In life, it can feel like you need some healing. A place for you to heal from your depression, or to heal from all the unanswered questions that come with your life. No matter where you go, however, it feels like no one can heal you. There is a person who can help, and that is a counselor in San Rafael. 

San Rafael is named after the angel of healing. While calling upon a healing angel can be a challenge, a counselor can help you in this mortal world. However, they help those who can help themselves and follow their plans. Talk to one today and see how they can help.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Grief, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 13

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 10 years of experience. I have worked clients across the life span; my experience ranges from toddlers to young adults in foster care, school aged kids, college student, couples, families, homeless and the elderly population. I have worked with a wide range of client concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, self-esteem, and grief and loss issues just to name a few. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Parenting issues, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 17

Hello! My name is Liesal Miller and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the states of California and Texas. With over 13 years of experience, I have worked with children, adults, and families from a variety of settings including home healthcare, community mental health, addiction treatment, and private practice. My areas of specialization and interest include managing anxiety and depression, parent training, parent-child relationship challenges, women’s issues, young adult life, and challenges of special needs youth. Knowing the courage it takes ...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Parenting issues, Self esteem, Career difficulties
Years of Experience: 20

I have over 30 years of experience in mental health and have been licensed in the states of California; Oregon and Washington. I possess a Master of Addiction Counseling and have supervised 5 mental health and addictions treatment programs in addition to my experience with counseling. My diverse professional background includes experience in residential; in-patient psychiatric hospitalization in two countries (United States and United Kingdom); school based; military; forensic and community-based counseling services. In addition to this, I possess an extensive bac...

Specialties: Grief, Self esteem, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 7

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California and Colorado. I received specialized training as a fellow at Stanford Children’s and Adult Hospitals. I understand that starting therapy can be daunting, but I am here to listen to my client’s needs without judgement and incorporate your goals to establish a holistic treatment plan to address your individual situation. My counseling style revolves around authenticity and genuine interaction. Treatment begins with mutual respect, compassion, and where you currently are in your life. My approach combines A...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Anger management, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Years of Experience: 6

I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California and Arizona with over 5 years of experience working as a therapist for a government agency. I have worked with clients with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, personality issues, and relationship challenges. My approach involves evidence based treatment and solution focused. I will individualize sessions and a treatment plan with your unique goals we explore together. I look forward to meeting you and being a part of this season in your life.

Specialties: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Eating disorders, Self esteem
Years of Experience: 20

Welcome. You have taken the first step in healing by simply Showing Up and I would be honored to guide you in your healing. My philosophy is rooted in five foundational aspects. The first is Compassionate Curiosity, question everything. The second is Angeles Arrien’s, “The Four-Fold Way” - Show Up, Pay Attention, Tell the Truth (without judgement), and Don’t Be Attached to the Results. The third is Mindfulness and Beginner’s Mind, particularly in observing and questioning our automatic thoughts and beliefs. The fourth is, each of us is on our own journey, and...

Specialties: Relationship issues, Intimacy-related issues, ADHD
Years of Experience: 4

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy related issues, & concentration, memory and focus (ADHD). 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 also work with specific populations including youth, TAY, teens, and people of color. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 10

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with depression. 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!

Specialties: Addictions, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Anger management
Years of Experience: 20

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Anger management, Depression
Years of Experience: 40

I am licensed in California with 40 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.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Intimacy-related issues, Self esteem
Years of Experience: 9

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. 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!

Specialties: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Parenting issues, Self esteem, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 10

Hi there and welcome. My name is Tammy and I am a California licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I find verbal processing invaluable when sorting out life's challenges, making decisions and setting goals. I take an eclectic approach to counseling; focusing on self-awareness, acceptance, purposefulness, growth and personal development. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family & parenting, marriage, depression and anxiety. I hope our work together will edify, encourage and bring comfort to your heart. I look forward to meetin...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Grief, Parenting issues, Self esteem, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 7

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, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 5

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both California and Texas with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, and depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I have genuine unconditional positive regard for others and am very empathic towards life's struggles. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for ge...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 13

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with many different stressors and disorders including: stress and anxiety, relationship or couples issues, self esteem, depression, trauma, parenting and family issues. 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!

How To Find Counseling In Your Area

Finding the right therapist close by in San Rafael can feel intimidating. Once you narrow your search for a counselor near the San Rafael area, you're closer to finding providers accepting new clients.

First, research what type of therapy you'd like to pursue before finding a therapist or psychologist. You might be interested in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, marriage and family therapy, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits. If you're still unsure, consider asking your prospective counselors which methods they practice.

When you're ready to search for a counselor in San Rafael, scroll through the options. Next, consider what type of therapy you'd like your counselor to be most experienced with. Finally, choose a provider located near you in the city of San Rafael or elsewhere in Marin or the state of California.

Mental health professionals working through their own practice or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships and communication skills, working through life's obstacles, or changing negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a listening ear and validation. Verified San Rafael counselors can provide licensed marriage and compassionate counseling, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

How Do Costs Of Conventional Counseling Compare To BetterHelp With A San Rafael Counselor?

Forbes reports that the average price of an in-person therapy session with a counselor in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in San Rafael 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 in San Rafael: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists in San Rafael: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist in San Rafael: $100
  • Therapy with a mental health counselor in San Rafael: $80

Some counselors 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 counselors serving the city of San Rafael and elsewhere throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with counselor sessions ranging from $60 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks).

How Does Working With A Counselor On BetterHelp Work?

It's important to note that these counselors treat clients online. Online providers, including the US-based providers above, can work with people like you in or around San Rafael virtually. You do not have to commute to a counselor's office to meet with one of these counselors.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, receive worksheets, and sign up for mental health webinars. Additionally, the BetterHelp app offers a journaling feature.

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy with a counselor. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists specializing in behavioral health and relationships. You can also try a provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. Look through the available counselors above and consider which might work for you. Professionals on BetterHelp specialize in several mental health issues and modalities. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

San Rafael has many professionals who provide client-centered individual counseling in person and through online therapy. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the US. Many individuals gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy. In San Rafael, therapy can be easily to use and a click away.

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 they may struggle to provide objective guidance. Counselors are also professionals trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist may support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health or life concerns. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another benefit of therapy with a licensed counselor is having a 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 Rafael counselor 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 can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With almost one million people in San Rafael, CA, finding a counselor can be costly, and they may be booked out with clients. Through the list of counselors above and others through BetterHelp, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching for a nearby psychotherapist close to 94913 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 in San Rafael can be a great option.

How Should I Prepare For My First Session With A San Rafael Counselor? 

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading about the counseling process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist. 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 why you're attending therapy.

Should I See A Counselor 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 counselors often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend counseling. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor 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 with a counselor.

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 Crying In Therapy A Breakthrough?

Crying can be a breakthrough for some individuals who struggle to express emotions. Others might find that they often cry during sessions with their counselor. Crying can be normal and healthy, so whether you cry or not may be a personal aspect of sessions.

Is Mental Health Care Worth It?

We may all be on different paths in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, counselors are trained to meet you where you're at. Counseling can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy each year, showing it's a popular option and may be often effective when working with a licensed counselor.

Do Therapists Judge You? 

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. Their job as your counselor is to support you and make you feel safe and respected. 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 to learn more about BetterHelp therapists to understand the services available to you clearly. If you have any questions, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online counseling, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched with a counselor 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:

There are all kinds of therapists in the San Rafael area, including:

  • CBT in San Rafael
  • DBT in San Rafael
  • Substance use therapy in San Rafael
  • Couples therapy in San Rafael

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

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

94901, 94903, 94913, 94915

Popular Cities Near San Rafael, CA

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