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.
Leah Finn
Hello and welcome! My name is Leah Finn. I am a marriage and family therapist based out of the San Francisco Bay Area and licensed in California. My goal is to help you achieve your goals. Since 2010, I have worked with clients from a variety of backgrounds and life experiences to effectively manage and cope with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I have also helped many people who have experienced trauma, emotional abuse, and/or disability. In 2018, I founded Healing Solutions Psychotherapy. My counseling style is warm, interactive, and nonjudgmental. I provide an environment for you to feel safe to explore fears, concerns, and your deepest desires for creating the life that you want. I use a strength-based approach that combines mindfulness with cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, narrative, solution-focused, and psychodynamic therapies. I have a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University, and I practice under the laws of California. I believe in treating you with respect, empathy, sensitivity, and compassion. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a community organizer for social, racial, and economic justice. My background includes extensive training in anti-oppression work, looking at how race, class, gender, sexuality, and ability overlap and shape our lived experience. I will tailor our work together to meet your unique and specific needs. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, asexual, and agender) individuals and families. I am committed to providing culturally competent, sex positive counseling, particularly with people who identify as polyamorous and people who are a part of the kink community. I am also certified as a domestic violence counselor with 48 hours of LGBT-specialized training. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling, happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. You have the right to feel heard, understood, whole, and complete. You deserve to be your best self. I look forward to learning more about you!
Hai Nguyen
I am honored to have the opportunity to meet you and explore areas of the heart, mind, and soul with you. I have fallen in love with studying "love" since a young age. It occurred to me that life gives us many paradoxes/contradictions such as: "Go through pain in order to heal". Since my awareness opened up to the vast internal world of the human mind, I strive to find the answer. In the combination of my teaching career (online Professor - Psychology, health/human services/Philosophy) and psychotherapy, I was given the gift of a special journey in revealing the invisible components in life - especially our internal world. I have personal and professional experience in diverse areas (gangs, addiction, violence, mood disorders, relationship dynamics, family connection, and many areas within the interpersonal/intrapersonal realm). In addition, I hold a special awareness for cultural sensitivity as well, and the assimilation process onto areas of adaptation and acculturation. I began viewing life with analytical, philosophical, and emotional perception at an early age as life became difficult since I could remember. When I had finally turned my life around and attended college, I was inspired by many individuals. From this, I earned a position with my previous professor as his T.A in stress management. From there, I moved onto graduate school after attaining my Psychology degree. During my Marriage and Family therapy program, I continued to teach. The last year of my studies I was honored to work as an intern at non-profit agency where I delivered therapeutic services to a vast array of different populations: Onsite therapist for a middle school and high school (pre-teens and teens). I also worked with couple's, anger management, domestic violence, family/individual therapy at the main facility. I was then given the chance to work as an online professor at Ashford University after completing my Master's degree, where I continued to do so until this day. After graduation I moved onto working with children with Autism Spectrum disorder (minority population) for over a year. Finally, I traveled into the work on dual diagnosis/addiction, where I started as a part-time therapist and moved towards becoming the primary therapist, and then the clinical director for the whole facility. From my journey, I have been given the privilege to uphold a vast array of experiences, even to the extent of online gaming addiction. My main focus now lies in areas of emotional connection (relationships - family, couples', and even with yourself), grief/loss, mood disorders, addiction, and education.
Dr. Arthur Magana
My name is Dr. Art Magana, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in Sacramento California. I have been working in the field of mental-health for over thirty years and have been licensed since 2002. I believe I have a strong foundation in the field of psychology, benefiting from training at the University of California, Antioch University, and at the School of Professional Psychology in San Francisco. I have balanced this background with early doctoral work at The Institute for Integral studies in San Francisco as well as years of training and workshops which allow me to consider myself as a multi-modal therapist, drawing upon various schools of thought which inform my worldview and understanding of human nature. I have worked in the field of child protection, Early Child Development and Infant Toddler Mental Health, Foster Care and Adoption, inpatient psychiatric, as well as years as a social worker and a supervisor for social service programs. I have been on staff at numerous counseling centers over the years and worked with a broad range of clients and their presenting problems and needs. I have practiced at the Institute for Bi Polar Spectrum Disorders in Folsom California .This background has given me a unique experience and perspective to look at the whole person beyond the confines of the patient therapist interaction. My approach as a psychologist includes genuine respect for all my clients and a desire to help them. I try to hear beyond their words to take in the person's emotional reality , their strength, and their sense of trust and safety as they move forward. I feel that humor has an important place in the healing and growing process. The research backs me up. I am a father, a husband, a teacher and a Latino therapist. I'm comfortable working in conversational Spanish however my writing skills...well not so much. Thank you for taking a moment to tell you about myself. Now it's your turn! I hope we have the opportunity to work together.
Claire Nana
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with 18 years experience working as a psychotherapist and life coach. I work with a variety of concerns including trauma, addiction, body image and weight loss issues, relationship issues, and life purpose. I have also worked with many people recovering from mass traumas, such as school shootings. I have presented at International conferences and written 25 continuing education courses for psychotherapists. My goal is always to identify ways the practice of psychotherapy can be improved, and find new and innovative ways clinicians can help their clients. In my free time, I enjoy ultrarunning, bringing my three rescue horses up the levels in dressage and completing a long overdue manuscript. I believe in empowering my clients, treating them with respect, and honoring their life choices. I believe that the keys to improved mental health and happiness exist inside every client. My approach is existential in nature, and looks to help people find what is truly most important to them, and move in that direction. Together, I believe we can find a way to a fulfilling, rewarding, and meaningful life - regardless of what life has put you through. I look forward to working with you!
Shannon Bettencourt
I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, 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 & empower you in that journey.
Stephanie Wideman
Hi there! I am so glad you are here. Take a moment. Yes, right now, take a deep breath. I’ll be here. Exhale. Be proud of yourself. Today, you showed up. You are here and you are willing to consider taking the next step. Well done! I believe, life is full of emotion. It makes us laugh and cry… sometimes both in the same moment. It can be hard as we journey through it to see the forest for the trees… to see beauty instead of pain. Wherever you are along your journey you do not have to travel alone. My name is Stephanie Wideman. I am a licensed clinical social worker based in Missouri. I have 20 years of experience coming alongside others, from children to older adults, on their journey as a guide. You will always lead, because we are going where you want to go. Together we can forge a path of perspective and self awareness; replacing lies with truth and be able to take in all of the beauty of the journey along the way. Each person's destination and goals are unique. My guidebook (clinical approach techniques) is diverse. Be prepared to roll up your sleeves, because I believe you get out of therapy what you put into it. I am a Christian and draw my clinical approaches heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (known as CBT) aligned with the Biblical principles of grace, love, and mercy. At all times, as your guide it is important to me that you feel safe, respected, heard, encouraged, empowered, and challenged. Yes, we can do hard things. Now, you did not come this far to only come this far. Grab your favorite mug and find a place of solace. Let’s journey through together.
Pedro Gomez Carranza
I am licensed in California with 6 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 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Tiffany Ung
I am a licensed clinical social worker in California with more than 10 years of clinical experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with a wide range of clients from different ethnic backgrounds with concerns and emotional challenges including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, ADHD, motivation, self-esteem and confidence, and coping with life changes. My therapy style is warm, laid-back and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe that you are the expert of your story and you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. My approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic, Strength Based Focused, Narrative Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing Therapy. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. Taking the first step is the hardest. If you are ready to take that step to make changes in your life, I am here to support and guide you in that process. I look forward to working with you!
Vanessa Uribe
I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and 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.
Melissa Fogle
I am licensed in California with 21 years of professional work experience. I help clients that are looking to heal from stressful symptoms of anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues. I enjoys supporting those coping with grief and loss, low motivation and low self esteem, and those experiencing a life transition. 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.
Socorro Gomez
I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Samia Yesufu
Life is a journey and every small step you take in therapy is a step in the right direction. My goal is to provide an empathic and engaging atmosphere where you will experience safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental interaction as we navigate your journey together. I believe in a client-centered approach and that you are the change-maker who holds the power to guide your journey. I believe that each person has unique impressions and experiences, so my treatment is tailored to your individual needs. I hope to work with you in exploring your emotions and experiences, to help you develop some tools that can make life’s journey easier. I have experience working with adolescents and adults. I have assisted clients in navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions and trauma. I have experience with members of the LGBTQ+ community. I am sensitive to multicultural issues and welcome collaborating with clients from various backgrounds to provide culturally competent therapy. Ready to start the journey of healing? Take the next step and connect with me. I can't promise you that it won't be challenging but I am sure you will be pleased with who you become on the other side.
Nambryan Do
I am licensed in California and Nevada with 4 years of professional clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, with elements of Evolutionary Psychology. I currently operate a private practice in CA and NV and I am also the in-house performance coach at a successful hedge fund on the East Coast. My focus is in helping individuals reach their prime selves through cognitive restructuring and setting clear attainable goals. But I will challenge you to follow through with your strategies.
Nehemiah Campbell
I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!
Randall Ramirez
I am dual-licensed in California as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) and have over 40 years of experience treating youth, adults, seniors and families impacted by a wide range of emotional disorders, health-related illnesses and environmental stress. I have worked in all levels of management and direct services within the behavioral health, social services, residential and health care industry. My special areas of interest are early attachment, complex trauma, relational issues, and transcultural sensitivity. I was the founder and chair of the South County Roundtable on Attachment (SCRoA), an interdisciplinary professional and parent group studying the spectrum of attachment disorders and identifying research-based models of practice, in the south county of Santa Clara County since 2010. Finally, I am an adoptive father of children with special needs and provide parent-to-parent support through the faith-based Parent-Child Connection support group of Help One Child.
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
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