The nickname of Goleta, California is “the Good Land,” and those who live there tend to agree. Right on the coast, the Pacific Ocean plays a big part in why so many people like to hang out in Goleta. The town was named after a sailing ship that wrecked at the mouth of the lagoon. In fact, Goleta is Spanish for schooner. 

What’s more, Katy Perry, the pop singer and songwriter and Danny Duffy, from the Kansas City Royals, are both from Goleta. Whether you enjoy pop music, baseball, the ocean, or whatever, when you are feeling down or lost, you may need someone to talk to. Goleta has many devoted therapists ready to help you right now. 

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Self esteem, Career difficulties
Years of Experience: 18

I've been doing therapy for over 10 years, helping various needs. I'm a licensed LMFT that has assisted children, teens and families in learning new skills to manage, anger, depression, anxiety, stress, build confidence, self esteem building, transgender issues, and various other situations. It's a joy to walk help people within their search for healing, insight, and empowerment. Sometimes it is hard to access the inner guide we have due to outside influences, fear, doubt, or from being out of alignment. Asking for help is one of the hardest things you can do, bu...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Years of Experience: 9

Hi! My name is Katie Aab and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Riverside, California. I have over seven years experience as a therapist, in both the Community Mental Health model and in Private Practice. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University in 2013. My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, career challenges, mood disorders, substance use issues, and OCD. I have also worked with clients who struggle with stress, loss, abuse/ne...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, LGBT, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem
Years of Experience: 24

With over twenty years of professional experience, I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, who uses Strength and Evidence-based techniques to help people overcome symptoms of anxiety and /or depression. I meet you where you are using a positive Client-centered approach. This means we work on your priorities, in English or Spanish. We establish your goals, learn and practice new skills that you will be able to use throughout your life to meet future challenges, and successfully improve the quality of your life-to your standards. I see problems as opportunities...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Grief, Parenting issues, Coaching
Years of Experience: 40

Hello: I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with 35+ years of clinical experience. Consequently I have a number of areas of interest and expertise that include: mental health, substance use disorders, grief and loss, spectrum disorders, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, relational issues and family therapy. I describe myself as a classically trained therapist with an eclectic tool box. Although I have worked extensively in the public sector, I received all of my clinical supervision for my license in private practice. I enjoy working with people who are ...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Intimacy-related issues, Self esteem, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 18

I am a Marriage and Family therapist licensed in California for 15 years. As a Psychotherapist, I work with a variety of clients covering many of the personal and relationship issues we all struggle to cope with at one time or another in our lives. Depression, anxiety, stress related problems, relationship concerns, feelings of guilt or shame and even one’s life purpose are all areas that can contribute to temporary or longer periods of difficulties in need of understanding, acceptance and restoration. One’s healing can come from different sources and often...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Parenting issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 15

I am a marriage and family therapist. I work with children, families, couples and adults for more than 25 years. I am friendly, warm and down-to- earth. I am skilled in delivering Christian Faith Base Counseling. I specialized in working with trauma, depression, anxiety, domestic violence, anger management, drug counseling and most mental health difficulties. I used evidence base interventions and employed current scientific findings to generate quick relief from symptoms. I provide support and understanding. I specialized in using CBT to help people change their...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Grief, Career difficulties, Depression
Years of Experience: 15

Changes in life circumstances can cause stress, anxiety, anger, depression and a whole host of other emotions. Your experiences are important to me and as a Therapist my role is to work with you to provide support, hope and healing. Throughout the treatment process, we will develop meaningful insight, solutions, and new strategies for the challenges you are experiencing. I am Cherie Dockery, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 15 years experience working with adults, youth and families experiencing depression, trauma, addiction, crisis, a...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 6

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Bipolar disorder, Depression, ADHD
Years of Experience: 20

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients on a spectrum that ranges from mindfulness, anxiety disorders, depression, grief and loss, compassion fatigue, to crisis management, homelessness, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and overall coping with life changes. I am heart centered with a warm approach and make every effort to help my clients reconnect with what matters most to them in their lives. I have experience with working with clients that ran...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, LGBT, Relationship issues, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 30

I am licensed in Hawaii, California and Pennsylvania with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Specialties: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 6

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, 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.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 8

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology. I have worked with individuals, couples, families, and groups for over 8 years, in person and telehealth. I am currently licensed in California and Texas. I was the Executive Director at Discovery Counseling Center for several years and transitioned to Director-at-Large in 2022 when I relocated to San Antonio, TX to focus on my nonprofit, Isaiah D. Jamison Community Wellness Center. We are a community and faith-based organization that offers multiple programs and se...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Depression
Years of Experience: 20

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 9

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 14

I am licensed in California, Nevada and Wisconsin with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & working with military members, as a Department of Defense contractor for active, reserve and veterans. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How To Find Counseling In Your Area

Finding the right therapist close by in Goleta can feel intimidating. Once you narrow your search for a counselor near the Goleta area, you're closer to finding providers accepting new clients.

First, research what type of therapy you'd like to pursue before finding a therapist or psychologist. You might be interested in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, marriage and family therapy, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits. If you're still unsure, consider asking your prospective counselors which methods they practice.

When you're ready to search for a counselor in Goleta, scroll through the options. Next, consider what type of therapy you'd like your counselor to be most experienced with. Finally, choose a provider located near you in the city of Goleta or elsewhere in Santa Barbara or the state of California.

Mental health professionals working through their own practice or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships and communication skills, working through life's obstacles, or changing negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a listening ear and validation. Verified Goleta counselors can provide licensed marriage and compassionate counseling, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

How Do Costs Of Conventional Counseling Compare To BetterHelp With A Goleta Counselor?

Forbes reports that the average price of an in-person therapy session with a counselor in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Goleta 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 in Goleta: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists in Goleta: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist in Goleta: $100
  • Therapy with a mental health counselor in Goleta: $80

Some counselors 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 counselors serving the city of Goleta and elsewhere throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with counselor sessions ranging from $60 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks).

How Does Working With A Counselor On BetterHelp Work?

It's important to note that these counselors treat clients online. Online providers, including the US-based providers above, can work with people like you in or around Goleta virtually. You do not have to commute to a counselor's office to meet with one of these counselors.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, receive worksheets, and sign up for mental health webinars. Additionally, the BetterHelp app offers a journaling feature.

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy with a counselor. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists specializing in behavioral health and relationships. You can also try a provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. Look through the available counselors above and consider which might work for you. Professionals on BetterHelp specialize in several mental health issues and modalities. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

Goleta has many professionals who provide client-centered individual counseling in person and through online therapy. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the US. Many individuals gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy. In Goleta, therapy can be easily to use and a click away.

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 they may struggle to provide objective guidance. Counselors are also professionals trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist may support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health or life concerns. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another benefit of therapy with a licensed counselor is having a 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 Goleta counselor 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 can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With almost one million people in Goleta, CA, finding a counselor can be costly, and they may be booked out with clients. Through the list of counselors above and others through BetterHelp, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching for a nearby psychotherapist close to 93117 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 in Goleta can be a great option.

How Should I Prepare For My First Session With A Goleta Counselor? 

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading about the counseling process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist. 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 why you're attending therapy.

Should I See A Counselor 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 counselors often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend counseling. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor 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 with a counselor.

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 Crying In Therapy A Breakthrough?

Crying can be a breakthrough for some individuals who struggle to express emotions. Others might find that they often cry during sessions with their counselor. Crying can be normal and healthy, so whether you cry or not may be a personal aspect of sessions.

Is Mental Health Care Worth It?

We may all be on different paths in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, counselors are trained to meet you where you're at. Counseling can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy each year, showing it's a popular option and may be often effective when working with a licensed counselor.

Do Therapists Judge You? 

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. Their job as your counselor is to support you and make you feel safe and respected. 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 to learn more about BetterHelp therapists to understand the services available to you clearly. If you have any questions, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online counseling, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched with a counselor 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:

There are all kinds of therapists in the Goleta area, including:

  • CBT in Goleta
  • DBT in Goleta
  • Substance use therapy in Goleta
  • Couples therapy in Goleta

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Goleta.

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

93117, 93118

Popular Cities Near Goleta, CA

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