Living in the sunshine state of California, it does not seem like anyone would be unhappy or stressed out. But, it does not matter where you live or how sunny it is, you can get depression or anxiety from a chemical imbalance or it could be inherited. The counselors based in Imperial Beach are dedicated to help those with mental health disorders like anxiety or depression. 

The mission statement of Imperial Beach is to maintain a classic southern California beach-oriented community. The town is focused on being safe and rich in culture and natural resources. This is the kind of town you want to raise a family in. But, if you have depression or anxiety, it's important to speak with a therapist so you can start feeling better. 

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Sheila Brittain

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist offering a unique combination of professional skills, education, and knowledge, which include, mediation and small business owner/consultant. I embrace this profession with a wealth of life experiences that include over 30 years in social services. As a change agent, I create and maintain a trusting and safe space where individuals can explore a new way of being and existing. We don’t get to choose our family of origin, but we do get to choose how we are going to be in our many interactions with others. The investments we make in our self are reflected in our daily life. Our beliefs, perceptions, and feelings guide us as we live day to day. Allowing individuals to create their own truth through exploration and empowerment can bring understanding and hope as they encounter a new way of living. I believe change and healing occurs as a result of a collaborative and relational experience. My role is to support my clients through the therapeutic process and help them discover a resolution to conflict/or pain, whether it occurs on the inside with one’s thoughts and feelings or on the outside between two or more individuals. I bring a curious mind, and an open heart as we make the journey together to a better life. Congratulations on wanting to improve yours…

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Ashton Hasson

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW,Lactation Educator,Doula
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
5 years of experience

Hi, I'm a Licensed Clinical Therapist in Southern California. I'm a woman of color and mother of three. One of my specialties is maternal mental health as i work with mom's as a Doula pre-birth and after birth . As a therapist I can help a new mom adjust to parenting and possibly manage concerns related to postpartum depression or to her mentaI health concerns that she may be experiencing as it relates to her new role. I have extensive experience working with Trauma and issues that follow such as PTSD, anxiety, depression etc. My job is to support you in making the best decisions for you. You are the master of your life and know yourself much better then I do. I ask that you allow me to be your guide on your journey of self-discovery following this new adjustment in your life. I am not the expert on your life, you are! Hopefully, I can help you look at things from a vantage point you may not have previously been looking. We will discuss your current symptoms and/or issues you are currently experiencing, possible solutions and barriers to utilizing some of the solutions we come up with. We will determine a Treatment plan together and you will decide what a successful completion of treatment will look like. I am available should you decide to go on this journey with me to tackle some of the difficulties you are now experiencing.

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Laura Lien-Mitobe

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Hello and welcome to my profile! My primary goal as a therapist is to provide a client-centered, non-judgmental, caring, supportive, safe space for you to explore experiences, patterns and feelings that may be causing you pain and/or hindering your personal goals and growth. I have been a licensed MFT therapist for over 20 years and worked with people from all lifestyles and cultures. I have experience in a number of therapy modalities and as a teacher. It takes courage to participate in the process of therapy. My wish is to accompany and assist you as you determine the path that leads to a more enriched life. • My experience includes counseling: Individuals, Couples, Families, and Groups Person-centered, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-focused therapies are some of the therapy modalities that I use. But most importantly, the therapy must be tailored to the needs of the client. • Some of the issues that I have helped people with are: Stress, Anxiety and Depression Grief Special interest: Pet loss (It has an unique impact on people who lose a beloved pet) Compassion fatigue (special interest in veterinarians and staff, as well as, others in helping roles) Chemical dependency and Co-dependency Issues with eating Seniors experiencing life transitions Motivational Coaching Parenting

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Tony Thompson

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I have worked for the last 10 years in child welfare services. Currently, I am a licensed clinical social worker and a supervisor for children services. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, substance abuse, parenting issues, trauma, adoption and Foster Care issues, general life concerns and adjustments, domestic violence and many others. I have worked closely with families, teenagers, emancipated youth and children of all walks of life and backgrounds. My counseling style is pretty laid back. I've been described as supportive, caring and compassionate, with a pretty good sense of humor. Usually, I like to focus on identifying your strengths, what has been working well and helping you to maximize those strengths to help overcome your obstacles. I'm here to help you start through the things that are difficult right now and offer you a safe place to be open and honest without fear of judgment. You have taken the first and most important step by reaching out for help. My counseling style is warm, and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with compassion, respect, honesty and I don't believe in judgment, shame or stigmatizing labels. My belief in counseling is that everyone deserves an opportunity for healing, hope and self-confidence. My clinical approach is client centered and combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, solution focused and the recognition of trauma and how it impacts our well-being. I'm also oriented in strength-based practices and other modalities as needed for the purposes of treatment. My goal is to assist and work with individuals to achieve their fullest potential. Seeking counseling can be fearful and overwhelming but I want to encourage you to continue the journey to seek help and regain hope and control over your life. My goal for every client is to gain new perspectives and to develop the skills necessary to live meaningful lives.

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Cynthia Corona Bonilla

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT 126903
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
6 years of experience

Hello, my name is Cynthia and I am a licensed MFT. I specialize in supporting individuals in learning about themselves and developing a sense of self. In addition to helping individuals understand their depression, anxiety, trauma, phobias and much more.

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Shirley Ikenze

Offering therapy in CA
Trauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changesCoachingADHD
24 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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. I believe in the Almighty, whether He is called God, Allah, Buddha, etc. I do not politicize my faith. Please note that I am not a religious extremist in any way, although I call myself a Christian. 2 Corinthians 1:4 "He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.

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Nastasia Freeman

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Hello! I'm Nastasia! Based out of the San Diego area, I offer online adult, teen, and relationship therapy throughout California, Florida, & Texas. I’m a Licensed Psychotherapist with an edge, unapologetically doing what it takes to feel well, and help others do the same. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, attachment, & relationships affected by trauma and PTSD. I take healing personal. It’s a privilege to witness the softening and surrendering of years of destructive beliefs. I’m invested. The most important thing you should know about me is this… I’m a trauma therapist that knows when to put down the manuals, evidence, & interventions and really see the person in front of me—validate your pain, hurt, effort, and culture. It’s about seeing you past a diagnosis. I will be transparent with my you. I’m a therapist that has had my own very personal experience with trauma. I’m a clinical therapist, but I also know what it feels like to be the one sitting on the couch, not in the chair. That is exactly why I have devoted my career and life to healing trauma. I appreciate the vulnerability of the person in front of me, so I honor it. I do so by making sure you have access to a safe space where you feel seen, heard, and understood. I advocate for your right to lead your experience—to define your own well. For treatment to work, I adapt, personalize, empathize, and empower. I’m convinced there is no greater technique or practice than humanity. I have designed my practice & approach to reflect the collectiveness of humankind and living amongst and connecting with others empathetically and with compassion. Therapy gives you the space to safely put down the hurt. I have designed a space for you. A safe space to heal past experiences, relationships, unbalance, uncertainty, and stuck. A space where you are met with empathy, compassion, and support. I facilitate healing—that sought after peace of mind. I want to help you put down the stress, hurt, pain, and shame. I’m here for it. I’m invested in it, and I’m here to help you heal it! I’m a trauma therapist that will advocate for your healing and your right to define your well. —Nastasia Freeman, LMHC, LPCC, LPC Know all the theories, master all the techniques, but as you touch a human soul be just another human soul. - C. G. Jung Credentials: Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of California. Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional. Gottman Leader issued by the Gottman Institute (TGI). Mental Health Experience: Licensed Psychotherapist & Founder of a mental health private practice: I specialize in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, attachment, & relationships affected by trauma and PTSD. I provide individual, relationship, and group therapy. Additionally, I facilitate support groups, workshops, and take an active role in community advocacy and support. Licensed Psychotherapist: I provide individual, relationship, & group therapy as an independent contractor/psychotherapist. School Mental Health Counselor: I provided individual and group mental health counseling in a public high-school setting to students and their families. I primary served those experiencing anxiety, trauma, and grief. Crisis Interventionist: I provided crisis response within a law enforcement agency. I responded and provided support and resources to victims and their families during and following traumatic incidents. Behavioral Therapist: I supported children diagnosed with autism and their families. I utilized applied behavioral analysis principles to improve heath outcomes, behavior challenges, and social behaviors Education: I graduated from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology, and I also hold a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I have extensive post-graduate education, training, and experience in mental health counseling, clinical trauma & PTSD, forensic psychology, crisis intervention, integrative mental health, research-based relationship techniques, youth & school mental health, and behavioral therapy. Membership: American Psychological Association (APA), Division 019 Society for Military Psychology (APA), Division 56 Trauma Psychology (APA), Trauma Survivors Network, National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI), Inclusive Therapists, Florida Counseling Association, Florida Association for Multi-Cultural Counseling and Development (FAMCD), and Florida Association for Child and Adolescent Counseling (FACAC).

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Monica Gutierrez

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf 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 stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Julia Kaluga

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

Hello! Thank you for your interest! I am a Doctor of Psychology, licensed LMFT in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma and abuse, confidence/low self esteem, lgbtq+ related issues, and coping with grief and loss. 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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Linda Rivadeneyra

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
26 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, childhood abuse, difficult family relationships and transitions. I meet with individuals only, no couples or families. I believe that you have strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you, with support from a therapist. 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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How to find counseling in Imperial Beach

Finding the best therapist close by in Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach. 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 Imperial Beach, 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach, elsewhere in San Diego, 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 Imperial Beach area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach, 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach 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 92154 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach, 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.

Imperial Beach 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 Imperial Beach.

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

91932, 91933, 92154

Popular cities near Imperial Beach, CA

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