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.

This is Tara Tobin's avatar and link to their profile

Tara Tobin

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionADHD
19 years of experience

Hello, my name is Rhiannon (I go by my middle name). I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I have been providing therapy since 2005, primarily working with children, adolescents, parents, families, and couples. I specialize in helping children, teens, and young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and attention difficulties as well as assisting parents with skills to help their children develop emotionally, academically, and socially. My passion is to help all ages learn effective coping strategies to manage challenges related to focus, anxiety, depression, and anger/aggression. Another strong focus of my practice is with couples and the various relationships in our lives. Here, learning and mastering positive and effective communication and problem-solving skills is key to creating supportive partnerships and increasing our quality of life. Originally from New York, I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a Minor in Studio Art in Baltimore, Maryland, and then obtained my Master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy with a concentration in Art Therapy from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California. I utilize interventions from cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, family systems theory, art therapy, and mindfulness practices. These approaches support the processes of increasing awareness of our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, developing more effective strategies/skills to make changes and reach personal goals, and ultimately lead to a sense of feeling more balanced and satisfied with our lives. I believe that in order for the therapeutic process to be successful, we will focus on your strengths and you being the “expert” in your life. As a facilitator of growth and awareness, I look forward to working with you!

This is Melanie Fikse's avatar and link to their profile

Melanie Fikse

Offering therapy in California
License: LPCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefBipolar disorderDepression
12 years of experience

I imagine that if you are here, you are tired of feeling this way.  You may be stuck and unsure how to feel different.  You may have tried so many ideas already and none of them have worked! It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California with 10 years of experience working with adults. I utilize a trauma-informed approach and through this lens, can assist you with concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, grief, childhood and adult trauma, Bipolar Disorder, and personality disorders.  My approach to therapy is client-centered, collaborative, and strength-based. You will sense my warmth, passion for my work, and feel seen and heard. I consider it a privilege to come alongside you and support people as they navigate life's many challenges and joys.  I believe that each of us has the inner strength necessary to grow and heal and value the work with clients to find and utilize these strengths. I earned my Masters Degree from New York University in New York City, and worked many years there in a community mental health clinic  providing therapy to underserved populations.  I have worked in California for many years now, based out of a rural community, where I can find calm and healing in the quiet and trees. People find me to be compassionate and down to earth, but also able to provide practical skills and interventions. I am skilled in the use of many therapeutic interventions including Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR, psychodynamic interventions, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness and meditation.  I am very comfortable working with significant trauma histories and am allied with the LBGTQ community. I look forward to hearing more of your story and working with you!

This is Dr. Rachel Radin's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Rachel Radin

Offering therapy in California
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

Greetings! My name is Rachel Radin, and I am a licensed clinical health psychologist in the state of California who specializes in treating adults with anxiety, mood, and eating disorders. I hold a Masters and PhD in Clinical and Medical Psychology from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) in Bethesda, Maryland. I completed a Pre-doctoral Internship in Pediatric Psychology at Mount Washington Pediatric Hospital. I developed expertise in cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy, and psychodynamic psychotherapy during my training at USUHS and throughout the DC/Metro Area. As a clinical health psychologist, I have a specialized interest in treating adults who suffer from weight-related eating concerns, such as binge eating and stress-related eating. During my clinical psychology internship at Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland, I developed expertise in addressing health-related psychological concerns including diabetes management, obesity management, chronic health conditions, and developmental concerns. I completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), where I developed additional expertise in using mindfulness-based and motivational-interviewing based treatments for a variety of presenting concerns. At UCSF, I developed a brief intervention to reduce stress-related eating among adults using mindfulness and motivational-based approaches. I look forward to working with you and helping to guide you towards your best self!

This is Michael Southerland's avatar and link to their profile

Michael Southerland

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesDepression
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, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Rosa Barraza's avatar and link to their profile

Rosa Barraza

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

I am licensed in California and Idaho with 11 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 also love animals, gardening, and tending to my small homestead on my off time. I appreciate being out in nature and also appreciate being home. 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! *** I offer sessions openings in the early morning and earlier afternoon hours. I do offer some Saturday and Sunday morning sessions as well***

This is Natalie Eden's avatar and link to their profile

Natalie Eden

Offering therapy in California
License: MBA, MA, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am dedicated to providing you with confidential, compassionate & personalized treatment to meet your individual needs & goals. Focus is on empowering you to make better decisions, gain more insight, and embrace the challenges of life. Focus is on restoring and developing a person’s dignity, strengths, and God-given talents for problem-solving, personal growth, and achievement. I am a fully licensed counselor with two advanced degrees. I have been in private practice for 10 years treating clients who present with a wide range of challenges. Prior to that I worked as a counselor at an outpatient behavioral health clinic at a major hospital in downtown Chicago, Illinois providing individual and group therapy to persons of all ages diagnosed with a wide variety of emotional challenges. My studies have also included extensive coursework in addictions and motivational interviewing. I have experience and training in treating anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorders and grief. As a fully licensed clinical professional in the states of Illinois and Pennsylvania, I have a Masters of Arts in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology with a 4.0 GPA. Other degrees include a Master’s degree in Business Administration from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA as well as a Bachelor’s degree in English /Communications summa cum laude from Campbell University. I am married with two adult children. My hobbies include travel, writing, genealogy and art.

This is Steven Gaddis's avatar and link to their profile

Steven Gaddis

Offering therapy in California
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger management
20 years of experience

Greetings! I am a counselor, currently licensed in California and Texas, with approximately 20 years of experience. My experiences include working with individuals to address topics such as anger management, relationship issues, alcohol and other drug related concerns, personal development, and mood disturbances. I have also worked with criminal justice involved individuals. My style primarily utilizes a Cognitive Behavioral perspectives with an understanding that the connection and trust between counselor and client is paramount in an effective and productive partnership. I believe that by working to create a safe and authentic environment the stage is best prepared for creating healthy change and movement towards ones goals. Although the specific methods utilized will be based on individual details and interactions, my interactions are personalized and focused on an individual's strengths. I typically review incoming messages at least twice a day, at least once in the AM and once in the PM. I appreciate you and your interest in counseling as an opportunity to create or maintain the life you envision. I hope to have the opportunity to partner with you in your next steps and I look forward to hearing from and working with you.

This is Joseph F Dolowy III's avatar and link to their profile

Joseph F Dolowy III

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

My name rhymes: Joey Dolowy and my main driver in life is to help people. I really like being of service and love my job. I have been professionally employed as a therapist in California since 1998 and have a great deal of personal/professional/life experience. I have specialized in the following areas: depression: anxiety: chemical dependency/addiction issues (which has been a life long search as a friend OD'D when I was 13 and I have spent the ensuing decades reading and learning about addiction and drugs) : self harm: teen issues: phase of life issues: bullying: self esteem/self image: grief and loss and of course marital issues. I will listen and I will tailor our sessions and treatment plan to serve you. Finding a therapist can be complicated and I am simply here to help you: please contact me and let me start helping you. I specialize in providing sessions while hiking, biking, skating and even surfing. Thank you for taking the time to read this. I am here for you: CHEERS.

This is Amy Martinez's avatar and link to their profile

Amy Martinez

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
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, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Maria Vega's avatar and link to their profile

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!

This is Jennifer Brown's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Brown

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
9 years of experience

Hi, I’m Jennifer Brown, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for the past 9 years dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy for individuals of all ages, couples, and families. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, including those in recovery, CPS-involved clients, divorced parents, individuals experiencing homelessness, veterans, children, adults, and survivors of abuse. My eclectic therapeutic approach draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy, allowing me to tailor treatment to your unique needs and goals. Whether you’re facing life transitions, emotional challenges, relationship struggles, or healing from trauma, I’m here to guide you toward growth, resilience, and a more fulfilling life. Let’s work together to create meaningful change and empower you to thrive.

This is Kellie Knox's avatar and link to their profile

Kellie Knox

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesParenting issuesCoaching
25 years of experience

I am licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in California with more than 25 years of professional experience providing therapy and clinical supervision. I have experience in helping people with stress, anxiety, GLBTQI+ related issues, relationship issues, parenting issues, & management coaching/consultation. I partner with individuals to create a space in sessions that is comfortable, open and safe, where thoughts and feelings can be shared and worked through without fear of judgment. Take a chance on yourself, you deserve to feel better.

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.

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist