Haesue Jo
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in the Bay Area, California. My experience comes from providing direct mental health and behavioral counseling for kids, teens, and adults with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, relationship and family issues, trauma, community violence, gender identity, and depression. I approach the therapeutic relationship with an acute sensitivity and respect for multi/cross-cultural factors. Much of my clinical experience includes working with Asian-American youth, families, and adults given my firsthand experience navigating generational and cultural differences in my own family (a mixture of immigrants and Asian-Americans). Representation for minority groups in the broader world of mental health is still very small, and my own professional goals include creating more intersection between my personal knowledge of eastern cultures and professional experience in providing mental health support. My experience is varied and across settings, as I have provided individual and family therapy in community mental health agencies, research centers, school settings, and day treatment facilities. I believe that we are all products of our closest relationships, our environment, our family systems, and every moment that leads to the present us. I strive to treat the therapeutic relationship, and you, with compassion, respect, and warmth. My therapy style and approach draws influence from Gestalt, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Structural systems. A top priority for me is to meet you where you are and calibrate treatment and my approach to what will work best for us as we work together to meet your goals. Whether you are working towards enlightenment and insight or symptom-relief and improved function, my hope is that we can collaboratively work together to achieve it! It takes a lot of strength and will power to work towards a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. Education BA in Psychology, UCLA MA in Counseling Psychology, Santa Clara University Professional Affiliations and Credentials California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists Certified Trauma-Informed Therapist by the California Center of Excellence for Trauma Informed Care
Jennie Jensen
Hi, my name is Michelle Jensen and I'm glad you've taken the first step in seeking therapy. It can be a difficult thing to trust a stranger with your most intimate thoughts, feelings and concerns. I can assure you that I never judge. I am there for you, to help you through whatever the issue/issues might be in your life. I have a license in Marriage and Family Therapy, which means I can help with just about any kind of issue, not just marriages and family issues. I have been practicing professionally for 7 years, and the approaches I use in therapy are CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Solution Focus Therapy, Psychotherapy, Mindfulness Practices, and Person-Centered Therapy. I work with many emotional and behavioral issues including depression, anxiety, grief/loss, woman’s health issues, post-traumatic stress disorder, attention deficit, low self-esteem, motivational issues, confidence issues, personal growth, meaning of life questions, concerns of self-image, and building leadership skills. I am passionate about helping people gain knowledge and skills that they need to improve their lives. I am passionate about helping clients uncover blocked stuck feelings, and giving them a space to feel safe in.
Alison Murphy
Hi, my name is Alison. If you're here, that means you're looking for something, and I'd love to help. Congratulations on taking a huge step in thinking about asking for support. Over the years, I've helped lots of people at many different stages of their life work to have more control, more safety and more stability. Whether you are dealing with something new, a long term challenge, or if you just know something's not right and you can't put a finger on it, we should talk. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from California and my work with individuals and couples has been to support people in cultivating tools to improve how they manage the challenges they are facing. I'm an experienced therapist who has worked with diverse individuals around issues of trauma, depression, grief & loss, anxiety, substance abuse and interpersonal difficulties. My work with individuals is centered around the goals we develop together to improve their relationships, coping skills and emotional experiences. I approach the work with an open mind, an open heart and without judgement. You are the expert in your experience and I am here to help you identify where we can focus your energy to maximize your use of therapy. Together, we can use my clinical experience and training to personalize interventions that make the most sense for your individual goals. You should know that I attended San Francisco State University for my bachelors in Social Work (2005) as well as my for Masters in Social Work (2007) which provided a strong foundation in the value of Social Justice which is integrated into all my clinical work. My approach to this work is also guided by the ethical guidelines of the National Association of Social Workers and promotes self-determination, respect for others and the importance of human relationships. Since my work is based in these principles, if we work together, I promise you will feel seen, you will feel safe and you will feel better. Thank you for reading, I look forward to hearing from you.
Felicia Burnett-Lopez
My name is Felicia Burnett-Lopez, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working in the mental health field for over ten years. I earned my Bachelors’ Degree in Psychology and earned my Masters’ Degree in Social Work. My education and experience include human behavior; environmental and biological psychology, substance abuse and addiction; understanding and working in mental health, with people with mental illnesses, within all populations. I chose the field of social work and specifically mental health, since everyone, including myself have life issues, whether they are work related or personal in nature. Being able to have someone who is unbiased and trained to help you process your thoughts, and become part of your support system, is why I chose this career. I enjoy the use of the psychodynamic approach, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, solution focused therapy, and client-centered-therapy, which are all evidenced based practices. My use of these modalities depends on the needs of my client, as treatment is individually tailored to fit the clients needs. I believe that the client is the expert of themselves, and my role as your counselor is to help you better understand yourself, and help you get to a place where you are a happier and healthier version of yourself. The one thing I ask of my clients, is to be genuine, as I will always be genuine with you. Feel safe to vent your true feelings, as I will not judge you! Counseling only works if the client is willing and committed to actively participating in the therapeutic process. I look forward to working with you and helping you improve the quality of your life!
Margaret Reul
Thank you for taking the time to invest in your mental health. In today's world of ever-increasing stressors, it is more important than ever to take care of our bodies and minds. The therapeutic process can be a wonderful tool whether you are in crisis, or looking for answers and meaning in your life. There has long been stigma surrounding taking care of your mental health and I am glad that those barriers are beginning to fade away as more people become aware of the benefits therapy can provide. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worked practicing in the state of California (License Number: LCSW75171). I earned my Bachelor's Degree at UC Santa Barbara and then went on to earn my Masters in Social Work Degree at Cal State Los Angeles. I have an extensive background in helping individuals and families deal with a variety of mental health and medical concerns. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, or problems with friends, family or work, there is no problem too big or too small to discuss in therapy. I have experience helping those with Serious Mental Illness as well as those looking for a mental health tune-up. I also have experience helping first-responders, particularly in dealing with the struggles of facing COVID-19 head on. I want to help you discover what goals you want to set for yourself, and then help you achieve those goals. You are in the driver's seat to guide your life to a place that brings you self-awareness, peace and happiness. I prefer a Solution-Focused therapeutic approach that helps you quickly start the path to feeling relief from your specific stressors. I look forward to beginning our journey together. I specialize in evening and weekend sessions to help you fit therapy into your busy life.
Lynn Vinson
Hi - My name is Lynn Vinson, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 10 years of professional work experience as a licensed therapist. I have been a social worker for over 20 years in other areas such as child protective social worker, hospital social worker, social worker in 2 psychiatric health facilities in 2 states, private practice and most recently as a psychotherapist in a family health clinic. In my spare time I worked as an after hours crisis intervention member of a team specializing in crisis triage. I provide therapy to mostly adults but I also enjoy helping teenagers. My style is eclectic, utilizing cognitive behavioral, mindfulness and positive psychology techniques. I am non judgemental and provide an environment of acceptance and trust. I have faith based values without imposing on others. SPECIALTIES: Pre-weight loss surgery consultation and therapy ( I had weight loss surgery myself in 2004) Anxiety/Depression Relationship problems Life transitions and aging issues (I am 73) Support for caregivers Grief and Loss Guilt and Shame Adults Molested As Children Experience: 10 plus years as a therapist, 20 plus years as a social worker for children and their parents, worked in 2 psychiatric hospitals. 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. Thank Your for considering me as your therapist.
Alena Kaldunski
Hello there! I'm Alena Kaldunski! I have over 6 years of experience in the field of counseling and mental health therapy. If you are seeing this, then I am glad you have taken the first steps towards seeking to improve your life and personal experience. I would be glad to help be a part of cooperative effort between the two of us. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. I have a Masters degree in Counseling and am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist through the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. My counseling style is an interactive blend of education and reframing to help you explore and understand your own values, assumptions, and ideals in a non-judgmental and open conversation.
Pascale Dellefield
I am licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in California since 2016. I have 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients on a spectrum that ranges from mindfulness, anxiety disorders, depression, grief and loss, compassion fatigue, to crisis management, homelessness, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and overall coping with life changes. I am heart centered with a warm approach and make every effort to help my clients reconnect with what matters most to them in their lives. I have experience working with clients who present as individuals, couples, children, teenagers, veterans, military families on deployment, older adults, LGBTqia, and or groups. I am open minded, have good values, and I am well versed in theology and spirituality. I have an understanding of the struggles of immigrants, and a deep respect for the need for multicultural and ethnic integration into our society. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, sensitivity, and compassion. I speak English, French, Lebanese-Arabic, and some Spanish, however I only conduct therapy in English. I have traveled and lived in multiple countries. I have survived a war and know how to thrive and overcome trauma through Meditation and Mindfulness. I am trained in Mindfulness, Meditation, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I have also found that reading and skill building homework can be very powerful resources to add to therapy. I am the author and illustrator of the book “Being With Heart: How to Thrive in Life With A Tender Heart.” I tailor our dialogue 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. Thank you for reaching out to me. I look forward to us working together in therapy.
Cindy Guerrero
I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Meredith Craig
I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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.
How to find counseling in Scotts Valley
Finding the best therapist close by in Scotts Valley 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 Scotts Valley. 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 Scotts Valley, 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 Scotts Valley 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 Scotts Valley 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 Scotts Valley, elsewhere in Santa Cruz, 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 Scotts Valley area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Scotts Valley 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 Scotts Valley 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 Scotts Valley 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 Scotts Valley, 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 Scotts Valley 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 Scotts Valley 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 Scotts Valley 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:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment therapy
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
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 Scotts Valley 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 Scotts Valley 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 95066 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 Scotts Valley 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 Scotts Valley 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 Scotts Valley, 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.
Scotts Valley 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Scotts Valley:
95066