In Poway, CA 92064, those seeking therapy can find a range of services that cater to family conflict, anxiety disorders, including social anxiety, and strategies for treating depression. Therapist Susan Rae Miller is one of the local professionals who employs a holistic approach to foster a fulfilling life and enhance overall well-being.

Therapists in Poway use various treatment approaches, such as play therapy, which is particularly beneficial for clients dealing with low self esteem or specific emotional challenges. This method can be especially helpful in creating a supportive and engaging therapeutic environment.

Finding the best therapist for your needs in Poway involves considering someone who understands and aligns with your personal and psychological goals. The right professional may help you develop strategies and tools to manage and overcome personal challenges effectively.

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

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Psychologist Judy Thompson providing different types of therapy in Poway

Judy Thompson

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMFT MT3344, CA LMFT 86907
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflicts
15 years offering treatment

My name is Judy Thompson. I have been a licensed marriage and family therapist since 2015. My communication style is supportive and educational. I employ a Family Systems approach which considers the impact of childhood experiences on present relationship -functioning. I offer 30 - 45 minute PHONE sessions (only). Subscribers typically schedule sessions once a week.

Psychologist Henry Burciaga providing different types of therapy in Poway

Henry Burciaga

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 19940
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
40 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring nearly four decades of compassionate clinical experience to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding diverse human experiences, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and trauma recovery. I am committed to creating a supportive therapeutic environment that honors each person's unique journey. My practice focuses on helping clients navigate intricate emotional landscapes, including issues related to self-love, communication challenges, isolation, life purpose, and social anxiety. I have extensive experience working with individuals across various life stages, from young adults to older populations. My therapeutic style integrates cultural sensitivity and a holistic understanding of personal growth. I strive to provide a non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're confronting interpersonal conflicts, processing traumatic experiences, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I am dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise.

Psychologist Mario Palacios providing different types of therapy in Poway

Mario Palacios

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 46078
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
25 years offering treatment

Dealing with difficulties, stressors and life’s challenges can be quite challenging. However, I believe it is something that you don’t have to go through alone. If you are ready to invest in your healing, let's talk about ways in which I can help you. I want to talk to you first about how I work. I work with people who are ready to improve their quality of life and who are highly motivated to create realistic expectations that will help to empower them. I strive to help those who have lost control of their lives and help them gain it back by becoming more attuned with their lives. Our relationship is one of trust, empathy and a solid building foundation. From there, we work together to build and create realistic goals that will help to improve your growth and build positive changes in your life. It is wonderful when you can be good to yourself. Remember that change comes from within. I look forward to you taking that first step

Psychologist Katherine Eldean providing different types of therapy in Poway

Katherine Eldean

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 49558
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
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, coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma, & abuse. I also have experience working with depression and Bipolar Disorder. 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 happy life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Jacqueline Hayes providing different types of therapy in Poway

Jacqueline Hayes

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 50113
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
16 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring 16 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, family conflicts, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing issues such as self-esteem, communication difficulties, social anxiety, and relationship dynamics. My approach is compassionate and tailored, drawing from a deep understanding of human experiences. I'm particularly committed to supporting women, young adults, and individuals wrestling with life transitions, workplace stress, and personal identity. Whether you're struggling with isolation, seeking purpose, or working through relationship challenges, I offer a supportive, understanding environment. Grounded in Christian values and a conservative therapeutic perspective, I create a safe space where clients can explore their emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and move towards healing and self-discovery. My goal is to empower you to build resilience, find inner strength, and create meaningful, positive change in your life.

Psychologist Eric Aldaco providing different types of therapy in Poway

Eric Aldaco

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 116682
Mental Wellness Specialties: Self esteemCoping with life changes
16 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I believe that you are the expert of your life journey 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 life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am a Christian therapist and my approach to therapy is from a biblical perspective. I look forward in meeting you and collaboratively engaging in a strength base therapeutic model in treatment.

Psychologist Dr. Stacy Johnston providing different types of therapy in Poway

Dr. Stacy Johnston

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist 17457
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
32 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 32 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 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. NOTE-I do provide asynchronous text messaging only and prefer it for the following reasons: very flexible with no scheduling necessary, can refer back to our conversation at any time day or night and get a response anywhere from within a few hours to no later than 12 hours typically, with multiple exchanges in one day/evening when not busy, allows both parties to be on their own time schedule at their convenience, and for some it is easier to express thoughts and feelings in writing versus verbally or when on camera. I have worked this way for over a year and have had success with many clients who work well with this format. It is not for everyone, but for some, it does work really well and provides more contact than a weekly live session does. I hope to work with you soon!

Psychologist Dale Hamilton providing different types of therapy in Poway

Dale Hamilton

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 1773, CA LMFT 34248
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
29 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with nearly three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients address challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma recovery, and grief. I offer a compassionate approach that honors each person's unique journey, whether they're seeking faith-based guidance or a secular therapeutic experience. My expertise centers on supporting men through life transitions, addressing social anxiety, healing from past traumas, and helping individuals rediscover their sense of purpose. I understand the profound impact of isolation, shame, and personal struggles, and I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, develop healthier communication patterns, and work towards personal growth and healing. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I provide a warm, understanding space where clients can explore their challenges, develop resilience, and move towards more fulfilling lives. My approach is tailored to meet each individual's specific needs, respecting their personal background and therapeutic goals.

Psychologist Alexandra "Lexy" Spett providing different types of therapy in Poway

Alexandra "Lexy" Spett

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 37465
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
24 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with 24 years of experience in California, I specialize in supporting late adolescents (16-19), young adults (20–30), and their parents through life’s transitions and challenges with clarity and confidence. Please note: I do work with adults (35-64) on a case by case basis. Becoming an adult is not easy. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, or issues with motivation, self-esteem, or confidence, I’m here to help. With parents of emerging adults, I offer compassionate guidance to navigate relational shifts while fostering a stronger, more meaningful connection with your young adult. My style is warm, direct, honest, and rooted in compassion. I believe in creating a safe, respectful space where we can collaborate to build a treatment plan tailored specifically to you. Your journey is unique, and I’m committed to meeting you exactly where you are. Taking the first step toward change can feel overwhelming, but it’s also an act of courage and self-care. Together, we’ll work to identify your strengths, build your confidence, and help you create the life you want. I'm ready to take this journey with you!

Psychologist Eustacia Joseph providing different types of therapy in Poway

Eustacia Joseph

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 135568, FL LCSW SW18379
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficulties
4 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with career difficulties. 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 Mark Saverino providing different types of therapy in Poway

Mark Saverino

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 11155
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
35 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Elena Balashova-Shamis providing different types of therapy in Poway

Elena Balashova-Shamis

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist PSY20104
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
23 years offering treatment

Dr. Elena Balashova-Shamis is a highly experienced, licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adults, and elderly. She is trained as a psychoanalyst and provides integrative, personalized treatments for her patients. She teaches at 5 local universities, including UCLA’s medical school and NPI. She is known for her presentations, publications, and dissertation advising.

Psychologist Alexander Schwarz providing different types of therapy in Poway

Alexander Schwarz

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 146580
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

I'm a licensed therapist in California with a decade of experience supporting individuals through life's most challenging moments. I work with clients navigating depression, anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, and trauma, helping them build resilience and find meaningful paths forward. My approach is grounded in compassion and respect for each person's unique values and beliefs. I welcome clients from diverse faith backgrounds—whether Christian, non-religious, or anywhere in between—and I'm committed to honoring your worldview as we work together. I specialize in helping clients explore self-love, improve communication, address isolation and loneliness, and discover life purpose. I also support those working through social anxiety, guilt and shame, forgiveness, control issues, panic attacks, trauma recovery, divorce, attachment challenges, caregiver stress, and mood-related concerns. My therapeutic style is collaborative and person-centered. I believe you are the expert of your own experience, and my role is to walk alongside you with genuine care, curiosity, and steadiness. I'm honored to support you as you move toward healing and growth.

Psychologist Keyla Decos providing different types of therapy in Poway

Keyla Decos

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 112463
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

I'm a therapist with a decade of experience supporting individuals through some of life's most challenging moments. I specialize in helping people navigate depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, grief, and concerns around self-esteem. I also work with clients exploring communication patterns, life purpose, social anxiety, guilt and shame, and posttraumatic stress. My approach is grounded in compassion and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your experiences at your own pace. Whether you're working through past trauma, managing mood challenges, or seeking clarity about your direction in life, I'm here to support your journey toward healing and growth. I'm honored by the trust my clients place in me, and I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine care and understanding.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Poway, California

Finding a therapist near you in Poway, California starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you. 

The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In California, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.

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 can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.

Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In California, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.

Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in California

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. 

You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.

Therapists near you in California

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

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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

Is online therapy effective?

Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.

How quickly can I start therapy?

You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.

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 discreet?

Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.

Find a Therapist in Poway, California

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Poway and the surrounding CA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

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