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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Lisa Lucius

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2009 in the state of California. I have experience working with many different populations and cultures. I have worked with moderate to severely mentally ill individuals as well as those who enter therapy to work on personal growth issues. I practice non judgement in life and it shows in my sessions. I rely on my experience and various techniques that are evidenced based and have been shown to work including CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing Techniques. I like to educate and work with people on mindfulness techniques, inner child work, and assertive communication when it is useful. This is a passion of mine.

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Victoria Serratos

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
12 years of experience

HI, I'm Victoria Serratos, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I'm thrilled to be a part of this journey towards mental well-being. With a heart for healing and a passion for understanding, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Having completed my Master of Social Work from USC School of Social Work and my bachelor's degree in Deaf Studies from CSUN, I've honed my skills in creating meaningful connections across languages and cultures. As a bilingual therapist in both Spanish and English, I strive to provide a safe and inclusive space for individuals of all walks of life. My approach to therapy is as unique as the people I work with. Tailoring my methods to your individual needs, I employ an eclectic approach that draws from a variety of therapeutic techniques. Whether you're a teenager navigating the complexities of growing up, a young adult stepping into the world, or someone seeking guidance in their senior years, my door is open to you. I welcome clients of all genders and identities and proudly stand as an ally for the LGBTQIA community. Specializing in Trauma, I've worked extensively with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, gang violence, and bullying, offering a supportive hand on the path to healing. Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Depression, and even the challenges of Postpartum life are areas where I can provide guidance and understanding. Loss, transitions, relationships, stress – life's trials come in many forms. With over a decade of experience working in diverse settings, I bring both wisdom and empathy to the table. From crisis management to long-term solutions, my aim is to empower you. I'm also an author of in the Amazon bestseller, "Survivors Diary: The Day She Left Vol 2." This project speaks to the strength of the human spirit and the resilience that lies within us all. If you'd like to learn more about my book you can find me at, victoriaserratos.com My training and specialties encompass a range of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-focused CBT, and Motivational Interviewing. I've have certifications/training in areas such as Domestic Violence, Suicide Intervention, and Spiritual Counseling. Remember, you're not alone on this path. Together, we can navigate life's challenges and work towards a brighter, more empowered future. Trainings & Specialties: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) EMDR Trauma focused CBT Seeking Safety Motivational Interviewing Domestic Violence Applied Suicide Interventions Skills (ASIST). Spiritual Counseling

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Sayrah Garrison

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I am a California licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of clinical experience. I specialize in working with individuals presenting with anxiety, depression, substance use and mood disorders. I have a strong belief that everyone should be treated with dignity and respect and take every effort to ensure that you feel heard each step of the way. Clients have described me as calm, compassionate and grounded. I believe that therapy must be driven by your own desire to change and work in collaboration with you to create a treatment plan that will assist you in meeting your desired goals. I find Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to be a great tool in therapy and also use aspects of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness and Solution-Focused Therapy in sessions with clients. Congratulations on taking this step to ensure a more fulfilling and happier life! I would be honored to help you in this process.

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Arlene Drake

Offering therapy in California
LGBTFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. 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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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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Elsa Busch

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with various anxiety conditions (i.e., Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Agoraphobia, Specific Phobias and etc.), eating disorders, anger management, & bipolar disorder. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I specialize in Cognitive Behavior Therapy and will tailor our treatment plan to also incorporate other modalities (Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness) 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 and to help you meet your treatment goals.

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Angela Haick

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTEating disordersParenting issuesDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I am also a retired school principal. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, eating disorders, & parenting 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Maria Vega

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf 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, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with 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. 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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Raymond DiCiccio

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 4 years of professional work experience as a therapist and more than 20 years' experience as a licensed addiction counselor. I have experience in helping client's increase motivation for change, increase self-esteem & confidence, and cope with life changes. I also have experience working with clients to reduce stress, anxiety, depression as well as coping with dependencies and addictions. 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 using Humanistic, Cognitive Behavioral and Positive Psychology approaches and techniques.

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Kimberly "Kim" Woolley

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 20 years of professional experience in the mental health field. I have worked in Medical Social Work helping individuals and families with sudden loss, injury, and chronic illness. I have worked with people and communities impacted by disasters. My expertise includes helping clients manage stress, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, depression, abuse, and career difficulties. I also have significant experience working with individuals in high-stress professions, including first responders, law enforcement, and veterans. I believe you are the expert of your own story, and together, we can identify the strengths that will help you overcome life’s challenges. Taking the first step toward therapy is a powerful choice, and I am here to support you every step of the way.

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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