When seeking mental health support in Pleasant Hill, CA, you will find a variety of services offered by therapists through online therapy. Whether you are dealing with difficult emotions or looking for personal growth, finding the right therapist is crucial. 

Therapists in Pleasant Hill often utilize expressive arts therapy and other evidence-based approaches to help clients develop effective coping mechanisms. This can be especially beneficial for those who have experienced perinatal loss or other significant life changes. Residents of Contra Costa County and nearby Walnut Creek have access to compassionate care tailored to their specific needs.

If you are seeking therapy, it's important to find a professional who can help you navigate through difficult emotions such as stomach dropping and throat clenching sensations. Therapists in this region often specialize in helping women manage unique challenges and stressors.

Therapy can be a valuable tool for personal growth and emotional healing, enabling you to build resilience and improve overall well-being. Whether you are new to therapy or looking to continue your mental health journey, Pleasant Hill offers a supportive environment for your needs.

Please see the therapist profiles below for more information on the different therapists available online.

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Psychologist Dr. Frederick  Smoot providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Dr. Frederick Smoot

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 12959
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years offering treatment

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (CA #12959) with over 15 years of experience counseling/ accompanying persons through difficult parts of their life-journeys. I have worked with a wide range of concerns including Isolation. loneliness, fearfulness, anxiety, intimacy/relationship issues, parenting and career challenges, addiction, physical and emotional abuse and life transitions. My counseling style is warm, curious and appropriately truth-telling.. I treat others with respect and consistent presence. I work to sustain and shame-free context that empowers persons to (re)claim their lies and future with dignity. I am an accompanist, using therapeutic tools gathered from several clinical approaches. I am relational, client centered, mindful, and strategic. I believe that direction and goals for therapy are shaped together with the client. We will tailor a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Your willingness to reach out for support shows your courage and desire for a better future. I encourage you to take this step, accompanied and supported I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Alexander "Alex" Dannin providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Alexander "Alex" Dannin

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 120576
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
10 years offering treatment

Greetings! It’s my passion and pleasure to support individuals who are looking to make meaningful changes in their life. I believe that our natural state is one of health and balance—feeling at peace, worthy, and capable. Life’s negative experiences can temporarily disrupt this state, leading to negative feelings and emotions. We intuitively sense something is off through our 'negative' emotions such as anger, sadness, or fear. I view all feelings as inherently neutral; they are signals indicating whether we are in or out of alignment with our true selves. Emotions don’t exist in isolation—they serve as guides, bringing our attention to what we believe about ourselves and the situations we encounter. My role is to identify the beliefs underlying these emotions and to help you make the necessary changes in thoughts, behaviors, and actions to restore balance and reconnect with your natural state. In terms of modalities, I draw from a range of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Client-Centered Therapy. I’m flexible and adapt my methods to suit each client’s unique needs, rather than fitting clients into a predefined model. I also incorporate principles of Human Design into my practice, using this unique system to provide additional insights into personal strengths, challenges, and life patterns, enhancing the therapeutic process. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in San Diego, California, with eight years of experience. I have worked with diverse populations including active-duty military, first responders, corporate professionals, retirees, young adults, and the homeless. Before transitioning to mental health, I worked in various corporate roles in IT and finance. Following my passion, I changed careers to support others on their journey to well-being.

Psychologist Marianna Evripidou providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Marianna Evripidou

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 41819
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
21 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & intimacy related issues. 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!

Psychologist Leslie Patricia Acoca providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Leslie Patricia Acoca

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 14447
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesParenting issues
20 years offering treatment

I am a licensed California Marriage and Family Therapist with 20 years of experience providing therapy to individuals, couples and families. I work with clients to create a warm and trusting environment where they can explore and find solutions for stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, as well as intimacy and relationship issues. I have extensive experience working clients and families who have lost loved ones to suicide. Taking the first step to creating a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Eileen Maxwel providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Eileen Maxwel

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 50173
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
20 years offering treatment

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

Psychologist Karen Camese providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Karen Camese

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 99165
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and healing journeys. My practice centers on addressing trauma, addiction, family dynamics, and personal growth, with a deep commitment to empowering clients across diverse backgrounds. I bring compassionate expertise to challenges including grief, life changes, communication difficulties, and interpersonal relationships. My approach honors each person's unique story, focusing on building self-love, understanding personal purpose, and developing resilient coping strategies. My therapeutic work spans a wide range of experiences—from supporting individuals navigating midlife transitions to helping those healing from domestic violence, addiction, and intergenerational family dynamics. I am particularly passionate about creating affirming spaces for women, caregivers, and older adults seeking meaningful personal transformation. Through evidence-based, culturally responsive practices, I walk alongside clients as they rediscover their strength, reconnect with their inherent worth, and cultivate profound healing and self-understanding.

Psychologist Laurel Lass providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Laurel Lass

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 20677
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
24 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California and Montana with 20 years of professional work experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & increasing motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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.

Psychologist Natarajan Gowda providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Natarajan Gowda

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 24853
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, & depression. I also have experience working with 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. 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.

Psychologist Tiffany Whittington providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Tiffany Whittington

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 150425
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Janice Snyder providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Janice Snyder

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 8880
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have a Ph.D. from USC. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, & 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. 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.

Psychologist Christopher Lum providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Christopher Lum

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 29237
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
15 years offering treatment

I grew up navigating the space between cultures—balancing the desire to fit in with my peers while honoring the Chinese roots my family cherished. Those early experiences taught me how complex identity, belonging, and cultural expectations can feel, especially for those who move between multiple worlds. That understanding eventually led me to AAPI Studies and psychology, where I discovered my passion for supporting Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. Throughout my training, I sought out opportunities to work directly with AAPI individuals and other marginalized groups. I volunteered with AADAP on community health initiatives, supported research on AAPI depression and perfectionism, and taught CBT-based social skills to veterans with dual diagnoses. Hearing a Hmong social worker speak about the power of multilevel social interventions was the moment I realized social work was where I belonged. After earning my MSW, I worked with veterans experiencing homelessness and with individuals in psychiatric inpatient settings. Today, I serve as a medical social worker in emergency and outpatient settings at the VA and Kaiser. Much of my work has involved supporting geriatric clients through dialysis, end-of-life issues, caregiving challenges, and placement decisions. In recent years, I’ve felt called to reconnect with my roots by creating healing spaces for BIPOC and AAPI communities. My own healing journey has shaped my approach as well. Through mindfulness and loving-kindness practices, I learned to soften the inner critical voice that so many of us carry—especially in communities where perfectionism, pressure, and family expectations can feel ever-present. I also bring lived experience: navigating mental health challenges, AAPI sexuality/gender expectations/conflicts, speech therapy in childhood, addiction, depression, social anxiety, and the pressure of not fitting the “model minority” image. These experiences deepen my belief that therapy should be a compassionate, culturally attuned space where clients feel seen, understood, and supported. Today, I am committed to holding space for AAPI and BIPOC individuals as they explore identity, generational differences, trauma, and healing. I believe there are many different cultural masks that one is wearing at a time that shapes the roles and expectations of what it means to be one's self in the moment. My approach is grounded in mindfulness, self compassion, CBT, ACT and cultural humility—and in the belief that every person has the capacity to grow with the right support.

Psychologist Javier Gonzalez providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Javier Gonzalez

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 101922
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

I am a Hispanic Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California, originally from Mexico, and I am deeply committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of the Latino/Hispanic community. My therapeutic work is grounded in cultural understanding, respect, and lived experience. I specialize in helping individuals navigate relationship challenges, cope with stress and anxiety, and overcome struggles with addiction. Growing up in poverty and surrounded by the very real risks of gang involvement and community violence, I understand firsthand the complex pressures many in our community face. Through resilience, support, and education, I was able to forge a different path—becoming a U.S. citizen, completing my college education, and earning my master’s degree in social work. These experiences shape the way I practice therapy today: with authenticity, empathy, and a deep belief in each person’s capacity for healing and change. For many years, I have worked closely with Latino/Hispanic individuals and families, providing therapy from a culturally attuned perspective that honors our shared values, challenges, and strengths. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming space where clients feel understood—where they can explore their experiences openly and build healthier relationships with themselves, their partners, and their families. I bring real-world insight, professional training, and cultural connection to every session. Whether you’re struggling with addiction, stress, relationship conflict, or simply feeling stuck, I’m here to help you move forward with compassion and clarity.

Psychologist Donice Holbrook providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Donice Holbrook

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 25597
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist that provides specialty in anxiety management and depression. I bring over two decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding and addressing mental health concerns with empathy and professional expertise. I specialize in helping clients navigate a wide range of emotional experiences, including depression, anxiety, stress management, and self-esteem challenges. My therapeutic practice focuses on supporting individuals through significant life transitions, social anxieties, communication difficulties, and personal growth journeys. With a commitment to holistic healing, I offer a supportive environment that honors each client's unique experiences. My work spans diverse areas including women's issues, addiction recovery, family dynamics, and support for individuals facing chronic health challenges. My practice is grounded in a Christian-informed perspective, providing culturally sensitive care that respects individual beliefs and values. I am particularly passionate about supporting older adults and individuals seeking a compassionate, conservative therapeutic approach. I believe in empowering clients to discover their inner strength, develop healthy coping strategies, and create meaningful personal transformation.

Psychologist Sally Hazard providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Sally Hazard

Clinician
License Type(s): NV LMFT 1037-R, CA LMFT MFC42180
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
21 years offering treatment

Hello. I've been a licensed marriage and family therapist for 21 years, and I love helping people! I've practiced in Orlando, FL, San Diego, CA, and Reno, NV, and I've worked in private practice, group homes, counseling agencies, with foster children and teens, and at the university of NV in Reno counseling center with college students. I understand what it is to have issues that are hard to resolve on one's own. Congratulations if you are considering getting some help! I only do teletherapy, but I've found it is well liked. We can do most therapies, even EMDR, a modified sandtray therapy, and some online games. I've worked with all ages, diverse cultures, folks who have neurodivergent minds, and those who have various sexual preferences. I believe that everyone has within them the innate ability to heal and grow, and I want to help you with that process!!

Find a Therapist Near You in Pleasant Hill , California

Finding a licensed therapist near you in California can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in California, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in California (CA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across California, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across California with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

When searching for a therapist near me in California, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across California, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across California.

Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in California want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in California without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in California (CA)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in California

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across California, including residents in Pleasant Hill.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in California do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Pleasant Hill can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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