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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Brigette Girardey

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
13 years of experience

Hello! My name is Brigette and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in East Bay, California. I have 10 years experience working with clients, providing therapeutic counseling services. I have worked with a diverse population of clients ranging from children, teens, adults, and elders. I provide services for individuals and families assisting with issues such as depression, isolation, anxiety, self esteem, trauma, loss, relationship issues, parenting issues, and more. I enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds and I value genuineness and collaboration with my clients. I provide a safe and supportive holding environment that is authentic and nonjudgmental in nature. I tailor my specific approach depending on client situation, needs, and goals for therapy. As well as draw from theories such as CBT, Solution Focused, Family Systems, and Client Centered modalities. Growth and change are encouraged through self reflection and finding practical solutions to problems. Making a change can feel overwhelming and scary, but if you are ready to take the first step and begin the road to a new way of life, I am here to help uplift and support you! I appreciate your courage and I look froward to hearing from you!

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Katherine Jones

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseADHD
3 years of experience

Hello, I am an LMFT who works to create a safe and validating space for clients to express the struggles they are enduring. I am interested in working in a strengths-based way guiding clients to find the answers they need to heal and move forward. I work to be personable and also offer DBT and CBT skills in hopes of creating strong basis for coping as we explore the issue at hand as well as patterns that know longer serve the client. With these resources, I work with those who are experiencing stress at work or in their relationships, are recovering from childhood or more recent trauma and I love to support those who feel like the odd one out. I am happy to work with clients from alternative communities or highly creative persons making their way through this world to the the beat of their own drum. Offering respectful acceptance and focus on the work at hand and allowing for the spirit that makes us each a little different and the world a little more colorful. Allow me to share my warmth, experience and hope, with a combination of deep listening and the solid evidence-based interventions to help you navigate the joys and suffering that each individual's journey offers.

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Dina Vineberg

Offering therapy in California
License: LPCC,MH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
6 years of experience

Hi There! I am a dual licensed professional counselor in both Florida and California State. My last twenty years of direct support positions working with a myriad of populations and ages has included counseling adolescents in high schools and foster care agencies, newly homeless, pregnant women in a non-profit agency (suffering from depression due to domestic violence), chronically mentally ill patients in hospital care, elderly clientele in an adult care facility, adults facing trauma and grief, and all ages on a crisis and text line. Through all these experiences I have been extremely humbled by so many people allowing me to enter their worlds. As a therapist, I utilize a person-centered approach using warmth, compassion, and and humor to understand each person I meet. I am especially attuned to those suffering loss or trauma, as I personally have lost two family members to depression. These losses have given me a special gift to help heal those around me and compel me to soften the anxiety, depression, or confusion of those who need it. I especially try to help people become more resilient in their lives since I have had to personally be this way and not to succumb to the hardships I have had to face. Rather than letting these hardships define me, I have wanted to connect with others and provide support for others facing life struggles. On a personal level, I am especially connected to nature and animals and have been an avid animal rescuer my entire life. I look forward to hearing YOUR story.

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Ann Legierski

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseAnger management
13 years of experience

Hello, my name is Ann Legierski and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters Degree in Social Work from University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from University of Phoenix. I have been in practice as a therapist for the past 13 years working with people of all ages, cultural backgrounds and ethnicities, including individuals, couples, families, and the LGBTQIA community. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and integrates several therapeutic modalities such as evidenced based treatment modalities that include: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing (MI), psychoeducation and more holistic approaches such as humanistic and existential psychotherapies. I meet each client from a client centered approach in order to establish a therapeutic relationship based on empathy, unconditional compassion and regard, respect, understanding, and acceptance and providing a safe, non-judgmental and nurturing therapeutic environment. Treatment plans are specifically designed to each clients own personal uniqueness and personal goals and objectives. Ultimately I try to teach each one of my clients to embrace change to help them understand that change is an ever present constant but that it is vitally important and necessary for factor for growth and to thrive. My role as therapist is to provide education, encouragement, insight, and feedback that will motivate and fortify their courage to stay the course to navigate their personal journey called life! “Everybody has a life purpose. Whatever is seeking you, that’s what you seek. That what’s calling you. That’s your life purpose.” -Sabine Bulhmann I look forward to working with you!

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Tiffany Irving

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

My name is Tiffany Irving, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California and Nevada. I earned my undergraduate degree from Bethany University where I participated in leadership and collegiate basketball. My Graduate degree was obtained from Santa Clara University in 2013 with a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology. Taking a person centered approach I am passionate about helping others find safe places to go with their pain and discover more about who they are and their unique journey with a nonjudgemental stance. In this current health crisis I meet each client where they are. Helping those in need cope with anxiety, depression, and stress currently impacting our communities. I strive to facilitate growth in those who want progress and are willing to put in the work. Staying focused on honesty as the best policy in a therapeutic relationship, we will work together to improve coping and move towards a fuller and more balanced life. I have many interests such as traveling, exercising, meeting new people, cooking and I am quite the foodie. I enjoy creative things such as photography, painting, art expression, and music.

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Angel Ouza

Offering therapy in California
License: Lmsw ,Lcsw
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
17 years of experience

Welcome and thank you for being brave, you are on your first step to recovery! I am honored to walk alongside your journey & grateful that you reached out for help. I am new to betterhelp ( I was on it for a few weeks in March 2022 then got over booked and had to pause and I’m back as of 2/10/2023 ! ) hence why I have 1 review, however I have been a social worker for 15 years and I have thousands of testimonials over the past few years alone. I believe, at one point or another, everyone needs some type of assistance. We are human and will no doubt encounter some type of challenge. At some point, we may deal with family/relationship issues, self-identity issues, grief, unforeseen circumstances, depression, trauma, career changes, self esteem concerns, anxiety, and/or trouble coping with the stressors of daily life. Embracing these challenges with the right support and consistent aligned action allows you to be on your way to healing and achieving wellness, one minute at a time! Together we can make things better… There is always a healthy solution to a problem you have! It will always be okay and if it’s not, it’s not the ending of your story. You got this, I believe in you! I use an integrative & holistic therapeutic approach that permits me to modify treatment to your individual needs. I also utilize humor, intuitive coaching, oracle card pulls, compassion, honesty and/or assign homework assignments as needed. Along with some other tools! My main jam is mindset, self esteem, career and transitions! I am also solution focused, however, I understand when to offer solutions and when to listen. Clients always tell me they feel safe in my space and that’s my goal. I’m here to help you. My aim as a clinician is to foster a supportive and safe space for you to explore your feelings, thoughts and challenges. My work will help you recognize the power within you & source( whatever you believe in is totally okay in my world, I respect all) and trusting that it all works out the way it should! This would work especially good if you want a safe space to share your feelings and looking for mentorship, support and tips to help you shift your perspective to get you to where you desire. I also have extensive travel experience, as I solo travel and as of 2023, I have been to 35 plus countries and 26 plus states in the USA, hence you may always feel free to ask me for tips in this area! I have also faced my own life challenges, moved across the country to my dream states and more, which I believe has taught me to have more compassion and an open mind. One of my biggest strengths that helps foster a safe space for my clients, is my unconditional acceptance & operating from an unapologetic authentic framework, whilst helping them get to the level they desire. I aspire to work collaboratively with you to progress and reach your goals and on the way to living your dream life! In my opinion, counseling is successful when you have interest in your well-being and are actively committed to improvements in and out of sessions. Most importantly, trust the process of therapy & your healing journey. Trust and believe that it all adds up and it will work the way it should! P.S. always remember, there is always a healthy solution to a problem you have! It will always be okay and if it’s not, it’s not the ending of your story. You got this, I believe in you! P.P.S. I especially love working with women who are empaths and/or hsp( highly sensitive persons) looking for support, wisdom and tips to help them during their transition periods, whether it is divorce, new career, education, self esteem concerns, relationships, etc! Looking forward to working with you , it is my honor to walk alongside you. **Note: I do voice only sessions . ** Talk soon! Best regards, Angel

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Kelly Smith

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW-R
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
26 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker licensed in NY with over twenty five years of experience working as a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor. I have worked with people with a wide range of situations and circumstances including but not limited to depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, parenting, OCD, ADHD, and LGBTQ+ related challenges . I have also helped many individuals who have experienced trauma . My therapy style is warm, interactive and engaging. I believe feeling validated is key in a persons life as well as being treated with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and family systems modalities. I will tailor our dialogue and professional partnership to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage 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 here to support you on your journey of empowerment. I look forward to working with you!

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Margaret "Maggie" Reid

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Hi, I’m Maggie! I’m an Expressive Arts Therapist. I work in the same way a typical therapist would work, exploring relationships, expressing emotions, working on social skills, discovering healthy coping skills, really any roadblock to being your very best self.  But in my practice, I also use the arts in our therapeutic journey.  This can include music, visual art, movement, magic, writing, and beyond.  My practice is truly client-centered.  Everyone has their own unique situation, and my goal is to tailor our work to your very personal needs.

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Kyong Choi

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Sheretta 'Sheretha' Lee

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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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Corinne Lasalle

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping 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, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Kristen Silva

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

I am licensed in California and have had 6 years of professional work experience between being a grad student, AMFT, and LMFT. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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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Holly Doolittle

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
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, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Barbara Spear

Offering therapy in California
Trauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepressionCoping 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 trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & depression and anxiety/PTSD. I gained experiences even more when I was made supervisor of a foster family agency for troubled teens with mental health issues . I worked on the other side when I was placed in charge of the juvenile detention with mental health. I spent time on the Crisis Ward supervising staff and clients to insure that all necessary steps were taken to prevent suicides. I went to Texas from California to assist Katrina evacuees for a month and spent 3 years. 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 takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Please go and pick a time slot that works for you and I will be seeing you soon. Barbara

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Nadia Grissom

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteem
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

How can therapists in California support you?

Therapists in California 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 California, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for licensed professionals in California 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 does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why are many residents in the state of California working 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 in California, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

Mental health counselors in California support clients with varying issues, which can include:

  • 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

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. 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 commonly asked questions can be found 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.

How do I know if I should get a therapist?

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 in California can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does insurance cover 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 safe?

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.

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