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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Mateus Porter

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Hello, my name is Mateus Porter, MA, LMFT. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I work in a non-profit setting as well as enjoying my private practice where I see a variety of clients ranging in age and struggling with depression, anxiety, school/work stress, self-esteem issues, life transitions, relationship issues, and parenting concerns. My specialty is working with student-athletes struggling with a variety of issues, but you definitely do not have to be an athlete to see me! Therapy can vary depending on the individual therapist that you work with. My style is a strength-based eclectic approach that combines elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Mindfulness, and Internal Family Systems. I love being able to meet my clients where they’re at and go at their pace while applying the therapeutic approach that best fits their specific needs. Life can be hard and it takes courage to reach out for help. You’re taking the first step right now which is amazing! It would be an honor to be by your side while we figure things out and make life a little better for you.

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Tatiana Stewart

Offering therapy in California
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
14 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 14 years of post master level experience, and 17 years of Mental Health and behavioral Counseling with children, couples and family units. I am a passionate advocate and help clients gain access to resources while confronting their personal issues, such as mental illness, addiction, and abuse. “I SEE YOU, DO YOU SEE ME?” - This is my personal reference of engagement to begin the process in helping you by actively listening in a non-judgmental manner, and by being open to your feedback in each session to promote a safe place for us to identify and work through areas of direction for your healing. In building a therapeutic relationship between you and myself is to begin with a warm welcome and thank you to you by allowing this journey of engagement between us. All relationships take risks and I am honored to provide a space for open dialogue between us. I combine many therapeutic modalities to develop your treatment plan by using a strengths-based approach to empower goals tailored to your needs and areas of concern. I use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, which is an evidenced-based psychotherapy designed to help people with emotional dyregulation to treat mood disorders, suicidal ideation, and for change in behavioral patterns such as self-harm and substance abuse. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which is a psycho-social intervention that aims to improve your mental health by focusing on challenging and changing unhelpful cognitive distortion and behaviors, improving emotional regulation, and the development of personal coping strategies that target solving current problems. I use Narrative Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing which is a form of psychotherapy that seeks to help people identify their values and skills and knowledge they have to live these values, so they can effectively confront the problems they face in a safe manner. This may also provide space to reflect on historical trauma and family values as it relates to the individual and their goals. My goal is to establish a connection, whereby both the you and I will partner, addressing that each person is an individual and worthy of a safe space to heal.

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Victoria Serratos

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
12 years of experience

HI, I'm Victoria Serratos, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I'm thrilled to be a part of this journey towards mental well-being. With a heart for healing and a passion for understanding, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Having completed my Master of Social Work from USC School of Social Work and my bachelor's degree in Deaf Studies from CSUN, I've honed my skills in creating meaningful connections across languages and cultures. As a bilingual therapist in both Spanish and English, I strive to provide a safe and inclusive space for individuals of all walks of life. My approach to therapy is as unique as the people I work with. Tailoring my methods to your individual needs, I employ an eclectic approach that draws from a variety of therapeutic techniques. Whether you're a teenager navigating the complexities of growing up, a young adult stepping into the world, or someone seeking guidance in their senior years, my door is open to you. I welcome clients of all genders and identities and proudly stand as an ally for the LGBTQIA community. Specializing in Trauma, I've worked extensively with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, gang violence, and bullying, offering a supportive hand on the path to healing. Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Depression, and even the challenges of Postpartum life are areas where I can provide guidance and understanding. Loss, transitions, relationships, stress – life's trials come in many forms. With over a decade of experience working in diverse settings, I bring both wisdom and empathy to the table. From crisis management to long-term solutions, my aim is to empower you. I'm also an author of in the Amazon bestseller, "Survivors Diary: The Day She Left Vol 2." This project speaks to the strength of the human spirit and the resilience that lies within us all. If you'd like to learn more about my book you can find me at, victoriaserratos.com My training and specialties encompass a range of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-focused CBT, and Motivational Interviewing. I've have certifications/training in areas such as Domestic Violence, Suicide Intervention, and Spiritual Counseling. Remember, you're not alone on this path. Together, we can navigate life's challenges and work towards a brighter, more empowered future. Trainings & Specialties: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) EMDR Trauma focused CBT Seeking Safety Motivational Interviewing Domestic Violence Applied Suicide Interventions Skills (ASIST). Spiritual Counseling

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Tony Thompson

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I have worked for the last 10 years in child welfare services. Currently, I am a licensed clinical social worker and a supervisor for children services. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, substance abuse, parenting issues, trauma, adoption and Foster Care issues, general life concerns and adjustments, domestic violence and many others. I have worked closely with families, teenagers, emancipated youth and children of all walks of life and backgrounds. My counseling style is pretty laid back. I've been described as supportive, caring and compassionate, with a pretty good sense of humor. Usually, I like to focus on identifying your strengths, what has been working well and helping you to maximize those strengths to help overcome your obstacles. I'm here to help you start through the things that are difficult right now and offer you a safe place to be open and honest without fear of judgment. You have taken the first and most important step by reaching out for help. My counseling style is warm, and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with compassion, respect, honesty and I don't believe in judgment, shame or stigmatizing labels. My belief in counseling is that everyone deserves an opportunity for healing, hope and self-confidence. My clinical approach is client centered and combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, solution focused and the recognition of trauma and how it impacts our well-being. I'm also oriented in strength-based practices and other modalities as needed for the purposes of treatment. My goal is to assist and work with individuals to achieve their fullest potential. Seeking counseling can be fearful and overwhelming but I want to encourage you to continue the journey to seek help and regain hope and control over your life. My goal for every client is to gain new perspectives and to develop the skills necessary to live meaningful lives.

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Mayra Castro

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

Welcome to Better Help. I am pleased you are visiting this site and taking the first step to become the best you. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and I have over ten years of experience working with children, adults, and families. I have been providing individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and group therapy for over six years. I specialize in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, self-esteem issues, communication, relationships issues, and parenting issues. I use a client centered approach and provide a judgement free zone. I also use a strength-based approach which helps you work towards meeting your treatment goals. My primary approaches include Trauma Informed Practice, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Didactical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I look forward to joining you in your journey.

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Jeffrey Stambook

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Relationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I enjoy working with a diverse set of clients. Licensed in California since 2006 I have had the pleasure of sitting down to talk with a great number of individuals who were struggling with a variety of concerns. My work in mental health began in 1998 in a small farming community just outside of Bakersfield, CA. I was fortunate enough to be hired by a community health clinic to provide mental health case management for children and families. It was there that I realized my desire to help others and found my motivation to continuing me education and training. I went on to work at a variety of jobs including a mental hospital for a period of time so that I would have the skills necessary to serve clients in private practice. I began seeing clients in my own office shortly after getting licensed. I believe that one of the very best things that I can offer my clients is the gift of being heard. I will provide a safe space where clients can share their greatest challenges and know that I am listening. I will not judge them but will do my very best to encourage them and help them find solutions to their problems. I promise to treat every client with the highest level of respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I tend to approach my work from a cognitive-behavioral perspective. My work with individuals often involves some effort to change old habits including negative thinking. Marriage counseling has always been a significant part of my work. Those who do marriage well, take time to know what is going on with one another and make time to enjoy each other. I have had training in the methods of Drs. John and Julie Gottman and use their material with most of the couples that I see. You do not need to be “crazy” or be in significant distress to seek counseling. Sometimes our beliefs or expectations of ourselves or of counseling result in a delay in seeking help until situations become serious, or we are already in crisis. Many people tell us that they wish they had come to counseling sooner. Save yourself some avoidable distress and seek counseling earlier rather than later.

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Aldemar Martinez

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW,CCTP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
30 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), with 25 years of experience in the field of mental health. I also have a degree in Psychology, with I believe compliments my clinical and social work skills to formulate a more complete and wholistic approach to therapy. Additionally I am a Certified Trauma Professional, and use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as my primary theoretical approach to trauma. I believe that each individual brings into his/her therapy experience a unique set of skills, which I encourage to identify through Narrative Therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is another form of psychological treatment, which I often use with my clients to identify maladaptive behavioral patterns, and replace them with healthy habits to achieve a sense of healing. Finally I believe in the human connection., which is the power to positively influence one another. I welcome you and commend you for taking charge of your life through therapy!

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Angelique (Gigi) Tsontos

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
15 years of experience

I am Gigi, a licensed in California and Kansas with 14 years of professional work experience. My focus helping clients with work, professional development, 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. Taking the first step to seek a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Misty Perry

Offering therapy in California
Stress, Anxiety
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. 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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Sylvia Reed-Drake

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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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Tiffiny Turner

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCompassion fatigue
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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 applaud you for taking the first step towards the life you want!! I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Natalie Cheetham

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

Natalie Cheetham, LCSW, is passionate about grief work. She holds a masters degree and clinical license in social work, and specializes in mindfulness grief therapy and grief mental health. Her belief is that grief reveals an authentic space to learn and heal. Natalie's warm approach provides a safe space to explore the emotions related to grief & loss, new and chronic health conditions, animal loss and life change events.

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Tiffani Walton

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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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Jamie Hawks

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
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, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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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Nanette Coleman

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Sometimes people need a little help in life to deal with stress, anxiety, depression, and/or behavioral or physical challenges. As life can sometimes knock you down, fate has led you to me to help you navigate your specific challenges. As a California licensed therapist, I have assisted clients in managing their stress and anxiety, getting past their depression, and making behavior changes so that they can regain a sense of control. I also have experience in helping with relationship issues, including but not limited to family, significant others and/or work-related. Coping with grief & loss, motivation, self-esteem/confidence, and disability challenges are just a few areas of my extensive working knowledge. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and will always encourage free expression. Most of my clients are healthy, successful people who may simply be a bit stuck and want the support of their own personal therapist/coach to work around their challenges; some just need coping skills. As a therapist, I help clients cope with mental, emotional, and physical challenges, create specific therapies and exercises, and develop plans for ongoing care. As a certified life coach, I help people move forward and set personal and/or professional goals to assist them in achieving the life they really want. Together, we can find ways to work around your challenges, whether they be mental, behavioral, or physical. I have an extensive background in the medical/psychological field and have personally dealt with just about every life obstacle you can imagine. It takes more than just book knowledge - it takes experience to effectively assist others. I will tailor your treatment plan to meet your unique and specific challenges. You've already taken the first step by being here; that took courage, and I am incredibly proud of you for getting started. Now, take my hand; I want to help.

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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