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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Jennifer Bobadilla

Offering therapy in California
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
8 years of experience

Hello, I am glad you are here. If this is your first time in therapy, this may feel overwhelming to walk into. I am glad that you are advocating for you and taking care of you, even if it feels hard to reach out. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe in the power in having a safe place to figure things out with someone who feels safe for you. Whatever hurdles you feel like are standing in your way right now, we can jump over them together at the pace you'd like. I am here to hold whatever you would like me to, so that you are getting what you want out of therapy. I want to help you feel supported and heard through warmth and compassion. My approach emphasizes self-care and self-compassion, connected and healthy relationships, and processing things through to increase your self-awareness. I have extensive experience in working with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, and self-esteem and confidence. I received my Bachelors Degree in Psychology and Masters Degree in Counseling from California State University, Fullerton. I am passionate about working from an attachment perspective. Outside of being a therapist, I enjoy drinking coffee with my husband and hanging out with my dog! I also love all things cooking, eating, and recipe-trying! I look forward to connecting with you. Jennifer

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Laura Lien-Mitobe

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Hello and welcome to my profile! My primary goal as a therapist is to provide a client-centered, non-judgmental, caring, supportive, safe space for you to explore experiences, patterns and feelings that may be causing you pain and/or hindering your personal goals and growth. I have been a licensed MFT therapist for over 20 years and worked with people from all lifestyles and cultures. I have experience in a number of therapy modalities and as a teacher. It takes courage to participate in the process of therapy. My wish is to accompany and assist you as you determine the path that leads to a more enriched life. • My experience includes counseling: Individuals, Couples, Families, and Groups Person-centered, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-focused therapies are some of the therapy modalities that I use. But most importantly, the therapy must be tailored to the needs of the client. • Some of the issues that I have helped people with are: Stress, Anxiety and Depression Grief Special interest: Pet loss (It has an unique impact on people who lose a beloved pet) Compassion fatigue (special interest in veterinarians and staff, as well as, others in helping roles) Chemical dependency and Co-dependency Issues with eating Seniors experiencing life transitions Motivational Coaching Parenting

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Gregory Barringer

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
GriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California and Colorado. I received specialized training as a fellow at Stanford Children’s and Adult Hospitals. I understand that starting therapy can be daunting, but I am here to listen to my client’s needs without judgement and incorporate your goals to establish a holistic treatment plan to address your individual situation. My counseling style revolves around authenticity and genuine interaction. Treatment begins with mutual respect, compassion, and where you currently are in your life. My approach combines ACT, motivational interviewing, and task-centered therapies. Best of luck in your search for counseling options, and look forward to working with you!

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CLAUDIA ULWELLING

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hello, My name is Claudia. A little about me: I graduated in 2013 with a masters degree in psychology and am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with children, adults and families who have decided therapy could be a source of support. I emphasize the word DECIDE because therapy will work best when -you're ready- for reflection, compromise and, when applicable, open for change. My approach to therapy is strength-based, solution focused and client-centered. Each person's story is unique; therefore, I use multiple treatment modalities to meet each individual's needs. I work collaboratively with clients throughout their counseling process and journey to support them in their healing. Thank you for taking the first step in your healing, and I hope to meet you soon.

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Adriene Faust

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefAnger management
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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. 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.

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Keith McCann

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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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Amanda Stoner

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed MFT with over 7 years of experience working with teens and parents. In working with my clients, I use a variety of theories and techniques predominantly solution focused and CBT to assist both the needs and goals of the client. I strongly believe in meeting my clients where they are at and partnering together to explore, brainstorm and reach goals. I work to create a safe and supportive environment where my clients feel comfortable sharing their challenges, thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.

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Nesha Tandon

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Carolina Thompson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with 13 years of combined training and professional experience. I'm experienced in helping clients with strategies and skills for effectively responding to stress and anxiety. I’m also experienced in treating issues of depression, grief and loss, and life transitions. Furthermore, I have training and experience in Christian-based therapy, including integrating Christian-spiritual principles into the therapy process, upon request. I believe you have many strengths that lend to your resilience in overcoming challenges. Choosing to participate in therapy is a courageous step of initiative in moving toward positive change in your life. I am here to support & empower your growth and healing process.

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Christopher Caston

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How can a counselor support you?

Therapists 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 CA, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for local licensed professionals 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 therapists in California does not offer diagnostic or medication management services in therapy.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor or therapists?

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, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

The mental health therapists in California support clients with varying issues through therapy, working with:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders requiring therapy
  • Anxiety disorders in need of therapeutic support
  • Depression or depressive mental health conditions
  • Adjustment issues in need of therapeutic support
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief therapy
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma therapy
  • Relationship conflicts and mental health concerns

Finding a therapist in California 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 to contact in a crisis

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

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some of the most commonly asked questions about therapy can be found in the section below.

How much does therapy with a licensed therapist cost?

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

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $65 to $100 per week. 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.

Is it possible to find a therapist, counselor, or psychology practitioner that offers affordable therapy?

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.

When should I get a therapist in California?

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.

What can a psychologist help me with in therapy?

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 can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does insurance cover the cost of in-person or online therapy with a therapist in California?

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.

Are online therapy sessions the safe option?

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.

In today's fast-paced society, mental well-being has become a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Amid the daily challenges and stressors that can overwhelm even the most resilient individuals, seeking professional guidance often offers a path to clarity and balance. The journey toward improved emotional health involves understanding personal triggers, embracing self-compassion, and developing effective coping strategies. While self-help books and online resources provide valuable information, nothing compares to the personalized support offered by a qualified mental health professional. One-on-one sessions with experienced experts can help uncover the underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles. With a careful and empathetic approach, these professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, ensuring that each person receives strategies that work best for their unique circumstances. Whether through cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other innovative methods, the aim is to foster resilience and empower individuals to take control of their inner lives. For those living in bustling urban centers, engaging in face-to-face sessions in a welcoming environment can be particularly beneficial. Access to a caring clinician provides not only a safe space to explore difficult emotions but also builds a support network essential for long-term recovery. The process encourages self-reflection and greater insight into behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. While the journey can be challenging at times, the rewards include enhanced emotional stability, improved interpersonal relationships, and a renewed sense of self-worth. In one notable case, the guidance provided by a highly trained therapist proved instrumental in navigating a tumultuous period. Through structured sessions and tailored interventions, the individual learned to identify stressors and develop healthier responses to adversity. This experience underscored the transformative impact that dedicated support can have on one's overall quality of life. In a region like Texas, community-based initiatives and accessible mental health programs further reinforce the value of professional help. These efforts emphasize early intervention, preventive care, and continuous support, ensuring that more people are equipped to face life's inevitable challenges. Ultimately, investing in mental well-being is an act of self-care that yields lifelong benefits. By embracing professional support, individuals can unlock new levels of emotional resilience and discover pathways to a brighter, more balanced future. Each step taken toward healing represents a commitment to personal growth, enabling a life filled with renewed optimism and strength. Embracing this transformative journey consistently paves the way for deeper understanding, lasting peace, and meaningful personal progress.
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