The motto of the City of South El Monte, California in Los Angeles County is “Growing Our Future.” Their mission is to protect and improve the quality of life for the community. They also have some of the best mental health professionals in the state who can help if you or someone you love has a mental health disorder. 

Some of the signs of the most common mental illnesses include unexplained sadness, fatigue, sleeping and eating changes, confusion, difficulty making decisions, and chronic aches and pains. If you or someone you care about is experiencing any of these or other signs of a mental illness, talk to one of the South El Monte psychiatrists today.

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Dr. Alexandra Duffy

Offering therapy in CA
License: Psy.D.
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
15 years of experience

Hi there! I am Alexandra Duffy a clinical psychologist with licenses in California, Massachusetts, North Carolina, and Washington. Thanks for taking a moment to learn how my counseling and therapy can be a useful tool for yourself or someone you care about. Therapy is a way to invest in yourself, have support during difficult times and deal with past issues that impact your current life and relationships. Together, we discover healthy ways to help cope with the unknown and things outside of our control. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, panic disorder, ADHD, eating /body image issues and Bipolar Disorder. I also work with students of all ages (and even parents) to address issues with learning, such as dyslexia, ADHD, learning disabilities and executive functioning issues (e.g., time management, procrastination, prioritizing work, regulating emotions, etc.), which can be especially challenging right now with Online and Distance Learning. I have extensive experience with the evaluation and diagnosis of ADHD, dyslexia and learning disabilities to improve overall functioning and also provide documentation for academic and test accommodations. My therapy style is warm, interactive and collaborative. I tailor our sessions and treatment plan based on your individual needs and take into consideration your prior experience with counseling. I utilize an eclectic style incorporating psychodynamic and evidence-based modalities including cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, and mindfulness-based interventions. I integrate healthy lifestyle techniques to improve emotional health and overall well-being by addressing sleep habits, exercise and eating patterns. I also help manage electronic media usage to find a balance between being informed and feeling worried or overwhelmed by the 24-hour news cycle and uncertainty in our lives right now. I earned my Doctor of Clinical Psychology degree (Psy.D) from the George Washington University and Postdoctoral Master of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology from the California School of Professional Psychology. I completed a Post-Doctoral Fellowship at Harvard University’s Bureau of Study Counsel. I have worked in inpatient/residential treatment, private practice and as a Staff Psychologist at UCLA and the Georgetown University Law Center. Some of my clinical interests include identity development, perfectionism, mastering attention regulation concerns, and learning styles/strategies to improve academic performance. I am also interested in helping actors and individuals in the creative arts to improve self-awareness, explore emotions and use relaxation techniques in the creative process, as well as to cope with rejection, criticism and stress. I have taught workshops to improve self-esteem and reduce anxiety for students, professional and healthcare workers, as well as during the audition and interview process. I have enjoyed leading Finding Focus groups and the Art of Public Speaking wellness group. These skills and techniques are beneficial during individual counseling sessions as well to increase personal effectiveness.

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Cindy Llora

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT,Arizona
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

About Me I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT). I am licensed in Arizona and California. At this time I am providing therapy for Arizona only. I've been working in the counseling field for about 12 years. I have counseling expertise in the following areas; addiction, trauma, grief and loss, family conflict and relationships. I have worked with Individuals and Families in addiction and alcoholism. I have worked with PTSD and Trauma with Vietnam Veterans. I also have worked with dual diagnosed populations. The modalities I use are Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Client Centered, Narrative, Mindfulness and Solutions oriented. I also incorporate and use music lyrics and song writing with addiction, trauma and grief clients. Educational Credentials: University of Phoenix, MA in Counseling Psychology California State at Northridge, BA in Psychology Licensed with Arizona State, BBHE LMFT #15462 Are you having challenges with negative memories or negative thoughts running through your mind, or telling yourself the same story over and over again, therapy can help you re-create a new story, make sense out of those old memories, and create new thoughts to replace the old thoughts. I find it to be an honor to be able to work with clients, so as to help you create a healthier and more balanced life. I look forward to working with you soon!

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John Alilovich

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesDepression
40 years of experience

Hello my name is John Alilovich. I am a Licensed Professional Therapist in California. I worked for over fifteen years for our county mental health department with children and families. I focused on areas of substance addiction, domestic violence, marriage and relationship issues, various forms of abuse, parenting issues, and LGBTQ families. I concurrently started working in my private practice where I continue seeing an array of clients going on 35 years now. My style of therapy is warm and personal. I work by getting to know you as a person since you are the expert on your own life. Together, we can jointly come up with goals and solutions that are going to work for you. I will treat you with sensitivity, respect, and warmth by getting to know you as a unique individual. I like to use emotion focused therapy, family systems theory, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy. By getting to know you, we can figure out which modalities are going to be most beneficial for you. Seeking therapy is not an easy decision to make, and I want to commend you for wanting to create a better life for yourself. I would love to support you and be part of your journey towards the goal of a more fulfilling life.

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Cheryl Wharton

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepression
30 years of experience

I have had a passion to help people since I was very young. I have been doing professional counseling for almost 30 years. I have a Degree in Psychology, a Masters Degree in Marriage & Family Therapy and am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California. I’m an experienced facilitator of health and healing for individuals, couples and families. With 30 years of experience in counseling, I know what it takes to move one into their desired path. My proven methods, will help you build and live a more authentic and powerful life. I create a place for individuals to talk about their experiences, to feel heard, knowing you’re valued, and feel a sense of belonging. My desire is to support you in identifying your strengths, facing life’s challenges, finding your purpose, building resilience, to grow and be vulnerable, to embrace your authentic self on your journey to a healthy lifestyle. I provide a safe, confidential and non-judgmental environment with understanding and respect. I use a holistic approach incorporating all aspects of the individual (psychological, social, emotional, physical and spiritual). It is often, not what happens in life, but how one deals with it. I believe the quality of your relationships, will determine the quality of your life. There are many things we can work on, where you will see your relationships improving. Many live with a life dominated by fear, and I can help you be an overcomer, instead of forever overcome. There are many areas I work in, however, I am interested in hearing from you and learning about you, your goals, desires and the pain. I believe that one should not export what isn't’ working in their own life. I have not only years of professional experience, but life experience as well, that has propelled me into a life, I never knew existed. I enjoy every day, the most amazing, loving relationship with my husband and I say that, to say this…. I know firsthand what a poor relationship is all about and I also know what it takes to get you from bad to Amazing. Nearly everyone can benefit from some direct, kind and professional support when an issue interferes with your enjoying a great life and Amazing relationships. Lack of effective support can interfere with rising above your circumstance, and being an overcomer to achieve what you want your life to be. I help people suffering from; Relationship issues, Dating, Anxiety, Depression, Fear, Coping, Panic Attacks, Low Self-Esteem, Stress, Grief and Loss, and Much More. Your reaching out, would telegraph to me that you don't want to just survive, but rather thrive. I can help you take the necessary steps... You "Matter".

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Myra Hollis

Offering therapy in CA
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & 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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Michael Brown

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
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, anger management, depression, & 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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Renee Ridley

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & intimacy related issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Angelica Limon

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. 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!

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Ninoska Fonseca

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
33 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 33 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. Stephanie McVea

Offering therapy in CA
License: LPC,PhD
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
19 years of experience

I was born in Dallas and I have lived in several urban cities including: New Orleans, LA; Washington, D.C.; Jersey City, NJ; and New York City. I received my Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Howard University. I am particularly sensitive to the challenges of children and adults with mental health and challenges, including domestic/family violence and child abuse. I have over 15-years experience as a therapist. Contemplating counseling for the first time can be a scary decision. Many people have no idea what to expect. The counseling process requires developing a trustworthy relationship between the therapist and the client; and it is the therapist’s responsibility to develop and cultivate that relationship. As a therapist, it is my responsibility to unconditionally accept you as you are, which includes not being judgmental. Thus, creating a safe and nurturing counseling relationship. As human beings, our experiences are unique to us. We experience and view the world from our lens, which impacts how we perceive ourselves and others. Unfortunately, because we are all unique, people around us also develop perceptions about us which may not be an accurate representation of who we are or our true intentions. Sometimes, our perceptions lead to miscommunication and misconceptions; thereby impacting our ability to connect and develop healthy relationships. Typically, perceptions are based on our experiences and our experiences are not always favorable or pleasant. Occasionally, our experiences are traumatic and abusive. For some, trauma and abuse occur so regularly that it becomes the norm and ultimately impacts social, interpersonal, and intimate relationships. Counseling is the process of becoming awakened to our true selves to better understand how our personal experiences influence who we are. Our personal experiences are impacted by our family of origin, racial and cultural/ethnic group, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, etc. Because many aspects of one’s life may be explored, including childhood experiences, the process of counseling may feel uncomfortable and intrusive, at times. However, it is important to trust the process and know that every counseling session will not feel good. There are times that as a client, you may feel sad or hurt and become tearful; you may be excited and feel happy; you may be confused and feel hopeless. However, know that in the end, if you trust the process, you will hopefully learn something new about yourself that you never considered. Thus, leading to fulfillment in your life in areas including your relationships and family dynamics that ultimately, enhance your self-worth.

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How to find counseling in South El Monte

Finding the best therapist close by in South El Monte 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 South El Monte. 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 South El Monte, 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 South El Monte 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 South El Monte 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 South El Monte, elsewhere in Los Angeles, 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 South El Monte area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed South El Monte 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 South El Monte 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 South El Monte 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 South El Monte, 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 South El Monte 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 South El Monte 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 South El Monte 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 South El Monte 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 South El Monte 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 91733 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 South El Monte 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 South El Monte 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 South El Monte, 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.

South El Monte 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 South El Monte.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in South El Monte:

91733

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