I started with Alvin several months ago at a time when I felt things were shifting in my work, family, and relationship life (platonic and romantic). After addressing some foundational understandings about my development and progress as an adult, I began to better understand who I was and what thoughts I was allowing hold me back from going after what I wanted. With Alvin's encouragement, I felt more comfortable setting my own boundaries and pursuing things that were right for me. In addition, he was accessible, responsive to my messages, and understood my triggers in a considerate way. I'm very grateful.
Alvin Tan, LCSW
Experienced mental health professional
Provides online counseling through BetterHelp
At a glance
Alvin is an experienced, licensed Mental Health Professional who specializes in affordable online therapy offered through our partner, BetterHelp.
- 4.5 stars
- Clients are very satisfied with Alvin. View 2 reviews
- Speaks English
- Offers Telehealth visits
- Licensed in California
Recent reviews
I will recommend anyone to my counselor he give me goals and encourage me always
More about Alvin
- 4 years' experience
- Male
- LCSW
Hi, I am a licensed clinical social worker in San Diego, California. My primary background experience is in helping clients to regain/increase control over their mental health, via developing increased insight/understanding of symptoms, identifying and utilizing coping skills, developing positive support systems, and increasing ability to problem-solve/navigate challenges.
I have worked with adults in multiple settings, including those experiencing active crisis within acute locked psychiatric care, clients coming into an outpatient clinic for mental health services and counseling/groups, clients utilizing substance use disorder treatment individually and in groups, and adult clients with developmental disabilities in the group home setting. Professionally, I've worked both as direct care staff as well as in management and supervisor roles, and have also mentored undergrad and grad students.
I'm looking forward to meeting you and offering you support.
Specialties
Stress
Anxiety
Career difficulties
Depression
Coping with life changes
Addictions
Relationship issues
Family conflicts
Trauma and abuse
Grief
Intimacy-related issues
Anger management
Self esteem
Compassion fatigue
ADHD
Social anxiety and phobia
Treatment Approaches
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Motivational Interviewing
- Solution-Focused Therapy
Licenses
Alvin Tan's National Provider Identifier (NPI) is 1588079123.
- LCSW · California · 94348 · Expires March 2026
About online counseling
- Affordable.
- Pay a low flat fee.
- Convenient.
- Do it at your own time and at your own pace. Communicate whenever you feel it's needed.
- Available now.
- There is no waiting list and no calls to make. Simply fill out a short questionnaire and send your first message.
Online counseling allows you to receive care from a 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. Starting at $65 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.
Reviews for Alvin Tan
All reviews have been submitted by clients after seeing the provider.
Overall rating:
I started with Alvin several months ago at a time when I felt things were shifting in my work, family, and relationship life (platonic and romantic). After addressing some foundational understandings about my development and progress as an adult, I began to better understand who I was and what thoughts I was allowing hold me back from going after what I wanted. With Alvin's encouragement, I felt more comfortable setting my own boundaries and pursuing things that were right for me. In addition, he was accessible, responsive to my messages, and understood my triggers in a considerate way. I'm very grateful.
I will recommend anyone to my counselor he give me goals and encourage me always
Frequently asked questions
Does Alvin Tan offer telehealth visits?
Yes. Alvin Tan works with clients by exchanging messages, chatting live, speaking over the phone, or video conferencing based on what works for the client at that particular time.
What language(s) does Alvin Tan speak?
Alvin Tan speaks English.
How many years of experience does Alvin Tan have?
Alvin Tan has 4 years of experience.
Where is Alvin Tan licensed to practice?
Alvin Tan is licensed to practice in California.
Does Alvin Tan accept clients outside of the United States?
No, Alvin Tan does not accept clients outside of the United States.
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
Numerous studies support the effectiveness of online platforms in facilitating life changes. For instance, research published by JMIR Publications, conducted by teams from the University of Berkeley, UCSF, and SF General Hospital, found that "users of BetterHelp experienced significantly reduced depression symptom severity after engaging with the platform."
What treatment approaches does Alvin Tan offer?
Alvin Tan offers clients Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
How can I communicate with Alvin Tan?
Alvin Tan can be engaged in any one of four ways: (1) Exchanging messages, (2) chatting live, (3) speaking over the phone, or (4) video conferencing. You can use different ways at different times as you wish, based on your needs, availability, and convenience.
How do I get started with Alvin Tan?
Just tap the CHAT NOW button or tap here: 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 a few days to be matched to a therapist.
Mental health conditions are real, common, and treatable.
And recovery is possible.
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 a few days to be matched to a therapist.