Located in the beautiful area of Santa Clara County, Los Gatos, California was named the 33rd most wealthy town in America by Bloomberg Businessweek and high technology companies have a lot to do with it. But, too much technology can be a bad thing for some people. 

There is now proof that some people are affected by internet or video game addiction, which can wreck your life, affect your relationships, and cost you your job or home. If you or someone you know is suffering from one of these or any other mental health conditions, contact one of the many expert counselors in Los Gatos right away. 

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Elizabeth Stark

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist and I have been providing psychotherapy for the last 20 years. I received my bachelor degree in Liberal Studies at Chapman University in 1996 and became a bilingual peer counselor at a counseling center for victims of Domestic Violence. Then in 2003 I acquired my Masters degree in Counseling Psychology at National University . My experience includes individual therapy, group therapy and family therapy in various settings. I have worked with all ages and I have a lot of experience helping clients with different types of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges and many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I utilize many different types of models such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused and Motivational Interviewing to name a few; however, regardless of what approach I use I am always warm, empathetic, collaborative and encouraging.It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Amy Hatcher

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCompassion fatigue
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello and welcome! My name is Amy Hatcher, and I am a military veteran, career firefighter/EMT, licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), and soon to be Doctor of Psychology (PsyD). But don't let the fancy titles and acronyms daunt you! That all just means by education, training, experience, and a genuine desire to help people, I will do my best to be the clinician you need. My approach to therapy is both integrative and holistic, where all aspects of the person – physical, mental, emotional, and behavioral - are addressed. I have worked in a multitude of different therapeutic settings, including active duty, veteran, and first responder counseling services, community mental health treatment centers serving individuals, couples, families, and children, residential recovery programs, and as a member of the psychiatric emergency response team (PERT). Seeking therapy is a big step and ensuring a good fit with your therapist is a major component. My goal is to establish a solid relationship, meet you where you are, figure out where you want to be, and work together to help you get there. I look forward to working with you! Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (1-800-273-TALK) Crisis Text Line: Text TALK to 741-741

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Mary Baez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi my name is Mary Baez. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist registered in the state of California. I have been working in the mental health field for fifteen years in a varieties of settings, giving me a wealth of knowledge on human behavior. Beyond my educational qualifications I have learned and continue to learn from the clients I have had the pleasure and honor of serving throughout my years of clinical practice. The learning never stops and the resiliency of the human spirit is amazing. I also am a clinical supervisor of up and coming therapists. It is of upmost importance to me to build a trusting therapist/client relationship in the beginning of the therapeutic process. This is done by listening with my whole heart in a non-judgmental stance to allow for soulful sharing and feeling heard and understood. My basic approach to therapy is Person Centered, which purports unconditional positive regard. The interventions I use are eclectic and tailored to the unique and individual needs of each client. I work from a holistic and strength based philosophy to assist clients in going within to find their truth and act upon it by living a life worth living based on self-discovery. Clinical Approaches: Trauma Focused Therapy EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Solution Focused Therapy

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Kimberly Brooks

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience counseling and life coaching. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, anger issues, career challenges, grief, and many other challenging issues. I have also helped many people who have experienced diverse types of traumas. My therapy style is warm and compassionate, but direct and honest. I provide a holistic perspective, am interactive and empathetic. I will give you an opportunity to be transparent while providing safety and sensitivity. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes great courage to seek a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and encourage you. I look forward to working with you!

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Raymond Cisneros

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & parenting 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. 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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Natalie Fifer

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

I am licensed in Texas with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. For many people, trusting a stranger with your story, emotions and feelings can be overwhelming. However, psychotherapy can be a useful tool for anyone. Therapy is for anyone looking for outside supportI believe that it is important to build a more dynamic relationship through a collaborative effort utilizing techniques acquired through my years of schooling and experienceI will customize my approach to meet each person's needs. Through empathy we will deepen the therapeutic bond that leads to better results. I will make every effort to make sure you feel understood and supported I will do my best to communicate suggestions concisely and clearlyI will analyze symptoms presented and offer you an explanation of what reasons might be contributing to the symptoms you are experiencing.

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Margaret "Margi" Wild-McKinney

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementCoping 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, relationship issues, parenting issues, & anger management. 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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Kathleen Lynch

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Trauma and abuseGriefAnger managementCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
29 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 29 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & 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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Robert Bancroft

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionADHD
37 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 37 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dr. Steven Blakely

Clinical therapist offering therapy in CA
Counselor License Type(s): Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyDepressionADHD
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, My name is doctor Steven Blakely, and I have a Ph.D. in psychology from California Graduate Inst. in Westwood California. I also have a Bachelors degree and Masters degree from Pepperdine University, in Malibu California. I have had varied work experiences in the field of psychology, including working 6 ears in two different mental hospitals, with inpatient psychiatric patients; as well as working 12 years conducting psychological and educational testing of children, adolescents and adults. I also have worked for 12 years with the skilled nursing and assisted living senior population, and had mostly worked with the following mental health issues prominent with that population: depression, anxiety, worry and grief. I have been. joyous and committed long-time seeker, meaning always wanting to learn, to advance my understanding and skills to apply to my working psychology population. I am largely committed to assisting patents cope with life through acceptance, meditation, mindfulness, inquiry work, and spiritual seeking. I have certificates in behavioral medicine and hypnosis. I have also compiled much therapy homework to further educate patients on how to manage mood and quiet the mind. I believe that mood stability is achieved through quieting the mind, and maintaining attention on the present moment with acceptance and nonjudgment.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Los Gatos

Finding the best therapist close by in Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos. 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 Los Gatos, 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos, 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Los Gatos, 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Los Gatos 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.

Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 95030 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 Los Gatos counselor?

Before seeing your Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos.

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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos, 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.

Los Gatos 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 Los Gatos, 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 Los Gatos.

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

95030, 95032, 95036

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