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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Percival Fisher, Jr.

Offering therapy in California
License: MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Greetings, Everyone! I'm Percival Fisher, Jr., but you can simply call me "Percy." With 13 years of experience, I've been dedicated to providing both individual and group psychotherapy. My goal is to assist you in achieving your therapy objectives by creating a safe, warm, and interactive space to explore your presenting issues. I bring expertise in addressing a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, "coming out"/LGBTQIA-related issues, and family conflicts. To tailor the therapeutic experience to your unique needs, I employ a diverse set of treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Harm Reduction, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Crisis Intervention, and Relational Therapeutic techniques. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Florida, North Carolina, California, Oregon, Arizona, Washington (LICSW), and West Virginia (LICSW), I am also a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (BCD) by the American Board of Examiners in Clinical Social Work. Additionally, I hold certifications as a Certified Complex Trauma Professional (CCTP-II) from the International Association of Trauma Professionals and a Certified Case Manager (CCM) from the Commission for Case Management Certification. Beyond psychotherapy, my background spans behavioral health research, HIV/AIDS education and counseling, teaching, medical social work, and leadership. During my leisure time, I indulge in watching Marvel series on Netflix, psychological thrillers, reading, traveling, engaging in conversations about current events related to mental health, and staying active through workouts. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to work with you and support your journey. Take care! Percival Fisher, Jr., MSW, LCSW-C. LICSW, LCSW, BCD, CCTP-II, CCM

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Mateus Porter

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Hello, my name is Mateus Porter, MA, LMFT. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I work in a non-profit setting as well as enjoying my private practice where I see a variety of clients ranging in age and struggling with depression, anxiety, school/work stress, self-esteem issues, life transitions, relationship issues, and parenting concerns. My specialty is working with student-athletes struggling with a variety of issues, but you definitely do not have to be an athlete to see me! Therapy can vary depending on the individual therapist that you work with. My style is a strength-based eclectic approach that combines elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems. I love being able to meet my clients where they’re at and go at their pace while applying the therapeutic approach that best fits their specific needs. Life can be hard and it takes courage to reach out for help. You’re taking the first step right now which is amazing! It would be an honor to be by your side while we figure things out and make life a little better for you.

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Michael Stample

Offering therapy in California
License: PhD,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
22 years of experience

Having been active as a therapist since the 90s, both in private practice and on staff with Kaiser Permanente for 13 years, I sometimes imagine I've seen "everything." Fortunately, the next person I see will often prove me wrong. The areas of my major experience and competence include Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar); Anxiety in all its forms; OCD; Chronic pain management; Anger management, Sexual concerns, including LGBTQ and transgender problems; couples and families; and others. I'm a PhD in Marital & Family therapy (1997), and my background includes career responsibilities in the advertising/marketing fields, studies in philosophy and anthropology at U.C. Berkeley, and early training for the Orthodox Jewish Rabbinate, I am of course well acquainted with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, in all its current incarnations, Motivational Interviewing, as well as psychodynamic therapy, Jungian therapy, and the careful application of good sense. Feel free to contact me on this site to discuss working together.

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Nanci Crompton

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsGriefCoping with life changes
34 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 34 years of professional experience in helping clients coping with addictions, with grief and loss, spiritual issues, and other changes along the path of life (whether planned or unexpected). 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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Karen Egertson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
17 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with 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.

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Nancy Montes

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 22 years of professional work experience. I am Bilingual (English & Spanish), Bi-Cultural and believe in being cultural sensitive. I have helped individuals from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, including Hispanic populations, at-risk children, adolescents, adults, families, couples. I am skilled in assisting clients work through and resolve issues with grief/loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, ODD, substance and alcohol abuse, chronic pain, truancy, life and social skills, anger, parenting, domestic violence, divorce, and other life issues. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.

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Cristina Rodriguez

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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Liana Beckett

Offering therapy in California
Family conflictsGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
31 years of experience

I am a California-licensed solution-focused relationship therapist with over 30 years' professional experience. I am a values-based therapist, specializing in helping clients to do well and be well--not to just cope--with life changes, career difficulties, personal growth, as well as grief and loss both well- defined and ambiguous. I speak several therapeutic "languages," primarily ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), and IFS (Internal Family Systems). For those focused primarily on their work life I also offer management and professional coaching. It takes courage to seek out more fulfilling values-based relationships in the important areas of one's life to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Kellye Laughery

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCoping with life changesCoaching
18 years of experience

"With 18 years of professional experience as a licensed provider in California, I specialize in helping individuals navigate stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, family dynamics, life transitions, and executive coaching. My approach is supportive and solution-focused, creating a safe, judgment-free space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly. Whether you're facing personal struggles or seeking professional growth, I’m here to guide you with expertise and compassion. Taking the first step toward therapy is a courageous decision, and I commend you for investing in yourself. Let’s work together to create meaningful change!"

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Alexis Clark

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

I am a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of California, bringing over five years of diverse experience to my role. I have a profound commitment to serving children, families, and individuals, leveraging my extensive background in non-profit agencies, community-based clinical work, and medical social work. I integrate a client-centered approach, emphasizing empathy, active listening, and tailored interventions. I believe in the transformative power of therapy, and I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to make positive changes in their lives. Seeking out therapy can often be a daunting and challenging step for many individuals, as it requires confronting personal struggles and vulnerabilities. I understand the courage it takes to embark on this journey, and it is my sincere hope to provide a safe, open, and trusting space where clients feel comfortable and supported. My approach emphasizes building a genuine connection with those I work with, honoring their autonomy and allowing them to guide the direction and pace of our sessions. Our time together can involve processing, identifying new coping skills, assigning homework (if that is your thing!), role-playing, and any other technique that will set you up for success. I look forward to connecting 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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