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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Katina Boulai

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

My name is Katina Boulai and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I know that seeking help can be a difficult choice but you are not alone. I have many years experience working with families, couples, and individuals using a relational, cognitive behavioral therapy and family systems approach. I have experience with diverse populations with issues relating to depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, parenting, divorce, grief, life transitions, and relationship issues. I also worked with the adult homeless community and teens experiencing issues with addiction. My approach is respectful and empathetic working in the here and now based on my client's need. Taking this step is not always easy but very helpful in order to develop better ways of dealing with day-to-day struggles. Having someone with whom you can safely and privately discuss your concerns creates an opportunity to achieve a better quality of life. I use a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each client. What we discuss is confidential except if there are any concerns that you may be a danger to yourself or others. My office hours are Monday-Thursday 6:00-8:00 P.M and I typically respond to messages within 24 hours or sooner if possible.

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Rosemary Flores

Offering therapy in California
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
12 years of experience

Hi All! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California with 11 years of experience providing services to children, youth, adults, and families. I have great experience providing mental health therapy/services to clients enduring anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, change of life circumstances, and various forms of trauma. I earned my stripes with providing community based mental health services to low income families and the coordination of a residential facility's mental health treatment program for adolescent males on probation. Currently, I am supervising the next generation of mental health professionals as they embark within this career. When working with individuals and families I strive to assist each member with developing personal awareness of triggers and applying healthy coping skills to manage their reactions to triggers. I promote self-expression and self-esteem to guide each individual to find their desired balance and coordinate through the many obstacles of life. In therapy session, I often utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy concepts, however, I do consider my style as eclectic as I tailor my services to fit the individual's needs. I strive to assist others with their personal growth and and gaining of self-confidence to navigate through the everyday and out of ordinary life circumstances. Now that you know about me, lets get started. Looking forward to meeting and getting to know you!

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Katie Aab

Offering therapy in California
License: MA ,LMFT
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
9 years of experience

Hi! My name is Katie Aab and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Riverside, California. I have over seven years experience as a therapist, in both the Community Mental Health model and in Private Practice. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University in 2013. My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, career challenges, mood disorders, substance use issues, and OCD. I have also worked with clients who struggle with stress, loss, abuse/neglect, and the frustrations of life. I would describe my approach as empathetic, goal oriented, and client centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Solution focused therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Motivational interviewing to help my clients set goals and objectives, work through their traumas, and feel empowered once they have met their goals. I enjoy helping people through challenging situations. I provide a warm and non-judgmental environment, allowing us to better work together and reach your goals. Everyone deserves to have someone they can easily talk to; let me be that person for you. I look forward to working with you and guiding you in meeting your therapeutic goals as well.

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Kim Selbert

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
GriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hello. My name is Kim Selbert and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California. I have practiced counseling for ten years and have expertise in the following areas: Coping with Grief and Loss, Cancer, Life Purpose, Pregnancy & Childbirth and Women's Issues. I primarily use a Client-Centered approach and also draw on personal experiences in all of these areas with the clients I work with. I have a broad and diverse background in the helping profession that also includes utilizing laughter as a healing modality. In addition to my Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Lindenwood University, I also obtained a Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Southern California. I am also a published author and wrote Childbirth Choices in Mothers' Words, that was published by Mills & Sanderson in 1990. I believe that the best therapy involves support, empathy and education. The therapeutic relationship is designed to encourage and support change and to enable the client to be able to create a better life with the skills learned through therapy that can be utilized even after therapy ends.

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Gina Gonzalezreyna

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
24 years of experience

Hello! My name is Gina Gonzalezreyna, a doctoral candidate with a California MFT license and over 20 years of professional experience. With a kind and steady hand, I utilize interventions that are engaging, meaningful, and sometimes even humorous. My focus is to increase my clients' sense of self-awareness, inner-wisdom, and well-being. Whether in English or/ and Spanish, I can help you deal with issues related to relationships, parenting, motivation, self-esteem/ confidence, grief & loss, depression, and Autism. I believe that you are the expert in your story and that, even if you don't know it yet, you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming what seems currently challenging . Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, I am here to support your efforts in this wonderful process of personal discovery. To this purpose, keeping a weekly standing appointment is important, whether on live chat, phone call, or video session. I keep to the times on my schedule and please allow 24hours for text and other replies. In case of emergency please dial 988. As per Better Help’s contract, this platform is not for extreme cases in mental health or where your safety or that of others’ may be at stake. I look forward to meeting you and starting this adventure leading to emotional growth and stability.

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Dr. Merilee Lovejoy

Offering therapy in California
Trauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemBipolar disorderCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in the state of California as a clinical psychologist. I have over 13 years of experience providing therapy to clients in various settings from private practice, to outpatient, to inpatient settings. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflicts, and addictions. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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!

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Dr. Maureen O'Shea

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

I am a licensed California psychologist with more than 30 years of professional experience. I work to help clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & coping with life changes. I attempt 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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Michael Brown

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
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, anger management, depression, & coping with life changes. 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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Carolyn White

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Welcome! I provide virtual therapy in California, Virginia, and Alabama for anxious high-achievers and recovering perfectionists struggling with finding satisfaction in life, relationships, or work. I help you figure out what’s going on, let go of the panic, and feel more in control of your life by teaching you what to do with your feelings of anxiety, anger, and overwhelm. 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. My approach is warm, compassionate and direct. The therapy process involves learning about yourself, recognizing your patterns, and actively working on making changes to meet your goals. I will make jokes, cheer your wins, listen to your pain, challenge you, and offer practical experiences to build your confidence as you create the life you want. I have over 14 years of specialized experiencing supporting active duty military, first responders, veterans, government professionals, engineers, financial analysts and contracting officers with their unique work-life challenges.

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Carole Cassidy

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf 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, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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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.

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Mari Fullmer

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I specialize in helping adults, young adults and sensitive persons who experience stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, or improving motivation, self esteem, and confidence to feel more grounded, peaceful, & powerful in their relationships and their life. I help clients find harmony inside and out and harness their sensitivity into one of their greatest strengths. 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. Our job is to help you reconnect to or uncover your strengths so that you have more resources to overcome your challenges. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am happy you're taking this step. You deserve to feel good! I'm ready to be your ally in your journey toward greater wellbeing. Therapy with me combines both insight & understanding with action. I will offer you skills to address areas of your life and wellbeing that you'd like to improve. Our work is a collaboration. There is no one-size fits all approach and your active engagement is essential to see change. Clients describe me as warm, compassionate, playful, and relatable. I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California and Michigan with 14 years of professional work experience. I incorporate many modalities including CBT, ACT, Mindfulness and more. As a holistic therapist I focus on the whole person, not just the problems or symptoms you are facing. This may also include exploring the mind-body-spirit connection, which can help bring new insight into challenges as well as link to our deeper life purpose. I look forward to meeting you and supporting you on your journey.

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Christie Byrd

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
20 years of experience

Hello there, thanks for stopping by. I’m looking forward to meeting you to assess if we are a good fit for each other. I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, LGBTQIA+ related issues, trauma, abuse, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, grief and loss, shame and guilt, interpersonal conflict, family dynamics and addiction. 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!

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Christina Tyhurst

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger management
10 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in California privileged to have 10+ years of professional work experience providing various therapies to my wonderful clients. After earning my bachelors degree in psychology at UC Davis, I worked at a school that served children with a primary diagnosis of autism. While I was a member of a team that helped teach 8-10 year old boys various skill acquisition tasks, I learned a great deal in this line of work as well. The program was loosely based on applied behavior analysis where we focused on using positive reinforcement to teach various competencies and decrease maladaptive coping skills. Following this I began providing ABA services in home for kids with autism aged 3-7yo. I worked helping kids learn more daily living skills, school readiness, behavior modification, and more. I then had a short stint as a nanny (and definitely used my behavior modification knowledge to my advantage). Following that I earned my MSW at the University of Southern California where I had an internship as a school counselor (and earned my PPSC), and at a partial hospitalization program at UCLA’s neuropsychiatric hospital working with families with kids who struggled with school for various reasons. Upon graduation I went back to ABA as a supervisor and managed a caseload of 10-15 families with children on the autism spectrum providing case management, parent training, staff training, program planning, behavior modification strategies and most importantly, doing all of this while building a strong and positive rapport with my clients and their families. Since 2017 I’ve shifted my focus to working with adults and focusing on relationship and life skills such as boundaries, mindfulness, anger management, assertiveness, how to choose a healthy partner, how to have a healthy relationship, emotion identification, expression, regulation, and communication. I also love exploring how our attachment styles and coherent narratives impact our ability and path of growth. I believe that the relationship between a therapist and a client is one that requires an important fit. It’s ok to shop around to find someone that fits you and if I’m the lucky therapist who works with your personality, then I truly look forward to working with you to improve your life. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Your mental health is worth EVERYTHING.

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Debbie Rehman Lux

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesEating disordersSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, eating disorders, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.

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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