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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Kari Hidalgo

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
10 years of experience

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

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brandi ellis

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with depression, & relationship 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jessica Criner

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
7 years of experience

There are seasons in life that are very unpredictable, 2020 for example! If you are finding that the last few months, weeks, maybe even years have been full of overwhelming amounts of change, transition and uncertainty, your are not alone. I understand the uncertainty of life can cause depression, anxiety, and unresolved traumas to arise. In every client I have ever seen, trauma has been experienced and expressed in different ways. My goal is to assist you with getting to the heart of the issues you are enduring, while embracing the resiliency and strength it took for you to make it this far. Emotional healing and relief is near. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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. I specialize in trauma-informed care and practice a modality called Brainspotting. Brainspotting is a modality that focuses on healing the brain and the body. I also specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy, which is a modality that is utilized when working with couples. Racial and religious traumas cause dysregulation in our bodies, minds, and hearts. Many of my clients have been touched by the Department of Social Services & affected by the foster care system and the church universal. Sessions often focus on past trauma, triggers, attachment issues, affects of transracial adoptions, addictions, and substance abuse.

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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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Tracie Lima

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
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, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and you can feel good in taking this first step.

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Zachary Hensley

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

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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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Daniel Marshall

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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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Amani Odom

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

Living in the moment means letting go of the past and not waiting for the future. It means living your life consciously, aware that each moment you breathe is a gift. ~ Oprah Winfrey My name is Amani Odom and I was born and raised in the beautiful city of sunshine and palm trees; Los Angeles, CA. Born into a family of Black social service advocates and leaders I grew up with an undying love for my community and compassionate about nurturing it. As a clinician with a Masters in Social Work, (MSW) and a registered Associate Clinical Social Worker ( #84067), I provide services throughout Los Angeles county, virtually and in-person targeting both adolescents and adults. Having received my MSW from the University of Southern California and Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Berkeley, I have also worked as a Children’s Social Worker with the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). I am a witness to the family stories of trauma, racism, environmental and social injustices that negatively impact family structures. This experience influenced my desire to become a clinician to support the healing process of individuals subject to historical life events and current circumstances which circumvent individuals from accessing their full potentials and their capacity to influence their lives with efficacy. With longevity in clinical practice, I work with individuals facing life transitions, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma and other issues that stymie hope and joy, desires and dreams; and life goals. Adjusting and adapting to life’s moments and experiences can be both fulfilling and challenging. As a collaborative partner, I will assist exploring and facing the trials that hinder moving to the next chapter of one’s life. By employing evidenced-based practices and interventions that are tailored to meet individual needs, we write that next chapter. Once a decision is made to move forward, the individual will define next steps, and will ultimately decide the road to be traveled. I provide a containing and regulating space and supportive interventions for this. Congratulations on taking the step to embrace your journey fully!

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Griselda Trujillo

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, eating disorders, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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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LaRaye Lyles

Offering therapy in California
LGBTParenting issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigueADHD
24 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, compassion fatigue, & concentration, memory. I also have experience working with focus (adhd). 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!

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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