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315 verified Psychotherapists 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 05/31/2026
Availability last updated 05/31/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 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 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 34 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 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi! My name is John Garcia, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Orange County, CA. I hold a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from California Baptist University. I seek to support individuals through the process of improving mental health, addressing difficulties, and a...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I work with children, adolescents, individuals, and couples, supporting them through anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relationship conflicts. I believe that healing and growth happen in a space where you feel safe, understood, and empowered.Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Jonathan! Hello, my name is Jonathan Frankel. I am a licensed clinical social worker based in Southern California, working with clients throughout California via telehealth. I hold a Master's in Social Work from the University of Connecticut. I work with individuals and couples dealin...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jun 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Therapist dedicated to supporting individuals as they navigate life’s challenges and transitions. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, helping clients build emotional awareness, strengthen coping skills, and develop healthier relationships with themselves and others.Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 34 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Karen! My name is Karen Derman, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Goddard College. Is your child or teen struggling at home, in school, or in their relationships with others? Does your young adult have difficulty ge...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Carol! My name is Carol Koshimizu, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master’s in Counseling from the University of Phoenix. My approach is to join with you in a safe environment; to guide and support you in healing using the most innovative therapies. I will wo...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jun 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
The first steps to your healing journey have already begun. Congratulations on taking the initiative and overcoming the fear of reaching out for support.Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. My approach I use a client-centered and strengths-based approach, ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jun 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 35 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Margarita! I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, anger management, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Jun 6
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 34 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 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Life can move faster than we can process. You may be the strong one, always holding things together, yet lately even small things feel heavy. Therapy offers a safe place to pause, unpack what’s weighing on you, and begin finding your balance, peace, and sense of self again. My approach I use Cognit...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jun 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Welcome! My name is Michele. I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist actively working in the field since 2019. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from San Jose State University and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Palo Alto University. My approach My therapeutic style invo...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 35 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Jane! Jane Garnett is an Oxford-educated therapist, guide, and creative visionary with over 18 years of private practice experience in California. She blends talk therapy, attachment-focused EMDR, and a focus on spiritual connection to help individuals reclaim aliveness through deep h...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Dina! Hi! My name is Dina Nelli. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and earned my Master's in Social Work from California State University Long Beach. I enjoy really getting to know my clients so that we can come up with treatment goals to work on together. My approach ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jun 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi there, I'm Angela! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's in Counseling from Argosy University. My goal is to provide you with tools to enhance the potential you already possess. My style is direct and encouraging while allowing you to choose your priority. My approach I...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Are you feeling burnout, depressed, anxious, or as though your life is stagnant? I am here to offer a gentle hand to guide and support you through the various challenges that arise throughout your life. I believe every individual is unique, with their own strengths, experiences, and challenges. When...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jun 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I provide EMDR for those seeking a more profound therapeutic experience. I specialize in complex trauma, depression/anxiety, and substance abuse by offering a personalized therapeutic approach for each individual. Using tailored, evidence-based techniques, I aim to create a clear path toward what yo...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.86
·7 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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“If the only tool you have in life is a hammer, everything looks like a nail!” Therapy is not for “weak” or “sick” people but can be an excellent way to fill your “toolbox” with skills to improve relationships, communicate more effectively, manage stress, emotions, and navigate life transitions. The...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.67
·3 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I specialize in helping expectant and new parents adapt and thrive in their new roles. The transition into parenthood is one of the most profound life changes, and it can come with emotional and psychological challenges. I believe that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Whether you're de...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.83
·40 reviews
Had a great experience in my first session and looking forward to working with one another. She’s an amazing listener, super compassionate and very easy to talk to. - Mar 23, 2024 by Abby B.Click to read more
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Sometimes, the most profound connections are formed when someone truly listens. I’m Cintia, here not just to hear, but to deeply understand you. In a world where trauma and anxiety often drown out our inner voices, I know that beneath the spoken words lies a heart’s true narrative. What a degree in...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Sometimes difficult moments leave us feeling stressed, depressed, anxious, angry, and at times, all of those emotions at once. But you do not have to face these challenges alone. Through therapeutic support and guidance, these same challenges can be approached as opportunities for growth and positiv...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing telehealth services to children, adolescents, and adults across California. As a bilingual therapist fluent in Spanish, I have extensive experience supporting clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and deeply value culturally responsive care...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·7 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
All of us face challenges in dealing with what life can often throw at us. Sometimes we need some help or an outside perspective that we can trust and feel safe with to assist us in seeing these challenges in a new light. As this can be an intimidating process for some, I strive to create a safe and...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, my name is Ricardo Gonzalez, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to supporting you through this time in your life's journey. I am based in Sunnyvale, CA, and work with clients throughout the great Golden State of California. I currently offer Telehealth services only (...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Jun 6
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
- Dec 23, 2023 by Jason P.Click to read more
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi, thank you for stopping by and reviewing my profile. I know that the journey to therapy and finding the right therapist can be daunting, but you've made a great first step toward your healing and mental health. I am a strength-based therapist who likes to sprinkle in other modalities such as Cogn...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 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 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
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 6
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm an LMFT, a therapist with over 15 years of experience based in the San Francisco Bay Area. I help adults navigate anxiety, trauma, depression, and life transitions using a compassionate, trauma-informed approach that supports lasting healing and growth.Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
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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 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 35 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 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I’m excited to join PATH as a Therapist. I am a highly experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 20 years of experience working across various Behavioral Health Programs. I received both my bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Substance Abuse and my master’s degree in Social Work ...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jun 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Anita! Anita Jackson, LCSW 94587. I became a therapist because witnessing the growth in others is fulfilling and inspiring. I will help you find the strength and resources to achieve your goals. If you are hurting, stressed, or troubled by your current situation and would like suppor...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 18 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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If you are looking for structured CBT or skills-based homework, I may not be the right fit. Therapy with me involves examining avoidance and ambivalence as they arise (I’ll tend to be more direct with you when emotional or mental patterns like that emerge). Most people don’t need more advice. They ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 70 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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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 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.89
·9 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Muñoz. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering tele-health services to individuals above the age of 18. I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California (USC). I have been practicing for 7 years. My services are available in bo...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.70
·10 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
My name is Kimberly. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I earned my Master's in Social Work and my Master's in Public Health from the University of Southern California. I have about ten years of experience in mental health and medical social work. I received the majority of my tra...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Beau! Starting therapy can feel like a big step, I congratulate you on starting your journey. I specialize in working with those with anxiety, depression, trauma and navigating through life changes. My goal is to create a warm, safe place for you to learn skills to face life's challeng...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jun 7
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Frequently asked questions

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

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


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

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Long Beach Psychotherapist 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 Psychotherapist in Long Beach?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Psychotherapists in Long Beach and book appointments instantly. You can search for Long Beach Psychotherapists 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 Psychotherapist in Long Beach?

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


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

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


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

You can use Zocdoc to find Psychotherapists 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 Psychotherapist online in Long Beach?

Psychotherapists 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 Psychotherapists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Psychotherapist 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 Psychotherapists 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 Psychotherapist in Long Beach who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Psychotherapist 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 Psychotherapist in Long Beach who sees patients during the weekend?

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


What is psychotherapy? Who is a psychotherapist?


Many people cannot express their emotions and instead repress their emotional baggage. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, which involves talking to a trained professional about various kinds of emotional distress, can help people better communicate their feelings and deal with their psychological issues. Not being able to manage and express your emotions can significantly harm your mental health, especially in the long term. There can be several reasons why people might opt for psychotherapy, including:

  • Anxiety or depression
  • High stress 
  • Drug or alcohol addiction 
  • Mental trauma 
  • Marriage issues 
  • Societal pressure 
  • Family conflict or loss of a loved one
  • Low self-confidence

Psychotherapists are trained medical professionals who help deal with mental illnesses and emotional problems; they seek to understand and address your behavior systematically through therapy. Psychotherapy, when employed independently or alongside medication, can help individuals achieve greater well-being. 

Psychotherapists often work in several settings, including private clinics, hospitals, medical schools, rehabilitation, and mental health centers. They also collaborate with social workers, doctors, teachers, and parents to better fulfill their roles. 


Education and training of a psychotherapist


Counseling and psychology training is a necessary qualification for psychotherapists. While completing an undergraduate degree in psychology is ideal for aspiring psychotherapists, this career path is also accessible to people with other undergraduate degrees as long as they make up for the requisite coursework. After receiving an undergraduate degree, an advanced degree in psychology must be pursued, especially considering how most psychologists have a Ph.D. or Psy.D. (Doctor of Psychology Degree). 

After receiving their graduate degree, aspiring psychotherapists must successfully pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP), obtaining a score of 500 to pass the test as per the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) guidelines. Next, individuals must complete supervised training of 1500-1600 hours to work as professional psychotherapists. 

Of course, a state license is mandatory to practice as a psychotherapist. Licensing requirements differ from state to state, and some also require psychotherapists to complete ongoing education to retain their licenses. 


When should you visit a psychotherapist near you?


You can visit a professional offering psychotherapy near you if you are stressed and emotionally disturbed due to issues such as:

  • Relationship/marriage conflict: Conflict and lack of intimacy can drastically affect relationships and marriages, resulting in emotional problems or mental illnesses. Psychotherapists can help manage such issues and help find workable solutions. 
  • Trauma: Trauma can make individuals less capable of managing emotions such as fear, sadness, anger, and shame, resulting in compulsive behavior and even physiological issues. Therapy can help individuals suffering from trauma to better process their emotions. 
  • Insomnia: A relatively common disorder, it makes falling or staying asleep challenging. Psychotherapists can better explore the root causes of insomnia and help people by teaching them better sleeping habits
  • Depression or anxiety: Mental illnesses like depression and stress can cause various symptoms, including restlessness, chronic fatigue, guilt or hopelessness, etc. These conditions can even present together, making it all the more important to consult a mental health professional for therapy. 


What to expect during your therapy sessions?


Going for your first therapy session can be overwhelming, especially if you don't know what to expect. You may have many apprehensive thoughts. Will my therapist judge me? Will they expect me to share memories from the past? Will I like my therapist? The nervousness is normal, but psychotherapists understand how to make patients feel safe and comfortable. 

During your consultation, the psychotherapist will begin by getting to know you. You can expect them to discuss your education, work, family, social life, relationships, and medical history. They may also ask about your current coping strategies or if you have previously taken therapy. All of this information will set a foundation for future therapy sessions. Remember that you, too, have the right to learn about your therapist, so you can ask questions about their training and experience to understand if you've made the right choice. 

After a brief understanding of your situation, they will move on to the main subject—your reason for seeking therapy. You can openly tell them your issues and areas you wish to improve. It is possible that you feel overwhelmed or uncomfortable sharing all the details at once. Be honest with your provider and tell them if you need more time. There are no set rules; you and your therapist can decide the pace of your therapy or treatment plan. These may also include discussing your short-term and long-term goals. 

Before committing to a long-term partnership with your therapist, evaluate your experience from your first session. If your therapist is an attentive listener, honest about their expertise, makes you feel comfortable, validates your feelings, and respects your boundaries, you can trust them. 

In the subsequent few sessions, your therapist will prepare a treatment plan, combining different therapeutic interventions based on your unique situation. Some common ones include cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, person-centered therapy, and interpersonal psychotherapy. They will explain how your future sessions will pan out. You will also likely get homework assignments to complete in between consultations.


What is the primary difference between a psychiatrist and a psychotherapist?


A psychiatrist and a psychotherapist are both mental health professionals, but their education, training, and treatment approaches differ. Psychiatrists are medical providers who diagnose, treat, and manage mental health diseases using a range of therapeutic techniques and medical interventions. 

Psychiatrists are authorized to prescribe medications and perform medical procedures related to mental health. To become a psychiatrist, one must complete medical school to get a medical degree (MD) or a doctor of osteopathic medication (DO) degree. They must also finish a residency program in psychiatry. It typically takes around 8-10 years of postgraduate study.

Psychotherapists are also highly qualified professionals who hold advanced degrees in psychology. Their main role is to come up with a diagnosis and treat mental health disorders using different therapy techniques like psychoanalytic therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. Other treatments that are occasionally combined with psychotherapy include:

  • Animal-assisted therapy involves dogs, horses, or other animals who provide comfort, assist with communication, and help people cope with trauma.
  • Creative arts therapy involves using art, dance, drama, music, and poetry as therapeutic methods.
  • Play therapy helps children recognize and discuss their emotions and feelings.

It is important to note that psychotherapists are not authorized to prescribe medications. They usually work in conjunction with psychiatrists to provide complete care for their patients.


Tips to improve your mental health


By caring for your mental health, one can experience improved mood, reduced anxiety, clearer thinking, deeper relationships, and enhanced self-esteem and confidence. Overall, mental health influences every aspect of people's lives, shaping perspectives and the ability to navigate challenges. This is why developing habits for better mental health can significantly enhance one's daily life. Here are some tips:

  • Stay in the present: Our minds tend to wander into the past or the future more often, stirring various emotions and reactions in the body. Try to pay more attention to the present moment. Make all your senses focus on what's happening in the 'now.' It is commonly called mindfulness. Practicing mindfulness meditation can significantly improve your mood. It can help you understand yourself better and help you enjoy your surroundings. It can positively change how you see, feel, and approach your life's challenges. 


  • Connect with people: Human relationships can improve mental well-being. They can help foster a sense of belongingness and self-worth. Strong relationships provide emotional support when required and allow you to share positive experiences. Make it a point to spend quality time with your family daily. For instance, keep a fixed dinner time when the family eats together. Plan a day out with your friends. Switch off your devices and aim to talk or do an outdoor activity with your friends or family. Visit a family member or friend who requires support. Or volunteer for community work or at a local school or hospital. 


  • Learn new skills: Learning new activities or skills increases nerve activity in your brain, which can help improve your mental health. It can also boost confidence and self-esteem, help build a sense of purpose, and help you to connect with others. Try to learn to cook or learn to fix electronic devices. Work on DIY projects at home, like fixing broken stuff or doing something for the first time. Try a new hobby like writing or painting. Or, take up new responsibilities at work that help improve your skills. 


  • Stay physically active: Regular exercise or activity is a great habit to stay healthy physically and mentally. It causes positive chemical changes in the brain that enhance your mood. It boosts self-esteem and helps set goals and achieve them. Brisk walking is an excellent way to begin your fitness routine. Gradually move to running and aerobic exercises. The aim should be to stretch and move every muscle in the body. You can even do flexibility and strength training to enhance muscle strength and balance and reduce joint pain.


Finding the best psychotherapist near you in Long Beach, California


Finding a good counselor, therapist, or psychotherapist can be challenging, especially because many options are available today. Zocdoc can help you narrow down the choices based on your preferences and requirements. Zocdoc is a one-stop solution for all your medical needs, from psychotherapists to oncology specialists. Register for free on the platform and begin your journey towards wellness. 

You can quickly filter through Zocdoc's massive database of medical practitioners based on your condition and symptoms, location, and insurance coverage plan. If you are unable to find your insurance plan on Zocdoc, you can upload a photo of your medical insurance card. Our system will scan the image of your card and display your most likely plan. If you experience trouble uploading your card's image, you can always reach out to our service team for assistance. For further insurance-related FAQs, refer to Zocdoc's patient help center

Zocdoc will then list several professionals who match your choices. Each doctor's profile on the platform contains information on their gender, educational qualifications, training, certifications, and languages spoken. Zocdoc also offers verified reviews and ratings by confirmed patients of each physician. You can book an appointment on the platform once you have found a psychotherapist near you. Zocdoc also allows you to book video consultations; a purple video icon displays on the physicians' profiles, offering this option.

All the bookings on Zocdoc are secure and free of charge!


Mental health statistics in California


Mental health is - unfortunately - often taken for granted, despite poor mental health being a significant risk factor contributing to diseases such as heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, cancer, seizures, etc. As per the National Alliance on Mental Illness, approximately 5,566,000 Californians suffered from a mental health condition in 2021, while over 46.1% of adults reported cases of anxiety or depression in February 2021. 

Even teenagers are developing severe mental conditions; in 2021, approximately 396,000 children aged 12-17 reported having depression in California. Preventive care and therapies are necessary in cases of anxiety or other mental disorders. California is lacking in detecting and ameliorating mental illnesses, especially considering that nearly 64% of children (aged 12-17 years) diagnosed with depression did not receive any preventive medical care last year. In 2021, California lost 4,491 lives to suicide, while over 1,232,000 adults indicated that they were having suicidal or depressive thoughts. 

Now is the time to take charge of our mental and emotional health. Therapy can be an incredible tool for people dealing with negative thoughts, feelings of sadness, or grief. Schedule an appointment with a psychotherapist if you are going through a particularly challenging period.


Sources


WebMD

American Psychiatric Association

BestAccreditedColleges.org

Forbes

Self

National Alliance on Mental Illness

University of California San Francisco

GoodTherapy

Choosing Therapy

Verywell Mind

UCLA Med School

MedicalNewsToday

Healthline



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.