In life, some weird things can bring you together. This can come in the form of a hobby, a funny joke, or another action. If you're struggling with depression or anxiety, you may need something to cheer you up, and someone who can help you is a counselor based in Novato. 

Novato has quite a history. During its inception, theaters with weird events brought the community together, with events such as beard growing contests. Sometimes, you need to think outside the box to enjoy life, and a counselor can help you do just that. Speak to one today. 

This is Jasmine Jones's avatar and link to their profile

Jasmine Jones

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
3 years of experience

Hi my name is Jasmine Jones I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker who has specialized for 11 years in work dealing with trauma, daily life stressors, mood disorders, and behavioral issues in youths, adults, and families. My main focus of practice is helping clients develop a sense of authenticity and self worth. I currently specialize in various evidenced based practices including CBT, AFCBT, Crises Intervention, TFCBT, mindfulness, and DBT practices. Welcome I can’t wait to work with you

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Meghan Todd

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Hello there! My name is Meghan Todd and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with experience working with children, teens, individuals, and families. I use a strengths-based, warm but direct approach. I pull from different models depending on each client's individual needs. I especially focus on motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, drama therapy, and strategic family therapy. With special training in drama therapy, I bring a uniquely creative lens to all of my work, whether or not you wish to engage with drama therapy in particular. Through it all, I believe in being client-centered and meeting the client where they currently are on their journey. I have familiarity with many areas, including depression, stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, and life changes. In the past, I have focused on treating parenting issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, and motivation and self-esteem. Please ask me if I can help with whatever you are currently needing! Life is constantly unstable, changing at every moment. I am here to support and guide you through it all. I work to empower you and highlight your strengths, to build up the resiliency that already exists inside you to help you face whatever may challenge you. I will be happy to walk in front of you as a guide, beside you as a companion, or behind you as a supportive follower on your path of healing. Thank you so much for sharing your time and energy with me! I look forward to getting to know you and helping in whatever therapeutic ways I can.

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Tinia Holleman-Soto

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA LMFT,PPS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
13 years of experience

Hello and Welcome. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in the state of California. I graduated from the University of Southern California with my Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and Pupil Personnel Service Credential. During my studies I began working in the counseling field as a Behaviorist with children ages 0-3 with Developmental Delays. I had the opportunity to collaborate with Speech Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Marriage and Family Therapists, and the Regional Center. In 2009 I transitioned my career to work with children, teenagers, and families dealing with a range of challenges; during this time I was able to work with Psychiatrists, Social Workers, Case Managers, and School Districts. I have experience working with a variety of concerns including parental support with children diagnosed with a Developmental Delay, Depression, Anxiety, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (children and families who had experience sexual, physical, and domestic abuse), crisis interventions, and ADHD. In my work with client's I typically utilize a Person-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral and Existential approach, meaning I will meet the client where he or she feels comfortable and safe, while assisting client's in understanding how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are related and also challenging client's to live and act authentically in their lives. I am honored and passionate to be a part of someone’s personal life experience(s), as our problems and feelings are unique to each individual. I like to approach my sessions as a team, assisting each individual in feeling free from judgment, criticism, and pain. It takes courage and motivation to reach out for additional support and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Diana Medrano

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Diana and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the State of California. I have over 10 years’ experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including residential, school based, adult outpatient, and in the Mental Health Drug Treatment court with Dually Diagnosed individuals. Although that seems like a mouthful, it simply means that I have had experience working with a broad range and severity of clinical issues. I have the most experience working with anxiety, panic disorder, manic episodes, and complex trauma/abuse. I also have experience working with depression, adjustment disorders, gender identity issues, all LGBTQ2S+ populations, and trauma related to long-term incarceration. I'm certified in QIPS: Queer Intentional Peer Supporter and currently work with individuals from our local LGBTQ Gender clinic. I have experience working with individuals in different stages of identity/transition and trained in SOGIE: Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression. I’m currently a clinical program manager where I manage a mental health clinic and I am ready to see some clients of my own outside of work. My dedication to the field of mental health stems from my personal experience with it. I grew up with close loved ones living with mental illness and addictive behaviors. I know firsthand that getting help can be a challenge but if you have come this far, I hope you can come a little farther. There’s still lots of stigma associated with mental health and know that this may be your first time or the 15th time. Nevertheless, meeting a stranger and getting help, can be a daunting process. Here’s how I operate to help ease your mind in your therapeutic journey with me. I use a person-centered, holistic, multicultural, and integrative approach in treatment. This means I begin where you are and tailor the treatment approach to your needs, while being sensitive to how your individual cultural identities and lifestyle choices impact your experience. I primarily use evidence based techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling. I would describe my style as warm, supportive, flexible, transparent and use humor along the way when appropriate to do so. If you’re ready, I’m ready. Collaboration is key in this process and by working together, we can establish concrete goals and steps necessary to live a little better. Thank you for taking the time in learning about me and hope to learn about you soon.

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Amy Carnes

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMFT
AddictionsGriefParenting issues
10 years of experience

I know it can be overwhelming to take early steps toward the changes you want in life. Coping with our struggles already takes a huge amount of energy. Choosing a therapist is a big step. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where I can use my professional tools while we work on mental, emotional, and relationship issues. I will provide transparency throughout the process, so you are informed and know what to expect. I am a culturally competent Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of counseling experience. I received my Master of Science in Psychology from California Polytechnic State University. I am currently licensed to practice in California and Wisconsin. My areas of greatest expertise are addiction treatment and grief counseling. However, I have worked with clients experiencing a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, low self-esteem, and personality disorders. I also have had experience working with pre and postnatal issues, including parenting challenges. I consider myself to be primarily a humanistic and cognitive behavioral therapist. However, treatment should be adapted to an individual’s needs and what works best for them. We can work together to figure out what treatment looks like for you. I look forward to meeting you and starting your therapy!

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This is Janice Ruchlis's avatar and link to their profile

Janice Ruchlis

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS, MA MFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
30 years of experience

I want to work with you to help you explore trauma, disability and low self esteem and discover ways to heal and feel more positive going forward. My work is a mixture of psychodynamic, behavioral, spiritual and developmental. I have worked with people of all ages and nationalities and i really valuing bringing differences to the forfront and apprecisting them. I look forward to working with you

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Karen Egertson

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
17 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, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Ronald Rockenbach

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
32 years of experience

I believe people can change and prosper when life challenging circumstances occur. Change can be tough when an individual holds on to old distorted views of themselves, situations and/or behaviors that keep them stuck. When someone is experiencing a mental health problem or crisis, it may be difficult for them to take the necessary steps to put things into perspective by themselves. My strength is creating an environment that allows clients to feel comfortable, supported, and engaged. This helps people to open up and talk about themselves, behaviors and experiences they may otherwise keep secret or suffer with silently in shame. The support provides a safe place to help them challenge their irrational thoughts and be open to new ways of thinking. My preferred therapy modalities are cognitive behavioral and family systems, but will use other approaches to meet the need of the client. I am licensed in California with 32 years of professional work experience. I have treated clients for depression, anxiety, anger management and trauma. I have worked in multiple, diverse mental health treatment settings, including private practice, treating such issues as drug/alcohol abuse, victimization, suicide prevention, anger management, family conflict and reunification, juvenile sex offending and conduct disorder. As a Mental Health Clinic Director and Supervisor (combined 20 years) I managed teams of clinical staff including psychiatrists, therapists, and substance abuse counselors. In addition, as a mental health master trainer, I provided ongoing mental health training to clinical, medical and program staff. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with a Master of Arts degree in Social Science with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy . On a personal note, I am married to the woman I met in college. Together, we have raised three children who are now establishing their own families. In my free time, I lead an active life and have been an avid mountain biker for 20 years. Time spent outdoors and with my family bring me great happiness and a sense of balance. I believe 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 begin therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started.

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Deborah Bryk

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. 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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This is Leah Dean's avatar and link to their profile

Leah Dean

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
43 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, family conflicts, & depression, as well as divorce recovery, blended family issues, grief and loss., 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 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 Novato

Finding the best therapist close by in Novato 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 Novato. 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 Novato, 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 Novato 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 Novato 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 Novato, elsewhere in Marin, 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 Novato area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Novato 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 Novato 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 Novato 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 Novato, 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 Novato 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 Novato 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 Novato 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 Novato 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 Novato 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 94945 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 Novato 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 Novato 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 Novato, 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.

Novato 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 Novato.

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

94945, 94947, 94949, 94998

Popular cities near Novato, CA

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