Therapists in Stockton, CA

I'm really glad you're here. I currently have limited space for new clients, so it's important that we’re a good fit. I know relationship issues can be exhausting. This space is here to support you. My goal is to help you regain a sense of control and better understand what you're going through. When we understand ourselves more deeply, we empower real change. Growth becomes possible—and sustainable. Together, we’ll work toward that change, because both knowledge and growth are key to becoming the best version of yourself.
I'm really glad you're here. I currently have limited space for new clients, so it's important that we’re a good fit. I know relationship issues can be exhausting. This space is here to support you. My goal is to help you regain a sense of control and better understand what you're going through. When we understand ourselves more deeply, we empower real change. Growth becomes possible—and sustainable. Together, we’ll work toward that change, because both knowledge and growth are key to becoming the best version of yourself.

Often in life we are faced with challenges, and no matter how small or how large, we feel absolutely stuck. Trapped in a place where you either can't seem to find the right solution or being able to see the change you need to make but can't quite get there. I believe that we all have the inner strength to overcome anything and I am here to be your helping hand. My job is to provide you a safe and comfortable environment in the process of uncovering your internal strengths and face these challenges head on.
Often in life we are faced with challenges, and no matter how small or how large, we feel absolutely stuck. Trapped in a place where you either can't seem to find the right solution or being able to see the change you need to make but can't quite get there. I believe that we all have the inner strength to overcome anything and I am here to be your helping hand. My job is to provide you a safe and comfortable environment in the process of uncovering your internal strengths and face these challenges head on.

As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, I offer a compassionate, inclusive space where individuals, couples, and families from all backgrounds can feel seen, heard, and supported. My work centers on guiding clients through meaningful change, whether it’s improving relationships, healing from past experiences, or navigating life transitions. I believe therapy is a powerful tool for self-discovery and personal growth, and I’m committed to walking alongside my clients as they explore their stories, uncover inner strengths, and create more authentic, connected lives.
As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, I offer a compassionate, inclusive space where individuals, couples, and families from all backgrounds can feel seen, heard, and supported. My work centers on guiding clients through meaningful change, whether it’s improving relationships, healing from past experiences, or navigating life transitions. I believe therapy is a powerful tool for self-discovery and personal growth, and I’m committed to walking alongside my clients as they explore their stories, uncover inner strengths, and create more authentic, connected lives.
United Counseling Center provides a supportive non-judgmental environment where individuals, couples, families, and children can openly express themselves, build relationships, and learn new skills to cope with life experiences. Our mission is to support and unite people of all cultures.
United Counseling Center provides a supportive non-judgmental environment where individuals, couples, families, and children can openly express themselves, build relationships, and learn new skills to cope with life experiences. Our mission is to support and unite people of all cultures.

In working together, I can help alleviate the struggles brought on by life. This can include grief, anxiety, depression, relationship/marital problems, Post-Partum Depression, or life transitions such as being new parents, loss of a loved one, and much more. I also have experience working with the LGBTQ+ community.
In working together, I can help alleviate the struggles brought on by life. This can include grief, anxiety, depression, relationship/marital problems, Post-Partum Depression, or life transitions such as being new parents, loss of a loved one, and much more. I also have experience working with the LGBTQ+ community.

La Paz Counseling & Therapy Services
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, PPS
Stockton, CA 95209
Not knowing how to process our emotions can lead us to deal with situations inadequately or it can bring on stress. We all want to do the best that we can, but at times, it can feel like we are not meeting those expectations. Sometimes we just need someone to assist or guide us in understanding our personal, social/emotional, educational or career problems, which will then lead us to better mental health. I use various psychotherapeutic techniques and counseling interventions to assist clients in acquiring coping skills, healthy mechanism, and appropriate tools to assist them in improving their mental health.
Not knowing how to process our emotions can lead us to deal with situations inadequately or it can bring on stress. We all want to do the best that we can, but at times, it can feel like we are not meeting those expectations. Sometimes we just need someone to assist or guide us in understanding our personal, social/emotional, educational or career problems, which will then lead us to better mental health. I use various psychotherapeutic techniques and counseling interventions to assist clients in acquiring coping skills, healthy mechanism, and appropriate tools to assist them in improving their mental health.

Hello! My mission is to help families heal, grow, and become whole. Often, this journey begins with just one person taking the first step—will that be you? I am here to work with individuals and families, starting wherever you feel ready.
Hello! My mission is to help families heal, grow, and become whole. Often, this journey begins with just one person taking the first step—will that be you? I am here to work with individuals and families, starting wherever you feel ready.

I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.

Do you ever feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward? Life’s challenges—whether anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, or major transitions—can leave you feeling lost. But you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Therapy offers a space to process your emotions, gain clarity, and rediscover your inner strength. Together, we’ll create a supportive space where you can heal, grow, and build a life that aligns with your values.
Do you ever feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward? Life’s challenges—whether anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, or major transitions—can leave you feeling lost. But you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Therapy offers a space to process your emotions, gain clarity, and rediscover your inner strength. Together, we’ll create a supportive space where you can heal, grow, and build a life that aligns with your values.

Hello, I’m Lucia Acosta, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, passionate about helping adolescents and adults navigate the challenges of anxiety, stress, and life’s complexities. I am bicultural, bilingual in Spanish, and provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your emotions, share your experiences, and work toward meaningful change. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck, I’m here to help you find clarity and confidence as we navigate your healing journey together.
Hello, I’m Lucia Acosta, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, passionate about helping adolescents and adults navigate the challenges of anxiety, stress, and life’s complexities. I am bicultural, bilingual in Spanish, and provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your emotions, share your experiences, and work toward meaningful change. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck, I’m here to help you find clarity and confidence as we navigate your healing journey together.

As a therapist/coach I seek to treat the whole person and begin where they are at. Through depth listening, positive regard and an open being, I partner with the you and use approaches from various modalities (cognitive, solution focused, client-centered, mindfulness, somatic, humanistic and positive psychology) to create a path to help you discover your abilities, strengths and most of all resilience to address the issues which are facing you.
As a therapist/coach I seek to treat the whole person and begin where they are at. Through depth listening, positive regard and an open being, I partner with the you and use approaches from various modalities (cognitive, solution focused, client-centered, mindfulness, somatic, humanistic and positive psychology) to create a path to help you discover your abilities, strengths and most of all resilience to address the issues which are facing you.

Sonya Chavez Serna
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Stockton, CA 95203
Not accepting new clients
When we experience life challenges, there may be those times when we feel stuck, alone & don't know how to cope with it! It's understandable that when making the decision to seek professional help for our personal issues it may feel scary or like unfamiliar territory, but it can also be effective when an individual is open and ready to take that first step towards self-care! My name is Sonya C. Serna and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that provides individual, couples and family therapy.
When we experience life challenges, there may be those times when we feel stuck, alone & don't know how to cope with it! It's understandable that when making the decision to seek professional help for our personal issues it may feel scary or like unfamiliar territory, but it can also be effective when an individual is open and ready to take that first step towards self-care! My name is Sonya C. Serna and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that provides individual, couples and family therapy.

Mind over matter, results over chatter. You are deserving of better days, start your journey on Shirmae Way. Hi! My name is Brittany Mitchell and I am so proud of you for taking this first step to improve your overall wellness. Here at Shirmae Way LCSW we are dedicated to supporting those who are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms. We work with ages 5-25 years old persons looking for short-term therapy. Through compassion, kindness, and love, we strive to support you through your journey to become the best version of yourself! Now offering clinical supervision.
Mind over matter, results over chatter. You are deserving of better days, start your journey on Shirmae Way. Hi! My name is Brittany Mitchell and I am so proud of you for taking this first step to improve your overall wellness. Here at Shirmae Way LCSW we are dedicated to supporting those who are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms. We work with ages 5-25 years old persons looking for short-term therapy. Through compassion, kindness, and love, we strive to support you through your journey to become the best version of yourself! Now offering clinical supervision.

Everyone needs a safe and nonjudgmental place where they feel comfortable sharing their unique life story. Many times we stay in negative situations, because of our past, or we are afraid of taking a risk into the unknown. This is due to creating thoughts that prevent us from living the life we want. Being able to identify our thoughts can lead us to make better choices, feeling more empower leading to self-esteem development and improvement. I can be a tool to help you identify your thoughts as well as your emotions in order to make positive life decisions in a safe and confidential environment.
Everyone needs a safe and nonjudgmental place where they feel comfortable sharing their unique life story. Many times we stay in negative situations, because of our past, or we are afraid of taking a risk into the unknown. This is due to creating thoughts that prevent us from living the life we want. Being able to identify our thoughts can lead us to make better choices, feeling more empower leading to self-esteem development and improvement. I can be a tool to help you identify your thoughts as well as your emotions in order to make positive life decisions in a safe and confidential environment.

Dr. Heather Drey earned a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a specialty in Behavioral Medicine, and two master’s degrees in mental health - one in Clinical Psychology, and the other in Marriage and Family Therapy. Before starting private practice in telehealth, Heather spent almost two decades counseling children, couples, families, and adults (civilians and Veterans). Now, Heather assists adult individual clients of any age with relationships, mental and chronic health challenges, anxiety, and stress in work family balance to achieve overall wellness.
Dr. Heather Drey earned a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a specialty in Behavioral Medicine, and two master’s degrees in mental health - one in Clinical Psychology, and the other in Marriage and Family Therapy. Before starting private practice in telehealth, Heather spent almost two decades counseling children, couples, families, and adults (civilians and Veterans). Now, Heather assists adult individual clients of any age with relationships, mental and chronic health challenges, anxiety, and stress in work family balance to achieve overall wellness.

Each of us walks our own path in life and that experience is unique even in its similarities. In this walk of life, who you are and what you experience is a creation of choices: how you respond to events, the people you spend time with, and the space you find yourself in at the moment. Within each one of us is the ability to create a new space that brings joy and life satisfaction. My goal is to help you create the life you want to live by providing you with the tools and techniques you can customize to fit where you are now and be able to use again as your life changes.
Each of us walks our own path in life and that experience is unique even in its similarities. In this walk of life, who you are and what you experience is a creation of choices: how you respond to events, the people you spend time with, and the space you find yourself in at the moment. Within each one of us is the ability to create a new space that brings joy and life satisfaction. My goal is to help you create the life you want to live by providing you with the tools and techniques you can customize to fit where you are now and be able to use again as your life changes.

As a therapist, I like to emphasize with my clients a simple thought which is "Everything I've gone through I have gotten through" This approach allows the client to realize their own personal resilience. Leading the client to understand this uncertainty I am feeling right now is okay; I am capable of getting through anything. My greatest strength is offering clients a safe place to fall with no judgement. Offering guidance and hope while allowing them to create their own path as they building a life worth living.
As a therapist, I like to emphasize with my clients a simple thought which is "Everything I've gone through I have gotten through" This approach allows the client to realize their own personal resilience. Leading the client to understand this uncertainty I am feeling right now is okay; I am capable of getting through anything. My greatest strength is offering clients a safe place to fall with no judgement. Offering guidance and hope while allowing them to create their own path as they building a life worth living.

Are you currently searching for a sense of meaning and purpose in your life? Do you find yourself in an existential/spiritual emergency? Are you exploring your personal identity, expression, or sexuality? I help people of all ages increase self-awareness and decrease symptomology by bringing unconscious material into conscious awareness. Mental health concerns eventually arise because deep in our mind/body/soul we yearn for authenticity/individuation. Together we can explore which aspects of ourselves that no longer serve us to let go, in order to make space for something new to enter.
Are you currently searching for a sense of meaning and purpose in your life? Do you find yourself in an existential/spiritual emergency? Are you exploring your personal identity, expression, or sexuality? I help people of all ages increase self-awareness and decrease symptomology by bringing unconscious material into conscious awareness. Mental health concerns eventually arise because deep in our mind/body/soul we yearn for authenticity/individuation. Together we can explore which aspects of ourselves that no longer serve us to let go, in order to make space for something new to enter.

Are you struggling with unresolved trauma that has impacted your mental health? My goal as a therapist is to foster an empathetic environment that is supportive and safe for individuals to address their mental health concerns, improve their well-being, and to achieve their personal goals so that they may go on to live more fulfilling lives. My areas of expertise include working with individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, aging, family conflict, self-esteem, and interpersonal relationship issues.
Are you struggling with unresolved trauma that has impacted your mental health? My goal as a therapist is to foster an empathetic environment that is supportive and safe for individuals to address their mental health concerns, improve their well-being, and to achieve their personal goals so that they may go on to live more fulfilling lives. My areas of expertise include working with individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, aging, family conflict, self-esteem, and interpersonal relationship issues.

Vanessa Melchor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Do you find yourself repeating family patterns that don’t serve you? This can be due to childhood trauma. Childhood trauma can leave you with the sense that there's something wrong with you; that you are defective/different/unlovable. These feelings are likely projections that you received from your caregivers. If this resonates with you and you want to change those patterns, then I will support you to explore the connection between your past experiences–often from childhood–and your current mindset. I work with Women’s Mental Health Concerns such as Postpartum depression, menopause, Grief, Anxiety, Depression, and job stress.
Do you find yourself repeating family patterns that don’t serve you? This can be due to childhood trauma. Childhood trauma can leave you with the sense that there's something wrong with you; that you are defective/different/unlovable. These feelings are likely projections that you received from your caregivers. If this resonates with you and you want to change those patterns, then I will support you to explore the connection between your past experiences–often from childhood–and your current mindset. I work with Women’s Mental Health Concerns such as Postpartum depression, menopause, Grief, Anxiety, Depression, and job stress.
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Number of Therapists in Stockton, CA
200+
Average cost per session
$140
Therapists in Stockton, CA who prioritize treating:
89% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
73% | Coping Skills |
69% | Self Esteem |
67% | Stress |
64% | Relationship Issues |
63% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
84% | Aetna |
73% | Cigna and Evernorth |
72% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Stockton, CA see their clients
68% | Online Only | |
32% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Stockton?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.