Being near the Pacific Ocean can be great, but sometimes the ocean in your head can be tough to traverse. Luckily, with the help of a counselor in Pacifica, you’ll be able to easily create the life that you want.

Pacifica is actually spread along a 6-mile stretch of beaches all along the coast, and it even has small valleys. It’s a popular surfing location, with many visiting because of how fun it is. You can ride the waves of life in your own way, and with the help of a counselor, it’s definitely possible. 

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Aviva Euripides

Offering therapy in CA
License: M.A.,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

Hello, I am Aviva Euripides and I am pleased to meet you here. Our clinical work involves tracking and assessing how it assists you in meeting your goals. This solution focused work is thus overall practical but is rooted in academic and clinical rigor. I graduated from the University of California at Berkeley and attended New College of California where the focus was on meeting the clinical needs of a diverse community with relevance and meaning. I have supervised and trained clinicians in treatment settings ranging from the counselor's office to acute mental health facilities. This has led to a deep understanding of clinical work. My specializations include depression, anxiety, life changes, self esteem, career and relationships. These are all human issues and are in need sometimes of clinical intervention as a tool and resource. The work begins with me listening carefully to where the pieces are at in your puzzle at this time. This allows for us to consider rearrangement and repositioning to best work for you. I have extensive experience providing counseling via telephone and online platforms and thus feel quite comfortable doing so. While this may be new to some it may resemble other aspects of life online in significant ways. Like counseling, it just takes some getting used to. I typically have appointments available via live chat between 10 am and 4 pm Monday-Friday and appointments available early mornings and weekends via video/phone session.

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Cynthia Moreno

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

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California with over 13 years of experience providing counseling to individuals and families. I offer a nurturing and accepting space to begin or continue your journey of personal and relational growth. My extensive experience working with diverse populations within various community mental health systems makes me especially effective with those who are new to therapy and those who are hesitant or unsure about how to start. My gentle, supportive, and strength-based approach provides a safe space to for you to grow. Mood disturbances (like depression), anxiety, trauma symptoms, and relational issues are my specialty. I work from a systems perspective and address problems with consideration of contextual and cultural factors. I believe strongly in the human capacity to use existing internal and external resources to improve one's quality of life. I am looking forward to working with you to clarify your therapy goals and develop a treatment plan unique to your needs and desired outcomes.

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Theresa Leal

Offering therapy in CA
Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Sean Bezdek

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepression
23 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & intimacy related issues. 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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Lisha Singleton

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteem
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Michael Alexander

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, anger management, & 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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Michael Jones

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionADHD
23 years of experience

I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 23 years of experience, proudly serving the diverse state of California. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working in various settings, from private practice to community mental health agencies, outpatient, and inpatient facilities. My passion lies in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges. Whether it's anxiety, mood disorders, attention issues, or matters related to family dynamics, relationships, or LGBTQ+ concerns, I'm here to provide the support and guidance you need. I have a specialized focus on treating panic disorder and OCD. These conditions can be particularly challenging, and I have dedicated myself to developing effective strategies for addressing them. My therapeutic approach is rooted in warmth, compassion, and respect. I believe in the power of mindfulness and draw from cognitive-behavioral, existential, and psychodynamic therapy techniques. Together, we'll explore your unique journey and work towards finding the answers that are already within you. I view therapy as a collaborative process, where my role is to facilitate your self-discovery and growth. I treat every client with unwavering respect, dignity, and sensitivity. Your unique experiences and perspectives are valued in our therapeutic relationship, and I am committed to creating a safe, inclusive space where you can explore, heal, and thrive. I look forward to joining you on this transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Together, we can unlock your potential and pave the way to a more fulfilling and happier life.

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Antoine Heard

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. I believe silence is a barrier to healing and we all can overcome the challenges in our life with the proper support. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for choosing you! Let's get started!

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Bonni Funk

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
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, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Lindsey Hersh

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefEating disordersDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience in the school setting and in private practice. I have experience in helping clients with stress, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, eating disorders and more. 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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How to find counseling in Pacifica

Finding the best therapist close by in Pacifica 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 Pacifica. 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 Pacifica, 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica, elsewhere in San Mateo, 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 Pacifica area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica, 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 94044 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica, 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.

Pacifica 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 Pacifica.

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

94044

Popular cities near Pacifica, CA

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