, and I am old and wise in the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process, disability law, and targeted counseling services. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is my original specialty for children and adults and I have extensive knowledge, psychoeducation, and coping skills/tools to share. I also am a trauma-informed counselor. A sexual assault trained counselor. And super funny to talk to. I am also a Rodeo Clown after all. True story. I have a deep passion for my work and I know it is my sacred purpose. I am Native American (Apache and Navajo/N'de Diné) and I integrate some of my traditions of mindfulness/prayer, meditation, and instructive storytelling into my practice if the client is open to it. My sense of humor is a very important component. I believe that laughter is healing and a momentary relief. What might be happening for you might not be funny, but we'll imagine what it would be like if you had to tell your story at the comedy club. That is, if you're ready for that. Otherwise, I know when to be serious, I know when to listen, and I know when to stop talking myself. It's your session. You, as a client, are ready to address your fears, perceived obstacles and are inspired to take care of yourself in this way. You have decided therapy can be helpful and provide you with the third-party, unbiased ear that you can't get from friends and family. I am just yours. You're very own counselor. Hopefully you enjoy telling and hearing stories, because I am interested in yours. If you like to laugh, I believe that's one of the best medicines. Being able to cry is a great release. If you come with an open mind and heart, we can do great work together.

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.

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, 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 Big Bear Lake.

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.
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