The motto of the City of South El Monte, California in Los Angeles County is “Growing Our Future.” Their mission is to protect and improve the quality of life for the community. They also have some of the best mental health professionals in the state who can help if you or someone you love has a mental health disorder. 

Some of the signs of the most common mental illnesses include unexplained sadness, fatigue, sleeping and eating changes, confusion, difficulty making decisions, and chronic aches and pains. If you or someone you care about is experiencing any of these or other signs of a mental illness, talk to one of the South El Monte psychiatrists today.

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Douglas Mitchell

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
8 years of experience

Welcome! I would be honored to work with you! I am a psychotherapist (LMFT) licensed in California with my graduate degree in Expressive Arts Therapy from CIIS in San Francisco. I have many years of experience working as a counselor and I'm a Coach U graduate. I have worked with clients using cognitive approaches to work with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sexuality, and ADHD. I'm a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist by the Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies. I'm sensitive to those who have suffered or experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I'm LGBTQ sensitive, and culturally aware. I also work with those in kink and alternative relationships. Adjectives that might describe my style are: engaged, respectful, down to earth, relaxed, practical, mindful, insight-oriented, and solution focused. I lean more towards a collaborative, engaging and interactive approach so that feel you are not doing all the talking. I do my best to go at your pace and have a youthful, somewhat playful demeanor. I honor your innate intelligence and know that when you look within, you gain confidence in yourself and your choices. My goal is to support maintaining a big picture perspective, while you are processing through your thoughts and emotions. At times I might recommend reading a book, or give you a handout, or have your complete a creative assignment to deepen your process between sessions. If you believe in balancing mind, body, and spirit, then we might be a good fit for each other, as each is essential to the healing process. Because your history and experiences are unique, I will do my best to meet you where you are. I want what is best for you just as much as you do! "When you can't control what's happening, challenge yourself to control the way you respond to what's happening. That is where your power is." - author unknown. I look forward to connecting with you!

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Angelique Gettle

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California and New Mexico with over 25 years of experience working as a psychotherapist in diverse settings. My experience has led me to deal with mood disorders, PTSD, relational issues, women's issues, trauma, grief, addictions and attachment related disorders. I have also utilized art therapy and animal therapy in my clinical practice. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, believing that every client is unique in their own perception and life experience. My approach combines a more humanistic, dynamic approach. I also enjoy rational-emotive based therapy and Minuchin’s Structural approach. It takes courage to seek therapy and to take those first steps toward actual change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to listen, support, and empower you to do so. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Alexander Edwards

Offering therapy in CA
License: PsyD,MPA,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
15 years of experience

Alexander S. Edwards, PsyD., LCSW You have just taking the biggest step towards mental stability. Thank you for taking the time to review my professional biography: I have my Doctorate in Psychology (Psy.D) from California Southern University and my Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Long Beach. I have over 15 years of clinical experience across a variety of settings including outpatient specialty clinics, Forensic inpatient, crisis intervention, Crisis Negotiations, structured outpatient programs, inpatient psychiatric, large nonprofits, and private practice. In addition, I have taught graduate social work courses at California State University, Los Angeles. I have also provided clinical and administrative supervision to social work student, interns and professionals. Along with a broad range of clinical experience working with individuals, families and groups across the life span in the following areas: •Depression and Bipolar Disorder •Individuals with Special Needs •Anxiety Disorders •Behavioral and Discipline Challenges •Self-Harm Behavior •Complicated Grief Reactions •Chronic Pain and Chronic Illness •Anger and Stress Management •Trauma and Abuse •Family and Relationship Issues •Adults with Special Needs •Suicide Assessment and Risk Reduction •Group Psychotherapy •Chronic Mental Illness •Couple’s Conflict •Self-image and Self-Esteem Issues Furthermore, my approach emphasizes the mutual development of goals for therapy and provision of ongoing evaluation of the therapeutic approach. Services can include individual, couples, family and group therapy across the lifespan. My training includes: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Anger-Management, Domestic Violence, Reality Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Crisis Intervention. At the same time, I continue to seek ongoing updates to his skills and knowledge base. I am invested in an approach emphasizing a more integrative, dynamic, and holistic approach to mental health services. With particular concerns with the impact of loss, trauma and improving intervention to support trauma recovery for better emotional, physical and relationship health.

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David Pecoraro

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issues
35 years of experience

With over 35 years of professional experience as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I have assisted and helped, both individuals and couples struggling with issues related to poor couples communication, relationship conflict, addictions, mood disorders, as well as past trauma and emotional abuse. I have an extensive background in helping others change their approach to problem solving especially related to Couples Conflict utilizing thoughtful conflict resolution skills,and understanding how relationships function and are sustained. My clinical approach is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, the Gottman Method and a Psychodynamic Therapy approach. All treatment plans are developed with clients to reach their specific needs and goals. Specialties * Relationship Issues *Family Conflict *Stress and Anxiety *Addictions *Trauma and Abuse also experienced in: Divorce & Separation, Family of Origin Issues, Mood Disorders, Fatherhood Issues, and Domestic Violence/Anger Management.

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Dr. Kandice Hsu

Offering therapy in CA
License: PsyD,LMFT
GriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

Welcome to the BetterHelp community! My name is Dr. Kandice Hsu and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California. For over 8 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals and families on challenges related to grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), self-esteem, life transitions and systemic/relational conflict. As a parent, I am deeply passionate about working with individuals experiencing prenatal and postpartum depression to help them navigate and find balance among the ebbs and flow of this beautiful, yet often lonely, journey. I believe that that healing comes from making deeper and meaningful connections to yourself, your stories, and relationships. I place a special emphasis on strength-based counseling utilizing modalities such as solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), an evidence-based treatment for children and adolescents impacted by trauma. I strive to make my sessions a safe and collaborative space to help you meet your goals. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I generally check messages here a few times a day Monday-Friday and respond as quickly as I can. I do appreciate your patience when it takes a bit longer at times, as I may be tending to other clients or professional/personal responsibilities. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Sylvia Chamberlain

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA MFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

My name is Sylvia Fernandez Chamberlain. I have been a licensed Marriage, Family Therapist for the past 30 years. I have a B.A. in Theatre Arts from Humboldt State University. I graduated in 1982. I majored in dance and Native American Studies. I have a Master’s Degree from Antioch University in Clinical Psychology. I graduated in 1989. I supervised Graduate Trainees to be licensed as Marriage, Family Therapist through Antioch University from October 2020-December 2021 For years I struggled with my own early childhood trauma. After years of movement and studies in Native American Philosophy and Culture that addressed my personal identification, I felt more in control of my personal traumas. I was able to heal myself through movement and years of yoga meditation. All of which led me to believe that I could benefit others in their journey to heal. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Theory, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma-Focused Therapy and Attachment Therapy to assist clients in recognizing their challenges and healing their hurt and pain. I am hopeful that I may do the same for you. I check my messages several times a day and will respond to your request within 24 hours.

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Anyssia Johnson

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

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, & 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.

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Shanna Gonzales

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Kaisha Keith

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
19 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have expertise helping clients with stress and anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, & grief and loss. 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!

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Dr. Deanna Wong

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 12+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping adult and teen clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, self-esteem and confidence, & depression. My work with all clients starts with creating 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.

How to find counseling in South El Monte

Finding the best therapist close by in South El Monte can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in South El Monte. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in South El Monte, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in South El Monte or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater South El Monte area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of South El Monte, elsewhere in Los Angeles, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed South El Monte therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in South El Monte due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in South El Monte may not take health insurance, some in the state of California may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in South El Monte, California working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in South El Monte above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in South El Monte helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified South El Monte therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a South El Monte therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

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 you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A South El Monte therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in CA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 91733 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 can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a South El Monte counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A South El Monte licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in South El Monte, California can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

South El Monte has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of South El Monte.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in South El Monte:

91733

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