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.

This is Judy Thompson's avatar and link to their profile

Judy Thompson

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflicts
12 years of experience

My name is Judy Thompson. I have been a licensed marriage and family therapist since 2015. My communication style is supportive and educational. My approaches include Family Systems (good for understanding and improving boundaries, communication, and relationship dynamics); Motivational Interviewing (good for addressing 'addictions', codependency, and persistent compulsive behaviors); and 12-Step Recovery approach (helpful in learning to apply spiritual/biblical principles to find greater peace in one's self and in one's relationships). I offer 30 - 45 minute PHONE sessions (only). Subscribers typically schedule sessions once a week, but are welcome to schedule more frequently.

This is Connie Won's avatar and link to their profile

Connie Won

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
10 years of experience

Hello, and welcome to BetterHelp! My approach to therapy is psychodynamic, with a particular interest in relationships/codependency, childhood trauma, attachment issues, and loss/grief. I would be honored to hear your story and be a part of your journey.

This is Hai Nguyen's avatar and link to their profile

Hai Nguyen

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT,Substance Abuse Certification
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteem
15 years of experience

I am honored to have the opportunity to meet you and explore areas of the heart, mind, and soul with you. I have fallen in love with studying "love" since a young age. It occurred to me that life gives us many paradoxes/contradictions such as: "Go through pain in order to heal". Since my awareness opened up to the vast internal world of the human mind, I strive to find the answer. In the combination of my teaching career (online Professor - Psychology, health/human services/Philosophy) and psychotherapy, I was given the gift of a special journey in revealing the invisible components in life - especially our internal world. I have personal and professional experience in diverse areas (gangs, addiction, violence, mood disorders, relationship dynamics, family connection, and many areas within the interpersonal/intrapersonal realm). In addition, I hold a special awareness for cultural sensitivity as well, and the assimilation process onto areas of adaptation and acculturation. I began viewing life with analytical, philosophical, and emotional perception at an early age as life became difficult since I could remember. When I had finally turned my life around and attended college, I was inspired by many individuals. From this, I earned a position with my previous professor as his T.A in stress management. From there, I moved onto graduate school after attaining my Psychology degree. During my Marriage and Family therapy program, I continued to teach. The last year of my studies I was honored to work as an intern at non-profit agency where I delivered therapeutic services to a vast array of different populations: Onsite therapist for a middle school and high school (pre-teens and teens). I also worked with couple's, anger management, domestic violence, family/individual therapy at the main facility. I was then given the chance to work as an online professor at Ashford University after completing my Master's degree, where I continued to do so until this day. After graduation I moved onto working with children with Autism Spectrum disorder (minority population) for over a year. Finally, I traveled into the work on dual diagnosis/addiction, where I started as a part-time therapist and moved towards becoming the primary therapist, and then the clinical director for the whole facility. From my journey, I have been given the privilege to uphold a vast array of experiences, even to the extent of online gaming addiction. My main focus now lies in areas of emotional connection (relationships - family, couples', and even with yourself), grief/loss, mood disorders, addiction, and education.

This is Susan Garner's avatar and link to their profile

Susan Garner

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
20 years of experience

I bring many years of clinical experience, my personal life experiences, and professional training to my work with clients. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 18 years, working with clients from 17-70+ years of age, including individuals, families, couples (including same sex couples), and those from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The common denominator in my work with every client is the depth of my commitment to their healing and personal growth. Together we will define your objectives and goals. The kinds of problems that each individual brings into therapy are often complicated and not usually neatly categorized. Human beings are complex and though many areas of functioning may be impacted, the source of these often result from a core emotional or psychological injury, or a traumatic event. Sometimes dysfunctional family of origin dynamics have adversely impacted our ability to have healthy, high functioning relationships and we need to learn new skills. For some, therapy can help to improve performance with personal goals. Whatever it is that you are seeking help with, it is well understood that the first step toward changing anything is in identifying the problem. Whatever your objectives my be (even when these are not clearly identified or understood), I am confident that I can help you gain clarity and work towards achieving whatever your goals may be. Therapy has been described as the "talking" cure and sometimes the very act of talking or sharing of experience and feelings with an experienced professional can help...help in the moment to not feel so alone or crazy, and in the long run, to have the clarity, confidence and self-esteem to create a life by design. Studies have shown that there are two important factors in determining the success of therapy: 1) the client's perception of the therapists skills and knowledge and 2) the relationship, or therapeutic alliance, between therapist and client. I offer you my respect, compassion and acceptance. I have studied a variety therapy disciplines and blend traditions from the East (mindfulness, insight-oriented therapy) and West (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-CBT), somatic body-mind centered, and psychodynamic approaches to effectively address individual needs and differences. I have successfully worked with: relationships, marital problems, self-esteem, communication skills, healthy boundaries, self-esteem and self-confidence, mood disorders, co-dependency, unresolved traumas, anxiety, changing counter-productive patterns, life transitions including loss of loved ones, divorce, blended families.

This is Saundra Green's avatar and link to their profile

Saundra Green

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Family conflictsIntimacy-related issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
16 years of experience

I am a Marriage and Family therapist (MFT) licensed in California with over 16 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and more recently integrating life coaching. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges. An area that I have come to also specialize in is working with singles who have grown very discouraged with online dating apps and who are navigating the difficulties of social media in relationships. I really enjoy this area so if that is an issue for you please don't hesitate to reach out. I am very proud of the book that I wrote early on in the pandemic. If you are feeling stuck, and lacking clarity, you can find my best selling book as a resource. Clarity, 7 Steps From Getting Unstuck to Taking Action. USA Marketplace https://www.amazon.com/dp/B093YHFZJC My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating each with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan 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 and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

This is Megan Egner's avatar and link to their profile

Megan Egner

Offering therapy in California
Parenting issuesDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Washington with 10 years of professional work experience. 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 Marisol Elizarraras's avatar and link to their profile

Marisol Elizarraras

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
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, 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.

This is Macarena Santelices's avatar and link to their profile

Macarena Santelices

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

Disclaimer: I do not do Trauma therapy, please seek a different therapist if you are wanting to do some trauma work :) I am licensed in California and Maryland with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. I am here to support you and meet you where you are so we can work together to identify and meet your goals. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Geoffrey Ibeabuchi's avatar and link to their profile

Geoffrey Ibeabuchi

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesAnger managementBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, anger management, bipolar disorder, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Lynn Novatt's avatar and link to their profile

Lynn Novatt

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
17 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a professional Life and Leadership Coach, based in Los Angeles. With 17 years of experience as both a therapist and a coach, I offer an unparalleled blend of knowledge, tools and insights. Clients reflect to me my acute listening skills, empathetic approach and calm demeanor. My intention is to serve you in feeling deeply seen, completely safe, and fully supported as you have made the courageous decision to seek therapy. I see our time together as a sacred space for your healing, and the work we do together can be a springboard for your growth. In addition to my Marriage and Family Therapist license, I have a Master’s Degree in Spiritual Psychology from the University of Santa Monica. I have done my own deep therapeutic work which allows me to meet my clients where they are; no gimmicks, just deep, authentic listening, so that I can reflect back what I see and hear. My style and approach is one of encouragement, compassion, and optimism, as well as honest feedback. I strive to create a safe space where my clients can relax their body and their mind (their thinking,) allowing them to see possibility for themselves. Through this new lens, clients can gain clarity, get creative and take action in their lives. My therapeutic approach involves Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, Learned Optimism, Mindfulness, Positive Psychology and Gestalt. If my clients agree to do homework/grow-work, I utilize question prompts, worksheets, audios, videos, articles and books. I acknowledge you for taking the first step in your growth and empowerment by signing up for BetterHelp. And, I also know that this is a process; the work of personal growth and development is not for the faint of heart. And, here you are, so good for you! Keep going!

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.
Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist