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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Tammy Murphy

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Hello and Welcome! Congratulations on taking action! My name is Tammy Murphy. I am a Licensed Psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience! I currently have the pleasure of working with motivated clients ALL OVER California through my teletherapy practice. Since I transitioned to online therapy several years ago, I have been amazed at how effective this new platform can be! I am pleased to conclude that my clients love it too! People enjoy the convenience of having their sessions in the comfort of their own homes (with their beloved pets, a good cup of coffee, and their favorite cozy chair)! Clients also appreciate sessions on the go through the use of their mobile phones! It’s like taking time out in the middle of a busy day to reflect and reset. Dealing with anxiety, depression, and stress can be overwhelming. Therapy provides the support necessary for people to get on with the business of life so they can re-focus on what really matters! Throughout my career, I have worked in a variety of settings including private practice, county agencies, nonprofits, school districts, and even wilderness/adventure-based therapies. I have loved them all! My therapeutic approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and engaging! I utilize an array of evidence-based practices along with humor! I believe it is the brightest and bravest among us who know when it's time to reach out. I also believe that most of us have a sense of what we need to do differently to improve our lives. The real question is what gets in the way of doing it? Together we can explore barriers, learn new skills, and take small but necessary steps toward reaching your life goals. After all, the most important investment you will ever make is in YOU! I look forward to working with you! Cheers!

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Jason Wright

Offering therapy in California
License: PhD,LPCC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
26 years of experience

I am a doctoral-level, licensed professional clinical counselor (CA) and licensed professional counselor (VA), with over 30 years of experience working with adults experiencing a diverse range of challenges, from depression, anxiety, OCD and substance use; to PTSD and trauma-related issues (including psychogenic seizures and psychogenic movement disorders). I have published an article on my work with psychogenic seizures in Counseling Today, a publication of the American Counseling Association. My expertise is in providing individual psychotherapy to adults. My counseling style is person-centered, engaging, warm and collaborative. I believe the hallmark of a good therapist is to be a good listener first and foremost, and then to possess the knowledge and expertise needed to apply a broad range of holistic interventions tailored to the meet your unique needs and working style. I utilize cognitive-behavioral interventions, as well as existential/humanistic, solution-focused, motivational, and psychodynamic approaches to help you reach your goals. I have the utmost respect for anyone who is willing to help themselves - a better tomorrow and brighter horizon awaits those who are up for the task, and I am here to help you as you move towards that brighter tomorrow. I look forward to working with you!

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Margaret Reul

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

Thank you for taking the time to invest in your mental health. In today's world of ever-increasing stressors, it is more important than ever to take care of our bodies and minds. The therapeutic process can be a wonderful tool whether you are in crisis, or looking for answers and meaning in your life. There has long been stigma surrounding taking care of your mental health and I am glad that those barriers are beginning to fade away as more people become aware of the benefits therapy can provide. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worked practicing in the state of California (License Number: LCSW75171). I earned my Bachelor's Degree at UC Santa Barbara and then went on to earn my Masters in Social Work Degree at Cal State Los Angeles. I have an extensive background in helping individuals and families deal with a variety of mental health and medical concerns. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, or problems with friends, family or work, there is no problem too big or too small to discuss in therapy. I have experience helping those with Serious Mental Illness as well as those looking for a mental health tune-up. I also have experience helping first-responders, particularly in dealing with the struggles of facing COVID-19 head on. I want to help you discover what goals you want to set for yourself, and then help you achieve those goals. You are in the driver's seat to guide your life to a place that brings you self-awareness, peace and happiness. I prefer a Solution-Focused therapeutic approach that helps you quickly start the path to feeling relief from your specific stressors. I look forward to beginning our journey together. I specialize in evening and weekend sessions to help you fit therapy into your busy life.

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Stacey Sugar

Offering therapy in California
License: MS,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

“Anyone can tell you what to do, but the true ability to grow comes from understanding who you are.” In 15 years of clinical practice, I've realized that within our uniqueness, we have one thing in common: We are all constantly writing our life stories. Many of us are passive biographers, believing that our book is already written, and that the ending is set in stone. Here's the secret: Our lives are not linear, and we have the power to edit our narrative at any--and every--moment. While we cannot change our past, we can learn to change our perspective of it. Once we unlock our unconscious defenses, we gain insight about who we've become and unleash the potential to transform into who we authentically want to be. When entering any new relationship, it is perfectly healthy--and encouraged-- to take the time you need to test it out and make sure it feels right. I promise to meet you where you are, and provide you with the tools to explore yourself deeper and make transformations at your own pace. I will support you to find the strength and motivation that will allow you to be more open and committed to making the changes you desire. In our time together, we will explore the full range of your emotions, including feelings that you may not be aware of--yet! Bringing these unconscious elements into your present experience offers you a series of a-ha moments that lay the foundation for greater self-awareness and enable you to live your best life. If you're ready to dig deep, it is my honor to join you on your journey. Let's remove the barriers that are blocking you from realizing your wants, needs, and actualizing your full potential!

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Anne Holding

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a warm and caring but direct Therapist who believes in human potential. I am licensed in California and previously worked for County Behavioral Health with children, teens and adults. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Applied Behavior Analysis. My current areas of focus are in helping clients with past trauma and abuse; including ways they can improve their self-esteem, anxiety, and self-efficacy. I also enjoy helping couples improve their communication skills. I believe there is a strong body/mind connection and 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, balanced and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Sharon Meyers

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

Hi, I'm Sharon. Whether you feel lost, overwhelmed, or struggling to navigate life's challenges, I am here to help you. I offer a safe space to unpack your emotions, gain clarity, and discover a new path forward. I provide compassionate support, tailored to your needs, helping you find balance, inner strength, and a renewed sense of purpose. I'm a licensed clinical therapist with over 25 years experience specializing in Anxiety & Depression; Grief & Loss; Breakups & Divorce; Relationship Trauma; Pregnancy & Parenting and Adoption Counseling. Looking forward to connecting with you.

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Roberto Garcia II

Offering therapy in California
LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesParenting issues
6 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist certified to provide mental health services in the state of California. I have been providing mental health services for the past 5 years working with non-profit community mental health clinics, probation offices & court systems, middle school, high schools and now as a private practice clinician. Within these settings, I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, parents, teenagers, children and families at many different phases of life and personal development. When in session, I utilize trauma-informed and cultural-humility practices to ensure a sense of true respect, sensitivity and compassion for my clients' needs. Because of this, all sessions and services are tailored specifically to address the concerns of each client in their specific life settings. The modalities of therapy that I employ most regularly with my clients include: Psychodynamic, CBT, Existential, Narrative, and Solution Focused. My list of service experience includes: Couple's Counseling/Intimacy issues, Personal Self-Esteem and Decision-Making, LGBTQIA+2 issues, Faith-Based Issues, Anxiety/Depression/Stress, and much more. My hope is that my experience and expertise can be utilized to provide you a safe and secure space where you feel comfortable enough to process your concerns without fear of judgement or rejection. I want to congratulate you on taking this step in your journey to explore the best options for you. I also want to encourage you to continue this process and I hope to have the pleasure of meeting you soon!

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Guillermina Gigi Valdes-Huckabee

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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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Jennifer Mendoza

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping 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 and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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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DeAnn Bilotta Clark

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist in California with over 20 years of professional work experience. My experience includes helping clients with stress and anxiety; motivation, self esteem & confidence; and work around coping with life changes and grief/loss. 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!I

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Dr. Paul Fernandez

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflicts
30 years of experience

Hello, and thank you for choosing BetterHelp for your therapy needs. I am Dr. Paul Fernandez. I have been a licensed therapist and psychologist for more than 30+ years. I have spent my career concentrating on providing mental health services to the Latino/Hispanic community in Southern California, with a special emphasis in substance abuse, addiction recovery, anxiety/stress, depression, and anger management. In my thirty years of experience providing mental health services, I have found that I match best with other members of the Spanish-speaking Latino community. I have tailored my mental health practice to provide therapy from a spiritual, Latino perspective that concentrates on the unique cultural issues faced by the Hispanic community. However, I am open and eager to work with anyone needing help and assistance. I try to provide a very non-judgmental, safe environment where you can feel secure in discussing any issues that you feel are most important to be addressed in your life. Hola y gracias por elegir BetterHelp para sus necesidades de terapia. Soy el Dr. Pablo Fernández. He sido terapeuta y psicólogo autorizado durante más de 30 años. He pasado mi carrera concentrándome en brindar servicios de salud mental a la comunidad latina/hispana en el sur de California, con especial énfasis en abuso de sustancias, recuperación de adicciones, ansiedad/estrés, depresión y manejo de la ira. En mis treinta años de experiencia brindando servicios de salud mental, he descubierto que coincido mejor con otros miembros de la comunidad latina de habla hispana. He adaptado mi práctica de salud mental para brindar terapia desde una perspectiva latina espiritual que se concentra en los problemas culturales únicos que enfrenta la comunidad hispana. Sin embargo, estoy abierto y dispuesto a trabajar con cualquiera que necesite ayuda y asistencia. Intento brindar un entorno seguro y sin prejuicios donde usted pueda sentirse seguro al discutir cualquier tema que considere más importante abordar en su vida.

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Jennifer Pierce

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, eating disorders, 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.

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:

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.

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