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.

This is Jennifer Baumgardner's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Baumgardner

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

Life can be full of challenges, and there are times when working with an understanding counselor can really help you through those tough times. I want to be here to help you if you are going through one of those times right now. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 10 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds, with a wide range of ages, and with many different concerns. I have experience with teens, veterans, and adults in all stages of life. I have worked with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, life transitions, grief, infertility and pregnancy loss, and maternal mental health. My counseling style is warm, supportive, and client-centered. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach largely combines cognitive-behavioral and humanistic counseling, but I also pull from other theoretical models as needed. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am here to help you get what you want out of the counseling experience. It takes courage to reach out for help and to make changes in your life. If you are ready to take the first step and start that journey, I am here to help. I look forward to working with you!

This is Katina Boulai's avatar and link to their profile

Katina Boulai

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

My name is Katina Boulai and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I know that seeking help can be a difficult choice but you are not alone. I have many years experience working with families, couples, and individuals using a relational, cognitive behavioral therapy and family systems approach. I have experience with diverse populations with issues relating to depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, parenting, divorce, grief, life transitions, and relationship issues. I also worked with the adult homeless community and teens experiencing issues with addiction. My approach is respectful and empathetic working in the here and now based on my client's need. Taking this step is not always easy but very helpful in order to develop better ways of dealing with day-to-day struggles. Having someone with whom you can safely and privately discuss your concerns creates an opportunity to achieve a better quality of life. I use a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each client. What we discuss is confidential except if there are any concerns that you may be a danger to yourself or others. My office hours are Monday-Thursday 6:00-8:00 P.M and I typically respond to messages within 24 hours or sooner if possible.

This is Dr. Robert Cipriano Jr's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Robert Cipriano Jr

Offering therapy in California
License: Psy.D.,ABPP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
20 years of experience

Dr. Robert J. Cipriano Jr. has been working with the South Florida community as a licensed psychologist for 20 years. Dr. Cipriano is currently a Florida , California, & North Carolina Licensed Psychologist. He is board certified in Police and Public Safety Psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) and for the majority of his experience practices cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and more recently within the past two years has acquiesced to providing EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy to clientele experiencing trauma based symptoms. Dr. Cipriano has provided therapeutic and an array of clinical services to both the Trauma-Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and inpatient behavioral health units at one of the largest Trauma hospitals in northern Miami-Dade County and has provided a number of critical incident stress debriefings (CISD) for a variety of staff. Dr. Cipriano has handled well over a 200 CISDs in his professional career. He assisted one of the largest metropolitan police departments in the southeast part of the United States in gaining insight and managing individuals who suffered from severe mental illness and who were in crisis as a "in- house" staff psychologist assigned to a Crisis Negotiation Team. He provided critical support to the crisis negotiation team when they were faced with crisis situations, hostages, career criminals, and barricaded subjects who posed a threat for police and the community at large. Dr. Cipriano has also assisted in providing crucial therapeutic support to the victims and victim's families of the school shooting in Parkland, FL along with the first responders affected by & connected to the critical incident. Dr. Cipriano is also the psychological supervisor for a major metropolitan police department, developing the program from infancy, and expanding the wellness concept for public safety sworn and civilian professionals. Dr. Cipriano is highly engaged in wellness and has written several articles on wellness and the importance of the continuity of wellness to other facets of one's life. Dr. Cipriano also offers expert training in understanding the psychological dynamics and warning signs of active shooters, school shooters, school place violence, and bully behavior. Dr. Cipriano has a strong interest in this area and has developed a clinical curriculum to target, intervene, and potentially prevent such acts along this specific spectrum of aggression. His knowledge, experience, and expertise will benefit clinicians, educational institutions, administrators, public safety professionals, and the private sector on a local, state, and national level.

This is Miguel garcia's avatar and link to their profile

Miguel garcia

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & coping with grief and 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.

This is Pamela Collins's avatar and link to their profile

Pamela Collins

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

I am licensed in California with 28 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 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.

This is Bailey Bronson's avatar and link to their profile

Bailey Bronson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
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, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

This is Cassandra Jimenez's avatar and link to their profile

Cassandra Jimenez

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionADHD
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, & concentration, memory. I also have experience working with focus (adhd). 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.

This is Ariana Allgeier's avatar and link to their profile

Ariana Allgeier

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Amy Welsch's avatar and link to their profile

Amy Welsch

Offering therapy in California
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology. I value therapy as being a collaborative process and strive to create a warm, welcoming and non-judgmental environment for my clients. I use a holistic approach and aim to be culturally sensitive, catering to each individuals’ unique worldview. Through therapy, my goal is to help clients feel empowered and validated so they can increase self-efficacy, decrease problematic symptoms, gain insight and self-awareness and learn how to heal in order to have a more positive life experience. I use a strengths- based, person centered approach. I am interested in helping people who struggle with anxiety, grief, depression, self-esteem issues, emotional disturbances (including anger management concerns), and/or are trying to cope with situational life stressors. I use a blend of compassion-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy as well as a solution focused model where appropriate. I also have years of experience working with adults with severe and persistent mental health disorders.

This is Jehalin Anandam's avatar and link to their profile

Jehalin Anandam

Offering therapy in California
License: MA, LPC, RPT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefAnger managementDepression
15 years of experience

Hi my name is Jehalin, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist with 13 years of experience working with adults, children, adolescents, and families from various walks of life. I have experience with helping people who are experiencing various hardships in life and difficulty adjusting, as well as people experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, mood disorders, etc. I am known for being a good listener, caring, accepting, and compassionate, regardless of the challenges one might be experiencing. The therapeutic approaches I use is cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused, client centered, play therapy, reality therapy, mindfulness, and more. My desire is to help you achieve your goals by providing a safe, authentic, and compassionate clinical setting with an individualized therapy experience. Please let me know how I may assist.

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.
Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist