Life can feel like a tidal wave. Those who are unprepared can be victim to the wave, being lost into the sea as it consumes them. Others may be more prepared and will surf the giant waves of life that come their way. A counselor based in San Clemente may be able to help you do the latter. 

San Clemente is known for its history of surfing. When life throws you a tidal wave, you can learn how to ride the wave regardless of its size. A counselor can be your surfing instructor who can give you the advice you need to take on life’s toughest waves. 

This is Julie Borden's avatar and link to their profile

Julie Borden

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been providing counseling for more than twenty years. I have a master's degree in Social Welfare and experience in a wide range of areas, including grief and loss, stress management, parenting challenges, depression, and communication in relationships. I know that making the decision to start therapy, and reaching out to find someone you can trust, is a big step, often one that people think about for a long time before they actually take it. As you take that step today, I would like to offer some ideas about where this journey could take you. From my work with clients over the years, and from my own personal experience as well, I have come to see the process of therapy as something like looking through a new window, one that allows you to see your life and situation more clearly. In all of the challenges we face, big and small, perspective is key. Each of us is looking at our situation from the inside, in the way we have become accustomed to looking at it. This view is often fogged up and blurry. We are so close to it that we can’t see the forest for the trees. Therapy is about getting distance and perspective. This can come through insight, recognizing relationship patterns and being open to changing them, and questioning long-held assumptions that you didn’t realize you had until someone calls your attention to them. But as important as this awareness is, it usually needs to be followed with concrete steps in order to result in true change. Baby steps at first – in my experience we often underestimate the big results that can come from the smallest shifts. As we experiment with new behaviors, we begin to see ourselves differently. One small success doing something you didn’t think you could do can result in a ripple effect of seeing possibilities that you never knew were there before, and that is where real growth happens. My goal is to help people live more authentically, live with intention, and make deliberate and conscious choices rather than following old patterns that they never before thought to question. These ideas have brought me to some of the most important light bulb moments in my own life, and it brings me great happiness to see the moment that someone else begins to see that they have a wider range of options than they ever realized. If it sounds like I might be a good fit for you, I look forward to getting to know you, hearing the unique story that is yours alone, and working as a team as you find the clarity, peace, and confidence that will lead you to a brighter future.

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Christy Crespin

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
34 years of experience

I am Christy Crespin, LCSW, licensed in California in 1995. I graduated from California State University, San Bernardino and obtained my license in clinical social work while working with families and children in the probation and foster care settings. I have over 30 years of experience working with adults in various settings including vocational rehabilitation, blindness, a forensic hospital setting, and families and foster care in a community mental health setting. I have worked through treatment modalities including Solution-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered, and motivational Interviewing. I strongly believe in the power of self-determination and that each of us is endowed with innate strength that we may need guidance to tap into, provided our avenues are explored, validated and empowered in a safe environment. Growth and change are difficult and it takes courage to step out in faith to discover who we are and that we can make changes so we live in balance at our optimal best. I hold the belief that each of us is a unique and precious child of the one who created us. Everyone is capable of working through difficulties to come out better on the other side, but at times we may need to summon the courage and strength to allow a therapist to assist. It takes being vulnerable and questioning our patterns to explore and embark on a path yet undiscovered, and I enjoy walking with others on their journey through life. I am a practicing Roman Catholic.

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Aldemar Martinez

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW,CCTP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
3 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), with 25 years of experience in the field of mental health. I also have a degree in Psychology, with I believe compliments my clinical and social work skills to formulate a more complete and wholistic approach to therapy. Additionally I am a Certified Trauma Professional, and use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as my primary theoretical approach to trauma. I believe that each individual brings into his/her therapy experience a unique set of skills, which I encourage to identify through Narrative Therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is another form of psychological treatment, which I often use with my clients to identify maladaptive behavioral patterns, and replace them with healthy habits to achieve a sense of healing. Finally I believe in the human connection., which is the power to positively influence one another. I welcome you and commend you for taking charge of your life through therapy!

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Dawniel Page

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigue
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, coping with life changes, & executive and professional coaching. 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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Carla Fort

Offering therapy in CA
License: NCC, CRC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

You're here! Right here, right now! You may not be there yet, but you have already taken a step towards facing challenges with a strength you never knew you had. Besides, it doesn't hurt to get a little assistance on the way. I'm here to help you. Let me tell you something. Nothing is as remarkable as seeing positive change in my client! Helping you make even the smallest steps towards your goal every day brings me joy and I like to do these silly dances when I've noticed your progress. Even when they seem too small to notice, I'll notice! I can even tell a corny joke or two. You’ll be surprised how much a little positivity can help. I have been a counselor for almost a decade. I am a licensed professional counselor and a certified rehabilitation counselor with additional experience in helping individuals get back to work to attain the highest success possible after experiencing any life changing issues. I have helped people with almost everything you can think of. I have helped those with severe mental health concerns and those with mild ones. I have multicultural experience and have lived in and visited many different countries (experience does help!). I've learned a lot about cultural differences and appreciations. I respect the variation that we have as humans. I understand that there are times when struggles and challenges approach us and we need a little extra boost to help us work through it. I am here to help! When I counsel, my style is energetic, compassionate, and supportive. I praise your progressions, and I can show you how to be proud of your efforts and steps in the right direction. I am client-centered and I want to listen to you and be as helpful as is humanly possible. I am a firm believer in positive psychology, as I love highlighting your strengths! I love to empower my clients. I can't wait to meet you!

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Misty Perry

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, Anxiety
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Christine Wong

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
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, coping with grief and loss, & 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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This is Syed Shayan Mehdi's avatar and link to their profile

Syed Shayan Mehdi

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

I've had a spiritual near-death experience, lost my loving mother to Cancer, immigrated as a child, lived under an oppressive regime in the Middle East as a minority, experienced complex family dynamics and through it all still believe that we are all meant to shine our light in this world. You may be reading this while at your lowest point in life but don't worry, I'm here to guide you back to your true self ("Remember Who You Are"). I'm a compassionate therapist who believes in the transformative power of healing through a holistic approach. With a deep understanding of the mind-body-spirit connection, I will successfully guide you through your journey of inner peace, emotional well-being & personal growth. My therapeutic approach combines evidence-based practices with mindfulness techniques, allowing you to explore your inner child, cultivate self-awareness, and develop effective coping strategies to address challenges such as anxiety, trauma, and depression. What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you? I provide a safe & nurturing space where you can explore your inner child & develop a sense of inner peace. By cultivating mindfulness & awareness, you'll learn to observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment, gaining a greater understanding of your patterns and triggers. I firmly believe that true healing lies in self-discovery and the cultivation of one's inner wisdom. In our sessions, you will embark on a journey of self-exploration, guided by the principles of mindfulness and spirituality. Together, we'll uncover underlying beliefs, patterns, and traumas that may be contributing to your anxiety, trauma & depression. We'll create a therapeutic journey that honors your unique experiences and supports your transformation toward a more fulfilling & balanced life. What treatment methods and tools do you utilize? Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Attachment-based Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Existential Family Systems Forensic Psychology Integrative Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Motivational Interviewing Person-Centered Positive Psychology Solution Focused Brief (SFBT) Strength-Based Trauma Focused Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths. I would say my ability to connect with you on a deep level & being able to carry your vulnerability where you feel heard & understood is my gift as I guide you & inspire you toward a solution to your life's problems. I'm grounded, spiritual & honor good values. I used to work in the Tech field so I'm aware of how "perfect" your life might feel to the outside world however chaotic things may be on the inside. I've provided therapy in prisons, schools, non-profits, government offices, hospitals, hospices & psychiatric institutions so my "well-rounded" experience prepares me for any issue you may present to me. My name means "Light" so my greatest gift to you is us shedding a 'light' on your problems and finding compassionate solutions to help you overcome all your challenges in life.

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Pedro Gomez Carranza

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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.

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This is Pablo Orozco-Castro's avatar and link to their profile

Pablo Orozco-Castro

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
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, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find counseling in San Clemente

Finding the best therapist close by in San Clemente 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 Clemente. 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 Clemente, 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 Clemente 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 Clemente 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 Clemente, elsewhere in Orange, 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 Clemente area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed San Clemente 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 Clemente 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 Clemente 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 Clemente, 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 Clemente 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 Clemente 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 Clemente 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 Clemente 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 Clemente 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 92672 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 Clemente 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 Clemente 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 Clemente, 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 Clemente 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 Clemente.

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

92672, 92673, 92674

Popular cities near San Clemente, CA

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