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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Dr. Ettie Bailey

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
AddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist licensed and working in the state of California, I also hold a doctorate in marriage and family therapy. Clinical experience includes anxiety, depression, addiction, issues related to gender/sexuality, trauma, abuse, and adjustment disorders. The youngest client I have worked with was 5 years of age and the oldest was 73. Given the extensiveness of my experience, there is no topic I will not address if it is the need of my client. I believe respect is crucial in the therapeutic relationship and approach my client’s with compassion, sensitivity, and warmth. My core theory of change is Strategic with certification as a Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, and I incorporate, cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy and the humanistic approach. Additionally, I utilize the Alpha-Stim (biofeedback) for severe and persistent depression, anxiety, PTSD, and insomnia if this treatment modality is appropriate for my client. I tailor the treatment plan and therapeutic dialogue to meet your specific needs and work hard to ensure your unique needs are met. Engaging in therapy is scary and I applaud you for taking the necessary steps towards change. If you are ready, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you.

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Lourdes Mayes

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefAnger managementDepression
16 years of experience

Hi, I am a bilingual English/ Spanish licensed clinical social worker in California with over 12 years of experience in the mental health field. I have the honor of working with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, PTSD, anger and stress management, parenting issues, and couple relationship challenges. I strive to create a safe, non-judgemental and comfortable environment so we can work together to gain insight into the various contributions to your feelings and problems. We will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your problems, improve communication skills, build empathy & respect, learn effective problem-solving & conflict resolution skills, and strengthen connection, including intimacy. Very soon you will discover yourself and about the changes you can make to propel yourself forward. As long as you are open to sharing as well as accepting what is shared with you, this process of exploring can be highly rewarding, and it will also set up for success down the road. I’m looking forward to working with you!

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Adam Whyte

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

My name is Adam Whyte, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in the State of California. I currently hold a position as a Senior Clinical Social Worker at the VA (Veterans Affairs) working with Veterans. Since obtaining my MSW in 2001, I have continued to deepen my clinical skills as a counselor focusing on treating trauma, addition, depression, anxiety, confidence issues, wellness and health. I am experienced in providing support to people of a variety of ages, genders, cultures and sexual orientations. The techniques I have utilized to help individuals with their self-growth have included mindfulness, journal writing, recognizing supports, and developing inner strengths. I am well versed in many different therapeutic tools. In particular; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Relapse Prevention and Strengths Based Therapy. I feel I can be an effective counselor to individuals who are striving to improve themselves and gain more self-fulfillment in life.

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Julia Glanz

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Most people seek therapy because they realize that something is not working in their lives, and symptoms like stress, anxiety, and/or depression are starting to feel overwhelming. These symptoms quickly subside as folks feel genuinely seen, safe, and supported. At this point, we can then begin to uncover and understand destructive behaviors and thought patterns that are potentially inaccurate and not serving you well. These discoveries lead to new realizations about yourself as well as others and allow you to re-shape your life, changing negative attitudes and unhelpful ways of being. The end result is not only a deeper understanding of yourself but also a new, refreshing take on life coupled with positive, meaningful, and tangible changes in both your daily and long-term experiences. As a highly trained psychotherapist with over 20 years experience, I deeply value the therapeutic relationship. Clinically, I draw from Jungian and psychoanalytic theories. I also find cognitive-behavioral techniques helpful, and I can be very solution-focused if this seems appropriate, and you are looking for briefer, focused help. Compassion, attentiveness, and humility are always essential to me. I have found that by listening very closely and well -- coupled with sincere and humble admiration of my clients -- I can truly be of service in helping folks change their lives for the better. I look forward to hearing from you!

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Bryan Williams

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Roger Schwarz

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issues
27 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship 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.

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Erin Baker

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
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, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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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Gunjani Patel-Oza

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSleeping disordersCoping with life changesCoaching
17 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Florida with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, self-esteem, confidence and executive coaching. 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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Kamalpreet Nat

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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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Marjorie George

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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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Rhonda Robinson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, 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. 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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Leticia Moreno

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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:

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.

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