Although this town is called East Palo Alto, it is actually north of Palo Alto and these two towns are actually in different counties. The city is bordered by the San Francisco Bay, Menlo Park, the Bayshore Freeway, and San Francisquito Creek. Knowing where you are situated and where you stand is important. 

If you are feeling like you have no idea what direction you’re heading, or where you stand or what you stand for, consider talking to a licensed professional counselor or therapist about how you are feeling. There are many of them that practice in East Palo Alto who can help. 

This is Evie Ball's avatar and link to their profile

Evie Ball

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Each of you are unique and I honor your individuality by adjusting my approach according to your particular needs and desires, always listening to you with a compassionate and open heart. I am here to help you in any way I can, and create a safe, warm space for your fears, insecurities, relationship difficulties, work stressors, sadness, shame, traumatic experiences, your troubling thoughts and feelings. Whatever seems to be holding you back from being your best self. We work collaboratively to help you find resolve, and uncover the hidden parts of you that are healthy, strong, and resilient. At the heart of our work together is that I deeply connect with you in an honest, therapeutic relationship. It is when you feel safe to be vulnerable and share openly, you discover insights allowing you to move past your current limitations, work through and mend old wounds, and transform unhealthy patterns. I have personally lived through and transcended many of the same life experiences as you, allowing me to be genuinely empathic and connect to your struggles. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapy, at the University of California, Northridge, and I am a LMFT in private practice in Woodland Hills, California

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Cheryl Youngblood

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
4 years of experience

Greetings and welcome. I'm Cheryl Youngblood, a native Californian with over 15 years of experience working with foster and adopted children, and their families. My passion for helping others has been rooted in who I am since I was a child. Working as the director of a foster/adopt agency, and realizing that so many children and families are plagued with trauma, domestic violence, self-injurious behaviors, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and other mental health concerns, I decided that I wanted to expand my knowledge base, and my capacity for helping others, so I obtained my license in social work. Realizing that anxiety may be fueled by one's inability to live in the present, my client-centered focus is a holistic/talk therapy multicultural, eclectic approach, that I utilize while integrating interventions, based on the here and now, and mindfulness. Creating a safe, nurturing environment that allows my clients to feel supported, and empowered, provides me with a venue to introduce interventions, tools, and ideas that are strength based, client-centered, and derived from living in the moment. Some evidenced based treatments that I have found through the years that have been insightful, and provided calmness to my clients are, guided imagery, breathing techniques, sensory tools, tapping and meditation. Providing an empathetic, ear, in a non-judgmental space, with an eagerness and willing to help, is the basis for my ideals for providing the first step towards healing.

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Meghan Pardi

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

Your Mental Health Matters, my goal is to be your guide, confidante and empathetic listening ear while you figure out what you want, what you need and how to get your life in a position where you feel fulfilled and balanced. The world can be a chaotic and stressful place. I am here to help anyone who is willing to process and explore their emotions to heal. The only goal to start with is making the call or sending the e-mail to ask for help. Speaking and hearing your truth can be scary but is necessary for the process of healing to begin. Therapy is a journey that I am honored to take with you to improve your quality of life.

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Sharon Goudeau-Goodall

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Greetings, I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in the state of California to provide therapy. I earned my Master of Social Work from California State University - Sacramento. Over the past 20 years, I have worked with clients who have struggled with a broad variety of issues including anxiety, anger, depression, grief and loss, trauma, and abuse. Additionally, I have experience with individuals who have been diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness. My work experience includes but is not limited to state hospitals, county jails, state prisons, community mental health and medical clinics, re-entry and senior-focused programs, My therapeutic approach primarily consists of motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral theory, and solution-focused therapy. I am committed to helping clients improve their lives.

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Brittany Taylor

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California as well as Ohio with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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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Carolyn Rivera

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I have worked in a wide variety of settings with very diverse populations including young at-risk children, teens, families in crisis and older adults. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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. I believe that every person deserves to be seen and heard. I have a very transparent approach and try to be relatable and down to earth. I like to mix my therapeutic approach with Motivational Interviewing, DBT and also real-world experiences to help you find the style that best suits you to meet you where you are at and helps you find comfort.

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Brittany Watkins

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues to name a few. I believe that you are the expert of your story and I use non-traditional therapeutic methods such as movement, music, art, & mindfulness that allow for a more deeper and individualized experience in therapy. I am looking forward to walking along side of you if you are ready to glow & grow.

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Sarah Torgrimson

Offering therapy in CA
Parenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
8 years of experience

Hello, I'm Sarah, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst with over 15 years of experience in mental health. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, and compassion. My passion is enhancing the lives of those affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD), whether it's a child on the spectrum or an individual themselves. I specialize in supporting parents facing the unique challenges of raising children with disabilities. My practice centers on improving social-emotional skills, self-esteem, and addressing motivation issues. I also have experience working with adults dealing with anxiety and depression. I'm committed to creating a safe and understanding space where individuals can explore their strengths and realize their fullest potential. Let's embark on this transformative journey together, tailored to meet your unique needs. Taking the first step towards therapy is courageous, and I commend you for getting started!

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sona topalian

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepression
4 years of experience

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, & 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.

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Olga Swenson

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 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. 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 counseling in East Palo Alto

Finding the best therapist close by in East Palo Alto can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in East Palo Alto. 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 East Palo Alto, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in East Palo Alto or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater East Palo Alto area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of East Palo Alto, elsewhere in San Mateo, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed East Palo Alto 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 East Palo Alto 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 East Palo Alto may not take health insurance, some in the state of California may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

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

Therapists in East Palo Alto, California working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in East Palo Alto 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 East Palo Alto helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified East Palo Alto therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a East Palo Alto therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A East Palo Alto therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in CA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 94303 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a East Palo Alto counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A East Palo Alto licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in East Palo Alto, 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.

East Palo Alto has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on 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 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 East Palo Alto.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in East Palo Alto:

94303

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