Finding a therapist in California can be challenging. Even in some of the biggest California cities, concerns about cost or a lack of available providers can make finding an in-person therapist 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. From young adults needing help managing ADHD to seniors struggling to heal from past events, therapists can help adults of any age navigate the challenges in their lives and learn 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.

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Dr. Madison Brightwell

Offering therapy in California
License: OR LMFT T1717, NC LMFT 2068
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
19 years of experience

I always treat every client as a unique and special individual who I can empower to find their own inner guidance and healing ability. I love what I do and I feel this is my purpose in life. I specialize in helping people with addictions, pain, trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and anger. It is my belief that addictions, pain and trauma are closely linked and it is my mission to break the cycle of despair that keeps people trapped in pain, whether it is emotional or physical. I have a behavioral approach to counseling, and I believe in working to help the client by looking at where they are right now and enabling them to move forward in a more positive direction with their lives. Treatment Approach I have a very creative approach to my work and enjoy using expressive arts to help people discover a new self-identity. My unique experience as a performing artist helps me to find creative ways to move people out of their negative patterns of behavior and transform their lives.

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Dr. Martha Groble

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC LPCC19237, FL LMHC MH2809
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
29 years of experience

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Erlynn Cabarles

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 68154
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
28 years of experience

Hello and thank you for having enough courage and honesty to take the first big step. My name is Erlynn and I have a Master’s in Social Work, concentration in Individuals, Families and Groups from San Francisco. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California since 2015. I received a BA in Psychology, emphasis in Clinical and Developmental Psychology from Santa Cruz. I have 20 plus years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked across a continuum of care from residential, sub-acute day treatment programs, and hospitals focusing on mental health issues, probation, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, family dynamics and conflicts. I have experience working with infants/toddlers, children, adolescents, young adults, people with disabilities, and the elderly. I believe that the first step of healing is self-discovery and the development of personal goals to overcome challenges. My intentions are to instill hope and inspiration and to empower you to be able to move on to a more fulfilling life. Remember that You are resilient and determined to change for the positive. My purpose is to provide a safe space and non-judgmental environment. If you’re ready, I’ll be here to support you!

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(Louise) Karin Wiese

Offering therapy in California
License: MI LMFT 4101007103, CA LMFT 147385
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuse
6 years of experience

Well done for reaching out for help...your first step towards healing! As a licensed marriage and family therapist we will work together on resolving conflicts, and learning new coping skills for the stressors you are experiencing. I also specialize in couple counselling, infidelity and betrayal issues, blended families, divorce and single parenting. I have a passion for empowering individuals to reach their unique potential. I am creative in helping clients find their strengths in challenging situations by applying effective therapeutic and inter-personal skills. I use an eclectic approach embracing CBT, solution focused therapy and EFT and Gottman method for couples. I have a MA in Clinical Psychology, BA Psychology, BED post grad in School Guidance and counseling, Mediator and Divorce Mediator, Teacher Certification and EMDR Cert. I am South African; I have lived and worked in many multicultural settings which has equipped me with compassion and understanding for differences in culture and beliefs. My life experience as a wife, mother, grandmother and educator, has been beneficial in broadening my understanding as a professional in my career as a licensed therapist. Remember : whatever the problem, there is always hope, a new day and a new beginning.... Psychology Today Listing: (Louise) Karin Wiese https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/karin-wiese-springfield-mo/489831 EMDR certificate

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Samantha Nelums

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 114779, NM LCSW SWB-2022-1177
LGBTFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I will be seeing clients full-time starting August 25th, 2025. I have quite a bit of openings now so please book them as soon as you can. I will honor your day and time moving for a weekly recurrence if you secure your spot now. I am licensed in California and New Mexico with over 12 years of professional social work experience (5 years in the clinical setting). I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ related issues specifically around family acceptance and coming out. I also work with the general population on general family-related conflicts, boundary-setting, self-esteem, and self-empowerment. While I am an ally to gender diverse communities, I do not specialize in gender dysphoria and or writing letters for gender affirming surgery. Although I am a supporter for the cause, I feel that medical communities should not have authority in decisions related to how one's body, rather I believe that the individual themselves should have that autonomy. I think 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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Eric Aldaco

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 116682
Self esteemCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I believe that you are the expert of your life journey 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 life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am a Christian therapist and my approach to therapy is from a biblical perspective. I look forward in meeting you and collaboratively engaging in a strength base therapeutic model in treatment.

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Dorothy Holley

Offering therapy in California
License: FL LCSW SW6320, GA LCSW CSW005226
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuse
30 years of experience

I am licensed as a clinical social worker in both Georgia and Florida with more than 25 years of professional work experience. 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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Ashby "Brooks" Larsen

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 12724, UT LCSW 11035932-3501
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
58 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Utah with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Freddie Williams

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 106687, AZ LMFT LMFT-15693
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I'm an Arizona and California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 12 years of professional work experience. Also, I'm a Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor, specializing in addictions. I AM EXPERIENCED IN HELPING MALE ADULTS ONLY (18 -75 YEARS OLD) who are struggling with Substance Abuse and Co-Occurring Disorders, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorder and Anger Management. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My approach includes highly effective Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical behavioral (DBT), and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). With my extensive experience and knowledge, I am confident in my ability to help you overcome your challenges and achieve your goals. 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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Jaclyn Decarlo

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 110649
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionADHD
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, life changes, stress and anxiety. Additionally, I have helped people cope with addictions, and increase motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I have previously worked in substance use treatment, housing first agencies, and with the forensic mental health population. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and have enjoyed working with teenagers in the past. 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 as I believe in meeting each individual where thy are are at. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process and am glad you are here.

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Cristina Dawes

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 45948
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoaching
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, depression, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Kevin Cameron

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 127139, NV LMFT 4674-R
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesCareer difficultiesCoaching
7 years of experience

I’m a licensed therapist in California and Nevada with over 30 years of combined experience in military service, leadership development, and clinical mental health. As a combat veteran and former military working dog handler turned clinician, I understand the value of grit, clarity, and getting results—not just talking about them. I specialize in working with Veterans, first responders, high-stress professionals, and couples facing issues related to trauma, performance, communication, intimacy, and identity. Whether you're navigating a personal crisis, trying to lead effectively under pressure, or just ready to stop feeling stuck, I bring a no-nonsense approach rooted in respect, cultural competence, and practical solutions. Therapy with me is not about labels or long-winded diagnoses—it's about developing the tools, mindset, and momentum you need to move forward. I’ll meet you where you are, and together we’ll create a plan that works in the real world. If you're ready to reclaim your strength and lead your life with purpose, I’m here to walk that path with you.

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Michael Edward Quackenbush

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 20950
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
28 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Sonja Peverieri

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 84724
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
15 years of experience

Welcome to my page! I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, & anger management. I also have experience working with depression. My therapeutic approach focuses on client-care first with the use of Cognitive Behavioral therapy and Dialectal Behavioral therapy. My training in Biblical counseling also allows me to support Christians with Scripture and prayer. We will focus on identifying barriers in relationships and care with support based on the Bible and trusting God through prayer to stay connected with church family. With additional training in Triple P Positive Parenting program, I support parents in navigating through challenges in raising their children and supporting them in their developmental needs. 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 as well as accommodate to cultural diversity. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I look forward to meeting with you and providing ongoing therapy!

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 BetterHelp therapists in California does not offer diagnostic or medication management services in therapy.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor or therapists?

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, working with:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders requiring therapy
  • Anxiety disorders in need of therapeutic support
  • Depression or depressive mental health conditions
  • Adjustment issues in need of therapeutic support
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief therapy
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma therapy
  • Relationship conflicts and mental health concerns

Finding a therapist in California 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 therapy site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the therapy 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 therapy with a licensed therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person California therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $65 to $100 per week. 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.

Is it possible to find a therapist, counselor, or psychology practitioner that offers affordable therapy?

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.

What can a psychologist help me with in therapy?

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 in-person or online therapy with a therapist in California?

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.

Are online therapy sessions 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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