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. 

This is Dr. Saundra Taulbee's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Saundra Taulbee

Offering therapy in CA
License: D.M.H., LMFT
AddictionsRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesBipolar disorderDepression
30 years of experience

I hear the heartbeat of your spoken and unspoken struggles, as well as your dreams yet to be realized. Together we work to uncover the root cause and triggers that prevent you from being at peace with yourself and others, whether it involves issues of : • addiction, depression - Bi-polar or other mood disorders, ADD • codependency, low self-esteem, • PTSD, problems with anger management or conflict avoidance • problems with emotional and sexual intimacy in marriage. And, then, together we move on to resolve issues you bring so that you can learn to have satisfaction and transformation in your life. My experience spans 25 plus years of working with a wide range of people in private practice and in the mental health system. Not only that, but, my training was as a Doctor of Mental Health in Psychiatry at UCSF Medical Centre, San Francisco, with a 3- year residence, rotating in the crisis clinic, in-patient and out-patient psych units in Mount Zion Hospital, and Langley Porter Hospital, San Francisco, CA. Through this magnificent training I learned to grasp the delicate balance between the mind-body duo, and, subsequently I became adept at diagnosis and treatment, including ascertaining one's need for medication as an adjunct to the talk therapy. I am also trained in theology, having earned an M.Div. degree from Fuller Theological Seminary. Above all, if you choose to work with me - you will gain an ally in your recovery - who is authentic, transparent, and, who will walk with you to the culmination of your treatment. My treatment approach is psychoanalytic. And, thus, I believe we all suffer hurts, habits and hang-ups from the past, which are at the root of our struggles that go back to unfinished business with family of origin. However, I also integrate facets of cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy, as the need presents. Furthermore, I am a Christian with a worldview that is biblically based. And, so, I hear the “God void” that lies within the heart of all humankind which we seek to fill with other things. This means that while my counsel will never conflict with the authority of Scripture, I will not proselytize. With that said, I have and will continue to see anyone who chooses to work with me as their therapist, regardless of whether you have a religious affiliation or none. Last, I am also an author who wrote a book based on case histories of nine patients who gave me permission to tell their stories, interspersed with vignettes from my own life - about how to overcome the struggles with which we all suffer. My nascent book, entitled, "You Can't Heal A Wound By Saying It's Not There", 2nd edition, is an overview of how what I have described above helps people heal and move on with their lives, so that they can help someone else be better - one person at a time. Are you willing to begin a journey with me of overcoming the past and embracing your God-given future?

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This is Shaakira McMillon's avatar and link to their profile

Shaakira McMillon

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

Hello, Welcome! Thank you for choosing BetterHelp. You have taken an important step toward prioritizing your mental health and wellness. My name is Shaakira McMillon. I am a licensed therapist (LCSW) in the state of California. I have been a Social Worker for 7 years. I am passionate about helping others and creating a safe space for clients and families. Throughout my career, I have assisted clients coping with a wide variety of issues/concerns including but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, caregiver fatigue, burnout, family conflict, grief, intimacy issues, addiction, and work-life balance concerns. I utilize Motivational Interviewing, CBT, Solution- Focused Techniques, Art, and other therapeutic tools to help clients identify meaningful and achievable goals. I enjoy helping others and would greatly appreciate the opportunity to assist you. It would be a privilege to walk alongside you in healing journey. Please feel free to reach out to me regarding any questions/concerns/inquiries.

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Stephen Creel

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

Stephen Creel is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. A graduate of Pepperdine University, Stephen earned his Masters in Clinical Psychology with Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy in April 2001. Since then, Stephen has worked primarily in Substance use treatment but also has extensive experience in issues of Co-dependency, Depression and Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Grief and Trauma. In his work in Substance Use Recovery, Stephen became aware that the vast majority of addiction disorders are predicated with some type of trauma. Thus, in 2019 Stephen underwent training to provide EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to trauma patients. This is a powerful, evidenced based therapy to help people recover from traumatic experiences. In addition to EMDR, Stephen uses a variety of techniques including Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Family Systems approach. Stephen aims to provide a safe and caring environment in which to help his clients gain freedom and relief from the difficulties they are experiencing.

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This is Dr. Ron Muchnick's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Ron Muchnick

Offering therapy in CA
License: PhD, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoaching
25 years of experience

For the past twenty five years, I have been a licensed marriage and family therapist, a professor and consultant, serving in many professional arenas including director of a counseling center, clinical supervisor, and therapist for individuals, couples, and families. Working from a Systemic perspective, I treat problems such as relationship issues, family conflicts, depression, ADHD, parenting issues, anxiety/stress, depression, and substance abuse keeping in mind how these stressors impact relationships. My additional expertise is in assisting couples and families to improve their relationships, learn positive coping skills and find the flexibility needed to adapt to family life cycle changes including divorce and blended families. My therapy style is warm, comfortable and inviting providing a safe place to air problems and restore healthy mental and emotional functioning. My personal challenge is to connect with people in collaborative relationships which inspire and support my clients to access their strengths, create possibilities, and attain their goals. This commitment transcends my work as a therapist, educator, and consultant. I am also the founder of Parent University, a grant program created for school districts to help parents and their children resolve educational and relationship challenges. I have strong beliefs in the importance of constructive and productive parenting skills and believe that parents provide the leadership for all family members to grow and thrive. I have been a professor at several Universities and a core faulty member at Capella University since 2001, first serving as the Clinical Director of the Counselor Education Program for several years. I have earned several degrees including both a MS and PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University as well as a MA in Marketing. As a licensed MFT in California, I have been active in the profession for over 25 years in private practice working with individuals, couples and families. My numerous publications and presentations have focused on clinical practice issues and personal coaching. My book Self Coaching, How to S.O.L.V.E. personal and professional problems, reflects my interest in the Solution Focus Brief Therapy model and its use in working with clients. My most recent book At the End of the Day helps the reader connect with their existing strengths and abilities that have become lost in the midst of being problem drenched. By using a Solution focused approach in their problem solving efforts, my clients become able to “remember” their past successes and how to best use their existing abilities and skills to attain their personal goals. In addition to being a Marriage and Family Therapist, I also have over thirty years of sales, marketing, managerial and motivational experience. My career represents both a clinical and business background working in executive positions of major corporations, owning my own beverage distribution company, and growing a large clinical practice (Counseling Solutions). The blending of these various perspectives and talents has allowed me to become an innovator in developing creative organizational environments. I am also the founder of Solution Focus Consulting which specializes in executive coaching, achieving personal excellence, team building and sales and marketing innovations. I look forward to working with you in resolving your existing problem issues and helping facilitate the successful attainment of your goals. SPECIALTIES • Relationship issues • Family conflicts • Depression • ADHD • Parenting issues • Career difficulties • Stress, Anxiety Clinical approaches: Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Family Systems, Client Centered Years of Experience: 25 ________________________________________

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Rosa Ogas

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in a variety of social work settings. I am experienced and trained to work within multicultural communities, facilitating problem resolution, providing behavioral intervention services, and working with all age groups. I am bicultural and speak fluent Spanish. I have experience and understanding of issues related to acculturation, acculturation guilt, and family systems issues. I have experience providing therapy using cognitive behavioral therapy, client centered therapy and trauma focused therapy dialectical behavioral therapy as well as mindfulness therapy and interventions to support clients. I have supported clients with a variety of issues related to anxiety, depression, self-injurious behaviors, post traumatic stress disorder, parenting and impulse control issues. I provide a strength based approach to therapy and am able to support clients to build and develop tools to help them better cope with the issues that bring them to therapy.

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This is Amy Stoffel's avatar and link to their profile

Amy Stoffel

Offering therapy in CA
Trauma and abuseSelf esteem
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse as well as 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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This is Seán Harrington's avatar and link to their profile

Seán Harrington

Offering therapy in CA
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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!

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This is Denise Lowery's avatar and link to their profile

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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This is Robyn Norris's avatar and link to their profile

Robyn Norris

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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This is Blancandrea Molina's avatar and link to their profile

Blancandrea Molina

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping 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, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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 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 91933 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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