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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Dr. Anna Hiscox

Offering therapy in California
License: DAT, ATR, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

Hello. I'm Anna Hiscox, a graduate of Mount Mary University in Milwaukee, WI, where I earned a doctoral degree in Art Therapy. I also attended Notre Dame de Namur University in Belmont, CA, and received a master's degree in Art Therapy (ATR) and Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT). My theoretical approach to counseling includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Family Systems counseling. I have over fifteen years of experience working in public agencies and private practice. I aim to provide culturally diverse psychotherapy to children, adolescents, couples, and families. As a Marriage and Family Therapist and Art Therapist, it is heartfelt to offer clients options. I believe "Your present circumstances don't determine where you can go; they merely determine where to start" (Nido Qubein). I look forward to working with you!

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Danielle Sanchez

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteem
6 years of experience

I graduated from Antioch University in 2018 with a Masters in Clinical Psychology. I have worked in an outpatient mental health program serving the forensic population over 7 years. This population includes men and women who have been incarcerated, on probation and/or parole, and who have experienced chronic homelessness. I have worked with women who were incarcerated while pregnant and my role was to help them assimilate back into the community and transition to motherhood. I have worked with individuals with a variety of concerns including addiction, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, past sexual abuse, life adjustments, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, relationship and family issues, self-esteem issues, self-harm, grief and loss. I don't believe there is a one fits all approach and I utilize a variety of methods that includes client-centered, narrative, cognitive behavioral and mindfulness, that best fits the needs of my clients. My role in the therapeutic process is to improve my clients quality of life. You are the expert in your life and I am here to assist you in overcoming any concerns and challenges so you can live your best life. I look forward to hearing from you!

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Jennifer Myers

Offering therapy in California
License: M.A.,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Welcome, and thank you for viewing my profile! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both California and Nevada with 13 years of experience helping people overcome the effects of trauma, overcome anxiety and chronic stress, and how to assimilate the challenges brought on by grief and life transitions. I hold a Master of Arts in Psychology (2011) from Brandman University, and Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a Minor in Music from California State University, Sacramento (2004). The majority of my clinical experience has been working with trauma survivors, including survivors of violent crime, domestic violence and child abuse. I have worked as a therapist in private practice, government agencies, and community non-profit clinics. I have also worked in the social service fields as an Employment Services Social Worker, a Child Protective Services Social Worker, and a Foster Family Agency Social Worker. All of these experiences have shaped my approach to working with individuals of diverse life circumstances, and those experiences have given me a profound respect for the challenges that humans face on a daily basis while also providing inspiration as to the resilience of the human spirit. When working with my clients, I use imagery, metaphor, and humor to help them understand and internalize concepts that help them regain control over their lives. Clients often say they appreciate my ability to be "real" with them while also being sensitive, empathetic, and professional. I feel it is important to create a safe space for my clients to openly and honestly share their experiences, no matter the topic, and I encourage any and all questions you might have. I also understand that my clients are relying on me for equally open and honest feedback, and I provide that in a gentle yet meaningful and actionable way. I also believe it is essential that my clients have a clear understanding of how our process works, and to that end and as much as humanly possible, I make sure they always know what to expect from our professional relationship. I very much enjoy working with highly-motivated individuals looking to take charge of their future while healing their past. Let's make a plan about how we can get you from where you are to where you want to be! I look forward to meeting you soon! Warmly, Jen

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Yvette Carreon

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoaching
24 years of experience

24 plus years experience in the mental health field providing therapy and trained in evidence based practices. My approach is integrating components from different types of modalities. Therapy does not have to be daunting. Let's blaze a trail to new pathways of coping, self discovery and mastery. Let us have a conversation and work together to come up with practical and applicable approaches to your everyday life challenges. Couples therapy is full, California residents only, Limited availability at nights only.

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Emily Nielsen

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesParenting issues
10 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist in California with 10 years of professional experience. I have been helping clients with reducing stress, anxiety, creating healthy relationships, good communication, boundaries, coping with change, sadness, loss, & intimacy related issues. I am a strengths based clinician & believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards making a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Sabrina Lucas

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping 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, anger management, and depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jonathan Trost

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
36 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 36 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & career difficulties. 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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Tara McBrearty

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Licensed by the State of California with 30 years of experience, I provide an opportunity for people to explore their emotional landscape as they navigate difficult life transitions. By supporting their sense of self and encouraging their capacity to manage change, I have helped clients sort through conflicts in their relationships, understand barriers to intimacy, re-discover their enthusiasm for life, build trust in themselves and others, and push through barriers to career growth and accomplishment. A cooperative and tolerant approach is key to happiness. I work to offer this tone in my professional relationship with you. This in turn creates an environment of freedom and creativity in our sessions. I understand, the courage required to take the pivotal steps to pursue your sense of purpose and fulfillment. I am pleased to be selected by you to support & empower this journey. Post Script: I am deeply influenced by the writings of Carl Jung, Abraham Maslow, Piaget, Carl Rogers, and Adi Da Samraj, to mention a few. Also, the trainings of Virginia Satire, Michael White , Gabor Mate, Ellyn Bader, John and Julie Gottman, William R. Miller and David Whyte have enlarged my sense of what it is to be human and how to relate productively to our thoughts and feelings.

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Nadia Grissom

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteem
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

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Patricia Kantzavelos

Offering therapy in California
ADHD
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with concentration, memory and focus (adhd). 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.

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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