Brett McGillivray, LCSW

Therapist in California

Empathetic LCSW helping with mood and life transitions

Continue with Brett Review online therapy options on BetterHelp.

Depression and anxiety
LGBTQ concerns
Sobriety support

About Brett

Brett McGillivray is a licensed clinical social worker in California with 18 years of experience. He helps people who are dealing with stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression. He also supports those working through LGBT concerns, relationship struggles, and issues around sexuality and life purpose.

Brett meets people with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. He adapts conversations and plans to each person's needs. He emphasizes practical steps and steady support rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.

He brings personal experience with long-term sobriety and offers support for addiction-related concerns when those issues come up. Brett aims to help people build motivation, confidence, and clearer direction in life.

Sessions focus on understanding what matters to the person and then trying usable ways to feel better and function more easily day to day. He helps people talk through communication problems, workplace stress, guilt and shame, and mood challenges.

Brett encourages taking small, manageable steps toward change and celebrates progress along the way. He works in English and practices in California, shaping treatment to fit each person's goals and circumstances.

This summary is based on the profile information listed on BetterHelp.

Practical approaches for mood and life challenges

Many clinicians use evidence-based techniques that focus on thoughts, behaviors, and coping skills. One common approach helps people identify unhelpful thought patterns and try different ways of thinking to reduce distress; this can help with anxiety and depression by making emotions easier to manage. Another approach emphasizes making small behavior changes and scheduling positive activities to lift mood and build routine, which can be useful for motivation and low mood.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will work with each person to figure out which techniques fit their needs, goals, and preferences. Together they try methods, check how they feel, and adjust the plan as progress is made.

Session formats are not specified in the biography, so confirm current options before booking. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy life, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when a full in-person session would be harder to schedule. It can also let people choose a calmer setting for talking or avoid being on camera if that helps them engage more comfortably.

Frequently asked questions

What kinds of problems does Brett help with?

He helps people facing stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem struggles, relationship concerns, and LGBT related issues. Additional focus areas include communication problems, guilt and shame, life purpose, and workplace issues.

What is his approach in sessions?

Brett adapts conversation and plans to each person’s needs, focusing on practical steps and steady support. He aims to help people build confidence and find clearer direction through regular dialogue and goal-setting.

How much clinical experience does he have?

He has 18 years of professional work experience supporting people with mood and life challenges. That background includes helping with addiction concerns alongside mood and relationship issues.

What credentials and location are listed?

He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW, practicing in California. The profile lists his credential as CA LCSW.

Which languages are supported for sessions?

Sessions are offered in English.

Can international clients work with him?

International clients are not currently accepted.

How does pricing work?

Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time. Exact pricing is provided through the platform at signup.

How do I begin a session?

Select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to the therapist’s availability.

Therapists on BetterHelp do not prescribe medication. A doctor can talk with you about medical options. If you are thinking about suicide, call or text 988; in an emergency, call 911.