Misty Walsh
My formal journey in psychology began in 1992, with one of my college majors, human communication. I went on to study Marriage & Family Therapy at Antioch New England before finishing a masters degree in Counseling Psychology at Webster University. Throughout my life I have traveled within 49 states; of those, I lived in the Midwest, the south, New England, the east coast & the west coast. Some of the places I lived were urban, some of them rural. Most of my last two decades have been urban. My roots though are rural. Very rural. During the last twenty years, I have traveled within over sixty countries. Prior to laying down roots in Oregon summer 2015, I had lived in four “foreign” countries, on three separate continents as an adult. This offers me a unique perspective in culture, values, religion, and life. Every person, every story, is unique. Every person is simultaneously simple on the surface, yet incredibly complicated underneath. I will see you - all of you - beneath the surface that you must maintain. I will respect how complicated you are, and where you are “coming from”… the complexities of your life; your history, the inter generational trauma, as well as what you have been and are currently living through. This is your safe place. Therapy is where you can let those heavy weights & feelings go. Choosing the “right” therapist means so very much in your healing. In first consultation, we will discuss your needs, and my scope of practice, and you can feel out if it’s a good fit for you. I have studied, and have been certified in, several modalities; but find that I lean in most to acceptance & commitment therapy. When we meet, I may draw upon this, or pieces of other modalities, depending on where you are in the moment. Therapy is about, and for, you … I have the education, experience, and tools to adapt to where you are and shift as needed. I am licensed for individual, couples, child, & family therapy in Oregon, California, Washington DC & Georgia. I am approved as an associate by Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors to supervise LPC & LMFT associates. I have also achieved E- RYT internationally and completed two semesters masters level coursework at the Arizona School of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine. I continue to study holistic & “alternative” approaches to health. I firmly believe that mental health is “health”. Every part of you is connected, all of your history is connected. The mind feels the body and the body feels the mind. One cannot be “healed” without the other. … they work together. I am here to aid that togetherness with you … and help you find peace & joy in your life.
Sharon (Shonnie) Brown
Hello! I'm a northern California native and have lived much of my adult life adapting to other cultures. Life's challenges and transitions, including divorce and shyness, have facilitated my growth as a psychotherapist, helping me to accept change as part of life. I received my B.A. from UC Berkeley and my M.A. in counseling psychology from JFK University in Orinda, CA. I have 25+ years experience as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), working primarily with individuals and couples. I have facilitated groups on separation and divorce, infidelity, co-parenting education, and social anxiety. Particular areas of interest are: major life transitions, separation and divorce, infidelity, couples and relationship counseling, broken friendships, self-esteem issues, young adulthood, employment issues, parenting, and aging issues. I am also a professional writer and use writing as a tool for emotional healing.. My work is honest, direct, and from the heart. I use a variety of approaches, including cognitive and solution-focused therapies, family systems, and psychodynamic. Recently I have incorporated Pete Walker, MFT’s roadmap on childhood trauma (Complex PTSD) into my work. An inability to self-soothe or tolerate one’s own feelings (i.e. hurt, anger, jealousy, guilt, fear) is the underlying main issue for my clients. The other main issue is lack of self-compassion, self-protection, and self-love. I use tools such as goal setting, coping skills, mindfulness exercises, and writing exercises (as desired) along with building a strong therapeutic relationship. Life is delicate and fragile. I work on optimism and gratitude every day. As human beings we can only take one step at a time. Please consider contacting me as a step toward the change you want in your life.
Rosemary Sara Chesters
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.
Dr. Patrice Fortune
Welcome to my page, my name is Patrice! Great appreciation for your interest and stopping by. Experience personalized one-to-one mental healthcare with concierge services. I specialize in customized mental healthcare with close therapeutic relationships developed as your dedicated therapist. Enjoy a range of conveniences and supportive care to fit your mental health, work, and lifestyle needs. Specializing in heart-mind connections with individuals, couples, corporate professionals, first responders, military and veteran challenges for emotional balance, mental clarity, and sustained resilience improves the immune system, health, and confidence. Devoted to enriching life with over two decades of experience assisting clients through an effective, compassionate process to gain inner confidence, build unshakable resilience, remove success blocks, develop loving, lasting relationships, and discover your life's purpose. You will have an opportunity to learn simple steps that you may seamlessly incorporate to produce dramatic, life-changing results and generate an abundant life on your terms. Find your inner strength and discover your true potential through collaborative care. When you are ready to take the first step, your compassionate, experienced concierge mental healthcare therapist can empower you. Once again, welcome to my practice. Thank you for considering my concierge services to assist you with your sensitive concerns. It is a pleasure and honor to serve you!
Laura Elena Mendoza
Hi there! I'm Elena, a marriage and family therapist licensed in California. I have more than 10 years of experience working with adults, children, and youth. I have helped people: -overcome depression -smooth out anxiety -develop deeper self-awareness -strengthen parenting and relational skills -learn new skills for coping with stress and self-doubt I have particular training in: -Mindfulness -Infant and Early Childhood Development and Parenting -Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) -Health Psychology My hope is that when our work is done you'll leave with a sense of readiness to take on the future and new tools to help you with any bumps in the road. You deserve to feel at ease in your life. I'm glad you're here.
Jennifer Jones
Hello! My name is Jennifer. I am interested in Arts, Spirituality, Traveling, Education, Synchronicity, Intuition, Animals, Nature, and Adventure. I feel that life is a journey and when we are in the process of therapy; briefly, we walk this journey together, me alongside you as you travel along your individual path. Working together, my approach is flexible and going with the flow with what works best for you. I'm willing to meet and support you in reaching your desired destination, wherever you're at on your journey. I took a therapy style test where I tested as having a therapeutic style that is supportive and nurturing. I believe in empowering you to have the life you want. Do you want to… * feel more connected? * be more present in your life? * have more meaning? * improve your relationships, communication, and connections with others? * feel empowered and achieve your goals? I can help. I believe we all deserve to reach our highest potential. I think it is good to reflect on our lives and to readjust to make our lives better. I believe in integrating mindfulness into our daily and weekly lives. Sometimes we are held back because of a difficult past or current life's events or trauma. I believe that in a good therapeutic relationship with an unconditional acceptance that we may achieve a lot together. I will walk alongside you in your own life journey path. Overall, I have a relational style in my therapeutic work. Meaning my focus is on the therapeutic relationship. I feel this relationship style can better help you transform your life. I believe that empathy and compassion are powerful change agents. I see this relationship as one based on unconditional positive regard, focusing on a client's strengths. My therapeutic style uses cognitive-behavioral approaches as a base, although I have an eclectic approach overall. I am interested in Narrative Therapy. I have even helped people with dream analysis. Improving your life is of the utmost importance. I am a California licensed clinical social worker with more than 18 years of experience in the mental health field. I have six years focusing on individual therapy. I have two master's degrees, one in clinical psychology from California School of Professional Psychology (now called Alliant International University), and another in social work from San Jose State University. I'm a certified trainer in WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan), as well as a certified Intentional Peer Support Trainer. Having worked in a variety of settings, my experience includes community mental health, corrections, mental health drop-in centers, residential treatment, mobile crisis response work, and inpatient settings. I have worked with individuals who are experiencing a wide range of concerns, including trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, clutter issues, mild to moderate eating disorders, and psychosis. I also have more than 18 years of management experience in behavioral health working within the county. I also have a background in client empowerment and patient's rights advocacy. I have worked with a wide range of mental health diagnoses from mild to moderate to severe mental illness. I have also been a Health Educator for Kaiser Permanente and taught the following classes: Improving Your Sleep, Couples Communication, Anger Management, Managing Anxiety, Depression, and Stress. My focus has been working with adults, including young adults and older adults in individual therapy. I believe in customizing treatment to meet the client's needs. I will work with you to help you create a better life that works for you. We will focus on areas that you want to improve, as well as on ways to reach your potential, improve relationships, and achieve your goals. I would love the opportunity to work with you so that together we can create and make your life better! Let me know if you have any questions or would like to talk to me more. I understand that finding the right therapist is a process. Finding a therapist that fits you can take time. I support you on this journey of self-discovery. Overall, I want you to feel self-confident to do what's best for you.
Yvonne McNeal
I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I have extensive experience working with teens and couples. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. While I use the Dialectical Behavior Technique, 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.
Dianne Martin
I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, confidence and motivation, depression and anxiety & career difficulties. Healing occurs in relationships, and 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!
Diana Fischer
I’m a marriage and family therapist practicing in California for over 30 years. I also provide coaching to families and parents as I see this as an effective way to move through the challenges families face today. I aspire to help parents feel confident and empowered as they become the agent for positive change in their family. I have stayed current as the times have changed and am aware of the ever-changing struggles the next generations are facing. The foundation of my work is to help individuals and families overcome the impact of multigenerational and sociological patterns of violence and addiction. My approach is heart centered and strength based with a firm belief that when one or all feels heard, supported, and believed in, a safe environment is created that leads to working collaboratively to build confidence and hope to create goals and achieve them.
Syed Shayan Mehdi
I've had a spiritual near-death experience, lost my loving mother to Cancer, immigrated as a child, lived under an oppressive regime in the Middle East as a minority, experienced complex family dynamics and through it all still believe that we are all meant to shine our light in this world. You may be reading this while at your lowest point in life but don't worry, I'm here to guide you back to your true self ("Remember Who You Are"). I'm a compassionate therapist who believes in the transformative power of healing through a holistic approach. With a deep understanding of the mind-body-spirit connection, I will successfully guide you through your journey of inner peace, emotional well-being & personal growth. My therapeutic approach combines evidence-based practices with mindfulness techniques, allowing you to explore your inner child, cultivate self-awareness, and develop effective coping strategies to address challenges such as anxiety, trauma, and depression. What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you? I provide a safe & nurturing space where you can explore your inner child & develop a sense of inner peace. By cultivating mindfulness & awareness, you'll learn to observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment, gaining a greater understanding of your patterns and triggers. I firmly believe that true healing lies in self-discovery and the cultivation of one's inner wisdom. In our sessions, you will embark on a journey of self-exploration, guided by the principles of mindfulness and spirituality. Together, we'll uncover underlying beliefs, patterns, and traumas that may be contributing to your anxiety, trauma & depression. We'll create a therapeutic journey that honors your unique experiences and supports your transformation toward a more fulfilling & balanced life. What treatment methods and tools do you utilize? Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Attachment-based Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Existential Family Systems Forensic Psychology Integrative Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Motivational Interviewing Person-Centered Positive Psychology Solution Focused Brief (SFBT) Strength-Based Trauma Focused Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths. I would say my ability to connect with you on a deep level & being able to carry your vulnerability where you feel heard & understood is my gift as I guide you & inspire you toward a solution to your life's problems. I'm grounded, spiritual & honor good values. I used to work in the Tech field so I'm aware of how "perfect" your life might feel to the outside world however chaotic things may be on the inside. I've provided therapy in prisons, schools, non-profits, government offices, hospitals, hospices & psychiatric institutions so my "well-rounded" experience prepares me for any issue you may present to me. My name means "Light" so my greatest gift to you is us shedding a 'light' on your problems and finding compassionate solutions to help you overcome all your challenges in life.
How to find counseling in Del Mar
Finding the best therapist close by in Del Mar 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 Del Mar. 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 Del Mar, 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar, 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 Del Mar area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar, 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment therapy
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 92014 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar, 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.
Del Mar 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Del Mar:
92014