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.
Dr. Rachel Radin
Greetings! My name is Rachel Radin, and I am a licensed clinical health psychologist in the state of California who specializes in treating adults with anxiety, mood, and eating disorders. I hold a Masters and PhD in Clinical and Medical Psychology from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) in Bethesda, Maryland. I completed a Pre-doctoral Internship in Pediatric Psychology at Mount Washington Pediatric Hospital. I developed expertise in cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy, and psychodynamic psychotherapy during my training at USUHS and throughout the DC/Metro Area. As a clinical health psychologist, I have a specialized interest in treating adults who suffer from weight-related eating concerns, such as binge eating and stress-related eating. During my clinical psychology internship at Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland, I developed expertise in addressing health-related psychological concerns including diabetes management, obesity management, chronic health conditions, and developmental concerns. I completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), where I developed additional expertise in using mindfulness-based and motivational-interviewing based treatments for a variety of presenting concerns. At UCSF, I developed a brief intervention to reduce stress-related eating among adults using mindfulness and motivational-based approaches. I look forward to working with you and helping to guide you towards your best self!
Meghan Carroll
I am a Clinical Social Worker, licensed in California, Texas, and Alabama and I have been practicing Social Work for seven years. I currently live in Alabama so I am in Central Time for scheduling purposes. I have worked in various settings, including residential psychiatric treatment facilities, in-home therapy, as well as providing therapy in an office setting and through telehealth services. I have worked with adolescents, adults, couples, families, and the older adult population. I have a large amount of experience working with anxiety, depression (including intense training on post-partum mood disorders), trauma, family conflicts, grief/loss, and parenting issues. My approach to therapy is to first and foremost build a strong and positive therapeutic relationship with my clients. As a therapist, I focus on each person's specific individual needs, meeting the client where they are at in the present moment, and adjusting my style to meet their needs. I am a solution focused, strengths based therapist but I also utilize components of cognitive therapy and trauma-informed therapy as needed. My ultimate purpose as a therapist is to provide positive support and a safe space for someone to open up and process any thoughts, feelings, and emotions that they find would be helpful for them. I look forward to working with you!
Barbara Brown
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I have over 25 years experience is working in multiple clinical settings that include outpatient clinics, , private practice, retirement homes and criminal justice settings. My experience includes work with individuals, groups, couples and families. I truly enjoy working with people and I am dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental setting that supports and empowers clients to manage a variety of concerns and transitions encountered in their lives. My approach is to create a comfortable and supportive atmosphere where the client and I work closely together in resolving issues. In my work I utilize a number of approaches that are best suited to to what is happening in the moment. These modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Solution-focused therapy, Mindfulness Practice and Trauma-Focused Therapy. I also utilize handouts and readings as I believe it is important to assist clients in building a virtual "Tool Box" in which they develop effective tools for working with difficulties in the future. Over the years I have worked with clients struggling with many different issues such as depression, anxiety, stress-related issues, relationship problems, dealing with life changes, issues with aging, grief and loss as well as adjustment and crisis. Reaching out for support during a difficult time is an important and positive step and I would look forward to working with you in this journey.
Elissa Padilla
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with nearly 10 years of experience in various capacities within the Behavioral Health field as a counselor, a case manager, and a social worker. I enjoy working with everyone from teens to military, and those in between. I also have ample experience working with those impacted by substance use disorders, parenting concerns, past emotional trauma, and anxiety. My therapeutic approach depends on each individual's needs! However, I enjoy using Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused, and Psychodynamic therapies to help clients reach their goals. I strive to create a safe, compassionate environment that is free from judgement, yet also fosters change, acceptance, and growth for all clients. These past couple of years have been difficult for many. Please allow me to commend this first crucial step towards creating a healthier, happier next chapter! I look forward to being a part of your journey.
Marimar Rosa Monge
Hello, My name is Marimar Rosa. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Social Work. I am bilingual (Spanish and English). I provide counseling to couples, families, individuals. The age range that I provide counseling services to are teenagers, adults and elders. I would love to communicate with you to help you establish and achieve goals. This could help us work towards improving the quality your life and relationship. I could also help provide support for conflicts in your work environment and create healthy habits to overcome the tension caused by the Pandemic. I am here to help for those times in life where we feel vulnerable, confused and in need of a guidance. I would be honored to help you in this process of healing and improvement.
Kelly Dutka
I am licensed in California with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & intimacy related 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. 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.
Marcia Pontoni
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 25 years of professional experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, anxiety and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I use different treatment types such as Cognitive Behavioral therapy and utilize mindfulness in my work with clients. 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. I work best in the video and telephone modalities. I work part-time for Better Help. My primary availability is Tuesdays and Fridays and I can be flexible as needed. I look forward to working with you.
Hazel Gonzalez
I am licensed in California with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am bilingual in English and Spanish.
Leslie Westbrook
As a compassionate and empathetic therapist, my primary mission is to guide my clients on their path to healing from trauma. I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to regain their sense of well-being and happiness, and I am deeply committed to helping them achieve this. With a warm and nonjudgmental approach, I create a safe space for my clients to explore and process their traumatic experiences. I understand that each individual's journey is unique, so I tailor my therapeutic interventions to their specific needs. Through our work together, you can expect to find solace, strength, and a renewed sense of hope as you embark on a transformative journey towards healing and growth. My ultimate goal is to empower clients to overcome their trauma and embark on a path towards renewed well-being and emotional growth. Together, we'll navigate the path to healing, providing support and tools every step of the way. Your journey to a brighter future begins here.
Bryan Williams
I am licensed in California with 4 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Heather Salazar
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, family conflicts, & 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.
Carole Cassidy
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.
Isabel Rubio
I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, women’s issues, LGBTQ+ issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I have worked mostly within the Latinx community and with generational trauma. 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.
ilissa Banhazl
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I believe a person will grow when they have a genuine relationship with their therapist. I have experience working with individuals, couples and families. I have facilitated support groups for women as well as eating disorder groups. I can help you to better understand your feelings and thoughts and implement new behaviors that support your goals. Making changes takes courage and I am here to support you on your journey.
Dr. Amy Brown
I am licensed in New York with 17+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with chronic medical conditions, depression and anxiety, life transitions, fertility challenges, and relationship issues. 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 step to see a therapist and work towards a more fulfilling life takes time and 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:
- 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 featur
- 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 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.
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
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