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. Glenda Baez
My name is Glenda Baez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in San Diego, California. I have a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology and have a doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am bilingual as Spanish is my second language and frequently conduct therapy in this language. I currently own a online teletherapy private practice and work with primarily individuals and couples. I have 19 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked as an outpatient therapist in clinics, non-profit settings, doing therapy in a preschool setting, I have also done extensive utilization management and quality management work. I have extensive experience working with very young children, school age children and adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I believe in being empathetic, warm, supportive, as well as empowering my clients in finding solutions. I approach issues from a solution-focused approach and also use cognitive-behavioral techniques to help address issues and improve self-esteem, self-awareness, improve mood, and work towards moving forward with life.
Dina Velazquez
Hello, my name is Dina Velazquez and I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist currently living on the east coast. I have over ten years experience as a therapist, in both the Community Mental Health model and doing clinical assessments for a health insurance carrier. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling at Pacifica Graduate Institue in Carpinteria, CA. My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, and substance use issues. My approach is client centered while also incorporating the use of other skills including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, solution focused and some Cognitive Behavioral therapies. I feel that each of our experiences are unique, and may require different avenues to attain wellness. Also experienced in: Addictions , LGBT , Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Physical Disabilities, Coping with life changes
Trisha Taylor
Hello! Having over 13. years of experience, I enjoy being a safe, non-judgmental place for you to work through what is going through your head and your heart in your life. I have been on my psychotherapist, life coach journey for years graduating with my Master’s in Counseling in 2011. As a California licensed Marriage, Family and Child therapist (MFT), I guide and coach on assisting, learning, and growing with financial stress, family & relationships, ANY addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, abandonment, sexual identity; every person involved in an adoption, surrogacy, and physical illnesses. Through solution focused, CBT, person centered and other approaches I guide, assist, and help decrease, manage and in some cases put to rest issues. Helping is my passion. I can help. I am safe.
Vicki Hart
Hello! My name is Vicki, and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), executive coach, and management consultant. I began my career in the Neuropsychology Department at Baylor College of Medicine where I conducted cognitive tests for patients with memory impairments. Over the next 15 years, I held progressively responsible clinical and management positions in medical research centers, hospitals, and community settings, working with individuals and families. We focused on managing stress, relaxation techniques, and coping with aging parents, as well as caregiver stress, grief, and loss. I taught Stress Management for 8 years and have specialized training in palliative care, Critical Incident Stress Debriefing, and support for suicide loss survivors. My cross-cultural experience includes living and working in Japan, Singapore, and Germany for 7 years. Along the way, I had the opportunity to establish and provide counseling services to help military personnel and their families living on Army bases overseas, focusing on stress and PTSD. While living in Singapore, I provided community education, counseling, and post-hospitalization aftercare to support the social and emotional well-being of individuals and families. I am dedicated to continuous individual change and professional growth, which provides the focus of my coaching. I believe that executive coaching is the most effective approach to stimulate self-awareness, behavior change, and growth for professionals at all levels in their career. I base my coaching work on tying coaching goals to clear business outcomes. Through feedback, questions, challenges, and discernment, I help my clients to see possibilities, make plans, and take action to reach their goals. I am a published and credentialed executive coach. I love to help. And I welcome a conversation with you! We can explore your concerns, struggles, challenges, and goals - and map a path forward to more calm, peace, and fulfillment. NOTE: I work with clients in California, New Mexico and internationally.
Kathleen Pear
Hello. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have experience working in health and mental health care settings, working with adults dealing with depression, anxiety,y, loss, low self-esteem, health concerns, aging, and life-review. My therapy style is non-judgmental, supportive, and compassionate. I want therapy to be a place where you will feel comfortable and safe. I will encourage you to recognize and build on your strengths and successes to improve your emotional well-being and find purpose and joy in your life. My approach to therapy is primarily Supportive Psychotherapy and also draws from Positive Psychology, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Client-centered, and Existential approaches. My education includes a BA in Sociology from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master's in Social Work from the University of Maryland, where I concentrated on mental health. Your life experiences and past decisions have brought you to where you are today. You stand at the threshold of hope, positive change, and possibilities for the future. You have the power within to make your life better. It is not always easy, but you are not alone!
Joan Becket
Hi, my name is Joan Becket, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California, who has been licensed over 27 years. I completed my bachelor’s degree in 1982 at Minnesota State University, Mankato, majoring in Minority & Ethnic Studies and Sociology, minoring in African-American Studies, which stems from having a heart for the inner city. I have been working in South Central Los Angeles and Compton for over 30 years in a professional capacity. I have volunteered helping the homeless through my church and have also been involved in an outreach to Commercially Sexually Exploited Children. After obtaining my B.S. degree, I worked at a group home for troubled children. After encountering one of the children’s therapists, I decided I wanted to become one also. I attended California State University, Los Angeles and obtained a master’s degree in Marriage, Family, Child Counseling in 1992. I obtained my LMFT license in 1997. I have worked for a government agency for over 31 years, overseeing complex cases for abused and neglected children, tending to their clinical needs. I also have provided clinical supervision to co-workers for over 15 years, aspiring to get their license as a therapist (LCSW, LMFT or LPCC). I would describe my therapy style as informal and relaxed. I have been told that I am honest and direct, as well as compassionate and caring. I am a faith-based therapist and believe God can help us live an abundant life, if we let Him. I believe one way this may be achieved is by examining generational familial patterns, and by doing so, a person can gain insight as to how this may affect their mindset, current behavior, relationship patterns, and overall functioning. Each person’s life requires a clinical lens to examine their unique experience and how it has shaped them. (JB) Clinical approaches: My approach stems from a biblical perspective, but I utilize various theoretical orientations, such as psychodynamic, family systems therapy, structural therapy, CBT, and client centered therapy. I also interject humor, which I feel is necessary in life. We will work together to find the best approach and interventions for you. -Official Certified CBT Practitioner (cognitive behavioral therapy)
Roosevelt Jordan
Hello, my name is Roosevelt J. Jordan, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been a professional helper for more than 30 years and have worked with diverse populations and age groups. As a professional helper, I am convinced that the key to life is relating to self and others. Therefore, my first objective when establishing a professional caring relationship is to build trust. I accomplish this through empathetic and active listening. Also, I believe all individuals are spiritual beings and the whole person must be considered in order to support and help others heal and live better. The strength of my professional caring is my life experiences and intuition; not discounting my professional development. Specialties: Children disorders & behavior issues Bipolar disorder Depression Anxiety disorders Family relationships Children and family issues Obsessive Compulsive disorder Substance abuse & addiction recovery Therapeutic approach: Cognitive Behavior Therapy Rogerian/Person Centered Mindfulness Motivational interviewing Psychotherapy Psychodrama Play therapy
Dr. Deborah Wieland
I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & 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!
April Lendoiro
Hello and welcome to a sanctuary of healing and growth, where your feelings, thoughts, and life experiences are deeply acknowledged and understood. I'm April Lendoiro, a committed psychotherapist and clinical social worker with BetterHelp. My practice embraces individuals facing a spectrum of emotional and psychological challenges, from PTSD and depression to codependency, experiences of abuse, ADHD, and beyond. I believe in the inherent right of every individual to navigate their world with emotional freedom, self-empowerment, and a sense of wholeness. Our journey together is rooted in a holistic approach that honors the complexity of your human experience, aiming to illuminate paths toward healing and personal fulfillment. In our society, navigating life as someone who deeply feels the weight of their emotions and relationships can be particularly challenging. You might find yourself on a rollercoaster of emotions, struggling to find a stable sense of self or maintain healthy relationships. Perhaps you've often felt misunderstood by a world that seems to move at a pace not in tune with your inner rhythms. This is where our journey begins. As a progressive therapist, I understand the complexities of living with these challenges in today's world. My approach is grounded in empathy, social justice, and the understanding that personal healing is intrinsically linked to the broader societal context. I believe in creating a therapeutic relationship that is not only safe and non-judgmental but also actively acknowledges and works within the complexities of your lived experiences. Together, we will explore the depths of your emotions, thoughts, and relationships. We'll work hand in hand to uncover the patterns that have held you back, and I'll provide you with the tools and understanding needed for personal growth and emotional stability. Whether it's navigating the ups and downs of relationships, building a stronger sense of self, or finding your footing in times of turmoil, I am here to support you through it all. What You Can Expect: • A compassionate, understanding partnership focused on your unique journey. • A judgment-free zone where all aspects of your identity and experience are respected. • Evidence-based strategies tailored to your personal needs and goals. • An empathetic ear and a committed ally in your path to emotional wellness. Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength. If you're ready to start a transformative journey towards emotional freedom and self-discovery, I'm here to walk with you every step of the way. Together, we can build a future where you feel empowered, balanced, and truly connected to your authentic self. Let's embark on this journey together!
Bonnie Mills
I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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!
Deanne Edwards
Welcome to my practice! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been providing services in the field of mental health for 20+ years. I have experience working with those experiencing depression, anxiety and overall stress of life difficulties. I have additional experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, and am trained in trauma recovery through the Trauma Resource Institute. I work to create a safe and supportive space, free of judgement and work to enable you to connect with your strengths while offering a variety of therapeutic approaches to aid you in living into your best self. Thank you for considering my practice and if this feels like a good fit for you, please feel free to reach out. Warmly, Deanne
Rachel Bivens
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, my mission is to educate and empower individuals and families. My approach emphasizes advocacy, communication, and personal engagement, recognizing the unique genetic and cultural differences of each family, couple, child, and individual. My aim is to build enduring relationships within the community, families, couples, caregivers, parents, children, and on a personal level. I seize every chance to leverage my expertise for a positive social impact. My objective is to support families, couples, children, and individuals in overcoming their challenges, empowering them to enact lasting changes, and contributing to a thriving, productive, safe, and healthy community through one-on-one engagement. I am a firm advocate of holistic self-improvement, believing in the necessity of intentional daily life and self-betterment. My role involves equipping and empowering communities, families, couples, parents, caregivers, children, and individuals with the knowledge and skills to strengthen interpersonal relationships and pursue self-actualization in their personal lives, within the community, their families, as caregivers, parents, and children, using an educational, preventive, and strength-based approach. With over a decade of experience aiding clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, and parenting concerns, I hold the conviction that you are the master of your narrative and possess numerous strengths that will aid you in surmounting your challenges. Initiating therapy requires bravery, and I commend you for taking that first step. Personally, I identify primarily as an African American woman with deep spiritual beliefs, a mother of nine, and a Ya-Ya (grandmother) of seven. My life experiences, professional background, and education have equipped me to actively engage in advocacy, empowerment, and self-sufficiency for communities, families, caregivers, parents, and children, perpetuating a cycle of change to make a difference in the world.
Aimee Severe
I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I am an LGBTQ ally therapist. 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!
Tonii Cardoza
I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.
Megan Hurtado
I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, 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 therapists in California support you?
Therapists in California 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 California, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for licensed professionals in California 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 does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.
Why are many residents in the state of California working 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 in California, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.
Mental health counselors in California support clients with varying issues, which can include:
- 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
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. 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 featur
- 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 commonly asked questions can be found 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.
How do I know if I should get a therapist?
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 in California can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.
Does insurance cover 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 safe?
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.
Popular cities in California
- Los Angeles, CA
- San Diego, CA
- San Jose, CA
- San Francisco, CA
- Fresno, CA
- Sacramento, CA
- Long Beach, CA
- Oakland, CA
- Bakersfield, CA
- Anaheim, CA
- Santa Ana, CA
- Riverside, CA
Find your state
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming