It does not always feel like the sun is shining when you are mired in depressing thoughts and feelings of anxiety. Those who suffer from depression and anxiety problems have a difficult time with many aspects of life. It can be tough to cope with these feelings while trying to keep things together. You do not have to remain in the dark and suffer alone, as it is possible to reach out to dedicated Hillsborough-area counselors.

Contacting counselors from the Hillsborough area will allow you to make progress on your issues. You can speak to counselors that care about you and want to help you move forward in life. They are understanding and can definitely relate to your situation. Take the time to speak with a counselor today so that you can start to see brighter days once again.

This is Okechuku Nwanganga's avatar and link to their profile

Okechuku Nwanganga

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepression
10 years of experience

My name is Robert and I would be honored to be your Therapist. I would like to tell you about myself. I have been a Social Worker for the past 20 years and I have worked with a lot of different people in a variety of situations. I am working on a new schedule. My schedule is 6am to 2:00 pm on Mondays and Wednesdays, 6 am to 11 am then 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm Tuesdays and Thursdays as well as Sundays from 1pm to 8 pm Sundays Pacific Standard Time. I am very comfortable conducting therapy via video or phone but not Live chat The most important thing I need you to know about me and how I work is that I believe Social Work to be a calling and I truly believe in the power of Therapy to change lives. I believe that talking about the things that hurt us provides us with the power to overcome them. I am more interested in your strengths than your diagnoses. I am more interested in empowering you to make your own decisions than I am in you doing what is “right.” Regarding therapy, I am not bound to any one theoretical approach. I tend to utilize a variety of approaches in therapy because I want to provide you with a personalized therapeutic experience. I need you to know that I will only focus on what you think is important. I will not push you to share anything that you are not comfortable sharing but I will ask you questions about things I think are important to provide insight into the situation at hand. I will always be honest with you in every situation and I will continue to exhibit compassion and empathy towards your situation. One of my favorite sayings regarding therapy is that “It matters because it matters to you.” I look forward to working with you.

This is Negin  Didehbani 's avatar and link to their profile

Negin Didehbani

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
9 years of experience

Hello! My name is Negin and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT). I have over eight years of experience in working with mental health and substance use concerns. I have worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings including: crisis facilities, residential facilities, non-profit organizations, correctional facilities and outpatient behavioral health centers. I work with clients to address their specific needs and identified goals. I understand that each client's personal journey is unique, therefore, my approach is tailored to fit each individual’s particular needs. I have a passion for emotional healing that improves relationships and the overall quality of daily experiences for each individual and family. My therapy style is person centered and supportive yet direct. I do my best to guide my clients into gaining insight into the causes of their problems. I am adept in working with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, dual- diagnosis, self-esteem, couples counseling, family therapy, and acute mental health disorders. My approach to therapy is to give clients the tools and skills they need to achieve their goals, personal growth, and find purpose and meaning. In my clinical work, I utilize a variety of interventions from a few different evidence based modalities to best address your needs. I particularly enjoy utilizing interventions from cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, solution focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. I look forward to working with you!

This is Susan Cristol's avatar and link to their profile

Susan Cristol

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionADHD
15 years of experience

When a therapist is welcoming and non-judgmental, it is much easier to seek help. I am passionate about working with clients to find more effective communication strategies. You can make positive changes in your life. There are ways to regulate anger and anxiety and I can help. I can also show you the path toward healing unresolved grief and loss, as well as trauma. These issues can keep you from living your best life without shame and sadness. I have spent most of my working life in a helping profession. I have been providing counseling for 14 years. Before becoming a licensed therapist, I had a career as a special education teacher. That experience informs my work today whether I am working with children, adolescents, couples or adults. I stay current on clinical research and the many writings in the areas of psychology, sociology and marriage and family therapy. My specialized training includes (but not limited to) cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma and abuse, domestic violence and play therapy. I look forward to meeting potential clients and joining them in their path toward becoming their best selves and living their best lives. I have an eclectic toolbox that includes many aspects of different psychological theories and interventions. At the beginning, there is an assessment process taking place for the first few sessions. I determine at that time what drawer in the toolbox would work most effectively. I may have the client complete certain questionnaires as part of the assessment. Throughout therapy, there is a fine tuning of the process. It is important to mention that during the initial phase of therapy, the primary focus is on meeting the client where they are. This is a collaborative relationship that is driven by the direction the client needs to go and my experience and knowledge in helping them get there. I am very curious and observant, as every good therapist should be. Some of the therapies I utilize are Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic and Narrative. We can certainly go into greater detail about these orientations when we meet.

This is Souphaphone "Sandy"  Hagan's avatar and link to their profile

Souphaphone "Sandy" Hagan

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

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Dr. Lisa MacDonald's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Lisa MacDonald

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersParenting issuesAnger management
17 years of experience

Welcome! I am a Clinical Psychologist licensed in California with more than 17 years in practice. I have experience helping clients manage and overcome depression, anxiety, combat PTSD, anger, health concerns, sleeping disorders, & parenting issues. I also specialize in working with older adults to address the mental, emotional, and health changes that aging brings. A growing part of my practice is helping amateur athletes and other high achievers perform at optimal levels and manage performance pressures. As a mom of four, incuding a set of twins, I enjoy working with parents on the joys (and challenges!) of parenting to enjoy a home life with less conflict and more connection. I primarily provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which focuses on understanding current challenges and developing new skills and ways of thinking. It is an active form of therapy where I view myself as a coach/mentor who collaboratively establishes goals and helps clients build the skills and thought patterns they need to achieve those goals. 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 look forward to supporting you on your journey.

This is Antonia Allison's avatar and link to their profile

Antonia Allison

Offering therapy in CA
Anger management
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience as a clinician. I have a system for clients wanting to stop being so easily angered. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Daniela Rendon's avatar and link to their profile

Daniela Rendon

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

My name is Daniela Rendon and I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I believe therapy is a collaborative process between the client and myself. I work with my clients to create a safe and non-judgmental space for them to be able to share and process their thoughts and feelings. I use a strength based and person-centered approach however personalize therapy for each client. I use a variety of modalities, such as CBT and DBT to help those struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life transitions or motivation. Seeking support can be difficult. Whether you are new to therapy or not, I am happy to answer any questions about what happens in therapy and more. I am here to help guide you and give you the skills you need when you are ready.

This is Hugo Sanchez's avatar and link to their profile

Hugo Sanchez

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & depression. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I have a n eclectic approach where I have used CBT, Narrative, Strength base and Emotional Focus when working with others. 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.

This is Dr. Stephanie McVea's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Stephanie McVea

Offering therapy in CA
License: LPC,PhD
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
19 years of experience

I was born in Dallas and I have lived in several urban cities including: New Orleans, LA; Washington, D.C.; Jersey City, NJ; and New York City. I received my Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Howard University. I am particularly sensitive to the challenges of children and adults with mental health and challenges, including domestic/family violence and child abuse. I have over 15-years experience as a therapist. Contemplating counseling for the first time can be a scary decision. Many people have no idea what to expect. The counseling process requires developing a trustworthy relationship between the therapist and the client; and it is the therapist’s responsibility to develop and cultivate that relationship. As a therapist, it is my responsibility to unconditionally accept you as you are, which includes not being judgmental. Thus, creating a safe and nurturing counseling relationship. As human beings, our experiences are unique to us. We experience and view the world from our lens, which impacts how we perceive ourselves and others. Unfortunately, because we are all unique, people around us also develop perceptions about us which may not be an accurate representation of who we are or our true intentions. Sometimes, our perceptions lead to miscommunication and misconceptions; thereby impacting our ability to connect and develop healthy relationships. Typically, perceptions are based on our experiences and our experiences are not always favorable or pleasant. Occasionally, our experiences are traumatic and abusive. For some, trauma and abuse occur so regularly that it becomes the norm and ultimately impacts social, interpersonal, and intimate relationships. Counseling is the process of becoming awakened to our true selves to better understand how our personal experiences influence who we are. Our personal experiences are impacted by our family of origin, racial and cultural/ethnic group, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, etc. Because many aspects of one’s life may be explored, including childhood experiences, the process of counseling may feel uncomfortable and intrusive, at times. However, it is important to trust the process and know that every counseling session will not feel good. There are times that as a client, you may feel sad or hurt and become tearful; you may be excited and feel happy; you may be confused and feel hopeless. However, know that in the end, if you trust the process, you will hopefully learn something new about yourself that you never considered. Thus, leading to fulfillment in your life in areas including your relationships and family dynamics that ultimately, enhance your self-worth.

This is Rebecca Jarrell's avatar and link to their profile

Rebecca Jarrell

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
22 years of experience

Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas and a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LPCC) in California and New Mexico with 22 years experience in a variety of settings, including: psychiatrist office, inpatient psychiatric hospital and private practice. I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Master of Arts degree in Counseling from Sam Houston State University. My areas of specialized focus include grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and trauma recovery. I am a Certified Grief Educator and strive to provide compassionate support to those struggling through grief and loss. I primarily utilize the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach. It takes strength and insight to realize that a change is needed in our lives. I applaud you for taking this step. I look forward to working with you! My ultimate goal is to assist my clients in finding healthy ways to improve the quality of their lives. It is my belief that most people already have the answers they are seeking within themselves and that I am here to facilitate their path to finding these answers. I believe that each client is a unique individual and strive to make them feel safe and comfortable from the start of counseling.

How to find counseling in Hillsborough

Finding the best therapist close by in Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough. 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 Hillsborough, 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 Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough, elsewhere in San Mateo, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough, 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 Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough 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 94010 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 Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough, 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.

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

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

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

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

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

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

94010

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist