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.

Dr. James Chavers
It is by suffering that human beings become angels. – Victor Hugo Hello, my name is James Chavers. Thank you for taking the time to read my counselor profile. I am a clinical psychologist licensed and living in California. I earned my masters and doctorate in clinical psychology at Antioch University Santa Barbara. I have worked and trained in locked settings (jails and prisons), community health clinics, and colleges and universities for 9 years. I have worked with older adults living with HIV, addiction, and life course diseases, inmates of all genders preparing to transition out of locked settings, and students from 18-50+ navigating the difficulties of college life. Collaborating with my patients, we have worked through relationship, substance abuse, family, gender, sexuality, sexual assault, mood, and trauma issues, to name a few. My clients and I have worked together using a variety of modalities including Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Motivational Interviewing, and Client-centered Therapy. Incorporating Humanistic philosophies in my work, I believe that every person is deserving of love and respect. Each person is the expert of their own life. My purpose as a therapist is to support, suggest, and succor as needed. Finding the right counselor is akin to meeting a great friend. You want someone in your life who accepts you unconditionally, but is not afraid to call you out when you do something stupid. This friend takes the time to listen carefully to what’s going on, and then if you like, shares some insight. This friend is solidly in your corner and makes you feel like you are the most important person in the room. This friend stands by you and walks by your side as you work through your challenges. I have been blessed to have people like that in my life. If you give me the privilege, I would like to pay those experiences forward…to you. James Chavers PSY32025 Pronouns: He, him, his

Ryan Glathar
Welcome! Thank you for taking the time to stop by and read my profile. I believe that each of us have the ability and are deserving of living full, happy and healthy lives, however so many of us cannot say our lives fit that description. Together I feel we can identify what is creating the roadblocks to this and work on becoming the best version of yourself. In order for a relationship to be successful those people in that relationship need to establish trust. You are giving me the privilege of getting to know you and I want to make sure that we build our therapeutic relationship on trust and respect. I have over 15 years experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns such as but not limited to: depression, relationship issues, self-esteem/self-worth, parenting and domestic violence. I do not believe there is a one size fits all approach when working with clients so I like to try various approaches to see what is best suited for that individual. A few approaches that I do use, but again not limited to are cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, solution-focused and motivational interviewing. Life can be a roller coaster. I look forward to navigating the ups and downs with you so that you can begin to make the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take the first step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Geoffrey Faustman
I offer a direct, active, goal-oriented approach in helping you find relief from the anxiety, anger, depression, shame, or whatever it is that leaves you feeling stuck. By taking a look at 1) What are you trying to achieve? 2) What are you trying to preserve? 3) What are you trying to avoid? and 4) What are you trying to eliminate? we can highlight the sometimes-complex interaction among your thoughts, decisions, actions and outcomes. Knowing yourself, making use of your personal strengths & your tools at hand while allowing your values guide you, you can propel yourself toward becoming the best, most fulfilled version of yourself. I use a combination of evidence-based treatments tailored to suit your strengths to overcome your core fears and reach your goals. These include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which can help with different kinds of problems and degrees of suffering. I don’t want you in therapy forever. I want you to reach your goals, and live your life to the fullest.

Regina Phelps
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California. I have been working in the social services field for approximately 25 years, and have been a licensed therapist since 2012. I have experience conducting individual, couples and group therapy, in both residential and outpatient settings. Clients I see have presented with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, relationship and parenting issues, grief/loss, addiction, trauma, and dealing with life’s transitions. My approach to therapy is person/client centered in nature, meaning that I start new therapeutic relationships by making every effort to meet each person "where they are" and to serve as a support for each individual who is progressing through their own unique process of self-discovery and personal growth. In my work with clients, I use some of the leading psychological modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy. I will also use elements of Narrative, Strategic, and Family Systems approaches as appropriate. Clinical Approaches: • Solution Focused Therapy • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) • Motivational Interviewing • Twelve Step support • Psychodynamic Interventions SPECIALTIES • Relationship issues • Stress and Anxiety • Addictions and Codependency • Grief and Loss • Transitions/Life changes Also experienced in: • Parenting issues • Self-esteem • Work w/ Military/Veterans/First Responders My Educational Credentials include: - Licensed by the State of California, Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) - California State University, Fresno Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology - Trained in Psychological First Aid I believe in creating a space where we can have difficult conversations, work on resolving issues and collaborate on treatment plans that are tailored to your personal needs and experiences. I appreciate the courage and motivation needed to reach out for additional support, and I want to thank you for trusting me to assist as you work through your personal challenges. I look forward to working with you!

Toppacio Rodriguez
Hi there, my name is Toppacio Rodriguez but you can call me Topy, and my pronouns are she/her (ella/ellas). I am bilingual and can provide support in English and in Spanish. I want to steal a moment to write ‘thank you’ for taking the time to be here. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with a variety of people, from different economic statuses, ethnicities, cultures, races, genders and sexual orientations. I enjoy working on a systemic level with kids, teens, adults and couples. This means that we would work on the whole self and nurture the different aspects in your life. The modalities that I use come from an array of therapeutic theories. I am certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP). I have worked with children who have atypical brains, such as, children on the Autism Spectrum Disorder and children who have Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. I have worked with survivors of sexual assault (children to adults) and of domestic violence. 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.

Robert McAlister
I am licensed in California with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder. 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.

Shuwen (Sylvia) Huang
I am licensed in California with over 15 years of professional work experience in offering client centered approaches to address issues including depression, anxiety, parenting issues, coping with illness, grief, and trauma. I have experience working in trauma hospital acute care and emergency department settings. I am also a registered nurse dedicated in providing individualized patient care through effective education and counseling. My experience has taught me that one of the most important aspect of counseling is the connection and comfort you feel with the person you choose to share your personal struggles. I believe we can all grow through challenging experiences by increasing our self-awareness. We all possess resilience and strength to achieve healing and personal growth. Sometimes another person, one who isn't in our immediate circle, can offer a perspective or additional support, that give us insights on a difficult situation when we feel stuck. It would be my privilege to be that person for you. We all want to be able to share our personal truths and be accepted and understood. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming what you are going through. I look forward to tailoring my approach to meet your specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I practice through a lens of cultural humility and strive to create a welcoming therapeutic space. My hope is for clients to leave session feeling more grounded than when they arrived. I am here to support you in that process of becoming the best version of yourself.

Margaret "Maggie" Reid
Hi, I’m Maggie! I’m an Expressive Arts Therapist. I work in the same way a typical therapist would work, exploring relationships, expressing emotions, working on social skills, discovering healthy coping skills, really any roadblock to being your very best self. But in my practice, I also use the arts in our therapeutic journey. This can include music, visual art, movement, magic, writing, and beyond. My practice is truly client-centered. Everyone has their own unique situation, and my goal is to tailor our work to your very personal needs.

Lynaia Freund
I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I am Certified in EMDR, a highly researched and, highly respected form of psychotherapy. I have advanced training in the use of "EMDR/Flash", an EMDR therapy technique that can help you to desensitize difficult or painful thoughts, emotions or experiences. I have helped many people recover from trauma, childhood abuse, cope with grief and loss, stress, panic and anxiety using my expertise in EMDR to help people unfreeze or get un-stuck so they can move forward enabling them make the changes they desire to improve their life. I can help you with issues of motivation, self esteem, and self confidence, as well. I also have extensive training and expertise plus many years of experience working with addiction recovery in both on a medical rehab unit and as a therapist in private practice. I spent 14 years as a Clinical Hospital Chaplain at a Major Trauma Center in Southern California. I also have extensive training and years of experience integrating spirituality and psychotherapy. I work with my clients to create an open, safe and compassionate environment where thoughts, feelings and challenges can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage! I understand that and I am proud of you for getting started! Good for you!

Roderic Quinto
Greetings, my name is Roderic “Neil” Quinto. I seek to meet you where you are, and walk alongside you in your journey of growth. Whether you’re navigating through challenges of everyday life, facing major crisis, strengthening a relationship, or simply seeking personal growth, I am here to support you. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology from Vanguard University of Southern California. In addition to individual counseling, my work as a therapist has also included work with a residential treatment facility focusing on the education and mental health of youth with psychological and behavioral needs. My experiences in the corporate business world, school setting, and as a husband and father contribute to my practical and compassionate approach to counseling. Prior to becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist, I worked in the corporate world as an I.T. Project Manager/Analyst for over 10 years. I am married with two young children, and can relate to the struggles that individuals, couples, and families face. As a therapist, I conceptualize problems through various modalities. I do not believe that one size fits all. My primary focus is to meet clients where they are, and walk alongside them in their journey.
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:
- 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 feature
- 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 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.
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