In life, it sometimes feels like your life is a sinking ship. You may be able to make repairs, but more often than not, it feels like you should jump ship. What should your decision be? A counselor based in Gilroy can help you decide that. 

Gilroy is named after a sailor who jumped from his ship, according to some historical sources. Sometimes, it’s worth it to jump ship and find another ship. A counselor can help you determine what you should do with all of life’s troubles. Speak to a counselor today and see what the solution can be.

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Deborah Sterling

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionADHD
3 years of experience

My name is Deborah Sterling and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I graduated from California State University, San Bernardino with a Master's Degree in Social Work with an emphasis on child welfare. I worked over 20 years with children and families involved in the foster care system. I also have experience working with teens and adults in a therapeutic setting. I practice supportive therapy influenced by Cognitive Behavioral Theory. I utilize various modalities including traditional talk therapy. I have a broad range of experience in knowledge including but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Child Development, Adolescents, Family Therapy, and Individual Therapy.

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Lynda Merritt

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Therapist licensed in California. I have been working with children, families, and individuals for over 15 years. Over the past 9 years I have been providing therapy for children, families and individuals whom have challenges with mental health barriers. I have worked as a Crisis Responder in the community, hospital, and Law Enforcement settings providing training and coaching strategies on how to respond to mental health using a non-judgmental approach. My goal is to empower through therapeutic and biblical principals that instills, empowers and support our unique voice and choice as well as maintain safety and sense of wellness. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma, sexual and emotional abuse and grief and loss. My counseling style is motivated by engaging persons in a non-judgmental manner, creating a sense of value, respectful, , compassion, and being transparent. My therapeutic approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focus Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy TF (CBT), Motivation Interviewing, Mindfulness, Grief and Loss, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Solution Focused Therapy. My goal is to empower those that are seeking to work in partnership to improve there levels of functioning. My desire is to empower through acknowledgement, validating, and understanding, I believe through commitment and partnership you will be able to gain a better, safer control over your life.

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Patrice Trevoledes

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
34 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 34 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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Arlene Balcarcel

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf 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, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Jocelyn Wilson

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
19 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. I incorporate biblical principles such as prayer, renewing the mind, gratitude centered thinking, and scripture focused meditation when working with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts, feelings, and topics of faith can be explored without fear of judgment. Clients can then practically implement and live out their purpose. 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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Miguel Gomez III

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteem
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & 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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Jeremy Sinkinson

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefParenting issues
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, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Kendra Kelly

Offering therapy in CA
License: LPC,NCC,MPH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Greetings, I am Kendra Kelly and I am a Licensed Counselor in Georgia and California. I maintain a counseling license in the state of Georgia, a National Board certificate in counseling, and a certificate in Reiki level I. I appreciate nature, the arts, spirituality, and helping people become their best selves. I am also in the world of entertainment and performing arts in the field of dance, film, stage, and fashion, so I have a diverse outlook on Creative individuals and their need for mental and emotional wellness in that career and passion field. I help my clients manage through anxiety, stress, depression, identity intersectionality, life transitions, and relationship dynamics. I spent many years working with children, youth, and young adults in the foster care system explore their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors while remaining resilient. It is my belief that each person is unique and dynamic and I prefer to integrate perspectives from multiple theoretical approaches to align with what is best for the person. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Solutions Focused Brief therapy, Midnfulness techniques, as well as Motivational Interviewing. Whether it is career concerns, life changes, relationships-of any types, a "stuck" feeling that has been lingering or something that just comes up in your life, gaining the support and insight to journey through is sometimes necessary. I believe that every adversity or misstep, each success and every joy, each moment and situation is an opportunity to grow, learn, heal, and live the life that you love. I work with primarily women clients, cis-gender or feminine identifying individuals, yet gender does not define my ideal client. I also have the openness to work with individuals of alternative, varying and open relationship styles and sexual identities and expressions. As your counselor, I will not have all of the answers, yet it is my job to help navigate with you to gain the answers for yourself. My work focuses on building self-esteem and self-concept, increasing coping skills, and decreasing disruptive actions and thought patterns while fostering creativity, self-love, and personal insight and emotional intellect. I offer therapeutic space and time for you to get what you need for your best life and the journey along your way. My mission is to provide you with the space, therapeutic relationship, tools/resources, and opportunity to grow through what you are going through and live in and create the life you love. The overall goal of counseling can vary from person to person. I help to guide you towards your goals for counseling and your life. I can assist in fostering self-discovery and confidence, facilitating innate growth and healing, and strengthening interpersonal relationships, decision making and overall coping and life skills. You are to expect some changes as you go through the counseling process. With change can come growth, yet change may not always pleasant, easy, or desired. As navigate through our lives, we may sometimes become lost, frustrated, or overwhelmed. Seeking guidance and support through counseling can be the first step that we take toward achieving balance, wellness, and personal fulfillment in our lives and relationships. I encourage you to write as often and as much as you like - this room is open 24 hours a day, seven days per week. I typically respond to all messages within 24 - 48 hours. The only exception is when I take off on Sundays to rest and have extended self care. It's also possible to schedule a live phone or chat session - if you click on the schedule tab on the left hand side of the page, you can see what times I have available. These sessions will last 35-45 minutes and we can meet for one session per week. Feel free to move forward and schedule a time for us to meet. I have flexibility in my schedule - message me if you do not see a date or time that works for you!

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This is Jayashree Doyle's avatar and link to their profile

Jayashree Doyle

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

Hello! My name is Jay and I am licensed in California with 24 years of counseling experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, depression & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with so many wonderful clients. I feel lucky that I could be a part of their lives as they strived to make changes, big and small. For me, this is the most rewarding part of my job. Before working as a counselor, I had another, very different career, as an engineer. Although I switched out of that profession, I greatly value the critical thinking and problem solving skills that I learned while studying and working as an engineer. I think that those skills make me a better therapist.

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Melissa Dobson

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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How to find counseling in Gilroy

Finding the best therapist close by in Gilroy 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 Gilroy. 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 Gilroy, 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy, elsewhere in Santa Clara, 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 Gilroy area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy, 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 95020 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy 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 Gilroy, 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.

Gilroy 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 Gilroy.

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

95020

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