Are you ready to reach your opportunity? Some people are ready to do so, while others may feel like they're not ready just yet. When they’re dealing with anxiety, depression, and everything else life has to offer, it can be a challenge. A counselor based in Gardena can be able to help you. 

Gardena’s motto is “The City of Opportunity.” You can find your purpose in life here, but sometimes, you need the help of someone in order to do so. A counselor can help you do just that. Speak to a counselor today and see how they can help you.

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Heidi Summers

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

Hello! Thank you for considering the possibility of working together! My name is Heidi and I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for more than 20 years, having received my Master of Science degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology in 1998 from California State University, San Bernardino. I am licensed in California. I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and trained in trauma treatment. My professional experience includes individual and group therapy with adults whose issues include being survivors of childhood sexual abuse and victims of sexual assault and domestic violence as well as concerns of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, parenting, relationships, and life changes. My counseling style is empathetic and accepting. My goal is to create a safe and warm environment where clients feel respected and supported in a confidential setting. I use an eclectic approach to therapy using various therapeutic orientations. On a personal note, I'm married with four adult children and six grandchildren. I suffered the loss of my first husband to cancer at age 30 which left me a single parent with three very young, grieving children, while managing my own grief . I remarried several years later to a career US Marine which required relocating several times over the years. I had a fourth child, and with multiple extended deployments of my husband, I was often, in essence, a single parent again. I have found that my varied life experiences have enabled me a unique understanding of many of the issues my clients are facing. Thank you for taking the time to read about my experience. I hope that you will consider working with me!

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Sara Markham

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Combining empathy and intuition to understand every person and each situation, my goal is to support my clients with the compassion and genuine care that they deserve, taking into account their struggles, goals, hopes, desires, and histories. For me, it’s about building quality, unique and profound relationships with my clients, allowing me to give them the confidence to show them that change is, in fact, possible. I understand that every person is unique. Using a combination of therapy techniques, I am able to really meet my clients on a personal level, helping them clarify goals, find their self-confidence and become effective and intentional with their relationships. With a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy and licensed in the state of California (44317), I have worked as a Marriage Counselor and Therapist for over 15 years, guiding individuals toward their goals, and watching as they achieve amazing strides in their relationships, in their workplace, and in their lives. We aim to work on communication skills, opening doors and creating effective ways to voice needs so you can be truly understood in all aspects of your life. Because of the approach I use, my experience, knowledge and passion for every client, I am able to empathize and understand each on a deeper level, allowing every client to feel change, even after the very first psychotherapy session. That is because I believe it’s not just about you and me, you and your spouse, or you and others, it’s about building a quality relationship with yourself, allowing for more clarity, understanding and appreciation. In this way, you can truly make the changes you wish to see, and see the improvements you never thought you could reach. This research is valuable for working with the clients I work with to foster new insight into their concerns and find solutions. The quality of the therapeutic relationship and empathic attunement lead those with relationship issues to think about their issues and how they need to change their interactions. Clients with eating disorders are supported in their search for understanding the function of their eating disorder and are guided through their recovery. As they recover, they will be able to think more clearly as their brains are getting the nourishment they need to stay healthy. Teens are unique in the kind of attunement they need and what they respond to. Through years of working with teens, I have been able to find a way of building rapport with them to influence change. When they feel understood and heard, they can make positive steps. I have been utilizing principles of research on the brain and the power of the mind in changing the structure and function of the brain. Through focusing attention on our internal world we are able to gain empathy and understanding for others allowing them to feel empathic attunement. Feeling attuned to can help one gain insight and understanding into their own internal processes which can cause one to change stuck and dysfunctional ways of relating. This process called Mindsight can actually change the course of your relationships and integrate areas of your history, beliefs, or trauma that weren’t integrated before. When we are able to modify our internal world we can change our patterns of relating to a more harmonious way of interacting. The therapeutic relationship is the conduit for increasing Mindsight and being able to look at the areas that are in need of the most attunement. Therapy with empathic attunement gives clients what they need in order to create change which is empowering for clients. This research is valuable for working with the clients I work with to foster new insight into their concerns and find solutions. The quality of the therapeutic relationship and empathic attunement lead those with relationship issues to think about their issues and how they need to change their interactions.

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Kristie Preston

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Family conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. My early experience was working with children, adolescents and families. Recently, I have been working with clinical leaders providing clinical consultation, mentoring, professional development and coaching. I have worked with clients on a range of challenges from self-esteem, family dynamics, life changes, professional development and more. My therapeutic approach is a combination of person-centered and solution-focused with motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral interventions as well. I believe everyone has the strength to work through the challenges they may face and my goal is to help you find that those strategies. I work with each person to find the approach that works best for them as everyone has unique needs. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and help you reach your goals.

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Amy Durst

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
11 years of experience

Life can be overwhelming and full of challenges. I believe we all have the need for a little help at times; someone who listens without judgment and encourages personal growth. I focus on providing compassionate, quality counseling and support individuals in developing new tools to better address troubling issues.

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Ryan Lisman

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

Hello, my name is Ryan Lisman and I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBT-related issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence among many other categories. I currently also work as a Psychotherapist and Drama therapist at the Huntington Hospital's mental health unit in Pasadena, California. I primarily utilize a humanistic therapy approach that aims to be client-centered, allowing you to guide the therapy process with unconditional positive regard and cater to your therapeutic needs. I'm trained in a variety of modalities, so please feel free to let me know what therapy style and techniques you would like to explore with me. I am also registered as a Drama Therapist, which allows for an embodied and creative approach to Therapy. I want to commend you for taking the brave steps to pursuing therapy. As a long-term therapy client myself, my therapy process transformed my life in a profound way and I'm deeply passionate about helping to give others that same opportunity for growth.

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Marisa Katzman

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hello! My name is Marisa and I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker (LCSW) in the state of California and Licensed Independent Social Worker in the state of South Carolina (LISW). I have ten years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with overcoming/coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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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Samantha Kerdman

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
10 years of experience

I'm here to support you throughout your therapeutic journey. My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, rediscover your strengths, and achieve your individual or relationship goals. I offer a safe and supportive therapeutic environment, where we collaboratively search for new solutions using empirically based therapeutic treatment.

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This is Erin Eiland's avatar and link to their profile

Erin Eiland

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) licensed in California with over 5 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, and families. Most recently, I was working with children, teens, and families in foster care/adoption cases their homes and at school providing individual therapy, family therapy, and crisis support services. I have experience in working with clients that have a wide range of concerns including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse, ADHD, anger management, and relationship issues. My approach to therapy is client-centered, strength-based, solution-focused, and individualized to the client’s interests, values, goals, and strengths. I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in sessions, and art activities/interventions when appropriate. I am always open to adjusting sessions to fit the person’s needs and preferences. I look forward to working with you!

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Jill Dutra

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California with several years of professional work experience. I have worked for a community counseling center and for the Juvenile Justice Mental Health department focusing on adolescents and their families dealing with drug and alcohol abuse and family systems. I also have experience in private practice treating individuals and couples along with running motivational women's groups. My focus is helping clients work through personal obstacles while reaching for their individual goals. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My therapy approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral, Dialectical Behavior and different variations of Humanistic Therapy. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling, happy life and to sign up for therapy. If you are ready to take that next step to start therapy, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Priscilla Conkrite's avatar and link to their profile

Priscilla Conkrite

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesAnger managementDepression
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. My areas of expertise are: Premarital and Marital issues, Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Grief, Loss and Bereavement, LGBTQ+, and Faith Based Counseling. My therapeutic approach is holistic. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I provide hope and recovery for independence, community connectedness, and well-being. 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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How to find counseling in Gardena

Finding the best therapist close by in Gardena 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 Gardena. 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 Gardena, 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 Gardena 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 Gardena 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 Gardena, elsewhere in Los Angeles, 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 Gardena area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Gardena 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 Gardena 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 Gardena 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 Gardena, 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 Gardena 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 Gardena 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 Gardena 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 Gardena 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 Gardena 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 90247 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 Gardena 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 Gardena 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 Gardena, 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.

Gardena 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 Gardena.

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

90247, 90249

Popular cities near Gardena, CA

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