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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Amy Torn

Offering therapy in California
License: MFT
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

Hello! I am a California- and Arizona-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with 25 years of experience counseling children, teens, and adults. I have trained and practiced extensively as a cognitive-behavioral therapist, and I also have a passion for mindfulness-based and holistic approaches for greater well-being. As a recovering worrier and formerly fierce self-critic, I find great peace and joy in Eastern and Western spiritual wisdom. I am happy to offer these perspectives to those who are interested. I also love to share self-compassion and mindfulness approaches to better cope with emotions and to address patterns of thought and behavior. In counseling, I encourage people to cultivate greater self-acceptance; release themselves from the burden of limiting, distressing beliefs; and find meaning and opportunity in challenging experiences. I offer a Spiritually-oriented, compassionate, research-based, and collaborative approach to counseling. I have a passion and specialty in assisting adults who are experiencing anxiety and those who wish to be more loving/accepting of themselves. I also enjoy helping individuals who are seeking deeper contentment or meaning in their lives - people who want to put new perspectives and skills to use, empowering themselves to feel greater peace and joy. Most of my clinical experience has been in outpatient settings (group and private practice). I have also worked in intensive-outpatient programs, providing cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness therapy. In addition, I am trained in a dream interpretation model developed at the University of Maryland, for those interested in using their dreams to better understand and enhance their waking lives. My other professional interests are: astrology, Reiki (Japanese energy healing), and functional nutrition (food for mood). Personally, I enjoy hiking, meditation, Spiritual talks and films, learning Spanish, and caring for animals. I lived in Southern California for two decades and relocated to Southern Arizona two years ago. Thank you for viewing my site. It will be a joy to connect with you!

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Dr. Karin Hudson

Offering therapy in California
License: PsyD,MA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Welcome and congratulations on taking this step. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist in California and have been working in the counseling field for close to 20 years. Prior to my counseling career I was an International Montessori Teacher for more than a decade. I am originally from Austria and moved to California 25 years ago. I have also worked a great deal in animal assisted therapy including Equine Therapy and am strong believer that animals provide meaningful emotional support. My training is deeply rooted in attachment theory and I have an existential-humanistic approach to life, which means I would like to support you in the present moment with interventions that work for you "right now" and potentially explore life patterns that are keeping you from reaching your full potential. My clients tell me that I have a down to earth approach, direct but warm and with concrete goals to lessen your symptoms. I believe in treating people with dignity, respect and compassion and am not a big believer in stigmatizing labels. My approach includes a variety of counseling styles such as cognitive-behavioral, humanistic and psychodynamic interventions and I will tailor your treatment plan to your unique specific needs. If you think we could be a good fit - connect with me and we will find out. I look forward to working with you

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Eryn Keller-Arndt

Offering therapy in California
Trauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 7 years of professional work experience. I have previously worked in community mental health settings and hospice. I have experience in helping clients coping with grief and loss, major life transitions, addiction, self esteem, domestic violence, trauma, homelessness, depression, and anxiety. I believe that everyone deserves to be treated with resect, an open mind, and compassion. I feel strongly that therapy should be tailored to fit each person's needs in respect to their desired outcomes, life experiences, and beliefs. My approach includes a combination of humanistic, cognitive, behavioral, and existential therapies, as well as motivational interviewing and trauma-focused techniques. I believe that therapy is a journey in which we work as a team to improve your quality of life. I look forward to working with you to create goals and a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes great strength to reach out for help and you should be proud. I am truly honored to work with you!

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Willie Denard

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I have been a Licensed Clinical Social worker and Mental Health Therapist in the State of California with over 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse and depression, as well as other life 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. 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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Andrea Plate

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
18 years of experience

I am licensed in California, with 18 years of professional work experience. For nearly 15 years I ran a residential substance abuse treatment program within the West Los Angeles Department of Veterans Affairs, serving those suffering from homelessness and chronic mental illness. Now working with individuals in the population at large, I do my best to help clients cope with: anxiety, personal and professional setbacks, addiction, major life changes, relationship conflicts and career concerns. I also refine and enhance my practice through teaching social welfare and addiction at a major West Los Angeles university. 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.

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Dr. Kristine Quallich

Offering therapy in California
License: PhD
LGBTFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoachingADHD
23 years of experience

Welcome, I am a licensed psychologist in the states of Ohio and California. I am also a Certified School Psychologist who has worked for over 25 years in the field of education helping families and students with academic, behavioral, and social-emotional issues. I have also worked in a community-based therapy setting helping adults with anger management, employment matters that can be managed, and family concerns. I provide primarily cognitive-behavioral services with a focus on client-centered practices. I have extensive training in a range of modalities including family-therapy as well. I also teach at Kent State University. I enjoy meditation and exercise and truly believe that we can all find our purpose and meaning in life.

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Tanasia Betts

Offering therapy in California
License: LPC,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
8 years of experience

My name is Tanasia Betts and I am a licensed professional counselor. Here’s what you can expect working with me: * A safe space to be you! You don’t have to pretend or wear the mask here. * Evidence based skills to help you better cope with life stressors & concerns. * Results! I will guide you in your healing journey. Healing is a process that comes with ups and downs.Your future self will thank you for the work you do now. You’re worthy! You deserve to be emotionally and mentally healthy! My goal is to understand each client and their story. The counseling process is guided by your concerns and goals. My counseling style is non judgmental and person centered. As we work on treatment goals guided by your most important concerns, skills will be introduced to help you better cope with life stressors. My approach is strength based, trauma informed, cognitive behavioral therapy and expressive therapy. You’re here on purpose. Let’s get started working on your goals today❗️

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Paola Najarro

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySelf esteem
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with 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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Sharon Lavin

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

I am licensed in California with 36 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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Annabel Thomson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, & depression. I also have experience working with teens, young adults, adults, families, and groups. 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!

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 BetterHelp therapists in California does not offer diagnostic or medication management services in therapy.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor or therapists?

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, working with:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders requiring therapy
  • Anxiety disorders in need of therapeutic support
  • Depression or depressive mental health conditions
  • Adjustment issues in need of therapeutic support
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief therapy
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma therapy
  • Relationship conflicts and mental health concerns

Finding a therapist in California 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 therapy site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the therapy 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 therapy with a licensed therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person California therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $65 to $100 per week. 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.

Is it possible to find a therapist, counselor, or psychology practitioner that offers affordable therapy?

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.

What can a psychologist help me with in therapy?

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 in-person or online therapy with a therapist in California?

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.

Are online therapy sessions 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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