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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Sonia Blue

Offering therapy in California
License: M.A.,L.M.F.T.,
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Change is possible and we DO get better! I have experienced this personally and have witnessed it again and again in my 30 years as a psychotherapist. I have been privileged to accompany countless individuals, couples and families on their journey to health and wholeness. Healing the past, relating to others with greater intimacy and authenticity, communicating more effectively and creating meaning as we grow and change are just some of the possibilities positive, compassionate and effective therapy can offer. If your problems could be solved by good advice alone, you would have figured them out long ago. Problems that are difficult confound your efforts to move forward leaving you stuck. Let's have a DIFFERENT KIND OF CONVERSATION one that moves you towards clarity, changes behaviors and results in your feeling and doing better. I provide a confidential environment for you to come as you are and discover the internal resources that you already possess. I offer the patience for you to work through the difficulties that constrict you and I'll give the wisdom, empathy and support you deserve for the willingness it takes to begin this journey. *If you have questions about the benefits of psychotherapy watch this short animated clip called "Psychotherapy" on Vimeo. https://vimeo.com/134193131

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Alyssa Vida

Offering therapy in California
License: MA, ,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
7 years of experience

My name is Alyssa Vida and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT#96704). I’m so glad you’ve made the decision to start personal therapy through BetterHelp. Not only is therapy a wonderful opportunity for problem solving, but it can also serve as a catalyst for personal growth and improved quality of life. I strongly believe most problems have solutions and sometimes all it takes is a fresh perspective. I also believe that you are the “expert of you,” meaning you know yourself best. My approach is collaborative, so I will let you set the agenda for each session. As we work together we will discuss your current challenges as well as barriers to your goals, and we will use this increased insight to develop attainable solutions that work for you. I most often utilize a "client-centered approach" but draw heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused, and Family Systems frameworks. My ultimate goal will be for you to leave each session feeling more capable, confident, and empowered to make changes. My main job will be to assist you with setting goals for yourself and identifying any unhelpful thoughts/ patterns of behavior which are getting in the way of you leading the life you’d like to lead. I will also help you to identify more personal strengths and teach you coping skills for stressors as they arise. As a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist, I'm trained to work with individuals, couples, family units, and children. I have vast experience in the field of counseling and have been fortunate to work in a variety of settings ranging from community mental health, to private practice, to school-based, and most recently, for the military. I hold a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and a special certification in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). I'm passionate about empowering individuals with tools for self advocacy, problem solving, increased self awareness, and resiliency, and look forward to working with you! Specialties: Anger Management Anxiety, Stress, and Depression Autism Spectrum Disorders Crisis Intervention Domestic Violence Family Systems Special Needs/ Social Skills Trauma Treatment Approach/ Orientation: Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) Strength Based

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Kimberly Brooks

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

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience counseling and life coaching. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, anger issues, career challenges, grief, and many other challenging issues. I have also helped many people who have experienced diverse types of traumas. My therapy style is warm and compassionate, but direct and honest. I provide a holistic perspective, am interactive and empathetic. I will give you an opportunity to be transparent while providing safety and sensitivity. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, and solution-focused approaches. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes great courage to seek a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and encourage you. I look forward to working with you!

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Michele Rowland-Bird

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
28 years of experience

I have been a licensed clinical social worker for over 28 years in California. My clinical experience includes working with children, families and adults, including those who are or have been in the foster care system. I am someone who enjoys listening and working with all different kinds of people; I believe that everyone deserves to live their best lives, and therapy is an excellent path to achieve that goal. In my practice, I teach cognitive behavioral skills, assisting clients to identify their inaccurate thoughts and change them to thoughts that are grounded in reality. Once thoughts begin changing, feelings and actions also change, allowing for new healing experiences. This approach is particularly effective for people who are experiencing depression and anxiety. Please note that I do not practice either messaging therapy or couples therapy. Beginning the wellness journey is a courageous step, and I look forward to working with you!

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Erin Eiland

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) licensed in California with over 5 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, and families. Most recently, I was working with children, teens, and families in foster care/adoption cases their homes and at school providing individual therapy, family therapy, and crisis support services. I have experience in working with clients that have a wide range of concerns including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse, ADHD, anger management, and relationship issues. My approach to therapy is client-centered, strength-based, solution-focused, and individualized to the client’s interests, values, goals, and strengths. I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in sessions, and art activities/interventions when appropriate. I am always open to adjusting sessions to fit the person’s needs and preferences. I look forward to working with you!

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Janet Plankenhorn

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. My areas of interest include, family or relational conflict, young adults, grief, life transitions, anxiety, depression and women's issues. I would love to help you start the process of healing. I can help you identify patterns in your life that may not be helpful anymore. 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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Nancy Lichtenstein

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related 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.

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Tina Paxton

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
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, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Juho Kim

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping 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 and anxiety, anger management, 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. 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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Alana Quinones

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with 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. 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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Janice Tamkin

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
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, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy based on the individuals need, drawing from cognitive behavioral and insight-oriented therapies. 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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Linda Uribe

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
18 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & career difficulties. 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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Leah Jackson

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepressionCoping 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 relationship issues, family & work conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & 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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Angela Diamante

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, & 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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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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