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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 09/29/2026
Availability last updated 09/29/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·9 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I currently only have space for in person client on Tuesday at my office located in San Francisco's Inner Sunset, I'm am full for telehealth. My approach to therapy is to help each client or couple adapt and grow from life's circumstances. I help my clients thrive within their community and experi...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.33
·6 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Greetings! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in California. I have 10 years of experience working as a school counselor. This work includes working with children and teens on anxiety and familial stress. Also, I have been practicing clinical therapy for 5 years. In this realm of wor...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.89
·53 reviews
She actually took the time to listen to me and allow me to express the issues I'm dealing with and I enjoyed talking to her.Click to read more
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi there, I am Dr. Ola. Do you feel pulled, stressed, and hopeless, unable to find balance and healthy skills? Are you struggling to maintain your relationships, work, and mental health? Is it hard to show yourself compassion? I help diverse individuals manage life stressors and avoid burnout....Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist
5.00
·2 reviews
Hands down one of the best therapists I’ve ever worked with. From the very first session, I felt seen and understood. She ask thoughtful questions that actually challenge me (in a good way) and create a safe space where I can be honest without feeling judged. Every session leaves me with a new persp...Click to read more
17 mi · 8929 S Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hello. My name Is Karin (pronounced Kah-reen) Brewster and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Los Angeles, CA, working with adults and children since 2012. My area of practice focuses on the therapeutic relationship, ensuring the client's comfort in sharing some of their most difficult ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Oct 1
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am a mom, bonus mom, wife who has been blessed to work in my passion as a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. With over a decade of experience as a dedicated therapist, passionate about providing access to quality mental health care. I specialize in working with diverse individuals and family dy...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.88
·8 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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If you are feeling stuck and unable to make changes in your life, you're not alone. Whether it’s in your professional life, your personal life, or both, feeling unsuccessful at navigating life can affect your mood, outlook, and overall health. Repeated frustration and disappointment may lead to depr...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Oct 1
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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As a therapist, I use a trauma-informed, client-centered approach grounded in compassion and respect. I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences, and I strive to create a safe, supportive space where they feel heard and understood. My goal is to positively impact the...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Oct 1
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 11 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hello, and congratulations on taking the first step into your therapeutic journey! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in California. I received my Masters from Azusa Pacific University and my Bachelor's degree from CSU Channel Islands. I have over 14 years of experience work...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Oct 1
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·12 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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First, let’s take a moment to say “good for you” for making the choice to take your therapy journey. Therapy has many faces and is different for every person, so it’s important to figure out what therapy means for you. Whether you’re experiencing challenges with depression and anxiety, wanting to wo...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.89
·9 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I believe that everyone should have a safe and healing place to work through life's challenges and create positive change in their lives. As a licensed LMFT therapist with a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from Lewis & Clark College, I support clients in their self-discovery process through ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.80
·5 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am licensed marriage and family therapist (MFT) originally from the central coast of California. I now live in the Greater Sacramento California Area and have experience in working with adolescents/teens and adults who struggle with various issues including depression or the intricacies of being p...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Oct 1
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.90
·10 reviews
Thilini was a refreshing addition to my what I have been experiencing. She was attentive and very solution oriented with gentle guidance through my challenges with small steps. - May 7, 2024 by Iris A.Click to read more
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Artist based in Southern California. I earned my Master’s in Art Therapy from Loyola Marymount University and have been a practicing therapist for 5 years. I am interested in working with clients who are open to art making through telehealth to help ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.00
·1 review
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2006. I hold a Doctor of Public Health degree from the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, and a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from National University.Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Welcome to my professional profile. My name is Paul Quezada, and I am a bilingual (Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Southern California. Thank you for taking the time to consider me as a potential ally on your journey towards improved mental health and overall well-being. ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Oct 1
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, my name is Hilary Matthews, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and substance abuse counselor in Nevada, California, Utah, and Oregon. I hold a Master�s in Psychology from Phillips Graduate University. I use different modalities in therapy, most often employing Cognitive Behavio...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Karin! I am a bilingual Latina providing therapy for adults in individual and couples counseling. I use client-centered, strengths-based care with CBT, DBT, and narrative therapy to support anxiety, depression, life transitions, and personal growth. My focus I work with adults and cou...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Oct 6
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I have worked in the industry for over 20 years and I firmly believe in the potential of recovery for every single person given the right opportunities and support. I believe that everyone has the potential to realize their true identity and pursue their hopes and aspirations as they so desire.Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Anthony! My name is Anthony Mihalo, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, working with clients statewide through telehealth. I hold a Master's in Social Work from the University of Southern California. I work with adults and specialize in...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Oct 6
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there! My name is Whitney Paine, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Southern California and specialize in treating adolescents and adults via telehealth. I use a combination of Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavi...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Oct 6
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My educational background includes earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master's in Clinical Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands, as well as a Master's in Addictions. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC #16395) and a certified addictions counselor. My areas ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Oct 6
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Cassandra! Cassandra Allen � LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST LMFT116466; specializing in helping individuals and families navigate the complexities of relationships and life's challenges. With 15 years of experience in the field, I am passionate about guiding my clients toward ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Oct 6
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 22 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I have been seeing clients professionally since 2018 for multiple nonprofits in the Bay Area. I have been lucky enough to work with families from all different backgrounds and work through stressful situations that arise. Our goal through our work together will be to make you feel more confident and...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Sjoekje F. Sasbone, LCSW. I have a process-oriented approach. My clients and I share a space to help them accomplish their goals as a team. My approach My therapeutic orientation is mainly Psychodynamic and Solution Focus. My focus I assist adults with mood and psychotic disorders, ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a California-licensed clinician with 9 years of experience working with individuals, couples, families, and children. My approach is supportive, collaborative, and culturally responsive. I believe in empowering clients to build on their strengths, overcome challenges, and achieve meaningful goa...Click to read more
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Thank you for considering me to be your Therapist. I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since March 2010, and I hold a Master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy from Loma Linda University. My practice focuses on helping individuals who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 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: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Michelle Charness-Adams. I hold an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of California, Los Angeles, a PsyD (Doctorate in Clinical Psychology), and a JD in law. I believe everyone deserves a chance to live their best life, and therapy ca...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Fabio! My name is Fabio Leon, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Temecula, California. I earned my Master's in Social Work from California State University Long Beach. I work with clients statewide via telehealth, specializing in adults and older adults dealing...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Oct 6
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 Robert! Robert (Bob) Phillips, LPCC, understands that beginning your therapy journey takes courage. He has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of this journey, as those who engage fully often emerge with a greater understanding of themselves and valuable tools to enhance the...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Oct 6
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 22 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
LCSW #134064 I bring an authentic, whole-person approach to therapy—supporting clients in exploring the connection between mind, body, and environment. My practice focuses on helping individuals navigate life transitions, heal from trauma, and build emotional resilience. I believe in creating a safe...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, my name is Pavly Abdelmalek, and I am a licensed psychotherapist (LMFT) with a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University. I enjoy using a variety of therapeutic approaches and tailor them according to your needs. My practice always begins with providing a comfortabl...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Oct 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 22 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Brandon! I am an LCSW and LICSW. I have been involved professionally in social work since 2005 and formally began providing clinical, private practice therapy starting in 2020. My focus Change, is one of the, if not the only constant in our lives. I will support clients who are both a...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.86
·7 reviews
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 48 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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My career in the helping professions started in 1997 at a residential program in San Francisco working with adults with substance use issues and co-occurring mental health disorders. This launched a long road of determination to attain a Bachelor's degree in Social Work in 2008 and then a Master's i...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Autumn! Hi! I'm Dr. Autumn Jefferson, a licensed Clinical Psychologist with a PsyD in Clinical Forensic Psychology from Alliant International University and a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. My therapeutic approach is customized with methods to address con...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
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: Thu, Oct 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Change is hard but possible! I am here to help you reach your goals and encourage a healthier, more motivated you. My name is Kemi Ayanfalu, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 10 years of experience. I hold a Master’s in Clinical Health Services Marriage and Fa...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Oct 6
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Robert! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#95754-CA) with a Master's in Counseling from California State University, East Bay. My goal is to provide strength-based support for all of the clients I work with. With over 10 years of experience, I've learned how important it...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Feeling overwhelmed by trauma, depression, or anxiety? I’m here to help. Are you or your child feeling trapped, weighed down by trauma, or overwhelmed by anxiety or depression? You don’t have to face it alone. I provide a supportive and understanding space to help you heal, regain balance, and move ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Like so many people, I sometimes fall into thinking that “Things will be better when…,” “If I only had…,” and “I wish I were more like….”. Although it is tempting and easy to do, the end result of thinking this way is consistent disappointment, critical self-talk, feelings of not being “enough,” and...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.93
·14 reviews
Dr. Silverstein is a wonderful person and psychologist. She makes me feel comfortable, heard, and respected above all else. As a queer person, that’s a rare find. ???? I really appreciate that she talks about her own personal experiences as well, so it feels more like a conversation than just dumpin...Click to read more
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
My name is Dr. Shannon Silverstein, and I am a Licensed Psychologist originally from Southern California, providing therapy services to California clients statewide through telehealth. I earned my PsyD in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, a Master's in Marriage ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
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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.