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.

Kasimu-Richard Harley
I am an American with African roots who grew up in Pennsylvania. My journey to become a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist in California is a composite of all the life experiences that I have had privilege of having. I am a husband, father, brother, uncle, and son who has served in the United States Marine Corps (USMC) during the Vietnam Era. I am a student of life and the opportunities it provides individuals to rise above adversity and trauma. For more than two decades I have helped individuals and groups address the intrinsic social and emotional barriers that hinder their ability to thrive. A core belief that I have is we are all born, ‘Awesome’ and oftentimes we encounter pivotal events in our lives that cause our personal and emotional growth to become stunted. I served as a mental health therapist in both outpatient and residential treatment facilities serving adolescents and adults with substance use and mental wellness issues. My work in educational settings focused on removing socio-emotional barriers that impeded student learning. In addition, I provided stress reduction and work-balance coaching to teachers and administrators. The treatment approach that I utilized is systemic and eclectic. Using cognitive therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness practices I can help individuals work through depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and loss, etc. Let us work together to empower you to “Walk in Your Awesomeness”.

Andrea Watson
Hello, let me introduce myself. I have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years. I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2018, and I have licenses in Tennessee and California. My therapy style would be described as warm, with acceptance and understanding. Treating all clients with the respect, compassion, empathy, and positive regard. Incorporating a clients life experiences, personal beliefs and values, and their perspective into treatment and assisting in building insight and skills to handle any concern or opportunity. My theoretical orientation would be described as eclectic (leaning on Cognitive behavioral therapy, but also incorporating solution focused therapy, psychodynamic, narrative, existential, structural family therapy, to name a few.) because I believe that there are benefits from having the ability to offer different techniques that work for my client’s needs. I have worked with clients with a wide range of individual concerns and opportunities. Which I feel make me uniquely suited to help with depression, anxiety, dual diagnosis, addictions, relationship and parenting concerns, life, and career transitions. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse move forward in their lives by reshaping certain patterns of interaction into healthier ones. I look forward to working with you!

Colter Diehl
I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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.

John Rego
I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Dr. Andrew Mendonsa
Your Authentic Self, Your Strongest Self: Therapy Tailored in a Safe, Supportive Space Hello! I'm Dr. Andrew Mendonsa, a clinical psychologist and therapist with 20+ years of experience helping folks like you navigate life's complexities and embrace their true potential and authentic self. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, those struggling with problematic sexual behavior, kink/alt lifestyle/polyamory-focused issues, and anyone seeking a male therapist's perspective. My journey through the worlds of mental health and addiction – from community mental health and marginalized groups, to the criminal justice system, to high wealth clients and corporate boardrooms – has equipped me with a deep understanding of the challenges clients, especially men and those from specialized populations, face today. I've helped countless individuals overcome shame, guilt, depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and the unique pressures of modern life. As an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, I offer a safe and judgment-free space to explore your identity, gender, relationships, sexual expression, and sexuality. Whether you're questioning, coming out, or navigating the unique stressors of the LGBTQIA+, kink, alt-pop, or straight communities, I'm here to support you on your journey! For those grappling with problematic sexual behavior that is causing issues with your work, relationships, finance, or other areas, I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to recovery. I will not tell you to stop what you are doing or else, instead we will identify what is motivating your behavior and desire to change. Knowing these, we can then develop a tailored treatment plan and achievable goals. Together, we'll address the underlying issues, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and rebuild a fulfilling life free from shame, guilt, and compulsive behaviors. My extensive background working with high-achieving individuals in business and academia makes me uniquely equipped to understand the pressures of professional life. If you're struggling with work-related stress, burnout, or career transitions, I can offer practical strategies for success and well-being. I have owned, sold, and managed companies and worked in high levels within the public sector. My approach to therapy is collaborative, goal-oriented, and results-driven. I believe therapy should be a catalyst for change, not a lifelong commitment. Think of it like a tune-up for your mind – we'll get you back on track and running smoothly. You wouldn't leave your car in the shop forever, would you? So why force yourself into a lifetime of therapy? I invite you to visit my website, www.AndrewMendonsa.com, to learn more about me and my approach. Let's work together to build a life that is authentic, fulfilling, and true to you.

Claudia Santiago
I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, 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!

Freddie Williams
I'm an Arizona and California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 12 years of professional work experience. Also, I'm a Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor, specializing in addictions. I AM EXPERIENCED IN HELPING MALE ADULTS ONLY (18 -75 YEARS OLD) who are struggling with Substance Abuse and Co-Occurring Disorders, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorder and Anger Management. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My approach includes highly effective Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical behavioral (DBT), and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). With my extensive experience and knowledge, I am confident in my ability to help you overcome your challenges and achieve your goals. 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.

Ana-Lisa Bartelt
*Please note my availability below Aloha! My name is Ana-Lisa from Hawaii and California. I am a licensed mental health therapist in California and Utah with over 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression symptoms, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open, collaborative, 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. I'm passionate about the work I do and ways I can make a difference! Right now I'm working abroad (Europe) so my hours of availability for California (and West Coast clients) are 12am to 8am, though I do have the ability to send messages throughout the day.. The session availability changes depending on your state and country for those outside of the US. If this works for you I would love to connect!

Elizabeth Shartle
I am a licensed clinical counselor in Ohio, and I am also licensed in California. For over fifteen years, I have worked with adults with addiction, anxiety, grief and depression. Many of my clients have experienced past trauma, family conflicts, and issues with motivation and self-esteem. My vision of counseling is to come along side the person who is hurting to offer understanding and encouragement as you share your story so that together we can figure out a plan for moving forward. My counseling techniques emphasize behavioral strategies and interpersonal skills, while drawing on the tenets of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT emphasizes living and engaging in life according to your values so that you make intentional choices and feel better with the choices you make. My overall approach is person-centered, and our interaction will always be underscored by respect and genuine care. We want our lives to matter, and we want to be important to those we love. Being seen and heard is crucial, and sometimes, just feeling understood for a moment is priceless. I am very grateful to have the opportunity to work with you here in this forum!

Roberta Reid
I am licensed in California with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression. My expertise is within the drug and alcohol field. 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!
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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
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.
Popular cities in California
- Los Angeles, CA
- San Diego, CA
- San Jose, CA
- San Francisco, CA
- Fresno, CA
- Sacramento, CA
- Long Beach, CA
- Oakland, CA
- Bakersfield, CA
- Anaheim, CA
- Santa Ana, CA
- Riverside, CA
Find your state
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming