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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Sydney Erskine

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
AddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

My name is Sydney. I am a licensed MFT in the state of California. I completed my Masters in Psychology in 1994 and received my license as of January 2000. I have worked in centers for addiction treatment, dual diagnosis, and private practice in the bay area. I utilize a holistic approach with my clients customizing treatment as appropriate for the individual. This allows for the integration of our bio-psycho-social-spiritual self. My theoretical background includes, but is not limited to, in brief, Psychodynamics, and Bowen; investigating the systematic learned behavior of your past that has brought you to this moment, Humanism; providing a safe, compassionate, empathic, respectful pathway to guide you in uncovering and discovering your true essential self, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy; practical, realistic, tangible tools to apply to conflictual thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I have a deep appreciation, respect, and compassion for what it takes to summon the courage to seek counseling. In my career as a therapist, I have had the privilege to be of service to individuals seeking positive change in their lives. It is of vital importance to see my clients as they are; individual, distinct, and worthy, they deserve no less and usually much more. Together, we begin by assessing the issues that compelled you to seek counseling at this time in your life. Through a whole life approach, we will examine the bio-psycho-social-spiritual aspects of your life. We will collaborate to gain insight, create measurable goals, find and develop the value and meaning of these discoveries and implement deliberate actions redirecting your focus to transform your life to be one of authenticity, actionable internal motivation, and transformational change. I look forward to helping you develop and achieve meaningful change in your life. Let's work together.

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Zachary Martin

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Thank you for your consideration. I come by my profession honestly. I have always been known as a calming individual in my social circle. This led me to a helping profession early on. I worked in adult residential facilities for persons with development disabilities while I pursued my education. In 2008, I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and a minor in psychology. My philosophy degree is uncommon for a therapist. However, I believe that greatly assists my work. This is especially relevant with CBT and existential crisis work. I graduated with my master’s degree in Social Work in 2013. My post graduate experience includes foster/adoption work, child welfare investigations, inpatient hospitalization, interdisciplinary teams, and outpatient therapy. My diverse experience gives me a strong perspective of the contributing factors that lead to mental illness. I have been practicing outpatient therapy for the last four years. My therapeutic approach draws upon cognitive behavioral, narrative, mindfulness, solution focused, motivational interviewing, and psychodynamic theories. My primary goal is to create a comfortable environment for patients in which they are able to freely express themselves. From there, I work closely with patients to find interventions that will produce results for them.

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Dianna Zuniga

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW,PPSC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
21 years of experience

Hello, my name is Dianna Zuniga and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of California. I have 20 years of experience providing individual, group, couples counseling and family counseling. I have worked within a multitude of settings such as mental health clinics, substance abuse clinic, as well as working in public and private school settings. I have experience in evidenced based practice therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), solution focused therapy, and trauma focused therapy. I would describe my therapeutic approach as warm and empathic. I meet my clients where they are while providing therapy and support that empowers my clients. I strive to provide a safe, respectful, and nonjudgemental environment. My goal is to assist my clients in building practice and use of skills that can help when dealing with life challenges, as well as becoming the best versions of themselves. Together we will collaborative to discover strategies and solutions that work best for you. You took the first step by beginning the exploration for better well-being. I look forward to working with you to help you heal, obtain insight for personal growth, and become the best version of yourself.

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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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Georgina Cortez

Offering therapy in California
License: Lmft
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California with 10 years of experience in providing direct mental health and behavioral counseling. I have worked with individuals age 5 to adult with a variety of presenting issues including parent/child relationships, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, self-care. My experience is varied and across settings, I have worked with children and adults in their homes, in the community, in school setting in a mental health agency, via telehealth. My therapy style and approach draw influence from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and person Centered therapy. Life as we know it, can be a bit overwhelming at times and once we get caught in the middle of some kind of struggle, it can be difficult to find the way out. The strategies that we once used to cope don't work anymore, and we need a little help learning a new way. I’m here to support, guide and provide you with the tools necessary to overcome the stresses and obstacles, that life may throw at you. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment that encourages change and growth; To be reminded of your strengths, skills and abilities; to explore how to best resolve conflict with others; to learn new ways of managing stress and symptoms; to unlearn old habitual and negative patterns; to re-author and reclaim your life; to develop the courage and ability to be fully present in your life.

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Michael Brollini

Offering therapy in California
License: M.A. LMFT 128895
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist with 6 years of experience working with co-occurring mental health disorders. I tend to use the eclectic approach with therapy that incorporates modalities of Cognitive behavioral therapy, Solution focus therapy, Narrative therapy, Strategic family therapy, and Emotion focused couples therapy. I have worked in residential treatment for 5 years helping restore functionality to daily living, when available helping reunification with family or support system, helping to identify and adapt to appropriate changes to help improve with quality of living. It is an important process of understanding deficits that interferes with emotional well-being, negative thought patterns, and our ability to manage day to day utilizing appropriate coping methods. It is my goal to help with learning alternative self-care activities, utilizing coping skills, and grounding techniques that could help us to function in the present moment. These are the basic fundamentals that are important through the healing process which could help improve your personal growth.

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Samantha Kerdman

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
10 years of experience

I'm here to support you throughout your therapeutic journey. My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, rediscover your strengths, and achieve your individual or relationship goals. I offer a safe and supportive therapeutic environment, where we collaboratively search for new solutions using empirically based therapeutic treatment.

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Kendra Theroith

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I'm a down to earth therapist that will meet my clients where they're at. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. More importantly, I have experience working with teenagers and LGBTQ population. 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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Tracy Cameron

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
26 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 26 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. 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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Liza Lal

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Texas with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & 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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Judy Yen

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

From one human to another, I know life isn’t always easy. I get it, I’ve been there too. And it sucks. Pain sucks. So often we see ourselves from a negative lens. Shame, self-doubt, rejection, and loneliness can often discolor our authentic self. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with 10 years of experience, my priority is to foster a space where you can gain a stronger sense of self and gain a better understanding of your self worth. My desire for you is to establish thriving relationships, emotional regulation, a stronger voice, and HOPE. I want you to maximize your strengths so you can live your best life. I love supporting individuals, couples, adolescents, and families struggling with anxiety, depression, attachment, relational difficulties, stress, identity formation, low self-worth, bicultural identity struggles, and life transitions. I truly believe that every person has the strength and capacity for change. I hope to walk with you as you re-author your narrative to one of living loved and feeling known. One of the most difficult parts of finding a therapist is finding someone you can connect with. Not everyone is going to be the right fit. I would be honored to share this therapy space with you. If you feel comfortable creating a connection, don’t hesitate to reach out. I am currently doing short term therapy through the holiday season. If this is something that suits you, I look forward to working with you.

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Heather Custodio

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a licensed professional in California with three years of experience. My expertise includes helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and career difficulties. I also specialize in supporting individuals through life transitions. My approach focuses on creating an open, safe space where clients can share their thoughts and feelings freely, without fear of judgment. Seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and I am here to support and empower you as you take those first steps toward meaningful change.

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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