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.
John ODonoghue
For 25 years I have had the privilege to help people navigate difficult passages in their lives, in a variety of settings. Give yourself credit for reaching out, because a good therapist during these times can make a huge positive difference. In retrospect you may see that ill fortune, suffering and emotional pain helped you grow, and that without these challenges you may not have learned what you needed to progress. As Eckhart Tolle has said, suffering can be your greatest teacher. I did not become a therapist until midlife, and have had my own share of major life changes, transformations, suffering, and loss. These experiences have deepened my empathy and compassion, which I hope to bring to you. I have learned that creating trust in the therapeutic relationship is a vital part of the process, and like all therapists I am sworn to hold you with unconditional, non-judgmental positive regard. I have earned two Masters Degrees (in Psychology and Counseling Psychology), and hold two licenses – Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Whether you are seeking longer term therapy to illuminate hidden patterns, or solution focused brief therapy for a specific problem, we will tailor our work accordingly to your goals and wishes. I am committed to helping you discover your ability to heal and grow, to listen to your inner wisdom, and find peace, self-acceptance, and self-confidence instead of fear. I have expertise with relationship struggles of all kinds, including dating, and alternate lifestyles. Addiction is a special interest, having developed a comprehensive alternative addiction treatment program in India suitable for any addiction – alcohol, drugs, food, gambling, sex, polysubstance cocktails, internet addictions, and others. I am open minded and abide by the principles of Harm Reduction. As an EAP counselor, I enjoy helping people with workplace and career issues. Other areas of expertise include grief and loss, blended family issues, stress, coping with the narcissists in your life, mild depression, anxiety, social anxiety, procrastination, guilt, anger, self blame, PTSD, family conflict, highly sensitive people, spirituality (mindfulness) and existential issues. I wish you all the best in your journey, and should you choose me, I look forward to working with you.
Kristy Hamilton
My name is Kristy Hamilton, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California, having also worked professionally in Colorado. I work as a Medical/Hospice Social Worker, and have a small private practice called Malibu Walk and Talk Therapy. I have also worked in a dual-diagnosis facility as a Program Manager and therapist, and Clinic as their Behavioral Health Provider. My experience working with individuals and families has covered a wide range of concerns related to stress, mood, parenting, family conflict, moves and life transitions, obsessions and compulsions, addictions, organizational issues, hoarding, workplace issues, care-giver challenges, and aging issues. I grew up and attended a variety of churches over the years as we have moved and spent time abroad, and find that these experiences have enabled me to grow and love the uniqueness of individuals and the place one's past and environment have on the present. The connection between therapist and client is one of the biggest factors for success, and so I will listen to best understand your current situation and concerns. My counseling style is collaborative and interactive, respectful, warm, and practical. I draw from cognitive-behavioral, client and solution-focused, motivational, attachment-based, existential, and dialectical behavior therapies. I focus primarily on present circumstances and work collaboratively to better understand one's past and environment, and to adjust unproductive patterns of thinking and behaving as you move forward. My license allows me to provide professional counseling in California and Colorado, and am available via phone, live chat, or video for counseling sessions almost every day of the week since my schedule is flexible. The life experience I have as a parent and professional may be very helpful for you as you courageously reach out during this time. I want you to get the short or long-term support and counsel best suited for you and your present situation.
Tiffany Irving
My name is Tiffany Irving, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California and Nevada. I earned my undergraduate degree from Bethany University where I participated in leadership and collegiate basketball. My Graduate degree was obtained from Santa Clara University in 2013 with a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology. Taking a person centered approach I am passionate about helping others find safe places to go with their pain and discover more about who they are and their unique journey with a nonjudgemental stance. In this current health crisis I meet each client where they are. Helping those in need cope with anxiety, depression, and stress currently impacting our communities. I strive to facilitate growth in those who want progress and are willing to put in the work. Staying focused on honesty as the best policy in a therapeutic relationship, we will work together to improve coping and move towards a fuller and more balanced life. I have many interests such as traveling, exercising, meeting new people, cooking and I am quite the foodie. I enjoy creative things such as photography, painting, art expression, and music.
Luis Martinez
Hello, my name is Luis Martinez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I have been in the Mental Health field for over 5 years and have worked in a variety of settings which has been able to provide me with the experience to better understand my clients. Using a client centered approach together we can decide on an appropriate treatment plan to help you overcome the struggles you are facing and tackle your challenges head-on. My preferred modality is Solution Focused Therapy, which is based on what you are already doing well an to help you realize that your strengths are the answer to your concerns and sometimes you just need help seeing them. Therapy in reality boils down to these few things, you want consistency, structure, and to an extent some predictability in your life. The uncertainty and the day to day stressors have all piled up and you just want to be free of everything getting in your way that's keeping you from your ideal future or perhaps your ideal state of mind. Weird thing is you already have what it takes to achieve your desired outcome, you just need someone to guide that process.
Mary Stein
Welcome, My name is Mary Stein and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling at Phillips Graduate Institute and became licensed in 1999. Throughout my career of over twenty years, I have enjoyed working with individuals, couples and families. In particular, my work includes helping clients who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, addictions, grief and life challenges. In my wide range of experience , I have worked with clients in private practice; in addition, as clinical supervisor in adolescent residential programs, and in a domestic violence agency. HOW I WORK My counseling style is warm, accepting and interactive. I believe in being respectful, kind and providing a safe environment and positive feedback for each client. Together, we will explore what has brought you to the point of seeking treatment. Then, from there we will determine the most effective methods and tools to help bring you to a better place in life. It is important in approaching each therapy with compassion and make every effort to assist clients improve their ability to have healthy and fulfilling lives. I believe it is always a privilege to be a part of another's emotional journey striving towards self-awareness, learning and healing. As a therapist, the fulfillment comes not only in the growth of clients but also in the ripple effect on others in their lives. THERAPY APPROACHES * Humanistic (person centered) approach where a therapeutic relationship is maintained that is accepting, collaborative, authentic and that gives consideration to where an individual is in their life and takes into accounts goals, expectations, and strengths. * Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) usually involves efforts to recognize one's distortions in thinking that are creating problems, gain better understanding of the behavior, learning adaptive ways to manage their feelings and using problem solving skills to cope in more functional ways. * Existential therapy assists clients to find meaning and purpose in their lives. It is designed to help overcome essential issues and embrace one's choices and empowerment. Taking small steps will lend to larger changes and progress. Thank you for the opportunity to work together, Mary Stein
Thomas "Tom" Prinz
I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. Prior to having a private practice as a Marriage and Family Therapist for 35 years I was a school psychologist for 5 years. Currently I volunteer to teach a class on addictions and anger management at City Team, Oakland, Ca., a residential program for men. I have been a volunteer at city team for over 4 years. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss, parenting, marriage, domestic violence, anxiety and depression. I have written and published 6 books on personal, parenting and marriage issues. My most recent books are; Changes, one person can make a difference and The first pictorial self help book for men who don’t read. Two other books I have written are: Winning at a Losing Game and The Lost Aspect of Love. I encourage my clients to follow up each session with specific homework that I can provide.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. My wife, Pam, and I have been married for 55 years, we have three adult children and 4 grandchildren.
Judith Crane
I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Dr. Yesenia Teran
Hello, my name is Dr. Yessy Teran , I am an LMFT and DMFT. I obtained my degree from Loma Linda University in 2021. I have worked with people and families who have been living with chronic medical conditions, most recently specializing in HIV/AIDS and the LGBTQ population. I approach therapy through a family systems approach and attachment therapy.
Marilyn Ramirez-Torres
I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience in Mental Health Services. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, lgbtq+ related issues, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder and bipolar disorder. 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!
Dr. Michael Kaltenbach
I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Yvonne Estrada
I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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!
Tiffani Walton
I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 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.
Devon Doan Ortiz
I am licensed in California with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, & anger management. 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!
Lillian Strom
I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. 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. 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.
Arease Edison
I believe the most beautiful thing is our ability to be vulnerable... it's what makes us human. I have found that when you slow down and check in with yourself, you may come across the most amazing person...YOU! Many of us are disconnected from ourselves and it's evident across various life domains. Learning to identify your needs and get them met is your responsibility. Exploring various parts of ourselves increases chances that we will have a more meaningful existence. Much of the work I am blessed to do with clients, is providing them with a safe space to land mentally and emotionally. Understanding the complexities we face in black and brown communities makes this interpersonal work meaningful. Therapy is not taboo and asking for help does not equate to weakness, rather strength and courage. As we become healed, whole and well, we contribute positively to our family, friends and our community. I find meaning in helping others identify their needs and use words not behaviors to get them met... we are deserving of this. I want each person I am called to work with to know they deserve to be authentically seen and validated and we don't need anything outside of ourselves to be whole. Once we are healed from past hurts, we can become whole (lacking nothing) and then practice wellness to stay grounded. Be well. XoXo Dr. Edison
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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat featur
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
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.
Popular cities in California
- Los Angeles, CA
- San Diego, CA
- San Jose, CA
- San Francisco, CA
- Fresno, CA
- Sacramento, CA
- Long Beach, CA
- Oakland, CA
- Bakersfield, CA
- Anaheim, CA
- Santa Ana, CA
- Riverside, CA
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