Being near the Pacific Ocean can be great, but sometimes the ocean in your head can be tough to traverse. Luckily, with the help of a counselor in Pacifica, you’ll be able to easily create the life that you want.

Pacifica is actually spread along a 6-mile stretch of beaches all along the coast, and it even has small valleys. It’s a popular surfing location, with many visiting because of how fun it is. You can ride the waves of life in your own way, and with the help of a counselor, it’s definitely possible. 

This is Okechuku Nwanganga's avatar and link to their profile

Okechuku Nwanganga

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepression
10 years of experience

My name is Robert and I would be honored to be your Therapist. I would like to tell you about myself. I have been a Social Worker for the past 20 years and I have worked with a lot of different people in a variety of situations. I am working on a new schedule. My schedule is 6am to 2:00 pm on Mondays and Wednesdays, 6 am to 11 am then 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm Tuesdays and Thursdays as well as Sundays from 1pm to 8 pm Sundays Pacific Standard Time. I am very comfortable conducting therapy via video or phone but not Live chat The most important thing I need you to know about me and how I work is that I believe Social Work to be a calling and I truly believe in the power of Therapy to change lives. I believe that talking about the things that hurt us provides us with the power to overcome them. I am more interested in your strengths than your diagnoses. I am more interested in empowering you to make your own decisions than I am in you doing what is “right.” Regarding therapy, I am not bound to any one theoretical approach. I tend to utilize a variety of approaches in therapy because I want to provide you with a personalized therapeutic experience. I need you to know that I will only focus on what you think is important. I will not push you to share anything that you are not comfortable sharing but I will ask you questions about things I think are important to provide insight into the situation at hand. I will always be honest with you in every situation and I will continue to exhibit compassion and empathy towards your situation. One of my favorite sayings regarding therapy is that “It matters because it matters to you.” I look forward to working with you.

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Brittany Armstrong

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hi! My name is Brittany Armstrong and I am happy you’re here! Taking the first step can be scary and my commitment to you is to make you feel safe and comfortable throughout your experience. I believe therapy has the best outcome when you find someone who you feel truly listens and understands. It’s not my job to be the expert of your life, but to help navigate through the challenges you’re facing and help find the right path for you. We are in this together! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of counseling experience. I received my Masters in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University where I specialized in Narrative Therapy. I love this approach because it emphasizes that we all have a story, and YOU are the expert of your life. Your challenges and mistakes do not define you as a person, and we will focus on your positive skills and sense of purpose to overcome whatever obstacles you are facing. My approach is completely tailored to your goals! I have worked with children, teens, and adults with a primary focus on life transitions. You may feel stuck in your career, at home, or just have anxiety about “what’s next.” Maybe you’re unhappy or depressed. Maybe you feel you’re alone in your thoughts. The future is unpredictable, and my hope is that I can be that emotional outlet for you and process whatever it is you are going through. I am here for you so let’s get started!

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April Bolin

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
LGBTGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

My name is April Bolin, and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker with three decades of professional service in the San Francisco Bay Area. I received my Master of Social Work degree from the University of California Berkeley. Over the years, I have worked with a diverse range of individuals who have found themselves adjusting to life circumstances, relationship challenges, or needing to improve mental health. As a therapist, I have worked closely with the LGBTQIA community, victims of abuse and trauma (xenophobic, systemic, multi-generational, etc), and individuals experiencing depression and feelings of emptiness. Having worked in the past as a partial hospitalization program therapist, I have found Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to be a highly effective method of supporting people who are dealing with challenges that feel overwhelming. When we begin to understand how our negative thoughts and feelings weigh us down, we can begin to incorporate healthy strategies for improving the way we think and move about the world. I am also a graduate of the Chaplaincy Institute’s Interfaith Seminary, which invites more of a psycho-spiritual approach for people seeking support around issues such as grief and loss, caregiver exhaustion, or recovery from religious dogma. I consider myself spiritual but not religious and, therefore, have no particular faith tradition that I identify with and the utmost respect for all faith traditions that serve to lift humanity. I learned from my own life challenges that the most effective therapists are those who have worked through their own demons so that they can authentically support the personal growth of others. As I reflect on my work as a therapist, that which has been most satisfying are the “aha moments” that spark positive changes in the lives of those who I have helped. There is a quote by Stephen Covey that I will end my summary with. It has become a philosophical intersection between my fundamental belief as a person and my practice as a therapist: “Be patient with yourself. Self-growth is tender; it’s holy ground. There’s no greater investment.”

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Janice Loboda

Offering therapy in CA
License: LPCC,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
15 years of experience

I am a licensed professional clinical counselor. I began my working with people struggling with addiction issues, working in an Inpatient and Outpatient substance abuse treatment facility. While I was there, I enjoyed working with teenagers and families recovering from addiction. I later began a private practice, that helped parents address parenting and family stressors and help them work with their children's school to obtain 504/IEP accommodations to support their child's educational and emotional needs. I also worked with adult professionals, as an EAP counselor, to help resolve career stressors, overcome professional barriers, and address burnout and return to finding professional and personal purpose.

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Veronica Cruz-Martinez

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California and New Jersey with over 18 years of experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community, children and adults with trauma history along with those struggling with suicidal ideation and self-harm, parenting issues, anxiety and depression. I have seen firsthand the difference a caring, empathetic, and attentive adult can make in a person’s life and feel honored when that can be me. For the last 8 years I have worked as a "crisis counselor" and clinician, seeing clients on a regular basis as well as supporting those in and through a crisis. I am able to think quick on my feet and can stay calm in high intensity situations. Throughout this time, I have assessed for safety and danger to self and others due to mental illness and have made determinations as to whether or not someone is in need of psychiatric hospitalization and am certified to make the decision that one needs to enter into a hospital for treatment. On the other side, I have also safety planned with many and have been able to connect people to supports that they need whether it be referrals that fit their current situation, assisting in making a plan to keep them safe and connecting the person to someone whom they feel comfortable with should they be in crisis again. I believe in treating the mind, body, and soul and understand as well as acknowledge, the importance of a healthy lifestyle and why it is important to utilize all the tools we have (or have yet to find) because we all have the power within us to heal, sometimes we just need some help getting there. I believe in the importance of coping skills and can help you find them or strengthen the ones you already have. This can include meditation, exercise, utilizing crystals or essential oils to help heal and calm oneself, and will seek outside supports when needed. I am a firm believer in working within my limits as a therapeutic clinician and have no problem offering referrals when necessary. My overall goal is to continue providing the support, offering guidance, and making a difference in the lives of others, using my expertise in trauma informed treatment and having an open mind.

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Kasey Tippets

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4+ years of professional work experience in the therapy setting in several different fields. I have worked with adults, families, couples, foster youth, teens and children. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & 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. I want my clients to have an active role and voice in their sessions, as I am here to support you and help you achieve your goals. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage and I am here to support you in that process. I look forward to working together in the future.

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Ariane Willis-Smith

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Gregory Keeler

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
27 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related 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. 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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Dr. Christopher Padalinski

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am a licensed psychologist in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with a vast array of issues: general and specific stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse (both historical and current or recent), motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and depression. I’m well versed in standard cognitive and behavioral therapy strategies but pride myself in my humanistic and existential focus and approach to life, life’s problems, and growth. I of course believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I applaud you taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life, as it takes genuine courage. I am honored to be a part of your process and I’m here to support you in that process.

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This is Hayley Sherer's avatar and link to their profile

Hayley Sherer

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTCoping with life changesADHD
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, & coping with life changes. 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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How to find counseling in Pacifica

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica, 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 94044 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica 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 Pacifica, 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.

Pacifica 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 Pacifica.

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

94044

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