In Brentwood, CA, individuals seeking to address their mental health concerns or to promote personal growth may find a supportive network of licensed psychologists and therapists. These professionals, who are experienced in the mental health field, often work in community settings and use a client-centered approach to treatment. This approach is particularly beneficial for those who feel stuck and are striving to increase their self-awareness.

Many therapists in Brentwood specialize in fields such as life coaching, which can help individuals set and achieve personal and professional goals. For example, life coaching sessions may focus on developing qualities like being a good listener or strengthening connection with others, which are crucial for effective communication and relationship building.

Additionally, specific services are available that cater to women, providing a safe and understanding space to discuss and manage unique challenges. This can be especially important for those seeking to deepen relationships or navigate life transitions.

Brentwood's proximity to San Francisco allows for a unique blend of local focus and access to broader metropolitan resources, enhancing the support network available to residents.

Please see the therapist profiles below for more information on the different therapists available online.

This is Erin Hamer's avatar and link to their profile

Erin Hamer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! My name is Erin and I am from California. I have been a social worker for over 12 years and have experience working with people from all different walks of life who may be going through some struggling times. I received my Bachelor as well as my Masters of Social Work from Clark Atlanta University (CAU) with a concentration in Health/Mental Health. I understand it can be hard to find a counselor who you feel comfortable speaking with. My approach is empathetic and supportive. The feedback I’ve received from clients is that they find me to be nonjudgmental, relatable and honest. Much of my experience has been working with clients who are dealing with Relationship issues, Family conflict, Anger management, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Woman’s issues, Spirituality and Coping with life changes. I would be a good match for anyone interested in a counselor of color and/or those seeking Christian counseling. I also have experience and am comfortable working with LGBTQ+ issues. I believe at beginning services where you are. I am available to you via phone, video and text depending on whatever is more comfortable for you. A majority of my availability is in the evenings but I can be flexible if needed during the day as well. I really enjoy my work and look forward to helping people learn more about themselves as they navigate through the world. Let us continue to reduce the stigma of mental illness as we grow and empower one another.

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Heather Parenti

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesEating disordersDepression
21 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My clients come in with many different troubles and often, the troubles lead to a great many other problems that they have or have had in their lives. There is no problem too big and there is a way to live better. I believe we are looking for contentment. To feel "okay" and, today's society tries to warp us into believing we are not okay because we need something else than what we have right now. We all have the capacity to choose a better life, better relationships, better care for ourselves. The answer is not outside of us but within. I work with children, teens and adults that think they're not enough. We are all enough. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 20 years, licensed in both California and Connecticut. I received my degree from California University Long Beach, living in Southern California most of my life until moving to Connecticut in 2017. I am a professional and have worked in many entities including private practice since 2004, the medical and mental health community, the education system, and athletic coaching. I have been a competitive athlete since childhood and continue training and competing through all life transitions. Additionally, I have created space and time to practice yoga and meditation. I have also accepted that I am an artist - writing, drawing and painting through change and growth. My treatment approach is varied based on my client. My main theoretical framework is probably Cognitive Behavioral Therapy but also utilize Mindfulness/Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy. I can help individuals who are experiencing many things in life. I have clients and former clients leading full, enriched lives because of the guidance I have provided through the therapeutic process. .

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Holly Henderson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LMHC
LGBTFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
19 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Welcome! It's a big step to seek out counseling, and I want to share about my experience so you can decide whether I might be a good match for your counseling needs. I am available for counseling by text, chat, video, and phone. At this time I am offering live sessions on weekend mornings (until 12pm Eastern time) and messaging at anytime. I have a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Seattle, following a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Florida, with a minor in Women's Studies and Gender Issues. I have been working in the field since 2003 in a variety of settings -- ranging from inpatient, mobile crisis, and triage to community-based counseling, home-based counseling, residential, and telehealth; with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My passion lies in working with clients to uncover their true identity -- who they really are and who they can become once the severity of depression, anxiety, and trauma have been processed and alleviated. I approach therapy from a strengths-based, client-centered perspective, offering every client unconditional positive regard, respect, encouragement, and hope. Some of the tools I use include CBT, Trauma-Focused CBT, knowledge of family systems and intergenerational trauma, communication skills, and mindfulness. Also, I believe that humor in therapy is seriously underrated... We are a team, and my goal is to help you achieve your goals. My hope is for you to bring your whole self to therapy so that we can work together to help you be as whole as you can be. Let's do this.

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This is Rodney Lackey 's avatar and link to their profile

Rodney Lackey

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesAnger managementDepression
60 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 60 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & 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!

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Cindy Cothran

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LPC-MHSP
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
18 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, starting therapy can be tough and I hope to make the first steps easier if possible. It is my belief that therapy can be a place of emotional refuge and I work hard to let each person know that their best interest comes first. I hope that through understanding and gentle humor, we can find connection and work on the challenges that brought you to seek a therapist. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, a loss, life changes, trauma or some other circumstance, I hope to support and help you through the situation. I have been a therapist for more than 15 years and in that time I have honed a flexible set of therapy skills that I adapt to match your personal life goals. No matter which therapeutic approach I am utilizing, my style is always sincere and wholehearted. I believe in the goodness of all people and that we are all worthy of respect. I do lean toward evidenced-based therapeutic approaches and I am trained in a variety of models/ techniques. If I had to describe my therapeutic style in a few words, I would say that I am an attachment-based therapist with an eclectic therapy style as I draw from such approaches as mindfulness, solution based therapy, cognitive behavioral approaches, Hakomi, somatic approaches and EMDR. I look forward to working with you as you take the next step to living the life you want to live!

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Timothy Rogers

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California and Arizona with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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 as you transcend to new levels of insight. **Currently only accepting clients with Men's Issues and LGBTQIA+ members**

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This is Melissa Filla's avatar and link to their profile

Melissa Filla

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Elissa Duggan's avatar and link to their profile

Elissa Duggan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
AddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesBipolar disorderCoping with life changes
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed mental health professional in California with five years of diverse experience supporting clients dealing with addictions, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, bipolar disorder, and military-related challenges. As a dedicated and empathetic therapist, I create a safe and open environment for clients to freely express themselves. With my personalized approach, I guide clients seeking to overcome obstacles and take their first steps toward a fulfilling and happier life. As you choose to be courageous in sharing your truth with me, you can trust that I am here to listen without judgment and support you in seeking the changes you desire for yourself. Let's work together to achieve your goals

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This is Christina Handal's avatar and link to their profile

Christina Handal

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I am excited about the opportunity to continue my work with individuals, couples, families and children. I approach my work with respect, cultural awareness and a strong belief in self-empowerment. Our time together will be supportive, collaborative, focused and goal driven. Although I am continually learning and searching for what works, Reality Therapy/Choice Theory is my primary theoretical approach. I believe my purpose is to help clients discover, clarify and maximize their potential for healing/growth. I am a strong believer in the healing power of good relationships, so my work is framed by the intent to help folks get along better with the important people in their lives.

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This is Alison Bunasawa's avatar and link to their profile

Alison Bunasawa

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Alison Bunasawa is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 15 years of experience treating child, adolescent and adult clients. Alison utilizes a combination of modalities tailored to fit each clients’ unique needs. Through Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused and Client Centered therapies along with an approachable demeanor and emphasis on the relationship with each client, Alison prides herself on meeting the client where they are at and making the therapy experience a positive one! *Areas of specialization: Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Life Transitions, Coping Skills, Self-Esteem, Children, Teens, Families, Parenting/Behavior Modification

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Brentwood

Finding the best therapist close by in Brentwood 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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood. 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 Brentwood, 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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Brentwood 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 Brentwood, elsewhere in Contra Costa, 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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Brentwood, 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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood?

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

Brentwood 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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood 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 94513 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 Brentwood counselor?

Before seeing your Brentwood 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 Brentwood.

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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood 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 Brentwood, 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.

Brentwood 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 Brentwood, California

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 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 Brentwood.

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

94513

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