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.
Bonnie Fagan
If you are feeling stuck in your relationship, career, family role, or struggling with a life transition and are unsure of how to move forward, I can help. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where we can work together to explore your emotions, experiences, and challenges and help you on your journey toward finding personal fulfillment. I use a person centered approach where I integrate Strengths Based, Mindfulness, and CBT techniques that are tailored to your specific needs. I have experience working with individuals and families from a range of backgrounds having trouble adjusting to challenges. I specialize in helping individuals manage life & relationship challenges, working with trauma survivors to overcome experiences, addressing issues related to maternal wellness, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, self-esteem, and coaching parents on managing difficult behaviors in young children. I also enjoy working with college students and young adults as they navigate their journeys in relationships and finding their place in their careers. I look forward to getting to know you and working together to support your individual needs.
Kari Hidalgo
Welcome! My name is Kari Hidalgo and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in the state of California and Colorado. I have been providing direct counseling services for over ten years and tele mental health services for over five years. I have worked with individuals, couples and families as they navigate different seasons of life. I have helped clients manage trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, stress, postpartum depression, difficult relationships and parenting challenges while encouraging, supporting, holding hope, exploring self care and helping them identify healthy boundaries. I have always loved listening to people’s stories and walking alongside them in their journey. I am passionate about helping individuals and families develop healthier, more positively connected relationships. As a wife and working mother of four, I am aware of how challenging it is to live a balanced, fulfilled life, therefore I find it incredibly rewarding to help all people, whatever they might be struggling with. I am also passionate about helping individuals as they approach different stages of life. I am trained in the Trauma and Community Resiliency Models and EMDR and often utilize Solution Focused Therapy and Mindfulness in my sessions. I recently became a certified grief counselor. I desire to not only help those who have experienced significant trauma but also those dealing with everyday stressors, to find peace, joy and hope in this otherwise chaotic world. Reaching out for help can be very scary. I am here to help in whatever way I can, but in particular to be a consistent, dedicated support as long as necessary. Looking Forward, Kari
Courtney Cope
Hello there! I am so glad you are here. My name is Courtney and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has been working in the mental health field since 2010. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing difficulty with life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief/loss, professional and career challenges, partner/relationship stress, life crises, adjustment issues, and a variety of other challenges. My clinical approach is person-centered and humanistic in nature. When we begin our work together my goal is to help you feel as comfortable, safe, and know that what you share with me is valued and held in confidence. I also highly draw upon Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Neurolinguistic Programming, Bowenian Family Systems, Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, and the work of Carl Rogers as a foundation for the work I do with clients. My goal is provide you with a therapeutic experience that allows you to feel relief and shifts sooner rather than later and to give you a sense of confidence moving forward in both yourself and the therapeutic process. As my client, you can expect to be treated with respect, care, compassion, and have someone walking beside you who will support you in becoming the best version of yourself that feels right, true, and honest to you. On a personal note, I have been on both sides of the therapeutic exchange as both a therapist and as a client over the previous 22 years. As a therapist, I draw on my experience from sitting in the client seat to infuse experiences and qualities I valued as a client into my sessions with my own clientele now as the therapist: compassion, confidentiality, non-judgmental conversation, unconditional positive regard, helpful insight, mirroring and reflecting values and priorities back to client to enhance their personal life clarity, and providing a safe and welcome space where clients always feel cozy and at ease. In my experience, having someone you can be totally open and honest with to help process and sort through all the thoughts, feelings, and information you have inside your head, heart, and body can begin to make a huge difference in how you feel. And I am honored to fulfill that sacred role in the lives of my clients. I look forward to meeting you, getting to know more about what is going on in your life right now, and beginning to help you feel better through our time together. For your reference, my online office hours are Monday-Saturday. Sunday is my personal day and I am not available for messaging or sessions that day. Any messages I receive after Saturday evening will be responded to by Monday at noon.
Dr. Richard LeGassick, Ph.D.
Hello. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a broad range of experience of over 35 years. I have found that when people reach a personal life impasse, they often benefit from developing increased self-understanding and an outside impartial opinion. My primary interest is in providing Humanistic and Problem Solving counseling; helping resolve the difficulties of Life Transitions: Family Separations (Divorce, Child Custody/ Reunification); Career changes; Marital and pre-marital; and Blended families. My clients learn to understand and resolve Depression and Anxiety and Grieve the Loss of loved ones. I am a consultant in areas of Couple Communication, and Parenting; with First Responders; USA Military Service Members and their families. My approach is Humanistic/Cognitive/ Interpersonal; Learning to cope with Traumatic Life Changes. Throughout my career, I have worked in community Mental Health centers, and on crisis teams. I provide the most useful guidance through guiding the development of Self-Awareness, Self-Acceptance, and Independence; Finding One's Strengths and Coping Skills, while improving Communication. I value the impact of Positive Psychology as well as Mindfulness Meditation; Expressing Gratefulness. [Note: I currently schedule 9:00-6:00 PST weekday appointments]
Sharricci Dancy
Hello, welcome to my profile page. When I'm not providing therapeutic services for BetterHelp, I'm out in the field as a licensed clinical social worker for the County healthcare case management program. Over the past decade, I have had the privilege of journeying alongside adults and families facing mental health concerns, and let me tell you, it is my absolute passion! My toolbox is filled with therapeutic approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, client-centered therapy, and if you prefer, I can bring in psychoanalysis or narrative therapy too! Your comfort and receptiveness guide our sessions, ensuring we find what works best for you. In our time together, I'm not just a therapist—I am your companion, a guide, a vessel for you to explore your inner thoughts and feelings in a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space. I am genuinely excited to get to know you better and discover how I can help you on your therapeutic journey. Remember, taking the first step towards change is a courageous leap towards a happier, more fulfilling life, and if you are ready to take that leap, I am here to support and empower you every step of the way! :) So, what do you say? Let's kickstart your therapeutic journey together—schedule a session with me, and let's make some positive changes happen! Hope to talk with you soon. :) Take care, Sharri
Dr. Andrew Mendonsa
Your Authentic Self, Your Strongest Self: Therapy Tailored in a Safe, Supportive Space Hello! I'm Dr. Andrew Mendonsa, a clinical psychologist and therapist with 20+ years of experience helping folks like you navigate life's complexities and embrace their true potential and authentic self. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, those struggling with problematic sexual behavior, kink/alt lifestyle/polyamory-focused issues, and anyone seeking a male therapist's perspective. My journey through the worlds of mental health and addiction – from community mental health and marginalized groups, to the criminal justice system, to high wealth clients and corporate boardrooms – has equipped me with a deep understanding of the challenges clients, especially men and those from specialized populations, face today. I've helped countless individuals overcome shame, guilt, depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and the unique pressures of modern life. As an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, I offer a safe and judgment-free space to explore your identity, gender, relationships, sexual expression, and sexuality. Whether you're questioning, coming out, or navigating the unique stressors of the LGBTQIA+, kink, alt-pop, or straight communities, I'm here to support you on your journey! For those grappling with problematic sexual behavior that is causing issues with your work, relationships, finance, or other areas, I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to recovery. I will not tell you to stop what you are doing or else, instead we will identify what is motivating your behavior and desire to change. Knowing these, we can then develop a tailored treatment plan and achievable goals. Together, we'll address the underlying issues, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and rebuild a fulfilling life free from shame, guilt, and compulsive behaviors. My extensive background working with high-achieving individuals in business and academia makes me uniquely equipped to understand the pressures of professional life. If you're struggling with work-related stress, burnout, or career transitions, I can offer practical strategies for success and well-being. I have owned, sold, and managed companies and worked in high levels within the public sector. My approach to therapy is collaborative, goal-oriented, and results-driven. I believe therapy should be a catalyst for change, not a lifelong commitment. Think of it like a tune-up for your mind – we'll get you back on track and running smoothly. You wouldn't leave your car in the shop forever, would you? So why force yourself into a lifetime of therapy? I invite you to visit my website, www.AndrewMendonsa.com, to learn more about me and my approach. Let's work together to build a life that is authentic, fulfilling, and true to you.
Patricia Riley
I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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.
Rachel Johnson
I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. 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!
Rebecca Prager
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 25 years of professional work experience with a wide range of young people, adults, families and community groups. I am also a massage therapist and birth doula, and approach therapy as part of healing your whole self. Our areas of focus could include: visioning your best life and taking the steps to get there; coping with stress, depression and/or anxiety; integrating trauma ; coping with grief and loss; building self-esteem and confidence. I believe that you hold wisdom in your story. You have innate strengths that will support you in facing and metabolizing challenges, which leads to healing and the ability to thrive. Taking the step to start therapy takes time, courage, curiosity and commitment. Thank you for starting on this journey and I look forward to working together!
Colleen Blackman
I am licensed therapist in California with 20 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. Hours availed for sessions: Monday-Thursday 6 AM- 7PM.
Antonio Medrano
I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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. 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.
Tessa Cosand
I am licensed in California with 9 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 also have provided therapy for individuals struggling with addiction from substance use. 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.
Cassandra Jimenez
I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, & concentration, memory. I also have experience working with focus (adhd). 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. 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.
Michelle Naidenoff
I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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. 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.
Salina Cobbin
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist/Art Therapist in CA and have been working with the BIPOC community since 2016. I have experience in helping folks with depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationship issues, trauma, self-esteem, intersecting identities, stress management and life transitions/changes. I tailor treatment based on your individuals needs utilizing Narrative Therapy, EMDR Therapy, CBT, and/or Art Therapy. My goal is to collaborate with each individual and create a safe space to support the healing 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat featur
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
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.
Popular cities in California
- Los Angeles, CA
- San Diego, CA
- San Jose, CA
- San Francisco, CA
- Fresno, CA
- Sacramento, CA
- Long Beach, CA
- Oakland, CA
- Bakersfield, CA
- Anaheim, CA
- Santa Ana, CA
- Riverside, CA
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