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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Gail Wylde

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

My name is Gail Wylde. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with young to older adults. I have experience working with and helping people recover from depression, panic, social anxiety, trauma, and low self-esteem. I have worked as a social worker and as a therapist in many different settings including county adult services, crisis stabilization, and private practice therapy. My counseling style is empathetic and collaborative. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, solution-focused, and acceptance and commitment therapy. I am a good listener and find that when people feel free to talk about what is bothering them, we can collaboratively come to solutions. It takes courage to seek counseling and if you are ready, I am here to help. I look forward to working with you!

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MAIDA FERRAES

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTGriefDepression
7 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California (LMFT) and I have been working in the counseling field since 2017. I have experience conducting individual and group therapy, in-office and both residential and outpatient settings with clients presenting with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship and parenting issues, teen concerns, and a wide range of challenges including grief/loss, insomnia, addiction, trauma, abuse, bipolar, as well as personal growth, adjustment issues, and crisis. In my work with clients, I use some leading psychological modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing (MI). I am enthusiastic, energetic, self-motivated, compassionate, and patient. I am a true believer that a good clinician should possess adequate knowledge relating to all areas in the field and should have good interpersonal skills. Also, one should have a stable mindset and should be a levelheaded personality, which will help in providing correct counseling. Each individual requires special attention with not just patience but a sense of understanding and compassion.

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Christina Weyer

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
13 years of experience

Hello! My name is Christina Weyer, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have 10 years of experience working with a variety of clients (individuals, families, and groups) in a community mental health clinic in the Southern California area. I have had the opportunity to help clients of all ages in working through trauma, depression and anxiety by utilizing evidence-based practices of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Seeking Safety, and Motivational Interviewing, as well as traditional therapy interventions. I attained my Bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Channel Islands in 2007, and went on to complete my Master's degree in Psychology at Phillips Graduate Institute in 2009. I understand that asking for help can be overwhelming, and my therapeutic style is eclectic to match the diverse needs of my clients. I use modalities of client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and strength-based therapy in order to help my clients reach their greatest potential. I don't focus on labels, but rather want to know you as an individual, and strive to understand where you are at in your life, and what experiences you have had that contribute to who you are. My hope is to be able to assist and support you with working through whatever emotional and relational challenges you are having in your life, so you can feel your best! I look forward to working with you!

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Anastasia Rivera

Offering therapy in California
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with experience working as an adult and Teen therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting challenges, career challenges, behavior issues and end of life issues. I also helped many children and adults who have experienced trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is solutions focused and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution focused, psycho-dynamic and client centered approach. I will tailor our sessions and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. You are always the lead in sessions and I do my best to ensure you are challenged but comfortable. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you.

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Joseph Delgado

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuse
8 years of experience

How can I be of service? I have been a practicing clinician for 7 years. I have experience with individuals, families, couples, and adolescents. I have a bachelors degree in pastoral ministry from Life Pacific University, and a masters degree in marriage and family therapy from Hope International University. I am fully certified to provide EMDR trauma counseling. I am a family systems therapist and my approach is to walk alongside you in the journey and adventure that is your life.

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Jaime Askew

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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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Deana Porter

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Sharmaine Whitten

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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.

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Cesar Garcia Herrera

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Susan Futterman

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

I am a licensed therapist in California with nearly 12 years of experience centered on complex grief and complex trauma. I also work with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, and other disorders.

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Dr. Oceana Free

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

Hello! I’m Dr. Oceana Free, a licensed therapist in California currently providing therapy to adult individuals. I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, heartbreak & loneliness. I offer eclectic, psychodynamic, existential, mindfulness, faith-based & spiritual therapy. I have 25 years of professional experience in mental health & have a LMFT & PhD. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity & compassion. Each person is unique & has unique challenges. I am here to support & empower you in your journey.

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Alysha Kim

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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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Joanne Ricketts

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
23 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, and self esteem. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am with you on this journey towards wholeness!

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Jade Harris

Offering therapy in California
Family conflicts
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, family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with 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.

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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