Mental health services can specifically treat individuals who are recovering from childhood trauma, are experiencing mental illnesses like eating disorders, or are struggling with family crisis. But therapy isn’t limited to treatment. Most of us can benefit from therapy at some point in our lives, whether for stress management support, strengthening relationships, or pursuing self-awareness. 

When it comes to finding a therapist, Lakewood, CA may offer a wider variety than many surrounding rural or suburban areas, but finding the right therapist can be more complicated than reaching out to local mental health clinics. Like traditional medicine, psychology has a great deal of specialization, and different therapeutic approaches can be more or less effective depending on what challenge is being addressed. A licensed marriage/family therapist may be best for family conflict, but not really right for managing depression. Recovery treatment centers can be ideal for addiction, but aren’t designed for supporting people experiencing OCD. What you need may not necessarily be available in your area. 

This is where online therapy can help. BetterHelp offers appointments with online-based mental health professionals in the Lakewood area with expertise in a wide range of therapies, and with experience working with diverse populations. Whether you are looking for a licensed psychologist, a marriage/family therapist, or a social worker, you can find what you need. Fill out an online questionnaire and BetterHelp will match you with the provider that best meets your needs. And because clients succeed best with a strong therapeutic rapport, if you need to change therapists you can do so at no additional cost. 

Online therapy can be a convenient option as well. Online sessions fit easily into any schedule, and with video chat, phone, and text messaging you can meet with your therapist from the comfort of your own home. If you have been thinking about therapy for any reason, whether to address mental health challenges, or to start a mindfulness focus in your life, check out the Lakewood-based online therapists listed below to find out more. 

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Psychologist Dr. Thomas Browne PhD providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Dr. Thomas Browne PhD

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist 24087
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepressionCoaching
25 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience in areas of mental health and well being. I have experience in helping a wide range of clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & depression, including addiction. 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, healthier, and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Dr. James Decker providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Dr. James Decker

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 9715
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
45 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 45 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 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Diana Bernhardy providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Diana Bernhardy

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

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

Psychologist Denise Gutirrez-Miller providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Denise Gutirrez-Miller

Clinician
License Type(s): OK LCSW 22223, CA LCSW LCSW87095
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California and Oklahoma with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem and confidence, & depression. 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. I have worked with many populations, from developmentally disabled to SED teens to adults. I enjoy meeting people and seek to make others' lives better. I would love to work with you and help you become the best version of yourself. I am a born-again Christian and available for those needing to understand themselves according to Scripture. My availability is 10am to 4pm Central Time.

Psychologist Dr. Cheryl Mims providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Dr. Cheryl Mims

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 21288
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefBipolar disorderDepression
40 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression. 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.

Psychologist Christina Handal providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Christina Handal

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 97537
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
9 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I am excited about the opportunity to continue my work with individuals, couples, families and children. I approach my work with respect, cultural awareness and a strong belief in self-empowerment. Our time together will be supportive, collaborative, focused and goal driven. Although I am continually learning and searching for what works, Reality Therapy/Choice Theory is my primary theoretical approach. I believe my purpose is to help clients discover, clarify and maximize their potential for healing/growth. I am a strong believer in the healing power of good relationships, so my work is framed by the intent to help folks get along better with the important people in their lives.

Psychologist Saloumeh Del Vecchio providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Saloumeh Del Vecchio

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 144478, NV LMFT 4745-R
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years offering treatment

My name is SALLY DEL VECCHIO I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, in the state of CA and NV. I have a Bachelor of science in Psychology and a Master of science in Counseling/Marriage, Family, And Child Therapy. I have worked with many different individuals, families, couples, and children. I have experience working with clients who have depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, social anxiety, couple’s issues, and family of origin issues. I believe that together in a therapeutic setting, you can learn to embrace and explore many different parts of your life that can be uncomfortable or cause distress. By leaning into these often uncomfortable areas, you also open yourself up to new solutions, new ideas, and a fuller more alive experience. It would be a pleasure to join you on your journey of improving your life, relationships, and overall well-being. I use a gentle, strength-based, collaborative approach to help you build insight, and self-awareness and find meaning and solutions to your life’s journey. My goal is to help you create your fullest life; however, you choose to define it.

Psychologist Alexandra "Lexy" Spett providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Alexandra "Lexy" Spett

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 37465
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
24 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with 24 years of experience in California, I specialize in supporting late adolescents (16-19), young adults (20–30), and their parents through life’s transitions and challenges with clarity and confidence. Please note: I do work with adults (35-64) on a case by case basis. Becoming an adult is not easy. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, or issues with motivation, self-esteem, or confidence, I’m here to help. With parents of emerging adults, I offer compassionate guidance to navigate relational shifts while fostering a stronger, more meaningful connection with your young adult. My style is warm, direct, honest, and rooted in compassion. I believe in creating a safe, respectful space where we can collaborate to build a treatment plan tailored specifically to you. Your journey is unique, and I’m committed to meeting you exactly where you are. Taking the first step toward change can feel overwhelming, but it’s also an act of courage and self-care. Together, we’ll work to identify your strengths, build your confidence, and help you create the life you want. I'm ready to take this journey with you!

Psychologist Susan Faix providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Susan Faix

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 45579
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesCompassion fatigue
26 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Ryan Jordan providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Ryan Jordan

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 17537
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
4 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Erica Nolasco providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Erica Nolasco

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 107651
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
7 years offering treatment

My name is Erica Nolasco, I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. My passion is helping indivduals overcome trauma, divorce, depression, anxiety, self-doubt and addiction. I welcome individuals and families to a safe nonjudgmental space with the goal of providing each client long lasting healing, personal growth and happiness. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Cristina Dawes providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Cristina Dawes

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 45948
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoaching
25 years offering treatment

Hello and thanks for reaching out! I have been practicing in California with 25 years of work experience, of which 17 have been licensed. I specifically trained and have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, depression, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. 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!

Psychologist Sophia Dyer providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Sophia Dyer

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

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Pamela Henkel providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Pamela Henkel

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 80319
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring over 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My professional journey is rooted in creating affirming, compassionate spaces where clients can explore their authentic selves and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. I specialize in working with couples, offering a deeply understanding and supportive approach that honors each person's unique identity and lived experience. My therapeutic practice is grounded in respect, empathy, and a commitment to helping individuals navigate their emotional landscapes with strength and resilience. My approach centers on collaborative, person-centered care that recognizes your inherent wisdom and capacity for healing. I draw from evidence-based practices to support you in developing insights, building emotional skills, and moving toward the life you envision for yourself. Together, we'll work to create meaningful, sustainable pathways toward personal well-being and self-discovery.

Find a Therapist Near You in Lakewood , California

Finding a licensed therapist near you in California can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in California, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in California (CA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across California, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across California with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

When searching for a therapist near me in California, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across California, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across California.

Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in California want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in California without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in California (CA)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in California

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across California, including residents in Lakewood.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in California do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Lakewood can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
Find the right therapist for your needs
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