When it comes to finding a therapist, Chula Vista, CA might seem like an option. Mental health services are typically available in a city, especially one located so near San Diego. However, it’s not always easy to find a therapist, even in a populated area. Mental health concerns can be very different, and manifest differently depending on the individual. There are a number of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, and what is effective for one mental illness may not work as well with another. The type of therapy you need may not be available in your area. Not to mention the importance of working with a therapist with whom you build a good rapport and who makes you feel comfortable. 

Online therapy with a platform like BetterHelp can make truly person-centered therapy possible. BetterHelp offers over 30,000 practitioners in the mental health field, including licensed professional clinical counselors, social workers, psychologists, and family therapists. These professionals specialize in the treatment of a variety of occurring mental illnesses from obsessive compulsive disorder to borderline personality disorder, and any number of co-occurring disorders in between. 

BetterHelp is also a convenient option for many who have difficulty making it to in-person appointments. With video chat, phone, and text messaging options, you can talk with your therapist anywhere, even from residential treatment settings. Busy professionals, students, and members of families experiencing mental health challenges can schedule sessions anywhere and anytime that works for them. 

It can sometimes feel overwhelming to take that first step on your mental health journey. BetterHelp offers a simple, easy, and timely way to get started talking to a licensed mental health professional. If you have been thinking about seeking therapy for any reason, contact BetterHelp to get matched with the right therapist to meet your needs. 

This is Angelique Ellingboe's avatar and link to their profile

Angelique Ellingboe

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

My name is Angelique Ellingboe and I have been working as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for over 30 years in the state of California. I attended San Diego State University where I obtained my MSW and i received my BS in Biological Sciences from the University of California at Irvine. My work experience includes working with clients in a medical/rehabilitation setting and helping them learn to cope with life challenges, low self-esteem, body image issues related to the disease processes, grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety. I also have experience working with the caregivers/family members who are also dealing with adjustment issues, depression, anxiety, guilt, loss and grief. I am also very comfortable and experienced with working with individual's with physical disabilities, cancer and mature adults. My counseling style is compassionate, gentle and I am respectful of diversity. I draw upon Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client Centered Therapy, Solutions Based Therapy, Mindfulness and Somatic Therapy. The approaches I use depend on your needs and the challenges you are experiencing. We will work collaboratively together to help you reach your goals. If you give me the privilege to become your therapist, I will provide you with support, empathetic listening, assistance with goal setting if needed and a safe, non-judgemental environment to provide you with "talk therapy". You have taken the first step towards becoming a happier and healthier you! I look forward to working with you.

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Stephanie Lanza

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
8 years of experience

Hello! My name is Stephanie Lanza. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Southern California. I have over 8 years of experience counseling children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a wide range of concerns including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, ADHD, and family/relationship issues. I also have extensive experience working with adoptive and resource/foster parents and the unique issues they encounter. I take a client centered and strengths based approach to counseling, utilizing components of Cognitive Behavioral, Solutions Focused, and Family Systems therapies to help clients meet their goals. I look forward to working with you!

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Erlynn Cabarles

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
28 years of experience

Hello and thank you for having enough courage and honesty to take the first big step. My name is Erlynn and I have a Master’s in Social Work, concentration in Individuals, Families and Groups from San Francisco. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California since 2015. I received a BA in Psychology, emphasis in Clinical and Developmental Psychology from Santa Cruz. I have 20 plus years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked across a continuum of care from residential, sub-acute day treatment programs, and hospitals focusing on mental health issues, probation, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, family dynamics and conflicts. I have experience working with infants/toddlers, children, adolescents, young adults, people with disabilities, and the elderly. I believe that the first step of healing is self-discovery and the development of personal goals to overcome challenges. My intentions are to instill hope and inspiration and to empower you to be able to move on to a more fulfilling life. Remember that You are resilient and determined to change for the positive. My purpose is to provide a safe space and non-judgmental environment. If you’re ready, I’ll be here to support you!

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Elissa Padilla

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with nearly 10 years of experience in various capacities within the Behavioral Health field as a counselor, a case manager, and a social worker. I enjoy working with everyone from teens to military, and those in between. I also have ample experience working with those impacted by substance use disorders, parenting concerns, past emotional trauma, and anxiety. My therapeutic approach depends on each individual's needs! However, I enjoy using Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused, and Psychodynamic therapies to help clients reach their goals. I strive to create a safe, compassionate environment that is free from judgement, yet also fosters change, acceptance, and growth for all clients. These past couple of years have been difficult for many. Please allow me to commend this first crucial step towards creating a healthier, happier next chapter! I look forward to being a part of your journey.

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Daryl Austin

Offering therapy in CA
Trauma and abuse
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience as a therapist and over 40 years working in the mental health field in varied capacities from beginning as a mental health worker to later on doing case management work in a County Mental Health Outpatient Clinic. I worked earlier in my career in an acute in-patient setting for 4 years. I went back to school in my 50's to get my Master's Degree in Professional Counseling from National University in Fresno, California. My undergraduate degree was in Recreation Administration from Fresno State University. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, as most client's in the County Mental Health System unfortunately have trauma in their background. I use an eclectic therapy approach that is tailored to the individual client. I was the main facilitator for short term Dialectical Behavioral Therapy groups for several years in the county I worked for. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts, feelings, and topics of faith can be shared without fear of judgment. I retired from the County Mental Health system in June 2022. My goal now is to provide and integrate Christian faith into the therapy I provide. It is not mandatory that any client holds the same beliefs as myself, but I desire for individuals that desire faith based treatment have an alternative to secular, humanistic logic and wisdom. I do have experience and training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I am very client centered and supportive. 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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Dr. Susan Fleming

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
18 years of experience

I have worked with families and children for 18 years. I work with children from 3 years old to 22 years old in educational settings stuggling with social skills in educational settings. My specialized area is in high functioning autism and coping skills. I work with adults that have a difficult time with coping skills and anger management. Areas of a high anxiety, depression and grieving issues are areas of expertise as well. I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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 Freda Ayers's avatar and link to their profile

Freda Ayers

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, & coping with life changes. 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 Hannah Lee's avatar and link to their profile

Hannah Lee

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 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. 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 Dr. Joanna Stan's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Joanna Stan

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

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This is Toni Brinson White's avatar and link to their profile

Toni Brinson White

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

Hello, I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find counseling in Chula Vista

Finding the best therapist close by in Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista. 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 Chula Vista, 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista, 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 Chula Vista area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista, 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 91913 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista, 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.

Chula Vista 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 Chula Vista.

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

91902, 91908, 91909, 91910, 91911, 91912, 91913, 91914, 91915, 91921

Popular cities near Chula Vista, CA

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