Solana Beach is a quiet coastal town, but even so everyone has their troubles. Even though the coastal city of Solana Beach is quiet and peaceful most of the time, people are bound to run into problems in their personal lives. You do not have to suffer through these troubles alone.

Counselors in the Solana Beach area are available to talk to you about your personal, mental or emotional troubles. They can provide support and coping skills to help you through any time in your life. Contact a therapist to get started.

This is Deborah Sterling's avatar and link to their profile

Deborah Sterling

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

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

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Dawn Hedwall

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
15 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 14 years of experience. I have a wide breadth of experience working with a variety of individuals. I practice from a trauma informed perspective and have a great deal of expertise in working with people that suffer from multiple and various forms of trauma. I have also worked extensively with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, communication challenges and an overall feeling of being stuck in patterns and behaviors. I have a large tool box and I work eclectically utilizing a variety of modalities and clinical approaches. Each person is unique with unique wants and needs. It is my job to find a way to work with each individual person to help find a way to clear any blocks that are preventing you from living the life you are seeking.

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Neil Martin

Offering therapy in CA
Addictions
23 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 23 years of professional work experience. My expertise is sex and porn addiction and other addiction issues. I am nonjudgemental and I treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our sessions 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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Daniel Hernandez

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Trauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCareer difficulties
24 years of experience

I have several specialties, four of which I'll mention here: I help people overcome sexual trauma, grief & loss, spiritual emptiness, and health & wellness disempowerment. I am a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional. This permits me to provide holistic education for the improvement of one's mental health. The theoretical framework I base my help on are: CBT, REBT, and Strengths Perspective. I also incorporate proven mental health principles to help my clients develop the skills of inner healing and personal competence. I am a licensed clinical social worker-supervisor in Texas and licensed in Utah and Nevada as well. I have 24 years’ experience as a master-level clinician and am enthused to work with practically anyone who feels can use my assistance to overcome disclarity and disempowerment. I have a total of 33 yrs exp. in the human services field. I completed my professional training as a master social worker from Our Lady of the Lake University in 1998 and obtained my bachelor’s was from St. Mary’s University in social studies in 1988. Both schools are located in San Antonio, Texas. I've been married for 27 years and have two adult children. In addition to having the love of helping people, I enjoy traveling, hiking, camping, fishing, and hanging out with family and friends. I really enjoy meeting as many people as possible and learning from everybody. The ball is in your court. Take the shot if you'd like my support and guidance.

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Michael Hammer

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesBipolar disorder
27 years of experience

My passion is helping people move out of any "stuck" place. I have a practical and multidisciplinary approach to emotional wellness and will help you progress soon. I am well-versed in specialized treatments and openly talk about treatment options so that you decide what is the best fit for you. Because of my experience, I will offer referrals when you may benefit from more specialized treatment. Of course, how you want to process with your care is up to you. I have almost 30 years of experience working in various mental health settings. I have worked with children, teens, adults, and families. I have the most experience helping clients with addictions, relationship issues, trauma, bipolar disorder and depression, anxiety, ADHD, and self-confidence. I use a strength-based approach to assist you in overcoming things that challenge you or interfere with your life. My methods are based on proven principles, current practice standards, neuroscience, and developmental/attachment theories. I am familiar with attachment-based therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems therapy, trauma, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy. I will tailor our dialogue 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 glad that you are getting started!

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Christine Wong

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

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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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Katherine Hughes

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

My focus is working with individuals, couples, and teens. I am an experienced Baby Boomer having endured multiple losses and difficult life transitions. I have tremendous empathy for those trying to maneuver life's valleys. My style is attentive, respectful, and non-judgmental. I have earned two Masters degrees and four Post-Masters, all to better help clients. If you desire to change aspects of your life, you can start a journey in therapy and explore the answers you may already hold. Clients often have the answers, but they just need to process them. I was taught to listen 80 percent and reflect 20 percent during a session. This is because a therapy session is all about you. It is your time to explore your fears and dreams and how you hold the key to make meaningful changes. Let's be honest, though, it is not easy to open up to a stranger. But, once you start walking, a new you will be waiting to soar.

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Danielle Perez

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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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This is Desiree Terani's avatar and link to their profile

Desiree Terani

Offering therapy in CA
Family conflictsGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with about 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & short-term problem-solving, self esteem, and many other issues. 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. Thank you for trusting me to support you in that process.

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This is Marcus Christmas's avatar and link to their profile

Marcus Christmas

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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How to find counseling in Solana Beach

Finding the best therapist close by in Solana Beach 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 Solana Beach. 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 Solana Beach, 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 Solana Beach 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 Solana Beach 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 Solana Beach, elsewhere in San Diego, 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 Solana Beach area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Solana Beach 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 Solana Beach 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 Solana Beach 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 Solana Beach, 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 Solana Beach 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 Solana Beach 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 Solana Beach 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 Solana Beach 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 Solana Beach 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 92014 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 Solana Beach 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 Solana Beach 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 Solana Beach, 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.

Solana Beach 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 Solana Beach.

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

92014, 92075

Popular cities near Solana Beach, CA

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