Working with a therapist can help you learn to overcome life challenges and feel comfortable in your own skin. If you’re looking for therapy in Merced, consider online treatment. While there are a variety of independent practices providing mental health services in the area, barriers to treatment can make it challenging to find in-person care. With an online platform like BetterHelp, you can work with a therapist from the comfort of your home at a time that works for you. 

BetterHelp therapists have a variety of experience. You can work with a psychologist or with someone who has a background in social work or addiction counseling, and you can change providers at any time until you find one you enjoy working with. BetterHelp providers work to create a warm, supportive environment and provide you with the resources you need to focus on achieving your goals.

A therapist can help you find your passion or learn to use your natural ability for personal growth. If you’re looking for an online therapist, Merced, CA, has many options available. Contact a therapist on the list below to learn more about online therapy and how to overcome the unique difficulties in your life.

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Psychologist Maria Biasiotto providing different types of therapy in Merced

Maria Biasiotto

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 49116
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
30 years offering treatment

My therapy style is warm, interactive, action orientated and focused. I have experience working with adults, both in Individual and Group Therapy for many years. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Spiritual/Religious, as well as cultural sensitivity is included in my approach. My approach combines humanistic, cognitive-behavioral/CBT, and brief solution focused therapy. I am here to meet your unique and specific needs. Clients that I have interacted with have included those with issues involving Self Esteem, Complex Trauma, MST, PTSD, CPTSD, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Substance Abuse, Sexual Trauma, and Domestic Violence and Behavioral issues. These clients over all have reported reduction in unwanted symptoms and improvement in quality of life. A quote I share here was from a client I had been seeing for about a year: "I did not think this could help and one day I realized that it really was helping and I never believed it could." "The Longest journey BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP." My Masters is in psychology and I hold a License as a Family Therapist, LMFT. I have a RN and I am Certified in Behavioral Health by the ANCC, RN-BC. Please feel free to ask any questions about my experience, that may be of a help for you.

Psychologist Mazda Lakpour providing different types of therapy in Merced

Mazda Lakpour

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 90471
Mental Wellness Specialties: Coping with life changes
14 years offering treatment

Hello, My name is Mazda Lakpour. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. My goal is to help people have better relationships, get their feet on the ground and see life as is. My specialty areas are mood and anxiety, anger and stress management, co-occurring disorders, adjustment issues, personal growth and self-esteem. I am experienced with adults, teenagers, couples and families. I utilize an integrative approach of Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral and hypnotherapy interventions. I combine elements of psychology, hypnosis, meditation, and imagery with a pledge to always maintain the highest level of integrity, confidentiality, and wisdom. I do this work because I believe that the world becomes a better place when we assist each other towards our individual goals of greater happiness.

Psychologist Lourdes Mayes providing different types of therapy in Merced

Lourdes Mayes

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 76284
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefAnger managementDepression
21 years offering treatment

Hi, I am a bilingual English/ Spanish licensed clinical social worker in California with over 21 years of experience in the mental health field. I have the honor of working with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, PTSD, anger and stress management, parenting issues, and couple relationship challenges. I strive to create a safe, non-judgemental and comfortable environment so we can work together to gain insight into the various contributions to your feelings and problems. We will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your problems, improve communication skills, build empathy & respect, learn effective problem-solving & conflict resolution skills, and strengthen connection, including intimacy. Very soon you will discover yourself and about the changes you can make to propel yourself forward. As long as you are open to sharing as well as accepting what is shared with you, this process of exploring can be highly rewarding, and it will also set up for success down the road. I’m looking forward to working with you!

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

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 Mark Daniels providing different types of therapy in Merced

Mark Daniels

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 9713
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
43 years offering treatment

Hello, my name is Mark A. Daniels, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have over 45 years of direct clinical experience in the public and private sector. I have worked with consumers with a wide range of challenges and concerns that include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, career issues, and anger management. I also have expertise working with culturally diverse consumers, and consumers who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. I have also worked extensively with consumers within the forensic psychiatric arena including state prisons, county jails, and state hospitals. My therapeutic interventions are supportive, interactive, validating, and nonjudgmental. I embrace treating everyone with respect, compassion and with unconditional positive regard. My approach combines cognitive behavioral interventions, humanistic, mindfulness, and psychosocial interventions. I will tailor our dialogue, and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Everyone has value and are important in life's journey, sometimes we need to share each other's strength to make it from Monday to Tuesday. Congratulations on your decision to seek empowerment and to enhance your current emotional being. I appreciate your courage and look forward to assisting you on this journey. Together we will work to access your inner strength, wisdom and talent to help you become stronger and better than ever before. You don't have to do this alone. Sincerely, Mark A. Daniels, LCSW

Psychologist Trishka Lampkin providing different types of therapy in Merced

Trishka Lampkin

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 129849
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
16 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring over 16 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on creating a compassionate, affirming space for healing across diverse experiences—from addressing anxiety and depression to navigating relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and personal growth. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique journey. I specialize in supporting individuals through transitions, identity exploration, and emotional wellness. Whether you're confronting workplace stress, relationship challenges, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I offer culturally responsive guidance tailored to your specific needs. I'm particularly passionate about working with communities often marginalized in mental health spaces, including LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, and those experiencing intersectional challenges. My therapeutic style emphasizes collaboration, empowerment, and respect for your individual strengths and experiences. Through evidence-based practices, I help clients develop meaningful coping strategies, rebuild self-esteem, and create sustainable paths toward emotional resilience. My goal is to support you in discovering your inherent capacity for growth, healing, and transformation.

Psychologist Rosa Ogas providing different types of therapy in Merced

Rosa Ogas

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 88878
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
17 years offering treatment

I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in a variety of social work settings. I am experienced and trained to work within multicultural communities, facilitating problem resolution, providing behavioral intervention services, and working with all age groups. I am bicultural and speak fluent Spanish. I have experience and understanding of issues related to acculturation, acculturation guilt, and family systems issues. I have experience providing therapy using cognitive behavioral therapy, client centered therapy and trauma focused therapy dialectical behavioral therapy as well as mindfulness therapy and interventions to support clients. I have supported clients with a variety of issues related to anxiety, depression, self-injurious behaviors, post traumatic stress disorder, parenting and impulse control issues. I provide a strength based approach to therapy and am able to support clients to build and develop tools to help them better cope with the issues that bring them to therapy.

Psychologist Eileen Maxwel providing different types of therapy in Merced

Eileen Maxwel

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 50173
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Karen Hanson-Meganck providing different types of therapy in Merced

Karen Hanson-Meganck

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 50007, WA LMFT LF00002640
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
35 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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 Dr. Cheryl Mims providing different types of therapy in Merced

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 Michael Demoratz providing different types of therapy in Merced

Michael Demoratz

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 13283
Mental Wellness Specialties: GriefDepression
40 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients coping with grief, loss, depression, & compassion fatigue. I am considered and recognized as a subject matter expert in end-of-life care and have published extensively. I have a series of free videos available on YouTu.be @Dying101 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 Pauline Padrul providing different types of therapy in Merced

Pauline Padrul

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 25630
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California with over twenty years of professional work experience in behavioral health treatment. I also have a Master's degree in Public Health with a strong interest in behavioral epidemiology. I have worked with clients who typically present with stress and anxiety, eating disorders, motivation, self esteem issues & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths with which to overcome challenges and build resilience.

Psychologist Erica Nolasco providing different types of therapy in Merced

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 Sherri Kardell providing different types of therapy in Merced

Sherri Kardell

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 113970
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
7 years offering treatment

Dear potential client (s) My name is Sherri and I am a licensed marriage family therapist and life coach in California. I offer psychotherapy and life coaching to individuals grappling with some of life's more challenging transitions. Whether you are experiencing grief from the loss of a significant loved one, the end of the a significant relationship, or have a broken heart, I am here to be a calm presence during turbulent times. Perhaps you are experiencing a cycle of stops and starts, but have been unable to access a sense of inner calm. Or you have experienced repetitive patterns of loneliness, an inability to decipher your life's purpose, or you struggle to form and/or maintain intimate partnerships. I work with individuals in order to improve self confidence and live more authentic lives, resolve relationship conflicts, and process early relational wounding and trauma in order to resolve faulty belief systems and address unconscious patterns. I work primarily from an attachment based understanding of human development that seeks to reclaim aspects of the self that were left by the wayside in order to adapt to early conditioning, often related to cultural norms, rigid gender conditioning, and outdated social expectations. I offer a depth of tools designed to help you reconnect with your core sense of self, and heal early relational wounding that have shaped your belief systems and sense of worthiness in the world. In addition to 6 + years of clinical experience, I have earned the highest level of education in my field. Additionally, I have committed myself to a decade if spiritual practice, which has given me the ability to see through entrenched defense systems and patterns, and has helped me to develop a deep sense of empathy and attunement to the unconscious whispers of the soul. I offer a highbred approach to psychotherapy that often includes life-coaching. I conceptualize my role as akin to the Irish concept of "soul friend" a Celtic concept that emphasizes the importance of having someone that acts as a confidant that connects and understands you at the deepest level. Thus, I believe in treating others with respect, sensitively and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific goals. I understand, from my own experience, that taking the first step towards a more fulfilling life often takes courage and I am here to support you in that process.

Find a Therapist Near You in Merced , 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 Merced.

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 Merced 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.
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