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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Christie Stegmaier

Offering therapy in California
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesDepression
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California (LMFT# 111636) with over eight years' experience. Along my journey of becoming a therapist, I have also received 40-hours of domestic violence training through House of Ruth; specializing in intimate partner violence. I have worked with individuals with a wide variety of issues including domestic violence, depression, grief, anxiety, relationship and intimacy issues, parenting issues, personality disorders, and OCD. I have also worked with many individuals who have experienced trauma and abuse. Although I am more of a direct therapist, I am also a warm and interactive therapist. I create a nurturing and safe environment that is non-judgmental and caring. I often will use a solution-focused approach, providing options and tools necessary to make immediate changes in your life. However, every individual is unique, and I tailor my therapy sessions to fit what you are looking for. I also see therapy as a collaborative effort - we work together to create solutions. I will remain by your side on your therapeutic journey. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life, and to take the first steps towards positive change. I am dedicated to helping individuals find ways that work best for their needs, and I respect every individual's uniqueness. I am committed to helping my clients develop attainable and valuable treatment goals that will lead them to achieve lasting positive life changes and personal growth.

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Shardae Collins

Offering therapy in California
License: MHP,MA,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Hello my name is Shardae Collins I am a licensed clinical social worker who offers telehealth therapy to individuals residing in WA. I support individuals in recognizing their strength and resilience regardless of the cards that were dealt to them. My therapeutic approach explores your environment and lived experience to better understand your strengths, needs, and hopes for the future. I believe that you have the power to heal yourself. I am simply a guide. I provide a non-judgmental safe space for you to freely express yourself. My approach is one that is direct, culturally relevant, sensitive, trauma informed, and non-shaming. I specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions, and trauma and PTSD. I offer individual therapy rooted in mindfulness. Therapy can be hard and sometimes scary. I get it, I am here to support you on this journey. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to healing and self-discovery. I have availability Monday-Thursday from 7AM-2PM PST and Fridays from 7am-11am PST.

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Lona Tu

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a family and marriage therapist licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience assisting clients with a wide variety of concerns including stress and anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, & coping with life changes. I have also supported clients through grief, trauma, and boundary setting. I believe in working with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared freely to be worked through together. My therapy style is collaborative and interactive. My approach combines humanistic, Bowen, psychodynamic, and existential therapy. It is flexible and will be adapted to meet your unique and specific needs and circumstances. It takes courage and perseverance to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am happy to be here to support and empower you through this process. If I seem like a good fit for what you are looking for, I look forward to working with you!

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Toppacio Rodriguez

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
5 years of experience

Hi there, my name is Toppacio Rodriguez but you can call me Topy, and my pronouns are she/her (ella/ellas). I am bilingual and can provide support in English and in Spanish. I want to steal a moment to write ‘thank you’ for taking the time to be here. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with a variety of people, from different economic statuses, ethnicities, cultures, races, genders and sexual orientations. I enjoy working on a systemic level with kids, teens, adults and couples. This means that we would work on the whole self and nurture the different aspects in your life. The modalities that I use come from an array of therapeutic theories. I am certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP). I have worked with children who have atypical brains, such as, children on the Autism Spectrum Disorder and children who have Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. I have worked with survivors of sexual assault (children to adults) and of domestic violence. 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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Sirena Campagna

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

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with 7 years of professional work experience. My therapeutic approach is through a trauma informed lens. My primary theoretical approaches are Person-Centered, Attachment, and Psychodynamic with trainings in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and TF-CBT (Trauma Focused CBT). I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I have six years of experience as a mental health clinician where I primarily worked with families, teens, and young adults within a non-profit organization. Additionally, within those six years, I worked as a clinician at a high school, for four years, where I engaged with students in coping with mental health conditions that are common for that developmental stage due to stressors (e.g. depression, trauma, social anxiety, ADHD, ODD, and OCD), as well as collaborated with school staff in support of the students. In the last year of my professional experience, I transitioned to a private practice to continue to diversify and build on my current clinical experience working with clients ranging from ages 6 to 60. I have experience providing family, individual, and couple’s counseling. I focus on the therapeutic relationship where I connect with each of my clients personally through their interests, strengths, passions, and values. I prioritize establishing a safe space for people to be authentic and engage in self-exploration (i.e. who they are/how they want to show up in the world). I believe that if you carry your genuine self to any life role that decision-making, coping with mental health, family conflict, etc. will be more effectively navigated from a strong sense of self. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in navigating life challenges. Each person has the wisdom within to answer questions and navigate life – my role as a guide is to support and facilitate clients to build a healthy relationship with themselves and then with others. 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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Melinda Dauer

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepression
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & parenting issues. 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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Dr. LaQuista Erinna

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

I am licensed in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Connecticut, North Carolina, Massachusetts, California, and Georgia with over 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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!

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Judith Fleming

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

As a licensed therapist based in California with over 6 years of professional experience, I specialize in supporting clients through a variety of challenges including stress, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, as well as issues related to motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I firmly believe in your inherent strengths and capabilities as the expert of your own narrative. My role is to provide a supportive and empowering environment as you navigate towards a more fulfilling and happier life. Taking the first step towards change requires courage, and I am dedicated to walking alongside you in this journey. I see myself as a facilitator of growth and transformation, committed to creating a nonjudgmental space where you can explore and evolve at your own pace. My approach is encouraging, light-hearted, intentional, and honest, guided by a compass of ethics, integrity, and healthy boundary-setting. I understand that each individual is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. My goal is to help you harness your innate gifts and strengths, empowering you to achieve your goals and manifest positive changes in your life. My clients often include youth, young adults, and individuals navigating challenges such as infertility, identity formation, manifestation and goal setting, processing difficult past challenges, and grief.

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Kimberly Thornton

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Kimberly is an experienced therapist with more than 25 years in the mental health field in various settings of residential, schools, in home, non-profits, community, hospital, and outpatient settings. Kimbelry has experience working with diverse clients, adults, children, adolescents, families, couples, individuals. Kimberly is passionate about providing client centered care, providing support for clients to live healthy, safe, and balanced lives. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family/Marital Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Dialectical (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Approach that helps to achieve the right mix of physical and mental wellbeing. Through healthy lifestyle habits it promotes a balanced state of emotional, physical, and mental health. It helps to strengthen relationships, increase confidence and life satisfaction and release stress and anxiety.

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Julie Berzon

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. 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 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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