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.
Kari Hidalgo
Welcome! My name is Kari Hidalgo and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in the state of California and Colorado. I have been providing direct counseling services for over ten years and tele mental health services for over five years. I have worked with individuals, couples and families as they navigate different seasons of life. I have helped clients manage trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, stress, postpartum depression, difficult relationships and parenting challenges while encouraging, supporting, holding hope, exploring self care and helping them identify healthy boundaries. I have always loved listening to people’s stories and walking alongside them in their journey. I am passionate about helping individuals and families develop healthier, more positively connected relationships. As a wife and working mother of four, I am aware of how challenging it is to live a balanced, fulfilled life, therefore I find it incredibly rewarding to help all people, whatever they might be struggling with. I am also passionate about helping individuals as they approach different stages of life. I am trained in the Trauma and Community Resiliency Models and EMDR and often utilize Solution Focused Therapy and Mindfulness in my sessions. I recently became a certified grief counselor. I desire to not only help those who have experienced significant trauma but also those dealing with everyday stressors, to find peace, joy and hope in this otherwise chaotic world. Reaching out for help can be very scary. I am here to help in whatever way I can, but in particular to be a consistent, dedicated support as long as necessary. Looking Forward, Kari
Susan Garner
I bring many years of clinical experience, my personal life experiences, and professional training to my work with clients. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 18 years, working with clients from 17-70+ years of age, including individuals, families, couples (including same sex couples), and those from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The common denominator in my work with every client is the depth of my commitment to their healing and personal growth. Together we will define your objectives and goals. The kinds of problems that each individual brings into therapy are often complicated and not usually neatly categorized. Human beings are complex and though many areas of functioning may be impacted, the source of these often result from a core emotional or psychological injury, or a traumatic event. Sometimes dysfunctional family of origin dynamics have adversely impacted our ability to have healthy, high functioning relationships and we need to learn new skills. For some, therapy can help to improve performance with personal goals. Whatever it is that you are seeking help with, it is well understood that the first step toward changing anything is in identifying the problem. Whatever your objectives my be (even when these are not clearly identified or understood), I am confident that I can help you gain clarity and work towards achieving whatever your goals may be. Therapy has been described as the "talking" cure and sometimes the very act of talking or sharing of experience and feelings with an experienced professional can help...help in the moment to not feel so alone or crazy, and in the long run, to have the clarity, confidence and self-esteem to create a life by design. Studies have shown that there are two important factors in determining the success of therapy: 1) the client's perception of the therapists skills and knowledge and 2) the relationship, or therapeutic alliance, between therapist and client. I offer you my respect, compassion and acceptance. I have studied a variety therapy disciplines and blend traditions from the East (mindfulness, insight-oriented therapy) and West (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-CBT), somatic body-mind centered, and psychodynamic approaches to effectively address individual needs and differences. I have successfully worked with: relationships, marital problems, self-esteem, communication skills, healthy boundaries, self-esteem and self-confidence, mood disorders, co-dependency, unresolved traumas, anxiety, changing counter-productive patterns, life transitions including loss of loved ones, divorce, blended families.
Cheryl Wharton
I have had a passion to help people since I was very young. I have been doing professional counseling for almost 30 years. I have a Degree in Psychology, a Masters Degree in Marriage & Family Therapy and am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California. I’m an experienced facilitator of health and healing for individuals, couples and families. With 30 years of experience in counseling, I know what it takes to move one into their desired path. My proven methods, will help you build and live a more authentic and powerful life. I create a place for individuals to talk about their experiences, to feel heard, knowing you’re valued, and feel a sense of belonging. My desire is to support you in identifying your strengths, facing life’s challenges, finding your purpose, building resilience, to grow and be vulnerable, to embrace your authentic self on your journey to a healthy lifestyle. I provide a safe, confidential and non-judgmental environment with understanding and respect. I use a holistic approach incorporating all aspects of the individual (psychological, social, emotional, physical and spiritual). It is often, not what happens in life, but how one deals with it. I believe the quality of your relationships, will determine the quality of your life. There are many things we can work on, where you will see your relationships improving. Many live with a life dominated by fear, and I can help you be an overcomer, instead of forever overcome. There are many areas I work in, however, I am interested in hearing from you and learning about you, your goals, desires and the pain. I believe that one should not export what isn't’ working in their own life. I have not only years of professional experience, but life experience as well, that has propelled me into a life, I never knew existed. I enjoy every day, the most amazing, loving relationship with my husband and I say that, to say this…. I know firsthand what a poor relationship is all about and I also know what it takes to get you from bad to Amazing. Nearly everyone can benefit from some direct, kind and professional support when an issue interferes with your enjoying a great life and Amazing relationships. Lack of effective support can interfere with rising above your circumstance, and being an overcomer to achieve what you want your life to be. I help people suffering from; Relationship issues, Dating, Anxiety, Depression, Fear, Coping, Panic Attacks, Low Self-Esteem, Stress, Grief and Loss, and Much More. Your reaching out, would telegraph to me that you don't want to just survive, but rather thrive. I can help you take the necessary steps... You "Matter".
Fred Lombardo
I am licensed in California with 35 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.
Alejandra Guzman-Valencia
I am a strong believer in meeting individuals where they are at that is, validating and supporting their current stage of change while encouraging them to actively visualize the best version of themselves. Together we will come up with treatment goals and we will work towards that at your speed. The first couple of sessions involve rapport building in which you and I get to know each other and determine if the therapeutic alliance is a good fit. As sessions progress, I will be here to support and encourage you every step of the way while also respecting your right to self determination. I am Alejandra Guzman-Valencia, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in a variety of settings and with different populations such as hospitals, schools, outpatient health clinics and with individuals struggling with end of life issues, chronic diseases, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, personality disorders and grief amongst others. My practice helps individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, family changes, life circumstances, interpersonal relationship issues and more. Together we will implement therapeutic practices and interventions that best meet your needs.
Laurel Lass
I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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.
Monica Blandford
I am licensed as an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience supporting clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, 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, I am simply there to help you find your path. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling, happy life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support and empower you on that journey.
Lynn Rogers
I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. Working with patients and families living with a life altering illness is a particular passion.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!
Elizabeth Shartle
I am a licensed clinical counselor in Ohio. For over fifteen years, I have worked with adults with addiction, anxiety, grief and depression. Many of my clients experienced past trauma, family conflicts, and issues with motivation and self-esteem. My vision of counseling is to come along side the person who is hurting to offer understanding and encouragement as you share your story so that together we can figure out a plan for moving forward. My counseling techniques emphasize behavioral strategies and interpersonal skills, while drawing on the tenets of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT emphasizes living and engaging in life according to your values so that you make intentional choices and feel better with the choices you make. My overall approach is person-centered, and our interaction will always be underscored by respect and genuine care. We want our lives to matter, and we want to be important to those we love. Being seen and heard is crucial, and sometimes, just feeling understood for a moment is priceless. I am very grateful to have the opportunity to work with you here in this forum!
Carlotta "Charly" Valdez
I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.
Tyson Smith
I am licensed in Utah with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & anger management. 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.
Juanita Equils
I am licensed in California with 15 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 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!
Evline Kamarzarian
I am licensed in California with 10 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 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Rachel Taylor
Life can be tough sometimes, and it can be a vulnerable act to reach out for support. I do my best to provide a person centered approach to help you reach your goals and resolve stuck beliefs that may be holding you back. I integrate various modalities, and tailor my approach to fit your needs. My approach was built from my experiences working in a trauma facility, community mental health care, and a managed care setting. If you think we may be a fit, please reach out and we can work together to create a plan that works for you.
Janet Natale
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have over 20 years experience. My experience includes working in private practice, providing services as a school-based therapist, and working in community based programs for adults and adolescents. My therapeutic range Includes relational counseling, addictions, emotional disorders and issues, counseling individuals, couples, and families, and providing therapeutic services for youth and families in the foster care system. I have worked extensively with various cultures and populations and believe that everyone has the tools within themselves needed for seeking solutions, healing, and growth. My approach is strength-based and motivational. I will provide guidance in helping you to uncover the tools needed for healing and growth and I will guide you in uncovering the blocks that prevent you from living your best life. Seeking counseling is a strength and not a weakness. Gaining awareness and knowledge is key to living a full life that is healthy and with purpose. I look forward to working with you towards your journey towards self-discovery, growth, and healing!
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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat featur
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
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.
Popular cities in California
- Los Angeles, CA
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- Fresno, CA
- Sacramento, CA
- Long Beach, CA
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- Bakersfield, CA
- Anaheim, CA
- Santa Ana, CA
- Riverside, CA
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