When looking for a therapist, Modesto, CA can offer more options than some other small cities and rural areas, but finding the right therapist can be more complicated than simply looking in your area. There are a number of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, each more or less effective with specific mental health disorders. Building healthy relationship dynamics and treating mood disorders are two different issues which may require two entirely different types of practice. What you need in terms of therapy may not necessarily be available nearby. 

With online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp, there are over 30,000 mental healthcare professionals, from marriage/family therapists to social workers to associate professional clinical counselors. These providers specialize in a variety of therapeutic approaches that can address family dynamics, parenting skills, stress management, coping strategies, and more. And because therapeutic alliance can be a key factor in client success, if for any reason you need to change therapists you can do so at no additional cost. 

Online therapy with BetterHelp can be a convenient option for many, as well. Sessions fit easily into any schedule, and with video chat, phone, and text messaging options you can talk to your therapist from the comfort of your own home or office. 

If you’ve been thinking about seeking therapy for any reason, for family counseling, to improve healthy communication in your relationships, or to manage stress, getting started can be easy with BetterHelp. A therapist can share coping strategies, healthy communication skills, and stress management techniques that can be life changing for many individuals.

 

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Heidi Summers

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

Hello! Thank you for considering the possibility of working together! My name is Heidi and I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for more than 20 years, having received my Master of Science degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology in 1998 from California State University, San Bernardino. I am licensed in California. I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and trained in trauma treatment. My professional experience includes individual and group therapy with adults whose issues include being survivors of childhood sexual abuse and victims of sexual assault and domestic violence as well as concerns of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, parenting, relationships, and life changes. My counseling style is empathetic and accepting. My goal is to create a safe and warm environment where clients feel respected and supported in a confidential setting. I use an eclectic approach to therapy using various therapeutic orientations. On a personal note, I'm married with four adult children and six grandchildren. I suffered the loss of my first husband to cancer at age 30 which left me a single parent with three very young, grieving children, while managing my own grief . I remarried several years later to a career US Marine which required relocating several times over the years. I had a fourth child, and with multiple extended deployments of my husband, I was often, in essence, a single parent again. I have found that my varied life experiences have enabled me a unique understanding of many of the issues my clients are facing. Thank you for taking the time to read about my experience. I hope that you will consider working with me!

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Peggy Lingard

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

When I moved to California to accept the job of my dreams I experienced a significant JOLT! Nearly everything in my life changed - I lost a lot of my support system, I lost some of my self, I lost my ability to tap into my strengths and positives in my life. Fortunately I was guided to an excellent therapist who encouraged me to invest in people and activities that brought joy. The most important lesson I learned was to talk less and DO more! I re-connected with nature and began painting - and I still love to paint after 18 years. What is your story? What do you fear? What strengths can you count on? I was fortunate to train with professionals who are at the top of our field. I've mastered Family Systems Theory, Problem-solving, Divorce Mediation, Solution Focus and Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Resilience and Mindfulness. If you would like to know more about evidence-based therapies I'm glad to share the research and my thoughts about what is effective. However, after many years sitting with people who are experiencing anxiety from change, confusion about growth, grief or loss I believe that the alliance between therapist and client is the number one factor for success and change. So, we can borrow or practice anything from these excellent therapies I listed - for example, using mindfulness or distress tolerance skills from Dialectical Behavior Therapy - but I will always honor our alliance and insure that you feel heard and that you are my partner in directing therapy. A bit more about me - I am a Lesbian. I have three grown children and a wife who is African American. I don't claim to have mastered all the diversity in my life. That is a life-long journey. I feel graced by these layers of respect, forgiveness, open-heartedness and curiosity in relationships. I would not change any discomfort for what I have shared. So, I am excited to work with anyone who is willing to increase transparency and to let go of what is not working. My experience may be an asset, but I assure you that the best I can offer is to see each of you with fresh eyes. You are the strongest ingredient in growing your life.

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Dr. Suzan McEnany

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Dr. Nancy Liu

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed psychologist in California with 15 years of experience providing therapy and psychological evaluations. I've worked in various settings, such as mental health clinics, hospitals, inpatient, and day treatment settings. I have experience helping clients with addictions, adjustment issues, attention/organization problems, body image, mood issues, including perinatal mood, low self-esteem, and stress and anxiety. My approach is eclectic by using elements of Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment, and mindfulness practices. My treatment is individualized and tailored to clients' presenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. In the initial phase of therapy, we set treatment goals and outline the purpose of therapy. During the treatment phase, we may explore your thoughts and feelings, learn and practice skills, role-play or work through challenging interpersonal themes, and engage in mindfulness practices. Typical sessions start with check-ins and agenda setting and reviewing worksheets, if applicable. I oftentimes share educational materials and assign worksheets and readings through the chat. Periodically, we will return to your treatment goal(s) to assess progress. I look forward to hearing from you.

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Monica Garnett

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCPC,LAADC,CADTP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

Hi I’m Monica, Are you feeling stuck, unsettled and ready to regain some normalcy in your life? Are you hoping to become the best version of yourself? Allow me to assist you in becoming more self-aware and regaining more control of your life. I am a licensed counselor for the state of Illinois and a certified substance abuse counselor for California. My experiences have allowed me to work with diverse clientele ranging from children and adolescents to adults with varying needs. My therapeutic style is collaborative and engaging and I assist you in learning to live an enriched and full life. I have fifteen years’ experience working with individuals who needed help with emotional regulation, developing coping strategies, struggling with alcohol, drug or behavioral addictions as well as with individuals or couples needing to enhance their communication skills. I also have several years of experience working with veterans. I offer phone and video sessions for clients who are distancing or quarantined. I have immediate openings for new clients. Allow me to assist you in taking the next step towards living a more fulfilled life!

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Herbert Wright

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jackie Boyd

Offering therapy in CA
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

You made it! Welcome. Now, it is my hope that you stay a while, and grow comfortable with knowing that you have just found a safe ally. It can be scary and exhausting to search endlessly for the right therapist. The process can almost feel like that colloquial expression of: “I’ll know it when I see it”. Except in this case, the thinking may be: “I’ll know it when I feel it”. It is my hope that after briefly tapping you into my world, you will feel comfortable and safe enough to begin tapping me into yours. I welcome all aspects of yourself, and I respect your timing in introducing me to each of those parts. My clinical thinking and practice is through a Trauma-Informed and Psychodynamic lens. This perspective affords me the tools to help you explore how past traumas and negative experiences may be influencing your present. Trauma is not a one-size-fits-all. We will take our time to identify what trauma looks and feels like for you. To encourage this process, my style is relational. When you enter my (virtual) office, you can expect to work with a warm, intentional, empathetic, and humorous clinician. I meet you where you are at. I respect your pace while utilizing my intuitive and direct nature to gently push our process through stagnant times. Through our curiosity and partnership, we will work to heal old wounds. We will work to nourish and replenish your mind, body, and spirit. We will work to get rid of those negative thoughts and feelings that no longer serve you. Let’s find out what the best version of yourself looks like. You deserve to see it, and you deserve to be it.

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Ross Zellner

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, Anxiety
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with OCD, stress and anxiety. 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.

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Joycelyn Stallworth

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Hello, My name is Joycelyn Stallworth I am a LMFT. I have a background working as a school based clinician, community based clinician, and private practice clinician. I am a solution focused/short term therapist. This means that I believe that you are the expert in your own life. Please feel free to email or call me for availability to get you scheduled as soon as possible.

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Sean Becker

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW, CCTP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

My name is Sean and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Oregon with 10 years of experience working as a clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist. I have worked with individuals experiencing a wide range of challenges that include depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, Bipolar mania, and addiction. I have helped people find what's important to them so they find a new sense of joy in their life. My counseling style is to start where you are right now. I approach every situation with curiosity and sense of respect, sensitivity, and compassion, with your journey. I don't believe are people have labels. We are all trying our best and sometimes need to make ourselves a little better. I like to identify peoples strengths and find ways for you to build that to overcome the challenges your are facing today or in the future. It is scary to start therapy, trust me I know I've done it a few times. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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How to find counseling in Modesto

Finding the best therapist close by in Modesto can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Modesto. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Modesto, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Modesto or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Modesto area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Modesto, elsewhere in Stanislaus, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Modesto therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Modesto due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Modesto may not take health insurance, some in the state of California may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Modesto, California working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Modesto above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Modesto helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Modesto therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Modesto therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Modesto therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in CA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 95354 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Modesto counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Modesto licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Modesto, California can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

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

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

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

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

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

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

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

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

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

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

95350, 95351, 95352, 95353, 95354, 95355, 95356, 95358, 95397

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