When you're dealing with life’s troubles, it can feel like you're roasting in the hot sun. No water, no shade, and nothing else for you to grab ahold of. Stress, anxiety, and other problems in life can bake you. However, a counselor can be someone who gets you to shelter and cools you down. 

South Gate is known for its dry summers. While they can be great, you should always seek shelter if you're burning up. A counselor can help you when it comes to sheltering yourself from other life troubles that may come your way. 

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Marsha (Marcie) Eriksen Hanna

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW,LCSW
GriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
21 years of experience

Welcome and congratulations on reaching out for support! It takes great strength to make the decision to take that first step. We will be showcasing and enhancing your many strengths by utilizing a Strengths-Based, Solution Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral model in our time together to achieve your fullest potential and happiness in life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with almost 20 years of experience in working with individual adults and families in the following practice areas: Depression, Stress and Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family Conflicts, Coping with grief and loss, Parenting issues, Motivation/Self esteem/Confidence, Career difficulties, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue, and Memory Loss. My Master’s degree in Social Work is from San Diego State University. I also completed an Intergenerational Specialist certificate program from the University of Pittsburgh’s graduate school of social work. You will find my counseling style to be compassionate, warm, genuine, direct, and respectful. I create a space for you that is safe, non-judgmental, encouraging and positive. I am an empathetic and active listener, and we will use proven approaches and strategies that are tailored to the uniqueness of your needs and life path. I am looking forward to working with you!

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Shannon Calder

Offering therapy in CA
License: M.A.,LMFT
Relationship issuesGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a California licensed therapist and have worked in mental health for 15+ years both in person and online. My experience spans age ranges from children to those past retirement. I have worked with a wide range of issues including those whose familial abuse and trauma needs longer term support to weekly goal setters who need coaching and accountability to move through avoidance and resistance. Because I am genuinely curious about people, my client's experience me as accepting and non judgmental with a sense of humor. My approach combines a humanistic style in a psychodynamic atmosphere with a knowledge of human behavior that informs my support of your unique situation. Your life may not be the way you envisioned it and it seems unclear how you can re-vision your future and narrate your past. Since I was very young I have been fascinated with story. It began with watching and reading stories, creating stories and now I listen to personal stories. Our stories are important to us and they form us in to the people we are. Finding new meaning underneath your understanding of yourself is integral to changing your current internal reality. Self efficacy is an important part of self esteem. Whatever your current issue, you may feel as if you could be more effective in your life and work. You may want to learn how you are seen by others, and how to integrate how you see yourself with other's impressions of you. With your collaboration and best interest in mind, I will challenge you to see things from a different view. I am hopeful this will shift your focus toward your goals. After working in the entertainment industry with creative people and process, I have an awareness of how personalities are structured and the way those personalities work within a whole person and within an organizational structure. Whether we are discussing you as an individual, the culture at large, an organization, or a family, communication is an important part of getting what you need from others. It is a courageous step forward to enlist the help of a therapist and I truly respect how uncomfortable you must feel in your current situation to reach out for help. It is my goal to create a supportive, safe environment for you to explore, discover and move through the material that will guide and help you move on from your current state. I look forward to working with you!

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Laura Lien-Mitobe

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Hello and welcome to my profile! My primary goal as a therapist is to provide a client-centered, non-judgmental, caring, supportive, safe space for you to explore experiences, patterns and feelings that may be causing you pain and/or hindering your personal goals and growth. I have been a licensed MFT therapist for over 20 years and worked with people from all lifestyles and cultures. I have experience in a number of therapy modalities and as a teacher. It takes courage to participate in the process of therapy. My wish is to accompany and assist you as you determine the path that leads to a more enriched life. • My experience includes counseling: Individuals, Couples, Families, and Groups Person-centered, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-focused therapies are some of the therapy modalities that I use. But most importantly, the therapy must be tailored to the needs of the client. • Some of the issues that I have helped people with are: Stress, Anxiety and Depression Grief Special interest: Pet loss (It has an unique impact on people who lose a beloved pet) Compassion fatigue (special interest in veterinarians and staff, as well as, others in helping roles) Chemical dependency and Co-dependency Issues with eating Seniors experiencing life transitions Motivational Coaching Parenting

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Michele Kahn

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Arizona with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy-related issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe that you are the expert on your story and have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. I have many years of experience in the creative arts and like to incorporate different tools . I believe everyone has the ability to make a wonderful life for themselves. Sometimes we need help! 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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Nastasia Freeman

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Hello! I'm Nastasia! Based out of the San Diego area, I offer online adult, teen, and relationship therapy throughout California, Florida, & Texas. I’m a Licensed Psychotherapist with an edge, unapologetically doing what it takes to feel well, and help others do the same. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, attachment, & relationships affected by trauma and PTSD. I take healing personal. It’s a privilege to witness the softening and surrendering of years of destructive beliefs. I’m invested. The most important thing you should know about me is this… I’m a trauma therapist that knows when to put down the manuals, evidence, & interventions and really see the person in front of me—validate your pain, hurt, effort, and culture. It’s about seeing you past a diagnosis. I will be transparent with my you. I’m a therapist that has had my own very personal experience with trauma. I’m a clinical therapist, but I also know what it feels like to be the one sitting on the couch, not in the chair. That is exactly why I have devoted my career and life to healing trauma. I appreciate the vulnerability of the person in front of me, so I honor it. I do so by making sure you have access to a safe space where you feel seen, heard, and understood. I advocate for your right to lead your experience—to define your own well. For treatment to work, I adapt, personalize, empathize, and empower. I’m convinced there is no greater technique or practice than humanity. I have designed my practice & approach to reflect the collectiveness of humankind and living amongst and connecting with others empathetically and with compassion. Therapy gives you the space to safely put down the hurt. I have designed a space for you. A safe space to heal past experiences, relationships, unbalance, uncertainty, and stuck. A space where you are met with empathy, compassion, and support. I facilitate healing—that sought after peace of mind. I want to help you put down the stress, hurt, pain, and shame. I’m here for it. I’m invested in it, and I’m here to help you heal it! I’m a trauma therapist that will advocate for your healing and your right to define your well. —Nastasia Freeman, LMHC, LPCC, LPC Know all the theories, master all the techniques, but as you touch a human soul be just another human soul. - C. G. Jung Credentials: Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of California. Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional. Gottman Leader issued by the Gottman Institute (TGI). Mental Health Experience: Licensed Psychotherapist & Founder of a mental health private practice: I specialize in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, attachment, & relationships affected by trauma and PTSD. I provide individual, relationship, and group therapy. Additionally, I facilitate support groups, workshops, and take an active role in community advocacy and support. Licensed Psychotherapist: I provide individual, relationship, & group therapy as an independent contractor/psychotherapist. School Mental Health Counselor: I provided individual and group mental health counseling in a public high-school setting to students and their families. I primary served those experiencing anxiety, trauma, and grief. Crisis Interventionist: I provided crisis response within a law enforcement agency. I responded and provided support and resources to victims and their families during and following traumatic incidents. Behavioral Therapist: I supported children diagnosed with autism and their families. I utilized applied behavioral analysis principles to improve heath outcomes, behavior challenges, and social behaviors Education: I graduated from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology, and I also hold a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I have extensive post-graduate education, training, and experience in mental health counseling, clinical trauma & PTSD, forensic psychology, crisis intervention, integrative mental health, research-based relationship techniques, youth & school mental health, and behavioral therapy. Membership: American Psychological Association (APA), Division 019 Society for Military Psychology (APA), Division 56 Trauma Psychology (APA), Trauma Survivors Network, National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI), Inclusive Therapists, Florida Counseling Association, Florida Association for Multi-Cultural Counseling and Development (FAMCD), and Florida Association for Child and Adolescent Counseling (FACAC).

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Corrie Keener

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Are you looking for a Christian LMFT, someone who truly loves Jesus? That's me! This is how I can help you! With your permission, I integrate the Bible with psychological tools. This brings you an opportunity to TRULY heal and reach your goals. I have my Masters degree in Marriage and Family therapy from California Baptist University. I am trauma-trained and love working with those whose pain is interrupting their life. If the past won't go away, or you have a hunch that it might be why you are stuck in your current life, then you are probably right. I want you to know you are not alone; I will walk that healing journey with you. What am I like?: One of my clients once told me, "You're real!" I replied, "Yes, the real me allows you to be the real you." They added, "You genuinely care." And they were right. I care about your pain. What makes you want to do this job...is all this pain too much for you to hear all the time?: No, because I know healing is happening, and I get to watch the process. Who wouldn't want to watch God work in someone's life? In fact, you will find my greatest joy is when you decide to end therapy. Nothing is better than seeing you reach your goals and release the pain! (Although it is sad to say goodbye.) Still nervous to start?: Let's begin if you're tired of circling around the same topics with no progress! We can work as slow or as fast as you want. You set the pace! Also, remember: You can switch to another therapist with BetterHelp if I'm not the right fit for you. Don't worry; if I am not, I'll encourage you to keep looking for your safe person rather than settle.

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Alicia Romero

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

I am licensed in California with 18 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 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. Trained/Informed in EMDR, Brainspotting, Gottman Method, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

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Leah Szemborski

Offering therapy in CA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger management
13 years of experience

Each of us was reverently and wonderfully made! But over the course of life many of us have been wounded with injuries that eyes can't see--soul wounds. Those wounds may come from absent or unloving caregivers, bullying, abuse, trauma, neglect, hateful words, injuries or illness, substance abuse, lack of safety, abandonment, rejection, etc. There are many ways a person can be wounded. Those wounds don't just go away, and over time they cause problems in our behavior, thinking, feelings, relationships, families and workplaces. We wonder why this anxiety just won't go away, or why we've sabotaged yet another relationship. We get ugly with the people we love, or feel so out-of-control we don't know what to do. We have unexplained illness and ailments, and the treatments (physical and mental) seem never ending. Yes, these are all symptoms of soul wounds. You are amazing because you have found incredible ways to cope with the difficult and even terrible circumstances you've faced in life! And the good news is that you don't have to live with those wounds forever. Hi. I'm Leah, and I would love to embark on a journey of healing with you. Together we will engage in creative and life-changing interventions, activities and encounters that will help you heal the wounds in your soul, and discover (or rediscover!) the unique and amazing purpose for which you were created! You were meant for so much more, and I would be honored to help you unlock your potential and finally live life to the fullest. I'm going to be honest with you, this is hard work; maybe the hardest work you've ever had to do, but in the end it will all be worth it. What are you waiting for? Let's get started! I am a spiritually integrated therapist and adhere to the American Association of Christian Counseling Code of Ethics, which can be found here: https://www.aacc.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/AACC-Code-of-Ethics-Master-Document.pdf

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Natalie Stockton

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Hawaii with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, 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.

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Dawn De La Mater

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

I am licensed in California with 6 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 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find counseling in South Gate

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed South Gate 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 Gate 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 Gate 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 Gate, 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 Gate 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 Gate 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 Gate 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 Gate 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 Gate 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 90280 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 Gate 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 Gate 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 Gate, 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 Gate 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Gate.

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

90280

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