Selecting a mental health practitioner may be one of the most significant steps you take on your journey to wellness and self-betterment. Whether you need help managing a mental health condition, achieve personal goals, or need a new perspective to help solve issues in your life, the right therapist can likely help. A mental health professional can also help with relationship or family concerns. Armed with the right tools, a therapist can help you address parenting problems, respect kids’ needs, and build a peaceful and happy home. 

A therapist might use several treatment approaches to help you address your concerns. Many therapists prefer a team approach, where you work collaboratively to find solutions and directions for change. The therapist might be a source of encouragement and support, or they might be more directive and give you instructions or exercises to perform. The exact therapeutic approach will depend on your needs and the therapist’s area of specialization. 

When considering which practitioner is right for you, it’s often helpful to think about whether their specialty suits your needs. For example, if you need help managing the symptoms of depression, a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in eating disorders may not be the best fit for you. Instead, you’ll likely want to search for a practitioner with extensive experience treating depression or helping their clients manage mood disorders. 

If you’re ready to begin your journey with a therapist, Foster City, CA, has plenty of professionals available to help you achieve your ultimate goal for therapy. If practitioners in Foster City don’t meet your needs, you could also consider heading south to Silicon Valley or north to San Francisco. Therapists practice in various settings throughout the entire Bay Area, making it likely you can find a professional who suits your needs. You might also want to consider online therapy, which lets you bypass travel completely and attend sessions from home or another comfortable location. 

The practitioners listed below serve Foster City and nearby communities. Consider looking at their profiles to determine whether their expertise meets your needs. You can also learn about their qualifications and read reviews from past clients to get a sense of their therapeutic approach. 

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Psychologist April Zariczny - Nunez providing different types of therapy in Foster City

April Zariczny - Nunez

Clinician
License Type(s): OR LMFT T2224, CA LMFT 107000
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCareer difficulties
5 years offering treatment

I believe we all have abilities to transform, heal and move towards a greater level of wellness in our lives. Each person is unique with their own challenges and experiences that may later manifest as road blocks that can impact their capacity to be fully present in life. These can hold us back from achieving our full potential. My holistic approach integrates Mind-Body, Art Therapy, Yoga, Somatic and Embodied Mindfulness practices. The events we experience impact us in a holistic way - physically, cognitively, spiritually and emotionally. Integrated Body/Mind approaches to therapy offer us a holistic way to heal. I provide clients with a safe space for them to explore their inner landscape. In addition to this, I offer resources, research and psycho-education to assist clients in gaining deeper understanding and empowerment with each step of the therapeutic process, integrating these tools within a Solutions Focused Methodology. LMFT - Licensed Marriage Family Therapist - 2018 ​- California BBS License # 107000 CYT - Certified Yoga Therapist- 2022

Psychologist Dr. Frederick  Smoot providing different types of therapy in Foster City

Dr. Frederick Smoot

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 12959
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years offering treatment

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (CA #12959) with over 15 years of experience counseling/ accompanying persons through difficult parts of their life-journeys. I have worked with a wide range of concerns including Isolation. loneliness, fearfulness, anxiety, intimacy/relationship issues, parenting and career challenges, addiction, physical and emotional abuse and life transitions. My counseling style is warm, curious and appropriately truth-telling.. I treat others with respect and consistent presence. I work to sustain and shame-free context that empowers persons to (re)claim their lies and future with dignity. I am an accompanist, using therapeutic tools gathered from several clinical approaches. I am relational, client centered, mindful, and strategic. I believe that direction and goals for therapy are shaped together with the client. We will tailor a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Your willingness to reach out for support shows your courage and desire for a better future. I encourage you to take this step, accompanied and supported I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Jude Patton providing different types of therapy in Foster City

Jude Patton

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT LMFT140542, WA LMFT LF00001250
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTSleeping disordersDepressionADHD
46 years offering treatment

I am an older out/open/proud transgender man. I have expertise and extensive experience in serving transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming clients. I prefer to serve my own community members, but do not discriminate against others. I am licensed as a therapist in California and Washington, as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), with 45 years of professional counseling experience. My professional background also includes having worked as a Psychiatric Physician Associate for 43 years, and as a sex educator and sex therapist. Before my career in human medicine and mental health, I worked for 20+ years as a Veterinary Medical Assistant and understand the value of animal companions and of the natural environment in supporting healthy living. I have experience in treating clients who have ADHD, an autism spectrum disorder, chronic pain/chronic illness, and/or end-of-life concerns, sleeping disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and depression. I believe that you are the expert on your own story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Making the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started. I am looking forward to working with you to find solutions to reach your goals in therapy.

Psychologist Diana Bernhardy providing different types of therapy in Foster City

Diana Bernhardy

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW LCS13837
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
32 years offering treatment

Hello, my name is Diana Bernhardy. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years experience working with diverse groups and treatment issues. Past experiences have included primarily working in a forensic inpatient psychiatric mental health facility providing dydactic treatment with individuals with moderate to severe mental disorders, antisocial /criminal behaviors, and substance abuse. I've also worked in private practice and outpatient mental health services providing various treatment modalities and interventions in addressing various topics, i.e., depression, anxiety, stress, anger, grief/loss , separation issues, self esteem issues, women issues, PTSD/trauma, and case management. I explore the mental, behavior and spiritual aspects of the person to achieve wholeness and wellness. Thank you for reading my profile and I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Dr. Malliga Battar providing different types of therapy in Foster City

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 Jacqueline Hayes providing different types of therapy in Foster City

Jacqueline Hayes

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 50113
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
16 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring 16 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, family conflicts, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing issues such as self-esteem, communication difficulties, social anxiety, and relationship dynamics. My approach is compassionate and tailored, drawing from a deep understanding of human experiences. I'm particularly committed to supporting women, young adults, and individuals wrestling with life transitions, workplace stress, and personal identity. Whether you're struggling with isolation, seeking purpose, or working through relationship challenges, I offer a supportive, understanding environment. Grounded in Christian values and a conservative therapeutic perspective, I create a safe space where clients can explore their emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and move towards healing and self-discovery. My goal is to empower you to build resilience, find inner strength, and create meaningful, positive change in your life.

Psychologist Dr. Mark Charles providing different types of therapy in Foster City

Dr. Mark Charles

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist 30407
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
8 years offering treatment

I am licensed psychologist in California with 8 years of professional experience. I have assisted clients with managing or overcoming a variety of mental wellness challenges, including stress and anxiety & depression. My clients and I collaborate to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Some of my own personal heroes have been former clients who through courage, resilience, and therapeutic support pulled themselves out of an unsatisfactory situation and in Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Pauline Padrul providing different types of therapy in Foster City

Pauline Padrul

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 25630
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California with over twenty years of professional work experience in behavioral health treatment. I also have a Master's degree in Public Health with a strong interest in behavioral epidemiology. I have worked with clients who typically present with stress and anxiety, eating disorders, motivation, self esteem issues & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths with which to overcome challenges and build resilience.

Psychologist Earl Barrios providing different types of therapy in Foster City

Earl Barrios

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 229
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
38 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 36 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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.

Psychologist Dr. Andrea Shirley providing different types of therapy in Foster City

Dr. Andrea Shirley

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 42752
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteem
27 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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 Sophia Dyer providing different types of therapy in Foster City

Sophia Dyer

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 126475
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, 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. 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 Sherri Kardell providing different types of therapy in Foster City

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 Grace Lu providing different types of therapy in Foster City

Grace Lu

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 151683
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years offering treatment

I have worked extensively with a diverse patient population, such as adolescents in high-school settings, geriatrics, those with developmental differences, and those with dual diagnoses, among others. Although predominantly trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy, I also work from a humanistic model, maintaining a humble and tentative stance, since I believe empathy, compassion, and attunement are at the bedrock of the relational dynamic. I am committed to working with you to improve your overall mental and emotional health and well-being, through a collaborative effort.

Psychologist Donice Holbrook providing different types of therapy in Foster City

Donice Holbrook

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 25597
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist that provides specialty in anxiety management and depression. I bring over two decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding and addressing mental health concerns with empathy and professional expertise. I specialize in helping clients navigate a wide range of emotional experiences, including depression, anxiety, stress management, and self-esteem challenges. My therapeutic practice focuses on supporting individuals through significant life transitions, social anxieties, communication difficulties, and personal growth journeys. With a commitment to holistic healing, I offer a supportive environment that honors each client's unique experiences. My work spans diverse areas including women's issues, addiction recovery, family dynamics, and support for individuals facing chronic health challenges. My practice is grounded in a Christian-informed perspective, providing culturally sensitive care that respects individual beliefs and values. I am particularly passionate about supporting older adults and individuals seeking a compassionate, conservative therapeutic approach. I believe in empowering clients to discover their inner strength, develop healthy coping strategies, and create meaningful personal transformation.

Find a Therapist Near You in Foster City , 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 Foster City.

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 Foster City 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
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