If you’re looking for a therapist in Richmond, CA, consider an online therapy platform like BetterHelp. With BetterHelp, you can meet with a committed therapist from the comfort of your own home or anywhere you have an internet connection at a time that fits your schedule. Plus, you can change providers anytime at no additional charge until you find the right fit.
A therapist is different from a life coach and can help you explore a variety of treatment approaches. Every BetterHelp therapist has at least a master’s degree and meets all knowledge and clinical requirements for state licensure. They can help determine what therapy approach may work to help you get the results you seek.
A Bay Area therapist can help you navigate a variety of difficult experiences, including the symptoms of mental health conditions like anxiety and depression or the effects of traumatic events like abuse or chronic illness. You can also work with a therapist if you need help working through stress, finding a healthy work-life balance, or learning to prioritize self-care. Connect with one of the therapists in Richmond, CA, below to learn more.
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David Shaw
Hello, I’m David Shaw. Thank you for being curious about me.. I would like to say a little about myself in order to help you imagine if we might be a good fit to work well together. First the basics. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. I was first licensed in 1978. I have had many years of experience helping people address a variety of concerns. It is my experience that therapy works best when the client feels the therapist is really interested in them and how they see the world. I believe we all have a deep need to have someone really understand our experience. I feel I do this well. During our lives we evolve. Our needs change. We seek love, respect and security. We want to be valued for who we are. At times we find that things are not working out as we had hoped. In sessions I encourage clients to talk as openly as they are able. If what I have said is of interest please reach out to me so can explore ways I can be of help to you.
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Dr. Shano Palovich Rodgers
I believe that the success of therapy is largely dependent on the relationship I have with my clients. CS Lewis once said, "To love at all is to be vulnerable." I think that vulnerability is a precious gift that is not to be taken lightly. It's very important that my clients feel safe to express that vulnerability in a non-judgmental environment that inspires trust. I work with clients according to their self-identified, strengths, needs and goals. Together we craft a path toward insight with compassion and motivation at your pace. I have over 20 years of experience working in the field of child welfare including foster and adoptive care. I also worked in private practice and helped clients with depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, secondary trauma, parenting challenges, and workplace pressure. I have a MA in Clinical Psychology and a PhD in Organizational Psychology. I use a variety of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative and Solution-Focused therapies, Psychodynamic Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I am a certified trainer in the Nurtured Heart Approach (for parenting intense children and youth) and am also a certified life coach. I look forward to partnering with you on your journey.
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Sue (Susie) Swartz
Every client has a story to tell and specific needs that bring them to therapy. Whether its a major life transition, depression, anxiety, trauma, or complicated bereavement, hope is a decision you can choose to form the changes you wish to see. My ideal client is a client who is ready to make the changes they need to live a fuller more meaningful life. I utilize a client centered approach which connects clients to their unique strengths while helping them discover the best versions of themselves. As your therapist it is not lost on me what an incredible honor it is to hold space for people to prepare their mind, body, and soul for this journey. Positive change and growth hinge upon a trusting authentic client therapist relationship. I will help you explore patterns, thoughts and behaviors that are barriers to being your best self. Having worked 12 years in the field of trauma, crisis intervention, victim advocacy, and severely mentally ill adults I have witnessed the best and worst of the human condition. I am privileged to walk beside you on your way to a sustainable path to healing.
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Guadalupe Rios
I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I look forward to supporting you in that process.
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Antonia Allison
I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience as a clinician. I have a system for clients wanting to stop being so easily angered. 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.
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Shawn Polivoi
I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, 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!
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Jennifer Quirina
I am a clinical social worker licensed in California and Illinois with 15 years of professional work experience. I believe that all good social work begins with a safe relationship where one can let down the defenses that protect us in our journey and find the transformation we seek. My personal and professional experience provides me with a particular interest in supporting individuals navigating the perinatal and new parenting time, adoptees, LGBT+ issues and major life changes. My treatment approach includes the use of tools from solution focused, cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapies. My priority is to help my clients feel heard, validated, and identify ways to manage the stressors that we all face.
![Click here to view Jacqueline Maffett's profile 1 This is Jacqueline Maffett's avatar and link to their profile](https://d3ez4in977nymc.cloudfront.net/avatars/0952f7ae875f1486191d9403438dde96.jpg)
Jacqueline Maffett
Welcome to BetterHelp! I am Jackie Maffett. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of California, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois, and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I received my Masters in Counseling Psychology from Northwestern University and have been in professional practice for almost 10 years. I have worked in a variety of settings, including private practice, community mental health centers, and schools. I provide counseling to adults, couples, and families, with a particular interest in treating those in early adulthood, teen years, and adolescence. I would consider myself an integrative therapist, meaning that I pull from different theoretical orientations based on my clients’ particular needs. I most often use cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques to help clients change intrusive thought patterns and develop healthy behaviors. I also use a psychodynamic focus to help my clients develop insight into the origin of their presenting problems. I am a solution-focused therapist and aim to foster practical change in my clients’ lives. I value my clients’ strengths and try to assist them in discovering those natural abilities to help bring about desired change. Finally, I whole-heartedly believe in the importance of creating a safe, trusting, and judgment-free space for my clients and I work to establish a warm, collaborative therapeutic relationship in which feedback is welcomed. My clinical interests include: depression, anxiety, stress management, early adulthood life-stage transitions, grief and loss, low self-esteem, relationship issues, conflict management, and divorce and blended families. I have a passion for working with adolescent and young adults, particularly issues related to identity formation, self-esteem, and relationships. You have taken the first step to make changes in your life by reaching out and that takes courage! I am glad you are here and I forward to supporting you in that process.
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Laurie Andrews
I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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. I meet my clients where they are, with compassion and unconditional positive regard. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and strength; I am happy for you and your action toward getting started!
![Click here to view Toya Carroll's profile 1 This is Toya Carroll's avatar and link to their profile](https://d3ez4in977nymc.cloudfront.net/avatars/42b10f5471a70a135b299855ae73034874999.jpg)
Toya Carroll
I am a Christian therapist licensed in California, Illinois and Missouri with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Richmond
Finding the best therapist close by in Richmond 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 Richmond 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 Richmond. 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 Richmond, 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 Richmond 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 Richmond 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 Richmond area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find Richmond 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 Richmond, elsewhere in Contra Costa, 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 Richmond 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 Richmond 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 Richmond 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 Richmond 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 Richmond online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Richmond, 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 Richmond 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 Richmond 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 Richmond 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 Richmond 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 Richmond 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 Richmond?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Richmond 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.
Richmond 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 Richmond 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 Richmond 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 94803 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 Richmond counselor?
Before seeing your Richmond 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 Richmond.
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 Richmond 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 Richmond 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 Richmond, 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.
Richmond 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 Richmond, California
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Richmond:
94530, 94801, 94802, 94803, 94804, 94805, 94806, 94807, 94808, 94850