Chelsea is one of the best counselors I’ve ever had and I’ve seen many. She truly listens to me and asks me meaningful questions that help me dig deeper into what is really going on with my feelings. I like that she sometimes gives homework but never makes me feel guilty if I can’t complete it. Talking to Chelsea is like talking to a smart, caring friend who happens to have an extremely high emotional IQ.
MS, MA, PPS Chelsea Heller
Provides online counseling through BetterHelp
Mental health conditions are real, common and treatable.
And recovery is possible.
Chelsea Heller is an experienced, licensed Mental Health Professional who specializes in affordable online therapy offered through our partner, BetterHelp.
More about me
Licensing: MS, MA, PPS Years in Practice: 5 State: California
Hi there!
I'm Chelsea! I'm so glad you're exploring therapy - I think everyone can benefit from processing things in life and learning more about themselves. It's important to feel comfortable and connected with your clinician, so I'd like to tell you a bit about myself to help you make an informed decision as to whether or not we'd be a good fit together! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. Previously, I worked as a social worker for Child Protective Services for 9 years, supporting children and families touched by foster care and adoption. As such, I am well versed in addressing core adoption issues, attachment, and identity concerns. Additionally, I have experience treating depression, anxiety, parenting, blended-families, teen concerns, grief/loss, trauma, abuse, crisis, and adjustment. I've also worked at an in-patient psychiatric hospital, helping stabilize individuals short-term with bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, depression, anxiety, addiction, co-morbid disorders, suicidal ideations, self-injurious behaviors, and those encountering psychotic breaks triggered by stress. Equally important was my role in educating families about the diagnosis and ways to support their loved ones. I have since transitioned to the education sector and have been supporting students as a School Psychologist. In this role, I conduct psychoeducational assessments to identify students with autism, intellectual disabilities, AD/HD, and learning disabilities, among others. My assessments are then utilized to inform independent education plans. I also conduct Educationally Related Mental Health Service assessments and provide related counseling, serving students with higher mental health needs. Lastly, I would be remiss if I neglected my passion and experience serving the LGBTQ community. For a portion of my time as a social worker, I worked solely with LGBTQ parents and children, providing support to this community. In the school setting, I conducted my doctoral research focusing on LGBTQ student needs and facilitated a Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) club, supporting LGBTQ students and allies.
I utilize an eclectic approach with clients, though tend to draw primarily from a humanistic, person-centered approach. This dynamic in a therapeutic relationship means I attempt to “meet each client where they are.” This serves as a catalyst, allowing each individual to progress through their unique process of self-discovery. I also utilize principles from leading psychological modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Psychodynamic approaches.
My role as a therapist is not to give you advice or change you. Rather, it is to be an understanding, empathic, and non-judgmental support to help guide you to your own choices, AT YOUR OWN PACE. Together, we can establish goals for therapy, and while I can help you gain insight, I will never push an agenda or risk rupturing our therapeutic relationship.
I know it takes a lot of courage to seek support, and I am humbled by the opportunity to lend my strength during times when you are most vulnerable.
My credentials include:
- Bachelor of Arts in Social Science – California State University, San Marcos
- Certificate in Parent Education and Training – University of California, Los Angeles
- Certificate in Special Education Advocacy – University of San Diego
- Master of Science in Research Psychology – University of Phoenix
- Master of Arts in Counseling (Marriage & Family Therapy) – Mount Saint Mary’s College
- PPS Credential in School Psychology – La Sierra University
- Doctor of Education in Educational Psychology and Mental Health (in progress) – La Sierra University
- Licensed by State of California Board of Behavioral Sciences (LMFT 116834)
About me:
I know it is difficult to share intimate details with someone, while not knowing any personal details about them. I also understand the desire for shared experiences, and feeling as though someone truly understands your pain. Thus, I tend to share some of my background with clients, while maintaining professional boundaries and focus.
Growing up, my mother was a principal and my father was a chief of police. My older brother struggled with learning disabilities and drug addiction as a teen, eventually leading to crime and prison. Thus, as an adolescent, I was quickly exposed to internal conflict, fearing someone I loved, and grieving that relationship. As an adult, I became a single parent and sought my own therapy to manage the intense feelings of shame while learning to co-parent. I have since found a new partner and was recently married after postponing the wedding 4 times due to COVID.. I continue to navigate the challenges of having a blended family with my 6-year-old daughter and 6-year-old step son. I enjoy concerts, photography, soccer, and camping. I also use profanity a shitload more than I care to admit.
About online counseling
Online counseling allows you to receive care from an online mental health practitioner via phone, video chat, or instant messaging. It is convenient for those who may have trouble getting to or would prefer not to have in-person therapy appointments. Ranging from $60 to $90 per week, online counseling is generally more affordable than in-person counseling. A study by researchers at University of California, Berkeley found that online counseling can be just as effective as face-to-face therapy while being more convenient, affordable, and accessible.
Try online counseling with Chelsea Heller
Chat now- Issues
- Stress Anxiety LGBT Trauma and abuse Parenting issues ADHD Relationship issues Family conflicts Grief Anger management Self esteem Career difficulties Bipolar disorder Depression Coping with life changes
- Languages Spoken
- English
Services offered
No judgment
When you tap CHAT NOW a new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation.
Please note: It can take up to 24-48 hours to be matched to a therapist.