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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Okechuku Nwanganga

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepression
10 years of experience

My name is Robert and I would be honored to be your Therapist. I would like to tell you about myself. I have been a Social Worker for the past 20 years and I have worked with a lot of different people in a variety of situations. I am working on a new schedule. My schedule is 6am to 2:00 pm on Mondays and Wednesdays, 6 am to 11 am then 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm Tuesdays and Thursdays as well as Sundays from 1pm to 8 pm Sundays Pacific Standard Time. I am very comfortable conducting therapy via video or phone but not Live chat The most important thing I need you to know about me and how I work is that I believe Social Work to be a calling and I truly believe in the power of Therapy to change lives. I believe that talking about the things that hurt us provides us with the power to overcome them. I am more interested in your strengths than your diagnoses. I am more interested in empowering you to make your own decisions than I am in you doing what is “right.” Regarding therapy, I am not bound to any one theoretical approach. I tend to utilize a variety of approaches in therapy because I want to provide you with a personalized therapeutic experience. I need you to know that I will only focus on what you think is important. I will not push you to share anything that you are not comfortable sharing but I will ask you questions about things I think are important to provide insight into the situation at hand. I will always be honest with you in every situation and I will continue to exhibit compassion and empathy towards your situation. One of my favorite sayings regarding therapy is that “It matters because it matters to you.” I look forward to working with you.

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Tina Logan

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementADHD
12 years of experience

Tina A Logan Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT Verified by Psychology Today I provide video and phone sessions. Worries, nervousness and anxiety can be over-whelming. Uncertainty, during unknown times can make us anxious and depressed. I’m here to help. I am blessed to have the opportunity to help many of you during these unprecedented times. I am interactive, giving you suggestions, options, tools and hope for your future. My style is relaxed, supportive, encouraging, compassionate, caring and positive. I am non-judgmental and culturally diverse. I have experience working with children, families, adults and couples. I specialize with trauma, grief & loss, relationship issues & personal, work, parenting, family and friends. Most recently, I am working with a mom that is challenged in working from home while caring for children and home. I’ve worked with several different diagnosis and issues. I utilize the cognitive- behavioral, evidence based therapeutic approach to manage & teach behaviors and new skills. I speak, write and understand some Spanish. I would like the opportunity to meet with you and begin to understand your needs. I look forward to our first session, in your journey to a new chapter that we will write together. T

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Dr. Devora Lockton

Offering therapy in California
License: Ph.D
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
40 years of experience

I am a psychologist, licensed in California with over 40 years of experience. I have worked with people with a wide range of concerns and challenges including, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues, and concerns of aging , and partner loss. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I combine cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic therapy along with common sense and work to assist your own unique and specific needs. It takes courage to acknowledge that you can use some help in facing your concerns. I am here to support and empower you to do so.

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Timothy Cunningham

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSleeping disordersSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

My therapeutic approach aims to meet my clients where they are at with what they are struggling with. Whether that is stress, depression, anxiety, sleep related issues or motivation, the goal is improvement and tools to manage these issues. I look to provide support with the situations that are currently affecting client’s health and progress towards a better life and more positive future. I am trained in art therapy techniques as well as sleep healthcare. I excel in finding personal strengths, support and strategies to manage life’s difficulties in a non-judgmental, safe space. Your health is important, I hope to become a part of your journey towards the self you want to be.

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Minerva Guzman

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
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, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and 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!

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Sonia Diaz

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Hello, my name is Sonia Díaz, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist working with clients all over California via telehealth. It is my passion to support others as they seek to better their lives and bring about wellness in many different areas. My approach is holistic in nature and client-centered. In this way, we can incorporate an integrative and humanistic approach that respects, validates, and supports your individual goals. I work with very diverse groups of people, whether ethnically, racially, gender, age, sexual identity, relationship or family style, etc. This perspective and experience have been the key to allowing me to support individuals on their journey, be that with a life transition, loss, trauma, systemic, relational, or many other personal challenges we face. Listening to your experiences and needs, understanding their specific context and the unique meanings they hold in your life is a key part of building our therapeutic alliance. Are you ready to get started? I am. After decades as a teacher and then a school counselor, I expanded my reach as a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. Helping people individually grew naturally from my previous roles... wanting to be able to provide more one-on-one time to someone in need spoke to me, and I continue to be honored and humbled with each and every session. As an experienced counselor and therapist, I offer a safe space to explore issues that are important to you and yours (past, present, and future). Being heard, understood, and seen are some of the most important experiences in our lives. I offer empathy and compassion for your journey as well as support and assistance as you continue to define and move toward increased wellness in all areas. What next? Well, I am looking so forward to hearing from you, meeting you, and ultimately working together to support your goals. Be they personal, relational, familial, or within another group or system.

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April Shields

Offering therapy in California
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
15 years of experience

Are you looking for support in removing what is blocking you from loving who you are, doing what you love, and connecting with the people you love? I can help you develop more positive relationships and become more aware of what might be stopping you from moving forward in your personal and professional life. I provide an empathic environment that opens the way for self-discovery. I hope that you will feel supported and more confident as you take steps toward living a life you feel passionate about. I approach therapy as a collaborative process, working with each client to fully realize their own goals, desires, needs, path, etc. This varies from client to client as I meet each individual where they are and base each contact on their individual needs. I strive to communicate with clients in a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate way. I also use somatic approaches such as guided meditation and breathwork. My number one goal for all of my clients is to help them get to a place of more self-trust, self-compassion, and self-love. Wouldn't it feel amazing to trust yourself so much that you don't constantly second guess yourself, over-analyze, or question every decision you make?

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Daniel "Dan" Bjierke

Offering therapy in California
LGBTRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoaching
32 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I am a certified applied positive psychology specialist. 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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Amy Martinez

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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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Leah Brooks

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf 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, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with 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 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 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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