Solana Beach is a quiet coastal town, but even so everyone has their troubles. Even though the coastal city of Solana Beach is quiet and peaceful most of the time, people are bound to run into problems in their personal lives. You do not have to suffer through these troubles alone.

Counselors in the Solana Beach area are available to talk to you about your personal, mental or emotional troubles. They can provide support and coping skills to help you through any time in your life. Contact a therapist to get started.

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Charlene Selsvold

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

Hello, Asking for help takes courage and intention. I am a well seasoned licensed clinical social worker in California with extensive experience in working with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, grief, depression, life transitions, trauma and relationship challenges. Each of us is on a life journey that presents unique challenges. Sometimes feelings emerge that we do not understand or know how to cope with. I offer a supportive environment with unconditional positive regard for your healing journey. We all have a story to tell and sometimes it is simply learning how to be more mindful and responding differently that creates a positive change. Over the past 30+ years, I have developed an integrative approach to the therapeutic journey that encompasses traditional psychotherapies such as cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, mindfulness and psychodynamic modalities. This is complemented by alternative therapies such as breathing techniques from yoga and meditation. I have been a registered yoga teacher, 200 hrs, since 2008. The approaches used are defined by you as we dialogue, using what will work best for you. I will work collaboratively with you, addressing Issues that are defined by you with the goal of decreasing symptoms, increasing healthy coping skills, improving interpersonal communication, and developing a more mindful awareness and alignment of mind/body/spirit. If you are ready to take the step to ask for help in your life journey, I would be humbled to hear from you and begin the therapeutic process of reaching your goals.

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Negin Didehbani

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
9 years of experience

Hello! My name is Negin and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT). I have over eight years of experience in working with mental health and substance use concerns. I have worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings including: crisis facilities, residential facilities, non-profit organizations, correctional facilities and outpatient behavioral health centers. I work with clients to address their specific needs and identified goals. I understand that each client's personal journey is unique, therefore, my approach is tailored to fit each individual’s particular needs. I have a passion for emotional healing that improves relationships and the overall quality of daily experiences for each individual and family. My therapy style is person centered and supportive yet direct. I do my best to guide my clients into gaining insight into the causes of their problems. I am adept in working with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, dual- diagnosis, self-esteem, couples counseling, family therapy, and acute mental health disorders. My approach to therapy is to give clients the tools and skills they need to achieve their goals, personal growth, and find purpose and meaning. In my clinical work, I utilize a variety of interventions from a few different evidence based modalities to best address your needs. I particularly enjoy utilizing interventions from cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, solution focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. I look forward to working with you!

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Sarah Garlick

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersParenting issues
3 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Sarah Garlick and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I have experience working with clients from many different backgrounds both in program settings and in private practice. I graduated from Boston University, with a Master's in Clinical Social Work in 1999. I believe the first step to any successful therapy is creating a safe and supportive environment for the client. Within a trusting therapeutic relationship there is the opportunity for exploration and growth to occur. I strive to work collaboratively with my clients to overcome the barriers that keep them from having more fulfilling lives. I teach my clients concrete skills that they can use to deal with current issues, and challenges that may occur in the future. I provide compassionate solution-focused psychotherapy. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, but tailor my approach to best meet the needs of my clients. My areas and issues of special interest include: - Insomnia - Anxiety - Parenting and Co-parenting - Building self confidence/self esteem - Depression - Trauma recovery - Life transitions

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Olena Prokopenko

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LPCC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California with 7 years of clinical experience counseling individuals in private practice, non-profit organizations, and community clinics. I have worked with clients on a variety of mental health issues and personal issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, addictions, relationship issues, sleeping issues, pregnancy and parenting concerns, sleeping issues, etc. I love helping clients transition into new careers and discover their purpose in life. My goal in my counseling is to help my clients live deeply fulfilling lives and reach their full potentials. How that goal is achieved depends on my client's individual needs. I listen attentively and with compassion to concerns and collaborate with my clients on meeting their unique therapy objectives. My therapeutic orientation comes from a background in Jungian therapy, existential view of life, mindfulness training, extensive hypnotherapy experience, and evidence-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy experiential processes. My work always includes a view of transpersonal aspects of reality including expansion of your view beyond the ego-personality and achieving higher states of consciousness. I believe that if you are here reading this, you are on your personal development journey and are ready to choose the direction of your life more intentionally and with greater clarity. I’m here to guide you on your path to fulfillment.

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Niesha Turner

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
20 years of experience

Feeling stressed, overwhelmed, worried, anxious or sad. Allow me to listen unconditionally and assist you in dealing with the unique challenges that you are facing. With over 20 years of experience in the social service field I bring an array of unique training. I am a Professional Counselor licensed in the state of Georgia with 14 years of experience specializing in the treatment of adults, adolescents and families. My specialties consist of anxiety, depression, parenting difficulties, women issues, career challenges, life change and past issues of abuse or neglect. In addition to providing trauma informed care I utilizing a holistic approach treating the whole person by incorporating Cognitive behavioral therapy, Family systems therapy and the integration of DBT skills.

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Muang Kistler

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 8 years of professional social work experience, primarily in healthcare. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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John David Del Castillo

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
8 years of experience

Hey! I'm JD, a dedicated and compassionate therapist committed to helping you navigate life's challenges and achieve personal growth. With almost 10 years of experience in the field of mental health, I have honed my skills and developed a deep understanding of various therapeutic approaches to support my clients effectively. It begins and ends with trust and throughout our time together we'll be building towards that relationship thereby maximizing our time together. Throughout my career, first in the military, I've had the privilege of working with diverse populations, including individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and more. Now whether it's in private practice, community organizations, or clinical settings, I've encountered a wide range of mental health concerns, each presenting unique opportunities for growth and healing. I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from the University of Southern California (USC), specializing in Jungian psychology. Additionally, I am certified in both Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and the Gottman Method through the Gottman Love Institute. My academic journey at USC and beyond provided me with a comprehensive understanding of social work principles, psychoanalytic theories, and behavioral modification techniques. This specialized training has equipped me with a diverse toolkit to address the complex psychosocial needs of individuals across diverse populations. My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Psychodynamic Therapy, EMDR, and the Gottman. I believe in tailoring my approach to meet the individual needs and preferences of each client, recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to mental health challenges. Central to my practice is the cultivation of a safe and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly. I strive to foster a collaborative relationship built on trust, empathy, and mutual respect, guiding clients on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. I am passionate about helping clients tap into their innate resilience and strengths, empowering them to overcome obstacles and lead more fulfilling lives. By providing guidance, support, and evidence-based interventions, I aim to assist clients in developing coping strategies, improving self-awareness, enhancing interpersonal relationships, and fostering a greater sense of well-being. Whether you're struggling with overwhelming emotions, navigating life transitions, or seeking personal development, I am here to accompany you on your therapeutic journey. Together, we can work towards overcoming challenges, unlocking your full potential, and creating positive change that lasts.

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Marquita Dempsey

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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. 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. Respectfully, Marquita Dempsey

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Bethanie Schmoeller

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
23 years of experience

If you are challenged by life stress, anxiety, depression, past trauma, or relationship issues, and looking for an experienced psychotherapist, I am here to help. With over 23 years of experience, my therapeutic approach is a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (here and now) psychodynamic (past experiences) and Positive Psychology. I am committed to helping you improve your health and well-being while providing fresh, positive coping skills to guide you to reducing your distress and suffering.​ We will identify your strengths that will get you through the challenges of life in today's environment. I will work with you to create an open and safe place where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.

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Sean Becker

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW, CCTP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

My name is Sean and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Oregon with 10 years of experience working as a clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist. I have worked with individuals experiencing a wide range of challenges that include depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, Bipolar mania, and addiction. I have helped people find what's important to them so they find a new sense of joy in their life. My counseling style is to start where you are right now. I approach every situation with curiosity and sense of respect, sensitivity, and compassion, with your journey. I don't believe are people have labels. We are all trying our best and sometimes need to make ourselves a little better. I like to identify peoples strengths and find ways for you to build that to overcome the challenges your are facing today or in the future. It is scary to start therapy, trust me I know I've done it a few times. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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How to find counseling in Solana Beach

Finding the best therapist close by in Solana 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 Solana 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 Solana 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 Solana 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 Solana 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 Solana 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 Solana Beach area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Solana 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 Solana 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 Solana 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 Solana 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 Solana 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 Solana 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 Solana 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 Solana 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 Solana 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 92014 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 Solana 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 Solana 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 Solana 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.

Solana 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 Solana Beach.

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

92014, 92075

Popular cities near Solana Beach, CA

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