In San Luis Obispo, CA, individuals seeking support for a range of mental health needs—including low self esteem, family conflict, and feeling stuck—can find a variety of therapeutic services. Art therapy and individual counseling are particularly popular among college students and other residents who are navigating the complexities of college life and beyond.

Located in San Luis Obispo County, local therapists are known for creating a supportive environment where clients can explore issues related to their past experiences and current life situations. These services aim to foster a fulfilling life by addressing the unique challenges each individual faces, promoting well being and personal growth.

Therapists in San Luis Obispo utilize a range of approaches to help their clients gain insights and develop coping strategies that can transform their approach to daily challenges. The goal is to empower individuals to make meaningful changes that resonate throughout all areas of their lives.

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

Read more
Psychologist Jeanette Merchant providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Jeanette Merchant

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 36010, OR LMFT T1882
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
27 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California and Oregon with 27 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!

Psychologist Tina Logan providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Tina Logan

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 46136
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementADHD
12 years offering treatment

Tina A Logan Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT Verified by Psychology Today I provide video and phone sessions. Worries, nervousness and anxiety can be over-whelming. Uncertainty, during unknown times can make us anxious and depressed. I’m here to help. I am blessed to have the opportunity to help many of you during these unprecedented times. I am interactive, giving you suggestions, options, tools and hope for your future. My style is relaxed, supportive, encouraging, compassionate, caring and positive. I am non-judgmental and culturally diverse. I have experience working with children, families, adults and couples. I specialize with trauma, grief & loss, relationship issues & personal, work, parenting, family and friends. Most recently, I am working with a mom that is challenged in working from home while caring for children and home. I’ve worked with several different diagnosis and issues. I utilize the cognitive- behavioral, evidence based therapeutic approach to manage & teach behaviors and new skills. I speak, write and understand some Spanish. I would like the opportunity to meet with you and begin to understand your needs. I look forward to our first session, in your journey to a new chapter that we will write together. T

Psychologist Alexander "Alex" Dannin providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Alexander "Alex" Dannin

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 120576
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
10 years offering treatment

Greetings! It’s my passion and pleasure to support individuals who are looking to make meaningful changes in their life. I believe that our natural state is one of health and balance—feeling at peace, worthy, and capable. Life’s negative experiences can temporarily disrupt this state, leading to negative feelings and emotions. We intuitively sense something is off through our 'negative' emotions such as anger, sadness, or fear. I view all feelings as inherently neutral; they are signals indicating whether we are in or out of alignment with our true selves. Emotions don’t exist in isolation—they serve as guides, bringing our attention to what we believe about ourselves and the situations we encounter. My role is to identify the beliefs underlying these emotions and to help you make the necessary changes in thoughts, behaviors, and actions to restore balance and reconnect with your natural state. In terms of modalities, I draw from a range of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Client-Centered Therapy. I’m flexible and adapt my methods to suit each client’s unique needs, rather than fitting clients into a predefined model. I also incorporate principles of Human Design into my practice, using this unique system to provide additional insights into personal strengths, challenges, and life patterns, enhancing the therapeutic process. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in San Diego, California, with eight years of experience. I have worked with diverse populations including active-duty military, first responders, corporate professionals, retirees, young adults, and the homeless. Before transitioning to mental health, I worked in various corporate roles in IT and finance. Following my passion, I changed careers to support others on their journey to well-being.

Psychologist Russell Pippin providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Russell Pippin

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 40133
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
30 years offering treatment

Welcome. My name is Russell Pippin. I am living and working in California as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have over 30 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings from Private Practice to working at a County Behavioral Health Agency to working as a clinical Supervisor for an agency that provides school systems with mental health services. I have a deep abiding faith in God that has grown over the past 50 years. That faith has led me to my calling to help empower, heal, and discover what is best in each person and commission each to live their best life. It is my belief that by providing a safe authentic and compassionate clinical setting we can work together to achieve your goals. Please contact me at your earliest convenience. I look forward to hearing from you. Russell Pippin LMFT EDUCATION Bachelor’s degree Simpson Bible College San Francisco Graduated in 1982 Major in Christian Education Master’s degree Fresno State University Fresno Graduated in 1994 Major in Counseling-Marriage, Family and Child Counseling SPECIALTIES: Stress, Anxiety Self esteem Depression Coping with Life Changes Anger Management Communication problems- Imago therapy certificated Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. EMDR level II trained since 2007 CLINICAL APPROACHES Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy EMDR Therapy Solution Focused Therapy Imago-Couples Therapy Years of Experience 30 LANGUAGE English LICENSING LMFT40133

Psychologist Eileen Maxwel providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Eileen Maxwel

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 50173
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with depression. 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!

Psychologist Andrea Plate providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Andrea Plate

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 22904
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California, with 20 years of professional work experience. For nearly 15 years I ran a residential substance abuse treatment program within the West Los Angeles Department of Veterans Affairs, serving those suffering from homelessness and chronic mental illness. Now working with individuals in the population at large, I do my best to help clients cope with: anxiety, personal and professional setbacks, addiction, major life changes, relationship conflicts and career concerns. I also refine and enhance my practice through teaching social welfare and addiction at a major West Los Angeles university. 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.

Psychologist Dr. Virginia Christophe providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Dr. Virginia Christophe

Clinician
License Type(s): AZ LPC LPC-22925, CA LPCC 18211
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
36 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Texas with over three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My approach centers on helping clients navigate issues like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I bring deep expertise in addressing women's issues, workplace challenges, and the unique emotional landscapes of midlife and young adulthood. My practice is rooted in understanding multicultural experiences and providing compassionate, nuanced support across diverse backgrounds. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, overcome isolation, and rediscover life purpose. I'm particularly skilled at supporting individuals through difficult experiences like divorce, caregiver stress, chronic health challenges, and family dynamics. I believe in creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, heal from past wounds, and develop healthier patterns of thinking and relating. My goal is to empower you to build resilience, find meaning, and create positive change in your life.

Psychologist Jasmine Ortiz providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Jasmine Ortiz

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 143363
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
15 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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. I am also Bilingual in English and Spanish.

Psychologist Laurentara Weinman providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Laurentara Weinman

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 146164
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years offering treatment

You have taken the first step in seeking to overcome the things that challenge you in your life and that takes courage. And I am here to support you in that process. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with six years of professional experience. I specialize in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ and related issues, and depression. I will listen carefully to you to understand your issues, not only on a conscious level, but on a subconscious level as well. In that way, I will have a deeper understanding of the change you desire in your life. I will approach you with compassion and understanding and will approach your issues with no shame, blame or criticism. My hope would be that you find our sessions to be meaningful, effective, and rewarding, leading to a path for a more peaceful, productive, and joyful life.

Psychologist Alexandra "Lexy" Spett providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Alexandra "Lexy" Spett

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

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

Psychologist Cristina Dawes providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Cristina Dawes

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 45948
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoaching
25 years offering treatment

Hello and thanks for reaching out! I have been practicing in California with 25 years of work experience, of which 17 have been licensed. I specifically trained and have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, depression, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. 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!

Psychologist Mark Saverino providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Mark Saverino

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

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

Psychologist Esteban Avila providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Esteban Avila

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 59623
Mental Wellness Specialties: LGBTRelationship issuesGrief
13 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California and have 13 years of professional experience. I have experience helping clients with LGBTQ+ issues, relationship issues, and coping with grief. I also have experience working with people who have overcome loss. I believe you are the expert on your own story and possess many strengths that will help you overcome challenges. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and happy life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Dr. Michele Forte-Perry providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Dr. Michele Forte-Perry

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 135759, NJ LCSW 44SC05552800
Mental Wellness Specialties: Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with over two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional journey has been dedicated to helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and self-esteem issues. I understand that each person's path to healing is unique, and I approach therapy with deep compassion and personalized care. My therapeutic approach is rooted in creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. I draw from evidence-based practices to help individuals build resilience, understand their emotional patterns, and cultivate stronger, healthier relationships with themselves and others. Whether you're struggling with stress, processing past experiences, or seeking to enhance your overall emotional well-being, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy, expertise, and genuine care. Together, we can work towards understanding your strengths and creating positive, sustainable changes in your life.

Find a Therapist Near You in San Luis Obispo , California

Finding a licensed therapist near you in California can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in California, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in California (CA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across California, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across California with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

When searching for a therapist near me in California, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across California, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across California.

Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in California want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in California without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in California (CA)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in California

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

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in California do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

Finding therapy with a therapist in San Luis Obispo can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist