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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 04/22/2026
Availability last updated 04/22/2026
Psychologist
4 mi · 5848 E Naples Plaza, Long Beach, CA 90803
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
I have extensive experience in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorders, and Relationship Issues. My approach to a person's problems involves the entire person. I have been trained extensively in the Neurobiological approach to treatment, which is often referred to as the Mind-Body conn...Click to read more
Next available: today
Psychologist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
i'm looking forward to our next sessionClick to read more
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 26 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Michael Chindamo is a Psychologist in California who has been practicing since 2009. He holds a PsyD in Clinical Psychology from Ryokan College, an M.A. in Counseling from the University of South Florida, and both a B.S. in Neurobiology and a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Rochester. ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
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 + 23 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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist
3 mi · 4647 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90805
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 9 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: today
Psychotherapist
5.00
·7 reviews
2 mi · 5150 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90804
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 1 more
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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·12 reviews
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Stephen Lovejoy, LMFT, is committed to helping patients navigate their mental health challenges and build a foundation for lasting well-being. Practicing at LifeStance Health in California, Stephen provides compassionate care to children, adolescents, and adults, addressing a wide range of issues su...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 28
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
- Jan 21, 2026 by Waliyya N.Click to read more
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 38 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: Fri, Apr 24
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: Mon, Apr 27
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Do you find yourself overthinking, people-pleasing, or struggling with self-doubt; even when things seem “fine” on the outside? You may feel overwhelmed by anxiety, past experiences, or relationship challenges, and unsure how to move forward. I help adults navigating anxiety, trauma, and self-worth ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 28
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 18 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: Wed, Apr 29
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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist
5.00
·5 reviews
Thank you so much for all that you've done for my daughter! by TTClick 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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Life can feel overwhelming-whether you're dealing with stress, relationship struggles, or big life changes. You don't have to figure it all out alone. I'm here to help you work through challenges, find clarity, and build the tools you need to feel more confident and in control. My approach is warm,...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.75
·8 reviews
I always felt like I had a safe place when seeing Khatya. She always made me feel comfortable and supported. I would recommend her to anyone! She is truly amazing, sweet, kind and you can just feel the genuine care that she gives to her clients. by SCClick 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, Apr 28
Psychotherapist
5 mi · 3020 Old Rnch Pkwy, Ste 300, Seal Beach, CA 90740
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 75 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I decided to become a therapist because mental health wasn’t something openly talked about in my family or community—it was often seen as a taboo. I wanted to change that, not just for my loved ones but for others who may feel the same. In college, I went through one of the lowest points in my life,...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 24
Psychotherapist
5.00
·11 reviews
It was a pleasure to work with Nadia, I highly recommend her! by MDClick 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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Hi, I'm Nadia. she, her, hers I use a holistic, results-driven approach to therapy, focusing on recognizing and nurturing individual strengths and resilience. My goal is to make the healing process both challenging and enjoyable, incorporating fun, spontaneity, and creativity. Whether you're d...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 24
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 26 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Colleen Cunniff, LMFT, is dedicated to helping individuals and families in California navigate life's challenges with compassion and expertise. Specializing in individual, couples, and family therapy, Colleen works with children, adolescents, and adults to address concerns such as anxiety, depressio...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, May 11
Psychotherapist
3 mi · 320 Pine Ave, Ste 1030, Long Beach, CA 90802
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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Wenonah is a licensed therapist at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She has several years of experience working with children, adolescents a...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 28
Physician Assistant (Psychiatry) (Virtual)
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 18 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · 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, Apr 27
Psychotherapist
2 mi · 3620 Long Beach Blvd, C7, Long Beach, CA 90807
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
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, May 5
Physician Assistant (Psychiatry) (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 18 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
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, May 7
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.20
·5 reviews
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 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: Wed, Apr 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 78 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I have always enjoyed working in a position that allows me to be of service to others; whether that be in a community customer service role, lending a helping hand, being a good listener, or providing community resources to those in need. There have been very important people in my life who did not ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Apr 27
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 75 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: Mon, Apr 27
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
1.00
·1 review
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I was inspired to work in mental health care by my father. My father raised me and we were very close. He would always pick me up from school and take me out for ice cream. It was our quality time together where he would encourage me to talk about my day at school. This was the first example of what...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Apr 27
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Ethan was very polite and patient - Jun 19, 2025 by Kseniya S.Click to read more
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 41 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, Apr 27
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Andrea! Welcome! The greatest positive outcomes are found within integrative practices that champion growth and empowerment. My clinical style is holistic and person-centered, following a strength-based perspective tailored to meet the unique experience of each person. I hold a Maste...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 1
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 80 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
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: Tue, Apr 28
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 80 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
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, Apr 28
Physician Assistant (Psychiatry) (Virtual)
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 18 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in upper respiratory infection (uri) + 3 more ·
Read bio
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, May 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 75 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
The provider is an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor and is currently working under the supervision of a licensed practitioner. Their current employer is Foresight Mental Health.Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 29
Psychiatrist (Virtual)
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 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, May 5
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 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: Tue, May 5
Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·31 reviews
Long Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time
Next available: Wed, May 13
Psychotherapist
5.00
·1 review
5.5 mi · 4050 Katella Ave, Ste 207, Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
What if you woke up one day and all your problems were gone? What would your life look like? Take a minute and imagine the possibilities. Well, problems don't just disappear, and pain doesn't just go away. In a warm, safe, and supportive space, I will empower you with the tools and skills needed to ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 30
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Westminster, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 22 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Rosangela Dardon, LMFT serves individuals across California with a focus on personalized, empathetic care. Specializing in trauma-focused therapy, she works with adults of all ages to help them navigate life's challenges, including anxiety, depression, and grief. Rosangela's approach is grounded in ...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 24
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Westminster, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 19 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Melissa Gallardo, LMFT, helps adults and older adults navigate emotional challenges with clarity, compassion, and practical tools for change. She provides individual therapy through LifeStance Health to patients across California, offering a supportive space for those seeking relief from distress, i...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Apr 27
Psychotherapist
5.00
·2 reviews
I was recommended to PATRICIA by a close friend that found her to be extremely helpful during a difficult time for her. When my relationship ran into some trouble, I called Patricia. I was hesitant at first, but she walked me through the process. I didn't think my relationship would survive but i...Click to read more
11.5 mi · 3868 W Carson St, #311, Torrance, CA 90503
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 1 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
When life has become too stressful, change may not be as difficult as you may think. If you are ready to make the changes necessary so that your life has hope, balance, health, and peace, then I may be able to help you reach your goal. Change happens when you feel supported and confident. In therap...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychologist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a licensed psychologist and I work with adults, couples, and adolescents. My areas of clinical focus are relationship issues, adverse childhood experiences, and trauma-informed therapy. I approach therapy as a collaborative experience where we co-create healing and wellness. My approach I see m...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 24
Nurse Practitioner (Psychiatry) (Virtual)
San Pedro, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in upper respiratory infection (uri) ·
Read bio
Hi, I’m Gretchen — a double board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care for teens and adults navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood challenges. My goal is simple: to create a space where you feel safe, heard, ...Click to read more
Next available: today
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Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

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In the business of finding quality care for patients

Patients trust Zocdoc
Zocdoc saves me so much time I used to spend calling around to find a place that takes my insurance or finding openings with doctors on the list provided by my insurance!
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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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