If you are seeking mental health services in Gardena, CA, numerous therapists offer diverse counseling styles and therapeutic approaches tailored to meet a variety of needs. These services often facilitate self discovery and can assist in managing cyclical internal conflict. Through the guidance of a therapist, individuals may gain the ability to gain insight into their behaviors and emotions, which is crucial for those engaged in self exploration.

Many therapists in the area focus on building a trusting relationship with their clients, providing a foundation of compassionate understanding. This relationship is vital for effectively addressing issues like stress and enhancing stress management techniques. It can be particularly beneficial for those looking to bolster their inner strength and achieve personal growth.

It's important to consider that the best therapists are those who align well with your personal needs and goals, offering support that resonates with your unique situation. This alignment is generally crucial for effective therapy and sustained wellbeing.

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

This is Brigette Girardey's avatar and link to their profile

Brigette Girardey

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! My name is Brigette and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in East Bay, California. I have 10 years experience working with clients, providing therapeutic counseling services. I have worked with a diverse population of clients ranging from children, teens, adults, and elders. I provide services for individuals and families assisting with issues such as depression, isolation, anxiety, self esteem, trauma, loss, relationship issues, parenting issues, and more. I enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds and I value genuineness and collaboration with my clients. I provide a safe and supportive holding environment that is authentic and nonjudgmental in nature. I tailor my specific approach depending on client situation, needs, and goals for therapy. As well as draw from theories such as CBT, Solution Focused, Family Systems, and Client Centered modalities. Growth and change are encouraged through self reflection and finding practical solutions to problems. Making a change can feel overwhelming and scary, but if you are ready to take the first step and begin the road to a new way of life, I am here to help uplift and support you! I appreciate your courage and I look froward to hearing from you!

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Lesley Schwam

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My name is Lesley Schwam, I am from Los Angeles, California. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist LMFT since 2015. I began graduate school in 2009 and started earning my counseling hours toward licensure during graduate school. My work experience varies from working with adolescents prior to licensing, to now working with adults 18 years of age and older. My treatment approach is from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Narrative Therapy perspective. I believe individuals have the ability to change behaviors daily and I also believe in helping individuals find solutions to help move forward with life goals. I have experience working with Trauma, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Grief and Loss, as well as Adjustment Disorders and phase of life transitions including finding a new job, a new career, entering retirement, or adjusting to a new role in life. I focus first on self care, coping skills, setting short and long term goals, and learning boundary setting skills, as well as positive communication skills. By setting and reaching goals we learn what we are capable of, and I know each individual person is capable of more than they believe.

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This is Lyndsy Mirasola's avatar and link to their profile

Lyndsy Mirasola

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,90200
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefBipolar disorderDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years experience working with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, career challenges, grief/loss, psychosis and relationship problems. My counseling style is warm, empowering, and interactive. I believe in treating people with compassion, sensitivity and respect. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral and the humanistic approach. I also provide DBT, Trauma informed Care, and other modalities if appropriate . I am an EMDR Clinician in Training. I will tailor my approach and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Everyone has a story and I would like to hear yours. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you.

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William Martinez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I bring 20 years of experience of working with adults, youth and their families when in crises and experiencing pain. I have worked with individuals who have experienced trauma, depression and anxiety. I work alongside you to better understand your situation or your feelings, so that we can develop a care plan which will help alleviate any anguish or suffering. My passion lies in helping families and couples with their communication, utilizing practical and realistic interventions that will strengthen their bond and help them achieve their goals. I also work with couples who are experiencing miscommunication issues and are striving to better understand their partners. My expertise's also lie in working with families that are struggling and who have children who are excessively fearful, angry or sad. I work alongside them to help them overcome difficult transitions in life (death, unexpected changes, family crises). I have a sensitivity to youth who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or with special needs. I use evidenced based practices such as the Gottman Method for couples, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy as a framework for progress. However, I find that my life experiences of working with kids/teenagers as a Big Brother, Boys Scouts and youth support groups have allowed me to better understand youth.

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Erica Youngblood

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): MSW, LCSW
Self esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

We all have those moments in life where we want a kind person to be present, listen and encourage us through what may be a difficult time. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I have worked in the therapeutic setting for the past 8 years providing a gentle presence to clients in need. I am available to those individuals who may be struggling with self-love, finding purpose and meaning in life and life changes. I use motivational interviewing, solution focused counseling and client-centered care to help you move forward in your life. I am a kind presence, who is ready to listen and help you achieve your goals. Also specializes in counseling for: Single women navigating dating and situationships Talking through breakups Work Stress and Burnout Boundaries Creating the life that you want

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This is Maureen Daniel's avatar and link to their profile

Maureen Daniel

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefIntimacy-related issuesEating disorders
33 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 33 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & intimacy related issues. 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.

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Enros Manaligod

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): MA,MFT,IMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuse
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Currently, my availability on BetterHelp is Mondays only. If more availability is required, another provider may better fit your needs. Welcome! My name is Enros, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT). I work with individuals (children, adolescents, and adults), families, and couples. I welcome all families, traditional and non-traditional. I am fully licensed in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Florida, Nevada, Ohio, and Vermont. My specialties include relationships, families, grief, and trauma. Additionally, as a military veteran, I have a unique perspective of veterans: separation, deployment, and the rigors of military life. I approach therapy as a collaborator, not an expert. I find the most joy in learning about you directly from you. Relationships are complicated, especially the relationships that are most important to us. Many of us feel the need for connection, security, and love. However, sometimes we end up hurt and alone. Relational pain can show up as anxiety, fear, depression, or grief, among other things. I firmly believe that relationships, empathy, and humor are the most powerful tools for helping clients experience lasting change. My most significant reward as a professional helper is watching my clients go from despair to possibility. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Vanessa Hernandez's avatar and link to their profile

Vanessa Hernandez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Ana Gallardo

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
22 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Do you often find yourself worried about something that happened, two days ago or twenty years ago? Do these feelings come up unexpectedly and you often have trouble sleeping? Do you feel disconnected from others? If you answered yes, you might feel ready for a change but you are having trouble doing it alone. Sometimes we just need someone to help provide us with the necessary tools to connect with our own inner strength when facing life’s challenges. You are not alone; together we can explore and resolve the hardships in your life. My name is Ana Gallardo I am a therapist for 22-years and I specialize in the needs of women, children, and adolescents, with an emphasis in sexual abuse, childhood traumas, mood/anxiety disorders, postpartum depression, and relationship issues. Sometimes family and friends mean well and they try to help or support you, but somehow they just don't understand where you are coming from. It's time to let go of all the things that are holding you back. Please don't go one more day, I would like to hear your story.

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This is Coryll Walsh's avatar and link to their profile

Coryll Walsh

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issues
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with parenting issues. 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.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Gardena

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

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Gardena 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 Gardena, elsewhere in Los Angeles, 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 Gardena 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 Gardena 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 Gardena 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 Gardena 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 Gardena online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Gardena, 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 Gardena 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 Gardena 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 Gardena 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 Gardena 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 Gardena 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 Gardena?

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

Gardena 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 Gardena 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 Gardena 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 90249 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 Gardena counselor?

Before seeing your Gardena 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 Gardena.

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 Gardena 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 Gardena 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 Gardena, 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.

Gardena 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 Gardena, 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 Gardena.

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

90247, 90249

Popular cities near Gardena, CA

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