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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 09/09/2026
Availability last updated 09/09/2026
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 Jaime! I am a California-based psychotherapist who works with adults seeking to heal from trauma, attachment wounds, and relationship challenges. I believe that therapy is most effective when it provides a safe, collaborative space to understand how past experiences continue to shape p...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Sep 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi! Hola! My name is Theresa Nayelie, and I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in San Diego, CA, practicing statewide via telehealth. I earned my Master’s in Counseling from San Diego State University. Before licensure, I worked as an Associate with incarcerated you...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Sep 15
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, Sep 15
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·6 reviews
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hello! I went into Clinical Social Work after a brief career in marketing and have been licensed and practicing in this field for the past 20 years. I earned my Master's in Social Work from the University of Kansas and was trained in the Strengths-Based model of social work. I consider my therapeuti...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Sep 14
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 Martha! Seeking therapy is a meaningful first step, and I'm glad you're here. I specialize in working with young adults who are navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am passionate about destigmatizing mental health and creating a safe and supportive space wher...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Sep 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, I'm John Rego, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I've been practicing for twenty years in a variety of settings including private practice, managed care, and healthcare. I earned my master's degree from Fuller Theological Seminary Student Service Center and my bachelor's degree from San...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Sep 15
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 Shobha! My name is Shobha George, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I hold a Master's in Social Work from Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam. I work with adolescents and specialize in depression, anxie...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Sep 14
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 Keav! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, working with adults statewide through telehealth. I earned my Master's in Social Work from the University of California, Los Angeles. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma, using Cognitive ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Sep 14
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 Steven! Welcome. Starting therapy is a meaningful step, and I commend you for considering this journey. I'm here to support you in a way that feels genuine and tailored to your needs. I specialize in working with individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, as...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Sep 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Counselor based in California with a Master's in Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies. I relate to clients with a mix of compassionate listening and down-to-earth dialogue. My approach to therapy is eclectic, primarily what's cal...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hello! My name is Lexi Nicodemus, LMFT, and I am so excited to have you here. I understand how vulnerable asking for help and coming to therapy can be, and I am thankful you have trusted me to go alongside your journey. My approach I set clear goals for myself and my clients and treat every ses...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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My name is Yvette Angelina Arroyo, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Los Angeles, California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I hold a Master's in Forensic Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I work with young adults and adu...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I have been working in community mental health for 14 years, focusing my clinical lens on treating trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, and Borderline Personality Disorder using DBT, ACT, and Harm Reduction. My goal as your therapist is to support you in developing an authentic relationship w...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Ileana! I am Ileana Gallegos, a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master's in Social Work from the University of Southern California. I am passionate about facilitating the healing process by collaborating with you to assist in reaching your goals. I strongly believe i...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Ms. Salma Soliman is a skilled and compassionate psychotherapist who offers virtual counseling through Brave You Therapy. Ms. Soliman completed her master's degree in social work at the University of Southern California and is a member of the National Association of Social Workers. She specializes ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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My name is Ani and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Bachelor's degree from UCLA in 2007 and obtained my Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University in 2010. I have experience providing individual and family therapy, case management and crisis intervention. I...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Manhattan Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 21 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Rina Varughese is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2013. She holds a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Phoenix. Rina has experience with pain management, anxiety, depression, trauma, and the LGBTQ population, and she works fro...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Sep 22
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 11 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I'm a therapist, musician, and dog caregiver born and raised in the Bay Area and now living in San Jose, CA. I support creative, neurodivergent, and sensitive people improve their relationships with themselves. I help you explore how past experiences, important relationships, and culture have made y...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I earned my Master's in Mental Health Counseling from the University of San Francisco and have been practicing for 10 years. I help women navigate the challenges of modern society and choose the life they want to pursue.Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.92
·13 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Do you feel like nothing you do is ever right or that you have to put yourself last to make sure everyone else in your life is taken care of? Maybe you’ve been struggling with self-criticism or setting appropriate boundaries, either with yourself or with others. Life is hard enough without us gettin...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.83
·6 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California with over 20 years of experience providing bilingual, culturally responsive psychotherapy in diverse settings, including community-based therapy, counseling centers, and hospital and medical facilities. In my practice, I create a com...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·10 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I have extensive training in cognitive-behavioral therapy, applied behavioral analysis, neuropsychology, and psychoanalysis. My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from one or a combination of these methodologies based on what will be most beneficial for each individual. Additionally, human...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.93
·15 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts UnitedHealthcare + 8 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
You are more than what happened to you. Your thoughts, emotions, and past experiences do not define your worth or your future. Healing is possible-and you deserve a life that feels safe, grounded, and truly your own. I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) serving individual...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Marissa is a Bilingual Spanish speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 7 years of experience working with young adults and adolescents in outpatient clinic and in a crisis setting providing emergency mental health support. Marissa offers a warm, safe and compassionate space where...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
My name is Megan Meredith and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California. I received my Masters in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and have been practicing for 3 years. I provide therapy via a person-centered approach with tailored interventions t...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Seeking therapy can be a daunting experience, but I am glad you are here. I am a strength-based therapist, and I am here to listen and help you navigate your obstacles to reach your desired goals. I specialize in mood disorders and anxiety and use a variety of modalities to fit your specific needs.I...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I love walking alongside people at every stage of life, from young adolescents figuring out big emotions for the first time, to parents working toward reunification with their children, to older adults facing the realities of long-term illness. Wherever you're starting from, I want you to feel like ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.50
·2 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
We are all faced with challenges. These challenges can create limitations that interfere with gaining a sense of self, forming healthy relationships, and pursuing our goals. I believe we should not allow these obstacles to dictate how we respond to the environment around us. Learning healthy coping ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello! My name is Sandra Randall, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving clients in California and in Florida. With a Master of Social Work from San Jose State University and nine years of experience, I am dedicated to guiding individuals as they navigate life's challenges and transition...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·10 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello! My name is Maria M. Razo-Vega, and I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I hold a Master's in Counseling from the University of Phoenix. My goal is to provide individuals with a supportive environment that encourages growth and healing. I am passionate abou...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Greetings, I'm African American, California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy (144529). I possess a Master’s degree in Clinical Counsel from Point Loma Nazarene University and a Master’s degree in Public Health with a Specialization in Health Care Administration from National University. Addition...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 11 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Welcome! I'm Patricia Soto, a compassionate Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist committed to guiding individuals towards mental well-being and empowerment though all seasons in life. With a focus on addressing depression, self-esteem, anxiety, grief, life transitions, work-related stress, and chall...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience providing psychotherapy to adolescents and adults across a range of emotional and behavioral concerns. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is supportive, respectful, and non-judgmental, where clients feel safe to explore the...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.50
·2 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Welcome! My name is Karin and I’m here to help you discover the healing that your mind and body are capable of. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and a Holistic Health Coach from Santa Monica, Ca. I am a certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider (CMHIMP). Across my profession...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.75
·20 reviews
I am very excited about working with Brent. I feel he was very thorough and open with me; connection is key with therapy. Brent is a great listener and has a talent for helping others. - Jun 15, 2023 by Vincent M.Click to read more
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Hello, my name is Brent, and I am a therapist with over a decade of experience specializing in men's health, trauma, and PTSD. I hold a Master's in Social Work from the University of Texas, Arlington, and a Bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida. I work with individuals aged 18-64, i...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Sep 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello Im a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with a traumainformed, somatic & relational approach to therapy. I work with thoughtful adults who want to understand themselves more deeply, reconnect with their bodies, and create more ease and clarity in their relationships. My style...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts UnitedHealthcare + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Welcome! I am Reina Michelle, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in working with adults 18- 49 years old who are struggling with life transition problems. People with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Panic disorder, ADHD, Postpartum Depression, and other mood-related prob...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Los Angeles, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) for over 20 years having worked in a variety of clinical settings including community mental health, schools, substance abuse, and private practice in both CA and TX. I work with adults to (re)gain a healthy sense of self, improve emotional an...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Many people come to therapy feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin. I offer a warm, supportive space where you can show up as you are. Together, we'll explore challenges, build on your strengths, and create meaningful, lasting change.Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Sep 16
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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.

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