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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Lisa Lee-Briggs

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy related issues, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I believe that everybody has their own answers but there are times in our lives when we need assistance in discovering those answers. I take a straightforward approach to that exploration and help people advance in life. I specialize in couple's and family communication where assigning blame is replaced with a clearer understanding of each person and more effective ways to convey meaning. All relationships can be repaired if all members are willing to work towards that goal. I use a wide range of techniques from Cognitive Behavior Therapy to Gestalt techniques as well as a mix of additional therapies specifically suited to the client and the situation. I will find the techniques that fit with you!

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Henna Brar

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping 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, coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, & 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!

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Andrea Blatchley

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,MFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with almost 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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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Timothy Cunningham

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSleeping disordersSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

My therapeutic approach aims to meet my clients where they are at with what they are struggling with. Whether that is stress, depression, anxiety, sleep related issues or motivation, the goal is improvement and tools to manage these issues. I look to provide support with the situations that are currently affecting client’s health and progress towards a better life and more positive future. I am trained in art therapy techniques as well as sleep healthcare. I excel in finding personal strengths, support and strategies to manage life’s difficulties in a non-judgmental, safe space. Your health is important, I hope to become a part of your journey towards the self you want to be.

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BreeAnne Williams

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed clinical social worker in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience providing therapy to clients with concerns in regard to anxiety, depression, trauma, and life stressors. 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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Jade Rosado

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

Hello, my name is Jade Rosado, LCSW and I am licensed therapist in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I offer brief, solution-focused therapy, designed to help you reach your personal goals during life's challenging seasons. Because of the short term model approach that I provide, I often find that I am good fit for those who have been referred by EAP or for those who want to work towards a small measurable goal. I believe therapy is a partnership that empowers you to overcome adversity and build on your strengths. My style is warm, compassionate and with a touch of humor. I believe in treating people with respect and understanding, and providing a space where you can be your authentic self. It takes courage to take these first steps and reach out for support, so I am glad you are here. I would be honored to be part of your journey and look forward to working with you! Please note: I am unable to see Kaiser members on this platform, even if Kaiser is not being used for therapy purposes.

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Patricia Ballesteros

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefBipolar disorderDepression
12 years of experience

I have been licensed for 12 yrs as a marriage and family therapist, I have been employed at a county mental health facility in the crisis clinic and as clinician, I evaluate for psychiatric hospitalization, some case management, therapy, I have worked with minors adolescents, and adults in crisis setting, I have experience working with Bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, Depression, psychotic disorders, I have also worked in mental health outreach and In conjunction with law enforcement, I am compassionate, empathetic, and ethical, I am patient and passionate, a very good listener, respectful and realistic.

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Iryna Aronov

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCareer difficulties
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, intimacy related issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with career difficulties. 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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Myung "Claire" Hwang

Offering therapy in California
Self esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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. 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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Solana Olsen

Offering therapy in California
License: LMHC,NCC,PPS
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

Much mahalos for taking the time to read my profile. I look forward to working with you! My name is Solana Olsen (or as my younger clients call me "Mrs. O"), and I was born and raised on the island of Oahu. I graduated from University of Hawaii-Manoa with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Minor in Family Resources. Go Rainbow Warriors! I continued my education by pursuing my Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology at Chaminade University of Honolulu. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) for the State of California, a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) for the State of Hawaii, a National Certified Counselor (NCC), and hold a Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential for school counseling in the State of California. For several decades, I have provided mental health counseling services in homes, schools, shelters, and juvenile detention settings. I have experience working with individuals, families, and groups. My theoretical approach with clients is generally eclectic, however, I tailor to each individual or groups’ needs. I pull primarily from dialectical behavioral-, cognitive behavioral-, and solution-focused therapies. It would be a privilege and pleasure to provide that safe, supportive and nonjudgmental space for you to work through the obstacles life has thrown your way and to help you in your journey to find your best self.

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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