In life, it sometimes feels like your life is a sinking ship. You may be able to make repairs, but more often than not, it feels like you should jump ship. What should your decision be? A counselor based in Gilroy can help you decide that. 

Gilroy is named after a sailor who jumped from his ship, according to some historical sources. Sometimes, it’s worth it to jump ship and find another ship. A counselor can help you determine what you should do with all of life’s troubles. Speak to a counselor today and see what the solution can be.

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Romana Cheang

Offering therapy in CA
License: M.S., LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

Aloha! I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the state of California. I was raised in Oahu, Hawaii and had been living in Southern California for the past 10 years. I completed my Master’s degree from Loma Linda University and I have over 8 years of experience working as a therapist. Previously, I worked in community mental health clinics, elementary & high school settings, and a residential treatment facility. I have experiences with adults, children & teens, and families. My areas of experience are: Stress & anxiety, depressive issues, adult relational problems, communication, and phase of life issues. I would describe my therapy style as strength-based, collaborative, insight-oriented, and use of humor with countless metaphors. With our therapy process, I would like to spend time exploring your life story so I can assist you in "untangling" and/or “fitting those odd puzzle pieces together." My goal is for clients to live a fulfilling life. I was taught that we each carry an “invisible backpack” packed with difficulties, hardships, and personal trauma in life. These growing difficulties result in a heavier backpack in which one day...become almost unbearable. As your therapist, I believe my role is to help unpack so you can rest those shoulders and practice training your “mental muscles.” Sometimes life doesn’t get easier, so you will learn to strengthen your emotional endurance. And your adventure continues.

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Menachem Stulberger

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist with 9 years of experience counseling a wide range of clients. I have worked with clients on grief and loss, depression and anxiety as well as substance abuse concerns. I take a warm approach with clients and use a client centered approach to therapy. I have been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy and approach the sessions in a collaborative manner always working together with people I am working with. I respect that you took this step to seek out a listening ear and I look forward to working together with you on this journey. I was born in New York and as a young child my family moved out to Los Angeles and I have been here ever since. Growing up I was always fascinated by the field of psychology and when I was going for my Bachelors Degree I therefore choose to major in psychology. I attended Touro College Los Angeles for my Bachelors degree and then pursued my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy through Touro University Worldwide. When working with clients I take a warm and empathetic approach and really try to hear what the client is saying. Therapy can be very rewarding but it is often challenging to talk about the difficulties that we face. In session I strive to create a supportive and safe space where we can work together mindfully and without judgement to increase wellness. Thank you for taking the time to look over my profile. I look forward to working together!

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Gary Santorella

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
27 years of experience

My training is in brief cognitive-behavioral therapy. This means that we will deal in the here and now. When we discuss family history, it will be in the context of understanding how over-learned behaviors are influencing you current situation, then develop new ways (behaviors and thinking) to deal with the challenges you are facing. I work best with clients who have a specific goals that they are trying to achieve. That doesn't mean that we can't spend some time figuring this out. But once we do, we will come up with a jointly derived game plan and measures to determine if we've gotten there. Besides being a therapist, I'm a Lean implementation specialist, have been an executive coach for 25 years, and have extensive experience helping people improve their leadership/people skills and working through difficult workplace issues. I have also treated victims of trauma and have a great deal of experience working with PTSD. I co-authored a paper titled: Occupational Exposure of Healthcare Workers to HIV: Stress Reactions and Counseling Interventions which appeared in the journal Social Work in Healthcare. I have also authored a professional book titled Lean Culture for the Construction Industry: Building Committed and Responsible Teams published by Taylor & Francis.

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Janet Giles

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
21 years of experience

Hello My name is Janet Giles and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. My experience has been in a variety of clinical settings over the past 20 years. I have also taught psychology courses as an adjunct professor for National University in their counseling program. Courses include Lifespan Development, Child and Adolescent Development, Theories of Personality and Psychopathology. It can be intimidating to take the first step toward personal growth and healing, so I congratulate you for your courage. It is my goal to create the most comfortable and safe environment for our work together. Some areas of expertise include parenting, relationship issues, victims of abuse and domestic violence, anxiety and depression. I have worked with people that just need some extra support as they face a new life challenge, as well as those suffering great loss and hardships. My approach varies due to the issue of focus. I primarily utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client and Strength Based, and Mindfulness interventions. However, other modalities are drawn upon if indicated. I am also an artist and have been accepted into several art exhibitions. I try to bring my sense of creativity into the therapeutic process. I also enjoy sewing, knitting and a good game of chess. It is my belief that the therapeutic relationship is vital to the success of treatment. I look forward to our meeting and will be honored to join you on your journey toward wellness and a more fulfilling life.

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Mary Baez

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
16 years of experience

Hi my name is Mary Baez. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist registered in the state of California. I have been working in the mental health field for fifteen years in a varieties of settings, giving me a wealth of knowledge on human behavior. Beyond my educational qualifications I have learned and continue to learn from the clients I have had the pleasure and honor of serving throughout my years of clinical practice. The learning never stops and the resiliency of the human spirit is amazing. I also am a clinical supervisor of up and coming therapists. It is of upmost importance to me to build a trusting therapist/client relationship in the beginning of the therapeutic process. This is done by listening with my whole heart in a non-judgmental stance to allow for soulful sharing and feeling heard and understood. My basic approach to therapy is Person Centered, which purports unconditional positive regard. The interventions I use are eclectic and tailored to the unique and individual needs of each client. I work from a holistic and strength based philosophy to assist clients in going within to find their truth and act upon it by living a life worth living based on self-discovery. Clinical Approaches: Trauma Focused Therapy EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Solution Focused Therapy

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Carole Brookshire

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience with individuals and couples. I also hold certification in Substance Use disorder counseling. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, and coping with addiction. 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 in signing up for therapy can take courage, and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Sharon Campbell

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
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, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, anger management and I have experience in working with blended families. 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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Denise Lowery

Offering therapy in CA
Trauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping 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 trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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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Melinda Katahara

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dr. Robert Lone

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am a licensed psychologist in the states of Washington and California with over 30 years of professional work experience. I am also a member of PSYPACT. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, coping with addictions, relationship concerns, and dealing with life changes. While my approach utilizes Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) techniques, I'm primarily a Client-Centered psychologist. 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 step toward a change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.

How to find counseling in Gilroy

Finding the best therapist close by in Gilroy 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 Gilroy. 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 Gilroy, 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy, elsewhere in Santa Clara, 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 Gilroy area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy, 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 95020 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy, 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.

Gilroy 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 Gilroy.

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

95020

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