San Francisco is a city that is known for its progressive values. A hub for LGBT rights, it was one of the first places to prove that just because someone is different than you, it doesn’t mean they are a bad person. If you feel like no one likes you because you’re different, it may be worth it to speak to a counselor. 

A counselor based in San Francisco is accepting towards all walks of life. No matter your age, race, sex, or sexual orientation, they will be there to help you find the help you need. Speak a San Francisco-based counselor and see how they can help. 

This is Dr. Daryl Temkin's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): Ph.D., MA, MFC
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Intimacy-related issues, Self esteem
Years of Experience: 33

I have been a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for over 30 years with a wide range of counseling experiences. I earned my Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology and Existential Philosophy from the University of California, USC, in 1989. My dissertation is housed at the USC Doheny Library and is available online. My Master's Degree was earned at Loyola Marymount in Counseling Psychology and Education. At the University of California at Los Angeles, UCLA, is where I earned my undergraduate degree in Psychology and Near Eastern Studies. Upon being ...

This is Dr. Tracy Thiem's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): PhD,Licensed,Psychologist
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 35

Betterhelp Online Counselor Applying an Integrative Wellness Approach to Mental Health Counseling as a Doctoral Level Psychotherapist MY PHILOSOPHY AS A MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL: Mental health involves the Whole Person; Mind, Body & Soul. PROFESSIONAL FOCUS: My specialty is in addressing Childhood Trauma, serving especially adults abused as children and adults that grew up with family alcohol and drug abuse. Counseling methods utilize: Somatic Psychotherapy (Sensori-Motor Psychotherapy), Lifespan Integration Therapy, Guided Meditation, Mindfulness Training...

This is Sherry Lewis's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MSW,LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 18

Welcome! My name is Sherry Lewis and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 18 years of combined unlicensed and licensed experience in the medical and mental health field providing services for young children, adolescents, & adults. I have worked in the fields of medical social work and community mental health. Some of my experience includes treating issues relating to grief and loss, end of life issues, depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, and stage of life transitions. My counseling style is warm and empathetic with roots based ...

This is Paula Corano's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MA,LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 11

Hello, my name is Paula Corano and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT # 83322) in the state of California. I graduated from Pepperdine University with a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology. I am also a certified to provide Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) by the University of California, Davis. For the past 10 years, my focus has been to provide a strength-based approach to promote change and growth in individuals, children, couples and families experiencing functional impairment. I like to approach therapy in a holistic manner, supp...

This is Shallymar Bender's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 9

Hello and welcome to BetterHelp! My name is Shallymar Bender and Iearned my Masters in Social Work in California in 2013 and have practiced in California since. I have experience in working with children ages 0-21 in individual and group settings, as well as working with parents to provide parenting skills and techniques to help achieve the child's goals. I have worked with children independently in school settings, office settings, as well as in their homes. My focus was helping to stabilize crisis situations (i.e. depression, anxiety, bipolar, etc.) as well...

This is Angelique Ellingboe's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Grief, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 32

My name is Angelique Ellingboe and I have been working as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for over 30 years in the state of California. I attended San Diego State University where I obtained my MSW and i received my BS in Biological Sciences from the University of California at Irvine. My work experience includes working with clients in a medical/rehabilitation setting and helping them learn to cope with life challenges, low self-esteem, body image issues related to the disease processes, grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety. I also have e...

This is Angie Stewart's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW,MSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 5

Hello! My name is Angie Stewart. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and completed my Masters in Social Work degree at California State University, Long Beach. I am currently practicing in the state of California and have worked in the field of mental health and wellness for the past 9 years. Most of my time working in mental health and wellness has been with adults and older teens experiencing mental health disorders/issues. The majority of my work has been with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. The topics I am most versed in rela...

This is Dina Velazquez's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Grief, Depression, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 5

Hello, my name is Dina Velazquez and I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist currently living on the east coast. I have over ten years experience as a therapist, in both the Community Mental Health model and doing clinical assessments for a health insurance carrier. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling at Pacifica Graduate Institue in Carpinteria, CA. My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, and substance use issues. My approach is client centered while also incorporating ...

This is Erin O'Connor's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Depression, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 7

Hello, my name is Erin! I am a clinical social worker licensed in California and Michigan with more than seven years of counseling and psychotherapy experience. As a mental health provider, my goal is to empower you to live a life that feels supportive, nourishing, and personally meaningful. I value diversity and equity and my role as a social worker who promotes wholistic wellness and social justice. Over the years, I have served a variety of populations including refugees, the LGBTQ+ community, youth in foster care, survivors of sexual assault and intimate partn...

This is Rachel Konecki's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MA,LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Grief, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 7

Hi there, and welcome! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California. I have 8 years experience in counseling individuals, families, couples, and facilitating group therapy. My experience covers a variety of issues including depression and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, loneliness and isolation, grief and loss, issues of aging and older adulthood, and I have helped many people struggling with acute mental illness. I approach each of my clients with sincere curiosity about their life experiences and I have compassion and respect...

This is Kim Hurley's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): Masters in Social Work, LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Depression
Years of Experience: 20

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in California and Wisconsin, with over 25 years of experience working as a Therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, trauma and self esteem concerns. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I have been trained in motivational interviewing and Trauma Informed Care. I have worked with individuals and groups from a variety of different culture's. My counse...

This is Tanishia Santana's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MSW,LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 6

Hi, I am Tanishia Santana, licensed clinical social worker and life coach. I specialize in helping individuals heal from trauma related mental health issues to include sexual assault, domestic violence, and PTSD to name a few. I completed my MSW and the University of Southern California, specializing in Mental Health and Military Social Work. Trying to fulfill your goals and identify your purpose can be difficult when you’re struggling with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and panic disorders. I have helped many individuals in your shoes, overcome th...

This is Charmaine Jacobs's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Years of Experience: 3

Changing old habits you don’t like and building emotional resilience makes sense at any age. I base my theoretical approach on the widely researched neuropsychological findings of Attachment Theory. Underlying successful treatment is the richness of the therapeutic relationship. I use evidence based methods including CBT, Mindfulness and brief psychotherapy.

This is Shellie  Revilla's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 27

I am licensed therapist in California with over 20 years of experience. I've helped clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and other mental health concerns. I am compassionate and dedicated to creating the therapeutic relationship necessary for a successful out come. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have the strength to overcome your challenges. 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 you on your journey.

This is Matthew Fishleder's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MA,LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 12

Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, and now living in Maryland, I bring over a decade of experience supporting the development of more fulfilling relationships. I am driven by a lifelong passion for the work of psychotherapy and the enduring belief that we as humans have a natural tendency toward psychological growth & healing. After completing a master's degree in Counseling Psychology at The Wright Institute in 2011, my work focused for six years on serving low-income families navigating a range of issues such as homelessness, active domestic viole...

This is Jearenna Franklin's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 8

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with symptoms of depression, stress, anxiety, complex trauma and abuse. My approach is client centered which promotes motivation, self-esteem, and confidence in the clients I work with. 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!

This is Teri Rubanowitz's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 23

Feeling down lately and nothing seems to lift your spirits? It is time to seek help from a licensed professional. Individual therapy sessions with me will help you to develop positive attitudes towards life's most complex circumstances. Please allow me to help you to help yourself, and to see the glass half full. I have over 28 years of experience working with individuals in helping them work through their depression and anxiety and helping them to increase their communication skills . I will provide you with tools and exercises to use at home that you can pra...

This is Laurie  Tague's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Addictions, Grief, Eating disorders, Coaching
Years of Experience: 15

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & eating disorders. I also have experience working with executive and professional coaching. 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!

This is Susan Davis 's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Grief, Parenting issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 35

I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & parenting 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Dr. Gerald Monk's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 37

I am licensed therapist in California with other 3 decades of successful counseling experience. My focus is on working with individuals and couples helping them get through challenges that get in the way of them living their best life. I am kind, supportive, intentional and caringly challenging in disrupting your unhelpful habits that sabotage your efforts to change your life for the better. If you find I am a good fit for you, I will commit to three counseling sessions to get you launched in the direction you are wanting to take and then support you with furth...

Having A Hard Time Selecting A Mental Health Professional In San Francisco?

Finding the right therapist can feel intimidating. However, there are a few methods you can try to narrow your search for a counselor in the San Francisco area if you find it challenging to find therapists accepting new clients.

First, research what type of therapy you'd like to pursue before finding a therapist or psychologist. You might be interested in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, marriage and family therapy, or couples therapy. Each therapy can offer various benefits. If you're still unsure, consider asking your prospective therapists which methods they practice.

When you're ready to search, search for 'therapist near me in San Francisco and scroll through the options. Next, consider your goals for the gender of your therapist, the type of therapy they're most experienced with, and their specialty. Finally, choose a therapist located near you in the city of San Francisco or elsewhere in San Francisco or the state of California.

Mental health professionals working through private practice or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships and communication skills, working through life's obstacles, or changing negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a listening ear and validation. Verified San Francisco therapists can provide licensed marriage and compassionate counseling, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

What Is The Cost Difference Between Conventional Therapy And BetterHelp? 

Forbes reports that the average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in San Francisco due to a higher cost of living.

Some therapists 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 therapists serving the city of San Francisco and elsewhere throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $60 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks).


Did You Know BetterHelp Therapists Are Not Limited To In-Person Visits?

Online therapists, including the US-based therapists above, can work with people like you in or around San Francisco to offer creative forms of communication and treatment. You do not have to commute to a therapist's office to meet with one of these counselors.

Through BetterHelp, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, receive worksheets, and sign up for mental health webinars. Additionally, the BetterHelp app offers a journaling feature.

Suppose you're struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists specializing in behavioral health and relationships. You can also try a provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. Look through the available therapists above and consider which might work for you.

San Jose has many professionals who provide client-centered individual counseling in person and through online therapy. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with therapists all over the US. Many individuals gain further insight into their lives through internet-based counseling. In San Francisco, therapy can be easily accessible and a click away.


How To Know If Therapy Is Right For You?

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 they may struggle to provide objective guidance as a therapist can. Therapists are also professionals trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A therapist may support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health or life concerns. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another benefit of therapy is having a 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 San Jose 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 can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With almost one million people in San Francisco, CA, finding a therapist can be costly, and therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of therapists above and others through BetterHelp, you may be able to find a therapist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching for a nearby therapist close to 94112 or the surrounding zip codes, consider other available therapists through the BetterHelp therapist page.

Stay Up To Date With The Leading Online Therapy Platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and FacebookFor mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time to learn more about BetterHelp therapists and counselors to understand the services available to you clearly. If you have any questions, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online counseling, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched with a counselor within 24 to 48 hours.

Emergency Situations

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:

·      National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

·      National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

·      Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

·      Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.

·      Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386 

·      SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357

·      National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)

·      Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature

·      National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293) 

·      Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19

·      Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673

Zip Codes Served By BetterHelp Therapists

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

94102, 94103, 94104, 94105, 94107, 94108, 94109, 94110, 94111, 94112, 94114, 94115, 94116, 94117, 94118, 94119, 94120, 94121, 94122, 94123, 94124, 94125, 94126, 94127, 94129, 94130, 94131, 94132, 94133, 94134, 94137, 94139, 94140, 94141, 94142, 94143, 94144, 94145, 94146, 94147, 94151, 94158, 94159, 94160, 94161, 94163, 94164, 94172, 94177, 94188

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy and BetterHelp can be found below:

How Do I See A Therapist For The First Time? 

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading about the counseling process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your therapist. 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 why you're attending therapy.

Should I Attend Therapy If I Feel Fine? 

If you don't feel the need to see a therapist, you don't have to. However, some people may avoid attending counseling due to preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although therapists 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 advice. A therapist 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 Crying In Therapy A Breakthrough?

Crying can be a breakthrough for some individuals who struggle to express emotions. Others might find that they often cry during sessions. Crying can be normal and healthy, so whether you cry or not may be a personal aspect of sessions.

Are Therapists Worth It?

We may all be on different paths in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, and goals. A therapist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities. Unlike advice from a friend, family member, or non-professional, therapists are trained to meet you where you're at. Therapy can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy each year, showing it's a popular option and may be often effective.

Do Therapists Judge You? 

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to protect you and them from ethical concerns. Therapists are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. Their job is to support you and make you feel safe and respected. You might consider changing therapists if you don't feel safe or respected.