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.
Alice Magnusson
Hello! My name is Alice Hamlin. I possess a BA and MA in Psychology as well as a Pupil Personnel Services Credential that caters to school aged children who are in need of mental health treatment to better perform academically. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have over 10 years of experience in the field and have been licensed since 2010. My focus, however, is on healing trauma in ages 18 and over specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, sexual assault/abuse, LGBTQ, and foster/family of origin issues. My modality is catered to my clients based on what it is you are looking for as I believe there is no change unless the client wishes to do so. I have found the best changes come from using various modalities such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Unconditional Positive Regard/Rogerian to help you personally meet the goals you have for therapy. I will do my utmost to meet you where you are in order to better stabilize your life and sense of purpose. I have watched lives change from using rudimentary coping skills to becoming proactive members of society, even mentors. I can guarantee that I will be honest with you as we progress through this process together. I realize therapy places you in a vulnerable position, and I commend you for putting your trust in me in order to better yourself.
Deborah Bowe
I have had a long career in human services in community mental health in Los Angeles, CA and Miami FL. I am a seasoned therapist both in years and experience. For over the past 20 years I have had the privilege to work with individuals, families and couples and support them through their concerns and challenges. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I work in a collaborative fashion and respect that you as the client have the answers. I view my role as your guide providing a safe, trusting, empathic environment so you will have the freedom to find out for yourself and make the changes you would like to see in your life. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and psychodynamic counseling. I use Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and Solution focus modalities. My experience has been with working with individuals /families with anger management, anxiety, grief loss, depression, trauma focus work, PTSD and all forms of abuse. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your specific and unique necessities. During our time together I will provide strategies and schemes as well as feedback to lend support and encouragement throughout the process of change. 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 look forward to working with you!
Marsh Rose
Greetings. I'm Marsh Rose, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California (LMFT #29870) with over 30 years of experience in private practice and clinical settings. I HAVE ONE OPENING IN MY SCHEDULE, AT 9 A.M. ON SATURDAYS. I offer voice sessions, live chat in real time, and messaging. I do not offer video. My approach is cognitive-behavioral and client centered. We start where you are, identify your goals and work toward achieving them. I believe in a casual but focused therapeutic environment where there’s room for humor as well as serious introspection. My clinical specialties include stress and coping, compassion fatigue, anxiety, grief and loss, and issues regarding aging. Although I am not a veteran, it was my great good fortune to begin my clinical experience as a staff counselor with Viet Nam combat veterans at one of the first nonprofit agencies in the United States that help combat veterans and their families. I went on to get my master's degree in clinical psychology in 1989. While working toward my Marriage and Family license, I interned as a grief counselor for Hospice and provided general counseling at several clinics. I gained my MFT license in 1992 and have worked in private practice, served as case manager for the Treatment Alternatives to Street Crime program, and was Drug Court Coordinator for the Department of Health Services in my county. Once you sign the consent for services I will schedule our first appointment. I look forward to working with you.
Brian Olden
Greetings, and congratulations on making the decision to improve your life situation. Whether or not you choose to work with me, your choice to obtain therapy assistance for your concerns will have beneficial effects for you and the people close to you. I am a mature professional, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California, with many years of experience. I have worked with individuals of all ages, as well as couples and families. I am diverse in my approach and firmly believe that therapeutic goals must be made in conjunction and agreement with the individual seeking therapy. I lived overseas for a number of years so I am sensitive to cultural differences. I have specialized training in military trauma, sexual trauma as well as with adults with different types of trauma. I am experienced in helping people who are transitioning from one life phase to another: Relationship and family transitions, job/occupational challenges and changes, dealing with chronic pain and illnesses, and the challenges of caretakers for partners or parents. I enjoy working with people who are seeking to meet goals they they have not yet been able to achieve, and to recognize the strengths they possess and to develop strategies to maximize those strengths. I look forward to embarking on this journey with you. You CAN achieve your goals!!
Sarah Tasker
Life is full of challenges that can often leave you powerless, overwhelmed, and stuck. Living during a pandemic has greatly caused increased anxiety, and stress is at an all time high. If you or your family members are suffering, struggling to connect, experiencing trouble in finding stability or progress in your life, the process of therapy can help support your growth and self-esteem through these challenging times. I currently work in a school setting and work with elementary students, teens, adults and families. I work with individuals and families who experience anxiety, stress, difficult transitions, trauma or loss, friendship struggles, career changes, eating disorders, and relational stress - going through a separation or divorce. I feel it is important to encourage, inspire, and support individuals and families through person centered and collaborative therapy so that individuals can be the best version of themselves. I want to empower you so that you may be healthy, happy, and at peace at this point in your life. Life can be hard, but I believe you are capable of doing hard things.
Loretta Abbott
I am licensed in Montana and California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, those coping with addictions, lgbt-related issues, & trauma and abuse. 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. I fully believe in each individual's inner wisdom and work with clients to help them better access that wisdom through the use of compassionate interviewing and listening. I primarily employ therapeutic tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness. I have completed the first weekend training for EMDR, working with a EMDR consultant and registered for the second weekend in March 2024 in order to apply for EMDR certification.
Steven Goe
I am licensed in California with 48 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, men's issues including sexuality, & coping with aging and life changes, including fertility and adoption issues. I also have experience working with executive and professional coaching, as well as spiritual and personal development. 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.
Lindsay Hutchins
I am licensed in California with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, 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.
Ariana Kiefer
Thank you for checking out my profile, my name is Ariana Kiefer a seasoned therapist. I can treat a wide-range of mental health issues and phase of life issues. I pride myself in being an extremely approachable therapist. I always cultivate a warm and welcoming setting for my clients and explain the therapy process step-by-step. I strive to make the therapy process easy and one in which the client looks forward to each session.
David Raya
As a licensed clinician in the area of Los Angeles County with over 6 years of professional experience, I specialize in providing comprehensive support for individuals facing various challenges. My expertise includes helping my clients manage stress, anxiety, grief, loss, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and depression. I firmly believe that everyone has unique strengths that can help them overcome obstacles. Taking the first step towards a more fulfilling and joyful life requires courage, and I am here to provide the support you need. My approach is holistic, as I carefully assess all aspects of a person's life to gain a comprehensive understanding and guide them towards their desired outcomes. My ultimate goal is to empower individuals to navigate life's complexities, and embracing their distinctive strengths by utilizing a spiritual worldview. I would like to embark on this journey with you to work towards healing, growth, and purpose-driven living in order to create a brighter future.
Sade' Patterson
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience in mental health. Within my 10 years of providing service, 5 Years were Focused on Military Service Members & Families. Currently as a psychotherapist, I provide services to civilians and service members. I am dedicated to continuing to grow, I enjoy discovering innovative ways to serve those in need and consider myself as a dedicated lifelong learner. My clients describe me as an authentic, compassionate, and encouraging therapist who educates, provides a safe space for them to express themselves, and be understood while simultaneously being challenged to grow. My baseline and foundation for providing therapy is to have an unconditional-positive-therapeutic regard for my clients. Additionally, my approach is thorough, engaging, thoughtful, hopeful, person-centered and at times, challenging (when necessary). It is my goal to help my clients discover and/or reconnect with their higher self, increase peace and accept joy. I specialize in working with people who need guidance in the process to find their voice, improve self-esteem, recognize self-worth, rewire negative thinking patterns, increase hope, secure internal and external motivators, heal, develop, and thrive (living beyond survival)! I believe clients are the experts on their own situation and there’s so much to learn through actively listening. I value integrity, honesty, hard-work and education. As a social servant, it is my desire to assist individuals, families, groups and organizations meet their desired goals with emphasis in holistic wellness and social well-being.
Dr. Norma Rosales
Hello, my name is Dr. Norma Rosales. I am a first-generation Latina Christian woman. I have had the privilege of working as a mental health therapist for over 23 years. Throughout this time, I have supported individuals, couples, and families in achieving their mental health goals. Helping my clients grow, heal from trauma, and find solutions to their challenges has been a fulfilling journey that aligns with my deep commitment to serving others through Christ’s love and compassion. My therapy journey began with a deep desire to help others gain clarity, healing, and emotional well-being. Over the years, I have witnessed the transformational power of therapy and how it allows individuals to discover their God-given strengths. Seeing clients experience hope, healing, and mental clarity reminds me of the biblical truth that through Christ, all things are possible, and every individual has the potential to overcome life’s obstacles. In my practice, I use a Strength-Based and Solution-Focused approach, always highlighting the inherent strengths that my clients bring with them. I also incorporate faith-based elements for those who seek spiritual guidance in their healing process, recognizing the power of faith in providing comfort, resilience, and purpose. I believe in empathy, active listening, and creating a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their struggles and receive Christ-centered hope and encouragement. My philosophy is simple: Therapy is a collaborative journey. I believe that every person can grow and overcome difficulties with Christ’s guidance and healing touch. My role is to walk alongside my clients, helping them find their path to mental health supported by faith and inner strength. What sets my approach apart is the integration of cultural sensitivity, empathy, and personalized care, all while reflecting the love of Christ. I honor each client’s unique experiences and partner with them to promote mental clarity and a balanced, healthy lifestyle rooted in faith. One of the most rewarding moments in therapy is seeing clients reach their “aha” moment—when they realize that change is possible, healing is within reach, and with Christ’s help, they can overcome their challenges. I strive to guide each client toward that moment of breakthrough, providing a space of grace, understanding, and support as they move forward in their journey.
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:
- 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 featur
- 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 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.
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
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