Many people’s ambitions are held back by their mental state. You may have big dreams, but they mean nothing if doubt, depression, anxiety, or the circumstances in your life hold you back. What can you do? A counselor based in Sunnyvale can help you. 

Sunnyvale is part of Silicon Valley, a place of high technology. Many inventors and entrepreneurs come here in order to make the next big invention. Perhaps your ambition isn't to reinvent the wheel, but to do something to improve yourself. A counselor can help you with that, and any other ambition you may have. Losing motivation is annoying, but there is a way to gain it back, and someone can help you. 

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Rosemary Sara Chesters

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LMFT,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

During these unprecedented times many of us need extra support and more than ever a listening ear to share our experiences. Everyone's journey with social isolation is unique - we are all coping differently. However, stress, anxiety, depression and fear for the future are widespread. I'm an experienced licensed therapist and counselor, former Fortune 50 executive with experience in Hospital Psychiatric facilities and as a Peace Corps Response volunteer in Africa working in crisis and high stress public health situations. I also offer you safety and support during times of crisis or whenever you or your family may feel out of your depth. Having faced my own life challenges I'm especially looking forward to hearing your story and working together towards the solutions you're searching for. My most meaningful partnerships are with clients who embrace collaboration and creativity in their paths to finding the life they want for themselves, their family and friends.

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Sonia Medina Pranger

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW, PPSC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and currently a Ph.D. candidate in Counseling and Psychological Services, with a specialization in Marriage and Family Ministry. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work as well as a Master’s in Social Work and hold a Pupil Personnel Services Credential. I have over twenty years of experience working within schools, child welfare systems and organizations, as well as private practice to support individuals and families. I am also a social work educator for ten years, teaching courses to emerging professionals at the college level that focus on social work practice, studies in domestic violence, cultural humility, and ethical faith integration in service and research. I am passionate about supporting individuals and families to thrive in life. I believe people are innately resilient and able to grow from adverse circumstances. My goal is to foster a partnership in the counseling relationship, where respect and dignity are valued. I take the role of counseling as sacred because of the courage it takes to work on oneself. I acknowledge and value people’s life experiences, and I am blessed to have the opportunity to support healing and recovery in the counseling journey.

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Catherine LaCroix

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Welcome! Thanks for stopping by! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California with 13 years of experience in the mental health field. I have expertise in helping clients with addiction, depression, stress and anxiety, and challenging belief systems to create a new way of living. I offer my clients an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Your safe space is here to release your worries and challenge your patterns to create the fulfilling life you want. It takes courage. I am here to support & empower you in this journey!

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Janet Bein-Hickey

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with over 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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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Ellen Golding

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefEating disordersDepression
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & eating disorders. 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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Tracie Cohen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
19 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in providing clients who are coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Dr. Colleen Kelly

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteem
28 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My individual clients are struggling with anxiety, getting sober, have long term sobriety, or are expats adjusting to their new country. They are struggling in a relationship, family, or marriage and want to feel connected and joyous with those that they love. I will not sit there and nod and ask, "how does that make you feel?" I am very active in therapy and we will work together to create the life you want. I interweave assessment with psychodynamic, family systems, humor, attachment focused therapy with coaching techniques and Mindfulness to provide personal individualised treatment. I'm a queer therapist married to my husband 29 years with 2 grown kids. I have 31 years in recovery from alcoholism. We are all struggling in life. It's freaking incomprehensible a lot of the time. I truly respect you. I will work collaboratively with you not through some weird hierarchy. You know what is best for you and we will find out exactly what that is so you can live a life of peace, joy, and fulfilment.

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Sharene Rodamaker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 10 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. 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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Zehra Dos Santos

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.

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Dean Rishel

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & depression. 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Sunnyvale

Finding the best therapist close by in Sunnyvale 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 in Sunnyvale that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Sunnyvale. 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 Sunnyvale, 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 in the Sunnyvale region and in the state of California. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Sunnyvale or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Sunnyvale area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Sunnyvale 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 Sunnyvale, elsewhere in Santa Clara, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Sunnyvale 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 Sunnyvale 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 Sunnyvale 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Sunnyvale online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Sunnyvale, 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 Sunnyvale psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Sunnyvale 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 Sunnyvale helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Sunnyvale 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:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Sunnyvale 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 in Sunnyvale?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Sunnyvale 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.

Sunnyvale therapists 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 Sunnyvale 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 Sunnyvale 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in CA, therapists 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 94086 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Sunnyvale counselor?

Before seeing your Sunnyvale 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Sunnyvale.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Sunnyvale 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 with a Sunnyvale counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Sunnyvale, 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.

Sunnyvale 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Sunnyvale, California

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 to customer service 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 Sunnyvale.

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

94085, 94086, 94087, 94088, 94089, 95002

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