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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Veronica Dover Hoffman

Offering therapy in California
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
27 years of experience

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 25 years of experience. I love working together with clients to achieve their goals. My approach is warm, welcoming and affirming with a client centered perspective. I have experience with a wide range of issues including partner relational issues, parenting, anxiety and depression, coping with life changes, handling stress (both personal and professional) and many more. I have experience working with client of all ages,. I’m certified in Parent Child Interaction Therapy which focuses on work with both parent and child to better cope with severe behavioral disorders in young children (ages 2 to 7) and I also have a certificate in aging as well. I have worked with couples, individuals, families, and children. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy to assist clients in understanding how their thoughts and feelings are influencing their behavioral choices. I also focus on life stages and development with a focus on helping you better understand your current situation in the context of both your individual life course and the common life stages and developmental tasks we all pass through as we go through life. I know that coming to therapy can make you feel incredibly vulnerable. My approach is to help you become comfortable and create a safe space where you can use the courage that it took for you to reach out to spur you on towards the positive change you are seeking. I’m really looking forward to working with you.

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Michelle Stanton White

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteem
9 years of experience

Life is difficult and, at one time or another, everyone needs extra support. I am here to help you alleviate your anxiety, grief, depression... whatever that has brought you here today. Perhaps you only need some assistance to resolve a problem or to deal with a difficult relationship. You have made the right decision to get some help. I left a successful career in the computer industry to become a Marriage and Family Therapist because I love helping people lead better lives. I’m an active therapist, collaborating with my clients to help them recognize self-defeating behavior, change their perspective, and make the right choice. I may use one or more empirically-supported techniques—Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused, Strategic Family, Motivational Interviewing, etc.—depending on the situation. But fundamentally, I believe change can only occur if my clients and I have a warm, trusting relationship. My goal is to help you move beyond your current difficulties so that you can achieve a happier and more productive life.

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Gregory Davenport

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hello there! I have been working in the mental health and addiction field profession for 10 years. I use an eclectic approach, however, the theoretical frameworks that most define me professionally combine unconditional positive regard, spiritual/faith-based and cognitive-behavioral theory. My style is pragmatic, professional, down-to-earth, and based upon professional and personal-life experiences. I have a unique ability to therapeutically join with clients which is partly due to my personality, style and vernacular. I am an eclectic counselor that utilizes multiple theories such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Solution-Focused Therapy. What is it like to work with me? Humor - Let's face it, therapy, counseling, or whatever you'd like to call it does NOT always have to be so serious. I enjoy the fact that my client's and I can laugh together. I believe that laughter is so important when exploring topics that are difficult and challenging. Culturally Sensitive - I have worked with many clients over the years that come from all walks of life. That includes culturally, ethnically, religiously, spiritually, age, or socioeconomic status, I respect and value all my clients for who they are. The truth is that we all have a history, and that history is part of our story to be told and valued. My Educational Credentials: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in CA (BBS) Substance Abuse Professional (NAADAC) Master of Science in Addiction Counseling (Grand Canyon University) Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (Argosy University) For my professional growth, I continuously read related literature, keep myself up to date with the ethical and legal guidelines in the field, and the latest research, and attend trainings. I look forward to working with you and being a part of your journey.

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Melinna Perez

Offering therapy in California
License: MMFT,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersDepression
10 years of experience

Hi, I’m Melinna! Before telling you about me, let me commend you for taking this courageous step in seeking support through therapy as an avenue towards a healthier lifestyle. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in California with over 10 years of experience working therapeutically with children, teens, adults, couples, families, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community. I earned my Master of Marriage and Family Therapy degree from USC in 2016 and Bachelor of Psychology degree and Bachelor of English degree from Mount St. Mary’s University in 2013. I have experience conducting individual and group therapy, in-office and online, both residential and outpatient settings with clients presenting with depression, anxiety, relationship and parenting issues, eating disorders, teen concerns, body dysmorphia, and a wide range of challenges including insomnia, addiction, trauma, abuse, bipolar, as well as personal growth, adjustment issues, and crisis. My therapeutic approach varies depending on the client and their needs. Some of these approaches include person-centered therapy, holistic therapy, mindfulness therapy, humanistic therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectic behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. I mostly tend to draw from the person-centered approach, which means that I make consistent efforts to meet each client "where they are" and to serve as a catalyst to each individual who is progressing through their unique process of self-discovery and self-identification. I recognize that seeking counseling is not an easy decision. It is my intention to provide clients with a judgment-free space and I encourage clients to be themselves each session and to express emotions and thoughts freely. I would be honored to walk this journey with you. Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy music, sports, reading, cooking, spending time with my family and pets, meditating, and going to the beach. I look forward to meeting and working with you!

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Dr. Roger Coger

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesSelf esteemADHD
38 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 38 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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.

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Dr. Michelle White

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
7 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I had two years working in private practice and two years in community mental health in offering individual and group psychotherapy, and psychological assessment services in diagnosis ADHD, Autism, depression, intellectual developmental disorder, general anxiety disorder, and OCD. I received training in providing trauma-sensitive clinical services within a psychodynamic theoretical framework that draws from object relations and attachment theory. I also utilize cognitive behavioral therapy. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, relationships struggles, and trauma. 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 takes courage. Warm regards, Dr. Michelle

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Joyann (Joy) Thornhill

Offering therapy in California
Trauma and abuseGriefCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 25 years of clinical work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, 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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Natalie Andre

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both California and Texas with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, and depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I have genuine unconditional positive regard for others and am very empathic towards life's struggles. 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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Anna Guha

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Hello, I'm Anna Guha, an LMFT with six years experience in clinical counseling. I have worked closely with individuals struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, and relationship issues. I've helped people from age six to eighty-six feel better about themselves and learn how to manage and thrive in change. My therapeutic approach blends person-centered and humanistic therapies, with an existential stance. Our freedom is a mixed-bag, liberating us while weighing us down with responsibility. You are the expert on your life, and your preferences and goals will guide the therapeutic process. I will help you embrace the freedom to create your own meaning and purpose, and help you learn how to navigate life’s challenges with authenticity and resilience.

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Monica Blandford

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed as an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience supporting clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, 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, I am simply there to help you find your path. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling, happy life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support and empower you on that journey.

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Claudia Lucio

Offering therapy in California
Family conflictsGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with 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. 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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Cheryle Lynn Roberts

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. 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.

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Maria E Gonzalez

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping 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 addictions, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and peaceful life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. Note:I am currently not accepting KP members

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Kathryn Feigin

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. 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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Jennifer Jacoby-Sheldon

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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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