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.

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Psychologist Henry "Jay" Swedlaw providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Henry "Jay" Swedlaw

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 22321, NH LCMHC 2837
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Texas, Florida, California, Wyoming, New Mexico, New Hampshire, and Arizona with 10 years of experience on this platform, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on creating affirming, compassionate spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals, young adults, and those experiencing relationship challenges, anxiety, and personal growth obstacles. My therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique journey. I offer expertise in addressing depression, stress, social anxiety, workplace dynamics, and interpersonal communication. With a commitment to inclusive, non-judgmental care, I support clients exploring sexuality, gender identity, relationship structures, and personal empowerment. Drawing from two decades of clinical experience, I help individuals develop resilience, self-understanding, and meaningful strategies for emotional wellness. Whether you're confronting trauma, relationship transitions, or seeking deeper self-acceptance, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with genuine empathy and professional guidance.

Psychologist Dr. Frederick  Smoot providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Dr. Frederick Smoot

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 12959
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years offering treatment

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (CA #12959) with over 15 years of experience counseling/ accompanying persons through difficult parts of their life-journeys. I have worked with a wide range of concerns including Isolation. loneliness, fearfulness, anxiety, intimacy/relationship issues, parenting and career challenges, addiction, physical and emotional abuse and life transitions. My counseling style is warm, curious and appropriately truth-telling.. I treat others with respect and consistent presence. I work to sustain and shame-free context that empowers persons to (re)claim their lies and future with dignity. I am an accompanist, using therapeutic tools gathered from several clinical approaches. I am relational, client centered, mindful, and strategic. I believe that direction and goals for therapy are shaped together with the client. We will tailor a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Your willingness to reach out for support shows your courage and desire for a better future. I encourage you to take this step, accompanied and supported I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Dr. Priscilla Sobremonte providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Dr. Priscilla Sobremonte

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 22308
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
24 years offering treatment

I served in the United States Air Force for 11 years. Graduated with MSW became a LCSW began working with severely emotionally disturbed children. Continued to work with a county mental health department with an agreement with juvenile justice. In this capacity worked with children, adolescence, families, and adolescents who were placed in juvenile hall. Worked in the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation as a Psychiatric Clinical Social Worker for many years with both male and female inmates, inpatient, outpatient and special units for chronic severe mental illness. Worked at Kaiser Permanente as a therapist with children and families, and crisis intake. Work experience with Veterans Health Care as a medical social worker supervisor and program coordinator. Began private practice in 2006 utilizing a client centered approach to determine treatment plan with the client (Cognitive Behavioral, Trauma Focused, Solution Focused, Relationship and family issues). Treatment approach is based on client's needs and preferences in a collaborate manner. *****PLEASE NOTE I am note able to write letters to employers for time off and or disability verification.****** AUTHOR Therapeutic Journaling: Making Sense of My Life, put together for clients who have struggled to make sense of life experiences this is based on Narrative Journaling.

Psychologist Dr. Devora Lockton providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Dr. Devora Lockton

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist 10359
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
40 years offering treatment

I am a psychologist, licensed in California with over 40 years of experience. I have worked with people with a wide range of concerns and challenges including, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues, and concerns of aging , and partner loss. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I combine cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic therapy along with common sense and work to assist your own unique and specific needs. It takes courage to acknowledge that you can use some help in facing your concerns. I am here to support and empower you to do so.

Psychologist Leleya Khachikyan Malyan providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Leleya Khachikyan Malyan

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 127670
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 Rochelle  Smith providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Rochelle Smith

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 94178
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
12 years offering treatment

Hello, I am a Licensed family and marriage therapist licensed in California with over 11 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, Bipolar, ADHD and addiction. I have also helped many people who have experienced various types of childhood and adult trauma. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in labels or victim shaming. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, Client-Centered, psychodynamic and EMDR therapy. I will work to tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Carlton Hemphill providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Carlton Hemphill

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC LPCC21526, AZ LPC LPC-24496
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemADHD
7 years offering treatment

I work with adults in their 20s and 30s who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward. Many face the challenges of neurodivergence like Autism or ADHD, along with the anxiety or life transitions that often come with it. I also support gay and queer individuals navigating identity, self-esteem, and relationship issues. I also work with Pure-O OCD using Inference-based CBT (I-CBT), an approach that's still hard to find in virtual care. My approach is insight-driven. Before we reach for techniques, I want to understand what's happening underneath, then we decide together which tools actually fit you. I don't see your identity as something to fix.

Psychologist Christine Piddington providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Christine Piddington

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 69521
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
11 years offering treatment

Hello! I'm a California-licensed therapist with 11 years of professional experience dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges. My passion and deep expertise lie in coping with grief and loss, profoundly shaped by my background as a hospice social worker. I understand the unique complexities that come with navigating profound loss. For the past 7.5 years, I've worked exclusively via remote sessions, providing comprehensive support to clients across California. I'm here to help you with a wide range of concerns, including: Stress & Anxiety Family Conflicts Trauma & Abuse Grief & Loss (specialty area) Depression Beyond these, I bring a strong background in client advocacy, stemming from my two years in the Peace Corps in Belize advocating for those with HIV/AIDS, and my broader work championing the rights of underprivileged communities. This includes experience with disability leave in the workplace and securing Emotional Support Animals (ESA) in housing. My diverse journey also includes experience in prison and hospital settings, enriching my understanding of varied client needs. I believe you are the expert of your own story and possess immense strengths. Taking the first step towards a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and I am here to support you in that process. While I'm currently based in Alaska and pursuing licensure here, I maintain my active California license and am committed to helping you on your healing journey.

Psychologist Maria Ward providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Maria Ward

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 98143
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
13 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions with compassion and unconditional regard. I specialize in working with diverse populations, offering culturally responsive care that honors each person's unique experiences. My approach is deeply empathetic, focusing on areas such as self-love, communication, social connections, and personal growth. I'm particularly committed to supporting people of various backgrounds, with respect, compassion, self love, acceptance, validation which are universal traits. The journey of healing is for anyone who whishes to walk the path, I will be there for you, I am here to support you, meet you where you need me to meet you. My therapeutic style integrates evidence-based practices to help clients develop resilience, heal from past wounds, and cultivate meaningful life strategies. Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, relationship dynamics, or personal transformation, I'm dedicated to walking alongside, with genuine understanding and professional guidance. Never under estimate your own personal growth, value your unique qualities, I am here to support you with acceptance and unconditional regard and respect of your needs. I believe in creating a safe, affirming space where you can explore your experiences, validate your own reality, integrate experiences that might had been put to the side and reconnect with your inherent strengths. Together, we'll work collaboratively to support your emotional well-being and personal empowerment. Remember, I am here for you, this place is for you and you alone.

Psychologist Victoria Lloyd providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Victoria Lloyd

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 9661
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with a decade of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and find meaningful connection while addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to therapy, particularly committed to serving Black and LGBTQ+ communities. My work honors each person's unique journey, creating a supportive space where individuals can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and rediscover their inner strength. My therapeutic approach blends evidence-based practices with a holistic understanding of individual experiences. I'm especially passionate about helping clients build resilience, enhance self-esteem, and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you're struggling with isolation, seeking life purpose, or working through significant changes, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.

Psychologist Ryan Jordan providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Ryan Jordan

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 17537
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
4 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Dr. Bobbie Paul providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Dr. Bobbie Paul

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 29201
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
32 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 32 years of professional work experience. I have training and experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, depression and coping with life changes. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am confident we can develop the necessary tools so you can prevail over your current challenges and achieve your goals. If you wish to know more about my approach to therapy visit my website at https://www.bobbiejpaul.com.

Psychologist Fabiola Rodriguez providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Fabiola Rodriguez

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 163527
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

I'm Dr. Fabiola Rodriguez, Psy.D, LMFT, dedicated to supporting individuals through life's challenges with compassion and cultural awareness. I bring extensive experience working with clients navigating stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, parenting struggles, self-esteem issues, and major life transitions for the last 8 years. My approach is collaborative and person-centered. I believe in meeting you where you are and working together to build practical coping strategies that fit your unique circumstances. I'm committed to creating a safe, affirming space where you feel heard and respected. I'm honored to work with clients from diverse backgrounds and understand the importance of culturally responsive care. Whether you're facing overwhelming stress, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, or simply seeking support during a time of change, I'm here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Taking the first step toward therapy takes courage, and I'm truly grateful you're considering this journey. I look forward to supporting you.

Psychologist Keyla Decos providing different types of therapy in San Luis Obispo

Keyla Decos

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 112463
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

I'm a therapist with a decade of experience supporting individuals through some of life's most challenging moments. I specialize in helping people navigate depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, grief, and concerns around self-esteem. I also work with clients exploring communication patterns, life purpose, social anxiety, guilt and shame, and posttraumatic stress. My approach is grounded in compassion and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your experiences at your own pace. Whether you're working through past trauma, managing mood challenges, or seeking clarity about your direction in life, I'm here to support your journey toward healing and growth. I'm honored by the trust my clients place in me, and I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine care and understanding.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in San Luis Obispo, California

Finding a therapist near you in San Luis Obispo, California starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you. 

The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In California, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.

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 can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.

Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In California, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.

Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in California

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. 

You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.

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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

Is online therapy effective?

Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.

How quickly can I start therapy?

You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.

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 discreet?

Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.

Find a Therapist in San Luis Obispo, California

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving San Luis Obispo and the surrounding CA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

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