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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Autumn Jones

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Welcome to Better Help! Making the decision to explore your vulnerabilities with a mental health professional can be difficult. I applaud you for stepping out of your comfort zone and into change and rediscovery. My name is Autumn Jones and I believe that building trust by creating a clinical space free from judgment has allowed me to also create a professional connection and rapport. Some of my most important work has been helping people adjust to change while working through both physical and mental challenges resulting from depression, anxiety, trauma, poor self-image, adjusting to illness and stress. Although I am skilled at using various treatment modalities such as strengths-based therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing and mindfulness, I maintain flexibility depending on your needs and preferences. This approach enables me to follow your lead to help you meet your desired goals and expectations. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Michigan, California and Florida. I earned a dual degree in Psychology and Sociology and a master’s degree in Social Work. I have committed to a life of discovery and growth, which provided me with the opportunity to travel the world while meeting people with unique cultural differences and traditions. Over the past 13 years, much of what I have learned personally and professionally has been incorporated into my work. I look forward to working with you as you seek clarity and embrace growth. Please feel free to contact me anytime through Better Help. I usually check messages twice each day of the week. I offer messaging, live chat, phone and video sessions with availability during evenings and weekends.

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Nash Solano

Offering therapy in California
Addictions
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions. 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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Laura Spera

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
14 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, coping with addictions, relationship 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. Life is a challenge for most of us and finding help and support to find more ease and happiness is important. 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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Linda Angel

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemADHD
10 years of experience

Choosing a therapist is like choosing a partner: it’s about the fit that’s right for you. I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with a variety of clients including teens, young adults, older adults and couples. I use a cognitive behavioral approach which basically means determining how an individual’s perceptions and thoughts affects their behavior. Understanding that leads to providing tools for better communication. I try to create a therapeutic environment that is comfortable, caring and nonjudgmental, but yet direct. My goal is to help people feel better than when they first sat down with me. I may be the therapist who is the right choice for you.

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Karyn Mendoza

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I came to this work with a deep desire to support others on their journey toward healing and wholehearted living. My approach is a trauma informed lens that affirms client’s culture, gender identity, and strengths. I create safe, inclusive, and warm environments that are uplifting while giving space to address the challenges that are standing in the way of living your best life. I’ve worked with people of all ages who identify with issues of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, work-related issues, self-esteem, substance abuse, and day to day stressors. I believe our work is best accomplished when we work authentically and collaboratively.

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Mary Dallman

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsGriefEating disordersCareer difficultiesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California, South Dakota and Washington with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, eating disorders, & career difficulties. 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.

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Raquel Preciado

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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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Stephanie Cristerna-Casillas

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

Hello! I'm Stephanie Cristerna-Casillas, a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to fostering a safe and non-judgmental space for clients. My goal is to assist individuals and families in building strong, meaningful, and intimate relationships. I specialize in helping those dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and family conflicts.I focus on fostering a collaborative and supportive therapeutic environment that is compassionate and empathetic, allowing clients to feel safe, understood, and empowered. While my primary treatment approaches are rooted in Client-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I prioritize meeting clients where they are and tailoring the therapeutic process to suit their individual needs.

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Orsini Estrada

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with 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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Karen Rugama

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

The field of psychology is my passion. My professional journey began even before graduate school, and I've since honed my clinical skills in various therapeutic settings. Over the years, I've engaged in numerous roles within mental health, providing me with a comprehensive understanding of the field. My experience includes helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, and navigating life changes. I'm eager to continue offering services to those seeking change in their lives. I deeply respect the courage it takes to reach out for help, and I admire your ability to do so.

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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