Finding a therapist in California can be challenging. Even in some of the biggest California cities, concerns about cost or a lack of available providers can make finding an in-person therapist 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. From young adults needing help managing ADHD to seniors struggling to heal from past events, therapists can help adults of any age navigate the challenges in their lives and learn 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.

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Dr. Madison Brightwell

Offering therapy in California
License: OR LMFT T1717, NC LMFT 2068
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
19 years of experience

I always treat every client as a unique and special individual who I can empower to find their own inner guidance and healing ability. I love what I do and I feel this is my purpose in life. I specialize in helping people with addictions, pain, trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and anger. It is my belief that addictions, pain and trauma are closely linked and it is my mission to break the cycle of despair that keeps people trapped in pain, whether it is emotional or physical. I have a behavioral approach to counseling, and I believe in working to help the client by looking at where they are right now and enabling them to move forward in a more positive direction with their lives. Treatment Approach I have a very creative approach to my work and enjoy using expressive arts to help people discover a new self-identity. My unique experience as a performing artist helps me to find creative ways to move people out of their negative patterns of behavior and transform their lives.

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Allison Clay

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 50174
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
23 years of experience

​Hi, I’m Allison Clay — a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist offering virtual therapy for individuals navigating anxiety, mood challenges, and the everyday overwhelm that life can bring. If you’re feeling stretched thin, emotionally stuck, or struggling to manage your mental health, you're in the right place. My approach is warm, grounded, and focused on helping you feel truly heard and supported. I’ve worked with people from all walks of life, but my passion for emotional well-being began in a middle school setting, where I advocated for students' social and emotional needs. That early experience still shapes the way I show up today — with empathy, consistency, and care. As someone who lives with Generalized and Social Anxiety, I understand how exhausting it can be just to get through the day — and how hard it is to reach out for help. That’s why I’ve created a virtual therapy space that feels safe and flexible, where we can focus on your needs, in your time, from the comfort of your space. Together, we’ll work to build insight into the patterns, triggers, and symptoms that are getting in the way of your well-being. We’ll also explore practical, healthy strategies that make life feel more manageable and more aligned with who you are. Therapy with me is collaborative and supportive — a place for real growth, real tools, and real connection. ​ If you’re ready to take the next step toward a steadier, more empowered life, I’d be honored to support you along the way.

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Loraine (Lori) Sawyer

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 17146, HI LMHC 470
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
15 years of experience

I am a therapist licensed in Hawai'i with over 10 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of challenges including depression, PTSD, anxiety, relationship issues, and parenting challenges. I have specialized experience supporting parents of children with special needs. I also have extensive experience working with young adults who have experienced trauma and want to learn new skills that can help them to thrive. I utilize a cognitive behavioral approach and have a comprehensive understanding of trauma informed care which means I strive to be empathetic , kind, and compassionate. I am a proponent of positive psychology and focus on using strengths to support change. It takes courage to ask for help and my goal is to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Erean Larry-Fiakpuyi

Offering therapy in California
License: HI LCSW LCSW-4128, CA LCSW 77299
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Karen Camese

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 99165
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. 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. 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 on that journey.

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Kristin Huneau

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 141286
AddictionsCareer difficultiesBipolar disorderCoping with life changesADHD
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, life changes, couples counseling and many more topics. 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.

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Sandra West

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 41583
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

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Mark Phelan

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 115079
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I am a Veteran and familiar with PTSD and military life challenges. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma. 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.

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Lynn Novatt

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 79846
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
17 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a professional Life and Leadership Coach, based in Los Angeles. With 17 years of experience as both a therapist and a coach, I offer an unparalleled blend of knowledge, tools and insights. Clients reflect to me my acute listening skills, empathetic approach and calm demeanor. My intention is to serve you in feeling deeply seen, completely safe, and fully supported as you have made the courageous decision to seek therapy. I see our time together as a sacred space for your healing, and the work we do together can be a springboard for your growth. In addition to my Marriage and Family Therapist license, I have a Master’s Degree in Spiritual Psychology from the University of Santa Monica. I have done my own deep therapeutic work which allows me to meet my clients where they are; no gimmicks, just deep, authentic listening, so that I can reflect back what I see and hear. My style and approach is one of encouragement, compassion, and optimism, as well as honest feedback. I strive to create a safe space where my clients can relax their body and their mind (their thinking,) allowing them to see possibility for themselves. Through this new lens, clients can gain clarity, get creative and take action in their lives. My therapeutic approach involves Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, Learned Optimism, Mindfulness, Positive Psychology and Gestalt. If my clients agree to do homework/grow-work, I utilize question prompts, worksheets, audios, videos, articles and books. I acknowledge you for taking the first step in your growth and empowerment by signing up for BetterHelp. And, I also know that this is a process; the work of personal growth and development is not for the faint of heart. And, here you are, so good for you! Keep going!

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Sophia Dyer

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 126475
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf 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, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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. 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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Sarah Nare

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 35940
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 30 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 parenting 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Danny Hicks Jr

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 15952, MN LPCC 2963
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Minnesota with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, 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. 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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Janet Roshanzamir

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 112734
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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. 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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Karen Ann Marshalleck

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 45436
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 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 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!

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 BetterHelp therapists in California does not offer diagnostic or medication management services in therapy.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor or therapists?

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, working with:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders requiring therapy
  • Anxiety disorders in need of therapeutic support
  • Depression or depressive mental health conditions
  • Adjustment issues in need of therapeutic support
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief therapy
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma therapy
  • Relationship conflicts and mental health concerns

Finding a therapist in California 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 therapy site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the therapy 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 therapy with a licensed therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person California therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $65 to $100 per week. 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.

Is it possible to find a therapist, counselor, or psychology practitioner that offers affordable therapy?

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.

What can a psychologist help me with in therapy?

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 in-person or online therapy with a therapist in California?

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.

Are online therapy sessions 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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