Finding a therapist in California can be challenging. Even in some of the biggest California cities, barriers to treatment, like concerns about cost or a lack of available providers, can make finding in-person therapy difficult. If you’re looking for mental health care in the Golden State, consider an online therapy platform like BetterHelp.

BetterHelp therapists have extensive experience and can help you work to overcome your unique challenges and meet your highest potential. From young adults needing help managing the effects of ADHD to seniors struggling to heal from events of the past, therapists can help adults of any age navigate the challenges in their lives and learn how to improve their mental wellness.

If you’re looking for a licensed therapist, CA has many online options available. Contact one of the providers below to schedule your first session and learn more about the benefits of online treatment.

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Dawn Robertson

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW,ACHP-SW
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
13 years of experience

Hello, and welcome to Better Help. Thank you for carving out time to seek out support and attend to your own needs. I recognize how hard that can be. My name is Dawn, and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of California. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in 2009. My pronouns are she/her. I have spent the majority of my career working in healthcare with people who are dealing with serious, chronic and/or life-limiting illness, and their loved ones. Through that experience, I have cultivated a passion for helping people who are coping with symptoms of illness, adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, existential distress, bereavement, and caregiver burnout. I'm also passionate about supporting collegiate-level or elite/professional athletes, as well as those whose careers have exposed them to vicarious trauma. If you are feeling overwhelmed, having difficulty adjusting to a new role or significant change in your life, experiencing mood changes, coping with illness, searching for meaning, struggling with performance or relationships, anticipating a loss, or grieving a loss, I would like you to reach out to me. In my work as a clinician, I have learned that the top priorities for building and maintaining a therapeutic relationship with my clients are trust and consistency. I am here to bear witness to your journey and provide a safe, comforting space for you to find what you are looking for, whether it be healing, peace, enhanced quality of life, meaning, or simply a place to ventilate your emotions. I integrate a variety of psychotherapeutic models in my practice, including but not limited to cognitive-behavioral therapy, dignity therapy, psychodynamic therapy, narrative therapy, and humanistic therapy. My therapeutic style is authentic and non-judgmental, and I hope to empower you to find your own solutions or meaning during our time together.

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Tammy Murphy

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Hello and Welcome! Congratulations on taking action! My name is Tammy Murphy. I am a Licensed Psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience! I currently have the pleasure of working with motivated clients ALL OVER California through my teletherapy practice. Since I transitioned to online therapy several years ago, I have been amazed at how effective this new platform can be! I am pleased to conclude that my clients love it too! People enjoy the convenience of having their sessions in the comfort of their own homes (with their beloved pets, a good cup of coffee, and their favorite cozy chair)! Clients also appreciate sessions on the go through the use of their mobile phones! It’s like taking time out in the middle of a busy day to reflect and reset. Dealing with anxiety, depression, and stress can be overwhelming. Therapy provides the support necessary for people to get on with the business of life so they can re-focus on what really matters! Throughout my career, I have worked in a variety of settings including private practice, county agencies, nonprofits, school districts, and even wilderness/adventure-based therapies. I have loved them all! My therapeutic approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and engaging! I utilize an array of evidence-based practices along with humor! I believe it is the brightest and bravest among us who know when it's time to reach out. I also believe that most of us have a sense of what we need to do differently to improve our lives. The real question is what gets in the way of doing it? Together we can explore barriers, learn new skills, and take small but necessary steps toward reaching your life goals. After all, the most important investment you will ever make is in YOU! I look forward to working with you! Cheers!

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Krystal Johnson

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW,MSW
Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

My name is Krystal Johnson, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I earned my Master of Social Work degree, specializing in Children, Youth and Families, from California State University, Hayward, in 2011 and received my Licensure in 2015. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, relationships/parenting and more. Throughout the years as a clinician, my experience has taught me that the most important aspect of counseling by far is the connection, rapport and comfort you feel with the person you choose to share your most vulnerable thoughts. My goal is to provide insight, techniques, and tools (to work on and practice in between sessions) that you can use in making changes in your life. Most importantly, I will work with you at a pace that you are comfortable with to ensure we are moving toward the goals that you make for yourself. I look forward to encouraging you, empowering you, guiding you, and even challenging you at times. A little bit about me- wife and mother of 3, Licensed Zumba Instructor, Musician, & love to scrapbook!

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Keith Nelson

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW,MAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
18 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Oregon and California. I have over 17 years experience in providing therapy, supervision of therapists, as well as research in the area of substance abuse and emotional dissonance. I work with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, substance abuse and codependency issues, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, ADHD and PTSD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I believe that every person has strengths and the potential for personal growth and a satisfying life. Life presents a myriad of problems and counseling engages both myself and the client in a collaborative process in order to find the processes and answers that will best fit the client’s needs. I believe in treating the “person-in-environment”: our physical, psychological, social and spiritual selves are affected by our beliefs and emotions and also by physical and environmental factors. Thus, the effort to find solutions should accurately reflect the person’s life, stressors and preferences, with respect for personal choice and self-determination. I practice with an emphasis on evidence-based therapies and collaborating with my clients to determine and facilitate “what works”. Our beliefs, perceptions, and behaviors are largely the result of what we learn throughout our lifespan and while we cannot change the past, we can learn from the past to create a new and better future. Therapy is thus an active process aimed at alleviating suffering and developing the inner peace and understanding that makes life worth living. It is truly an honor to be part of that growth process in people’s lives and I appreciate and respect the courage it takes for a person to be willing to engage in that process. Oregon License #7519 California License #21893 I look forward to working with you!

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Cecilia Bueno

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
23 years of experience

Let’s be real. Everyone has problems, and no life is devoid of problems. Perhaps this will be your time to figure it out. What can be done to reduce the quantity of your troubles.? I am here to support, bear witness to, & empower you to do just that. How, you may ask? Let’s start with my age. 60 years old. You may be shocked that I actually told you my age, but I think of it a positive observation. I have been through many valleys and stood on mountaintops. I have raised a family. I have been divorced. I have been heartbroken. I have felt extreme joy. Just like you, I am an individual seeking to understand, and teach individuals the basic tenets of healing. I combine a variety of well researched, and clinically proven therapies such as Internal Family Systems, EMDR, person centered psychotherapy, somatic psychology, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Attachment Theory. If you like we may discuss each, and then formulate a plan forward. However, if you are confident that you know the way forward, yet really could use someone who will listen and not offer instruction/recommendations, then I am still here for you. My education consists of : BA / Addiction studies; MA /Psychology; MA /Somatic Psychology; Ph.D. / Philosophy & Depth Psychology & chemical dependency counselor. I am licensed in the state of TX and CA as an MFT, and in TX as an LCDC. Lastly, I am a certified Ketamine integration coach. If you have received Ketamine therapy and have NOT had the opportunity to integrate your experience, I will assist you in that growth process. I have experience in helping clients overcome the impact of stress and anxiety. I also assist people in discovering what can be done about their addiction, unproductive coping mechanisms, trauma, abuse, and difficulties connecting deeply with those you love. Lastly, my healing philosophy is that Jesus Christ is the healer. He uses people, so this is why I became a psychotherapist. I have no greater privilege, than witnessing firsthand, how God heals people. The first step is the hardest, because it involves showing up in a space that is unknown. Take the chance. Do it for yourself and see what happens.

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Dr. Chu Hui Cha

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersSelf esteemCareer difficultiesADHD
11 years of experience

I am a psychologist with a PhD. I am licensed in California with over 10 years of clinical experience. I have also published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at professional conferences. I help clients with a variety of concerns and symptoms. I approach therapy from an affirming and compassionate lens. The interventions I use are evidence-based and tailored to each individual's unique concerns and needs.

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Brenda Quiroz

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Kirsten Angeliyan

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Southern California. My experience comes from providing direct mental health and behavioral counseling for younger and older adults with a variety of presenting issues including depression, suicidal ideation, bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD, co-dependency, attachment issues, and persistent mental health issues. I approach the therapeutic relationship with a sensitivity and respect for multicultural and social factors. My clinical experience includes working with marginalized populations, homeless individuals, individuals re-entering from incarceration and individuals living with chronic mental health challenges. I also have experience working with individuals in a healthcare setting with work stress, relationship issues, communication issues, and anger management issues. My therapy style and approach draws influence from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, Gestalt, and Narrative Therapy approaches. My communication style is warm, direct, and transparent. My hope is to get to know your communication style so we can work collaboratively to get you to mental wellness - and to do so in a way that makes sense to you. Outside of the therapy room, I am usually cooking up a new cultural dish, keeping up with NBA stats, and spending time with my dogs in the woods. I look forward to the privilege of getting to know who you are and to partnering with you towards feeling better. Change can happen when you give it a chance.

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Sheania Coleman Dorsey

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Beth Pumerantz

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoaching
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

How can therapists in California support you?

Therapists in California can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.

Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 32,349,851 people live in California, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for licensed professionals in California may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.  

The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.

Please note that BetterHelp does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why are many residents in the state of California working with a licensed counselor?

People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county in California, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

Mental health counselors in California support clients with varying issues, which can include:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression or depressive conditions
  • Adjustment issues
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma
  • Relationship conflicts and concerns

Finding a therapist that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.

If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.

Emergency services

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some commonly asked questions can be found below.

How much does a therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.

Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.

How do I know if I should get a therapist?

Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. You do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy; You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions in California can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does insurance cover therapy?

Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.

Is online therapy safe?

Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.

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