Your mental state sometimes feels like being stranded in an ocean. Bottomless, with no one around you to help. A counselor based in Oceanside can be the lifeboat you need. They can help you with your internal and external struggles, and help you maintain a better life. 

Oceanside is known for its long pier. Life can sometimes feel like walking down a long pier. Sometimes, it’s pretty, and other times, the pier is unstable and it feels like you'll fall into the water below. A counselor can be that person who helps you hold on and helps you with any help you need. 

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Percival Fisher, Jr.

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Greetings, Everyone! I'm Percival Fisher, Jr., but you can simply call me "Percy." With 13 years of experience, I've been dedicated to providing both individual and group psychotherapy. My goal is to assist you in achieving your therapy objectives by creating a safe, warm, and interactive space to explore your presenting issues. I bring expertise in addressing a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, "coming out"/LGBTQIA-related issues, and family conflicts. To tailor the therapeutic experience to your unique needs, I employ a diverse set of treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Harm Reduction, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Crisis Intervention, and Relational Therapeutic techniques. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Florida, North Carolina, California, Oregon, Arizona, Washington (LICSW), and West Virginia (LICSW), I am also a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (BCD) by the American Board of Examiners in Clinical Social Work. Additionally, I hold certifications as a Certified Complex Trauma Professional (CCTP-II) from the International Association of Trauma Professionals and a Certified Case Manager (CCM) from the Commission for Case Management Certification. Beyond psychotherapy, my background spans behavioral health research, HIV/AIDS education and counseling, teaching, medical social work, and leadership. During my leisure time, I indulge in watching Marvel series on Netflix, psychological thrillers, reading, traveling, engaging in conversations about current events related to mental health, and staying active through workouts. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to work with you and support your journey. Take care! Percival Fisher, Jr., MSW, LCSW-C. LICSW, LCSW, BCD, CCTP-II, CCM

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Terese Ghilarducci

Offering therapy in CA
License: MFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist living in the Bay Area in California. I have been licensed for 22 years and most of my work has been with working with high school students and their families. I am also a former social worker working with foster children and their foster families. I am also a school counselor at an Alternative Education School and have been working there for the past 16 years. My daily work consists of working with adolescents who have a variety of issues that have impacted their academic life. My students are working through many obstacles such as school phobia, stress and anxiety, depression, family, and substance abuse issues. Even though I work primarily with adolescents, I do work with their parents and assist them in navigating parenting a teen. All of us adults were once adolescents. We definitely try to learn from our past. I strive to use a client-centered approach in working with individuals and I also like to include art and journaling as a way to explore issues. I offer a safe container for you to share and I am honored that you are open to working with me.

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Dr. Kandice Hsu

Offering therapy in CA
License: PsyD,LMFT
GriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

Welcome to the BetterHelp community! My name is Dr. Kandice Hsu and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California. For over 8 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals and families on challenges related to grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), self-esteem, life transitions and systemic/relational conflict. As a parent, I am deeply passionate about working with individuals experiencing prenatal and postpartum depression to help them navigate and find balance among the ebbs and flow of this beautiful, yet often lonely, journey. I believe that that healing comes from making deeper and meaningful connections to yourself, your stories, and relationships. I place a special emphasis on strength-based counseling utilizing modalities such as solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), an evidence-based treatment for children and adolescents impacted by trauma. I strive to make my sessions a safe and collaborative space to help you meet your goals. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I generally check messages here a few times a day Monday-Friday and respond as quickly as I can. I do appreciate your patience when it takes a bit longer at times, as I may be tending to other clients or professional/personal responsibilities. 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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Patrice Trevoledes

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
34 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 34 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Andrea Foerster

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Hello and welcome to my profile! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri and have been helping individuals seek life solutions for over 10 years. I enjoy helping clients work on a variety of issues but am especially passionate about helping women overcome issues related to anxiety and life changes (relationship, motherhood, menopause, etc). Methods that I have found particularly effective for clients in therapy include but are not limited to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Exposure and Response Prevention. For couples and relationship therapy I draw from the Gottman Method to guide the progression. Each client is unique and therapy is planned around the client’s needs and goals. I feel that trust in the therapeutic relationship is the basis for our work together and we will start out investing time to build that relationship. I am hopeful that through a strong therapeutic alliance and evidence-based methods we can make excellent progress toward your goals. Let’s work together to find joy and value in your life that you never thought possible!

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Iria Sebastiao

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Are you struggling with feeling stuck, lost, or overwhelmed? Do you have angst because life doesn't feel right, or could it be better? Do you want to have better and healthier relationships? If you're motivated to do personal work and move toward a better-feeling life, I'm here to help. As a licensed therapist in California with a decade of professional experience, I have the expertise and compassion to guide you toward healing and personal growth. But that's not all - I'm also a certified life coach and intuitive healer. This means that I can offer you a holistic, transformative experience beyond traditional therapy. As we work together, you'll learn practical skills for managing stress and anxiety, better navigating relationships, and tapping into your inner wisdom and intuition to uncover your true desires and passions. You are the ruler of your life, and you define your goals for therapy. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your unique needs and desires. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. We'll work together to create a plan that aligns with your values and aspirations, and I'll support you every step of the way. Together, we can light the path toward the life you deeply yearn for. If you're ready to take that first step toward healing and personal growth, I invite you to reach out to me today. Seeking help takes courage, and I'm here to support you. Let's work together to overcome the challenges holding you back and create a life filled with joy, fulfillment, and purpose.

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Suzanne Knapp

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigue
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York with over 10 years of experience working as a Social Worker, psychotherapist, Social work supervisor, and life coach. I have worked in several different settings including foster care, a group residence, a domestic violence shelter, schools, an assisted living home, outpatient mental health clinics as well as private practice. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns and personal goals. I enjoy being able to work with people who are desiring to identify their purpose, build their self esteem and confidence, and learn more about themselves throughout the process. My counseling style is eclectic, engaging and interactive. I believe that every person deserves to have someone that they can talk to, gain insight from and connect with that will not interfere with their daily living. Family and friends are great supports and often times will provide what they think we want them to provide and not what we really want or what really need. I like to create personal and professional goals with individuals based on their interests, opinions, and skills not based on other people's opinions of them. I often will use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Therapy with a humanistic and solution focused approach. Everyone benefits from being able to have a coach, a therapist, someone on their side. I would love to be able to work with you and assist you in being the best version of yourself.

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John Shustitzky

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California, Illinois and Pennsylvania with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. 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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Lynette Alarcon

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsEating disordersDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & eating disorders. I also have experience working with 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. 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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Brennan Fitzgerald

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesCoachingADHD
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, career difficulties, & executive and professional coaching. 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.

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How to find counseling in Oceanside

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Oceanside 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 Oceanside 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 Oceanside 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 Oceanside, 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 Oceanside 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 Oceanside 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 Oceanside 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 Oceanside 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 Oceanside 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 92057 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 Oceanside 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 Oceanside 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 Oceanside, 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.

Oceanside 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 Oceanside.

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

92049, 92051, 92052, 92054, 92056, 92057, 92058, 92068

Popular cities near Oceanside, CA

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