Safety is important in life. When you're wanting to solve life’s problems, you want the least risk possible. However, doubts and depression can keep you down. There is hope, and that hope comes in the form of a counselor based in Foster City. 

Foster City is a great little place to live, and is ranked as one of the safest cities. However, even if you're physically safe, you need mental security as well. A counselor can help you with that. Speak to a counselor today and learn how you can make yourself stronger and brave what life throws at you. Talk to someone today.

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Linda Vermeulen

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS MFCC,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepressionCompassion fatigue
28 years of experience

From Dreams to The Shadow, the Enneagram to the Imago, clients use their therapy hour to connect to their unconscious, and help discover strengths and weakness. I use the Jungian styled psychodynamic approach, and I work with your Enneagram type and Inner Child dynamics to help drive your life forward. I will help you process anxiety and the stressors that come with changes in your family life, by using many different modalities: mindfulness, feeling work, couples Imago therapy. I work to help you access personal themes toward achieving your individuation. Clients who work with me will learn how to identify and love their Inner Child, use Discovery Logs, and process the Persona, to lead to wholeness of Self. I teach you how to accept yourself, and forgive the past. Psychodynamic work is longer term than most approaches, but don't let that scare 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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Sara Griffith

Offering therapy in CA
License: MFT,IFECMHS
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Hi, my name is Sara Griffith and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Southern California. I have over 25 years of experience working with children and families here and in the Midwest. Most of my experience has been working with individuals and families with infants and young children, either in the adjustment to parenthood, or in the challenges that come with caring for a young child. I also have experience in working with individuals who may be experiencing anxiety or depression, family problems, stress, trauma/abuse and difficulties with relationships. My specialties include maternal mental health, pregnancy and parenthood. My counseling style is positive, nurturing and empowering. Using my intuition and life experience, as well as good clinical judgement, we will work together to get you out of your stuck places. I am an Attachment Focused therapist, so we may talk about how your past relationships affect your present, and how to move on. I may use Solution Focused Therapy to discover your strengths and build on them, Mindfulness to better enjoy the here and now, and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) which is learning how to safely explore your emotions which leads to growth. I am also well-versed in 12 Step Recovery. You can do hard things! And I am here to help you.

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Lesley Schwam

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

My name is Lesley Schwam, I am from Los Angeles, California. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist LMFT since 2015. I began graduate school in 2009 and started earning my counseling hours toward licensure during graduate school. My work experience varies from working with adolescents prior to licensing, to now working with adults 18 years of age and older. My treatment approach is from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Narrative Therapy perspective. I believe individuals have the ability to change behaviors daily and I also believe in helping individuals find solutions to help move forward with life goals. I have experience working with Trauma, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Grief and Loss, as well as Adjustment Disorders and phase of life transitions including finding a new job, a new career, entering retirement, or adjusting to a new role in life. I focus first on self care, coping skills, setting short and long term goals, and learning boundary setting skills, as well as positive communication skills. By setting and reaching goals we learn what we are capable of, and I know each individual person is capable of more than they believe.

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Yang Jiang

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Joyce Tanner

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
30 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified in the following areas: Life and Career Coaching, Family Group Conferences, Couples Communication, and Parent Facilitator with a successful consulting and psychotherapy practice. I have had the experience of practicing extensively in many States in America and more recently provided counseling, and training as a Child and Youth Behavioral Military and Family Life Counselor, working with military individuals and families. One of my niches is assisting blended families in creating healthy relationships and making them work and assessing foster and adoptive families. I am honored to listen to your life stories, witnessing increased self-awareness, be encouraging, and observe the identification of strengths, healing, transformation, and change. I continue to be inspired by the strength, resilience, and grace of our human spirit. I have done extensive work in the areas of grief, trauma, Gestalt, crisis, and stress management, Re-decision Making, self-care, Reality therapy, compassion fatigue, career management, goal setting, family reunification, anxiety, and life transitions. I obtained my Bachelor of Arts degree from Huston-Tillotson University in Austin, Texas, and my Master of Social Work from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, walking, engaging in great conversations, listening to music, singing, playing games, thinking positively, and laughing uncontrollably. I am the mother of three successful daughters. Living in several states and traveling extensively has required me to exert my courage in adjusting to change and enhanced my use of resources and coping skills. I genuinely believe that "No Man is An Island, No Man Stands Alone". As a seasoned mental health professional and educator, I continue to grow and enjoy the myriad of experiences that life offers and want to begin where you are on your life journey.

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Armando Rodriguez

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

Hi! I am Armando Rodriguez. I am a Latino Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I am bilingual and speak both English and Spanish fluently. I have experience helping clients cope with addictions, family conflicts, trauma, and abuse, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I take a psychodynamic and client-centered approach because I believe that clients are the experts of their experience and that early childhood experiences manifest today as maladaptive behaviors. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. The first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life is courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Robert Diaz

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesCareer difficultiesDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & career difficulties. 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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Dusti Romans

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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. 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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Steven Gaddis

Offering therapy in CA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger management
20 years of experience

Greetings! I am a counselor, currently licensed in California and Texas, with approximately 20 years of experience. My experiences include working with individuals to address topics such as anger management, relationship issues, alcohol and other drug related concerns, personal development, and mood disturbances. I have also worked with criminal justice involved individuals. My style primarily utilizes a Cognitive Behavioral perspectives with an understanding that the connection and trust between counselor and client is paramount in an effective and productive partnership. I believe that by working to create a safe and authentic environment the stage is best prepared for creating healthy change and movement towards ones goals. Although the specific methods utilized will be based on individual details and interactions, my interactions are personalized and focused on an individual's strengths. I typically review incoming messages at least twice a day, at least once in the AM and once in the PM. I appreciate you and your interest in counseling as an opportunity to create or maintain the life you envision. I hope to have the opportunity to partner with you in your next steps and I look forward to hearing from and working with you.

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How to find counseling in Foster City

Finding the best therapist close by in Foster City 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 Foster City. 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 Foster City, 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 Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City, elsewhere in San Mateo, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Foster City area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City, 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 Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City 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 94404 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 Foster City 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 Foster City 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 Foster City, 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.

Foster City 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 Foster City.

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

94404

Popular cities near Foster City, CA

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