Daily stress, life transition, family conflict, and other challenges can contribute to decreased mental well-being for most of us at one time or another. There is no need to push through these times alone, as therapy can offer support as well as strategies for stress management, addressing anxiety, and improving relationships. 

When it comes to finding a therapist, San Leadro, CA may offer more options than many rural or suburban areas, but finding the right therapist can be more complicated than simply reaching out to the nearest clinical practice. There are a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches available within psychotherapy, and which will be most effective can depend on the challenges being addressed, as well as personal preference. While there is no lack of individual and group therapy practices in the San Francisco Bay area, there is no guarantee that what you are looking for will be available in your neighborhood. 

This is where online therapy can help. BetterHelp is an online platform that offers access to mental health professionals based in the San Leandro and San Lorenzo areas that work in a variety of specialties and have experience working with diverse populations. Whether you are seeking treatment for the effects of domestic violence, are interested in sex therapy, or are trying to overcome self-doubt, simply fill out an online questionnaire and BetterHelp will match you with the licensed clinical psychologist or therapist that meets your needs. 

Online therapy is a convenient solution for many, as well. With video chat, phone, and text messaging options, you can talk to your therapist from the comfort of your own home. If you live in the San Leandro or San Francisco Bay area and have been thinking about therapy, whether for the past few days or for over a decade, there is no better time to get started. Below is a list of online mental health providers in your area. Click on any profile to find out more about their licensure, experience, and to read reviews from people who have already benefited from the support of online therapy. 

This is Dina Velazquez's avatar and link to their profile

Dina Velazquez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, my name is Dina Velazquez and I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist currently living on the east coast. I have over ten years experience as a therapist, in both the Community Mental Health model and doing clinical assessments for a health insurance carrier. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling at Pacifica Graduate Institue in Carpinteria, CA. My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, and substance use issues. My approach is client centered while also incorporating the use of other skills including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, solution focused and some Cognitive Behavioral therapies. I feel that each of our experiences are unique, and may require different avenues to attain wellness. Also experienced in: Addictions , LGBT , Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Physical Disabilities, Coping with life changes

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This is Dr. syma ralston's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. syma ralston

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): PsyD,HSPP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am an experienced clinical psychologist who has worked with individual adults of all ages, with couples and with families. I have been a director of training and have educated doctoral level interns. I have supervised mental health professionals, worked as director of the Counseling Center at Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley, as Chief Clinician at Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley, and as a Supervising Psychologist at Walter Reed Medical Center. I have had a private practice throughout my career. I am especially interested in providing couples counseling and working with individuals who have have suffered trauma, whether in childhood or adulthood, whether as civilians or while in the military. I am open to treating people of all cultures, religions , races and sexual orientations. I use whichever approach works best for my clients, helping them achieve their goals.

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This is Dr. Stephen Scherer's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Stephen Scherer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersDepressionCoaching
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 18 years of experience as an individual practitioner. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, sleeping disorders, addictive behaviors, mood disorders, and problems with communication. I was a college-level instructor for ten years, and as such I have experience in communicating complex ideas in an understandable manner. My work is focused on Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), techniques useful for significant behavioral challenges. I am also versed in Behavior Analysis, which is helpful to address problematic habits and the establishment of new, more productive behaviors. If you feel that I might be of help for you, please reach out and we can discuss your needs further.

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This is Chelsy Duffer-Dunbar's avatar and link to their profile

Chelsy Duffer-Dunbar

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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This is Vanessa Brister's avatar and link to their profile

Vanessa Brister

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. 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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This is Leslie Libutti's avatar and link to their profile

Leslie Libutti

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that together we can clarify your goals, your strengths, and your coping skills. Sometimes, okay many times, we don't realize that we place obstacles in our own paths and through some deep thinking and listening they become clearer and clearer and sooner or later, disappear. Recognizing that you could benefit from guidance is the first step. It will be a challenge, and it may be frustrating or frightening or painful. It will also be joyful, funny and real. This is YOUR life and you are well worth it. I also utilize poetry therapy with some clients. I can incorporate poetry into our work together in order to help you better understand your feelings and yourself. It is a very powerful form of therapy.

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This is DonnaMaria O'Connor's avatar and link to their profile

DonnaMaria O'Connor

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementCoping with life changes
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed MFT (Marriage and Family Therapist) in the state of California. I have approximately 20 years of professional experience. My work has involved helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, divorce and co- parenting issues. 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. I feel my role is to help you identify and resolve your issues. My style is to create a safe environment and treat each client with empathy, acceptance and respect. Relationships require work and commitment. It takes courage to be open to change for a more fulfilling life and to take the first steps . I am here to support you in that process.

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This is Cheryl Hopkins's avatar and link to their profile

Cheryl Hopkins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
40 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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.

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This is Raquel Gaston's avatar and link to their profile

Raquel Gaston

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. 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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This is Juanita J Smith Whittington's avatar and link to their profile

Juanita J Smith Whittington

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Your life is a story of transition. I am a compassionate and experienced African American therapist with over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults. I am dedicated and committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking healing and personal growth. I believe in the power of therapy to empower individuals and promote mental health well-being. Whether you are facing challenges related to life transitions, relationships, or personal development, I am here to guide you towards self-discovery and resilience. Let's collaborate to create positive change in your life. In my work as a therapist, I primarily utilize a cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) approach, focusing on the connection between thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and aims to identify and modify unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior. I incorporate elements of mindfulness-based techniques to help clients develop greater self-awareness and acceptance. I have extensive experience working with a diverse range of clients, including individuals, couples, and families. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, depression, relationship issues, and navigating life stressors. I strive to create a professional and inviting therapeutic environment where clients can feel supported and empowered.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in San Leandro

Finding the best therapist close by in San Leandro 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 San Leandro 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 San Leandro. 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 Leandro, 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 San Leandro 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 San Leandro 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 San Leandro area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find San Leandro 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 Leandro, elsewhere in Alameda, 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 San Leandro 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 San Leandro 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 Leandro 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 Leandro 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 San Leandro online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in San Leandro, 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 San Leandro 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 San Leandro 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 Leandro 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 San Leandro 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 San Leandro 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 San Leandro?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a San Leandro 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.

San Leandro 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 San Leandro 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 Leandro 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 94622 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 San Leandro counselor?

Before seeing your San Leandro 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 San Leandro.

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 San Leandro 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 San Leandro 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 San Leandro, 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 Leandro 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 San Leandro, 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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of San Leandro.

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

94577, 94578, 94579, 94622

Popular cities near San Leandro, CA

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