Finding a therapist in California can be challenging. Even in some of the biggest California cities, concerns about cost or a lack of available providers can make finding an in-person therapist 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. From young adults needing help managing ADHD to seniors struggling to heal from past events, therapists can help adults of any age navigate the challenges in their lives and learn 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.

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Dr. Glenda Baez

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 49849
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesDepression
19 years of experience

My name is Glenda Baez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in San Diego, California. I have a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology and have a doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am bilingual as Spanish is my second language and frequently conduct therapy in this language. I currently own a online teletherapy private practice and work with primarily individuals and couples. I have 19 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked as an outpatient therapist in clinics, non-profit settings, doing therapy in a preschool setting, I have also done extensive utilization management and quality management work. I have extensive experience working with very young children, school age children and adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I believe in being empathetic, warm, supportive, as well as empowering my clients in finding solutions. I approach issues from a solution-focused approach and also use cognitive-behavioral techniques to help address issues and improve self-esteem, self-awareness, improve mood, and work towards moving forward with life.

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Dr. Madison Brightwell

Offering therapy in California
License: OR LMFT T1717, NC LMFT 2068
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
19 years of experience

I always treat every client as a unique and special individual who I can empower to find their own inner guidance and healing ability. I love what I do and I feel this is my purpose in life. I specialize in helping people with addictions, pain, trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and anger. It is my belief that addictions, pain and trauma are closely linked and it is my mission to break the cycle of despair that keeps people trapped in pain, whether it is emotional or physical. I have a behavioral approach to counseling, and I believe in working to help the client by looking at where they are right now and enabling them to move forward in a more positive direction with their lives. Treatment Approach I have a very creative approach to my work and enjoy using expressive arts to help people discover a new self-identity. My unique experience as a performing artist helps me to find creative ways to move people out of their negative patterns of behavior and transform their lives.

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Gary Youssef

Offering therapy in California
License: OH LIMFT F.2500504, CA LMFT 45456
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
22 years of experience

I have been providing mental health services for children, adolescents adults and families for 25+ years. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in behavioral health for children, career/school stressors, relational issues, parenting, family systems and healthy lifestyles. I worked for 14 years as a therapist and administrator in the central outpatient psychiatry clinic at Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego which is ranked as one of the top 10 children's hospitals in the United States by U.S. News and World report where I helped provide behavioral health services for over 10,000 children, adults and families. In addition, I helped support U.S. service members and their families while working as a military family life counselor at Naval Medical Center-San Diego in Pediatrics. I am practical therapist combining elements from theoretical orientations such as cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy. I also volunteered at San Diego Unified School District and coached little league. I love being a father to my two awesome sons and I enjoy athletics and cooking in my free time. The vast majority of my clients report that they had a good experience working with me and describe me as experienced, professional, friendly, kind, helpful and effective.

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Howard Acosta

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 74837
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTParenting issuesAnger management
24 years of experience

HELLO! Feeling stuck? We live in challenging times and relief doesn't seem fast enough these days. I've been there, I've been counseling 24+ years and I know what works and what works fast. My job as a licensed psychotherapist is to get you in-and-out as soon as possible and to ensure you learn what works by teaching you up-front, rapid, science-based coping methods and strategies that work to quickly move you towards more relaxation, self-control and/or joy as fast as possible. In fact I've written books about it titled "UCoping" and "UCoping: Interactive Edition" available on Amazon. The methods in UCoping are the methods I use in treatment. They CUT TO THE CHASE, without all the PSYCHOBABBLE and instead teach you how to RAPIDLY use science-based coping correctly. Then I teach how to CRYSTALIZE the methods for life in as short of an amount of sessions as possible—usually 1-5 sessions. After then we can triage for transition to long-term therapy if needed! This is how I practice in treatment. It all comes through an active faith, being a licensed therapist and through the academics of clinical psychotherapy. I treat anxiety, depression, sexual identity distress (not sex addiction) with co-occurring drug/alcohol issues, as applicable. I also treat symptoms of anger management and psychosis (not personality disorders) and provide parenting psychoeducation. I teach clients how to turn evidence-based coping methods into habits for life! I add faith, spiritual and/or religious discussions as needed in a style that is calm, warm and compassionate. I mostly use Cognitive/Behavioral Therapy (CBT), some Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Solution-Focused Treatment (SFT) to name a few. Let's get started working together to get you unstuck fast for life!

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Doris Lassiter

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 153501, NV LMFT 01366
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

Hello: I am happy to meet with you! I am a caring, kind and altruistic therapist with you in mind. I start my sessions with a assessment of your personal goals and what you want to achieve in the therapeutic relationship. I will use all the appropriate therapy approaches to support you with attaining the goals you identified in the initial session. I will use all my skills with a caring positive stance to help you in the process of recovery from the symptoms that caused you to seek therapy. I have worked in the field of mental health since 1996 at various capacities. I began as a recreation therapist in 1996 and provided recreation programs for adults and children with mental or physical disabilities. In 2011, I completed my master's degree in Marriage and Family therapy, and I am licensed in the state of Nevada and California. I have been working as a therapist for over 14 years.; I am delighted to be serving you in the awesome and pleasant process of achieving you dream life and desired outcomes. As I have stated, I have many years of service as a mental health professional and have vast experience helping people cope with complex issues, mental health symptoms and working towards their identified goals. I also have done counseling from a Biblical perspective, and can support people who want Christian based counseling, resolve issues and achieve their goals. My work as a Christian counselor includes using Biblical ethics of establishing peace, health and emotional wellness while working on the individual's desired outcomes. My experience also includes extensive work with the teenage population. I use all therapeutic interventions appropriate for the individual to support them with self-esteem, healthy boundaries, living a healthy, happy life, while working on their identified goals. Finally, I have counseled many couples and have the experience and skills to support them with resolving relational issues, keeping the relationship strong and healthy, and achieving amicable communication between each partner. I am looking forward to the opportunity to work with you, help you cope with the issues that you want to resolve in the therapeutic relationship. It is my greatest desire to support you with achieving a beautiful life.

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Cynthia Rumford-Jones

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 102582
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

CONGRATULATIONS!!!! You are in the right place at the right time, and I commend you for your courage and follow-through. My name is Cynthia Rumford-Jones and I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist (LCSW), welcome to my BetterHelp Therapist profile! Life is pretty complex and sometimes presents us with challenges that require support and therapeutic interventions to achieve the balance and overall wellness we may desire . Today is a good day as you have taken one of the most important steps towards elevating your wellness and living a life you love; you are “taking action”. My educational background includes a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from the University of California, Berkeley. I have over 20 years of experience working as a therapist/counselor, and an additional 10 years working in the field of social work and human services, public and private sectors. My specialties include treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and challenges related to life transitions, anger management, relationship issues, family conflict, parenting, and foster care. I am also experienced in grief/loss, eating disorders, and challenges related to divorce and separation, multi-cultural concerns, prejudice and discrimination, and chronic mental illness. CLINICAL APPROACHES My therapy style is warm, supportive, interactive, and empowering. I utilize a client-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy approach with a solution focused perspective, and have training and extensive experience in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), and Multi-Dimensional Treatment Foster Care (MTFC). As a conscientious therapist it is important to me to provide a safe, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment and offer a style and approach that best fits the needs of each individual. I know finding a therapist who is a “good fit” is key to the overall effectiveness and successful outcome of therapy and the task of doing so can be quite arduous. May your mission to find that “good fit” be accomplished swiftly. If you are ready to take the next step, I’m here and looking forward to partnering with you to create a treatment plan with specific and structured goals that meet your specific needs, as well supporting and empowering you as you strive to elevate your wellness. YEARS OF CLINICAL, SOCIAL WORK, and HUMAN SERVICES EXPERIENCE 30 years

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Michael Demoratz

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 13283
GriefDepression
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients coping with grief, loss, depression, & compassion fatigue. I am considered and recognized as a subject matter expert in end-of-life care and have published extensively. I have a series of free videos available on YouTube.be 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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Earl Barrios

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 229
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
38 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 36 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, 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. 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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Natarajan Gowda

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 24853
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.

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Kendal Lardie

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 101763
AddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in multiple areas, including addiction, relationship issues, self-esteem building, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I believe the most important part of therapy is the relationship you have with your therapist, which should be one of respect and understanding. I believe in treating all people with care an compassion. Our sessions will be focused on what you believe the most important concern is at that time, as well as how that ties into your ultimate goal for treatment. I commend you for seeking out help and taking the time to better yourself, and I am excited to be a part of the process.

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John Fielder

Offering therapy in California
License: CA Psychologist 6375
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. 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.

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Lynn Novatt

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 79846
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
17 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a professional Life and Leadership Coach, based in Los Angeles. With 17 years of experience as both a therapist and a coach, I offer an unparalleled blend of knowledge, tools and insights. Clients reflect to me my acute listening skills, empathetic approach and calm demeanor. My intention is to serve you in feeling deeply seen, completely safe, and fully supported as you have made the courageous decision to seek therapy. I see our time together as a sacred space for your healing, and the work we do together can be a springboard for your growth. In addition to my Marriage and Family Therapist license, I have a Master’s Degree in Spiritual Psychology from the University of Santa Monica. I have done my own deep therapeutic work which allows me to meet my clients where they are; no gimmicks, just deep, authentic listening, so that I can reflect back what I see and hear. My style and approach is one of encouragement, compassion, and optimism, as well as honest feedback. I strive to create a safe space where my clients can relax their body and their mind (their thinking,) allowing them to see possibility for themselves. Through this new lens, clients can gain clarity, get creative and take action in their lives. My therapeutic approach involves Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, Learned Optimism, Mindfulness, Positive Psychology and Gestalt. If my clients agree to do homework/grow-work, I utilize question prompts, worksheets, audios, videos, articles and books. I acknowledge you for taking the first step in your growth and empowerment by signing up for BetterHelp. And, I also know that this is a process; the work of personal growth and development is not for the faint of heart. And, here you are, so good for you! Keep going!

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Deneta Jones-Udefi

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 29795
Relationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoachingCompassion fatigue
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, executive coaching, & professional coaching. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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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Leah Ramirez

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 115837
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

With seven years of clinical experience, I’ve had the honor of walking alongside individuals navigating anxiety, depression, panic attacks, life transitions, relationship struggles, and the layered emotional journey of motherhood. I offer a grounded, compassionate approach to therapy that meets you where you are—whether you're overwhelmed by daily stress, processing unresolved emotions, or seeking clarity and confidence amid change. Many clients I support feel exhausted by the mental load they carry—managing careers, parenting, expectations, and their own inner critic. Whether you’re a woman or mother adjusting to new identities postpartum, facing fertility or hormonal challenges, or simply trying to hold everything together; an individual managing panic attacks or intense worry that disrupt daily life; or someone dealing with depression and needing help untangling the weight of sadness, shame, or numbness while working to find renewed purpose and emotional connection—I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to slow down and heal. I also work with teenagers facing academic pressures, identity exploration, peer dynamics, or family challenges. Teens find in me a supportive therapist who helps them build coping skills and express themselves authentically. For those seeking faith-based support, I provide compassionate guidance that honors your beliefs and helps you explore your mental health in connection with your faith. Additionally, I help clients navigate difficult relationships—whether with partners, family, friends, or coworkers—offering tools to set boundaries, improve communication, and heal relational wounds. If you’re looking to boost self-esteem, explore your identity, or grow personally, we will work collaboratively toward your goals. Therapy is a brave step, and you don’t have to do it alone. I invite you to reach out, and let’s begin the work of healing, growing, and moving forward together.

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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