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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Dr. syma ralston

Offering therapy in California
License: PsyD,HSPP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

I am an experienced clinical psychologist who has worked with individual adults of all ages, with couples and with families. I have been a director of training and have educated doctoral level interns. I have supervised mental health professionals, worked as director of the Counseling Center at Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley, as Chief Clinician at Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley, and as a Supervising Psychologist at Walter Reed Medical Center. I have had a private practice throughout my career. I am especially interested in providing couples counseling and working with individuals who have have suffered trauma, whether in childhood or adulthood, whether as civilians or while in the military. I am open to treating people of all cultures, religions , races and sexual orientations. I use whichever approach works best for my clients, helping them achieve their goals.

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Dr. Courtney Corrado

Offering therapy in California
License: Psy.D
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

Hello, I’m Dr. Corrado, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California with over 11 years of experience. I hold a Master’s degree in Forensic Psychology and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). My clinical experience spans a variety of settings, including community mental health centers, state hospitals, correctional facilities, and private practice, with a primary focus on supporting adults across the lifespan. My therapeutic approach is rooted in an existential framework, enriched by elements of humanistic and positive psychology. I prioritize cultivating a strong, authentic therapeutic relationship by meeting clients where they are and working at a pace that feels comfortable for them. My practice is individualized and culturally sensitive, offering a nonjudgmental, warm, and supportive environment. My goal is to help clients find meaning, connection, and purpose while gaining insight into relational and behavioral patterns that may be holding them back from living a fulfilled and authentic life. I empower clients by exploring their choices and responsibilities, amplifying their voice, and fostering self-awareness, self-understanding, self-respect, and intrinsic motivation. Taking a holistic approach, I integrate the mind, body, cultural influences, emotions, and social factors into therapy. I also embrace the healing power of humor, which can create openness and deepen connection in the therapeutic space. Outside of my professional work, I enjoy traveling, scuba diving, reading, baking, and spending time with friends and family. I’m an animal lover and deeply appreciate their incredible healing presence. Beginning therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when life feels unmanageable. Reaching out for support is a courageous step, and you don’t have to take it alone—I’m here to help. Whether this is your first experience with therapy or part of your ongoing journey of self-discovery, I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your challenges with support and understanding. Together, we’ll work toward greater clarity, connection, and a more fulfilling life. If you're ready to create meaningful and lasting change, let’s take this step forward together!

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Tracy Flug

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
23 years of experience

Self care is important and it is time to put YOU first! Working as a team we will address the challenges that you currently face. Just by looking for a new therapist, you have already proven that you have the motivation to change and improve your life. It's time to be seen and heard. You matter! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California with 23 years of experience specializing in the the field of health. I mainly work with adults and seniors. I specialize in treating loss, grief, end-of-life issues, those with traumatic hospitalizations, chronic illnesses, emotional/physical/sexual trauma, and PTSD. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Grief Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. I believe in taking a strengths-based, client centered approach to therapy. My style is to provide a judgment-free space for you with complete honesty, integrity, and transparency on my part. Please feel free reach out to me if it seems like we would be a good fit.

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Deanna Bennet Ridgway

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf 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 and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Monica Gonzalez

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, 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. 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 and empower you in that journey.

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VaJezatha Payne

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in assisting clients with life stressors, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, low/no motivation, poor self-esteem and low/no confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges that you are facing. 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. Welcome to behavioral health, where therapy and healing begin.

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Korina Echeverria

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
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, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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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Donna Priano-English

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, eating disorders, 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.

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Charletta Erb

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemADHD
15 years of experience

I love working with couples as well as individuals interested in hike or nature-based therapy. From our very first session you will take home practical tools for both communication and relaxation. In moments of stress, you will have less blaming ways to express what you need to keep things from escalating. For those times when you do lose your cool, you will know more about calming yourself down before saying something you regret. I'll help you learn to be kinder to yourself, to be aware of how you talk to yourself. For starters, don't believe everything you think! I'm a spunky woman with playful humor, someone who understands and who has a lot of compassion. As a relationship therapist, I focus on relationship dynamics and systems in daily life. I will show you insights from brain science about conflicted relationships.

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Melanie Noxon

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional work experience. The clients I have worked with faced difficulties such as stress, anxiety, trauma, recovering from abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, depression, building motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with clients that live or work in difficult environments. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment in session where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I believe that it takes courage to take the first steps towards creating changes in your life, and to share one's deepest thoughts and life experiences with a therapist. My main treatment approaches are centered around CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and MCBT (Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). I look forward to supporting you in your journey!

How can a counselor support you?

Therapists can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.

Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 32,349,851 people live in CA, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for local licensed professionals may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.  

The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.

Please note that a BetterHelp therapist does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor?

People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

The mental health therapists in California support clients with varying issues through therapy, such as:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression or depressive conditions
  • Adjustment issues
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma
  • Relationship conflicts and concerns

Finding a therapist that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.

If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.

Emergency services to contact in a crisis

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use the BetterHelp site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

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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