Riverside, CA, is the birthplace of the state’s citrus industry. Here, you will not only find groves of oranges, lemons, and grapefruit but also the Parent Washington Navel Orange Tree. This tree was planted in 1873 and is the parent orange tree from which all navel oranges in the county can trace their roots. In the last 150 years, this single tree has multiplied, divided, and spread around the country. It’s a good metaphor for how persistence can pay off. If you need support with your personal growth, talking to a therapist in Riverside, CA, can help.

When looking for mental health services, there are many things to consider. Finding the best therapist for you can ensure that you get the treatment you need, but it isn’t always easy to do. There are plenty of therapists in the Riverside area, but using an online platform like BetterHelp can make finding the right therapist more convenient. With an online platform, you can access a range of mental health professionals in one place, making it easier to find a good fit. 

Whether you work with a licensed professional clinical counselor, a psychologist, or a licensed clinical social worker, a therapist can help you with a range of mental health concerns. Using various techniques, like cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and more, a therapist can help you improve your emotional well-being from a holistic point of view. If you need help dealing with the effects of domestic violence, want to work on having more successful relationships, or improve your mind, body, soul connection, talk to a Riverside-based therapist to get started.

 

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Lauren Ball

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
21 years of experience

I think that each of us at one time or another struggles with self worth, coping with crisis, interpersonal conflicts, or problematic behaviors and can benefit from a caring counselor who understands, helps identify solutions, and who doesn't judge. Together we will work as a team towards the goals that you set, and assess our progress as we go. The hardest part is recognizing the need for help and having the courage to get started. I look forward to taking the next steps with you. My style is to focus on the here and now, with practical strategies for making meaningful changes that fit you and your situation. I rarely dwell on the past, although at times it may lend helpful insight or identify patterns or beliefs that are affecting you today. My approach is to focus on strengths and solutions - without psychobable. I am licensed in California, with over 20 years of experience in helping individuals, couples, and families experiencing life changes, parenting challenges, family conflicts, relationship problems, or substance use issues. I also have expertise and experience working with people who are experiencing difficulties with recent or past traumatic experiences. Advanced Training: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM), Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS)

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Katie Aab

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA ,LMFT
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
9 years of experience

Hi! My name is Katie Aab and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Riverside, California. I have over seven years experience as a therapist, in both the Community Mental Health model and in Private Practice. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University in 2013. My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, career challenges, mood disorders, substance use issues, and OCD. I have also worked with clients who struggle with stress, loss, abuse/neglect, and the frustrations of life. I would describe my approach as empathetic, goal oriented, and client centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Solution focused therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Motivational interviewing to help my clients set goals and objectives, work through their traumas, and feel empowered once they have met their goals. I enjoy helping people through challenging situations. I provide a warm and non-judgmental environment, allowing us to better work together and reach your goals. Everyone deserves to have someone they can easily talk to; let me be that person for you. I look forward to working with you and guiding you in meeting your therapeutic goals as well.

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Dina Velazquez

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

Hello, my name is Dina Velazquez and I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist currently living on the east coast. I have over ten years experience as a therapist, in both the Community Mental Health model and doing clinical assessments for a health insurance carrier. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling at Pacifica Graduate Institue in Carpinteria, CA. My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, and substance use issues. My approach is client centered while also incorporating the use of other skills including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, solution focused and some Cognitive Behavioral therapies. I feel that each of our experiences are unique, and may require different avenues to attain wellness. Also experienced in: Addictions , LGBT , Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Physical Disabilities, Coping with life changes

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Dr. Patricia Perales Huerta

Offering therapy in CA
License: PsyD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
9 years of experience

Dr. Huerta earned her Master's and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology, Southern California. Dr. Huerta has worked with populations of different ages including children, adolescents and adults. Most of her clinical work has consisted of working with clients who have a history of trauma, in correctional / forensic settings. She utilizes a holistic approach that includes the role that neuro-psychology has on our emotions. In addition to utilizing evidence-based she has spent several years working with people seeking support in managing difficult relationships, whether romantic or family. Her main goal in the session is to make the client feel comfortable and safe by discussing concerns with her. It can be difficult to find someone with whom you feel that you can be your authentic "me". That is where she believes she can walk with you. Celebrating the uniqueness of each individual and helping them find their individual self, amid the demands of their daily life is her professional guide. Her client-centric approach aims to address the problem and help each individual use their unique skill set to reach that goal and develop new skills for the future.

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Justin Womer

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW,MSW,LAADC-CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
15 years of experience

It is not success that builds us, but how we handle adversity that creates character. Hello! I am a Clinical Social Worker, licensed in California with approximately 15 years of experience in Chemical Dependency, Addictions and psychotherapy. In all that time I have met numerous people walking different paths and living different experiences in life. There is no one size fits all in therapy, each of us is an individual, worthy of the dignity and respect that comes with our own lived story. I utilize a strengths-based approach in a non-judgmental and safe environment. I describe my technique as Rogerian and Client focused. I utilize Cognitive-Behavorial Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment approaches. I look forward to hearing from you. Come, let us walk the path together for now.

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Dr. Diane O'Brien

Offering therapy in CA
License: PhD,LPC, LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

Do you often find yourself struggling to sort out your thoughts and feelings about events in your life? Have there been times in your life when you have wondered if you have made the right choices or if there are other possibilities for you? We have all experienced life changing experiences that have shaped us into the people we are today. Sometimes, a listening ear is all we need. Other times, more in-depth exploration of thoughts and feelings is needed before you can feel better. Whichever situation fits for you, I am here to help. I have been in practice for over 20 years and have had experience working with a diverse group of individuals, couples, and families. Together, we have explored trauma events and their impact on individuals and families, family relationships, couples’ issues, and depression, anxiety, infidelity, spiritual dilemmas, and other experiences that have an effect on day-to-day living. My experience extends to adults of all ages, including an older population and caregivers. I am open to working with couples who are experiencing issues, particularly in the area of communication. Working with individuals who are in the early stages of dementia or Alzheimer's Disease are a new and interesting population for me. For me, counseling is a passion. Being a counselor is a calling, it encompasses me as a person and as a professional. It is my hope that you will contact me for counseling so that I can be your companion on your journey to a more peaceful and satisfying future.

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This is Jeffrey Stambook's avatar and link to their profile

Jeffrey Stambook

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Relationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I enjoy working with a diverse set of clients. Licensed in California since 2006 I have had the pleasure of sitting down to talk with a great number of individuals who were struggling with a variety of concerns. My work in mental health began in 1998 in a small farming community just outside of Bakersfield, CA. I was fortunate enough to be hired by a community health clinic to provide mental health case management for children and families. It was there that I realized my desire to help others and found my motivation to continuing me education and training. I went on to work at a variety of jobs including a mental hospital for a period of time so that I would have the skills necessary to serve clients in private practice. I began seeing clients in my own office shortly after getting licensed. I believe that one of the very best things that I can offer my clients is the gift of being heard. I will provide a safe space where clients can share their greatest challenges and know that I am listening. I will not judge them but will do my very best to encourage them and help them find solutions to their problems. I promise to treat every client with the highest level of respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I tend to approach my work from a cognitive-behavioral perspective. My work with individuals often involves some effort to change old habits including negative thinking. Marriage counseling has always been a significant part of my work. Those who do marriage well, take time to know what is going on with one another and make time to enjoy each other. I have had training in the methods of Drs. John and Julie Gottman and use their material with most of the couples that I see. You do not need to be “crazy” or be in significant distress to seek counseling. Sometimes our beliefs or expectations of ourselves or of counseling result in a delay in seeking help until situations become serious, or we are already in crisis. Many people tell us that they wish they had come to counseling sooner. Save yourself some avoidable distress and seek counseling earlier rather than later.

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Miranda George

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
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, family conflicts, parenting issues, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Jocelyn Wilson

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
19 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. I incorporate biblical principles such as prayer, renewing the mind, gratitude centered thinking, and scripture focused meditation when working with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts, feelings, and topics of faith can be explored without fear of judgment. Clients can then practically implement and live out their purpose. 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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Carolyn White

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Welcome! I provide virtual therapy in California, Virginia, and Alabama for anxious high-achievers and recovering perfectionists struggling with finding satisfaction in life, relationships, or work. I help you figure out what’s going on, let go of the panic, and feel more in control of your life by teaching you what to do with your feelings of anxiety, anger, and overwhelm. 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. My approach is warm, compassionate and direct. The therapy process involves learning about yourself, recognizing your patterns, and actively working on making changes to meet your goals. I will make jokes, cheer your wins, listen to your pain, challenge you, and offer practical experiences to build your confidence as you create the life you want. I have over 14 years of specialized experiencing supporting active duty military, first responders, veterans, government professionals, engineers, financial analysts and contracting officers with their unique work-life challenges.

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How to find counseling in Riverside

Finding the best therapist close by in Riverside 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 Riverside. 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 Riverside, 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 Riverside 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 Riverside 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 Riverside, elsewhere in Riverside, 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 Riverside area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Riverside 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 Riverside 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 Riverside 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 Riverside, 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 Riverside 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 Riverside 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 Riverside 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 Riverside 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 Riverside 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 92503 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 Riverside 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 Riverside 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 Riverside, 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.

Riverside 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 Riverside.

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

92501, 92502, 92503, 92504, 92505, 92506, 92507, 92508, 92513, 92514, 92516, 92517, 92521, 92522

Popular cities near Riverside, CA

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