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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Mark-Jeremy Trybulski

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT, PsyD
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
18 years of experience

Greetings! My name is Mark Jeremy Trybulski. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California, MFC53284. Yay me. I just graduated from California Southern University with my PsyD in Psychology. Don't worry, I won't have you call me Dr. Mark! LOL I live in Palm Springs with my adorably sweet Maltese, Lulu. I am very focused on balancing my life with work, school, family and friends, and enjoying life one day at a time. I practice one of two types of "therapies". I can work with my client as a Life Coach, or as a Psychotherapist. As a Life Coach, we focus on today, and how we can make it a better tomorrow. As a Psychotherapist, we delve into past events, relate them to today and how they can be used to live a happier, healthier new life. I see individuals and couples. My two therapeutic models of choice are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy. A Psychodynamic Theory is a view that explains personality in terms of conscious and unconscious forces, such as unconscious desires and beliefs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a type of psychotherapeutic treatment that helps a client understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. I have an extensive background in addiction therapy, gay and lesbian issues/concerns (I am gay, myself), HIV/AIDS, Dual Diagnosis (specifically, Bipolar and Depression), Crisis Intervention, and just plain LIFE. My therapeutic model follows along with the flexible and relatable type of lifestyle I lead. I don't rely on formalities in session, but rather an atmosphere of safety, comfortableness, sharing, and learning. As a therapist, I believe it is important for my clients to realize that we are all equals in life. And, I realize that, through circumstance and at any time, I could be the person sitting next to me. We, all, have life issues to share - both good and bad. And it is important that we have someone who will hear us and understand our concerns without judgment. All of us strive to be the happiest and healthiest we can be with what we know. But when we get stuck in the rut of trying to do better and not having the success we desire, it is important to hear another perspective. Perspectives are like clothing; try it on and see if it fits. If it does, wonderful. Wear it in good health. If not, take it back and get a new outfit. There is one for everyone out there, it just takes a little work to find the one that fits you. What is your dream? Mine is to make a difference. I know. It is all relevant. Earlier in my life, my dream was totally different. It was about survival. Well, I've survived. And now it is my turn to be there to assist others toward their survival, in any way that I can. To further that perspective, I've realized that my perspective of reality can serve as a critical understanding of one's perceived reality. My supervisor provided insight that, when we meet a new client, we meet them where they are. Not where we want them to be. I don't represent a reality with mal-intent: rather an intent towards a motivation for a realistic positive future movement. "If you do what you've always done, you'll get what you've always gotten." (Tony Robbins) ‘Do what you feel in your heart to be right–for you’ll be criticized anyway.’ (Eleanor Roosevelt)

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Vanessa Schneider

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a Bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 10 years of experience. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I particularly enjoy working with adults, couples and families. Throughout my career I have supported clients as they dealt with and overcame issues with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship conflicts, co-occurring disorders, bereavement and anger problems. My counseling approach and theoretical orientation is person-centered. I believe that providing my clients with a safe, supportive and encouraging environment will assist them in their life journey and in accomplishing their goals. As all individuals are different and require various ways of being supported, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as needed. My role as a therapist is to meet you where you are, support and guide you through your journey in life. Together, in a supportive environment, we can work towards creating a healthier and happier life for you!

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Amber Atwood

Offering therapy in California
License: MS, LPCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). My therapy approach is strength-based aimed to empower and motivate individuals. I have been trained in a variety of approaches incorporating mindfulness based therapy techniques and cognitive behavioral therapy. Additionally, I have had extensive training in narrative therapy which is founded on the premise that “the person is not the problem, the problem is the problem.” Emphasis in treatment is to help individuals increase a greater sense of self-awareness, mind-body connection, and support personal growth. This approach includes developing an improved understanding of current coping mechanisms and behavioral patterns to help identify when feeling stuck.

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Ashley Goodey

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in California with 10 years experience working with grief and loss. I have worked with many families who have experienced a peaceful acceptance of death and those that felt it was simply too soon. My bereavement experience allows those experience death and dying to identify that stages are not linear and do not occur in one particular order. My counseling techniques include cognitive behavior therapy, where I assist families and individuals with identifying their thoughts, feelings and behaviors in any given situation. I'm compassionate and display patience. My goal is to have a dialog and atmosphere that meets you were you are at in this journey of life and healing. The goal is to obtain a balance of your ultimate survival and strength. It takes courage to seek support and move towards healing. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. My areas of focus include, but are not limited to: grief counseling, depression, relationship issues , caregiver stress and family discord.

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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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Peter Muonagor

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional clinical work experience. I have experience helping clients with relationship issues, communication, anger management, building trust, stronger bonds, intimacy, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe that we are experts on our own stories and have many inherent strengths that may assist us in overcoming barriers and obstacles that challenge us. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and future, to take the first steps towards meaningful change. Change and happiness are possible, and I am here to support you in using the power within you on that journey to achieve that desired goal.

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Derrell Tidwell

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
41 years of experience

I am licensed mental health practitioner in California and Washington with over 40 years of professional work experience. I'm experienced in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts especially for people of color. I strongly believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming your challenges. My goal is to provide you clarity and assist you in utilizing your "natural toolbox" toward successfully addressing your challenges. I work Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturday mornings from 9 AM - 1 PM. If you anticipate my work days/hours don't match your general availability, I encourage you to initiate a "request for therapist change" process by clicking the icon in the upper right corner of your account page and using the pull down menu. Taking the first step to sign up for assistance takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Coryll Walsh

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issues
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with 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. 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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Ryan Taylor

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 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 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!

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Francesca Biffi

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

I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem and confidence, life transitions and 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am happy to assist you in this process.

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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