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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Hsiao-Chieh Chiu

Offering therapy in California
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

More than 9 years of providing clinical therapy to individuals, couples, families, and children. Licensed and experienced. Specializations: Relationships, couples counseling, motivation and confidence, self-esteem, depression/anxiety, grief, and identity counseling. My private practice is located in Brea, California. Clinical Experiences, Publications, Awards, and Credentials: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) Published writer for Family Process- Clinical journal for practitioners Published writer for Journal of Feminist Family Therapy Presenter at the American Family Therapy Academy in 2009 & 2010 My own private practice in Brea, CA Crittenton Services for Children and Family (residential setting and foster family) Pepperdine Community Counseling Center (outpatient mental health) Village of Hope, Orange County Rescue Mission (residential setting) Appointed therapist for running a Substance Abuse/Misuse Group at Orange County Rescue Mission Appointed therapist for running a Domestic Violence Group at Orange County Rescue Mission City of Diamond Bar- Senior Grief Group Received the President's Volunteer Service Award from the Corporation for National & Community Service in 2012 Therapy centers on Recovery-Oriented approaches (Narrative Therapy & Post Modern) More about Myself: I strive to be warm, respectful, and compassionate in conversations. My practice embraces recovery-oriented approaches, in which people are not the problem, problems are the problems. This is a non-blaming, non-shaming view that opens the possibility to distance yourself from the problems you're experiencing, regain a sense of control and agency back from the problems, live in empowering ways, and finally, step closer to your hopes and dreams. I have had experience working with folks from all walks of life with a wide range of concerns, and have been humbled by people's unwavering resiliency in the face of adversity. I center my work around tapping into the uniqueness and competencies of individuals, by collaborating and walking alongside of their hopes and dreams, as well as developing steady grounds to stand on in the midst of turmoil. There is great respect given to each person's struggles and diverse backgrounds, and an aspiration to discover and sustain values and wisdom based on one's lived experiences. I am passionate about what I do. I genuinely believe a good therapist is not someone who claims to understand, but someone who always tries his/her best to understand. To better personal growth and ensure the highest quality of care, I continue to learn from the folks I meet with and from my professional field, by reading, conversing, writing, and reflecting. I also believe in giving-back endeavors. Thus I devote a fair amount of time volunteering and providing counseling services to underprivileged members in local communities. More details about Recovery-Oriented approaches: I have extensive training and clinical experience in practicing Narrative and Post Modern Therapy, which focus on the meaning in which one constructs one's life, the stories that influenced these constructions, and the socio-cultural-political forces that help shape our identities. Narrative Therapy holds the premise that our identities are informed by narratives, whether uniquely personal (e.g., the stories that we know and tell about ourselves and the stories that others know and tell about us) or culturally influenced (e.g., dominant cultural ideas about who we are and our worthiness). Depending on the kinds of identity conclusions we embrace, they can either empower or subjugate our sense of who we are. I believe that people are "multi-storied" and that the emergence of problems reflect people's distanced relationship with their own knowledge, skills, and commitments. Special attention is devoted to help folks in regaining their life from problems and developing "richer knowings" of themselves, in addition to deconstructing dominant discourses that may have undermined people's abilities, efforts, and values. This is a strength-based, meaning-based, and active approach that lay the foundation for living in empowering ways and weaving the threads of agentive possibilities.

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Sabrina Lucas

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
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, relationship issues, anger management, and 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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Sloane Harris

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Georgia with 8 years of direct counseling experience and over 19 years of being in the helping profession. I enjoy helping people adjust to new life transitions such as parenthood, school issues, work/life balance, coping with a medical diagnosis, facing infertility, grief and loss, and trauma. 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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Jessica Hanson

Offering therapy in California
License: MSSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
10 years of experience

Hello and welcome! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe in a strength based approach to personal healing and growth. As a therapist, I respect the opportunity to work with individuals and families struggling with grief and loss by providing a safe place to share, learn and heal. I foster empathy and acceptance as patients and families address life changing diagnoses and care needs. With over ten years of experience providing support to individuals and caregivers struggling with dementia and mood related issues, I utilize an integrated approach including, but not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Psychotherapy. I seek to empower individuals and families with the knowledge and tools they need to promote dignity and wellness. Finally, my background in grief and loss counseling has also prepared me to address the unrecognized and often untreated issues associated with pet loss, specifically the complicated and overwhelming emotions associated with chronic and terminal care of a pet, related end of life issues, and the emotionally challenging process of pet surrender. Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. Your insight and willingness to seek support is the first step toward healing and growth. I wish you the best on your journey!

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Christina Handal

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I am excited about the opportunity to continue my work with individuals, couples, families and children. I approach my work with respect, cultural awareness and a strong belief in self-empowerment. Our time together will be supportive, collaborative, focused and goal driven. Although I am continually learning and searching for what works, Reality Therapy/Choice Theory is my primary theoretical approach. I believe my purpose is to help clients discover, clarify and maximize their potential for healing/growth. I am a strong believer in the healing power of good relationships, so my work is framed by the intent to help folks get along better with the important people in their lives.

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Bailey Campbell

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with five years of experience working as a psychotherapist, with extensive experience in crisis work. I have worked with clients with a wide range of challenges, including depression, self harm, suicidal ideation, anxiety, auditory and visual hallucinations, relationship issues, parenting problems, Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical and sexual trauma or emotional abuse. I have spent the last 5 years working with adults, children and adolescents. My counseling style is relaxed, inviting and always transparent. I understand that making the decision to come to therapy can sometimes feel scary and overwhelming, I will always start where you are at, and never assume what you need. I want our time together to feel like team work, as we both work together to get you where you want to be. I come from a psychodynamic background, while pulling in different interventions from techniques ranging from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapist (DBT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)/Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Person-Centered Therapy, Brief Goal Directed Therapy, Short Term Psychodynamic Therapy, and Trauma Focused-CBT. I will work with you to find the best technique or techniques which fit your needs best! The fact that you are here, means you have done the hardest part, which is asking for support and finally taking the leap into therapy. I am so excited to have the opportunity to work with you and work together to make changes, one step at a time!

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Alexandria Hagler

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Kathleen Jansen

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

Hi there, I'm Kathleen! Hello! I’m Katie, an LMFT with a passion for helping individuals navigate their personal journeys. I have spent the last 11 years working as a therapist to do just that. When I'm not practicing therapy, I'm reading, playing video games, attending my kids' activities, and going on adventures with my family. My approach My approach is collaborative and tailored to each person’s unique needs, utilizing techniques from CBT, DBT, Somatic Therapy, EMDR, Brain spotting, aggression replacement therapy, and person-centered therapy. I’m here to listen, support, and empower you as we work together toward your goals. I look forward to meeting you! My focus I studied at the University of Houston for my undergrad in Anthropology and the University of Houston Clear Lake for my Master's degree in Counseling. I specialize in trauma, codependency, adolescent issues, behavioral modification, self-harm, relationship issues, and autism. I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment for my clients. However, I’m open to working with anyone who is looking to better understand themselves and unlock their potential. My communication style I listen to my clients, engage honestly, and tell them the things they need to hear. Every therapy relationship is different and every person is different - together we will come up with an approach that is feasible and maintainable to support your growth. My journey to mental healthcare I had my own challenges as a teen and young adult that led me to need help. I do not think I would be where I am today without the support of my therapist during those dark times. I want to help others not have to make the same mistakes I did and be able to find their light. My goals for you Together we look at where you want to be and what the barriers are stopping you from getting there; then we find ways to remove or go around those barriers by setting small manageable goals. My first session with you Our first session will be a getting-to-know-you session where I gather a brief history of your challenges and start learning about you.

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Patricia Fox

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, 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. 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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Alyson Filippa

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesParenting issues
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I am a mother of three, I am divorced and I am a cancer survivor. I believe we all have what we need inside of us to overcome our challenges and I am honored to be able to help my clients find their own innate, inner healer. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & intimacy related issues. I also have experience working with parenting and family issues. I enjoy working with people who are spiritually minded and are looking to find a deeper sense of meaning, connection and purpose in their lives. Welcome!

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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