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.
Nicole Forester
Hello - My name is Nicole Forester . I welcome you. I recognize the energy it takes to seek support. What I can offer is non-judgmental listening to help you hear your own voice. I invite you to be as direct and unedited as you are comfortable. I believe speaking your full truth is the best place to start. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (CA), a Licensed Professional Counselor (CO) and a Nationally Board-Certified Music Therapist. I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Therapy from Utah State University in 2002 followed by an internship at Bethany Children’s Home in Pennsylvania. I graduated with a Master of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix in 2007. I have worked in a variety of settings: University Neuropsychiatric Institute, Inpatient Units, Addiction Recovery Utah Youth Village, In-Home Crisis Team Project Reality, Outpatient Addiction Services and Dual-Diagnosis Arbour Counseling Services, Outpatient Services, Intensive-Outpatient Program Groups Hospice by the Bay, Children and Teens in Hospice Established Private Practice in 2012-2019 in San Francisco. I encourage you to interview your therapist to find a good fit. Feel free to connect with me. We can talk about what kind of support you seek. I will do my best to answer any questions you might have about this process. I believe that having someone to listen objectively can be very helpful. I appreciate the courage it takes to ask for help. Take good care. Hope to hear from you.
Joseph Christensen
I have over 30 years of experience in mental health and have been licensed in the states of California; Oregon and Washington. I possess a Master of Addiction Counseling and have supervised 5 mental health and addictions treatment programs in addition to my experience with counseling. My diverse professional background includes experience in residential; in-patient psychiatric hospitalization in two countries (United States and United Kingdom); school based; military; forensic and community-based counseling services. In addition to this, I possess an extensive background in early brain development consulting; closed head and traumatic brain injury; developmental counseling; couples, family and life-stage counseling and all issues pertaining to human lifespan identity. I have taught the following coursework at a university level: Human Development; Child Development; Attraction and Romantic Love; Pediatric Neuropsychology; Abnormal Psychology; Introduction to Psychology and Death and Dying. My approach to counseling is client centered; empathetic; non-judgmental; and solution focused aligned with your personal priorities and goals. My client’s drive the direction of treatment and decide when they have reached a level of satisfaction to discontinue therapy. My door is always open for brief, intermediate or long-term depth work. I can't wait to meet you!
Janel Guinane
My career in the helping professions started in 1997 at a residential program in San Francisco working with adults with substance use issues and co-occurring mental health disorders. At this time, one did not need a degree in substance use counseling to work in this area and I was able to gain a great deal of experience. This launched a long road of determination to attain a Bachelor's degree in Social Work in 2008 and then a Master's in Social Work in 2010. Throughout my educational years and afterward, I worked with several different populations such as children, teens, TAY, former foster youth, homeless youth, adults with mental illness, homeless adults, and those arrested for alcohol and/or drug related offenses. I am currently a Program Manager of a Clinic that assesses individuals with mental health disorders for County treatment services as well as a homeless day respite center that connects unhoused persons with housing, food, healthcare, etc. My treatment approach is one that is Client-Centered, Strength's-Based, and Humanistic. I utilize Motivational Interviewing to gain knowledge into my Client's perspective and objectives. I believe that every person in an expert in their own life and that I act only as a guide and collaborator to help my clients reach their goals and enrich their lives. I have had experiences working with those with depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, eating disorders, PTSD, schizophrenia and various other conditions. My goal is to work with the client on their goals and not to give advice, which I find is less than effective. Many times individuals already know what they need and are seeking guidance, clarity, and the care of someone to be authentic and responsive to those needs.
Tanya Roberts
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 20 years of experience working as a therapist in private practice. I have worked with a wide variety of clients, ages 8 to 80, who struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, and trauma. My therapy style is warm and interactive. At times, I may utilize humor to highlight a concern, at other times I may be more directive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. I utilize a cognitive behavioral approach to therapy while incorporating natural and holistic styles in treatment. I also believe in matching the treatment style to the person and not the person to the treatment style. It takes courage to take steps towards change. I am here to listen and offer my support and guidance every step of the way. I have availability for Better Help on Mondays and Fridays. Please note that I do my best to return messages at least once a day, however if I am in session or Tuesday-Thursday when I am working in person it may take me several hours or until the evening time to return messages.
Dr. Karyn Tribble
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California and possess a Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology (PsyD). Discussion of the challenges you are facing, exploration of your life history, insight driven conversations, and patience are important aspects of my personal approach; and compliment my use of cognitive-behavioral, relational, and practical treatment modalities. My therapy style is warm, interactive, non-judgmental, and one that uses humor to develop a respectful and engaging therapeutic relationship. I am trained and have experience both as a consultant and therapist, and may offer faith-based counseling to those who request this support. I value hope and helping individuals to gain clarity to achieve their personal goals. An individual's personal experience is important to me, and I work with them to develop a sense of focus to help them navigate even the most challenging situations. I possess over 25 years of practice in the behavioral health field. Over my career I have worked with many clients, patients, and families within the community, hospital settings, and through many different organizations. I specialize in working with people who have experienced trauma, significant changes in their lives, marital or relationship issues, job or work related concerns, and those suffering from grief or loss. My experience in executive leadership and administration has also afforded many opportunities to serve as a professional coach or mentor to whose looking to improve their educational, relationship, or career paths. My education includes a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Psychology from Howard University; a Master’s degree in Social Service specializing in Practice with Individuals, Families and Groups from Bryn Mawr College in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania; and a Master’s degree and Doctor of Psychology degree in Clinical Psychology from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. I recognize that seeking help can be a difficult step. So I hope that you see this as a testament to your desire for change and your courage. Remember to take one step at a time. I am here to empower you on this journey - and look forward to potentially working with you.
Jodi Pallett
I am licensed in California and Maryland with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.
Christina Harris
I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. 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.
Kandie Brown
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I have a Master’s degree in Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University, San Antonio, TX. I follow a systemic approach to therapy and believe that to understand people and their challenges it is important to understand the systems and relationships they are a part of. I believe that the therapeutic relationship should be one of authenticity, collaboration and one that feels safe and supportive. I focus on the client’s strength and resiliency. I strive to help clients find tools to cope with life’s stresses. I use a humanistic approach, CBT, existential, EMDR, narrative, solution focused, and mindfulness approaches and/or other modalities tailored to the client's needs. I strive to help clients find more adaptive habits that lead to more meaningful and fulfilling lives. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, anger management, trauma, abuse and low-motivation, lack of self-esteem and lack of confidence. I work with my clients in California 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 and empower you in that journey. About me: I enjoy gardening, quilting, researching, reading, walking, hiking, travel and enjoying my dog and family.
Jack Bowman
I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Marni Freedman
I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert on your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. I also have special training in working with writers and artists. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, and I am proud of you for getting started!
Janisse Rothford
I am licensed in California and Nevada with 10 years of professional work experience with the last 7 years as a Military Family Life Counselor. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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. I am currently available M-W. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and you did it, so let's get started!
Ryan Jordan
I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat featur
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Some commonly asked questions can be found below.
How much does a therapist cost?
Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location.
BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.
Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.
How do I know if I should get a therapist?
Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. You do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy; You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions in California can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.
Does insurance cover therapy?
Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.
Is online therapy safe?
Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.
Popular cities in California
- Los Angeles, CA
- San Diego, CA
- San Jose, CA
- San Francisco, CA
- Fresno, CA
- Sacramento, CA
- Long Beach, CA
- Oakland, CA
- Bakersfield, CA
- Anaheim, CA
- Santa Ana, CA
- Riverside, CA
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