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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Melinda Meyers

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

Hello, my name is Melinda Meyers and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA. I have been licensed and in private practice for over 10 years. I earned my master degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University in Los Angeles. Seeking out help from a clinician is always the hardest step to take and finding the right clinician for you makes that step easier. I believe we all have the power to find the tools within ourselves to guide us toward a happy and fulfilling life, and I love to help my clients take their first steps toward their goals. I work with my clients from a Humanistic Approach. Your personal worth, your value, creativity, and ability to overcome hardship, pain, and crisis in your life, is the center and most important aspect of my work. As a therapist I am there to help you find that value, creativity, and your ability to overcome issues in your life with guidance that works for you and in your life. I look forward to working with you.

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Katranker Thompson

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Welcome to BetterHelp which is a major step as you strive to enhance your quality of life through therapy . There may be some degree of ambivalence as you embark upon this new therapeutic journey. However, feel assured you have made a sound decision in the exploration of your feelings and thoughts as you seek to improved your quality of life. My style is warm and interactive and I believe in treating each client with respect, compassion and sensitivity. I enjoy developing new relationships and working with clients to identify the specific problem and working together to create individualized treatment goals and plans . Your input in therapy is crucial given that you will be working diligently in order to achieve your identified goals. I look forward to our partnership in care and treatment . My name is Katranker Thompson and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I graduated from Smith College School of Social Work located in Northampton, Massachusetts. I have worked in the field of Social Work for over 25 years and have enjoyed every moment of serving those who may be at a crossroads in their lives and have decided to seek treatment. I have worked with individuals from different backgrounds who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger issues and adjustment disorders. I also have experience working with Veterans and their significant others around stress & anxiety. My Clinical skills include treatment: Depression Stress & Anxiety Grief Work Caregiver Stress Therapy Cognitive Behavior Therapy Messages are initiated through the BetterHelp portal for which I check messages twice a day. The platform for which therapy is conducted is telephone and video.

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Dr. Carlyn Werderman

Offering therapy in California
License: Psy.D.
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
14 years of experience

I completed my Master's and Doctoral degrees at the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University in Los Angeles. I offer my clients an individualized, empowering, values-based, and solution-focused therapeutic approach, which derive from several therapeutic approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy, Schema Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. My previous clinical experience includes working with children, families, and adults in school, outpatient/community mental health, and residential treatment settings. I specialize in working with those who experience mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, anger, chronic pain, substance use, relationship, sexual health, and LGBT-related issues. I also specialize in working with high-conflict families, parental alienation and family reunification cases. I look forward to getting to know more about you and see if we are a good fit!

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Sheila Cano

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am a Professional Clinical Counselor licensed in California. I have experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and 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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Maria Lopez-Boles

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

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I am bilingual (English/Spanish). I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & 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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Janice Lorraine Browning

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
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, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Holly Doolittle

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
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, & coping with grief and 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Maricela Nunez

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & supporting and empowering you to break the barriers of past trauma. As a first generation Latina, I understand that healing generational trauma takes time and understanding, so I encourage the exploration of past experiences and cultural experiences to better understand ourselves and our history. It is important for me to create a space where people feel that their story matters and where they can find healing within themselves. I am passionate about helping people achieve personal growth and self awareness. 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.

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Gregory White

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
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, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and substance abuse, & coping with grief. The truth is my personal journey to overcome challenges has given me the experience to be an effective clinical therapist. I am a strengths based therapist and I know that with honesty in self evaluation any rejection and self doubt can be overcome, I am proof. I do this work because I have devoted myself to overcoming my mistakes and failures. I am a Christian therapist and am more than happy to include, (if you desire), spiritual principles in your recovery, but it is something that must be requested by you. I am here as proof that mistakes can be overcome and do not dictate your future. I accept couples for therapy and have been married for 20 yrs. and we have been able to work through many issues and having a supportive and loving spouse is such a blessing and would be happy to give hope to any married couples that would welcome a Christian therapist.

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Dr. Erin Johnson

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

I am licensed clinical psychologist with 8 years of professional work experience. I work with clients who experience a wide range of symptoms and concerns including stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and low self-confidence. My therapy style is warm and focuses on interactive collaboration with my clients. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. 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. My specific approaches include Interpersonal Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), self-compassion, and various mind-body techniques (meditation, yoga, breathing). I will work with you to find the best approach to meet your individual needs. Taking the first step to make positive changes in your life takes courage. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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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