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.
Greta Brooks
With over two decades of experience in the counseling field, I am a seasoned and devoted professional currently serving at Better Help. My diverse and comprehensive background includes roles such as a Special Education Teacher, Psychology Instructor, Executive Director, Lead Therapist at an outpatient drug treatment facility, Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor managing a Transition Caseload, and a Disability Services Counselor, where I provided assistance with ADA Accommodations for students with impairments. My academic pursuit in the psychology and counseling sphere began with earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Tuskegee University. I then advanced to Troy University where I obtained a Master of Science degree in Counseling & Human Development. Further deepening my expertise, I completed a Master of Education in Rehabilitation Counseling from Auburn University. As a testament to my dedication and competence, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the states of Texas, Colorado, California and Arizona, along with being a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) recognized across all 50 states. My counseling practice extends to a wide range of specialty areas such as ADD/ADHD, Anxiety and Panic disorders, Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorders, Bullying, Cultural and Ethical Issues, Depression, End of Life discussions, Isolation and Loneliness, Personality Disorders, Pregnancy and Childbirth, Prejudice and Discrimination, Self-Harm, counseling for survivors of Rape and Violent Crime, Trauma, and Workplace challenges. Over the years, I have honed my skills in several clinical approaches to therapy, including Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy. My philosophy centers around meeting clients where they are in their journey. If you are serious, committed, and prepared to enact change, I extend my utmost readiness to walk this path alongside you. Together, let's embark on this transformative journey.
Richard Berg
I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe 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.
Robin Monk
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
Andrea Plate
I am licensed in California, with 20 years of professional work experience. For nearly 15 years I ran a residential substance abuse treatment program within the West Los Angeles Department of Veterans Affairs, serving those suffering from homelessness and chronic mental illness. Now working with individuals in the population at large, I do my best to help clients cope with: anxiety, personal and professional setbacks, addiction, major life changes, relationship conflicts and career concerns. I also refine and enhance my practice through teaching social welfare and addiction at a major West Los Angeles university. 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.
Jessica Funk
I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.
Matthew Poje
Welcome! My name is Matt Poje, LPCC. I specialize in the healing of emotional trauma, using the Instinctual Trauma Response method (ITR). I have 15 years working with Veterans via Department of Defense contracts, and over 23 yrs of professional work experience. I am licensed in CA and WI. The ITR method uses over 100 years of neuroscience to help heal the brain. Since ITR uses neuroscience, you will learn the steps of the ITR method that will help you to become more resilient. ITR is not talk therapy in the classical sense. ITR is a focused, purposeful method of trauma healing and proven to work. If you are ready to work on a proven method of reducing symptoms of trauma, I look forward to work with you. I do not perform diagnostic tests. I use screening tools, and therefore will not provide any letters to employers or court systems. Before scheduling a session, watch the ITR video: https://vimeo.com/752151441
Cynthia "Cindi" Christiansen
I am licensed in California with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Tiffany Whittington
I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & 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.
Erica Nolasco
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.
Wendy Glass Givens
As a licensed therapist in California, I bring over seven years of compassionate counseling experience to supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My approach is rooted in understanding and addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, family dynamics, grief, and self-esteem issues. Drawing from a Christian-informed perspective, I create a supportive therapeutic environment that honors each client's unique spiritual and emotional journey. I believe in providing empathetic, personalized care that helps individuals develop resilience, insight, and meaningful strategies for personal growth. My goal is to walk alongside you with genuine understanding, offering professional guidance that respects your individual experiences and supports your path toward healing and emotional well-being. Together, we can explore your strengths, navigate challenges, and cultivate hope and transformation.
William Money
I am licensed in California with 8 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 despression. 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.
Susan Richey
I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in in California with over 10 years of experience working in clinical practice. I work with clients who experience a wide range of symptoms and concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, adult child issues, their own mature adult challenges, and retirement. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life as an older adult and to take the steps needed for still more changes in our lives. If you are ready to take those steps, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Suzanne Shumaker
As a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients develop self-compassion, explore life purpose, and heal from challenging experiences. I have training in addressing addiction recovery, self-esteem issues, grief and bereavement, depression, anxiety, and stress management. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering individuals to overcome guilt and shame, cultivate self-love, and develop resilient coping strategies during significant life transitions. I create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their inner world, process posttraumatic experiences, and rediscover personal strength. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I collaborate with clients to develop personalized healing strategies that honor their unique journey. My commitment is to support you in building meaningful connections with yourself and creating sustainable pathways toward emotional wellness and personal growth.
Catherine Haralson
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in California, and have lived here more than anyplace else in my life. I have worked in mental health field over 20 years, (then I stopped counting!) I work with adults over 18 years of age up to what ever age you have achieved. I try not to pay attention to that "older person nonsense!" How would you be if you didn't know the day you were born? I work with clients with trauma, such as with veterans, or those with past child abuse, or those who have been in traumatic car accidents, and so on; grief and loss, depression, OCD, anxiety, couples' issues-(one of you, or the both of ya) PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), bipolar disorder, and SMI (seriously mentally ill). Among other things, just write it down and send it to me, and we'll see what we can do. I specialize in CBT-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Supportive Therapy, CPT-Cognitive Processing Therapy; Couples' work; Reflective Listening; Prolonged Exposure Therapy; DBT; Mindfulness; Motivational Interviewing, and Relaxation skills. My best strength is my compassion for helping you achieve your goals, and get where you want to in your life. I find therapy to be an interactive and collaborative effort--we are in this together.
Find a Therapist Near You in Malibu , 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:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
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:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in California (CA)
- 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 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 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.