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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Hai Nguyen

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT,Substance Abuse Certification
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteem
15 years of experience

I am honored to have the opportunity to meet you and explore areas of the heart, mind, and soul with you. I have fallen in love with studying "love" since a young age. It occurred to me that life gives us many paradoxes/contradictions such as: "Go through pain in order to heal". Since my awareness opened up to the vast internal world of the human mind, I strive to find the answer. In the combination of my teaching career (online Professor - Psychology, health/human services/Philosophy) and psychotherapy, I was given the gift of a special journey in revealing the invisible components in life - especially our internal world. I have personal and professional experience in diverse areas (gangs, addiction, violence, mood disorders, relationship dynamics, family connection, and many areas within the interpersonal/intrapersonal realm). In addition, I hold a special awareness for cultural sensitivity as well, and the assimilation process onto areas of adaptation and acculturation. I began viewing life with analytical, philosophical, and emotional perception at an early age as life became difficult since I could remember. When I had finally turned my life around and attended college, I was inspired by many individuals. From this, I earned a position with my previous professor as his T.A in stress management. From there, I moved onto graduate school after attaining my Psychology degree. During my Marriage and Family therapy program, I continued to teach. The last year of my studies I was honored to work as an intern at non-profit agency where I delivered therapeutic services to a vast array of different populations: Onsite therapist for a middle school and high school (pre-teens and teens). I also worked with couple's, anger management, domestic violence, family/individual therapy at the main facility. I was then given the chance to work as an online professor at Ashford University after completing my Master's degree, where I continued to do so until this day. After graduation I moved onto working with children with Autism Spectrum disorder (minority population) for over a year. Finally, I traveled into the work on dual diagnosis/addiction, where I started as a part-time therapist and moved towards becoming the primary therapist, and then the clinical director for the whole facility. From my journey, I have been given the privilege to uphold a vast array of experiences, even to the extent of online gaming addiction. My main focus now lies in areas of emotional connection (relationships - family, couples', and even with yourself), grief/loss, mood disorders, addiction, and education.

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Christina Kohfield

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepression
22 years of experience

Hello! Thank you for reading my profile. I am a marriage and family therapist (LMFT) licensed in California with over 20 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, issues pertaining to sexuality, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and issues pertaining to spirituality. I also helped many people who have experienced physical and sexual trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and down to earth. My goal is to create an environment where you feel at ease talking about what is in your heart and on your mind. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and psycho-dynamic counseling. And I love Tapping! Tapping is a really great technique to destress and process intense feelings. With that said, each person is different and has different needs. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is about teaming up to give you the insight, inner wisdom and motivation to make the changes you want in your life. We will come up with a plan to work on improving your current situation. Some people simply need a compassionate person to hear them out. Some people may want a concrete action plan with steps and advise on how to proceed. Our work is to collaborate and come up with a plan that would be most effective in meeting your needs. On a practical matter, my office hours are between 9 am and 8 pm, Tuesday through Thursday. I will respond to messages within 24 hours. If you would like a video chat session during a time that is not listed, please send me a message and we may be able to work out scheduling a time that works for both of our schedules. "Out of clutter, find simplicity. Out of discord, find harmony. In the middle of difficulty, lies opportunity." Albert Einstein "The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts: therefore, guard accordingly, and take care that you entertain no notions unsuitable to virtue and reasonable nature." Marcus Aurelius I look forward to working with you! Respectfully, Christina Kohfield, LMFT 78980

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Dr. Carol Schmidt

Offering therapy in California
License: Ph.D., LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Do you feel isolated and alone, trying to cope with the ramifications of Covid19? Are you struggling, worrying about your family, your job, and the future? Do you have feelings and thoughts that trouble you? Emotional stress has known effects on physical health, so maybe now is the time to take care of yourself and sort things out. I am an energetic, approachable, and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with an MSW from UCLA and a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from USC. I have 10+ years of experience providing integrative psychological therapy, treating anxiety, depression, relationship, and family conflict, as well as grief. I utilize CBT, Psychodynamic, Positive Psychology, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Psychotherapy improves awareness of needs, appreciation of strengths, and a deeper understanding of stressors. I look forward to helping you feel better and I feel confident that you will meet your personal therapeutic goals. We will work together as a collaborative team to improve your overall life satisfaction.

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Dina Velazquez

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

Hello, my name is Dina Velazquez and I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist currently living on the east coast. I have over ten years experience as a therapist, in both the Community Mental Health model and doing clinical assessments for a health insurance carrier. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling at Pacifica Graduate Institue in Carpinteria, CA. My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, and substance use issues. My approach is client centered while also incorporating the use of other skills including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, solution focused and some Cognitive Behavioral therapies. I feel that each of our experiences are unique, and may require different avenues to attain wellness. Also experienced in: Addictions , LGBT , Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Physical Disabilities, Coping with life changes

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Rajan Christian

Offering therapy in California
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

My favorite clientele are adolescents, young adults, professionals, couples, and families. I address relational issues, family conflicts, depression, suicidality, underachievement, failure to launch, and lack of meaning or purpose in life. I have extensive experience with adolescents and adults in both non-profit and for profit settings, as well as on an outpatient and inpatient basis. I have worked for non-profit corporations, county behavioral health, school districts, and privately-owned for profit corporations. I am trained in EMDR, Trauma Resiliency and worked directly for several years with suicidal adolescents and adults on a crisis response team.

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Alfred Gomes

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
14 years of experience

Hello and welcome to my profile. First, I'd like to express recognition to you for taking the first step to addressing what concerns, challenges, and issues that may be happening for you. It takes courage to take the first step of reaching out for assistance to increase your quality of life. We live in an ever changing world and as human beings we are constantly evolving and adapting to change. Life can be overwhelming, unpredictable, and challenging. I would love the opportunity be of help to you in your journey to feel better, healthier, and motivated. I have many years of experience working with youth, families, and individuals. I am truly passionate about helping others gain introspective knowledge about themselves in an effort to heal past traumas, gain self-confidence, increase self-love, reignite passions, set and work toward SMART goals, and shift perspectives. I use a variety of modalities. I individually customize treatment approaches to each client I work with. I am a professional who offers a clean, relaxed, comfortable, confidential, safe, positive, therapeutic setting for you to express yourself free from critical judgement. I consider myself a kind, friendly, attentive therapist. I will do my best to provide you with consistent, quality care and treatment throughout our time working together.

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Roya Haghighat

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with depression. 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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Frances He

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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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Alexandra Kahn

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience

II am licensed Christian therapist in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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 a Christian therapist who knows how important it is to have God in my life and incorporate faith into sessions.

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Haley Flores

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping 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, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with 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 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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