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. 

One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, CA
Type Of Therapy License(s): LPCC
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Self esteem, Depression, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 13

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in California with almost 20 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, parenting problems, and career challenges. My counseling style is client-centered and supportive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, compassion, and I honor those that choose to trust me with the details of their mental health journey. My job is to work with you to develop a treatment plan that best su...

One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, CA
Type Of Therapy License(s): MA,LMFT
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Intimacy-related issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 20

I bring many years of clinical experience, my personal life experiences, and professional training to my work with clients. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 18 years, working with clients from 17-70+ years of age, including individuals, families, couples (including same sex couples), and those from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The common denominator in my work with every client is the depth of my commitment to their healing and personal growth. Together we will define your objectives and goals. The kinds of problems that each indiv...

One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, CA
Type Of Therapy License(s): LPCC
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 6

Congratulations! It takes courage to ask for help. Hopefully we can work as a team to improve your perspective, way of thinking and overall approach to live. My name is Rachel Fuller and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor practicing in Southern California for the past 5 years. I grew up in the Philadelphia/ New Jersey and graduated with my Masters from the University of Pennsylvania. As a result I have the benefit of an East coast straightforward and honest approach mixed with SoCal creativity and compassion. Life has changed for everyone ove...

One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, CA
Type Of Therapy License(s): MSW,LCSW
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...

One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, CA
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Specialties: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Parenting issues, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 12

Hello and welcome! My name is Amy Hatcher, and I am a military veteran, career firefighter/EMT, licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), and soon to be Doctor of Psychology (PsyD). But don't let the fancy titles and acronyms daunt you! That all just means by education, training, experience, and a genuine desire to help people, I will do my best to be the clinician you need. My approach to therapy is both integrative and holistic, where all aspects of the person – physical, mental, emotional, and behavioral - are addressed. I have worked in a multitud...

One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, CA
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Grief, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 3

Hi, a little bit about me, when I’m not providing therapeutic services for BetterHelp, I work as a licensed clinical social worker for the county behavioral health program. I have been working with adults and families with mental health concerns for over 10 years, this is my passion. I have a combination of therapeutic approaches I typically use such as: cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, along with client-centered therapy. If the client prefers I can provide psychoanalysis or narrative therapy. My therapeutic style is geared towards what the...

One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, CA
Specialties: LGBT, Grief, Self esteem, Compassion fatigue, ADHD
Years of Experience: 13

Hello. I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional therapeutic work experience. In my private practice in Northern California, I provide therapy and professional consultation. I am 2e (Twice Exceptional), Neurodivergent & LGBTQIA affirming. My training and specialization center on trauma-informed integrative therapy. Certification and training including mindful CBT, Brain-spotting & Trauma Informed Yoga Therapy, PSI Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Solution Focused Narrative therapy, & Motivational Interviewing. Additional areas of competency i...

One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, CA
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 17

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, 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.

One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, CA
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 20

As a therapist whose been seeing clients for over 20 years in a variety of settings, I feel that I can be helpful in the majority of circumstances you might find yourself in. I tend to work from a Cognitive Behavioral Framework (which basically means to bring one's thoughts, actions and feelings together to challenge problem areas). I believe that providing a place of trust, safety and support is key to doing the hard work. I am also a person of Faith and if this is important to you please let me know. Otherwise, our work together will focus on the proble...

One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, CA
Specialties: Addictions, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 5

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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.

One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, CA
Specialties: Self esteem, Career difficulties, Coping with life changes, Coaching, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 12

I am licensed in California. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, coping with life changes, and executive and professional coaching. 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. I am here to support and empower you in your journey.

One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, CA
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Grief, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 5

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, CA
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 14

I am licensed in California, Nevada and Wisconsin with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & working with military members, as a Department of Defense contractor for active, reserve and veterans. 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!

One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, CA
Specialties: LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Parenting issues
Years of Experience: 15

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience in counseling, starting as a social worker with families and children in the foster care system, then working in schools and finally private practice. Prior to that I was a conflict resolution specialist in New York schools, then became a mediator in New York and New Mexico working with Family Court. I have over 25 years of experience in helping clients with marital/ relationship issues, family conflicts/parenting, gender identity-related issues, motivation & self esteem, and life transit...

One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, CA
Specialties: Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Parenting issues, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 35

I have been in clinical practice for 35 years. My focus has been on working with parents and children; specifically those who have been adopted, have adopted a child or have surrendered a child for adoption. I have experience in helping all kinds of clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse and coping with grief. Our conversations will of course be focused on 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.

How To Find The Right Therapist For You

Finding the right therapist close by in San Francisco can feel intimidating. However, there are a few methods you can try to narrow your search for a therapy with a counselor near 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 type of therapy can offer various benefits. If you're still unsure, consider asking your prospective counselors 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 psychotherapist, 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 their own 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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the San Francisco area can be found below:

How Do Costs Of Conventional Counseling Compare To BetterHelp With A San Francisco Counselor?

Forbes reports that the average price of an in-person therapy session with a counselor in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in San Francisco 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 in San Francisco: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists in San Francisco: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist in San Francisco: $100
  • Therapy with a mental health counselor in San Francisco: $80

Some counselors 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 counselor sessions ranging from $60 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks).

How Does Working With A Counselor On BetterHelp Work?

It's important to note that these therapists treat clients online. Online therapists, including the US-based therapists above, can work with people like you in or around San Francisco virtually. You do not have to commute to a therapist's office to meet with one of these counselors.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy 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.

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy with a counselor. 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 counselors above and consider which might work for you. There are therapists on BetterHelp specialize in several mental health issues and modalities. See below for examples.

Therapist specialties on BetterHelp include:
  • Therapists specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy 
  • Therapists specializing in behavior therapy
  • Depression therapists
  • Anxiety therapists
  • Stress therapists
  • Eating disorder therapists
  • Grief therapists
  • Therapists specializing in attachment therapy
  • Relationship therapists
  • Child and adolescent therapists
  • Addiction therapists
  • Divorce therapists
  • Trauma therapists
  • Bipolar therapists
  • Psychodynamic therapists

San Francisco 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 therapy. In San Francisco, therapy can be easily to use and a click away.

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

A psychologist 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 with a licensed counselor 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 Francisco 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 counselors above and others through BetterHelp, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching for a nearby psychotherapist close to 94123 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp therapist page. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy in San Francisco can be a great option.

How Should I Prepare For My First Session With A San Francisco Counselor? 

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 psychotherapist. 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 See A Counselor 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 therapists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend counseling. 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 with a counselor.

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 with their counselor. Crying can be normal and healthy, so whether you cry or not may be a personal aspect of sessions.

Is Mental Health Care Worth It?

We may all be on different paths in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, therapists are trained to meet you where you're at. Counseling 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 when working with a licensed counselor.

Do Therapists Judge You? 

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding 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 as your counselor is to support you and make you feel safe and respected. 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and FacebookFor mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time to learn more about BetterHelp therapists 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.

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:

There are all kinds of therapists in the San Francisco area, including:

  • CBT in San Francisco
  • DBT in San Francisco
  • Substance use therapy in San Francisco
  • Couples therapy in San Francisco

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