FAQs about counseling, coaching, psychotherapy, and finding therapy in San Luis Obispo, CA

Questions and answers about different types of mental health providers and services from your San Luis Obispo therapist

San Luis Obispo is a charming city, brimming with beauty and offering a plethora of outdoor activities that cater to college students, young families, and working professionals. Despite the city's charm and sunny disposition, residents here face life's challenges and hardships just like anyone else, making mental health services incredibly beneficial. However, navigating the process of finding the right mental health professional can be confusing. How does one determine the best fit?

Hi, I'm Andrea Bey, LMFT, your San Luis Obispo therapist. In this blog post I'll explain the difference between various types of mental health providers so that you can make the most informed decision about what mental health service might be right for you. 

Are counseling, psychotherapy, and therapy in San Luis Obispo the same thing? 

In general, yes! Counseling, psychotherapy, and therapy are frequently used to refer to the exact same service. However, there may be some subtle differences between the services. 

Therapy tends to be longer-term, more exploratory, and focuses on treating mental health disorders, such as PTSD and General Anxiety Disorder. For example, EMDR therapy is an evidence-based modality that is often used to treat complex PTSD, trauma, anxiety, etc., is often longer-term, and can have life-changing results. 

Psychotherapy is the general term for any therapy that treats a mental health condition.

Counseling is often shorter term and can focus on concrete goals such as getting through a life transition, including going away to college or a career change. People may also participate in other types of counseling that might not be with a mental health professional, such as career counseling, religious counseling, etc. 

What’s confusing is that the terms are often used interchangeably, even among mental health providers! Whether you choose therapy, psychotherapy, or counseling, it is important to determine whether the person providing the service is a licensed professional (such as an LMFT, LCSW, LPCC, LMHC, or psychologist).

Wait… what is the difference between an LMFT, an LCSW, an LPCC, and a psychologist? Which one should I choose?

LMFT = Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

I, Andrea Bey, am an LMFT. LMFTs generally work with interpersonal relationship dynamics within families, couples and individuals. I however work with women in individual therapy on issues related to past trauma, anxiety, shame, stress management, and ADHD.

LCSW = Licensed Clinical Social Worker 

LCSWs provide support for people through various challenges and can work in a diverse array of settings including clinics, hospitals, and even banks. They can provide services such as general counseling and mental health support, crisis intervention, and substance abuse support.

LPCC = Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor 

LPCCs focus on providing similar support services that LMFTs and LCSWs provide, but focus mainly on the needs of their clients as individuals, rather than working with families or couples. My work in private practice aligns most closely with that of an LPCC, even though I am an LMFT.

Psychologist 

Psychologists focus on supporting individuals as well but tend to conduct a lot of assessments and may specialize in conducting these assessments for certain disorders, such as for individuals with ADHD. Psychologists also have a doctoral degree such as a PhD or a PsyD. LMFTs, LCSWs, and LPCCs are all Masters level degrees.

All of the above professionals are highly trained in mental health and may all provide therapy and/or counseling. As explained above, some may have different areas of focus in their schooling and/or their professional experience. 

What is a coach? Is coaching what I need in San Luis Obispo?

Therapy, psychotherapy, and professional counseling focus on mental health conditions and emotional healing and can only be provided by licensed professionals, or professionals working towards licensure under the supervision of a licensed professional. 

Coaching is a service that often focuses on setting and achieving goals. This can often be a part of therapy. However, there is no regulatory board (as of now) for coaches in California, so ANYONE can call themselves a coach. Some coaches are highly skilled and trained therapists. Other coaches may not have any formal training in mental health at all. The bottom line is that therapists or professional counselors CAN provide coaching, but coaches CANNOT provide therapy. 

Choosing the right mental health provider for you in San Luis Obispo, CA

You deserve to have support from someone who you feel comfortable with and truly understands you, and has the training and experience to support you with reaching your goals and moving forward with your life. 

Ready to start your healing journey? Click here to contact Andrea Bey, LMFT, your trusted San Luis Obispo therapist for women specializing in EMDR therapy, online therapy, and anxiety. 

6 Myths About Counseling and Therapy in San Luis Obispo

In a previous blog post I shared Tips to Find a Great San Luis Obispo Therapist, Psychologist, or Counselor. So, you’ve identified a few counselors that seem nice, and you may have your first session scheduled… and yet you have doubts. Should you be going to therapy for your issue? Will therapy even help? Can you afford it? 

It makes sense that you have doubts. We live in a success-obsessed, outcomes-based culture that places great value on self-sufficiency and an individualistic mindset. While there is nothing wrong with striving for success, it’s important to find a balance. We are social beings and thrive with strong connections and support from others. The self-sufficient mindset can be dangerous when it discourages people from seeking support, which can increase isolation and intensify symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression. 

Hi, I’m Andrea Bey, LMFT, and San Luis Obispo therapist. Below I’ll identify 6 common myths and misconceptions about therapy and counseling and offer some alternative insights.

Myth #1: “I should be able to solve my problems on my own, or by talking to my family or friends.”

I wish it was this easy! Counselors spend years in school, and even more time outside of school learning how to best support people who are struggling with various life stressors, relationship struggles, and mental health disorders.

I believe that many issues can be solved on your own and/or by talking it through with loved ones, once you have the right tools. A big part of therapy is learning tools and techniques for solving problems on your own in the future.

Getting an outside, objective perspective from a therapist who is not emotionally tied to your family can be so valuable. 

Myth #2: “I’m weak if I need outside support to solve my problems."

It takes a lot of guts to acknowledge that you need help. It takes even more courageous to speak your truth, and seek the support, tools, and self-understanding you need to thrive.

Myth #3: “Therapy is too expensive for me.”

Therapy is a significant investment in your own wellbeing, as is health insurance, a gym membership, chiropractic care, and other self-care activities such as massage, nail and hair services. Some therapists contract directly with health insurance companies for individual therapy. Other therapists, such as myself, are out-of-network providers that can provide you with a superbill to send to your insurance company for possible partial reimbursement. There are also some community agencies and nonprofit organizations that offer free or reduced-fee services based on income. Group therapy is an alternative to individual therapy and is often much less expensive per session. 

What is the potential cost if you do not seek support? It may be your relationship with your significant other, your job, or continuing to suffer in silence with debilitating panic attacks. I believe that your mental health and wellbeing is a worthwhile investment.

Myth #4: “I will be viewed as crazy if I go to a therapist.”

How would you view your best friend if they told you that they are going to a therapist for support with a problem in their life? Most likely your first thought would not be, “You’re crazy!” Many of us are much kinder to others than we are to ourselves. 

Although some people do seek counseling for severe mental illness, people also seek therapy every day for common issues such as relationship struggles, feelings of sadness and grief after a loss, and for support with navigating life transitions, such a marriage, the birth of a child, career changes, etc. 

Myth #5: “I’ve tried therapy before and it doesn’t work for me.”

What may not work at one stage of life may be just what is needed at another stage. You may have tried therapy as a kid while living in an abusive home, or you may have gone to a few sessions in college when you were in a toxic relationship. Your life may be different now. You may now live in a safe and stable home environment, and be ready to finally process that past trauma and move on with your life. 

Myth #6: “What happens at home should stay at home.” 

In my opinion, this is the most detrimental myth. So many of us were taught by our parents and family to keep our mouths shut about what goes on at home. In addition to ignoring dad’s violence, mom’s depression, and Sam’s eating disorder, we were expected to make excuses when questioned by others. I love the AA adage, “We are only as sick as our secrets.” 

It takes immense courage to speak about the unspeakable. In my work as a trauma and EMDR therapist, I’ve come to realize that many of the secrets we carry are wrapped in shame and were placed on us by someone else. With support from a trained counselor or therapist, you can unload your backpack of shame, process past trauma, and confidentiality move forward. You don’t have to suffer in silence any longer. 

Ready to Give Therapy a Try?

You deserve support from someone who can help you move past your trauma and daily struggles and toward your best life. I hope the information above helps you find the best San Luis Obispo therapist for you. If you are ready to speak your truth and give therapy a try, give me a call at 805-225-4495 for a free 15-minute phone consultation. I specialize in EMDR therapy for women in San Luis Obispo, CA

Tips to Find a Great San Luis Obispo Therapist, Psychologist, or Counselor

San Luis Obispo, CA exudes charm in every corner, boasting near-perfect year-round weather, breathtaking hiking trails, and close proximity to stunning beaches. Its charming downtown is lined with an array of delightful shops and boutiques, and the area hosts several Farmers' Markets each week. Life in this town can be truly enchanting. However, living in San Luis Obispo does present challenges, including limited options for specialized services. If you're seeking a local mental health therapist, I'm here to assist you in finding the support you need.

I want to help you find a great San Luis Obispo therapist

Below are a few suggestions to help you in your search:

Find a San Luis Obispo therapist through Psychology Today 

A great place to start your search is psychologytoday.com. Begin by entering your zip code, and then use the “refine” feature to customize your search. You can refine your search by a specific issue, your health insurance provider, type of therapy, therapist’s faith orientation etc. 

Find a San Luis Obispo therapist through a therapist’s website 

On many therapist’s profiles on Psychology Today, you will find a “My Website” link. I encourage you to choose a few Psychology Today profiles that resonate with you and then explore those therapists’ websites to learn more about their specialties, style, services etc.

Find a San Luis Obispo therapist through your health insurance

Some therapists are contracted directly with health insurance providers. However, many of us (including myself) are out-of-network therapy providers who can give you with a superbill (a form that lists the services you engaged in) that you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. Being a private pay therapist enables me to focus 100% of my attention on giving my clients the care and attention they deserve.  

Find a San Luis Obispo therapist that specializes in treating the issue you are struggling with

Some therapists are generalists and enjoy working with a variety of different issues. Other therapists specialize in a specific population and/or issue(s). For example, in my private therapy practice I specialize in EMDR therapy and online EMDR therapy and I work with women who struggle with past trauma, anxiety, stress management, and/or ADHD.

On Psychology Today profiles many therapists include a long list of areas and issues that they specialize in. I encourage you to check out their website to get a clearer picture of who they are, how they work, and the types of issues that they specialize in.

San Luis Obispo therapy in-person vs. online therapy 

Since the onset of COVID-19, online therapy (also known as telehealth, teletherapy, virtual therapy, etc.) has significantly increased in popularity. While some may perceive online therapy as less personal than in-person sessions, it offers numerous advantages. Many individuals appreciate the added flexibility of online therapy, which allows them to better balance work, children's schedules, and other commitments. This includes the convenience of scheduling therapy sessions during lunch breaks, after dinner, or on weekends. Online therapy also provides a safe option for those with compromised immune systems, eliminating the need to risk their health by attending in-person sessions. Furthermore, many people find that engaging in therapy from the comfort of their own home leads to increased comfort and reduced anxiety.

San Luis Obispo therapist vs. counselor vs. psychologist vs. life coach

The term therapist and counselor is often used interchangeably to describe a professional with specialized training in mental health disorders, emotional and behavioral challenges, and healing after trauma. In California, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) must have at least 3,000 hours of supervised hours and pass a law and ethics and clinical exam before becoming licensed. 

Psychologists often focus on assessments, research and/or teaching and may work closely with a psychiatrist who prescribes medication. Although psychologists and therapists have many of the same skills, psychologists much obtain a doctoral degree. 

Life coaches often focus on life improvement, increasing motivation, and boosting confidence in a variety of different areas. Although many life coaches have specialized training and/or certifications, there are currently no legal standards for becoming a life coach in California. Many life coaches gain their skills through life experience, and they may or may not have specialized training. 

I hope this information helps you find the right therapist for you in San Luis Obispo or Arroyo Grande, CA

A free consultation with a San Luis Obispo therapist

Hi! I’m Andrea Bey, LMFT, an Arroyo Grande and San Luis Obispo therapist for women in California struggling with past trauma, anxiety, stress management, and/or ADHD. Call me today at (805)225-4495 for your FREE 15-minute phone consultation so that you can leave the anxiety and stress behind and live the life you want to live.