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Dr. Monica Kelson

Dr. Monica Kelson, CA Psychologist 13224

Therapist in California

Experienced California psychologist helping with depression

Continue with Monica Review online therapy options on BetterHelp.
  • 33 years experience
  • Practical emotion skills
  • Trauma informed care

About Monica

Dr. Monica Kelson is a California psychologist with 33 years of clinical experience. She helps people facing stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, low self-esteem, depression, grief, career changes, and compassion fatigue. She creates an open space where clients can speak honestly and feel heard. Taking the first step often takes courage, and she welcomes that decision.

In sessions she focuses on practical ways to manage strong emotions and regain day-to-day functioning. She uses tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to identify and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills are used for emotion regulation and coping during moments of intense distress.

Dr. Kelson also integrates Attachment-Based ideas to improve how people relate to others and process relationship stress. When trauma is central, she may use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing to help process painful memories. She adapts these approaches to each person rather than following a single script.

Her style is straightforward and compassionate. She listens first, then offers techniques that are easy to practice between sessions. The emphasis is on small, concrete steps that build toward clearer thinking and steadier mood.

To begin, a prospective client completes a short matching questionnaire and schedules sessions based on therapist availability. Fees vary by location and availability, and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

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

How these approaches translate to online work

Attachment-Based Therapy looks at how early patterns of relating affect current relationships. Online sessions can help people notice those patterns and try new ways of connecting and setting boundaries. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and testing small behavioral changes to improve mood and daily functioning. It is often used for anxiety, depression, and stress management.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapy process. The therapist will talk with each person about their needs, goals, and preferences and then recommend a combination of approaches. That decision is collaborative and may change as progress is made.

The original biography does not list specific session formats, so confirm available options before booking. Many people appreciate online therapy because it can fit more easily into a busy schedule, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. Others choose sessions to work through difficult memories or practice new relationship skills from day-to-day life. Discuss format preferences when you schedule so sessions match practical needs and treatment goals.

Frequently asked questions

What concerns does this therapist commonly address?

She works with people facing stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, low self-esteem, depression, grief, career changes, and compassion fatigue.

What is the therapy style like?

The approach is direct and compassionate, focusing on listening first and then teaching practical skills to manage emotions and day-to-day problems.

How long has she been practicing?

She has 33 years of professional experience working with people in clinical settings.

What credentials and location are listed?

She is listed as CA Psychologist 13224 and practices in California.

Which languages are supported and can international clients join?

Sessions are offered in English and international clients are not currently accepted.

What session formats are offered?

The original biography does not specify session formats. Please confirm current session options before booking.

How is cost handled?

Fees vary with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

How do I get started with this therapist?

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

Dr. Monica KelsonContinue with Monica