Sometimes, you may feel like you're at the center of it all, for better or for worse. When you're dealing with depression, it can feel like the world is out to make you sad. When you have a life change, you may feel like life is against you. It can be difficult to get out of that mindset, but a counselor based in National City can help you. 

National City has a motto that is known as “In the Center of it All.” You can learn how to realize how to be in the center of everything good in life, and a counselor can help. 

This is Bethany Minick's avatar and link to their profile

Bethany Minick

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorder
5 years of experience

Please read before reading below: Please message me first before booking a time slot so that you and I can determine the next best step. Thanks! Hi, and thanks for visiting! My name is Bethany and I am glad to meet you! I was raised in a very eclectic city, thus I have an appreciation for culture, arts, music and outdoor activities! Did I mention I really love food and cooking? I do! I can be described as easy-going, understanding, down to earth and goal-oriented. I find myself constantly thinking about current goals, new goals and old goals. Don’t worry-I also know what it’s like to be kind to yourself when energy isn’t exactly matching goals. We all need a break sometimes! Sometimes we need a break from work, others or even ourselves. My goal is to help you find your path on your journey and help find what uniquely works for you! I have experience working with disadvantaged youth, couples, families, individuals with disabilities, support systems, advocacy, group homes and day programs and helping individuals manage psychiatric symptoms through collaborative efforts. I am able to work with: Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety Feelings of loneliness Grief Trauma Personal processing Interpersonal processing Individuals in caregiving positions Couples and Families My approach to therapy is Person-Centered. I practice Person-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for individuals. I follow Emotion-Focused Therapy and Gottman Theory for couples. I also have a niche for helping find alternative life strategies and helping to structure healthy routines. I am ready to hear your story and join with you on your personal process! *Note: Option for messaging only: If you are interested in having “live messaging only” therapy as an option, I am open to that and we can discuss what that would look like. *Note: You may send messages in between sessions. I check my mail 1-2 times daily and will respond to your message by 6 PM Monday-Friday. *Note: When it is time to schedule and depending on what time you select, I may also ask you to readjust that time up to 15 minutes if I have a client before or after you. This may be done to ensure that you get the proper time that you deserve. I understand that the service provided through BetterHelp is not intended for crisis situations and urgent needs. In a crisis situation, I agree to call 911 or local emergency services, or visit the nearest emergency room. Information shared with my counselor is confidential except in the following circumstances: If I present as a danger to myself or others, mandated reporting of abuse of children or elders, or if I sign a release of information.

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This is Ana Montenegro's avatar and link to their profile

Ana Montenegro

Offering therapy in CA
License: Psy. D. ,M.A.
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoaching
10 years of experience

Greetings! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California (LMFT) and I have been working in the counseling field for about 10 years. I have experience in conducting individual, marital, pre-marital and group therapy, in-office and online and in outpatient settings with clients who are presenting with depression, anxiety, relationship and parenting issues, teen concerns, and a wide range of other challenges and life adjustments such as: grief/loss, self-esteem issues, trauma, abuse, changes in the home, co-parenting issues, military life issues as well as personal growth and crisis. I mostly tend to draw from the cognitive behavioral approach because I believe that a good collaborative approach between client and therapist is conducive to a great outcome in treatment while addressing disturbances of cognitive processes that can affect functioning with a focus on changing cognitions to produce desired changes in affect and behavior. This means that I make an effort to check in with my client to consider the therapeutic relationship, I may assign homework as an optional exercise to further treatment while psycho-educating the client so that they are aware of how treatment will be structured and what will be focus of treatment. My approach is generally time limited and focused on addressing a structured target problem. While I may also draw from other modalities, such as solution focused and client centered approach meaning that I will address short-term goals and long-term goals while meeting the client "where they are" and not rushing the treatment. My goal is to create a welcoming, inviting environment and help in discovering themselves and bringing awareness to the client so that they may take an active role both inside and outside the therapy sessions and develop strategies to address the behavior changes they want to achieve. I also provide Christian Counseling as a guide to help clients achieve peace and provide support from a spiritual perspective. My Educational Credentials include: - Licensed by the State of California, Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) - Phillips Graduate University Masters of Arts in Psychology through the Marriage and Family Therapy program - Certified in Managing and Adaptive Practices (MAP) an Evidenced Based Practice -Certified in Seeking Safety an Evidenced Based Practice - Certified in Multi-Systemic Therapy (MST) an Evidenced Based Practice I enjoy and feel honored to be a part of someone’s personal experiences, and to be a part of their personal growth. We all carry a story and there is hope in every story. I am just a white canvas for you to paint your story. As a team, addressing challenges together, and coming to a resolution is a unique process for every individual and together we can find peace and freedom from pain for the purpose of living a life where you can find the beauty and peacefulness of this life. For my professional growth, I continuously read related literature, keep myself up to date with the ethical and legal guidelines in the field, and the latest research, and attend conferences and trainings. I believe in creating a safe space, free from judgment, where we can have difficult conversations for the purpose of working on resolving issues and collaborate on treatment plans that are tailored to your personal needs, goals and experiences. It takes a lot of courage and motivation to reach out for additional support. I am here for you and thank you for trusting me with your utmost personal dilemmas. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Eboni Williams's avatar and link to their profile

Eboni Williams

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LPCC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

Hi! My name is Eboni Williams and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Human Communication Studies from Howard University, my Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Loyola Marymount University, and completed the licensing requirements set by the Board of Behavioral Sciences in the State of California. Aside from this, I believe my most valuable qualification is real life experience! I have witnessed first hand how untreated mental health issues and major life transitions can affect an individual and those close to them. It’s one of the main reasons I believe I was called to this work. People change. Situations, feelings and needs change. Sometimes it takes a little help to sort things out — not from friends or family, but from an experienced professional. It’s okay to ask for help. Whether it's your first time trying therapy or you're returning for a tune-up, I am here to help you get back on track. Through our work together you will discover your strengths, break damaging patterns, heal from emotional wounds, and learn to make peace with the past in order to create space for what lies ahead. I help my clients achieve this and more by gaining an understanding of their unique wants and needs, then applying a combination of clinical expertise and relatable experience to achieve the desired outcomes. If this sounds like what you've been needing, then you're in the right place! Let's get to work… a better YOU is waiting.

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This is Alyce Redman's avatar and link to their profile

Alyce Redman

Offering therapy in CA
License: LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Reaching out for support can be tough. Life is busy and taking the time to focus on your mental health can seem like the last priority on your never-ending list. Relationships, work, struggling to manage emotions, daily stress, and unforeseen life events can add up. I’m so glad you are taking the time to take care of yourself, and I hope to help you along the way. My goal is to create a safe and validating environment where you can be open, vulnerable, and who you really are without any filter. I have worked with individuals and groups for over 10 years who are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. I specialize in CBT and DBT to help you learn new skills and make lasting change in your life. You are the expert, and I am here to help guide you to your goals. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Hoang Tran's avatar and link to their profile

Hoang Tran

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
18 years of experience

I am a family and marriage therapist, licensed in California with over 13 years of experience working as therapist. I have worked with clients between the ages of 7 to 70, with issues ranging from ADHD, depression, anxiety, marriage, divorce, relationships, parenting, anger management, and co-parenting. My therapeutic orientation is Client-Centered, Gestalt, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). I use different modalities of treatments, including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), rational-emotive therapy, motivational interviewing, from studies and data to help clients achieve maximum recovery. I know the ultimate decision is the client’s and often times a sounding board from someone who is objective, caring and verse in the helping field is all that one needs. We will be partners in developing a treatment plan that will meet your needs and unique lifestyle. Know that you are loved.

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Dr. Jan Capaccioli

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger management
23 years of experience

I am licensed in both Texas and California with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.

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Iris Duarte

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lbqtqi+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over fifteen years of experience.

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This is Michael Henry's avatar and link to their profile

Michael Henry

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Colorado with 16 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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This is Sonja Fisher - Carrington's avatar and link to their profile

Sonja Fisher - Carrington

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & 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.

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This is Jacqueline Shannon's avatar and link to their profile

Jacqueline Shannon

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hello! My name is Jackie Shannon and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counsellor III. Well before I pursued a formal education in Marriage and Family Therapy, I felt a strong pull to support individuals in addressing some of life’s most difficult challenges. In 2004, I supported the start-up of a grassroots organisation and proceeded to work in community mental health settings. For nearly 20 years I have worked with adults and teens experiencing mood, anxiety and addictive disorders. Since my initial introduction to the field of addiction and mental health I have worked to refine my skill set. Over the past 5 years I have spent a significant amount of time working in leadership to guide and train those developing clinical skills. I have recently returned to pursue that which I am most passionate about, providing therapy to individuals, couples and families seeking support and change. I make use of humanistic and existential approaches through a variety of experiential modalities. By creating a safe space for individuals to experience the discomfort of life’s challenges, I support individuals in developing relationship through trust, empathy, direct and candid inquiry, and down to earth humor. I encourage intuitive exploration through integrating talk therapy with present moment awareness. Through therapeutic collaboration, individuals gain greater access to insight, motivation and empowerment thus improving the way that they see and experience the world. I am a passionate and experienced therapist and have been told I bring sensitivity, humor, keen attentiveness, and enthusiasm to my work. I specialize in working with transitional age youth, adults, families and couples. I welcome the opportunity to serve people from all races, religions, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions, abilities, ethnicities, socioeconomic backgrounds, and am inclusive of all people without judgement.

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How to find counseling in National City

Finding the best therapist close by in National City 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 National City. 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 National City, 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 National City 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 National City 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 National City, elsewhere in San Diego, 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 National City area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed National City 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 National City 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 National City 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 National City, 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 National City 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 National City 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 National City 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 National City 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 National City 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 91951 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 National City 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 National City 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 National City, 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.

National City 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 National City.

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

91950, 91951, 92136

Popular cities near National City, CA

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