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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Starr Lee

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
9 years of experience

Hello, my name is Starr Lee, a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California. I have nine years of experience as a clinical therapist, working with individuals and families from diverse communities. I worked with a wide range of clients struggling with PTSD, trauma, grief and loss, stress, anxiety, depression and relationship issues. I provide person-centered therapy with the focus of self-awareness and self-acceptance to encourage growth. My therapeutic stance is to encourage self-exploration of thoughts and feelings, looking at every aspect of a person’s life to identify strengths and build resiliency. Therapy is focus on you and exploring the use of your skills and abilities to develop small changes that will lead to bigger changes. I have training in a range of modalities including art therapy, parenting skills, grief counseling, solution-focused, strength-based model, family therapy, existential therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I take a holistic approach to therapy, addressing an individual as a whole person. My goal is to build a meaningful relationship with you through unconditional positive regard, empathy, and genuineness on your path to regain health, wholeness and wellness. I am looking forward to getting to know you on your journey of self-discovery and healing.

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Perla Ray

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
17 years of experience

I am Dual licensed in California with 17 years of professional work experience. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and was awarded a certification as a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression in all life cycles, struggling young adults , coping with chemical dependency, trauma and abuse, healing from toxic relationships & bipolar disorder to name a few. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment in order to achieve healing. 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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Natalya Kuzmicheva

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, & 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. It takes courage to seeking 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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Daniel Zarate Lustre

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 and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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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Joanna Bifone

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
25 years of experience

I am committed to providing a safe, supportive and non judgmental space for clients to explore what is causing distress or pain, what may be impeding life satisfaction, as well as ways to improve relationships, build self awareness, and enhance coping skills to navigate life challenges moving forward. Everyone needs assistance at times, and I believe that therapy can provide the space and foundation to better understand ourselves, to heal, and to move forward with a more grounded sense of self. My specialties include assisting individuals who are coping with depression, anxiety, difficulties with self worth, relationship/marital issues, pregnancy/parenthood, fertility/miscarriage, adoption, young adult and life transition issues, cancer, grief and loss, as well as the chaos, upheaval and isolation associated with world events during the past few years. In addition to my clinical experience, graduate work and licensure, I have additional training in couples/marital therapy through the Gottman Institute, and have completed their Bringing Baby Home program. I am also trained in Promoting First Relationships, and hold an Infant Mental Health Certificate through the University of Washington.

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Genevieve Gonzales

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & intimacy related issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion and it is my intention to facilitate healing and resolution to suffering and issues. I do not fully employ the traditional therapy role of validating feelings or beliefs that are not serving you, but instead collaborate with you to find solutions and move your forward away from outdated ways of thinking or being. My specialty is hypnotherapy and understanding how the unconscious mind influences how we feel and how we can heal. I incorporate this modality into all of the resolution and healing work that we will be doing together, whether you are seeking individual or couples sessions. I will tailor our sessions to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes curiosity and courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support and guide you in that journey.

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David Raya

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

As a licensed clinician in the area of Los Angeles County with over 6 years of professional experience, I specialize in providing comprehensive support for individuals facing various challenges. My expertise includes helping my clients manage stress, anxiety, grief, loss, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and depression. I firmly believe that everyone has unique strengths that can help them overcome obstacles. Taking the first step towards a more fulfilling and joyful life requires courage, and I am here to provide the support you need. My approach is holistic, as I carefully assess all aspects of a person's life to gain a comprehensive understanding and guide them towards their desired outcomes. My ultimate goal is to empower individuals to navigate life's complexities, and embracing their distinctive strengths by utilizing a spiritual worldview. I would like to embark on this journey with you to work towards healing, growth, and purpose-driven living in order to create a brighter future.

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Michael Gerber

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Randi Halcon

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Hello, I am Randi and I have been helping people work through life challenges since 2012. I received my Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from California Lutheran University. Most of my experience comes from working with adults as they navigate symptoms of depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, relationship challenges or just wanting to become a better version of themselves. I view therapy as a collaborative relationship where I am helping people find resolution in their current struggles. I approach therapy as a place where we can work together to reach goals that are established early on in therapy. I utilize a person centered approach in session combined with various therapy modalities including CBT, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing and EMDR. Using these interventions and modalities in session we will work towards gaining insight and better coping skills that will help achieve therapy goals and extend new methods of coping towards better functioning for the future. When you leave sessions with me my hope is that you have better insight, tools to help decrease any negative feelings, and feel more confident in your ability to manage challenges that life throws our way.

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Jennifer Pelo

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Greetings! I am a licensed professional counselor and have been a professional School counselor for the past 20 years. I started a private practice 9 years ago. My philosophy of therapy is all about building a solid relationship with you. You will need to feel you can trust me first. I also believe that each person holds their own answers to life’s questions. You have the wisdom and strength inside of you to know what to do. I am here to support you and walk beside you on this part of the journey. Trying therapy for the first time takes courage. It can also be hard if you have tried therapy in the past and didn’t have a good experience. People are different, so not every therapist or type of therapy will fit the best for every person. You will know what is best for you and I will always respect your right to choose that. Please feel free to reach out and let me know if you are interested in working together!

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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