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 Maria Lozano's avatar and link to their profile

Maria Lozano

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW,CLE,RYT-200
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been dedicated to providing therapy for the past 8 years, with a total of 20 years of experience in the field of mental health and social services. In my time, I have been able to combine my passion for mental health and reproductive health justice to include post partum doula as a dual role to my title. I have worked with individuals address trauma, family dynamic difficulties, and regaining empowerment to reach their optimum goals. In my dual role as mental health clinician and post partum doula I help new parents and mujeres navigate an ocean of emotions while living through transitions and changes in their lives by holding space for words, breath, and sips of tea as they regain empowerment to reconnect to their innate power. Folks I have worked with have addressed and managed with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, immigration and family separation, grief, Perinatal (pre or post natal) mood disorders, and domestic violence. I believe there is strength in intersectionality which has empowered my approach integrating holistic tools (yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and herbs) with my training and experience with somatic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused, and motiviational interviewing. I am warm, compassionate, empathetic, and welcome humor as sweet medicine when the time is right. I believe that tears are medicine releasing from our inner most emotions to wash away the strains we have carried. It would be my honor to support this journey of healing and reclamation of your emotional wellness you have chosen for yourself.

This is Dr. Diane O'Brien's avatar and link to their profile

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.

This is Cheryl Wharton's avatar and link to their profile

Cheryl Wharton

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepression
30 years of experience

I have had a passion to help people since I was very young. I have been doing professional counseling for almost 30 years. I have a Degree in Psychology, a Masters Degree in Marriage & Family Therapy and am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California. I’m an experienced facilitator of health and healing for individuals, couples and families. With 30 years of experience in counseling, I know what it takes to move one into their desired path. My proven methods, will help you build and live a more authentic and powerful life. I create a place for individuals to talk about their experiences, to feel heard, knowing you’re valued, and feel a sense of belonging. My desire is to support you in identifying your strengths, facing life’s challenges, finding your purpose, building resilience, to grow and be vulnerable, to embrace your authentic self on your journey to a healthy lifestyle. I provide a safe, confidential and non-judgmental environment with understanding and respect. I use a holistic approach incorporating all aspects of the individual (psychological, social, emotional, physical and spiritual). It is often, not what happens in life, but how one deals with it. I believe the quality of your relationships, will determine the quality of your life. There are many things we can work on, where you will see your relationships improving. Many live with a life dominated by fear, and I can help you be an overcomer, instead of forever overcome. There are many areas I work in, however, I am interested in hearing from you and learning about you, your goals, desires and the pain. I believe that one should not export what isn't’ working in their own life. I have not only years of professional experience, but life experience as well, that has propelled me into a life, I never knew existed. I enjoy every day, the most amazing, loving relationship with my husband and I say that, to say this…. I know firsthand what a poor relationship is all about and I also know what it takes to get you from bad to Amazing. Nearly everyone can benefit from some direct, kind and professional support when an issue interferes with your enjoying a great life and Amazing relationships. Lack of effective support can interfere with rising above your circumstance, and being an overcomer to achieve what you want your life to be. I help people suffering from; Relationship issues, Dating, Anxiety, Depression, Fear, Coping, Panic Attacks, Low Self-Esteem, Stress, Grief and Loss, and Much More. Your reaching out, would telegraph to me that you don't want to just survive, but rather thrive. I can help you take the necessary steps... You "Matter".

This is Kathryn (Katie) Mason's avatar and link to their profile

Kathryn (Katie) Mason

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping 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, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. I am also trained in EMDR protocol. 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 Dr. Ray Armstrong's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Ray Armstrong

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCareer difficulties
20 years of experience

Hello, I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. My therapeutic philosophy is that individuals need to be a part of their own solutions. Each person is an expert of their own life; not anyone else. I strive to empower clients to feel that their successes come from themselves and are the result of their own dedication and hard work. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I work with many different modalities, but really feel Narrative therapy and Solution focused are ones that instill hope, encouragement and a chance to alter perspectives and the overall "script / narrative." I try to stay away from diagnostic labels and work well with those who don't appreciate categories. I do not start labeling or plugging you into a pre -existing program. I won't put you in a "clinical" diagnostic box. As a Narrative and Solution Focused therapist, we focus on strengths you already have & build on current resources. We don't just talk about the problems over and over. Sessions are focused on making life more fulfilling, comfortable, meaningful, and enjoyable. I offer a very safe, judgement -free zone, compassionate & caring environment. Thank you very much or taking the time to read a bit about my approach.

This is Natalie Escobar's avatar and link to their profile

Natalie Escobar

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
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, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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 Jennifer McHorse's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer McHorse

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW,CAC,MSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

Hello! I’m Jennifer Mc Horse and I have been practicing Social Work for over 15 years and, so far, have lived an interesting and full life which better helps me meet you where you are. As a therapist, I am an outlier when it comes to style and approach. My patients have described me as trustworthy, easy -to -talk to, non-judgmental, and authentic. Specializing in short- term, solution-focused approach, lifestyle modification, and evidence-based therapies to address, addictions, anxiety, depression, work-related stress, relationship issues, and more. I believe in empowering individuals to better get their needs met, increase their wellbeing and achieve goals. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive therapeutic space for my clients. I know first-hand how oppressive systems and manipulative agendas have an impact how we live our best lives. When working with me, the only agenda in the therapeutic setting, is your agenda. I would be honored to work with you.

This is Arin Bass's avatar and link to their profile

Arin Bass

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with eating disorders, body image issues, stress, anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with life stressors and 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.

This is Maria Garde's avatar and link to their profile

Maria Garde

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefCompassion fatigue
21 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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! Due to conflict of interest, I cannot accept any clients that are Kaiser consumers.

This is Nichelle Alva's avatar and link to their profile

Nichelle Alva

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, trauma, & abuse. I also have experience working with 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. 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.

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