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. Glenda Baez

Offering therapy in California
License: PsyD, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesDepression
19 years of experience

My name is Glenda Baez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in San Diego, California. I have a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology and have a doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am bilingual as Spanish is my second language and frequently conduct therapy in this language. I currently own a online teletherapy private practice and work with primarily individuals and couples. I have 19 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked as an outpatient therapist in clinics, non-profit settings, doing therapy in a preschool setting, I have also done extensive utilization management and quality management work. I have extensive experience working with very young children, school age children and adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I believe in being empathetic, warm, supportive, as well as empowering my clients in finding solutions. I approach issues from a solution-focused approach and also use cognitive-behavioral techniques to help address issues and improve self-esteem, self-awareness, improve mood, and work towards moving forward with life.

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Tara Tobin

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionADHD
19 years of experience

Hello, my name is Rhiannon (I go by my middle name). I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I have been providing therapy since 2005, primarily working with children, adolescents, parents, families, and couples. I specialize in helping children, teens, and young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and attention difficulties as well as assisting parents with skills to help their children develop emotionally, academically, and socially. My passion is to help all ages learn effective coping strategies to manage challenges related to focus, anxiety, depression, and anger/aggression. Another strong focus of my practice is with couples and the various relationships in our lives. Here, learning and mastering positive and effective communication and problem-solving skills is key to creating supportive partnerships and increasing our quality of life. Originally from New York, I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a Minor in Studio Art in Baltimore, Maryland, and then obtained my Master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy with a concentration in Art Therapy from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California. I utilize interventions from cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, family systems theory, art therapy, and mindfulness practices. These approaches support the processes of increasing awareness of our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, developing more effective strategies/skills to make changes and reach personal goals, and ultimately lead to a sense of feeling more balanced and satisfied with our lives. I believe that in order for the therapeutic process to be successful, we will focus on your strengths and you being the “expert” in your life. As a facilitator of growth and awareness, I look forward to working with you!

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Tyler Cole

Offering therapy in California
License: LPC,LPCC,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience

Hi, welcome to the BetterHelp community. I want to commend you for the courage it took to take the first steps in seeking support at this time. My name is Tyler Cole and I am a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor in the states of California, Colorado, and Washington. I am also a Nationally Certified Counselor and bring with me 7+ years of experience working in a wide variety of settings. I have experience providing counseling across a spectrum of diverse individual and family needs in community clinics, schools, residential care, and private practice. Throughout my experience I have had the opportunity to support individuals and families in working toward and meeting their goals in a wide array of considerations including: managing depression and anxiety, overcoming situational stress, finding opportune work-life balance, enhancing and improving communication and relationship fulfillment, and fostering overall improved inter and intrapersonal wellbeing. Additionally, I have advanced training and experience in addressing concerns related to trauma and abuse, parenting and family concerns, and attachment dynamics. I am a firm believer in the research that indicates that the counseling experience will only be as helpful as the strength of the therapeutic alliance. As such, I take pride in working to create an accepting, non-judgmental, supportive, and safe space in which we can work together. It is my goal to fully understand your story, values, goals, and relationships that are of the most importance to you in order assist you in reaching your goals. Most often, individuals and families tend to know, intuitively, what they want and need and then tend to move in that direction when barriers can be navigated around. My role is to compassionately assist in navigating any potential areas where things are feeling stuck and unhelpful. Some of my approaches to our shared work include the use of techniques derived from Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR. However, each of these evidence-based interventions are grounded in a firm commitment to a client-centered and strengths-based approach that highlights the individual and family as the expert on your life and needs. Reaching out for support is not always an easy or clear decision to make. Again, I commend you for taking this step. Whether I have the opportunity to work with you or not, I wish you all the best in your endeavors to improve your overall wellbeing.

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Erin Haentjens

Offering therapy in California
License: MA ,LMFT,Cert. Exercise and Sport Performance
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
8 years of experience

I believe in working with the whole person- mind, body and spirit through body-centered and movement-oriented psychotherapy. This means I support my clients to develop a deep trust in their own intuition and a positive relationship with their bodies and themselves. The awareness that comes with this work brings authentic self-acceptance, feelings of connection, and confidence. I provide a supportive and safe experience, giving my clients space to navigate through their lives in their own way while assisting them with recognizing and building on their strengths as well as their internal resources. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. In addition to a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology, I have a Graduate Certificate in Exercise and Sport Performance. I provide psychotherapy services to individuals and families who suffer from depression, stress and anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, eating disorders, addiction, and life changes. I have over 8 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in clinical and community settings. These settings include facilitating life skills camps for incarcerated and at-risk youth; counseling services to children, adolescents, and families in school, home, group home, and foster care settings; co-facilitating a women’s therapy group; individual psychotherapy to adults, and working with athletes and individuals with injuries. Additionally, I have experience supporting and coaching athletes of various abilities, age groups and persuasions. I understand from my own experience as a collegiate and semi-professional athlete how our identities become linked to our roles as players and team members as well as how our life-traumas, athletic training, and injuries impact our experience of ourselves and our bodies. Building on personal experience, I have a particular calling to work with individuals and athletes suffering from physical injuries supporting their rebuilding and resilience from the inside out. Credentials Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), California MA Counseling Psychology Somatic Specialization, John F. Kennedy University Graduate Certificate Exercise and Sport Performance, John F. Kennedy University

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Sheree Moore

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Hello! My name is Sheree Moore. I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker with 15 years’ experience. I have worked with children, families and adults who need support, practical strategies and tools as they work toward building a better life for themselves. I am knowledgeable about foster parenting, child welfare and older adults and their issues. My therapeutic approach over the last 10 years has evolved into Relational Therapy, a collaborative and flexible interaction that explores issues that affect your relationship with others. While we can’t change the difficult situations of the past; we can work together to better understand and resolve the issues in your life, increase your self-awareness, insight and move you toward a greater sense of wellbeing. If you have experienced trauma and are showing symptoms of anxiety, stress, depression. I can also apply complementary therapy approaches such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Brain spotting and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to enhance your healing. I’m a believer in change. It’s immensely rewarding to see my clients, get to know themselves, and grow from the knowledge they gain. I look forward to speaking with you about how we can work together to further enrich your life.

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Amy Watson-Clancy

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I have provided therapy to adults for 9 years and I am currently licensed to practice in California. My experience is primarily in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help adults from diverse backgrounds cope with stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, health issues, aging, relationships, and low elf-esteem. I offer a collaborative and supportive partnership based on respect and empowerment. In a warm, non-judgmental environment you will be able to talk freely about sensitive or problematic issues in your life and gain perspective, insight, and skills to help overcome these challenges. I place emphasis on balanced self-care, compassion, developing awareness, and aligning with your values. I am committed to creating a safe supportive relationship for those who have experienced any form of discrimination, hate, or violence. I welcome members of the LGBTQ community and avoid making assumptions about how others experience themselves within our larger society. Now that you have courageously signed up for therapy, I look forward to meeting with you to take the next step.

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Gregory Pelczar

Offering therapy in California
GriefParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, anger management, & 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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Danielle Moore

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
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, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Lilian Zulewski

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping 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, 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. 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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Lidia Gutierrez

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping 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, anxiety, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. 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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