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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Vani Burnette

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California with over 10 years of experience and also hold an undergraduate degree in nutrition and dietetics. I have worked with clients experiencing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and stress management. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and a variety of other client centered modalities. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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David Yadush

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LPC
LGBTSelf esteemBipolar disorderCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC/LPCC) with a strong background in providing therapeutic support, recently relocating from rural Pennsylvania to California. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling with a concentration in Drama Therapy from the California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco. As a therapist, I sometimes find it challenging to talk about myself, but I take this opportunity to model the value of self-reflection. At the core of my belief system are two critical principles: integrity and hope. I strive to bring my best self into everything I do; it’s this commitment that drew me to the field of counseling and has fueled my growth both personally and professionally. I believe that hope is the spark that ignites change, even in the face of daunting challenges or systemic barriers. My role as a therapist is to help others kindle that spark within themselves and use it to fuel their passions. I understand that reaching out for counseling can be a challenging first step, often accompanied by fears of the unknown or concerns about judgment. My approach is welcoming and non-judgmental, whether this is your first experience with therapy or you are seeking a fresh perspective. I draw upon positive practices to help individuals leverage their own strengths and creativity to achieve their goals. Creating an accepting and open environment is at the core of my practice. I work at your pace, encouraging personal growth while supporting you in recognizing your own potential and worth, even amidst the complexities of today’s world. My therapeutic focus is person-centered, aiming to help you discover and harness your strengths. I am committed to a trauma-informed, culturally aware approach, ensuring that therapy is tailored to your unique experiences and needs. I have been fortunate to have incredible experiences throughout my career in mental health, and these experiences have profoundly shaped who I am as both a person and a clinician. They are deeply infused into my ongoing efforts to advance mental health equity and integrity. If you have prior experience with therapy, I am keen to learn what has been effective for you. If past experiences have been challenging, I encourage open communication so we can tailor a strategy that truly works for you. My experience includes working with individuals in their homes, which has enhanced my adaptability to various therapeutic styles. I employ techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness practices, Solution-Focused Therapy, Psychiatric Rehabilitation, and Reality-Based approaches. My goal is to empower you with tools to manage stress, challenge negative self-beliefs, and support your journey toward a healthier, happier life.

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Vicki Alexander Hess

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseCoachingCompassion fatigue
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, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & executive and professional coaching. 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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Alexandra Gulbis

Offering therapy in California
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I am a non-judgmental and trauma-informed psychotherapist. I offer a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking healing, growth, and transformation. My practice incorporates an existential lens, recognizing the importance of exploring life's fundamental questions, meaning, and purpose. I believe in embracing existence and empowering individuals to discover their authentic selves, navigate existential challenges, and cultivate a sense of fulfillment and wholeness.

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Lynn Rogers

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. Working with patients and families living with a life altering illness is a particular passion.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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Anne Sims

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 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, Sleeping Disorders, Motivation, Self-Esteem, and Confidence, & 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!

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Rhonda Robinson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & 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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Tiffany Libby

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemADHD
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & concentration/memory. I Specialize in Narcissistic Abuse Recovery as well as the unique experiences of those who are Neurodivergent(Adhd, Autism, Audhd). 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. I truly believe the therapeutic alliance is one of the most important aspects of therapy. With the use of unconditional positive regard and empathy, I hope to encourage a feeling of self-love and acceptance. I believe that growth happens in many different areas, and I aim to create a collaborative change that affects all aspects of a person’s life. By working together, we can help identify your natural strengths, and learn simple ways to enhance your life and relationships, for results that are sustainable and long-term.

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Angela Cruz

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyIntimacy-related issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, intimacy related issues, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with 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. It takes courage to address your issues, seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support you while keeping you accountable so that we can ultimately reach your goals.

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Erica Nolasco

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

My name is Erica Nolasco, I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. My passion is helping indivduals overcome trauma, divorce, depression, anxiety, self-doubt and addiction. I welcome individuals and families to a safe nonjudgmental space with the goal of providing each client long lasting healing, personal growth and happiness. 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.

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 a BetterHelp therapist does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why do people choose to work 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, 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, such as:

  • 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 to contact in a crisis

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use the BetterHelp site. 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 of the most commonly asked questions about therapy can be found in the section 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.

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.

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 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 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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