Do you feel like you are the last person to get anything? Or that life rewards everyone but you because you are always last on the list? These can be signs of a condition called depression. A counselor based in Monterey would be glad to help you understand why you are feeling this way. 

Being first is really important when it comes to most things and Monterey knows exactly what this means. The town was considered the first city in California as it was the first place in California that was annexed as a city in 1890. If you want to start feeling like you are the first and most important person in life, talk to one of the counselors in Monterey today about getting some help. 

This is Tina Phillips's avatar and link to their profile

Tina Phillips

Offering therapy in CA
License: BA, MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
31 years of experience

Welcome to learning a little bit more about me. I attended undergraduate school at UCLA in Communication Studies and graduate school at Pepperdine University in Malibu California. I have been licensed for over 30 years and love helping people through life's challenges. I know how difficult it can be and you give your self a gift to reach out and seek help. I have worked with many different problems including self esteem issues, anxiety, depression and loneliness. I have helped people through divorce and child custody issues. I have 10 years of expertise working with seniors, 10 years of expertise working with children and families and 10 years of expertise working with young adults with Autism. I have worked in a Psychiatric facility and worked with dual diagnosis clients. I have a lot of experience with addiction. I believe we can find solutions. Thank you for taking time to take care of yourself, it's important.

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Christina Weyer

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
12 years of experience

Hello! My name is Christina Weyer, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have 10 years of experience working with a variety of clients (individuals, families, and groups) in a community mental health clinic in the Southern California area. I have had the opportunity to help clients of all ages in working through trauma, depression and anxiety by utilizing evidence-based practices of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Seeking Safety, and Motivational Interviewing, as well as traditional therapy interventions. I attained my Bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Channel Islands in 2007, and went on to complete my Master's degree in Psychology at Phillips Graduate Institute in 2009. I understand that asking for help can be overwhelming, and my therapeutic style is eclectic to match the diverse needs of my clients. I use modalities of client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and strength-based therapy in order to help my clients reach their greatest potential. I don't focus on labels, but rather want to know you as an individual, and strive to understand where you are at in your life, and what experiences you have had that contribute to who you are. My hope is to be able to assist and support you with working through whatever emotional and relational challenges you are having in your life, so you can feel your best! I look forward to working with you!

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Kristie Preston

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Family conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. My early experience was working with children, adolescents and families. Recently, I have been working with clinical leaders providing clinical consultation, mentoring, professional development and coaching. I have worked with clients on a range of challenges from self-esteem, family dynamics, life changes, professional development and more. My therapeutic approach is a combination of person-centered and solution-focused with motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral interventions as well. I believe everyone has the strength to work through the challenges they may face and my goal is to help you find that those strategies. I work with each person to find the approach that works best for them as everyone has unique needs. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and help you reach your goals.

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Kasey Wallace

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepressionADHD
7 years of experience

Hello, my name is Kasey Wallace, and I am an experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California! I have provided services to children, teens, young adults, individuals and families struggling with a variety of issues. I have worked with people challenged by depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, grief/loss, communication issues, life transitions, career concerns, poor self-esteem, and life changing situations. My approach is warm, strength based, and client centered. Together we will practice identifying and challenging unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to negative feelings, improve communication skills, process difficult experiences such as grief and loss and trauma, and improve feelings of low self-worth. I draw on multiple treatment modalities to guide clients in identifying strengths and developing treatment plans that accomplish their goals. I am here to support you and will even utilize humor when needed! Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy traveling, playing sports, cooking, arts, reading, and support all Bay Area sports teams. I am here to support you and look forward to working together.

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Janeen Fabulae

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

I am a family marriage therapist with over 20 years of Hospice experience in Northern California. I have worked with many families and individuals regarding grief , loss and bereavement.Loss is not just the loss of someone there are many different types of loss , divorce , job , relationship , animal and children going off to school , my experience has lead me to be able to work with clients and the many types of loss . I am a client centered therapist and use a combination of CBT , and grief education regarding the many normal and natural phases of grief that culturally we haven’t been educated on . I work with many different modalities regarding the anxiety and trauma that one can experience when going through loss . It’s been an honor for me to be able to work with clients as they enter into a new chapter in their lives the human spirit is so resilient as long as we realize that we are not alone . I am here to go through this journey with you and to watch you heal and become resilient in this new chapter . I look forward to working with you.

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Xanthippe (Xan) Walker

Offering therapy in CA
Addictions
21 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions. 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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Christopher Blackwell

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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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Marcelle Turner

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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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Melissa Filla

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Richard De La Garza

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

I am licensed in California with 15 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 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.

How to find counseling in Monterey

Finding the best therapist close by in Monterey 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 Monterey. 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 Monterey, 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 Monterey 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 Monterey 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 Monterey, elsewhere in Monterey, 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 Monterey area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Monterey 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 Monterey 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 Monterey 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 Monterey, 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 Monterey 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 Monterey 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 Monterey 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 Monterey 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 Monterey 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 93944 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 Monterey 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 Monterey 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 Monterey, 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.

Monterey 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Monterey.

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

93940, 93942, 93943, 93944

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