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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Jessica Colarco

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

Are anxiety, stress, or overwhelming emotions holding you back from living your best life? I’m here to help you regain control, find balance, and thrive. I have dedicated my practice to creating a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your feelings, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and achieve lasting transformation. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of daily stressors or facing deeper emotional wounds, I’m committed to walking this journey with you. Why Choose My Practice? Proven Expertise: Nearly two decades of professional experience in anxiety and emotional health. Personalized Care: Tailored treatment plans that meet your unique needs and goals. Holistic Approach: Integrative methods focusing on both mind and body wellness. I understand that seeking therapy is a courageous step, and I’m honored to support you as you move toward a more fulfilled and balanced life. Together, we’ll work on building resilience, enhancing self-awareness, and empowering you to embrace life’s possibilities with confidence and joy. If you’re ready to prioritize your mental health and make meaningful changes, I’m here to help. Let’s take the first step together. Let's Begin Your Journey to Wellness!

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Dara Charlton

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefEating disordersDepression
20 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker counselor in Oregon and California with over 20 years of experienceworking as a therapist and health coach. I have worked with clients with a widerange of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parentingproblems, career challenges, eating disorders and borderline personality disorders. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is non judgemental and down to earth. I believe in treating anyone with respect,sensitivity, and compassion, and I want to hear your story with an open heart and mind. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing psychodynamic and rational-emotivecounseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am constantly learning and taking courses to make sure my approach is unique to each situation. It takes a lot of guts to seek out help and work to reduce suffering to create a fulfilling life. . I have a passion for helping people with complex presentations including chronic medical issues, eating disorders, mood instability, anxiety, self harm behaviors, suicidal thoughts, and symptoms of trauma. Together we will explore thoughts, feelings, behaviors and uncover what is leading to self limiting behaviors and beliefs. I will help you develop the school to create a life of peace. Outside of my work as therapist, I enjoy visiting my family in LA, and watching my daughter dance, I am passionate about juicing and spin class. My best friend is my dog Sailor a Havaton (half Havanese/half Coton du Tulear).

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Merrill Tamiya Moreno

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT,PPS
Relationship issues
16 years of experience

Relationship help is here! Hello, and thank you for stopping by in your search for support. Although I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I am practicing as a Relationship Coach on the Betterhelp platform. You will receive the same exact support and expertise from me as a licensed therapist, but since I only currently offer live messaging sessions with no diagnosing or formal treatment planning, on this platform I will solely be practicing as your Relationship Coach. Any questions about this? Don’t hesitate to ask! :) A little bit more about my professional background: I have 16 years of experience as a mental health provider. I am deeply rooted in a psychodynamic, insight-oriented approach, with a focus on relationships. As your coach, we will dive into uncovering subconscious messages and drives from early life and we will explore ways this has impacted your adult life and relationships in particular. Together we’ll develop insight into what’s really going on and figuring out the root causes behind those relationship obstacles or patterns you may wish to change. If this sounds like the type of coaching you would be interested in engaging in, I would be more than happy to join you on your journey!

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Dr. Benedicte Last

Offering therapy in California
License: PsyD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
9 years of experience

In my long career as a parent, a therapeutic horseback riding instructor, a school counselor and a psychologist, I have learned the following truths: We are all on our path, always striving to heal ourselves. Emotion is the language of the body, communication to our soul. We can recognize where we need to go, by following our enthusiasm. It is okay to ask for what you need and receive help and encouragement. We learn and heal best through play, making mistakes, and trying again. All situations can be turned therapeutic. You may feel you have lost your way, or that your feelings and emotions are running away with you. You may not know what to do with yourself, or with your child. You may have lost your enthusiasm for life, or don’t know how to ask for what you need. Or maybe you are so afraid of making a mistake. I understand, I have been there, too. And you can find your enthusiasm as well, as a human being, as a parent, as child, a partner, a friend or a co-worker. I can help you find the building blocks you need to build your better life. Let’s talk and play this out together.

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Toni McGivern

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
7 years of experience

I am a licensed Therapist with over 8 years of experience in California. I've worked with clients with many concerns including anxiety, relationship issues, depression, parenting, etc I've also helped many with trauma and emotional abuse. My approach combines Attachment, Client-centered, Solution-Focused, CBT, and Humanistic. Above all, my priority is meeting you where you are at and your unique needs. I appreciate the courage it takes to reach out. I look forward to joining you on your journey!

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Dr. Alejandro De Elias

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Bryan Hixson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepression
15 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, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with 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. 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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Paula Fuentes

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Hong Zhang

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

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Susan Bailes

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, parenting issues, anger management, & 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. 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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Michele Tarlow

Offering therapy in California
Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemADHD
29 years of experience

I am licensed clinical social worker residing in California with 29 years of professional work experience. I grew up in New York and moved to California 24 years ago. I have a masters degree n social work, a pupil personnel credential in school social work, and specialize in working with children and their families in all challenges that arise in their lives. I look at the biopsychosocial model and provide a safe place to discuss any issues that may arise in your daily life. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, and motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (ADHD). 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. I look forward to meeting you and helping you through this difficult time no matter how big or small the issue may seem.

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Danielle Ecker

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & 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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Steven Goings

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteem
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, & relationship issues. I am particularly skilled at working with issues related to diversity and inclusion and various spiritual belief systems. 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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Nancy Tomas

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, & 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. 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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Cassondra Del Rosario

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma, abuse, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with 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! **Out of Office Every Friday and Weekends.**

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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