San Francisco is a city that is known for its progressive values. A hub for LGBT rights, it was one of the first places to prove that just because someone is different than you, it doesn’t mean they are a bad person. If you feel like no one likes you because you’re different, it may be worth it to speak to a counselor. 

A counselor based in San Francisco is accepting towards all walks of life. No matter your age, race, sex, or sexual orientation, they will be there to help you find the help you need. Speak a San Francisco-based counselor and see how they can help. 

This is Sonia Blue's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): M.A.,L.M.F.T.,
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Relationship issues, Grief, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 30

Change is possible and we DO get better! I have experienced this personally and have witnessed it again and again in my 30 years as a psychotherapist. I have been privileged to accompany countless individuals, couples and families on their journey to health and wholeness. Healing the past, relating to others with greater intimacy and authenticity, communicating more effectively and creating meaning as we grow and change are just some of the possibilities positive, compassionate and effective therapy can offer. If your problems could be solved by good advice alone...

This is Sonia Medina Pranger's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW, PPSC
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Parenting issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 20

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and currently a Ph.D. candidate in Counseling and Psychological Services, with a specialization in Marriage and Family Ministry. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work as well as a Master’s in Social Work and hold a Pupil Personnel Services Credential. I have over twenty years of experience working within schools, child welfare systems and organizations, as well as private practice to support individuals and families. I am also a social work educator for ten years, teaching courses to emerging professionals at the college l...

This is Thomas Cagle's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): MS,LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Grief, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 25

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in the State of California. I have over 24 years of experience working with clients with a varying range of issues including schizophrenia, bi-polar disorder, depression, substance abuse, anxiety, bereavement/grief, and relationship issues. I've also helped many individuals who have experienced emotional, physical and sexual abuse, as well as those who are experiencing divorce and family custody issues. My style of counseling is to be empathic, understanding. and genuine. Respect and compassion are also core t...

This is Charlene Edwards's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Relationship issues, Anger management, Self esteem, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 10

Becoming your best self can be complicated. Defining "best" is the first step. The amazement of it all is that each and everyone gets to decide and design what best means to them. I accept the challenge and responsibility of creating a safe space for exploration and actualization as an artistic imperative. Because, one sized therapeutic experiences do not fit all. As humans continue to human by relating and misrelating, creativity must be employed. As a Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years experience integrating psychotherapy, spirituality and sel...

This is Claire Nana's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Addictions, Trauma and abuse, Anger management, Self esteem, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 15

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with 15 years experience working as a psychotherapist and life coach. I work with a variety of concerns including trauma, addiction, body image and weight loss issues, relationship issues, and life purpose. I have also worked with many people recovering from mass traumas, such as school shootings. I have presented at International conferences and written 25 continuing education courses for psychotherapists. My goal is always to identify ways the practice of psychotherapy can be improved, and find new and innovative ...

This is Souphaphone "Sandy"  Hagan's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 5

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Katherine Holley's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW,CAADC, SATS
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 13

Hello! My name is Katherine Holley. I am a Licensed Psychotherapist with over 14 years of experience. I began my career in counseling in 2009 as a therapist at a not for profit agency assisting people to make difficult transitions often facing depression, anxiety, job loss and trauma. My positions that followed were that of an Outpatient Therapist, Intensive Outpatient Group Facilitator, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy instructor and Dialectical Behavior Therapist. As you can see, I have been honored to help people in many different life situations. I believe that...

This is Janice Miles's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Intimacy-related issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 14

Ms. Janice R. Miles is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, her Masters of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Hofstra University, and her Masters of Education in Human Sexuality from Widener University. In addition, she is a Certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, a Certified Family Trauma Professional, and a member of AAMFT and AASECT. Janice has worked in various settings, including in-home, inpatient, and outpatient locations, with clien...

This is Rahul Ragu's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 6

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Paul Knight's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 25

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, bipolar disorder, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Makenzie Gilliam's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Eating disorders, Depression
Years of Experience: 5

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & eating disorders. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Anne Holding's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 5

I am a warm and caring but direct Therapist who believes in human potential. I am licensed in California and previously worked for County Behavioral Health with children, teens and adults. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Applied Behavior Analysis. I first worked in the Corporate world then spent years working in schools and as a Special Education teacher. In addition, I co-founded and ran a non-profit Animal Assisted Therapy and Outdoor Education program in the Bay Area. My current areas of focus are in helping client...

This is Tandy Pham's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW,PPSC
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 4

Hi there, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in young adults struggling with anxiety, depression as well as relationship issues. We all experience challenging times at one point or another but we don't have to do it alone. Therapy provides an unbiased perspective and encourages introspection using evidence-based practices. My approach is person-centered and family systems oriented. I believe that you are the expert of yourself and my role is to provide support, whether you're looking to heal from trauma or find solutions to problems. I utilize CB...

This is Dr. Frank Willey's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Self esteem, Coaching
Years of Experience: 32

I am licensed in California with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Candace Delis's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LPC
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Years of Experience: 6

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts in Community Counseling from Lakeland University and a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. I work to create a safe, comfortable and accepting environment for my clients. I have previously worked in crisis intervention as well as group therapy settings and like to focus on providing positive support for my clients. I've been told I'm not the "typical" therapist type - I have tattoos and a pretty progressive viewpoint, and I also work really hard to be relat...

This is Dr. Jack Cusator's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Years of Experience: 27

I am licensed in California with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Andrea Bosowski's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Trauma and abuse, Grief
Years of Experience: 12

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse & coping with grief and loss. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Jaril Faith Gallup's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder
Years of Experience: 26

I have worked with people in my private practice for 15 years and a community mental health center for over 10 years. I have a teaching style and use lots of diagrams and explanations to help you understand your mental health. People with Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD and OCD have been helped by my approach. I have worked with people of all ages and excel with people individually. My teaching style is different than most therapists. I fully expect you to improve, learn and grow. I use evidence-based approaches, like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), ...

This is Xander Cooper's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Depression
Years of Experience: 4

I am currently licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, substance use/addictions, family issues, relationship distress, self esteem, phase of life issues & depression. My past work experiences include private practice, working at a substance use detoxification facility, and for a mobile crisis response team. I am here to help in any way that I can, and take a solution focused approach with my clients. This includes giving homework, building coping skills that my clients can utilize to h...

This is Mariel Diaz's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - San Francisco, California (San Francisco, CA)
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Career difficulties, Coaching
Years of Experience: 18

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & career difficulties. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Having A Hard Time Selecting A Mental Health Professional In San Francisco?

Finding the right therapist can feel intimidating. However, there are a few methods you can try to narrow your search for a counselor in the San Francisco area if you find it challenging to find therapists accepting new clients.

First, research what type of therapy you'd like to pursue before finding a therapist or psychologist. You might be interested in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, marriage and family therapy, or couples therapy. Each therapy can offer various benefits. If you're still unsure, consider asking your prospective therapists which methods they practice.

When you're ready to search, search for 'therapist near me in San Francisco and scroll through the options. Next, consider your goals for the gender of your therapist, the type of therapy they're most experienced with, and their specialty. Finally, choose a therapist located near you in the city of San Francisco or elsewhere in San Francisco or the state of California.

Mental health professionals working through private practice or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships and communication skills, working through life's obstacles, or changing negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a listening ear and validation. Verified San Francisco therapists can provide licensed marriage and compassionate counseling, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

What Is The Cost Difference Between Conventional Therapy And BetterHelp? 

Forbes reports that the average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in San Francisco due to a higher cost of living.

Some therapists in the state of California may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp therapists serving the city of San Francisco and elsewhere throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $60 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks).


Did You Know BetterHelp Therapists Are Not Limited To In-Person Visits?

Online therapists, including the US-based therapists above, can work with people like you in or around San Francisco to offer creative forms of communication and treatment. You do not have to commute to a therapist's office to meet with one of these counselors.

Through BetterHelp, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, receive worksheets, and sign up for mental health webinars. Additionally, the BetterHelp app offers a journaling feature.

Suppose you're struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists specializing in behavioral health and relationships. You can also try a provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. Look through the available therapists above and consider which might work for you.

San Jose has many professionals who provide client-centered individual counseling in person and through online therapy. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with therapists all over the US. Many individuals gain further insight into their lives through internet-based counseling. In San Francisco, therapy can be easily accessible and a click away.


How To Know If Therapy Is Right For You?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but they may struggle to provide objective guidance as a therapist can. Therapists are also professionals trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A therapist may support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health or life concerns. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another benefit of therapy is having a safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A San Jose therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With almost one million people in San Francisco, CA, finding a therapist can be costly, and therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of therapists above and others through BetterHelp, you may be able to find a therapist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching for a nearby therapist close to 94118 or the surrounding zip codes, consider other available therapists through the BetterHelp therapist page.

Stay Up To Date With The Leading Online Therapy Platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and FacebookFor mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time to learn more about BetterHelp therapists and counselors to understand the services available to you clearly. If you have any questions, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online counseling, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched with a counselor within 24 to 48 hours.

Emergency Situations

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

·      National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

·      National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

·      Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

·      Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.

·      Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386 

·      SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357

·      National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)

·      Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature

·      National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293) 

·      Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19

·      Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673

Zip Codes Served By BetterHelp Therapists

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in San Francisco:

94102, 94103, 94104, 94105, 94107, 94108, 94109, 94110, 94111, 94112, 94114, 94115, 94116, 94117, 94118, 94119, 94120, 94121, 94122, 94123, 94124, 94125, 94126, 94127, 94129, 94130, 94131, 94132, 94133, 94134, 94137, 94139, 94140, 94141, 94142, 94143, 94144, 94145, 94146, 94147, 94151, 94158, 94159, 94160, 94161, 94163, 94164, 94172, 94177, 94188

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy and BetterHelp can be found below:

How Do I See A Therapist For The First Time? 

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading about the counseling process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your therapist. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and why you're attending therapy.

Should I Attend Therapy If I Feel Fine? 

If you don't feel the need to see a therapist, you don't have to. However, some people may avoid attending counseling due to preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although therapists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A therapist may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is Crying In Therapy A Breakthrough?

Crying can be a breakthrough for some individuals who struggle to express emotions. Others might find that they often cry during sessions. Crying can be normal and healthy, so whether you cry or not may be a personal aspect of sessions.

Are Therapists Worth It?

We may all be on different paths in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, and goals. A therapist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities. Unlike advice from a friend, family member, or non-professional, therapists are trained to meet you where you're at. Therapy can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy each year, showing it's a popular option and may be often effective.

Do Therapists Judge You? 

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to protect you and them from ethical concerns. Therapists are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. Their job is to support you and make you feel safe and respected. You might consider changing therapists if you don't feel safe or respected.