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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Emily Hunt

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
5 years of experience

Hello and welcome to BetterHelp! My name is Emily and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I first want to commend you on reaching out; the process of finding a counselor or therapist can be daunting, and I appreciate your willingness to give this a try. My overall style of therapy is relationship-based: I believe the therapeutic relationship (between you and I) can be one of the most effective vehicles for change and growth. I use specific interventions from different theoretical approaches tailored to you and what you want to focus on. As a therapist, I value my relationships with clients immensely. Every person is unique and their hopes, dreams, fears, strengths, and needs are valid and important. My favorite part of my job is getting to know my clients and I am truly honored and grateful to hear their stories—the good and the bad. My promise to you is to create a safe, nonjudgemental, and confidential space for you to be exactly who you are, and to help you grow and change in a way that feels right for you. I can’t wait to meet you!

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Mary Ann Godefroy

Offering therapy in California
License: LPCC,LPC,LAADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) I am committed to maintaining a personal environment that ensures my clients receive the individual attention and the services that best meet their needs. I work mainly with the individual adult population who are seeking to address a variety of issues and I provide comprehensive psychological services in a warm, supportive, and professional atmosphere. I help my clients effectively work through the problems they face in response to stress, difficult life transitions, relationship issues, emotional and behavioral difficulties as well as substance abuse and addiction. I use an integrative treatment approach to promote insight, individual growth, improved coping and interpersonal skills, and movement toward a contented and more fulfilling life. Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Psychodynamic/Insight-Oriented, Interpersonal and Motivational Interviewing Therapy Techniques are used to facilitate personal growth and treat an array of specific issues. Some of the issues worked on include but are not limited to: Depression & other Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Substance Abuse/Addictions & Major Life Transitions. By applying complementary therapy approaches & techniques we will help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating!

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Richard Francisco

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementCoaching
35 years of experience

I am a licensed California psychologist with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients, in particular clients of color, with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & anger management. In terms of relationship issues, I have worked with couples in interracial relationships who have experienced issues of cultural differences. I am also an organizational psychologist and have done executive coaching as well as conducted workshops in improving communication and conflict management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, 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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Natalie Andre

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both California and Texas with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, 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. I have genuine unconditional positive regard for others and am very empathic towards life's struggles. 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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Kelly Gesker

Offering therapy in California
License: LCPC,NCC,BC-ADTR
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesDepression
27 years of experience

My name is Kelly Gesker and I'm a nationally licensed therapist. I currently live in Montana. You can take a look at my profile to learn a little bit more about my background and approach. Please also feel free to ask questions. Online counseling is fairly new and new to me. I felt a strong connection to what is troubling you and believe that I could help you work through these issues. My counseling style is pretty laid back. I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate, with a pretty good sense of humor. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles. I'm here to help you sort through the things that are difficult right now, and offer you a safe place to be open and honest without fear of judgment. You have taken the first and most important step by reaching out for help. I have been working with individuals and families for over 25+ years. You can read more about my background, education, experience, and counseling approach by clicking on my name on this page. I generally check messages here a few times per day Mon-Sat and respond as quickly as I can. I do appreciate your patience when it takes a bit longer at times, as I may be tending to other clients or professional/personal responsibilities. I'm sorry you are having a tough time right now, but I'm really glad you are reaching out. I'd like to help you work on the struggles you are facing; and offer you a safe place to explore your thoughts and feelings. It sounds like you have a great deal going and that this might be impacting your mood and energy. Once you respond to this message, I will send you some additional general information about how this online counseling process works, and then we can get started. Should you feel in need of urgent help or that you are in crisis at any time during our work together; please call 1-800-273-TALK 24 hours a day; or 911. This forum does not provide any type of emergency services, so I want to be sure you know who to contact if you need immediate help. You are not alone. Things can and will get better. I'm really looking forward to working with you!

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Erica Fitts

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

I am licensed in California with 9 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Jennifer Greene

Offering therapy in California
Career difficultiesCoaching
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, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & executive and professional 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. 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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Maria Favela Castro

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
4 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in trauma-informed, culturally responsive therapy for individuals, couples, and families. My approach is grounded in cultural humility and evidence-based practices, including EMDR and CBT, and I provide therapy in both English and Spanish. I work with clients across a range of backgrounds, helping them feel respected, understood, and empowered in their healing journey. Throughout my career, I have focused on supporting individuals with a variety of needs, from personal and relational challenges to more complex issues such as substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. In addition to individual and family therapy, I facilitate group sessions, lead crisis interventions, and collaborate with community resources to offer comprehensive, long-term support. I also have a strong foundation in child and family services, where I’ve worked extensively with youth and adults experiencing trauma, behavioral challenges, and life transitions. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can openly explore their struggles and receive guidance tailored to their unique strengths and circumstances. Whether you’re seeking to overcome personal challenges, improve family dynamics, or navigate a difficult transition, I am here to support you with compassion, empathy, and dedication. Together, we’ll work toward achieving your mental health and wellness goals, building resilience and hope for the future.

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Roberta Reid

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesBipolar disorderDepression
21 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression. My expertise is within the drug and alcohol field. 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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Monica Sanchez

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

I am licensed in California with 15 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 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.

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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