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 Mark-Jeremy Trybulski's avatar and link to their profile

Mark-Jeremy Trybulski

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT, PsyD
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
18 years of experience

Greetings! My name is Mark Jeremy Trybulski. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California, MFC53284. Yay me. I just graduated from California Southern University with my PsyD in Psychology. Don't worry, I won't have you call me Dr. Mark! LOL I live in Palm Springs with my adorably sweet Maltese, Lulu. I am very focused on balancing my life with work, school, family and friends, and enjoying life one day at a time. I practice one of two types of "therapies". I can work with my client as a Life Coach, or as a Psychotherapist. As a Life Coach, we focus on today, and how we can make it a better tomorrow. As a Psychotherapist, we delve into past events, relate them to today and how they can be used to live a happier, healthier new life. I see individuals and couples. My two therapeutic models of choice are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy. A Psychodynamic Theory is a view that explains personality in terms of conscious and unconscious forces, such as unconscious desires and beliefs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a type of psychotherapeutic treatment that helps a client understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. I have an extensive background in addiction therapy, gay and lesbian issues/concerns (I am gay, myself), HIV/AIDS, Dual Diagnosis (specifically, Bipolar and Depression), Crisis Intervention, and just plain LIFE. My therapeutic model follows along with the flexible and relatable type of lifestyle I lead. I don't rely on formalities in session, but rather an atmosphere of safety, comfortableness, sharing, and learning. As a therapist, I believe it is important for my clients to realize that we are all equals in life. And, I realize that, through circumstance and at any time, I could be the person sitting next to me. We, all, have life issues to share - both good and bad. And it is important that we have someone who will hear us and understand our concerns without judgment. All of us strive to be the happiest and healthiest we can be with what we know. But when we get stuck in the rut of trying to do better and not having the success we desire, it is important to hear another perspective. Perspectives are like clothing; try it on and see if it fits. If it does, wonderful. Wear it in good health. If not, take it back and get a new outfit. There is one for everyone out there, it just takes a little work to find the one that fits you. What is your dream? Mine is to make a difference. I know. It is all relevant. Earlier in my life, my dream was totally different. It was about survival. Well, I've survived. And now it is my turn to be there to assist others toward their survival, in any way that I can. To further that perspective, I've realized that my perspective of reality can serve as a critical understanding of one's perceived reality. My supervisor provided insight that, when we meet a new client, we meet them where they are. Not where we want them to be. I don't represent a reality with mal-intent: rather an intent towards a motivation for a realistic positive future movement. "If you do what you've always done, you'll get what you've always gotten." (Tony Robbins) ‘Do what you feel in your heart to be right–for you’ll be criticized anyway.’ (Eleanor Roosevelt)

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Amelia (Amy) Benedict

Offering therapy in California
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issues
11 years of experience

"Falling down is a part of life, getting back up is living." - anonymous We all fall down from time to time. It takes courage to seek help and support during those times when we have difficulty getting back up. I commend you for taking the first step. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California. I have a Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology and have been working in this field for over 12 years. I initially made this career choice because I wanted to learn how to help myself and my family. I discovered I had a real passion and talent for connecting with and understanding others. I am currently working with military service members and their families. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, anger management, communication difficulties and parenting. I also have experience working with trauma and abuse. My counseling style is very warm and empathetic. I believe in treating everyone with respect and being non-judgmental. I utilize a combination of cognitive behavioral, humanistic and psychodynamic modalities, with a focus on unconditional positive regard. I will work with you to identify your strengths and tailor treatment to meet your specific needs.

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Ann Legierski

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseAnger management
13 years of experience

Hello, my name is Ann Legierski and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters Degree in Social Work from University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from University of Phoenix. I have been in practice as a therapist for the past 13 years working with people of all ages, cultural backgrounds and ethnicities, including individuals, couples, families, and the LGBTQIA community. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and integrates several therapeutic modalities such as evidenced based treatment modalities that include: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing (MI), psychoeducation and more holistic approaches such as humanistic and existential psychotherapies. I meet each client from a client centered approach in order to establish a therapeutic relationship based on empathy, unconditional compassion and regard, respect, understanding, and acceptance and providing a safe, non-judgmental and nurturing therapeutic environment. Treatment plans are specifically designed to each clients own personal uniqueness and personal goals and objectives. Ultimately I try to teach each one of my clients to embrace change to help them understand that change is an ever present constant but that it is vitally important and necessary for factor for growth and to thrive. My role as therapist is to provide education, encouragement, insight, and feedback that will motivate and fortify their courage to stay the course to navigate their personal journey called life! “Everybody has a life purpose. Whatever is seeking you, that’s what you seek. That what’s calling you. That’s your life purpose.” -Sabine Bulhmann I look forward to working with you!

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Lina Vielma

Offering therapy in California
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
20 years of experience

Welcome! My counseling style is caring, supportive and intentional. I treat everyone with compassion. Self-esteem, trauma, anxiety, depression, feeling of hopelessness, past trauma, emotional difficulties, and relational issues are my specialties. Being both Navajo Native American Indian and Filipino, I am compassionate toward cultural issues and concerns. I am compassionate and provide a calm, therapeutic space where you will be understood. You can explore your feelings, at a comfortable pace away from confusion. I will challenge you so that you can move toward a more productive life. Your journey is unique and I look forward to working with you.

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Eryn Keller-Arndt

Offering therapy in California
Trauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 7 years of professional work experience. I have previously worked in community mental health settings and hospice. I have experience in helping clients coping with grief and loss, major life transitions, addiction, self esteem, domestic violence, trauma, homelessness, depression, and anxiety. I believe that everyone deserves to be treated with resect, an open mind, and compassion. I feel strongly that therapy should be tailored to fit each person's needs in respect to their desired outcomes, life experiences, and beliefs. My approach includes a combination of humanistic, cognitive, behavioral, and existential therapies, as well as motivational interviewing and trauma-focused techniques. I believe that therapy is a journey in which we work as a team to improve your quality of life. I look forward to working with you to create goals and a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes great strength to reach out for help and you should be proud. I am truly honored to work with you!

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Joe Narvid

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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 have over 10 years expertise with active military and 30 years expertise with LBGBT issues both civilian and military

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Yolanda Robles

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

I am licensed in California with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and 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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Marjorie George

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jacqueline Valdovinos

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am bilingual Spanish licensed in California with 10+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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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Alex Guerrero

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping 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, mood, family conflicts, relationships, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.

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.
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