Mental health care can be beneficial for almost anyone, for many different reasons. A therapist offers a supportive space and tools to deal with communication issues, learn healthy boundaries, manage stress, and facilitate personal growth. 

When it comes to finding a therapist, Santee, Ca may offer more options than surrounding rural areas, but finding the right therapist can be challenging, even in a city. One reason for this is that there are a large number of therapeutic approaches, and client centered therapy can mean finding the right approach for you. For example, a doctoral level therapist may practice right on your street, but they specialize in family therapy, and you want help with a mood disorder. What you want or need may not be available nearby. Some offices may not take your insurance, and don’t offer sliding scale fees. Others may have waiting lists, or may not be taking new patients at all. This is where online therapy can help.

BetterHelp is an online platform that gives you access to a wide variety of online-based therapists in Santee, CA with professional experience in a broad range of therapeutic approaches, and experience offering quality care to diverse populations. Whether you need an associate professional clinical counselor with experience in gender affirming care, or an associate marriage counselor that specializes in divorce, simply fill out an online questionnaire and BetterHelp will match you with the therapist that best meets your needs. And because a strong therapeutic alliance can be essential to success, if you need to change therapists you can do so at no additional cost. 

BetterHelp is also a convenient solution for many busy professionals, parents, and students. Online sessions fit easily into any schedule, and with video chat, phone, and text messaging options you can meet with your therapist from the comfort of your own home. 

If you live in the Southern California area and have been thinking about therapy for any reason, contact BetterHelp to get started. You can also check out the list of online-based therapists below for more information. 

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Psychologist Maria Biasiotto providing different types of therapy in Santee

Maria Biasiotto

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 49116
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
30 years offering treatment

My therapy style is warm, interactive, action orientated and focused. I have experience working with adults, both in Individual and Group Therapy for many years. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Spiritual/Religious, as well as cultural sensitivity is included in my approach. My approach combines humanistic, cognitive-behavioral/CBT, and brief solution focused therapy. I am here to meet your unique and specific needs. Clients that I have interacted with have included those with issues involving Self Esteem, Complex Trauma, MST, PTSD, CPTSD, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Substance Abuse, Sexual Trauma, and Domestic Violence and Behavioral issues. These clients over all have reported reduction in unwanted symptoms and improvement in quality of life. A quote I share here was from a client I had been seeing for about a year: "I did not think this could help and one day I realized that it really was helping and I never believed it could." "The Longest journey BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP." My Masters is in psychology and I hold a License as a Family Therapist, LMFT. I have a RN and I am Certified in Behavioral Health by the ANCC, RN-BC. Please feel free to ask any questions about my experience, that may be of a help for you.

Psychologist Patricia Riley providing different types of therapy in Santee

Patricia Riley

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 25356
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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.

Psychologist Dr. Frederick  Smoot providing different types of therapy in Santee

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 Renee Lafriniere providing different types of therapy in Santee

Renee Lafriniere

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH12255, CA LPCC 18903
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
25 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Florida with extensive experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I have a deep commitment to addressing issues across diverse life stages—from young adulthood through aging and end-of-life transitions. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and holistic, focusing on areas such as self-love, communication skills, social connections, and healing from isolation or shame. I particularly enjoy working with women, multicultural populations, and individuals experiencing significant life transitions. Whether supporting those managing mood disorders, processing grief, or exploring life purpose, I create a supportive environment where clients can develop meaningful insights and strategies for emotional wellness. With 25 years of professional experience, I bring a nuanced, empathetic perspective to our work together. My goal is to help you understand yourself more deeply and cultivate resilience through collaborative, personalized therapeutic support.

Psychologist Eric Aldaco providing different types of therapy in Santee

Eric Aldaco

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 116682
Mental Wellness Specialties: Self esteemCoping with life changes
16 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I believe that you are the expert of your life journey 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 life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am a Christian therapist and my approach to therapy is from a biblical perspective. I look forward in meeting you and collaboratively engaging in a strength base therapeutic model in treatment.

Psychologist Andrea Plate providing different types of therapy in Santee

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 Keri-Anne Colberg providing different types of therapy in Santee

Keri-Anne Colberg

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 111475
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorder
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, depression, LGBTQ+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. Malcolm Stanislaus providing different types of therapy in Santee

Dr. Malcolm Stanislaus

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 46059
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuseDepressionCoaching
40 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with shame-based issues, trauma and abuse, depression, spiritual bypass, & executive and 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 Alexandra "Lexy" Spett providing different types of therapy in Santee

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 Janice Snyder providing different types of therapy in Santee

Janice Snyder

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 8880
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have a Ph.D. from USC. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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. 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 Grace Lu providing different types of therapy in Santee

Grace Lu

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 151683
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years offering treatment

I have worked extensively with a diverse patient population, such as adolescents in high-school settings, geriatrics, those with developmental differences, and those with dual diagnoses, among others. Although predominantly trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy, I also work from a humanistic model, maintaining a humble and tentative stance, since I believe empathy, compassion, and attunement are at the bedrock of the relational dynamic. I am committed to working with you to improve your overall mental and emotional health and well-being, through a collaborative effort.

Psychologist Susan Richey providing different types of therapy in Santee

Susan Richey

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 49647
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in in California with over 10 years of experience working in clinical practice. I work with clients who experience a wide range of symptoms and concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, adult child issues, their own mature adult challenges, and retirement. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life as an older adult and to take the steps needed for still more changes in our lives. If you are ready to take those steps, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Amber Marble providing different types of therapy in Santee

Amber Marble

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 118769
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

Hi, I’m Amber. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 10 years of experience supporting individuals, teens, and families through some of life’s hardest and most emotionally overwhelming moments. I know starting therapy can feel intimidating. A lot of people come in worried they’re “too much,” not enough, too emotional, too guarded, or that they somehow should have everything figured out already. My goal is to create a space where you can show up exactly as you are messy thoughts, anxiety, relationship struggles, parenting stress, overthinking, grief, burnout, people-pleasing, anger, sadness, and all. My approach is warm, honest, supportive, and very human. I believe therapy works best when there’s real connection and trust, so I encourage open feedback and fully support therapist shopping to find the right fit. You deserve a therapist you feel comfortable with, not someone you feel like you have to perform for. While I’m compassionate and validating, I also believe growth happens when we are willing to gently look at patterns, perspectives, boundaries, and the stories we tell ourselves. I’ll support you, but I’ll also thoughtfully challenge you when needed in a way that helps build insight, confidence, and emotional growth. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, family conflict, self-esteem struggles, life transitions, or simply feeling emotionally exhausted, you do not have to carry it alone. Therapy with me is a collaborative space where we work together to help you better understand yourself, develop healthier coping tools, and move toward the version of your life that feels more peaceful, balanced, and authentic to you.

Psychologist Kyra Shapiro Gutierrez providing different types of therapy in Santee

Kyra Shapiro Gutierrez

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 162680
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges, I bring compassion and expertise to my practice. My professional background focuses on helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, stress, parenting challenges, and self-esteem concerns. I understand that life transitions can be overwhelming, and I'm committed to providing a supportive, affirming space where you can explore your experiences and develop meaningful coping strategies. My approach is rooted in empathy and collaboration, recognizing that each person's journey is unique. I strive to create a welcoming environment where you can feel heard, validated, and empowered to make positive changes. Whether you're struggling with personal growth, relationship dynamics, or emotional well-being, I'm here to walk alongside you with genuine care and professional guidance. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to help you build resilience, enhance self-understanding, and develop practical tools to support your mental health and personal growth. I'm passionate about supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds and creating a therapeutic space that feels safe, respectful, and transformative.

Find a Therapist Near You in Santee , 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 Santee.

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 Santee 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
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