In life, it sometimes feels like your life is a sinking ship. You may be able to make repairs, but more often than not, it feels like you should jump ship. What should your decision be? A counselor based in Gilroy can help you decide that. 

Gilroy is named after a sailor who jumped from his ship, according to some historical sources. Sometimes, it’s worth it to jump ship and find another ship. A counselor can help you determine what you should do with all of life’s troubles. Speak to a counselor today and see what the solution can be.

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Amelia (Amy) Benedict

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issues
11 years of experience

"Falling down is a part of life, getting back up is living." - anonymous We all fall down from time to time. It takes courage to seek help and support during those times when we have difficulty getting back up. I commend you for taking the first step. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California. I have a Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology and have been working in this field for over 12 years. I initially made this career choice because I wanted to learn how to help myself and my family. I discovered I had a real passion and talent for connecting with and understanding others. I am currently working with military service members and their families. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, anger management, communication difficulties and parenting. I also have experience working with trauma and abuse. My counseling style is very warm and empathetic. I believe in treating everyone with respect and being non-judgmental. I utilize a combination of cognitive behavioral, humanistic and psychodynamic modalities, with a focus on unconditional positive regard. I will work with you to identify your strengths and tailor treatment to meet your specific needs.

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Kate Byrnes

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Welcome - When you're struggling, it can be exciting to dream of a better future - and also hard to think of making real changes. You might want your life to be better but aren’t yet sure how to make it happen. Or maybe life's given you news and you must adapt, either after a big loss or to respond to the behaviors of others. Making the next set of choices can be very important if you want life to improve again; finding the right therapist to help sort things out can be a relief. My Experience: I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist, fully licensed to practice in both Colorado and California. I have over 15 years experience as a therapist, in both Private Practice and Community Mental Health. I earned my Master's degree in Counselor Education with an emphasis in Marriage, Family and Child Counseling from California State University at Sacramento. My experience includes working with individuals healing through anxiety, depression, trauma, range of relationship issues, as well as self esteem and other personal growth issues. I work with clients who are working on managing life's stresses and changes, workplace and career decisions, addiction, grief & loss and the large and small frustrations of life. My approach: I tend to be compassionate, grounded, goal-oriented, and client-centered. I use Solution Focused therapy, Client Centered Therapy, with an eye on interpersonal relationships and always considering phases of life. I help my clients set a focus on what's needing to change in their lives and working toward better understanding of themselves and others. I'm grateful that my clients often report feeling more clear and at peace once we've talked things through. I often observe my clients taking action and making new decisions during and after our counseling. Over the years, I’ve served incredibly diverse clientele, including all ages, and a range of cultures, sexual orientations and across the gender spectrum, from all walks of life in their countless moments of need, vulnerability, triumph and growth. As a result, I have deep compassion for the complexities of being human. I truly understand how powerful confidential therapy can be for healing, growth and transformation. I hope to talk with you so you can decide if I might be of support to you.

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Felicia Burnett-Lopez

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
13 years of experience

My name is Felicia Burnett-Lopez, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working in the mental health field for over ten years. I earned my Bachelors’ Degree in Psychology and earned my Masters’ Degree in Social Work. My education and experience include human behavior; environmental and biological psychology, substance abuse and addiction; understanding and working in mental health, with people with mental illnesses, within all populations. I chose the field of social work and specifically mental health, since everyone, including myself have life issues, whether they are work related or personal in nature. Being able to have someone who is unbiased and trained to help you process your thoughts, and become part of your support system, is why I chose this career. I enjoy the use of the psychodynamic approach, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, solution focused therapy, and client-centered-therapy, which are all evidenced based practices. My use of these modalities depends on the needs of my client, as treatment is individually tailored to fit the clients needs. I believe that the client is the expert of themselves, and my role as your counselor is to help you better understand yourself, and help you get to a place where you are a happier and healthier version of yourself. The one thing I ask of my clients, is to be genuine, as I will always be genuine with you. Feel safe to vent your true feelings, as I will not judge you! Counseling only works if the client is willing and committed to actively participating in the therapeutic process. I look forward to working with you and helping you improve the quality of your life!

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Gerardo Puga

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
3 years of experience

I take a client centered approach to therapy. It is important to me that my clients and future client feel comfortable with me, the rapport is my priority as it leads to a strong therapeutic alliance. I take a non-judgmental stance and the client is always the expert of his or her life. I have 20 years providing mental health services with various populations. I have extensive experience treating depression/anxiety disorders, personality disorders, addictive behaviors, self esteem issues, sexuality and relationship issues. I utilize various theoretical orientations to address and conceptualize clinical issues.

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Miriam DeBerry

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT-CA 123881,LMFT-MO 2014006569
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California and Missouri. I’ve empathetically cared for those I served for over 17 years in assisting individuals, parents, families, couples from various phases of their lives to gain clarity, perspective, and resolution. My integrative therapeutic approaches of solution-focus, motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused CBT, systemic, client-centered, and acceptance & commitment interventions helped my clients create healthier life choices for a positive present and future. With an open heart, mind, and soul, I will support you into the next stages of your life. Currently, I'm accepting clients who are able to meet mornings and afternoons, Tuesday - Thursday. Evening and Saturday appointments are based on my weekly availability, and upon requests.

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Francisca Ammerman

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

As a licensed marriage and family therapist for over 10 years, I have extensive experience in working with individuals struggling with relational issues as well as depression, anxiety, And trauma. It’s important to be honest with clients and straight forward. Therapy can cause some past emotions to surface but working through those past issues allows for healing.

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Krystyna Soch Ridenour

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience working with a wide range of clients including adults, teens, and children as young as 3. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My aim is to assist clients in developing the insights to make positive, healthy change in their lives and mental health. 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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Ebony Freeman

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Kelly Kratzer

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues (including parenting neurodivergent children), motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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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Kristin Trevino

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
18 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

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How to find counseling in Gilroy

Finding the best therapist close by in Gilroy 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 Gilroy. 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 Gilroy, 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy, elsewhere in Santa Clara, 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 Gilroy area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy, 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 95020 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy, 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.

Gilroy 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 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 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 Gilroy.

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

95020

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