Looking for a therapist? Palo Alto, CA has a growing community of mental health professionals. But why limit your search to the Bay Area?

With BetterHelp, you can look beyond Palo Alto County and find the right therapist for you—no matter where in California they are based. 

BetterHelp is home to thousands of clinical psychologists, licensed professional clinical counselors (LPCC), clinical social workers (LCSW), and licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT) representing the full spectrum of mental health services. 

Find the support you’re looking for—no matter where in California your therapist is based. 

Whether you’re seeking traditional talk therapy for mood disorders, evidence-based trauma therapies like EMDR, or simply a supportive space in which to work towards personal growth, BetterHelp can connect you with a provider offering the type of therapy you’re looking for. 

Our smart matching system will pair you with a provider who has the background and clinical expertise to help you. And because we know it can take time to find the right fit, we make it easy to switch therapists at any time. 

In weekly phone, chat, or video therapy sessions, you and your therapist can work together to explore your concerns, develop coping strategies, and set personal goals aimed at positive growth and change. From short-term therapy for navigating a difficult season to ongoing support for mental health maintenance, BetterHelp can be your home for healing. 

Your membership includes access to weekly group therapy, digital therapy worksheets, educational webinars and more, meaning you can make progress faster and get the most out of your mental health investment.

When you feel ready, you can get started by taking a short mental health questionnaire. We’ll match you with a therapist offering the services you’re looking for, and you’ll be able to start scheduling online sessions within 48 hours. With BetterHelp, healing can begin today.

This is Rachel  Fuller's avatar and link to their profile

Rachel Fuller

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Palo Alto
Counselor License Type(s): LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Congratulations! It takes courage to ask for help. Hopefully we can work as a team to improve your perspective, way of thinking and overall approach to live. My name is Rachel Fuller and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor practicing in Southern California for the past 5 years. I grew up in the Philadelphia/ New Jersey and graduated with my Masters from the University of Pennsylvania. As a result I have the benefit of an East coast straightforward and honest approach mixed with SoCal creativity and compassion. Life has changed for everyone over the past few months on a small or large scale. As with any disruption, many people are experiencing any number of emotions : anxiety, loss, uncertainty or depression. It is essential during this time that we maintain human connection and communicate our thoughts, desires, needs and feelings. I hope to provide support for clients of any age who are struggling, want to learn more about themselves or simply need someone to listen. I don't have a "cookie cutter" approach to therapy- I value feedback and flexibility to find the best fit for my clients. I look forward to meeting you!

This is Teresa Cole's avatar and link to their profile

Teresa Cole

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Palo Alto
Counselor License Type(s): LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
16 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) since 2014. I specialize in trauma (EMDR certified), grief and loss, career, disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, anxiety, relationships, life transitions, spiritual issues, etc. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, and families dealing with all types of issues and mental health disorders. My approach is process oriented, solution based, and goal directed while providing psycho-education and resources. I use a variety of modalities that include EMDR, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Expressive Arts, couples counseling, addiction counseling, etc. I will help you access your inner strength and build tools to cope, grow, and heal.

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Dr. Carlyn Werderman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Palo Alto
Counselor License Type(s): Psy.D.
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
14 years of experience

I completed my Master's and Doctoral degrees at the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University in Los Angeles. I offer my clients an individualized, empowering, values-based, and solution-focused therapeutic approach, which derive from several therapeutic approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy, Schema Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. My previous clinical experience includes working with children, families, and adults in school, outpatient/community mental health, and residential treatment settings. I specialize in working with those who experience mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, anger, chronic pain, substance use, relationship, sexual health, and LGBT-related issues. I also specialize in working with high-conflict families, parental alienation and family reunification cases. I look forward to getting to know more about you and see if we are a good fit!

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Richard Pais

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Palo Alto
AddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with 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 declaring your courage in addressing what has not been working and taking the first steps in changing what is needed in order to find self, and i feel honored to be able to join that journey with you.

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Bethany Kelley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Palo Alto
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

Hey there and welcome! I am a Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working in the Mental Health and Addiction fields. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, parenting problems, career/life change, military adjustment concerns, LGBTQ+ and relationship issues. I believe each person is unique and so I use a person centered approach with a very warm, non-judgemental and compassionate style. I believe in treating others with the highest level of respect and dignity. I will meet you where you are and move with you at your pace. I don't believe in stigmatizing labels--the world does enough of that. I acknowledge the courage it takes to seek out answers and create a more rewarding life! I also commend you for your choice in owning the goal to be a healthier YOU! I look forward to joining you on your journey to an improved, happier YOU!

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Joe Narvid

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Palo Alto
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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. I have over 10 years expertise with active military and 30 years expertise with LBGBT issues both civilian and military

This is Sara Abdelhadi's avatar and link to their profile

Sara Abdelhadi

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Palo Alto
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 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 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.

This is Debra Nystrom's avatar and link to their profile

Debra Nystrom

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Palo Alto
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, and coping with grief and loss. 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 here to support you in that process.

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Emily Courney

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Palo Alto
LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
3 years of experience

Emily Courney is a licensed marriage and family therapist in California with 3 years of clinical experience. Emily has a background in research and academia as well as a specialization in sex therapy. In addition to her training as an LMFT, this specialization means she is equipped to work with issues ranging from severe sexual trauma to gender/sexual orientation issues, as well as common intimacy concerns. During your sessions, you will work with Emily J. Courney, LMFT to increase self-awareness surrounding long-standing patterns in order to nurture congruence between your internal world and outward actions. Emily's approach is influenced primarily by existentialist, psychodynamic, and attachment theories. In other words, she will work through several combined approaches in order to help you identify how your past experiences have shaped the way you interact with the world today. Emily has worked with clients from diverse backgrounds and cultures, as well as families and individuals of all ages. She is experienced in helping her clients through self-esteem issues, identity exploration, intimacy issues, anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, and sexual trauma. Collaboratively, you will work toward goals you set together, celebrating achievements along the way.

This is Marc Kitano's avatar and link to their profile

Marc Kitano

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA, Palo Alto
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Palo Alto

Finding the best therapist close by in Palo Alto 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 with therapists in Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Palo Alto, 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Palo Alto area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Palo Alto, elsewhere in Santa Clara, or in the greater state of California. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

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 Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Palo Alto due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Palo Alto 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 therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

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

Therapists in Palo Alto, 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Palo Alto 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 and therapists 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 professional, including the therapists in Palo Alto 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 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. Get matched today.

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

BetterHelp's verified 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.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used 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 - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this 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 Palo Alto provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

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

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Palo Alto 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

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 Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto 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 or therapists 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 94303 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. 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 Palo Alto counselor?

Before seeing your Palo Alto therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Palo Alto therapists here 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.

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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Palo Alto 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 with a Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto, 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.

Palo Alto has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto.

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

94022, 94301, 94302, 94303, 94304, 94306, 95033

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