Being near the Pacific Ocean can be great, but sometimes the ocean in your head can be tough to traverse. Luckily, with the help of a counselor in Pacifica, you’ll be able to easily create the life that you want.

Pacifica is actually spread along a 6-mile stretch of beaches all along the coast, and it even has small valleys. It’s a popular surfing location, with many visiting because of how fun it is. You can ride the waves of life in your own way, and with the help of a counselor, it’s definitely possible. 

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 11

Many people seek therapy to make improvements in their lives. My goal is to help you identify and conquer what you feel is holding you back. Working together, I can guide you to move forward through roadblocks and reclaim what you truly want in your life. I am experienced in working with adults and older adults. My specialties include, Stress and Anxiety Management, Life Transitions, Relationship Improvement, Grief/Loss, Cancer and Chronic Illness as well as overall personal growth and insight. My therapeutic style is warm, empathetic and non judgmental. ...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Career difficulties, Depression, Coaching
Years of Experience: 11

Hi and thank you for visiting my page. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Licensed Physical Therapist. My career started in physical therapy but I realized that when working with an individual, you cannot separate mind and body. The two must be addressed in tandem. I have over 10 years of experience in both Clinical and Organizational Therapy. My second doctorate degree in Organizational Psychology included Executive Coaching. I consider myself a generalist, meaning that I am adaptable and skilled to work with clients from various backgrounds, a...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Trauma and abuse, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Years of Experience: 32

Hello! I am a newly retired middle-aged female who worked for a large health care organization for over 30 years both as a therapist and a manager. During my career there I had a chance to work with a wide variety of clients ranging from those with serious mental illness (Bipolar, Schizophrenic) to those that were coping with life issues such as divorce, loss, or job stress. I completed my undergraduate degree at UC Berkeley and then (after a brief hiatus working as a respiratory therapist) attended graduate school at the California School of Professional Psych...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 10

Are you searching for a sense of purpose, seeking to better understand or be understood, or attempting to make decisions more aligned with your personal values? I am an experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing individual and couple's counseling via Telehealth in Northern California. I have supported the journey of people just like you, helping them to approach life's most difficult challenges in the most effective way possible, working toward a common goal of happiness and fulfillment. A session serves as an opportunity to safely delve into ...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Relationship issues, Eating disorders, Depression
Years of Experience: 3

I am a family and marriage therapist licensed in California with almost 20 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and eating disorder specialist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, postpartum depression, and food and body issues. I also helped many people who are experiencing grief, loss and life transitions. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't belie...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Trauma and abuse, Anger management, Depression
Years of Experience: 10

I am licensed therapist with over 10 years of professional work experience. I also earned a credential in substance counseling. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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 ...

Specialties: Addictions, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Intimacy-related issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 25

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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 on that journey.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Grief, Parenting issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 13

Hi there! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas with over 10 years working with children, families, individuals in an array of areas of seeking clarity, wanting to work through complex emotions or traumatic experiences, learning new techniques to cope with difficult situations or to challenge negative thinking patterns. This includes depression, anxiety, career challenges/changes, ADHD, grief, and many focused on personal growth. My motto is stop the stigma. Many people believe because you see a therapist, "there has to be something wrong w...

Specialties: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Self esteem, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 6

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. My experience includes helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, and 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 challenges. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Parenting issues, Self esteem
Years of Experience: 21

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

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Anger management, Self esteem, Depression

I am a bilingual licensed therapist in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & 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.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, LGBT, Self esteem, Depression, ADHD
Years of Experience: 23

I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 23 years of experience, proudly serving the diverse state of California. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working in various settings, from private practice to community mental health agencies, outpatient, and inpatient facilities. My passion lies in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges. Whether it's anxiety, mood disorders, attention issues, or matters related to family dynamics, relationships, or LGBTQ+ concerns, I'm here to provide the support and guidance you...

Specialties: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Parenting issues, Depression, Coaching
Years of Experience: 35

I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients harness the pain of stress and anxiety for growth, relationship challenges stemming from Substance Use Disorders and particularly those who love someone with a SUD. I also work with other family conflicts, & parenting issues. My clients report that I create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting starte...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Depression
Years of Experience: 4

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 8

I am licensed in California with 8 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How To Find Counseling In Your Area

Finding the right therapist close by in Pacifica can feel intimidating. Once you narrow your search for a counselor near the Pacifica area, you're closer to finding providers accepting new clients.

First, research what type of therapy you'd like to pursue before finding a therapist or psychologist. You might be interested in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, marriage and family therapy, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits. If you're still unsure, consider asking your prospective counselors which methods they practice.

When you're ready to search for a counselor in Pacifica, scroll through the options. Next, consider what type of therapy you'd like your counselor to be most experienced with. Finally, choose a provider located near you in the city of Pacifica or elsewhere in San Mateo or the state of California.

Mental health professionals working through their own practice or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships and communication skills, working through life's obstacles, or changing negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a listening ear and validation. Verified Pacifica counselors can provide licensed marriage and compassionate counseling, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

How Do Costs Of Conventional Counseling Compare To BetterHelp With A Pacifica Counselor?

Forbes reports that the average price of an in-person therapy session with a counselor in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Pacifica 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 in Pacifica: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists in Pacifica: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist in Pacifica: $100
  • Therapy with a mental health counselor in Pacifica: $80

Some counselors 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 counselors serving the city of Pacifica and elsewhere throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with counselor sessions ranging from $60 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks).

How Does Working With A Counselor On BetterHelp Work?

It's important to note that these counselors treat clients online. Online providers, including the US-based providers above, can work with people like you in or around Pacifica virtually. You do not have to commute to a counselor's office to meet with one of these counselors.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, receive worksheets, and sign up for mental health webinars. Additionally, the BetterHelp app offers a journaling feature.

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy with a counselor. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists specializing in behavioral health and relationships. You can also try a provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. Look through the available counselors above and consider which might work for you. Professionals on BetterHelp specialize in several mental health issues and modalities. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

Pacifica has many professionals who provide client-centered individual counseling in person and through online therapy. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the US. Many individuals gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy. In Pacifica, therapy can be easily to use and a click away.

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 they may struggle to provide objective guidance. Counselors are also professionals trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist may support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health or life concerns. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another benefit of therapy with a licensed counselor is having a 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 Pacifica counselor 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 can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With almost one million people in Pacifica, CA, finding a counselor can be costly, and they may be booked out with clients. Through the list of counselors above and others through BetterHelp, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching for a nearby psychotherapist close to 94044 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 in Pacifica can be a great option.

How Should I Prepare For My First Session With A Pacifica Counselor? 

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading about the counseling process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist. 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 why you're attending therapy.

Should I See A Counselor 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 counselors often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend counseling. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor 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 with a counselor.

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 Crying In Therapy A Breakthrough?

Crying can be a breakthrough for some individuals who struggle to express emotions. Others might find that they often cry during sessions with their counselor. Crying can be normal and healthy, so whether you cry or not may be a personal aspect of sessions.

Is Mental Health Care Worth It?

We may all be on different paths in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, counselors are trained to meet you where you're at. Counseling can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy each year, showing it's a popular option and may be often effective when working with a licensed counselor.

Do Therapists Judge You? 

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. Their job as your counselor is to support you and make you feel safe and respected. 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 FacebookFor mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time to learn more about BetterHelp therapists to understand the services available to you clearly. If you have any questions, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online counseling, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched with a counselor 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:

There are all kinds of therapists in the Pacifica area, including:

  • CBT in Pacifica
  • DBT in Pacifica
  • Substance use therapy in Pacifica
  • Couples therapy in Pacifica

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

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

94044