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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Kaniecia Mixon

Offering therapy in California
License: MS,LMFT
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Welcome to my profile. I am so glad you are here and chose courage over comfort in reaching out for help. My name is Kaniecia Mixon and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with about 10 years of experience providing behavioral support and therapy. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, social relationship issues, parenting problems, life changes, anger issues, and ADHD. I also have helped many people who have experienced trauma including physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. I have my B.A. in Psychology and my M.S. in Counseling/Marriage and Family Therapy. Most of my experience has been with individuals and families in crisis stabilization, creating safety plans, identifying and developing healthy coping skills, increasing natural supports, and increasing knowledge and awareness of their struggles. I have provided therapy and behavioral support to individuals 5-19. I have been a Therapeutic Behavioral Services Clinician who provided case management and assisted parents with learning parenting strategies to better manage their child's behaviors. I am currently a Program Supervisor to clinical staff who provide those same therapeutic services to people ages 0-21. My counseling style is warm, authentic, and collaborative. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, generosity, and meeting them where they are without stigmatizing labels. I believe that everyone knows what is needed for themselves and I aim to walk alongside you in identifying those needs and goals and supporting and holding you accountable to meeting the goals you set. I have a trauma-informed, strengths-based, and eclectic approach which combines person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, psychodynamic, motivational interviewing, mindfulness practices, and and any other approaches that are needed. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I enjoy incorporating art, creativity, and play into therapy! It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to journeying with you!

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Maureen McEachen

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepression
10 years of experience

I am an LCSW specializing in life transitions, grief and loss. Having relocated 20 years ago to California from the Washington, DC area where I primarily focused on mental health and depression, I began to concentrate on the importance of coping and supporting healthy navigation of life's challenges. I received a specialty credential in Hospice and Palliative care with an emphasis on helping individuals and families through serious illness and the loss of a loved one. I would be honored to talk through part of your life's journey with you!

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Kim Connolly

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
35 years of experience

Hello, My name is Kim. I am a seasoned therapist who has been in the mental health field for over 30 years. Most of that time has been in the nonprofit world. I have had the privilege of working with multitudes of folks, some short term, most long term. In that time, I have worked with a very wide variety of client concerns including personal growth, depression, anxiety, PTSD, attachment disorders, relationship problems, parenting issues, teen issues, grief, loss and coping with physical pain. I have a long history of counseling folks who have experienced physical, emotional, or sexual abuse and everything that now comes with that. And lately everything that has changed with the experiences of COVID, in our school, work and homes. I am a warm, interactive, and empathetic therapist. I respect that all of us have to move through life at our own pace and I will respect that with you. Your pace, where you want to go and how you want to get there. I will be direct and honest with you. I have used many different styles of therapy, depending on what my client needs and what makes them comfortable. Some of these include family systems, solution focused, existential, cognitive and psychodynamic. I also have a great belief in the healing power of loving humor. I think I have been involved in mental health for most of my life. Both of my parents were in related fields. I left my undergrad college my 3rd year to intern in a group home in Nevada City, Ca. From that point on, I worked on and off there while I went to Cal State Chico. I then worked many jobs in the field for several years before and during the time I got my Masters in Counseling at Sonoma State University and my subsequent Marriage and Family Therapy license. These days I live in a beautiful area of Ca. near the ocean. Everyone here seems to have a dog. I have one, but given a choice and the space, I would have more! I’ve always had dogs, growing up with them, then fostering them for a rescue, working with them for a humane society and then boarding them for awhile. There really is NOTHING like 5 dogs in your bed at night! Dogs are wonderful companions, can always make me laugh and are always there when you are feeling down. If I sound like a therapist that would work for you, let’s get started.

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Sarah Tasker

Offering therapy in California
License: MA Counseling Psychology
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsEating disordersParenting issuesCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Life is full of challenges that can often leave you powerless, overwhelmed, and stuck. Living during a pandemic has greatly caused increased anxiety, and stress is at an all time high. If you or your family members are suffering, struggling to connect, experiencing trouble in finding stability or progress in your life, the process of therapy can help support your growth and self-esteem through these challenging times. I currently work in a school setting and work with elementary students, teens, adults and families. I work with individuals and families who experience anxiety, stress, difficult transitions, trauma or loss, friendship struggles, career changes, eating disorders, and relational stress - going through a separation or divorce. I feel it is important to encourage, inspire, and support individuals and families through person centered and collaborative therapy so that individuals can be the best version of themselves. I want to empower you so that you may be healthy, happy, and at peace at this point in your life. Life can be hard, but I believe you are capable of doing hard things.

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Sonia Vasquez

Offering therapy in California
Family conflictsGrief
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts & coping with grief and loss. 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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Mark Duarte

Offering therapy in California
LGBTTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
46 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 45 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping individuals with identity and purpose related issues. Life presents us with dilemmas and opportunities each new day. My practice is to be present with individuals to resolve issues of dysphoria, and help to learn , practice, to resolve personal and social dysfunction. I strive to treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. In our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I recognize 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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Jacki Stevens

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changesCoaching
23 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional work experience in intense settings of crisis, to more sedate lifestyle refocusing. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, intimacy related issues, & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of you, and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you, even if it doesn't feel that way right now. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and wisdom in knowing that you want improvement to your life's goals.

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Natalie Fifer

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. For many people, trusting a stranger with your story, emotions and feelings can be overwhelming. However, psychotherapy can be a useful tool for anyone. Therapy is for anyone looking for outside supportI believe that it is important to build a more dynamic relationship through a collaborative effort utilizing techniques acquired through my years of schooling and experienceI will customize my approach to meet each person's needs. Through empathy we will deepen the therapeutic bond that leads to better results. I will make every effort to make sure you feel understood and supported I will do my best to communicate suggestions concisely and clearlyI will analyze symptoms presented and offer you an explanation of what reasons might be contributing to the symptoms you are experiencing.

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Christine Logan

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsLGBTSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 29 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, LGBTQ+ related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I look forward to hearing from you.

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Tessa Cosand

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 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 also have provided therapy for individuals struggling with addiction from substance use. 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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