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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 06/21/2026
Availability last updated 06/21/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Life can feel overwhelming at times, and it is not always easy to know where to begin. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can slow down, reflect, and gain clarity about the changes you want to make. Together, we can explore what is getting in the way and identify meaningful steps f...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jun 25
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Lilly! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California. I received my Master’s in Counseling from Loyola Marymount University. I have over 8 years of experience working with teens, young adults, and adults. My approach My treatment approach focuses on depre...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jun 25
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I earned my Master's in Counseling Psychology from National University and hold a Bachelor's degree from California State University, Dominguez Hills. My approach I use various evidence-based methods, including Cognitive ...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Kalisha! Welcome, my name is Kalisha Brown, LCSW. I earned my Master's in Social Work from California State University, San Bernardino. My goal is to create a non-judgmental environment, emphasizing cultural awareness, while guiding clients to achieve their personal goals, development...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jun 25
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Jesse! My name is Jesse Jimenez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Master’s in Social Work from California State University, Monterey Bay. I strive to create a safe space where clients can explore complex feelings and emotions that feel like barriers to a meaningfu...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jun 25
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Karla! Hello, my name is Karla, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am of Mexican and Salvadorian descent and grew up in Highland Park. I am passionate about providing support and guidance in people's journey of healing. I believe every individual has the ability to s...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Life can be stressful and overwhelming at times. I provide a safe place for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. My goal is to help you feel equipped with the necessary tools to make the desired changes in your life. My approach I use an integrative approach, drawing from d...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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My name is Araina Lynn Hennen, MSW, LCSW, PPSC. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving the Bay Area. I completed my Master’s Degree in Social Work at California State University, East Bay in 2017. I also earned my Pupil Personnel Services Credential in 2016 at San Francisco State University....Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 26
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving clients in California and Arizona. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, and depression, offering personalized, evidence-based care. I provide a supportive, judgment-free space to help you feel better and regain balance.Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.64
·11 reviews
Patient listener and reassuring.Click to read more
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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I started my undergraduate education with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of California, Santa Barbara. After graduation, I worked as a salesman for ten years but always felt that I wanted to do more to really help people. While working, I went back to school, earning a Juris Do...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 65 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Tue, Jun 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience providing individual therapy to adults. I hold a Doctorate in Social Work from the University of Southern California and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and grief. My approach integrates evidence-based practices wit...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.78
·9 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 11 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have been practicing since 2011. I have experience in the areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief. I have been trained in a range of research-based practices including Managing and Adaptive Practice, Depression Treatment Quality Improve...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·7 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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My approach is non-judgmental and client-centered. I am passionate about helping others grow through mental health and recognize that life can be challenging and creating change can be difficult. I have been providing individuals with mental health treatment for 10 years, and my clinical strengths l...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Addictions Counselor (LAC) and I work with older teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, stress, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. I strive to create a space where you feel supported and validated, while also helpi...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 75 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am committed to supporting the well-being of people and their communities. Trauma and recovery and post-traumatic resilience are among my areas of focus. I am trained and certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Seeking Safety, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and I continue to tra...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I earned my Master's in Counseling from Antioch University, Los Angeles. I help couples learn to effectively communicate with one another and understand their relationship patterns, in order to help them build a stronger c...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in attachment, self-esteem, and relationships. I am trained in EMDR for trauma, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Gottman method for Couples. I work with adolescents and adults. I enjoy helping you find your unique nature and expression. M...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·6 reviews
Hermosa Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I believe the best way to make progress in therapy is having trust that your therapist understands you and makes you feel as comfortable as possible. I will try my very best to be that person for you. Therapy can seem weird, and vulnerability is hard for anyone. My name is Jess, and I am an LCSW in ...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jul 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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With 20 years of experience in the field, I’m passionate about helping people thrive by finding balance, clarity, and purpose in their lives. I take a collaborative, supportive approach that blends solution-focused and cognitive behavioral therapies to meet you exactly where you are. Together, we’ll...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Adam! Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working in the field for nearly 20 years. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California in 2005 and have worked with many different populations throughout my career. I primarily h...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 29 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Wendi! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Master’s in Clinical Social Work from California State University, San Bernardino, I am committed to supporting individuals in navigating life's challenges and fostering emotional well-being. With expertise in Eye Movement Des...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I’m a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist. I am committed to creating a safe, compassionate space for healing. It’s an honor to walk alongside you as you explore your inner world, and I deeply value the trust you place in this journey. My approach My approach is trauma-informed and grounded in deep...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I have been a licensed therapist since 2006. When clients choose me as their therapist, they usually stay with me or ask for me if they return. I received my doctorate in psychology in 2019, and my experience is broad. From adolescents to geriatrics, Veterans to multi-cultures, substance abuse and ...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Eva! My name is Eva Galván, and I am a bilingual (Spanish/English) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Diego, working with patients statewide. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief and stress eating, interpersonal...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed? You’re not alone. I help clients navigate anxiety, self-doubt, and life changes with compassion. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected—to yourself and the life you want to create.” My approach My style is warm, collaborative, and grounded ...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Are you tired of feeling anxious, depressed & insecure? I offer integrated approaches to help you explore & process emotions that often get in the way of living your best life.Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 29 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Angelica! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience helping individuals and families navigate life's challenges. I hold a Master’s in Psychology from Brandman University. I specialize in supporting clien...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Navigating complex trauma, addiction, or systemic barriers is heavy. You don't have to carry it alone. As a bilingual therapist, I offer a secure, confidential, and direct space for adults, veterans, and immigrants. We won't just talk—we will figure out what drives your patterns and build practical ...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Jun 27
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to providing a compassionate, supportive, and nonjudgmental space for clients of all ages. My goal is to help individuals navigate life’s challenges, build resilience, and feel empowered in their personal growth and healing journey.Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Jun 27
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in providing a supportive, person-centered, and empowering therapeutic environment. My work focuses on assisting individuals with a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, addiction, dome...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Rachel! I am licensed in California as a Marriage and Family Therapist and hold a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Holy Names University. I have been providing clinical support services for over ten years, working primarily with at-risk populations, including those i...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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When working with clients I have an eclectic and collaborative approach to therapy; my goal is to choose therapeutic techniques and interventions which will be a good fit with the client I'm working with. I enjoy this approach in working with my clients, because I believe no approach is a one-size-f...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.87
·30 reviews
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Edward, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a diverse background in the mental health field. I hold two master’s degrees—in Social Work from Loma Linda University and in Criminal Justice. Over the years, I have worked with families, individuals, and couples addressing issues such as...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
What makes my story unique is that Ive personally been in the clients seat. It was through my own healing journey that I discovered my true purposeto offer the same kind, compassionate support I once received during a challenging time in my life. Im passionate about giving back in this way and hopef...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
My name is Victoria Wuest, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist LMFT based in Redding, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents, and adults I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and stress. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT, Tr...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Jun 24
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.88
·8 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently eligible to see Telehealth clients in California and Florida. I have been practicing Holistic Psychotherapy in my private practice for 7 years specializing in Hypnotherapy and trauma resolution. I assist adults to navigate life transitio...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Ana! My name is Ana Guzman-Wiley, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Riverside, CA. I work with individuals using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to assist them in moving through difficult times. My approach I am...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Jun 27
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I’m Kathy, and I bring over 20 years of experience to creating a warm, supportive space for you to explore what’s on your mind. I focus on relationships and how they shape our lives, offering both individual and couples therapy.Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jun 28
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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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