Sometimes in life, you need a wide, open space for you to explore. This just doesn't apply to the outside world, but to the mind as well. You want to explore your mind and make new discoveries, but it can be a challenge when anxiety, depression, and other troubles get you down. A therapist based in Walnut Creek can help. 

Walnut Creek is known for its open spaces. When you're dealing with problems, having a place where you can let loose is always good. A therapist can help you explore yourself and give you the space that you deserve.

This is Katina Boulai's avatar and link to their profile

Katina Boulai

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

My name is Katina Boulai and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I know that seeking help can be a difficult choice but you are not alone. I have many years experience working with families, couples, and individuals using a relational, cognitive behavioral therapy and family systems approach. I have experience with diverse populations with issues relating to depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, parenting, divorce, grief, life transitions, and relationship issues. I also worked with the adult homeless community and teens experiencing issues with addiction. My approach is respectful and empathetic working in the here and now based on my client's need. Taking this step is not always easy but very helpful in order to develop better ways of dealing with day-to-day struggles. Having someone with whom you can safely and privately discuss your concerns creates an opportunity to achieve a better quality of life. I use a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each client. What we discuss is confidential except if there are any concerns that you may be a danger to yourself or others. My office hours are Monday-Thursday 6:00-8:00 P.M and I typically respond to messages within 24 hours or sooner if possible.

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Marsha (Marcie) Eriksen Hanna

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW,LCSW
GriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
21 years of experience

Welcome and congratulations on reaching out for support! It takes great strength to make the decision to take that first step. We will be showcasing and enhancing your many strengths by utilizing a Strengths-Based, Solution Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral model in our time together to achieve your fullest potential and happiness in life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with almost 20 years of experience in working with individual adults and families in the following practice areas: Depression, Stress and Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family Conflicts, Coping with grief and loss, Parenting issues, Motivation/Self esteem/Confidence, Career difficulties, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue, and Memory Loss. My Master’s degree in Social Work is from San Diego State University. I also completed an Intergenerational Specialist certificate program from the University of Pittsburgh’s graduate school of social work. You will find my counseling style to be compassionate, warm, genuine, direct, and respectful. I create a space for you that is safe, non-judgmental, encouraging and positive. I am an empathetic and active listener, and we will use proven approaches and strategies that are tailored to the uniqueness of your needs and life path. I am looking forward to working with you!

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Amber Atwood

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS, LPCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). My therapy approach is strength-based aimed to empower and motivate individuals. I have been trained in a variety of approaches incorporating mindfulness based therapy techniques and cognitive behavioral therapy. Additionally, I have had extensive training in narrative therapy which is founded on the premise that “the person is not the problem, the problem is the problem.” Emphasis in treatment is to help individuals increase a greater sense of self-awareness, mind-body connection, and support personal growth. This approach includes developing an improved understanding of current coping mechanisms and behavioral patterns to help identify when feeling stuck.

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Jennifer Gaumer

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger management
13 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Jennifer Boden Gaumer and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Southern California with over ten years of experience in providing therapy services. I have worked in many therapeutic settings including: a hospital-based child guidance clinic, residential treatment center, and community-based professional parenting program for teenagers in foster care. I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting problems, ADHD, OCD and, learning disabilities. As a trained forensic interviewer, I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. Originally from Connecticut, I relocated to Southern California in 2009. I earned my Masters in Social Work degree from the University of Connecticut School of Social Work in 2001. My undergraduate degree is in Psychology from Clark University in Massachusetts. My counseling style is warm, interactive, and caring. I use various forms of psychotherapy (e.g., talk-therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and problem-solving therapy) to help my clients develop the tools necessary to address and/or relieve troubling symptoms and make positive improvements to their lives. The journey to starting a therapeutic relationship is one built on courage, strength, and trust. It takes courage to recognize the need for help, strength to believe in yourself, and trust in the therapeutic process. Outside of being a therapist, I am an avid gardener and home renovation fan. I also enjoy reading, going to the beach, and traveling to new places with my husband and two daughters. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Eryn Patchett's avatar and link to their profile

Eryn Patchett

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
18 years of experience

I am an independently licensed marriage and family therapist in the state of New Mexico and California. I have been licensed since 2005, and a supervisor for other therapists since 2011. I received my Bachelors in Psychology from the University of New Mexico, and my Masters from California State University Fullerton. I started my career in mental health in 2002 after receiving my Bachelor's and worked as a case manager and behavioral health tech prior to and while obtaining my masters degree. I have worked in a number of diverse number of settings, including outpatient clinics, treatment foster care, and residential treatment and supervised residential treatment centers, group homes and day treatment programs. I've worked with individuals of all ages, families, and adolescents, and most recently seniors. I've specialized in treating those with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, domestic violence, trauma, and those at-risk. During my career, I have worked as a therapist, Clinical Supervisor, Clinical Director, COO and most recently as an Executive Director. All the roles have been extremely rewarding but none more than working 1:1 with individuals seeking out therapy. Currently, I am focusing on those with adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, parenting support, relational issues, and trauma. I work diligently as your partner to tailor therapy to meet your individual needs. Therapy is designed to meet you where you are. You'll be heavily involved in developing the therapy goals and I'll tailor my approach to meet your needs. My goal is to allow you to reach your personal, family, and professional goals. We'll identify your strengths and build upon them to meet your identified needs to work towards you becoming the best version of yourself. I look forward to working with you on your journey! Specific therapeutic interventions include: CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy) Psychodynamic Therapy Talk Therapy Strength Based Narrative Therapy

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This is Dianna Privitt's avatar and link to their profile

Dianna Privitt

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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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Cheryl Heinla

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

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, and life transitions. 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 applaud you for getting started!

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This is Gabrielle Gray's avatar and link to their profile

Gabrielle Gray

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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This is Ji Eun Midlam's avatar and link to their profile

Ji Eun Midlam

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 21 years of professional work experience in healthcare and private practice. I graduated from the USC (University of Southern California) and received degrees in both Public Administration and Social Work. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I am also a Certified Health Coach and provide career coaching. 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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This is Dr. Monica Ross's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Monica Ross

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping 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, lgbtq+ related issues, career difficulties, & depression. 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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How to find counseling in Walnut Creek

Finding the best therapist close by in Walnut Creek 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 Walnut Creek. 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 Walnut Creek, 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 Walnut Creek 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 Walnut Creek 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 Walnut Creek, elsewhere in Contra Costa, 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 Walnut Creek area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Walnut Creek 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 Walnut Creek 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 Walnut Creek 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 Walnut Creek, 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 Walnut Creek 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 Walnut Creek 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 Walnut Creek 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 Walnut Creek 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 Walnut Creek 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 94597 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 Walnut Creek 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 Walnut Creek 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 Walnut Creek, 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.

Walnut Creek 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 Walnut Creek.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Walnut Creek:

94529, 94595, 94596, 94597, 94598

Popular cities near Walnut Creek, CA

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