Being mentally unwell can make you feel unsafe. If you have constant anxiety, you may be worrying about dangers that aren’t there. If you have depression, you may feel like you're a danger to yourself. When the world around you is safe, it doesn't matter to you if you don't feel safe. 

A counselor based in Thousand Oaks can help. They can provide you with the safety you need. Thousand Oaks is one of the safest places to live, but in life, safety comes internally in addition to externally. Speak to a counselor and feel safe.

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Mateus Porter

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Hello, my name is Mateus Porter, MA, LMFT. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I work in a non-profit setting as well as enjoying my private practice where I see a variety of clients ranging in age and struggling with depression, anxiety, school/work stress, self-esteem issues, life transitions, relationship issues, and parenting concerns. My specialty is working with student-athletes struggling with a variety of issues, but you definitely do not have to be an athlete to see me! Therapy can vary depending on the individual therapist that you work with. My style is a strength-based eclectic approach that combines elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems. I love being able to meet my clients where they’re at and go at their pace while applying the therapeutic approach that best fits their specific needs. Life can be hard and it takes courage to reach out for help. You’re taking the first step right now which is amazing! It would be an honor to be by your side while we figure things out and make life a little better for you.

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Tammy Murphy

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Hello and Welcome! Congratulations on taking action! My name is Tammy Murphy. I am a Licensed Psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience! I currently have the pleasure of working with motivated clients ALL OVER California through my teletherapy practice. Since I transitioned to online therapy several years ago, I have been amazed at how effective this new platform can be! I am pleased to conclude that my clients love it too! People enjoy the convenience of having their sessions in the comfort of their own homes (with their beloved pets, a good cup of coffee, and their favorite cozy chair)! Clients also appreciate sessions on the go through the use of their mobile phones! It’s like taking time out in the middle of a busy day to reflect and reset. Dealing with anxiety, depression, and stress can be overwhelming. Therapy provides the support necessary for people to get on with the business of life so they can re-focus on what really matters! Throughout my career, I have worked in a variety of settings including private practice, county agencies, nonprofits, school districts, and even wilderness/adventure-based therapies. I have loved them all! My therapeutic approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and engaging! I utilize an array of evidence-based practices along with humor! I believe it is the brightest and bravest among us who know when it's time to reach out. I also believe that most of us have a sense of what we need to do differently to improve our lives. The real question is what gets in the way of doing it? Together we can explore barriers, learn new skills, and take small but necessary steps toward reaching your life goals. After all, the most important investment you will ever make is in YOU! I look forward to working with you! Cheers!

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Lily Vega

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT,PPS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGrief
4 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I have been providing individual telehealth therapy services to adults within a private practice setting for the last 6 months. I work with individuals coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship/communication difficulty, grief and loss, life transitions, and feelings of overwhelm and low self-worth. Together we will practice identifying and challenging unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to negative feelings, improve communication skills, process difficult experiences such as grief and loss and trauma, and improve feelings of low self-worth. My therapeutic approach empowers clients to become the best versions of themselves. I meet my clients where they are and firmly believe that they are the experts in their lives. We will work collaboratively to discover strategies and solutions that work best for you. I provide cognitive behavioral therapy and cognitive processing therapy (trauma-focused). I look forward to working with you to help you obtain insight for personal growth, and become the best version of yourself.

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Matthew Tapia

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT,BCBA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionADHD
11 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Matthew Tapia and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Arizona and California. In my life, I’ve seen many people with a broad spectrum of challenges. I’ve also seen that hope and relief are possible. I offer a unique perspective in getting you that help. I enjoy seeing individuals and families solve problems and feel closer together. My experience comes from providing direct mental health and behavioral counseling for kids, teens, and adults with a variety of presenting issues including anxiety, autism, Asperger's syndrome, depression, stress, relationship and family issues, life transitions, parenting, and caregiving issues in a variety of settings. My approach and therapy style draws influence from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). It is important that you and I work together as a team using a collaborative approach and that I meet you where you are. Previously, I worked in a private practice as a clinician, consultant, and supervisor. I have also worked at a nonprofit mental health clinic as a clinician, supervisor, consultant, and trainer. This background gave me the opportunity to work with individuals, families, and couples with a wide variety of presenting issues. I have supported those dealing with autism, Asperger's syndrome, anger issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, young adult issues, life transitions, men's issues, parenting, caregiving, substance abuse and at-risk adolescent behavior. I also assist crisis response and first responders through their difficult experiences. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University and an undergraduate degree in Psychology from San Jose State University. I am also certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and licensed as a Licensed Behavior Analyst in Arizona. Early in my career, I had the privilege of working with a young couple who were facing significant challenges in their relationship. They had been together for several years but found themselves constantly caught in arguments and unable to communicate effectively. Their frustration and despair were palpable during our initial sessions. As we began our journey together, I witnessed their commitment to each other and their genuine desire to rebuild their connection. Over time, we delved into the underlying issues contributing to their conflicts, exploring patterns of communication, past experiences, and individual needs. One memorable session stands out vividly in my mind. It was a breakthrough moment when they both expressed vulnerability and shared their deepest fears and insecurities. In that moment of raw honesty, walls crumbled, and empathy flourished. It was a turning point in their relationship as they discovered newfound understanding and compassion for each other. Through dedication and hard work, they gradually transformed their relationship into one characterized by mutual respect, open communication, and genuine intimacy. Witnessing their growth and resilience was incredibly rewarding, and it reinforced my belief in the transformative power of therapy and the resilience of the human spirit. This experience deeply informs my approach to therapy, emphasizing the importance of fostering a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their challenges, discover their strengths, and embark on a journey of healing and growth together.

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Jessica Sin

Offering therapy in CA
Addictions
7 years of experience

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California, with 7 years of clinical work experience. I started my career as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, working in both abstinent based and harm reduction settings. I employ a humanistic, strength-based approach to treatment, while incorporating other useful modalities such as Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Internal Family Systems. I believe the foundational principles of acceptance and surrender are essential to finding peace and serenity within oneself. My approach to therapy represents a blending of traditional recovery wisdom and modern holistic practices. I have an inquisitive spirit and welcomes the unique challenges that each person brings. I enjoy watching the therapeutic alliance evolve as people discover their strengths, gain self-efficacy, and move towards the ultimate destination of inner peace. My ultimate goal continues to be providing safe and compassionate care to people by meeting them where they are at and helping them achieve meaningful change. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. I am only here as a map, providing with you information and guidance; ultimately, you are 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. Michelle Margules

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.

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Tamika Blaisdell

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Montana with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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.

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Angela Rose

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, 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. 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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Tiffany Griffin

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Kathryn Eden

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
34 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 34 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, depression, & coping with life changes. 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! I provide psychotherapy in a caring, compassionate and comfortable atmosphere.Clients are treated as unique individuals, never losing sight of the fact that their issues are not expected to fit a specific diagnostic code, but instead are varied and distinct in every case. This requires, demands and deserves a client-centered therapeutic approach that is the cornerstone of my practice.I have dedicated my profession to improving and enhancing the mental health and well-being of my clients. Adhering to the guiding principle that a healthful mind is inextricably bound to physical health and merits, at the very least, the same level of care and concern. I work with adults, young adults, particularly those transitioning to living independently or coping with the demands of college. Focus: adjustment difficulties, relationships, developmental challenges, anxiety,depression. I collaborate with clients to increase self-awareness, process their emotions, and learn new skills.I use insight-oriented, supportive, mindfulness-based,cognitive behavior therapy approaches, The human-animal bond is a mutually beneficial, dynamic relationship between people and animals that positively influences the health of clients and pet therapy is helpful in reducing anxiety and depression. While this is an online forum I support your bond to your pets to help reduce current distressing symptoms.. An emerging body of research is recognizing the impact the bond can have on individual and community health. More information on credentials see : https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/kathryn-eden-providence-ri/191923

How to find counseling in Thousand Oaks

Finding the best therapist close by in Thousand Oaks 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 Thousand Oaks. 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 Thousand Oaks, 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 Thousand Oaks 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 Thousand Oaks 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 Thousand Oaks, elsewhere in Ventura, 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 Thousand Oaks area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Thousand Oaks 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 Thousand Oaks 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 Thousand Oaks 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 Thousand Oaks, 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 Thousand Oaks 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 Thousand Oaks 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 Thousand Oaks 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 Thousand Oaks 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 Thousand Oaks 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 91320 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 Thousand Oaks 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 Thousand Oaks 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 Thousand Oaks, 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.

Thousand Oaks 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 Thousand Oaks.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Thousand Oaks:

91319, 91320, 91358, 91359, 91360, 91361, 91362

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