Stockton has been going through some trouble recently. In 2008, thanks to the recession, it filed for bankruptcy. It took them until 2015 for them to get out of bankruptcy. In life, mistakes happen and disasters can strike. One must be mentally prepared to face bankruptcy or any other challenge that comes their way. 

A counselor based in Stockton can make sure you have enough preparation to face any crisis, be it financial or mental. Always being prepared is a good way to go, because we can never prevent a crisis with 100 percent certainty. 

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Psychologist Sydney Erskine providing different types of therapy in Stockton

Sydney Erskine

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 36366
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
24 years offering treatment

My name is Sydney. I am a licensed MFT in the state of California. I completed my Masters in Psychology in 1994 and received my license as of January 2000. I have worked in centers for addiction treatment, dual diagnosis, and private practice in the bay area. I utilize a holistic approach with my clients customizing treatment as appropriate for the individual. This allows for the integration of our bio-psycho-social-spiritual self. My theoretical background includes, but is not limited to, in brief, Psychodynamics, and Bowen; investigating the systematic learned behavior of your past that has brought you to this moment, Humanism; providing a safe, compassionate, empathic, respectful pathway to guide you in uncovering and discovering your true essential self, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy; practical, realistic, tangible tools to apply to conflictual thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I have a deep appreciation, respect, and compassion for what it takes to summon the courage to seek counseling. In my career as a therapist, I have had the privilege to be of service to individuals seeking positive change in their lives. It is of vital importance to see my clients as they are; individual, distinct, and worthy, they deserve no less and usually much more. Together, we begin by assessing the issues that compelled you to seek counseling at this time in your life. Through a whole life approach, we will examine the bio-psycho-social-spiritual aspects of your life. We will collaborate to gain insight, create measurable goals, find and develop the value and meaning of these discoveries and implement deliberate actions redirecting your focus to transform your life to be one of authenticity, actionable internal motivation, and transformational change. I look forward to helping you develop and achieve meaningful change in your life. Let's work together.

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

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 Merry Walensa providing different types of therapy in Stockton

Merry Walensa

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 322
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
17 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients cope with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career planning and/or difficulties on the job. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I do integrative work including spirituality, related to the psychological-philosophical work often referred to as existential theory, that is inclusive. I create for ALL my clients a space that is 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 making change. I am here to support & empower you on this journey. Please note: that ALL new clients need to sign up for a VIDEO appointment FIRST before a phone or chat may be used.For new comers. I also highly recommend keeping your appointments and cancelling by giving advanced notices when ever possible. I appreciate that COURTEOUS. Thank you.

Psychologist Orlee Tugend-Raymond providing different types of therapy in Stockton

Orlee Tugend-Raymond

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 25789
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
25 years offering treatment

I am a family and marriage counselor licensed in California with over 25 years of experience in working with families, children and couples. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, family dynamics and career challenges. I also have a Jewish background and am here to support Jewish clients that are either looking for spiritual support or would like to talk to a Jewish therapist. I am available to support Hebrew speakers as I speak fluent Hebrew. My counseling style is warm and interactive. My listening skills are excellent and I will hear what you are saying. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My counseling approaches include cognitive-behavioral, blended family issues and navigating caregivers. I also do solution focused therapy for those that prefer shorter term therapy. Our dialogue and treatment plan will always be designed to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you to get the happier and more fulfilled life that you are looking for. I look forward to working with you! Specialties: Parenting issues and family dynamics blended families stress/anxiety life changes career challenges Caregiver stress

Psychologist Cherri Castellon providing different types of therapy in Stockton

Cherri Castellon

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 20946, SC LISW-CP 8402
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California and South Carolina. I have 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & 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. 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 James Goodwin providing different types of therapy in Stockton

James Goodwin

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LMFT 2018, CA LMFT 51474
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
22 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California and North Carolina with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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 Jacqueline Hayes providing different types of therapy in Stockton

Jacqueline Hayes

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 50113
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
16 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring 16 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, family conflicts, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing issues such as self-esteem, communication difficulties, social anxiety, and relationship dynamics. My approach is compassionate and tailored, drawing from a deep understanding of human experiences. I'm particularly committed to supporting women, young adults, and individuals wrestling with life transitions, workplace stress, and personal identity. Whether you're struggling with isolation, seeking purpose, or working through relationship challenges, I offer a supportive, understanding environment. Grounded in Christian values and a conservative therapeutic perspective, I create a safe space where clients can explore their emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and move towards healing and self-discovery. My goal is to empower you to build resilience, find inner strength, and create meaningful, positive change in your life.

Psychologist Eric Aldaco providing different types of therapy in Stockton

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 Dr. Virginia Christophe providing different types of therapy in Stockton

Dr. Virginia Christophe

Clinician
License Type(s): AZ LPC LPC-22925, CA LPCC 18211
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
36 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Texas with over three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My approach centers on helping clients navigate issues like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I bring deep expertise in addressing women's issues, workplace challenges, and the unique emotional landscapes of midlife and young adulthood. My practice is rooted in understanding multicultural experiences and providing compassionate, nuanced support across diverse backgrounds. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, overcome isolation, and rediscover life purpose. I'm particularly skilled at supporting individuals through difficult experiences like divorce, caregiver stress, chronic health challenges, and family dynamics. I believe in creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, heal from past wounds, and develop healthier patterns of thinking and relating. My goal is to empower you to build resilience, find meaning, and create positive change in your life.

Psychologist Noreen Rios providing different types of therapy in Stockton

Noreen Rios

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 14888
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger management
51 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with over 50 years of professional work experience. I have extensive experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse loss and grief, addictions, and co-dependency and anger management . I have worked with GLBTQ both individuals and couples and a diverse population. I love helping individuals & couples improve their communication, resolve conflict, build trust and have more emotional connection and intimacy with each other. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I'm here to empower you and support you on your journey.

Psychologist Jamal Cameron providing different types of therapy in Stockton

Jamal Cameron

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 133473
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
11 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, & bipolar disorder. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Esteban Avila providing different types of therapy in Stockton

Esteban Avila

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 59623
Mental Wellness Specialties: LGBTRelationship issuesGrief
13 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California and have 13 years of professional experience. I have experience helping clients with LGBTQ+ issues, relationship issues, and coping with grief. I also have experience working with people who have overcome loss. I believe you are the expert on your own story and possess many strengths that will help you overcome challenges. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and happy life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Teresa Avila providing different types of therapy in Stockton

Teresa Avila

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 161333
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on empowering clients to develop resilience, self-understanding, and meaningful strategies for personal growth. With expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and trauma, I create a compassionate space where clients can explore their experiences and cultivate healing. My professional background focuses on supporting individuals through life transitions, workplace dynamics, and personal identity exploration. I am particularly passionate about helping clients work through social anxiety, isolation, body image concerns, and interpersonal communication challenges. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I collaborate with clients to develop personalized approaches that honor their unique strengths and experiences. As a bilingual therapist fluent in English and Spanish, I am committed to providing culturally responsive and inclusive care. My goal is to support you in developing self-love, understanding your life's purpose, and building meaningful connections that promote emotional well-being.

Psychologist Elena Balashova-Shamis providing different types of therapy in Stockton

Elena Balashova-Shamis

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist PSY20104
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
23 years offering treatment

Dr. Elena Balashova-Shamis is a highly experienced, licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adults, and elderly. She is trained as a psychoanalyst and provides integrative, personalized treatments for her patients. She teaches at 5 local universities, including UCLA’s medical school and NPI. She is known for her presentations, publications, and dissertation advising.

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

Find a therapist near you in Stockton, California

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

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

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

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

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across California, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

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

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

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

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

Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in California

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

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

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

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

Therapists near you in California

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across California, including residents in Stockton.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in California do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

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

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

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

Is online therapy effective?

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

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

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

How quickly can I start therapy?

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

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy discreet?

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

Find a Therapist in Stockton, California

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

Find the right therapist for your needs
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