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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Michael Tidstrand

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): BA,MA,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I specialize in providing compassionate support to individuals navigating a spectrum of mental health challenges. Drawing from both professional training and personal experiences, I understand the complexities of these struggles firsthand. Clients can expect a nonjudgmental and empathetic environment where they can freely express themselves without fear of stigma or shame. My approach is rooted in creating a secure space where clients feel heard and valued. As a licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, I prioritize active listening, curiosity, and reflection. By employing techniques such as mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral therapy, I help clients explore the intricate connections between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. My goal is to empower clients on their journey towards healing and self-discovery. Together, we'll uncover the underlying reasons behind presenting issues, fostering meaningful insights and personal growth. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to support you in your path towards a more fulfilling life.

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Jesse Jones

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I believe in you and your stories. We each hold the power to define our story, identity, and sexuality. Sex, love, gender, relationships, and romance—these topics can be tricky to navigate and often uncomfortable to address. I am here to assist you (and your partners) in tackling these concepts and conversations with affirmation, validation, and a little humor. I am dedicated to helping you develop the skills needed to live your most authentic life. As a member of the LGBTQ, non-monogamous, nudist, kink, and neurodivergent communities, I understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with expressing your true self. Navigating these complexities can be difficult, but you are not alone—I am here to support you on your journey toward a more fulfilling and joyful life. Together, we will address issues by focusing on your successes and how you want your story to be understood. Whether you need support with gender, men's and women's issues, non-monogamy, kink and BDSM dynamics, relationship concerns, societal stressors, or LGBTQ concerns, I provide a safe space for exploration within the spectrums of Gender, Sexual, and Relationship Diversity (GSRD). I am trained in Sex Therapy, including Gender-Affirming Sex Therapy for those reacquainting with their bodies during or after gender transition. My approach is informed by social justice. I draw from Narrative therapy, postmodern, and sex-positive feminist theory. I believe the problem is the problem and that you are never the problem, and that you are the expert of your own life and the shared expert of your own relationship. I am an active observer who offers kind feedback to help you establish the preferred life you want to be living. I am here to help you highlight your power and navigate life's challenges. I am exceptionally excited to work with you!

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Geoffrey Faustman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I offer a direct, active, goal-oriented approach in helping you find relief from the anxiety, anger, depression, shame, or whatever it is that leaves you feeling stuck. By taking a look at 1) What are you trying to achieve? 2) What are you trying to preserve? 3) What are you trying to avoid? and 4) What are you trying to eliminate? we can highlight the sometimes-complex interaction among your thoughts, decisions, actions and outcomes. Knowing yourself, making use of your personal strengths & your tools at hand while allowing your values guide you, you can propel yourself toward becoming the best, most fulfilled version of yourself. I use a combination of evidence-based treatments tailored to suit your strengths to overcome your core fears and reach your goals. These include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which can help with different kinds of problems and degrees of suffering. I don’t want you in therapy forever. I want you to reach your goals, and live your life to the fullest.

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Sandra Terifaj

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepression
35 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 35 years of experience in private practice and the training/supervision of interns at various non profit agencies. I am committed in helping you find healing, resolution and growth by guiding you within a safe environment in accessing the emotional pain/obstacles that are holding you back from living the life you fully want to live. My approach is to work collaboratively with you by using interventions based on your needs, including Client-Centered, Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral.

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Dr. Kristi Hottenstein

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,NCC,Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Whether you’re experiencing difficult times or new adventures, I’m here to help. I have been a licensed professional counselor in the state of Michigan since 2009. I am the practitioner/owner of Compass Counseling & Coaching, PLLC, a member of the Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association and was appointed to their board in 2021. I have a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Toledo, a masters in Counseling from the University of La Verne and a bachelors in Sociology from Alma College. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, and teens, as well as provide college selection coaching. I have a very holistic approach to counseling because no two people are the same. I see each client as an individual requiring their own unique approach. I use a variety of counseling techniques, encouraging self-awareness and the acceptance of one’s own responsibilities in their personal journey. I believe the more we know ourselves, the better we can respond to situations.

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Roberto Garcia II

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesParenting issues
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist certified to provide mental health services in the state of California. I have been providing mental health services for the past 5 years working with non-profit community mental health clinics, probation offices & court systems, middle school, high schools and now as a private practice clinician. Within these settings, I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, parents, teenagers, children and families at many different phases of life and personal development. When in session, I utilize trauma-informed and cultural-humility practices to ensure a sense of true respect, sensitivity and compassion for my clients' needs. Because of this, all sessions and services are tailored specifically to address the concerns of each client in their specific life settings. The modalities of therapy that I employ most regularly with my clients include: Psychodynamic, CBT, Existential, Narrative, and Solution Focused. My list of service experience includes: Couple's Counseling/Intimacy issues, Personal Self-Esteem and Decision-Making, LGBTQIA+2 issues, Faith-Based Issues, Anxiety/Depression/Stress, and much more. My hope is that my experience and expertise can be utilized to provide you a safe and secure space where you feel comfortable enough to process your concerns without fear of judgement or rejection. I want to congratulate you on taking this step in your journey to explore the best options for you. I also want to encourage you to continue this process and I hope to have the pleasure of meeting you soon!

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Keturah Baker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
LGBTRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesDepression
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello beautiful people. My most treasured skill as a therapist but most importantly as a human is the ability to connect and relate with almost any one no matter your race, gender, culture, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or age. I am learning in practice and in life that no matter how old, young, accomplished or established we become there will always be a natural human yearning we carry to feel like we belong and that we matter to others. I have experience in the following: Individual therapy Family Therapy Couples Therapy Group Therapy Adults Infant/Children/Adolescents Grief and Loss Foster Care and Adoption Depression Anxiety PTSD Anger Suicidal Ideation Bipolar Parent-Child Relationships Interpersonal Relationships. As a therapist I believe a safe space is important for the client to be their true self and for growth and change to happen. This process only happens when trust is established. Whatever decision you make towards your health and wellness today know that life is a journey that can only happen one day at a time. I wish you well.

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Corrie Keener

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Are you looking for a Christian LMFT, someone who truly loves Jesus? That's me! This is how I can help you! With your permission, I integrate the Bible with psychological tools. This brings you an opportunity to TRULY heal and reach your goals. I have my Masters degree in Marriage and Family therapy from California Baptist University. I am trauma-trained and love working with those whose pain is interrupting their life. If the past won't go away, or you have a hunch that it might be why you are stuck in your current life, then you are probably right. I want you to know you are not alone; I will walk that healing journey with you. What am I like?: One of my clients once told me, "You're real!" I replied, "Yes, the real me allows you to be the real you." They added, "You genuinely care." And they were right. I care about your pain. What makes you want to do this job...is all this pain too much for you to hear all the time?: No, because I know healing is happening, and I get to watch the process. Who wouldn't want to watch God work in someone's life? In fact, you will find my greatest joy is when you decide to end therapy. Nothing is better than seeing you reach your goals and release the pain! (Although it is sad to say goodbye.) Still nervous to start?: Let's begin if you're tired of circling around the same topics with no progress! We can work as slow or as fast as you want. You set the pace! Also, remember: You can switch to another therapist with BetterHelp if I'm not the right fit for you. Don't worry; if I am not, I'll encourage you to keep looking for your safe person rather than settle.

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Kelly Kratzer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues (including parenting neurodivergent children), motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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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Lydia Session

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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. 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 a therapist for 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 in South El Monte that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

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 in the South El Monte region and in the state of California. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor 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, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 South El Monte 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) about therapists and mental health services

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 with a therapist 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this South El Monte 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 South El Monte psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, 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, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

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:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 in South El Monte?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a South El Monte 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.

South El Monte therapists 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 South El Monte 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in CA, therapists 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 from therapists 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 South El Monte 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in South El Monte.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. 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 with a South El Monte counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for South El Monte, California

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 to customer service 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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