Surfers as well as residents love Malibu’s beaches, or “the Bu” as surfers call it. The beaches offer the perfect place to surf or play in the ocean. It is very easy to swim out and catch a tall wave to ride wild and free. Sometimes life throws big waves at us, and we can seem on the verge of a wipeout. When that wave is looming and there seems no way to ride it out, that’s when you need to ask for help.

Counselors in the Malibu area are able to do just that. These therapists can guide you past the big waves and help you find your way safely back to shore. If you are in need of someone to talk to, contact a counselor today.

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Psychologist Dr. Frederick  Smoot providing different types of therapy in Malibu

Dr. Frederick Smoot

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 12959
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years offering treatment

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (CA #12959) with over 15 years of experience counseling/ accompanying persons through difficult parts of their life-journeys. I have worked with a wide range of concerns including Isolation. loneliness, fearfulness, anxiety, intimacy/relationship issues, parenting and career challenges, addiction, physical and emotional abuse and life transitions. My counseling style is warm, curious and appropriately truth-telling.. I treat others with respect and consistent presence. I work to sustain and shame-free context that empowers persons to (re)claim their lies and future with dignity. I am an accompanist, using therapeutic tools gathered from several clinical approaches. I am relational, client centered, mindful, and strategic. I believe that direction and goals for therapy are shaped together with the client. We will tailor a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Your willingness to reach out for support shows your courage and desire for a better future. I encourage you to take this step, accompanied and supported I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Merry Walensa providing different types of therapy in Malibu

Merry Walensa

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 322
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
17 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients cope with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career planning and/or difficulties on the job. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I do integrative work including spirituality, related to the psychological-philosophical work often referred to as existential theory, that is inclusive. I create for ALL my clients a space that is 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 making change. I am here to support & empower you on this journey. Please note: that ALL new clients need to sign up for a VIDEO appointment FIRST before a phone or chat may be used.For new comers. I also highly recommend keeping your appointments and cancelling by giving advanced notices when ever possible. I appreciate that COURTEOUS. Thank you.

Psychologist Robin Monk providing different types of therapy in Malibu

Robin Monk

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 17209, FL LMHC MH10103
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
16 years offering treatment

Welcome to BetterHelp! I’ve been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of FL since 2009. I provided individual therapy to a diverse population in a community behavioral health center until I resigned and became a counselor with BetterHelp. In 2024, I also became licensed in CA as Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I previously worked for 5 years as an in-home parent educator for the University of Florida's Nurturing Program. My therapy specialties are : Stress/Anxiety, Coping With Life Changes, Coping with Grief/Loss, Improving Self Esteem I have a passion for helping others and believe in treating everyone with compassion and respect regardless of race, religion, gender or sexual orientation. I find it rewarding to work with people one on one. I especially like helping people discover strengths they didn't realize they had. People tend to seek counseling when they feel down, worried, frustrated, or upset. Many feel stuck, even hopeless, because what they have been doing hasn't improved the situation. Counseling can often help. Talking about your problems can give you a fresh perspective and help you find solutions. My clients say it's comforting to have someone to talk to that makes them feel safe and heard. They say counseling gives them hope that they can lead more satisfying lives. I prefer strength based client centered approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Brief Solution–Focused Therapy. My counseling style is eclectic, so I draw from other approaches too if I think it can help someone. If you're ready to make changes in your life and want more support in moving forward, please call I’d love to work with you. Services Offered Messaging Live Chat Phone Video

Psychologist Noelle Sladon providing different types of therapy in Malibu

Noelle Sladon

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 36197
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
35 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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. 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 Diana Bernhardy providing different types of therapy in Malibu

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 Stacy Brown providing different types of therapy in Malibu

Stacy Brown

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC LPCC20476, TX LPC 69278
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsEating disordersAnger managementADHD
16 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Texas with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, eating disorders, & 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. 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 Yu Tsun Tseng-Brown providing different types of therapy in Malibu

Yu Tsun Tseng-Brown

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 53180
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
26 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring over two decades of dedicated experience supporting individuals, couple, family through complex emotional landscapes. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the nuanced challenges of depression, anxiety, marital problems, trauma, grief, and anger management. I am certified in child abuse and home violence, parenting educator, play therapy, seek safety (intervention for substance abuse and trauma), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, managing and adapting program (treatment of depression, trauma, anxiety, and disruptive behavior) and CORES (crisis intervention). I specialize in creating compassionate, culturally-responsive therapeutic spaces that honor each client's unique journey. Drawing from extensive clinical expertise, I help individuals develop resilient coping strategies and meaningful pathways toward emotional healing and personal growth. My professional commitment is centered on providing empathetic, evidence-based support that respects your individual experiences and strengths. I believe in collaborative healing, where you are the expert of your own story, and I serve as a supportive guide in your transformative process.

Psychologist Cecil Edwards providing different types of therapy in Malibu

Cecil Edwards

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 71160, MA LICSW 121314
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementCareer difficulties
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in three states, to include California, as a clinical social worker, having started in this career field in 2011. In addition, I retired as a military Chaplain after 36 years serving both as a weekend warrior and on full-time deployments. My areas of expertise include Christian counseling, and helping clients work through stress and anxiety, anger management, career difficulties and relationship issues within and outside the Family. Allowing me to accompany you on your courageous journey toward a more fulfilling and happier life will be an honor and a privilege. Let's get started.

Psychologist Ashby "Brooks" Larsen providing different types of therapy in Malibu

Ashby "Brooks" Larsen

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 12724, UT LCSW 11035932-3501
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
58 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California and Utah with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Dr. Stacy Johnston providing different types of therapy in Malibu

Dr. Stacy Johnston

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist 17457
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
32 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. NOTE-I do provide asynchronous text messaging only and prefer it for the following reasons: very flexible with no scheduling necessary, can refer back to our conversation at any time day or night and get a response anywhere from within a few hours to no later than 12 hours typically, with multiple exchanges in one day/evening when not busy, allows both parties to be on their own time schedule at their convenience, and for some it is easier to express thoughts and feelings in writing versus verbally or when on camera. I have worked this way for over a year and have had success with many clients who work well with this format. It is not for everyone, but for some, it does work really well and provides more contact than a weekly live session does. I hope to work with you soon!

Psychologist Earl Barrios providing different types of therapy in Malibu

Earl Barrios

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 229
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
38 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 36 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.

Psychologist Dr. Malcolm Stanislaus providing different types of therapy in Malibu

Dr. Malcolm Stanislaus

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 46059
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuseDepressionCoaching
40 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with shame-based issues, trauma and abuse, depression, spiritual bypass, & executive and 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 Esteban Avila providing different types of therapy in Malibu

Esteban Avila

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 59623
Mental Wellness Specialties: LGBTRelationship issuesGrief
13 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California and have 13 years of professional experience. I have experience helping clients with LGBTQ+ issues, relationship issues, and coping with grief. I also have experience working with people who have overcome loss. I believe you are the expert on your own story and possess many strengths that will help you overcome challenges. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and happy life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Javier Gonzalez providing different types of therapy in Malibu

Javier Gonzalez

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 101922
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

I am a Hispanic Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California, originally from Mexico, and I am deeply committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of the Latino/Hispanic community. My therapeutic work is grounded in cultural understanding, respect, and lived experience. I specialize in helping individuals navigate relationship challenges, cope with stress and anxiety, and overcome struggles with addiction. Growing up in poverty and surrounded by the very real risks of gang involvement and community violence, I understand firsthand the complex pressures many in our community face. Through resilience, support, and education, I was able to forge a different path—becoming a U.S. citizen, completing my college education, and earning my master’s degree in social work. These experiences shape the way I practice therapy today: with authenticity, empathy, and a deep belief in each person’s capacity for healing and change. For many years, I have worked closely with Latino/Hispanic individuals and families, providing therapy from a culturally attuned perspective that honors our shared values, challenges, and strengths. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming space where clients feel understood—where they can explore their experiences openly and build healthier relationships with themselves, their partners, and their families. I bring real-world insight, professional training, and cultural connection to every session. Whether you’re struggling with addiction, stress, relationship conflict, or simply feeling stuck, I’m here to help you move forward with compassion and clarity.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Malibu, California

Finding a therapist near you in Malibu, California starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you. 

The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In California, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.

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 can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.

Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In California, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.

Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in California

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. 

You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.

Therapists near you in California

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

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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

Is online therapy effective?

Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.

How quickly can I start therapy?

You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.

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 discreet?

Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.

Find a Therapist in Malibu, California

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Malibu and the surrounding CA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

Find the right therapist for your needs
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