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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Amy Torn

Offering therapy in California
License: MFT
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

Hello! I am a California- and Arizona-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with 25 years of experience counseling children, teens, and adults. I have trained and practiced extensively as a cognitive-behavioral therapist, and I also have a passion for mindfulness-based and holistic approaches for greater well-being. As a recovering worrier and formerly fierce self-critic, I find great peace and joy in Eastern and Western spiritual wisdom. I am happy to offer these perspectives to those who are interested. I also love to share self-compassion and mindfulness approaches to better cope with emotions and to address patterns of thought and behavior. In counseling, I encourage people to tune into/trust their intuition; practice greater self-acceptance; release themselves from the burden of limiting beliefs and distressing thought patterns; and find meaning and opportunity in challenging experiences. I offer a Spiritually-oriented, compassionate, research-based, and collaborative approach to counseling. I have a passion and specialty in assisting adults who are experiencing anxiety and those who wish to be more loving/accepting of themselves. I also enjoy helping individuals who are seeking deeper contentment or meaning in their lives and those who are dealing with life changes, including major illness and end-of-life issues. Most of my clinical experience has been counseling in outpatient settings (group and private practice). I have also worked in intensive-outpatient programs, providing cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness therapy. In addition, I am trained in a dream interpretation model developed at the University of Maryland, for those interested in using their dreams to better understand and enhance their waking lives. My other professional interests are: astrology, Spiritual mediumship, Reiki (Japanese energy healing), and functional nutrition (food for mood). Personally, I enjoy hiking, meditation, yoga, learning Spanish, and caring for animals. I lived in Southern California for two decades and relocated to Southern Arizona last year. Thank you for viewing my site. It will be a joy to connect with you!

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Anke Kalaiah

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
15 years of experience

Hello there! Welcome to the pages of better help, and welcome to my counselor profile. My name is Anke Kalaiah, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and it is my pleasure to be able to introduce myself to you. This year has been extremely tough for so many of us. Anxiety and depression seem to be on an all-time high. Every week or even every day seems to bring on some other uncertainty and challenge - from Pandemics to economic struggles, societal unrest, natural catastrophes like fires and storms, and questions about how to juggle all of our different responsibilities: working from home, caring for others and teaching our children. It seems to become more and more difficult to be able to find security and plan ahead, while at the same time self-care is becoming more important than ever before. All of these issues can feel very overwhelming, and it can feel like we have so many things on our plate that we do not even know where to start. Many people are experiencing sleeplessness, mood changes, stress related issues, relational stress and maybe even somatic symptoms like chronic headaches or pains brought on by the current circumstances. In this challenging situation having a counselor available to reach out and to connect with from the comfort and safety of your own home, 7 days per week can be extremely helpful. I congratulate you for having been brave enough to take the first step in reaching out for help, and I'm looking forward to getting in contact with you to learn more about your individual situation and to assess together and collaboratively with you how I might be able to be of assistance. I have a Bachelor degree in German and Socialpsychology from Ruhr University in Bochum (Germany,) and as an immigrant myself I am very familiar with issues related to immigration, expats, multicultural families and difficulties related to cultural assimilation. I completed my Masters degree in Counseling Psychology at Santa Clara University in CA in 2011, and I received my license as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in 2014. I have in total over 12 years of clinical experience with clients in a variety of clinical settings, and I have worked with a wide array of clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and all age groups. My focus within the last years has been Trauma and Abuse, Domestic Violence, Sexual Abuse, as well as Family and Marital Conflict, Divorce, Coparenting Problems, Blended Families and Parenting Problems. My approach to therapy is eclectic. I draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches and modalities to be able to provide my clients with tools and skills that they can use to be able to better master the challenges that they are facing. I work from a client centered perspective, which means that I believe that clients are the best experts on their own lives and should be able to determine the direction and depth of therapy. I utilize a strengths-based and solutions-focused lens to guide my clients in identifying strengths and developing treatment plans that accomplish their goals. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I assist clients in exploring relationships among thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to aid in discovering dysfunctional thought patterns leading to self-destructive behaviors and beliefs. Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I support clients through developing skills: mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotion regulation with the goal of moving clients towards a life involving the capacity for experiencing joy and freedom. Please reach out to me any time. I am looking forward to working with you.

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Mary Cabarles

Offering therapy in California
License: MSW,LCSW
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
18 years of experience

I am licensed in California and have 17 years of post-graduate professional work experience. Welcome to my page. My name is Mary and I have been in the social work field since I was a sophomore in college. My experience has varied from group homes, residential facilities, job coaching, comorbid disorders, homelessness, domestic violence, working in the criminal justice department, trauma, abuse, family dynamics and working in the public sector. I have worked with elementary school aged children, adolescents, teens aging out of the system, adults, elderly and hospice. I started my private practice in the midst of the pandemic as stress levels rose from fear, job changes, financial issues, childcare/eldercare, relationship issues, racial injustices, air quality, displacement by the wildfires, climate change, the list goes on. I wanted to provide support to those impacted by any and all above combined with interpersonal issues. How do we handle all of this? By providing a listening ear, someone to vent to, plan with. I'm here. More availability on weekends.

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Elizabeth Owens

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

I am a family and marriage counselor licensed in California with over 10 years of experience working as a psychotherapist both privately and in the clinic setting. I have had the honor of working with clients from children to senior adults, couples and groups. In this experience, I have worked with clients who have had visits of depression; anxiety; trauma; family issues; religious crisis; parenting challenges and self-harm thoughts. I have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). My preferred approaches include: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Person Centered, Psychodynamic and Family Therapy. Although I do not provide pastoral counseling, I assist clients whom are Christian with issues that may challenge their faith. I pray with clients (at their request) and provide Biblical scriptures as a foundation. My counseling style is warm and interactive and I may challenge clients at times where we both agree may be barriers to moving forward. I do not give advice to clients, but assist them in finding what works for them. Psychotherapy involves hard work, being true to yourself and awareness that real change is done outside of the therapeutic relationship. "Anything you work hard for, you appreciate more." I look forward to working with you!

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Lorne Leach

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT,CADC-II
AddictionsSelf esteem
24 years of experience

ABOUT ME Hi, my name is Lorne Leach and I am a Marriage Family Therapist licensed since 2000. I help others deal with a variety of issues including marriage and family problems, anxiety, depression, addictions, grief and coping with life changes. My work has been in a variety of settings including outpatient, residential, addictions rehab, detox, private practice and correctional facilities. The approach I prefer is generally cognitive behaviorally oriented and have had training in several modalities including Motivational Interviewing, Twelve Step Facilitation and Seeking Safety. I take a collaborative approach with clients and believe that ultimately the individual will make their own choices. My job as a therapist is to empower you , help you process and help you develop self help tools. I look forward to the honor of accompanying you in the healing and growth process. SPECIALTIES Addictions Grief Parenting issues Coping with life changes Also experienced in: Stress, Anxiety , LGBT , Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Intimacy-related issues , Anger management , Self esteem , Depression , more... Clinical approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing Years of Experience: 25 SERVICES OFFERED MESSAGING LIVE CHAT PHONE VIDEO LICENSING LMFT 37168

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Gregory Davenport

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hello there! I have been working in the mental health and addiction field profession for 10 years. I use an eclectic approach, however, the theoretical frameworks that most define me professionally combine unconditional positive regard, spiritual/faith-based and cognitive-behavioral theory. My style is pragmatic, professional, down-to-earth, and based upon professional and personal-life experiences. I have a unique ability to therapeutically join with clients which is partly due to my personality, style and vernacular. I am an eclectic counselor that utilizes multiple theories such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Solution-Focused Therapy. What is it like to work with me? Humor - Let's face it, therapy, counseling, or whatever you'd like to call it does NOT always have to be so serious. I enjoy the fact that my client's and I can laugh together. I believe that laughter is so important when exploring topics that are difficult and challenging. Culturally Sensitive - I have worked with many clients over the years that come from all walks of life. That includes culturally, ethnically, religiously, spiritually, age, or socioeconomic status, I respect and value all my clients for who they are. The truth is that we all have a history, and that history is part of our story to be told and valued. My Educational Credentials: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in CA (BBS) Substance Abuse Professional (NAADAC) Master of Science in Addiction Counseling (Grand Canyon University) Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (Argosy University) For my professional growth, I continuously read related literature, keep myself up to date with the ethical and legal guidelines in the field, and the latest research, and attend trainings. I look forward to working with you and being a part of your journey.

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Matthew Tapia

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT,BCBA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionADHD
11 years of experience

Hello! I'm Matt and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Arizona and California. In my life, I’ve seen many people with a broad spectrum of challenges. I’ve also seen that hope and relief are possible. I offer a unique perspective in getting you that help. I enjoy seeing individuals and families solve problems and feel closer together. My experience comes from providing direct mental health and behavioral counseling for kids, teens, and adults with a variety of presenting issues including anxiety, autism, Asperger's syndrome, depression, stress, relationship and family issues, life transitions, parenting, and caregiving issues in a variety of settings. My approach and therapy style draws influence from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). It is important that you and I work together as a team using a collaborative approach and that I meet you where you are. Previously, I worked in a private practice as a clinician, consultant, and supervisor. I have also worked at a nonprofit mental health clinic as a clinician, supervisor, consultant, and trainer. This background gave me the opportunity to work with individuals, families, and couples with a wide variety of presenting issues. I have supported those dealing with autism, Asperger's syndrome, anger issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, young adult issues, life transitions, men's issues, parenting, caregiving, substance abuse and at-risk adolescent behavior. I also assist crisis response and first responders through their difficult experiences. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University and an undergraduate degree in Psychology from San Jose State University. I am also certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and licensed as a Licensed Behavior Analyst in Arizona. Early in my career, I had the privilege of working with a young couple who were facing significant challenges in their relationship. They had been together for several years but found themselves constantly caught in arguments and unable to communicate effectively. Their frustration and despair were palpable during our initial sessions. As we began our journey together, I witnessed their commitment to each other and their genuine desire to rebuild their connection. Over time, we delved into the underlying issues contributing to their conflicts, exploring patterns of communication, past experiences, and individual needs. One memorable session stands out vividly in my mind. It was a breakthrough moment when they both expressed vulnerability and shared their deepest fears and insecurities. In that moment of raw honesty, walls crumbled, and empathy flourished. It was a turning point in their relationship as they discovered newfound understanding and compassion for each other. Through dedication and hard work, they gradually transformed their relationship into one characterized by mutual respect, open communication, and genuine intimacy. Witnessing their growth and resilience was incredibly rewarding, and it reinforced my belief in the transformative power of therapy and the resilience of the human spirit. This experience deeply informs my approach to therapy, emphasizing the importance of fostering a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their challenges, discover their strengths, and embark on a journey of healing and growth together.

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Michelle Torres M

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuse
10 years of experience

In my clinical practice, I have had the privilege of working with individuals who have faced a range of complex issues. Many of my clients have experienced trauma and are in the process of exploring and reclaiming their identities as they navigate the impact of their past experiences. I also support clients who are working to uncover the underlying roots of their depression and anxiety, seeking not only relief from symptoms but also a deeper understanding of the factors contributing to their distress. Additionally, I have assisted clients who struggle with people-pleasing behaviors and difficulties in setting personal boundaries, guiding them towards greater self-assertion and empowerment. My approach centers on helping clients build insight into their unique challenges and develop effective, lasting strategies to improve their quality of life. My journey into becoming a therapist began with a natural interest in helping others, though I didn’t fully understand why until I recognized the pressing need for mental health support. As a minority, I’ve faced my own unique challenges, which opened my eyes to the broader needs within communities and fueled my drive to serve. I’ve seen firsthand how systemic issues affect people on every level—from macro to mezzo to micro—and how family traditions and cultural influences can shape our perspectives. These experiences have deepened my commitment to supporting individuals as they navigate these multifaceted challenges, helping them feel seen, understood, and empowered

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Jonathan Pearson

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, intimacy related issues, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Emilie Ansay

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
7 years of experience

I am an LMHC with 5 years of professional work experience. I am skilled in LGBTQIA+ affirming care, transgender care, dialectical behavioral therapy, grief counseling, and trauma work specializing in interpersonal traumas. The primary techniques I use in my therapy sessions are validation and genuine empathy, mindfulness and grounding strategies, insight-oriented treatment, and supportive psychotherapy. 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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Stacy Benedict

Offering therapy in California
Trauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California since 2017 and have been a social worker for the past 17 years in Child Welfare. I am a parent of a teenager and adopted young children that are 7, 8 and 10 years old. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, parenting issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I have done extensive training in race, equity and diversity. 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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Michael Brown

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
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, anger management, depression, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Cecil Edwards

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementCareer difficulties
10 years of experience

I am licensed in three states, to include California, as a clinical social worker, having started in this career field in 2011. In addition, I retired as a military Chaplain after 36 years serving both as a weekend warrior and on full-time deployments. My areas of expertise include Christian counseling, and helping clients work through stress and anxiety, anger management, career difficulties and relationship issues within and outside the Family. Allowing me to accompany you on your courageous journey toward a more fulfilling and happier life will be an honor and a privilege. Let's get started.

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Linden Howe

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. 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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Rochelle Ashton-Beasley

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, depression, & 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.

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:

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.

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