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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Elisabeth Welch

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issues
7 years of experience

My name is Elisabeth and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from California. I’ve done therapy in Los Angeles, Philadelphia and New York City but was educated at the University of Southern California. I am eager to hear about how you are doing. I have worked with clients for over seven years, specializing in relationship issues, parenting, and managing stress, anxiety and depression. Life challenges can really knock us down and make it hard to move forward. I am here to be your support. With compassion and empowering conversation, we can work together to help you live your best life. I can help you make important, impactful decisions in your life, or be there to listen when you just need someone to talk to. Numerous people suffer from anxiety and depression but did you know that they are very treatable health issues? Research shows that there are many concrete techniques that can really make a difference in helping you deal with those feelings. My combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy and Attachment Science can help you live a fulfilling and happy life on your terms. A notable client I’ve worked with was a single mother who suffered from extreme sadness and feelings of being overwhelmed in social situations. After determining she suffered from depression, we worked on behavioral techniques to alleviate the symptoms of depression such as helping her to learn to reframe negative thoughts, utilize calming techniques and engage in endorphin-boosting behavior. The next layer was helping to identify the type of situations that would trigger her depression or social anxiety. After identifying some previous life events that caused her great distress and trauma, we were able to help her understand and identify why she became unhealthily depressed and anxious. This lead to a more fulfilling social life and a more emotionally stable outlook on life. She has a new life partner and a much more optimistic view on life. I hope I can help you to find the balance and happiness that you deserve. I look forward to working with you!

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Sarah Garlick

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersParenting issues
18 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Sarah Garlick and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I have experience working with clients from many different backgrounds both in program settings and in private practice. I graduated from Boston University, with a Master's in Clinical Social Work in 1999. I believe the first step to any successful therapy is creating a safe and supportive environment for the client. Within a trusting therapeutic relationship there is the opportunity for exploration and growth to occur. I strive to work collaboratively with my clients to overcome the barriers that keep them from having more fulfilling lives. I teach my clients concrete skills that they can use to deal with current issues, and challenges that may occur in the future. I provide compassionate solution-focused psychotherapy. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, but tailor my approach to best meet the needs of my clients. My areas and issues of special interest include: - Insomnia - Anxiety - Parenting and Co-parenting - Building self confidence/self esteem - Depression - Trauma recovery - Life transitions

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Angelique Gettle

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

As a marriage and family therapist licensed in the state of California, I have over 25 years experience working with a diverse population; That experience has led me to help people with trauma, PTSD, women's issues, grief, addictions and attachment related disorders. I also utilize art therapy and animal therapy in my clinical practice. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, believing that every client is unique in their own perception and life experience. My approach combines a more humanistic, dynamic approach. I also enjoy rational-emotive based therapy and Minuchin’s Structural approach. It takes courage to seek therapy and to take those first steps toward actual change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to listen, support, and empower you to do so. I look forward to working with you!

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Scheherazade Collins

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemCoachingADHD
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, OCD, eating disorders, motivation and attention, self esteem, and peak performance coaching. 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. I have over twelve years of experience working with patients using QEEG-guided Neurofeedback to treat a wide variety of symptoms, diagnoses, and work with those who want to have the most cutting-edge strategies to enhance their ability to perform in elite sports and performing arts. As a primary therapist at Linden’s Attention Learning Center, seeing hundreds of adults and children, I gained confidence that NFB can be an effective treatment for Attention Disorders, Mood Disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. I received further education under the guidelines of Biofeedback Certification International Alliance, which is the governing board for international certification for practitioners. I also hold certification as a HeartMath Certified Practitioner for Stress Management. As a former professional ballerina, I have a passion for working with elite performers and those who work in high stress professions. Training in the field Sport Psychology has provided me with a specific skill set to work with this population and give my clients the tools to thrive in challenging environments. My areas of experience include but are not limited to Peak Performance, Mental Skills Training, Performance Anxiety, Coping Skills, Career Transitions, as well as issues related to athletic injuries. I also work with other individuals such as gifted children, and those in high pressure and elite professions. You have taken the important first step in reaching out, and I look forward to working with you.

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Shannae Hart

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesCareer difficulties
6 years of experience

I am an associate clinical social worker in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. 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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Marlon Rollins

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Indiana with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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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Cheryl Martin

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Hello and thank you for considering me as your therapist. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 15 years of clinical experience, and I’ve worked in community mental health for more than 20 years. Throughout my career, I’ve supported clients facing a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, stress, family conflicts, trauma, self-esteem issues, and motivation struggles. My approach is centered on creating a safe, open space where you can share your thoughts and feelings freely, without fear of judgment. I understand that taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and meaningful life can be difficult, but it’s also a courageous and empowering decision. I’m here to support you every step of the way as we work together toward your healing and personal growth. I look forward to partnering with you on your journey to wellness. For additional information, please visit my webpage: www.journeytowellnessandhealing.com

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Damaris Tobar

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuse
4 years of experience

My name is Damaris Tobar and I am a Bilingual (Spanish), Bicultural, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in the San Gabriel Valley, California. I support clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, trauma, domestic violence, and substance abuse. Building relationships is an important part of the therapeutic process and I look forward to being in the community with you. I use components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Feminist Therapy, and a trauma-informed approach to help my clients feel grounded and better able to regulate their emotions. I am warm and empathetic, yet honest and direct. I utilize humor to connect with folks. I also provide a holding and safe environment in session. "If you are a therapist and you're not acknowledging how systems of oppression and intersectionality impact mental health, then you're likely centering supremacy and whiteness in your work." -Dr. Ebony

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Usha Mirpuri

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in California specializing in solution focused therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I work with patients to create a safe environment where feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My approach is culturally sensitive and focused on the specific needs of the person. I meet each client from an individualized perspective to establish therapeutic rapport, understanding and create a safe environment for the patient. During my career, I have worked patients from many backgrounds, helping them feel heard and respected. It is my goal to empower people in their journey of healing. I have experience in helping people who are struggling with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and depression as well as overcoming life’s many challenges. My therapy style is warm yet direct. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and sessions to meet each person’s specific needs. I look forward to working with you!

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Tamara "Tammy" Grayson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
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, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, and PTSD in First Responders and families. 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.

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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