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315 verified Psychologists in Long Beach, CA
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 07/31/2026
Availability last updated 07/31/2026
Psychotherapist
3 mi · 4647 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90805
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 2 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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I am a bilingual licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I am dedicated to providing an open, non-judgmental, strength-based, and compassionate environment for individuals seeking emotional healing. Each individual is more than just their challenges and I aim to support my clients in tapping into th...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 21 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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BreeAnne E. Woods, LMFT, provides compassionate and tailored support to individuals across California, focusing on helping clients overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and significant life transitions. Practicing at LifeStance Health, BreeAnne creates a safe, non-judgmental space...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·7 reviews
Only had one session so far and already looking forward to working thru my mental aches and pains with LaQuita. This feels like a “teamwork makes the dream work” type match. Highly recommend!! ?????? - Feb 21, 2026Click to read more
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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LaQuita Suggs, LCSW, is dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complex challenges of life, from grief and trauma to anxiety and substance use. Practicing at LifeStance Health, she serves clients across California, providing compassionate, nonjudgmental care rooted in personal experience and c...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 20 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Samantha Sutfin, LCSW, provides compassionate and personalized mental health care to adults across California, helping them navigate lifes challenges with resilience and clarity. She offers individual therapy tailored to each persons unique needs, supporting patients as they work through anxiety, de...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 4
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Carson, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Most people don’t seek psychiatric care because life is going well. They reach out because something feels different, something has become too heavy to carry alone, or they have simply grown tired of surviving instead of living. If that’s what brought you here, you’re not alone, and I am glad you to...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist
2 mi · 3620 Long Beach Blvd, C7, Long Beach, CA 90807
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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Are you tired of being held back by patterns that aren't serving you? Whether you've felt stuck in cycles of anxiety or self-criticism, by unhealthy use of substances or the legacy of past traumatic or distressing experiences, our work can help you to experience life with more ease, purpose, and cla...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.75
·8 reviews
Khatya has helped me in so many areas of my life. She has a wonderful, kind and thoughtful way about her! I appreciate all she has done for me and would happily recommend her to others! by ADClick to read more
Long beach, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I specialize in Somatic Experiencing, Attachment-Based Therapy, and EMDR to support healing from trauma, foster emotional connection, and promote overall well-being. I hold a Master's in Psychology from the University of the West and a Bachelor's degree from California State University.Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with extensive somatic (body-based) training. With over a decade of experience in both community mental health and private practice settings, I am honored to support the community by providing the warm, attuned care that so many of us miss.Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Aug 6
Psychotherapist
5.00
·7 reviews
2 mi · 5150 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90804
Accepts UnitedHealthcare
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Welcome! I am currently offering both in-person and on-line appointments. I provide a space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to make real changes in your life. Maybe you're searching for more peace and connectedness, wanting support through a life transition, or strategies to change ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Aug 6
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 21 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I believe in the individual's voice and the therapist's non-judgmental approach as driving forces in building a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. My passion is helping individuals, couples, and families work through their traumas and stressors to develop effective ways to cope with life's...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Psychotherapist
2.5 mi · 3711 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90807
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
I am a a culturally competent, trauma-informed therapist who has worked with adults and adolescents in homeless shelters, community resource centers, mental health residential, and intensive outpatient programs. My goal is to offer a supportive environment where you can fully express yourself, gain ...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Aug 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Dr is great ,,forms for appointment was hard - Jul 20, 2026 by Michael P.Click to read more
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 7 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I believe whole heartedly in the healing power of therapy because I've seen first hand how it has improved the lives of those I've worked with and how it has improved my life personally. I'm passionate about supporting my clients, aiding them in their healing journeys, and helping them live more ful...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 31 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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My journey to becoming a therapist began in college as I became fascinated with human behavior. Coupled with firsthand experience in seeing the profound effect that mental health struggles can have on a person's life, I wanted to become someone who could offer support and guidance during difficult t...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Amanda is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Bonmente who supports individuals through a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, sleep difficulties, PTSD, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and personality di...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Aug 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 7 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I was born a helper, and my experience in the Navy enhanced my desire to support others struggling with mental health issues, no matter how small or large. As a therapist with a Master’s in Counseling from Webster University, I want to help those who are courageous enough to seek help and improve th...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
The visit was very timely and professional. I would recommend this service highly. - Jun 4, 2025 by Michael P.Click to read more
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 7 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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The provider is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and is currently working under the supervision of a licensed practitioner. Their current employer is Foresight Mental Health. I was drawn to the field of therapy because I’ve always been deeply interested in understanding the complexities o...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 4
Physician Assistant (Psychiatry) (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Sarah is a board-certified Physician Assistant at Bonmente who works with individuals experiencing ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and other mental health concerns. From the first evaluation through ongoing treatment and medication management, she takes a compassionate, empathetic approach tha...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Aug 6
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 7 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I was inspired to become a therapist through my genuine interest in understanding people and supporting them during difficult moments in their lives. I’ve always believed that with the right support, insight, and compassion, people are capable of growth and meaningful change. Being a therapist allow...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 59 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I profoundly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to create a fulfilling and emotionally healthy life. I help people utilize their inherent strengths, build meaningful support systems, and develop practical skills that promote lasting change and personal growth. I am driven to help individ...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Aug 5
Psychotherapist
4 mi · 5848 E Naples Plz, Ste 201, Long Beach, CA 90803
Accepts Aetna + 1 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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I work with high-achieving, nurturing individuals and couples to reduce anxiety, stop overthinking and. feel more connected. If the mental load is too much and you are used to holding it all together, it is time to address this challenge. Beneath the surface, there is often stress, pressure and burn...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 4
Physician Assistant (Psychiatry) (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Expertise in lower back pain + 2 more ·
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Joy and the supportive team at Bonmente are compassionate, highly trained professionals who are dedicated to making mental health care easy and convenient so you can focus on what matters most — feeling better and moving forward. Your mental health matters.Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Physician Assistant (Psychiatry) (Virtual)
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in upper respiratory infection (uri) + 3 more ·
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Erinn is a board-certified Physician Assistant at Bonmente who works with individuals experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and more. She earned her Master’s degree from Touro University Nevada and brings five years of experience and a collabo...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.20
·5 reviews
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time · Expertise in insomnia + 1 more ·
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Hi there, I'm Chika! Dr. Chika Okechukwu is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience treating clients with medical and mental health disorders. She earned her Master's in Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing from The University of Tex...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 11
Psychotherapist
2 mi · 5199 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste 308, Long Beach, CA 90804
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Maple Moriji was born on December 29, 1970 in Tokyo, Japan, an only child of a Japanese father and Danish mother. Instead of enrolling at a Japanese school, he attended a private international school called the American School in Japan (ASIJ). At ASIJ, he befriended other third culture children of d...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Sep 1
Psychotherapist
5.00
·8 reviews
Christine was the therapist I was looking for. She is compassionate yet direct in her approach and offers very helpful coping tools as well as reflections I did not notice on my own. by RMClick to read more
5 mi · 3020 Old Rnch Pkwy, Ste 300, Seal Beach, CA 90740
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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“It’s ok not to be ok.” Do you suffer from intrusive thoughts and expectations that become consuming, triggering anxiousness and depression? What you are experiencing can be related to past trauma, current relationships, and overall life challenges. Let’s put an end to racing thoughts and negative s...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist
2.5 mi · 3939 Atlantic Ave, Ut 227, Long Beach, CA 90807
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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Hello, I’m Maria Fernanda Perez, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked in a helping capacity for over 22 years. I specialize in working with violence and trauma survivors, teens, adults who have experienced challenges in their lives. I support individuals, couples and families who de...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Aug 29
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·19 reviews
Jamie was so kind and knowledgable, I would highly recommend her! - Nov 7, 2024 by Annalee T.Click to read more
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Jamie! Hi, I'm Jamie Fauth, PMHNP-BC. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with many years of experience treating a wide variety of disorders. I earned my Master's in Nursing from the University of San Diego. My approach I believe in a compassionate ...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Aug 19
Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·32 reviews
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time
Next available: Mon, Aug 24
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 44 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in bipolar disorder + 4 more ·
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As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with a Master's in Nursing from Western Governors University, I believe prioritizing mental health is key to an individual's happiness and continued stability in life. Seeking help can be one of the most ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 24
Psychiatrist (Virtual)
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
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I am a double board-certified in General, Child & Adolescent psychiatry. I am licensed in both California and North Carolina. My goal as a psychiatrist is to help young people develop into their best selves and help them achieve their potential in all aspects of life, be it personal, academic, or pr...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 25
Psychotherapist
5.00
·1 review
I have never felt so understood and accepted in therapy. Rebecca truly listens without judgment and makes you feel like you're more than just another client I always leave sessions feeling lighter, more hopeful, and with a better understanding of myself! by SOClick to read more
5 mi · 3020 Old Rnch Pkwy, Ste 300, Seal Beach, CA 90740
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Rebecca Steen, MS, AMFT, provides therapy to children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and relationship challenges. Many of her clients are used to pushing through and managing everything on the outside while feeling overwhelmed or exhausted underneath. Re...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Aug 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Cerritos, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I’m currently accepting new clients. You’re driven and accomplished, yet anxiety, overthinking, or self-doubt still show up more than you’d like. You appear to have it together, but internally you’re exhausted keeping up. I understand how easy it is to get stuck in that cycle and how to help you mo...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Aug 6
Psychologist
10.5 mi · 25690 Crenshaw Blvd 202, Torrance, CA 90505
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Also offers video visitsAccepting new patients
Next available: Mon, Aug 24
Psychotherapist
5.00
·1 review
11 mi · 16152 Beach Blvd, Ste 170, Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Joe earned his Master's in Psychology from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and holds a Bachelor's degree from the University of California, Irvine. He has experience working with a wide range of populations and mental health conditions. These include Anxiety Disorders, Bereavement Grief Counsel...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.86
·7 reviews
Loved my visit, definitely will be going back - Feb 19, 2026 by Gaige L.Click to read more
Westminster, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Patti Dilliner, LMFT, helps adults and seniors across California navigate life’s challenges with compassion and evidence-based care. At LifeStance Health, she provides individual and family therapy designed to foster healing, growth, and resilience. Patti works collaboratively with each client to id...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Westminster, CA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Medicare + 20 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Josh Suri, LPCC, helps teens, adults, and seniors across California navigate life challenges with clarity, purpose, and practical tools for lasting change. At LifeStance Health, he provides individual, couples, and family therapy, supporting those experiencing anxiety, depression, and relationship c...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Aug 6
Psychologist (Virtual)
3.33
·3 reviews
Didn't show up to the meeting. Waste of my time. - Nov 18, 2025Click to read more
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in anxiety disorders + 1 more ·
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Hi there, I'm Diane! Dr. Diane Dunne, Ph.D., is a Licensed Psychologist with over 29 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and groups. She earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from William Lyon University, her master’s from California State University, San Bernardino, and he...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 2
Psychotherapist
6.5 mi · 5212 Katella Ave, Ste 104 Los, Alamitos, CA 90720
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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Joshua Garth, LMFT, is a psychotherapist who specializes in treating online gaming addiction and social media addiction. He has worked in the realm of addiction for over 5 years, with over a year of experience in substance abuse treatment. Josh has been trained in many meditation/mindfulness techniq...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Aug 14
Psychotherapist
8.5 mi · 879 W 190th St, Ste 400 Rm 405, Gardena, CA 90248
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 22 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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I deeply enjoy having deep conversations about challenges like cross-cultural identity issues, anxiety, depression, and life transitions because I know how important it is to have an accepting professional that can offer an objective viewpoint with unconditional positive regard.Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Aug 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.95
·20 reviews
Dr Garcia is amazing for a first visit he put me at ease and he was attentive, asked the right question and I made a real connection with him! - Feb 17, 2023 by Lubna K.Click to read more
Westminster, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 20 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
*Note that prior to the first session with the provider, LifeStance requires a credit card on file. *LifeStance providers do not accept Medicare or Medicaid insurance. If you book with these, you will be unable to be seen. Dr. Gilberto Garcia-Torres accepts patients ages 18-64. Welcome to New Day...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 11
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Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

Primary Care Physician
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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with a Psychologist in Long Beach?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Psychologist in Long Beach, book an appointment, and see the Psychologist within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Psychologists in Long Beach who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find a Long Beach Psychologist who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Long Beach Psychologist who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with a Psychologist in Long Beach?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Psychologists in Long Beach and book appointments instantly. You can search for Long Beach Psychologists by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Psychologist in Long Beach?

When you search for Long Beach Psychologists on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Psychologists in Long Beach who match your preferences.


How can I find a Long Beach Psychologist who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Long Beach Psychologists with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Psychologist in Long Beach?

You can use Zocdoc to find Psychologists in Long Beach who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with a Psychologist online in Long Beach?

Psychologists in Long Beach on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Psychologists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Psychologist online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Psychologists in Long Beach who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find a Psychologist in Long Beach who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Psychologist who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find a Psychologist in Long Beach who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Psychologists in Long Beach. Many Psychologists offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


Who is a psychologist, and what do they do?


A psychologist is a mental healthcare expert who helps people learn to better manage their mental health conditions and life and relationship issues by conducting psychological evaluations and providing talk therapy. They support people going through difficult times, such as those living with specific conditions like depression, PTSD, anxiety, or grieving the loss of a loved one. They undergo years of education and training before being qualified to offer various mental health services.


Psychologists study and help treat people's emotional, cognitive, and social processes and behaviors. They offer the following services:

  • Identify behavioral and emotional patterns
  • Diagnose disorders
  • Make referrals
  • Come up with effective treatment plans


Some psychologists conduct independent research and offer client consultations or patient care. They can also collaborate with medical doctors and social workers as part of a team or work with students, teachers, parents, and other educators in educational settings. To accommodate patients, private practitioners work on weekends and evenings.


Training and education of a psychologist


To become a qualified psychologist, candidates pursue 4 to 6 years of graduate school. Before this, they must earn an undergraduate degree. They hold either a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree in psychology, granting them specialized training.


Students typically combine their coursework with research and teaching. This is done while they are enrolled in graduate and post-graduate programs. They have to finish a year-long supervised internship before graduating.


In some states, students must complete additional years of managed practice to receive a license. The potential psychologists must also pass a national exam and any other licensing exams their state requires.


What conditions do psychologists treat?


Your psychologist can help you manage various life stressors and treat mental and behavioral health issues. These problems could be either long-term or short-term. You can consult a psychologist if you experience the following:

  • Anger issues
  • Anxiety
  • Alcohol and other substance abuse disorders
  • Coping with a new serious diagnosis 
  • Managing a chronic illness
  • Gambling disorder
  • Body dysmorphic disorder
  • Depression
  • Gender dysphoria
  • Eating disorders
  • Family and relationship issues
  • Hoarding disorder
  • Postpartum depression
  • Sleep disorders
  • Grief and loss
  • Problems with work or school performance
  • Obesity
  • Phobias
  • Unhealthy habits
  • Trauma
  • Pain
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Stress management
  • Self-confidence issues


What is post-traumatic stress disorder?


Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stems from exposure to traumatic events. It affects people of all ages, ethnicities, and cultures. It can happen due to various traumatic experiences, like natural disasters, accidents, war, sexual assault, and violence. 


People with PTSD encounter persistent, distressing thoughts and feelings linked to the trauma, including flashbacks, nightmares, sadness, fear, anger, and detachment from others. Patients tend to steer clear of reminders of the traumatic event. A diagnosis of PTSD needs exposure to a traumatic event, whether personally experienced, witnessed, or learned about happening to a close one. Symptoms fall into four categories. These include intrusion, avoidance, alterations in cognition and mood, and alterations in arousal and reactivity.


Intrusion symptoms encompass involuntary memories, distressing dreams, and vivid flashbacks. Avoidance involves steering clear of triggers and avoiding discussions about the trauma. Alterations in cognition and mood in patients manifest as distorted beliefs, self-blame, detachment, and an inability to experience positive emotions. 


Alterations in arousal and reactivity may lead to irritability, recklessness, hypervigilance, being easily startled, and concentration or sleep problems. These symptoms often persist for over a month, causing significant distress and impairing daily life. Often, PTSD co-occurs with conditions like memory issues and depression. It can also co-occur with substance abuse and other physical and mental health problems.


Not everyone who experiences trauma may suffer from PTSD, and not all require psychiatric treatment. Some recover with support from family and friends, while others need professional help to overcome intense psychological distress. Trauma-induced distress is not the individual's fault, and PTSD is treatable. Early treatment increases recovery chances. Mental health professionals employ talk therapy and medication as effective, evidence-based PTSD treatments.


Psychologist vs. psychiatrist


Psychology studies the mind, emotions, and behavior, whereas psychiatry is an area of medicine that is concerned with diagnosing, preventing, and treating mental health conditions.

A psychologist has a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) with extensive clinical psychology or research training. 


Psychologists use psychotherapy to treat conditions related to mental health (talk therapy). Typically, a psychologist cannot recommend medication. Alternatively, a psychiatrist is a medical professional specializing in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses. They are qualified to prescribe drugs and different types of medical care.


Subspecialties in psychology


The following are some subspecialties in psychology:

  • Brain science and cognitive psychology
  • Child psychology
  • Clinical psychology
  • Counseling psychology
  • Developmental psychology
  • Experimental psychology
  • Forensic and public service psychology
  • Health psychology
  • Rehabilitation psychology
  • Sport and performance psychology


What to expect on your first visit to a psychologist near you?


Although every professional has their style of practice and client interaction, in general, you can anticipate a psychologist to do the following:


Ask questions such as:

  • What brings you here today?
  • What is your personal history?
  • When did your problem begin?
  • How do you feel about using drugs and alcohol?
  • What makes your situation better or worse? 


It might take more than one appointment for your psychologist to understand your mental illness, but answering these questions will help them gather information.


Take a few tests

They might ask you to take a few psychological tests after that. These can help your psychologist understand the issue you're presenting and ultimately aid in making a diagnosis. Tests might evaluate your personality traits, mood, memory, and concentration.


Talk about treatment

Your psychologist will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is suitable for you once they have a clear understanding of the issues you may be experiencing. Psychologists use various treatment methods that are scientifically proven effective. It involves multiple types of therapy, including:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Systems therapy
  • Interpersonal therapy


Finding the right psychologist near you in California


Are you looking for reliable psychologists in Long Beach, California? Before making an appointment, consider several factors. These include the type of insurance, the date of the consultation, the necessary specialty, etc. Zocdoc can help you do all this. It is an online tool that makes it simple and quick to make appointments.


All you need to do to begin scheduling appointments on Zocdoc is register for a free account. Then, enter information such as symptoms, doctor specialization, date, and insurance plan. Your search results will generate a comprehensive list. Use filters based on visit type, gender, hospital affiliations, and whether or not they treat children to further whittle down the search results. Once you've chosen a few doctors to interview, read through their biographies to learn more about them, including their credentials, affiliations, awards, areas of specialization, languages, etc.


Finally, you can use Zocdoc-verified reviews by past patients to compare doctors and reserve an appointment with the right psychologist in person or virtually.


Booking appointments with a psychologist near you through Zocdoc is safe, quick, and 100% free.


Statistics about psychologists in California


According to California Health Care Foundation statistics, nearly 1 in 7 California adults experience mental illness. 1 in 26 has serious mental health problems that make daily life difficult. The numbers related to the population under 18 are also concerning. Across 2018-19, 5.9% of California children experienced anxiety, and 2.5% went through depression.


The National Library of Medicine reported that around 18.8 million adults (7.6% of adults) in 2021 had at least one major depressive episode.


As per the reports by the American Psychiatric Association, nearly 3.5% of adult Americans have PTSD annually. For adolescents aged between 13 and 18, the lifetime prevalence of PTSD is about 8%. Approximately one in eleven people will receive a PTSD diagnosis during their lifetime. 


Sources


Cleveland Clinic

Healthline

WebMD

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics[1]

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics[2]

National Library of Medicine

California Health Care Foundation

American Psychiatric Association


The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.

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