San Anselmo’s most prominent resident has been George Lucas, creator of Star Wars. Star Wars is an epic battle of wit, skill and luck over the course of several full length films. Life can also seem like an epic battle, one that rages inside of ourselves while we struggle to cope. If you are facing your own internal battle, there is help available to you.

Counselors in the San Anselmo area are standing by to offer their support to help you fight your own personal battles. Whether the battle is raging within or is caused by external forces, therapists can help. Contact a counselor today.

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Michelle Quintanilla

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSleeping disordersDepressionADHD
3 years of experience

Hi! My name is Michelle Quintanilla and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have seven years of experience as a therapist in the Community Mental Health model. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University San Diego. My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, mood disorder, high risk behavior, trauma, ADHD, behavioral issues and relationship issues. I have experience working with kids, adolescents, and adults. My therapeutical approach can be described as client centered, evidence based, and goal oriented. I strongly believe that therapeutic rapport is essential in order to make you feel safe and comfortable. I like to meet you where you are at and progress at your own pace. I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational interviewing to help you set goals and feel empowered once you have met your goals. As you are looking for a therapist that can help you overcome the challenges that you are facing at the moment, I would like to offer you a warm and non-judgemental environment were we can work together to achieve all your therapeutical goals. Allow me to walk by your side and guide you through this process.

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Janel Guinane

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

My career in the helping professions started in 1997 at a residential program in San Francisco working with adults with substance use issues and co-occurring mental health disorders. At this time, one did not need a degree in substance use counseling to work in this area and I was able to gain a great deal of experience. This launched a long road of determination to attain a Bachelor's degree in Social Work in 2008 and then a Master's in Social Work in 2010. Throughout my educational years and afterward, I worked with several different populations such as children, teens, TAY, former foster youth, homeless youth, adults with mental illness, homeless adults, and those arrested for alcohol and/or drug related offenses. I am currently a Program Manager of a Clinic that assesses individuals with mental health disorders for County treatment services as well as a homeless day respite center that connects unhoused persons with housing, food, healthcare, etc. My treatment approach is one that is Client-Centered, Strength's-Based, and Humanistic. I utilize Motivational Interviewing to gain knowledge into my Client's perspective and objectives. I believe that every person in an expert in their own life and that I act only as a guide and collaborator to help my clients reach their goals and enrich their lives. I have had experiences working with those with depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, eating disorders, PTSD, schizophrenia and various other conditions. My goal is to work with the client on their goals and not to give advice, which I find is less than effective. Many times individuals already know what they need and are seeking guidance, clarity, and the care of someone to be authentic and responsive to those needs.

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Dr. Gail Masterson

Offering therapy in CA
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

Are you finding it difficult to navigate these uncertain times or feel that you’ve lost your way? Are you on your path, but progress is thwarted by circumstances not of your own making or beyond your control? Sometimes muddling through is the best any of us can do or expect of ourselves. Perhaps the uncertainty we are all facing is a blessing in disguise, because with uncertainty comes opportunity. If you’d like to explore what opportunities you have to find your footing or get things moving, sharing your story is the first step. With over 25 years experience practicing psychotherapy and having gone where I didn’t know I was going, I understand life’s challenges and the possibility for a more creative and meaningful life by venturing into unknown territory. My belief is that you know what you need to do to improve your life and with coaching and questioning you are capable of finding the best solutions. I have my BA in Humanities, MA in Marriage Family Therapy, PhD in Psychology, and am licensed in California as a Marriage Family Therapist. I have had extensive experience with teletherapy, having worked with David Viscott, MD, one of the first psychotherapists to have a nationally syndicated talk radio show, who had clients from all over the country call into the Viscott Center for Natural Therapy where our approach was brief solution oriented therapy. I also had extended, in-depth psychotherapy as part of my training and beyond because of my interest in exploring the self. I’m familiar and comfortable with both short and longer term therapy. I’ve worked with couples, families, and individuals ranging from teenage years to older adults at the end of their lives. I understand taking the first step can be difficult. I also know you can start before you’re ready! I’m here to listen, encourage, support, and collaborate with you until the correct path becomes clear.

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Amy Klein Duane

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

Hi. My name is Amy Klein Duane, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker in the state of California. I have extensive experience working with various populations of all ages: I spent many years focused on the psychology of child development and challenges faced in teenage years and adulthood. I have expertise in working with people struggling with anxiety disorders; specifically selective mutism and social anxiety. I also have experience working with chronic mental illness in a day treatment program. In addition, I have worked extensively with aging and independence issues and bereavement and grief counseling. I am a firm believer in short term and solution based therapy when appropriate: I often integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Short Term Psychodynamic therapy (although I customize my practice based on a client's needs). I believe in teaching coping skills while using Positive Psychotherapy to the help the client use their own strengths to overcome difficulties. I am supportive, observant, compassionate, and an attentive listener.

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Jennifer Dunn

Offering therapy in CA
License: M.S,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dawn Chandler

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT,CDC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
35 years of experience

You can read more about my background, education, experience, and therapy approach by clicking on my name above our messages. You are one step closer to keeping that promise to yourself about gaining control of your unwanted patterns or behaviors. Every client has a story to tell and specific needs that bring them to therapy. Together we will develop and focus on understanding the forces that drive the need for those patterns or behaviors. Everyone has struggles in their life and everyone needs help along the way. I hold an MS in Counseling Psychology, Addiction Specialist, and CCTP, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I myself have 35 years of recovery and have 30 years working in the field of counseling, Trauma, and Addiction. I use a collective approach which means I draw from all forms of therapy. I match and adjust to my client's needs. My passion in life is to instill hope in my clients that they may reach their goals of change. I enjoy working with individuals, families, and groups that are motivated towards regaining balance and change in one's life. Together we will develop strategies and coping skills to help you reach emotional and physical freedom. I am compassionate about this work and feel I was called to do this work and to help others experience the world as an individual and in a collective way.

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Cecilia Bueno

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
23 years of experience

Let’s be real. Everyone has problems, and no life is devoid of problems. Perhaps this will be your time to figure it out. What can be done to reduce the quantity of your troubles.? I am here to support, bear witness to, & empower you to do just that. How, you may ask? Let’s start with my age. 60 years old. You may be shocked that I actually told you my age, but I think of it a positive observation. I have been through many valleys and stood on mountaintops. I have raised a family. I have been divorced. I have been heartbroken. I have felt extreme joy. Just like you, I am an individual seeking to understand, and teach individuals the basic tenets of healing. I combine a variety of well researched, and clinically proven therapies such as Internal Family Systems, EMDR, person centered psychotherapy, somatic psychology, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Attachment Theory. If you like we may discuss each, and then formulate a plan forward. However, if you are confident that you know the way forward, yet really could use someone who will listen and not offer instruction/recommendations, then I am still here for you. My education consists of : BA / Addiction studies; MA /Psychology; MA /Somatic Psychology; Ph.D. / Philosophy & Depth Psychology & chemical dependency counselor. I am licensed in the state of TX and CA as an MFT, and in TX as an LCDC. Lastly, I am a certified Ketamine integration coach. If you have received Ketamine therapy and have NOT had the opportunity to integrate your experience, I will assist you in that growth process. I have experience in helping clients overcome the impact of stress and anxiety. I also assist people in discovering what can be done about their addiction, unproductive coping mechanisms, trauma, abuse, and difficulties connecting deeply with those you love. Lastly, my healing philosophy is that Jesus Christ is the healer. He uses people, so this is why I became a psychotherapist. I have no greater privilege, than witnessing firsthand, how God heals people. The first step is the hardest, because it involves showing up in a space that is unknown. Take the chance. Do it for yourself and see what happens.

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Natalie Hendricks

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 8 years' of professional work experience. I have woked primarily with children, teens and young adults in the areas of anxiety, depression and self-esteem. I am personable and enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to create an open and safe enviornment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I will work with you to develop healthy perceptions of yourself for a peaceful and complete life. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, but know I am here to help you. I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dr. Mark Charles

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed psychologist in California with 8 years of professional experience. I have assisted clients with managing or overcoming a variety of mental wellness challenges, including stress and anxiety & depression. My clients and I collaborate to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Some of my own personal heroes have been former clients who through courage, resilience, and therapeutic support pulled themselves out of an unsatisfactory situation and in 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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Benjamin Shuts

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am currently licensed in California and Washington. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. 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. What would be your self-kindness statement? What have you been doing for self-care lately?

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How to find counseling in San Anselmo

Finding the best therapist close by in San Anselmo 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in San Anselmo. 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 San Anselmo, 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. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in San Anselmo or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. 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 San Anselmo area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find 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 San Anselmo, elsewhere in Marin, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the San Anselmo area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed San Anselmo 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 San Anselmo 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 San Anselmo 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 BetterHelp or clinicians 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).

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

Therapists in San Anselmo, 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a 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, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in San Anselmo 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 San Anselmo helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified San Anselmo 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:

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 San Anselmo 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?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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.

A psychologist 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 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 San Anselmo 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 lot of people in CA, providers 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 94960 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a San Anselmo counselor?

Before seeing your 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. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist 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. A San Anselmo 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 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 San Anselmo, 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.

San Anselmo 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?

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

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 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 San Anselmo.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in San Anselmo:

94960, 94979

Popular cities near San Anselmo, CA

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