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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Brigette Girardey

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
13 years of experience

Hello! My name is Brigette and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in East Bay, California. I have 10 years experience working with clients, providing therapeutic counseling services. I have worked with a diverse population of clients ranging from children, teens, adults, and elders. I provide services for individuals and families assisting with issues such as depression, isolation, anxiety, self esteem, trauma, loss, relationship issues, parenting issues, and more. I enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds and I value genuineness and collaboration with my clients. I provide a safe and supportive holding environment that is authentic and nonjudgmental in nature. I tailor my specific approach depending on client situation, needs, and goals for therapy. As well as draw from theories such as CBT, Solution Focused, Family Systems, and Client Centered modalities. Growth and change are encouraged through self reflection and finding practical solutions to problems. Making a change can feel overwhelming and scary, but if you are ready to take the first step and begin the road to a new way of life, I am here to help uplift and support you! I appreciate your courage and I look froward to hearing from you!

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Cristian Iordan

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

Trained at Loma Linda University licensed as Marital and Family Therapist and Ordained as Minister, I have experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings with youth and adults dealing with a variety of mental health issues. Licensed in California, with over 12 years of experience I specialize in treatment for Anxiety, Depression, Medical professionals' mental health, Premarital counseling, Spirituality & religion based issues. My approach to psychotherapeutic treatment resembles a gym workout: first there is the hard, challenging and often frustrating work, followed by a rewarding sense of peaceful healing. Knowing that change is often challenging, I assist and accompany my patients to explore and embrace the benefits of positive change throughout the entire journey of healing. Humans are fascinating masterpieces; the human mind - a captivating marvel! In the course of life's journey many experiences shape who we are, who we become. Our ability to adapt to circumstances is not the only asset to navigate life, as our mind has the amazing ability to affect a positive transformation: "be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Romans 12:2

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David Bonfanti

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT # 43891
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefParenting issues
20 years of experience

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist having worked in the mental health field approximately 25 years , having worked with most populations. My approach is straightforward: " The problem is not the problem, the reaction to the problem is the problem." We can not change the past, we must accept what has happened, but with a renewed sense of empowerment and hope we can forge ahead to experience the quality of life we want and deserve. We often feel worse when we commence therapy, as self-examination is painful at times. That said, in the end, we will hopefully develop the skill set to manage whatever challenges come our way. Let's take the judgment out of our lives and move forward in the high calling of our daily lives.

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Tony Lee

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

Hello. My name is Tony Lee. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of professional work experience, including suicide prevention service, crisis intervention, and general counseling. I received a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of South Florida. I have worked with individuals of all ages dealing with chronic medical conditions, end-stage illnesses, and physical disabilities. Also, I have experience helping clients with general stress, anxiety, self-esteem/self-confidence, motivation, coping with loss/grief, and LGBT-related issues. I use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy with Client-Centered and Solution-Focused approach. If you're interested in mindfulness techniques, I can guide your practice. I believe in treating everyone with respect, empathy, and compassion. I will tailor the treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs while being mindful of cultural values. 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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Cynthia Roe

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQI+ -related issues, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with depression and mood dysregulation. I also have a passion for working with individual and families impacted by cancer. 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.

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Dr. Tara Neavins

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersAnger management
18 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, lgbt-related issues, trauma and abuse, & sleeping disorders. 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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Kery Silva

Offering therapy in California
LGBTCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and a Licensed Independent Mental Health Independent Practitioner/Clinical Social Worker in Nebraska. I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ related issues, career difficulties, coping with life changes, & executive and professional coaching. 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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Anim Aweh

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression. I am passionate about holding space for the BIPOC community. 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 a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Pauline Padrul

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California with over twenty years of professional work experience in behavioral health treatment. I also have a Master's degree in Public Health with a strong interest in behavioral epidemiology. I have worked with clients who typically present with stress and anxiety, eating disorders, motivation, self esteem issues & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths with which to overcome challenges and build resilience.

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Dr. Ann 'Annie' Vance

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Hawaii with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and abuse, as well as, helping with 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. Taking the first step to seek a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. You've started the journey, I am here to support you in that process. I continue to grow and learn through Continuing Education Courses. I have a Doctorate in Christian Counseling Psychology to support Faith-based clients who want that, and respect those who only want secular psychology.

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Melody Williams

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. 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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Obdulia Hernandez

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
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, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. 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. 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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Maria Favela Castro

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
4 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in trauma-informed, culturally responsive therapy for individuals, couples, and families. My approach is grounded in cultural humility and evidence-based practices, including EMDR and CBT, and I provide therapy in both English and Spanish. I work with clients across a range of backgrounds, helping them feel respected, understood, and empowered in their healing journey. Throughout my career, I have focused on supporting individuals with a variety of needs, from personal and relational challenges to more complex issues such as substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. In addition to individual and family therapy, I facilitate group sessions, lead crisis interventions, and collaborate with community resources to offer comprehensive, long-term support. I also have a strong foundation in child and family services, where I’ve worked extensively with youth and adults experiencing trauma, behavioral challenges, and life transitions. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can openly explore their struggles and receive guidance tailored to their unique strengths and circumstances. Whether you’re seeking to overcome personal challenges, improve family dynamics, or navigate a difficult transition, I am here to support you with compassion, empathy, and dedication. Together, we’ll work toward achieving your mental health and wellness goals, building resilience and hope for the future.

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Eseoghene Oniwor

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

Thank you for choosing me as your provider. My name is Eseoghene (s-e) I am licensed in California as a Marriage and Family Therapist with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I work with my clients to address their concerns and improve their well-being. 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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Evelynn Hernandez-Brown

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issues
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, & relationship issues. 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 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:

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.

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