This is Jeana De Lay's avatar and link to their profile

Jeana De Lay

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT, MA
Parenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficulties
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I have been practicing therapy for over 16 years and enjoy working with men, women, children and couples. I have had success working with clients who have had past trauma and/or transitional issues and utilize forms of long and short term therapy for adults, helping them all to find their voice. I strive to be a warm, caring and understanding counselor to help clients feel comfortable and safe with the process of counseling. In addition, I teach parenting skills, helping parents find ways to interact, communicate and discipline their children at different stages of the child's life in a loving and consistent manner. I am also a Life Coach and for me, coaching creates a bridge from where you are now to where you want to be. Coaching is a goal-oriented processes, working on identifying personal development issues which connect the client to their goals, helps them find the ways to let go of their past stumbling blocks, help them achieve their future life goal, and moving them onto their successful path. I work with my clients to create a specific plan, which could involve some homework assignments tailored for the client to move forward to realize their vision and ultimate life goal. In working with clients I want to help them find ways to discover their path toward a more successful and positive future. I want to assist the client in defining their treatment goals, which involves an increased sense of well-being, relationship building, improving communication levels, changing behavior patterns and ultimately helping them find their “a-ha moment”.

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Marjorie Fagan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I would like to, first of all, congratulate you on taking the first step toward getting the support you need right now! My name is Marjorie, and I live in sunny Southern California with my partner John, of many years, my three cats, three dogs, and tortoise (who is currently hibernating)...don't we all wish we could do that at times? I have had the privilege of being a 'helper' for almost 13 years now...time really does fly! And, that is another reason for congratulating yourself for seeking help. Time is of the essence! I want to help you work through issues that are holding you back from being your true authentic self! Issues, or struggles that are too big or overwhelming to solve on your own. I know that I am not a fixer, and I don't have all the answers, although I might have a suggestion or two. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings over the years, and with many ethnic populations. I also have Certifications in the Trauma Resiliency Model, Mindfulness Meditation, Play Therapy with Children, and Alcohol and other Drug Counseling! I love what I do and consider it an honor to collaborate, and help you resolve whatever it might be that is holding you back..keeping you stuck! I look forward to working with you!

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Nicole Forester

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LPCC,MT-BC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello - My name is Nicole Forester . I welcome you. I recognize the energy it takes to seek support. What I can offer is non-judgmental listening to help you hear your own voice. I invite you to be as direct and unedited as you are comfortable. I believe speaking your full truth is the best place to start. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (CA), a Licensed Professional Counselor (CO) and a Nationally Board-Certified Music Therapist. I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Therapy from Utah State University in 2002 followed by an internship at Bethany Children’s Home in Pennsylvania. I graduated with a Master of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix in 2007. I have worked in a variety of settings: University Neuropsychiatric Institute, Inpatient Units, Addiction Recovery Utah Youth Village, In-Home Crisis Team Project Reality, Outpatient Addiction Services and Dual-Diagnosis Arbour Counseling Services, Outpatient Services, Intensive-Outpatient Program Groups Hospice by the Bay, Children and Teens in Hospice Established Private Practice in 2012-2019 in San Francisco. I encourage you to interview your therapist to find a good fit. Feel free to connect with me. We can talk about what kind of support you seek. I will do my best to answer any questions you might have about this process. I believe that having someone to listen objectively can be very helpful. I appreciate the courage it takes to ask for help. Take good care. Hope to hear from you.

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Holly Starr

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, I am a psychotherapist with 25 years of experience practicing in the San Francisco Bay Area. With a BA in English Literature and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology, I move comfortably between live talk therapy and online written mediums. I have worked with adolescents, adults and the elderly in residential and private practice settings. I am struck by the unique challenges we all face as we transition from one developmental stage of life to the next. My early work as a suicide prevention hotline counselor and grief therapist/supervisor has laid the foundation for my enduring interest in how to move through depression, loss and bereavement. I am particularly attuned to feelings of shame, low self-esteem, and relational conflict which may affect our productivity and may lead to feelings of despondency or anxiety. As a therapist, I am an intuitive listener and an active observer as I encourage clients to become more open and curious about what they are feeling. Together, we explore experiences that may be difficult to put into words, that may feel conflicted or shrouded by pain. As issues become clearer, we might explore how our thoughts influence our choices and behaviors. We may find that even small shifts can have a positive impact on feelings of well-being. I realize that it may not be easy to reach out to a therapist for help. You've taken the first step and I look forward to meeting you as you begin this journey for yourself.

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Sharon Barbour

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Trauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

In my practice, I focus on walking with clients through some of the most difficult events in their lives. Whether you've considered an experience “traumatic” or not, if it still haunts you or causes you uncomfortable physical responses like a racing heart or nausea, these can be treated with EMDR or Brainspotting. I, myself, am a trauma survivor, which is why I became a counselor/coach in the first place. I want to help others heal as I have. Utilizing modalities such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can unlock sensations of safety, clarity and freedom in life. I am licensed in California and Indiana with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, finding self esteem, and building confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I know how scary and overwhelming the self healing process can seem. I want to encourage you to be compassionate and patient with yourself. Any and all progress is valuable, so please take these next steps with me.

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Arthur Brendze

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
LGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
30 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Fang-Yi Wu

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCompassion 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, relationship issues, family conflicts, & compassion fatigue. 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 Carmen Gonzalez-Ball's avatar and link to their profile

Carmen Gonzalez-Ball

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
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, parenting issues, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Mary Amanda Alls's avatar and link to their profile

Mary Amanda Alls

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Arkansas and California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have been working with children experiencing mental health crises for the past two years and adults with depression and anxiety for the past several years. I have expertise in mindfulness, yoga, crisis de-escalation and compassionate listening. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Thank you for considering me on your healing journey.

This is William Latta's avatar and link to their profile

William Latta

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
60 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 60 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy-related issues, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I apply many different psychological modalities ranging from psychoanalytic, behavioral, gestalt, bioenergetics, trauma, and attachment therapy to help the client obtain their goals. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. My style is informal and casual to encourage an easy back-and-forth dialogue. I believe that the body is an important part of any communication, therefore I do video sessions. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life is an act of courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Palos Verdes Estates

Finding the best therapist close by in Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates. 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 Palos Verdes Estates, 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 Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates, elsewhere in Los Angeles, 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 Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Palos Verdes Estates, 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 Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Palos Verdes Estates 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.

Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates 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 90274 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 Palos Verdes Estates counselor?

Before seeing your Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates.

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 Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates, 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.

Palos Verdes Estates 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 Palos Verdes Estates, 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 Palos Verdes Estates.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Palos Verdes Estates:

90274

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