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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Jane Winston Doman

Offering therapy in California
License: M.A. Clinical Psychology
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hello, I am Jane Winston Doman a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist in the state of California. I look forward to helping you find ways to reach your goals. I made a career change later in life knowing that I wanted to be in a helping profession. I went back to school and received my Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University in 1993. Being an older student with life experience was one of the best decisions I have ever made although not an easy one. I understand how difficult it can be to make changes in your life and to ask for help along the way. Since then I have worked individually with adults, couples and many older adults and adult children caring for a parent. I consider it a privilege to get to know my clients and build a trusting and supportive relationship. I have additionally worked in community mental health, assisting older adults and caregivers coping with stress and existential issues. My approach is to provide a safe, caring atmosphere while exploring ways that are most helpful for you to gain insight while encouraging growth and healing. We will work collaboratively to find appropriate coping strategies to help you with your goals. I use an integrated approach to treatment drawing from Client Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Family therapy and Existentialism. I look forward to meeting you and working together. SPECIALTIES Anxiety, Panic disorder Depression Self esteem Crisis management Grief and Loss Adult children caring for parents Older adult issues Family dynamics and relationship issues

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Joseph 'Joe' Exnowski

Offering therapy in California
License: MA LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist working in the counseling field for 8 years. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, challenging relationships, self esteem issues, trauma and childhood abuse. My therapeutic approach is to create an atmosphere of safety, comfort, and respect, with the recognition of how much courage it takes to make this sacred journey. I blend several different approaches in my practice such humanistic, gestalt, mindfulness, and trauma based therapies. People taking this journey don't always recognize how much strength, insight, and wisdom they innately possess, I am here to assist you in unlocking those doors. Those doors lead to feed on, peace, and happiness

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Russell Pippin

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
27 years of experience

Welcome. My name is Russell Pippin. I am living and working in California as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have over 25 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings from Private Practice to working at a County Behavioral Health Agency to working as a clinical Supervisor for an agency that provides school systems with mental health services. I have a deep abiding faith in God that has grown over the past 48 years. That faith has led me to my calling to help empower, heal, and discover what is best in each person and commission each to live their best life. It is my belief that by providing a safe authentic and compassionate clinical setting we can work together to achieve your goals. Please contact me at your earliest convenience. I look forward to hearing from you. Russell Pippin LMFT EDUCATION Bachelor’s degree Simpson Bible College San Francisco Graduated in 1982 Major in Christian Education Master’s degree Fresno State University Fresno Graduated in 1994 Major in Counseling-Marriage,Family and Child Counseling SPECIALTIES: Stress, Anxiety Self esteem Depression Coping with Life Changes Anger Management Communication problems- Imago therapy certificatied Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. EMDR level II trained since 2007 CLINICAL APPROACHES Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy EMDR Therapy Solution Focused Therapy Imago-Couples Therapy Years of Experience 23 LANGUAGE English LICENSING LMFT40133

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Sabrina Lucas

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping 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 and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, and depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Deyanira Garcia

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Hi there, I'm Deyanira! Hello, my name is Deyanira Garcia, Dey for short. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (132462). I provide therapeutic services to adolescents and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relational issues, and trauma. I use a variety of approaches to build understanding of your inner dialogue, your values, and assist in processing difficult experiences. My approach My therapeutic style begins with building a trusting relationship and assisting clients with processing and making connections by asking intentional questions. My approach includes processing unaddressed emotions, challenging unhelpful narratives, and building coping skills to manage life stressors. My focus My experience consists of supporting counseling and education for children ages 0-5 who display emotional and behavioral symptoms that may lead to serious mental health problems and children 5-18 years old who have experienced trauma through abuse, neglect, abandonment, or as a victim of a crime. In addition to working with children, I also work with adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, relational issues, PTSD, and other life stressors. My communication style I pride myself on providing a safe and empathetic space for my clients throughout their journey. Taking the first step can be difficult, therefore, I like to provide a space where you allow yourself to be yourself free of judgment. I am grateful for the opportunity to stand by your side during your therapeutic journey. My journey to mental healthcare I knew from a young age that I wanted to work in a field where I had the opportunity to help others. The greatest moments in my career consist of seeing the transformations and resilience of my clients. My goals for you I emphasize the importance of going at your pace and assisting you set goals for yourself. We will work collaboratively to help you meet those goals. My first session with you The first session is focused on getting to know each other, making sure that you feel comfortable, and a chance for you to tell your story and explain the problems you are experiencing.

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Lela Lemell

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

As a licensed California therapist, I bring over a decade of experience to my practice, specializing in individual and couples’ therapy. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and a deep commitment to helping clients navigate life’s challenges and enhance their relationships. Whether working with individuals facing personal struggles or couples seeking to strengthen their bond, I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space for exploration and growth. With a blend of evidence-based techniques and a focus on relational dynamics, I empower my clients to cultivate self-awareness, communication skills, and resilience. Through collaborative dialogue and personalized interventions, I guide individuals and couples towards greater insight, connection, and fulfillment in their lives and relationships. As an individual or a couple seeking therapy, know that this is the first step of finding the right therapist to be able to connect with. Give me a call so we can discuss your needs as I am here to support and empower you and your relationships.

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Maria Holguin

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
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, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Desiree Vargas

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with 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. 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. Important Note: I do not provide letters, forms, or other documentation for clients for legal, medical, or employment purposes; including emotional support animal requests, disability accommodations, or court related matters. My focus is on providing therapy and support to address your emotional and mental health needs. Unfortunately, if you have Kaiser Permanente as a health insurance, I am unable to meet with you.

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Dr. Sonya Kelly

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

I have been licensed in California as a Psychologist since 2001 with 36 years of professional work experience Master's Degree Level or above. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, communication skills, trauma, abuse, motivation, self-esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I see individuals, couples, and facilitate groups. I believe that you are the expert on your life story and that you have many strengths that will assist us (you and me) 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 journey.

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Angela Monson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self-esteem & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with professional coaching. 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.

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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