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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Brianne Sanchez

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT ,MS
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

I am a Marraige and Family Therapiist licensed in California with over 10 years of experience working with a variety of backgrounds. The variety of people, careers, and experience has helped me develop clinical skills which I use in my current practice. I have experience with all ages from children to adults, to those in end of life situations (palliative and hospice care). I have experience working with many socioeconomic status, race, culture, religions, and beliefs. I have a great deal of experience working with foster youth, adopted families, blended families, Christians, cancer patients and palliative care. I have experinece in substance abuse as well as law enforcement matters. I have been doing counseling for the last 3 years formally. However, I have been a social worker since 2004, graduate level since 2008. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, cancer related issues, grief and loss, and forgiveness. I have helped many families and individuals. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Jennifer Gildner

Offering therapy in California
License: Ph.D.,CMPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefSelf esteemDepression
19 years of experience

Hi there! Thanks for taking a look at my services. I am licensed to meet with people in Washington and California. I am scheduled for video/phone sessions Monday through Wednesday, check messages each weekday, and I am not scheduled to meet or check messages at weekends. If this schedule works for you, I hope you'll continue reading to get an idea about how I work with clients. Empowerment occurs when we transform intention to action. I have a collaborative yet challenging approach in my work with individual clients. Your mind is where intention moves toward action. I see it as my job to help you find answers that are already within you from a strengths-based approach. Because we are working together collaboratively, you have the freedom to express what you need from psychotherapy and I will want to spend time exploring how your cultural background impacts your presenting concerns. You're also in therapy for change and that's where my ability to challenge you comes in. I can provide a positive relationship in which you can learn about yourself and grow. Further, mindfulness is a large part of how I approach our work together, particularly as you are working toward new thoughts and behaviors with the goal of improving your life in general. If all this sounds like what you're looking for, I look forward to hearing from you!

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Heather Salazar

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
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, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Julia Szpakiewicz

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseEating disordersCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California, New Jersey and Texas with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & eating disorders. 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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Rachelle Salerno

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

I am licensed in California with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Alexandra Gulbis

Offering therapy in California
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I am a non-judgmental and trauma-informed psychotherapist. I offer a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking healing, growth, and transformation. My practice incorporates an existential lens, recognizing the importance of exploring life's fundamental questions, meaning, and purpose. I believe in embracing existence and empowering individuals to discover their authentic selves, navigate existential challenges, and cultivate a sense of fulfillment and wholeness.

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Sarah Barber

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

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Evie Harris-Fitzsimons's avatar and link to their profile

Evie Harris-Fitzsimons

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
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, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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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Quinesha Gatlin

Offering therapy in California
GriefIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief, loss, motivation, ambivalence & coping with life changes. 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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Cailyn Hymer-Costa

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsEating disordersParenting issuesDepression
5 years of experience

Thank you for making yourself a priority, for choosing to accept the help and guidance through your therapeutic journey. Hello, I am a Licensed Clinic Social Worker in the state of California. My approach to therapy is grounded in compassion, empathy, and authenticity as a clinician. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their emotions with curiosity, build resilience, and find effective methods of stress reduction to manage life's hurdles now and in the future. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals who struggle with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as those navigating the complexities of substance use disorders. I understand how these issues can intertwine and impact daily life, and I am deeply committed to providing the support and tools necessary for healing and growth. I am deeply passionate about supporting individuals through the unique emotional and psychological challenges of pregnancy, the postpartum period, and early parenthood. My practice focuses on helping clients navigate the complexities of adjusting to new motherhood, managing the waves of the pregnancy journey and overcoming the profound hurdles that can arise during the postpartum phase. I personally understand the journey to parenthood and how this can be filled with joy and anticipation as well as fear, overwhelm and isolation at times. Whether you are experiencing prenatal anxiety, postpartum depression, or struggling with the overwhelming changes in identity as you emerge to the Mother role~ I offer a loving, nurturing and supportive space to let you feel and process your journey in motherhood.

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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