If you’re ready to get started with a therapist, Oakley, CA, has many highly qualified mental health professionals available. A licensed therapist can help you address many concerns related to your mental and emotional well-being, such as working to overcome social anxiety, address low self-esteem, or solve practical problems in your life. They can likely also help with important issues of self-discovery, such as exploring your gender identity or sexual orientation. Many therapists also work with both individual adults and couples, making therapy a potentially viable option for addressing relational issues or concerns that affect the whole family. 

Most people schedule weekly sessions with their therapist, but some also elect to do every other week and, in some cases, more than once per week, typically for more serious or severe mental health concerns. Therapists in Oakley, CA, span a wide range of specializations, and choosing a practitioner with expertise in your area of concern is often worthwhile. For example, if you’re seeking therapy for help dealing with challenges in your romantic relationship, you may consider seeking a licensed marriage and family therapist. 

When selecting your therapist, you may also consider whether online therapy is a good fit for you. Online therapy allows you to attend therapy remotely via a computer or phone, removing the need to meet a therapist in a physical office. Many California cities, including Oakley, San Jose, San Francisco, and San Diego, have developed robust online therapy communities that likely signal how popular it has become. 

Online therapists typically have the same training and practice using the same evidence-based techniques as in-person therapists. Many therapists are comfortable providing therapy using both online and in-person methods. If online therapy sounds like it might be a good fit for you, consider looking into the online therapists listed below, all of which are highly qualified and experienced. 

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Alice Magnusson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LMFT,PPSC
LGBTTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! My name is Alice Hamlin. I possess a BA and MA in Psychology as well as a Pupil Personnel Services Credential that caters to school aged children who are in need of mental health treatment to better perform academically. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have over 10 years of experience in the field and have been licensed since 2010. My focus, however, is on healing trauma in ages 18 and over specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, sexual assault/abuse, LGBTQ, and foster/family of origin issues. My modality is catered to my clients based on what it is you are looking for as I believe there is no change unless the client wishes to do so. I have found the best changes come from using various modalities such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Unconditional Positive Regard/Rogerian to help you personally meet the goals you have for therapy. I will do my utmost to meet you where you are in order to better stabilize your life and sense of purpose. I have watched lives change from using rudimentary coping skills to becoming proactive members of society, even mentors. I can guarantee that I will be honest with you as we progress through this process together. I realize therapy places you in a vulnerable position, and I commend you for putting your trust in me in order to better yourself.

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Sarah Garlick

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersParenting issues
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Welcome! My name is Sarah Garlick and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I have experience working with clients from many different backgrounds both in program settings and in private practice. I graduated from Boston University, with a Master's in Clinical Social Work in 1999. I believe the first step to any successful therapy is creating a safe and supportive environment for the client. Within a trusting therapeutic relationship there is the opportunity for exploration and growth to occur. I strive to work collaboratively with my clients to overcome the barriers that keep them from having more fulfilling lives. I teach my clients concrete skills that they can use to deal with current issues, and challenges that may occur in the future. I provide compassionate solution-focused psychotherapy. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, but tailor my approach to best meet the needs of my clients. My areas and issues of special interest include: - Insomnia - Anxiety - Parenting and Co-parenting - Building self confidence/self esteem - Depression - Trauma recovery - Life transitions

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Toni McGivern

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed Therapist with over 8 years of experience in California. I've worked with clients with many concerns including anxiety, relationship issues, depression, parenting, etc I've also helped many with trauma and emotional abuse. My approach combines Attachment, Client-centered, Solution-Focused, CBT, and Humanistic. Above all, my priority is meeting you where you are at and your unique needs. I appreciate the courage it takes to reach out. I look forward to joining you on your journey!

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Robert Aerts

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My name is Robert Aerts, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I hold a master’s in counseling psychology and 8 years’ experience working in the Mental Health Field. I have over 30 years’ experience working in Human Services. I have worked with a diverse population through the years. I am LGBTQ friendly and understand the stigmas that come with being LGBTQ. My therapeutic approach varies on what is presented to me. I practice from a Cognitive Behavioral Theory approach. I provide individual therapy. My communication is open and honest. If I am not equipped in assisting the presenting issue, I will discuss alternative resources and supports that can be a better fit.

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Shannan OConnor

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & intimacy related issues. 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.

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Fred Lombardo

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
35 years of experience as a mental health therapist

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, & 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.

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Jaqueline De Leon Urias

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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.

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Heather Salazar

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Craig Wenaweser

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, life coach and meditation teacher and have been studying and practicing various forms of Western Psychology, Eastern Philosophy and Meditation for over 15 years. I have a psychotherapy practice in California offering life, relationship, career and spiritual guidance and support to individuals and couples. I have a BA in Communications from Pepperdine University and a MA in Counseling Psychology from the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology (Now Sofia University). My approach to psychotherapy is transformative and holistic, with an emphasis on the integration of mind and body. I specialize in treating stress, anxiety and depression naturally by using a combination of talk therapy, mindfulness, meditation and somatic therapy. Within this specialty I help clients to identify how diet, exercise and meditation can improve health and well-being, and bring balance to their lives. I am a certified meditation teacher and trained in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and the Hakomi Method. The foundation of my work is a therapeutic relationship that is built on trust, acceptance, understanding, and compassion. My approach is influenced by traditional western psychology as well as transpersonal and existential psychology which explores meaning and purpose in our lives. In our sessions, I will help you to identify and attain your goals, increase self-acceptance, self-compassion and self-love, bring awareness to unconscious patterns that are no longer serving you, develop coping skills to better face the challenges of your life and help you create more conscious and fulfilling relationships. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Steven Blakely

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyDepressionADHD
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, My name is doctor Steven Blakely, and I have a Ph.D. in psychology from California Graduate Inst. in Westwood California. I also have a Bachelors degree and Masters degree from Pepperdine University, in Malibu California. I have had varied work experiences in the field of psychology, including working 6 ears in two different mental hospitals, with inpatient psychiatric patients; as well as working 12 years conducting psychological and educational testing of children, adolescents and adults. I also have worked for 12 years with the skilled nursing and assisted living senior population, and had mostly worked with the following mental health issues prominent with that population: depression, anxiety, worry and grief. I have been. joyous and committed long-time seeker, meaning always wanting to learn, to advance my understanding and skills to apply to my working psychology population. I am largely committed to assisting patents cope with life through acceptance, meditation, mindfulness, inquiry work, and spiritual seeking. I have certificates in behavioral medicine and hypnosis. I have also compiled much therapy homework to further educate patients on how to manage mood and quiet the mind. I believe that mood stability is achieved through quieting the mind, and maintaining attention on the present moment with acceptance and nonjudgment.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Oakley

Finding the best therapist close by in Oakley 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 in Oakley that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Oakley. 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 Oakley, 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 in the Oakley region and in the state of California. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Oakley or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Oakley area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Oakley 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 Oakley, elsewhere in Contra Costa, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Oakley 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 Oakley 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 Oakley 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

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

Therapists in Oakley, 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 Oakley psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Oakley 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 Oakley helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Oakley 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:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Oakley 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 in Oakley?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Oakley 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.

Oakley therapists 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 Oakley 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 Oakley 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in CA, therapists 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 94561 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

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

Before seeing your Oakley 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Oakley.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Oakley 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 with a Oakley counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Oakley, 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.

Oakley 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Oakley, California

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 to customer service 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 Oakley.

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

94561

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