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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Claudia Boles

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
20 years of experience

Thank you for being here and for visiting my profile. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of California. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from the University of Southern California where I also completed my undergraduate studies in social sciences and Spanish language. I have 20 years of experience in hospitals/healthcare and mental health settings. I'm particularly knowledgeable about assisting those who struggle with challenging health conditions and illness, grief and loss, bereavement, trauma, abuse, depression and anxiety. One special interest of mine is supporting those who have lost loved ones to suicide. I enjoy working with clients from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. I incorporate a holistic, integrative approach meaning that I draw from multiple modalities including cognitive behavioral, trauma-informed and strengths-based. I also incorporate mindfulness and motivational interviewing techniques into my practice. From my viewpoint as a clinician, human functioning and behavior stem from many life experiences and aspects of our lives: psychological, cognitive, biological/physical/medical, genetic, developmental, familial, social, educational/employment/career, spiritual, cultural and societal. It's important that we search for optimal ways together to maximize individual adaptive coping skills, to broaden insight, and to make positive, practical steps towards change. In addition to my employment, I've volunteered for several community organizations and non-profits that support health, mental health and/or education. One of my favorite volunteer positions has been serving as a Crisis Counselor for Crisis Text Line. I also have great appreciation for nature and the arts. My colleagues describe me as compassionate, empathetic and invested in my clients' well-being. I'm dedicated to making the most of any therapeutic experience.

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Kristy Hamilton

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

My name is Kristy Hamilton, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California, having also worked professionally in Colorado. I work as a Medical/Hospice Social Worker, and have a small private practice called Malibu Walk and Talk Therapy. I have also worked in a dual-diagnosis facility as a Program Manager and therapist, and Clinic as their Behavioral Health Provider. My experience working with individuals and families has covered a wide range of concerns related to stress, mood, parenting, family conflict, moves and life transitions, obsessions and compulsions, addictions, organizational issues, hoarding, workplace issues, care-giver challenges, and aging issues. I grew up and attended a variety of churches over the years as we have moved and spent time abroad, and find that these experiences have enabled me to grow and love the uniqueness of individuals and the place one's past and environment have on the present. The connection between therapist and client is one of the biggest factors for success, and so I will listen to best understand your current situation and concerns. My counseling style is collaborative and interactive, respectful, warm, and practical. I draw from cognitive-behavioral, client and solution-focused, motivational, attachment-based, existential, and dialectical behavior therapies. I focus primarily on present circumstances and work collaboratively to better understand one's past and environment, and to adjust unproductive patterns of thinking and behaving as you move forward. My license allows me to provide professional counseling in California and Colorado, and am available via phone, live chat, or video for counseling sessions almost every day of the week since my schedule is flexible. The life experience I have as a parent and professional may be very helpful for you as you courageously reach out during this time. I want you to get the short or long-term support and counsel best suited for you and your present situation.

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Dr. Diane O'Brien

Offering therapy in California
License: PhD,LPC, LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

Do you often find yourself struggling to sort out your thoughts and feelings about events in your life? Have there been times in your life when you have wondered if you have made the right choices or if there are other possibilities for you? We have all experienced life changing experiences that have shaped us into the people we are today. Sometimes, a listening ear is all we need. Other times, more in-depth exploration of thoughts and feelings is needed before you can feel better. Whichever situation fits for you, I am here to help. I have been in practice for over 20 years and have had experience working with a diverse group of individuals, couples, and families. Together, we have explored trauma events and their impact on individuals and families, family relationships, couples’ issues, and depression, anxiety, infidelity, spiritual dilemmas, and other experiences that have an effect on day-to-day living. My experience extends to adults of all ages, including an older population and caregivers. I am open to working with couples who are experiencing issues, particularly in the area of communication. Working with individuals who are in the early stages of dementia or Alzheimer's Disease are a new and interesting population for me. For me, counseling is a passion. Being a counselor is a calling, it encompasses me as a person and as a professional. It is my hope that you will contact me for counseling so that I can be your companion on your journey to a more peaceful and satisfying future.

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Renee Lewis

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
42 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and 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!

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Jerylyn Bohlender

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

I am licensed in California and Tennessee with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & trauma and abuse. 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. 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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Rafia Zaidi

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am a social worker licensed in California with several years of experience working as a school social worker. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, behavioral problems, etc. My work primarily has been with adolescents and children. My therapy style is warm, interactive, and person-focused. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and solution focused aspects. I also like to place an emphasis on being culturally aware and sensitive. I, too, am human just like you - so please do not be nervous or feel like I will judge. :) I am here to support you and empower you. I look forward to working with you and supporting you on this journey of life. :)

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Jennifer Gault

Offering therapy in California
Stress, Anxiety
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, intimacy related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 proud of you for getting started!

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Meredith Craig

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
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, 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. 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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Gloria Estrada

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
6 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, anger management, depression, & coping with life changes. 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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Judith 'Judi' Shaffer

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

I am licensed in California and Massachusetts with 29 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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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Le Henry Solomon

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficulties
22 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy related issues, parenting issues, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Sarah Kimmons

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma 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 and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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!

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Eladia Beltran

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesAnger managementCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & anger management. 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.

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Jeanette Garza

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 28 years of professional work experience in the area of perinatal mental health. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. And processing birth trauma. 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!

This is Laura Rochelle's avatar and link to their profile

Laura Rochelle

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
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, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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