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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Jared Maloney

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hello and welcome. Allow me to share with you a little bit about my experience and how I approach therapy. I have five years of experience working as a therapist with teens, adults, couples and families. Helping people manage their thoughts and emotions in a healthy way that improves their experience in the world. I’ve worked with clients who were worried, anxious, grieving, feeling lost, sad, depressed, struggled with self worth, intrusive thoughts, addiction, relationships and anger management. I’ve also helped coach people on how to reach goals, find what direction they wanted to go in and create a deeper sense of meaning and purpose in their life. I’m always willing to find the style or technique that will be the most helpful for my clients but here are style I use the most: Client centered- letting you guide us to what you feel needs to be addressed and working on that together. Holistic - including all the parts that make you who you are, such as your thoughts, feelings, physical sensations, hopes, spirituality and relationships. Depth Psychology- explores what things mean for you, why you react to things the way you do, what is your unconscious may be saying to you. Psychosynthesis – working with all the parts of your personality healthy way, building personal recourses to improve your life. Solution focused – building self esteem by setting and achieving goals and knowing your self worth. CBT- becoming more aware of your thoughts and what you can do to change them. Some of the techniques I’ve incorporated in the past are journaling, art, guided meditations, dream analysis, mindfulness practices, somatic exercises (I don’t mean going to the gym, but that could be helpful) and role-play. My goal is to help you find your way through whatever it is you’re going through and to develop tools and skills that you can use for the rest of your life. If this sounds like something that would be helpful for you I look forward to hearing from you.

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Bethany Maroney-Peterson

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT,MA Psychology,BA Social Work
Trauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementDepressionCompassion fatigue
16 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 14 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I hold a Masters Degree in Psychology, A Bachelors Degree in Social Work and have advanced training in trauma, PTSD, Anxiety Disorders and Depression, Human Development and other things. I am also certified in Combat Mental Health and have experience working with Veterans and their families. I utilize a variety of approaches including; Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, Trauma Focused and Dialectical Behavioral therapies with a Strength based approach. I believe in working collaboratively with clients and that while we may not have all of the answers, together we can work towards building the skills clients need to have healthy and long lasting relationships and lives. I have a warm, relaxed and open style of working with clients and strive to cater treatment modalities and interventions to meet the individual needs of my clients.

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Michelle Stanton White

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteem
9 years of experience

Life is difficult and, at one time or another, everyone needs extra support. I am here to help you alleviate your anxiety, grief, depression... whatever that has brought you here today. Perhaps you only need some assistance to resolve a problem or to deal with a difficult relationship. You have made the right decision to get some help. I left a successful career in the computer industry to become a Marriage and Family Therapist because I love helping people lead better lives. I’m an active therapist, collaborating with my clients to help them recognize self-defeating behavior, change their perspective, and make the right choice. I may use one or more empirically-supported techniques—Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused, Strategic Family, Motivational Interviewing, etc.—depending on the situation. But fundamentally, I believe change can only occur if my clients and I have a warm, trusting relationship. My goal is to help you move beyond your current difficulties so that you can achieve a happier and more productive life.

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Walter Nielson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefAnger managementDepression
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, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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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Dr. Daniel Ringhoff

Offering therapy in California
License: PhD,LCSW
AddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
17 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Florida with over 15 years of experience working as a counselor and psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, addiction, career challenges, parenting problems, and involvement in the legal system. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm, interactive, and non-judgmental. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and that people are the experts of their own life. I also believe in challenging people to see different perspectives. My approach combines mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and rational-emotive counseling. I focus on your goals and tailor treatment to meet your needs. It takes courage to seek a happier life and make a commitment to change. If you are ready to take that step forward into the unknown, I am here to provide guidance, empowerment and support so you can get where you want to go. I look forward to working with you!

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Mallory Wilson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping teens and young adults with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, 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.

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Patricia Loy

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I have helped individuals , couples, and families to have better communication and overall better relationships. I have helped individuals with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, lack of motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor your treatment 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.

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Dr. Virginia Christophe

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
36 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 36 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, couples counseling, family conflicts, and 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. 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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Yvonne Vermillion

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionCompassion fatigue
29 years of experience

As a licensed LMFT California clinician and researcher for over 35 years, I hold a Doctorate in Psychology and advanced degrees in art, as well as teaching certificates for public, private, and Montessori schools. I have presented anti-bullying presentations at numerous elementary schools, both in New Jersey and California where I empowered individuals to alter their uncomfortable world. Although my therapeutic orientation is eclectic, I have been extensively trained in solution focused, cognitive behavioral brief therapy which is highly strategic, exploratory, and solution based rather than problem oriented. Together we will develop an individual treatment plan and you will leave the very first session with concrete strategies that will foster hope and improve the quality of your life. My primary theoretical focus is based on Murray Bowen and Carl centered family systems. These systems have proved over and over again to be effective, not only with families, but successfully treat all realms of individual and relationship issues to address such areas as depression, abuse, anger management, loss and grief, parenting issues, bullying, and many other challenging life transitions, to help facilitate positive growth and maturity. I prefer video or regular calls in lieu of texts between sessions. However, if you do decide to text me, I will do my best to respond in a timely manner. As you read and consider my profile, I would like to thank you for the courage it takes if you agree to begin your therapeutic journey with me.

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Robert Thompson

Offering therapy in California
LGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California as a Marriage and Family Therapist with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ related issues, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, and abuse. I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. My approach to therapy is eclectic and Person-Centered: I try my best to meet clients where they are, understanding the background, experiences, strengths, and skills that will support their growth and development, and catering an approach that will be effective for each individual. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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