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.

Bonnie Fagan
If you are feeling stuck in your relationship, career, family role, or struggling with a life transition and are unsure of how to move forward, I can help. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where we can work together to explore your emotions, experiences, and challenges and help you on your journey toward finding personal fulfillment. I use a person centered approach where I integrate Strengths Based, Mindfulness, and CBT techniques that are tailored to your specific needs. I have experience working with individuals and families from a range of backgrounds having trouble adjusting to challenges. I specialize in helping individuals manage life & relationship challenges, working with trauma survivors to overcome experiences, addressing issues related to maternal wellness, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, self-esteem, and coaching parents on managing difficult behaviors in young children. I also enjoy working with college students and young adults as they navigate their journeys in relationships and finding their place in their careers. I look forward to getting to know you and working together to support your individual needs.

Dara Charlton
I am a licensed clinical social worker counselor in Oregon and California with over 20 years of experienceworking as a therapist and health coach. I have worked with clients with a widerange of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parentingproblems, career challenges, eating disorders and borderline personality disorders. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is non judgemental and down to earth. I believe in treating anyone with respect,sensitivity, and compassion, and I want to hear your story with an open heart and mind. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing psychodynamic and rational-emotivecounseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am constantly learning and taking courses to make sure my approach is unique to each situation. It takes a lot of guts to seek out help and work to reduce suffering to create a fulfilling life. . I have a passion for helping people with complex presentations including chronic medical issues, eating disorders, mood instability, anxiety, self harm behaviors, suicidal thoughts, and symptoms of trauma. Together we will explore thoughts, feelings, behaviors and uncover what is leading to self limiting behaviors and beliefs. I will help you develop the school to create a life of peace. Outside of my work as therapist, I enjoy visiting my family in LA, and watching my daughter dance, I am passionate about juicing and spin class. My best friend is my dog Sailor a Havaton (half Havanese/half Coton du Tulear).

Mitch Artman
I became a therapist to help people suffer less and grow more. I believe that therapy is a journey and that just as you wish to move past your pain, your pain has a meaning. Our goal is not to get you back to who you were before your issues began, but to integrate the lessons life is offering you through this challenging time. I've worked in private practice, a mental health jail, a high-needs public clinic and in people's homes; I've exposed myself to a variety of human challenges and triumphs. Over a decade of practice, I've learned to have space for people's processes, to be a safe space as a container, to remain grounded in my listening and to be authentic in my practice. I often use a spiritual approach in treatment -- not of any religion, but in the sense that a deeper, more meaningful and integrated you seeks to come forth. This approach has been fruitful for people of all beliefs, including atheists. I believe your life has a meaning, and that you are it. I only do teletherapy via video - no messaging or phone calls. I also need to know the basics of your case and your needs before agreeing to beginning treatment, even if the algorithm matches us. This is to ensure I am a good clinical fit for you, and can responsibly and compassionately support you in therapy. Finally, I write about therapy at https://medium.com/@myartman and https://medium.com/@myartman/membership Thank you. Mitch

Leonard Burns
I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California since 1990. My background includes a combination of family systems and psychodynamic approaches, seasoned with many years of experience. What I have come to understand over the years is that the bedrock of successful psychotherapy is a strong, honest relationship between therapist and client. Only upon this foundation of trust is change possible. I have many years of experience assisting clients in recovering from complex PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, cancer survivorship, and finding peace with identity in a world that is often unkind to those whose lifestyles would not be described as traditional. I know from my personal journey that change is possible, while often difficult and terrifying. If you are ready to commit to the journey, I am here to be at your side along the rocky path.

Beverly Ventura
I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Heidi Schlig
I am licensed in California with over 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, & career difficulties. 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.

Monique Damroth
I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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.

Cheryle Lynn Roberts
I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Evline Kamarzarian
I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, & abuse. I also have experience working with depression. 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.

Christopher Kates
I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
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.
Popular cities in California
- Los Angeles, CA
- San Diego, CA
- San Jose, CA
- San Francisco, CA
- Fresno, CA
- Sacramento, CA
- Long Beach, CA
- Oakland, CA
- Bakersfield, CA
- Anaheim, CA
- Santa Ana, CA
- Riverside, CA
Find your state
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming