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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Joshua Siskin

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT,BA,MS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
17 years of experience

I have been working as a mental health professional for 14 years. My approach is solution focused. I am not primarily concerned with how or why your present challenge developed, but rather will assist you in finding a way forward. I hope to elicit and reinforce your positive attributes and competencies and help you to access your inner strength. My goal is that you should feel better about yourself and life in general with the completion of our session together. Your ability to change or improve your situation depends on your desire to do so. My job is to awaken that desire within you.

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Yuki Sugisaki

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT ,LAADC,LPT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsEating disorders
14 years of experience

I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist since 2012. I am also certified drug counselor since 2005. I have working with individuals and their families who struggle with addiction, severe mental health, and co-occurring disorder. My reward to be therapist is to be a witness of people's turn around. If you are struggling with your addiction and feeling to walk in dark, I would like to be your candle to lighten your pass for recovery. If you are struggling with your loved one's addiction, let's talk and figure out how we can help your loved one. It is also painful for you to see your loved one is struggling. Along with my extended experiences with addiction counseling, I have helping people with depression, anxiety, severe mental health, co-dependency and family conflict. If you are feeling to be stuck with your life and need someone to talk to you, I am here to support you.

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Steven Smith

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT,MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am a licensed marriage and family counselor, practicing in the state of California. My focus is with individuals and couples. I have a bachelor's in Psychology, and a Master's in Clinical Psychology. I have 6 years of experience working with clients of varying ages, sexual orientations, ethnicities, and socioeconomic status. I work well with, but am not limited to; clients struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar, and PTSD. I use a client centered, existentialist approach, which essentially means that I work with you to help you be the way you want to be. I listen to your needs, and work with you to set your own goals. I am not here to "fix" people, and I am not focused on changing people. Instead, I hope to assist you in your path toward life satisfaction, and to not be overwhelmed by your symptoms.

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Dr. Brenda Davis

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW,DSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in California, Kentucky, Idaho, and Oregon with over 30 years of experience working as a therapist and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, work conflicts, and day to day problem solving. My therapy style is strength based. I believe in treating people with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral considering the person in their environment. Often what is needed is a safe place to be heard. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Cathy Simmons

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Christina Harris

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCompassion fatigue
9 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, family conflicts, & depression. 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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Julie Knight

Offering therapy in California
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Hi, I am a practicing Licensed Professional Counselor for the past 25 years and have over 35 years working in the mental health field. My experience ranges from working on inpatient psychiatric units and in crisis response programs, to providing individual and family therapy. My therapeutic approach is always person centered, strengths based and goal oriented. Whether you are having a crisis in your life, have suffered a loss, are adjusting to changing situations in your life, or are just wanting to be happier and feel better about yourself, I can help you. I have a passion for helping the LBGTQ community, be that helping someone through the coming out process, improve family relationships and develop healthy confidence and self-esteem in a culture that is still sometimes condemning and unsupportive. I like to help family members of LGBTQ folks better understand and improve ways of showing loving support and overcoming any obstacles to being supportive. Another population that I have a passion for helping is Highly Sensitive People. Many people get diagnosed with major mental illnesses due to their symptoms of having difficulty coping with a stressful and chaotic world. Highly Sensitive people, and introverts, are often misunderstood and criticized for being themselves and end up feeling like something is wrong with them, when, in fact, they may just have traits that need to be understood, honored and respected. Our culture tends to value extroversion and toughness, and yet sensitives and introverts are some of the most creative, artistic, kind and empathetic people on the planet. Sensitivity and introversion are not problems or things to change, explain or defend. They are wonderful traits that you can understand better and therefore develop greater confidence and ways of communicating your needs and feelings. If you wonder if you are a Highly Hi Sensitive person, Google search Highly Sensitive Person self test and check out Elaine Aron’s work online. I enjoy and have experience working with folks who are neurodivergent and am part of the neurodivergent movement which emphasizes the person and how you may have a differently functioning brain, rather than focusing on clinical diagnoses that pathologize differently functioning brains. I like to help people develop deeper insights and understanding of their unique personality, and using such insight to improve communication, relationships and life choices. I frequently work with people on knowing and understanding their personality typology (based on Carl Jung’s work and Myers Briggs test) and will link you to free online tests to get the information you need to better understand yourself and how you fit with other personality types. This kind of insight therapy will help you throughout your life rather than just focusing on addressing the issues of today. If you can relate to any of this information, I may be a great therapy fit for you and would love to work with you. -Julie

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Jeffrey Taynton

Offering therapy in California
Self esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California and I have been providing therapy for children, teens, and adults for nine years. I work hard to ensure that clients feel valued, understood, and accepted just as they are because this provides the foundation for effective therapy. When rapport and trust are established, the change process becomes available. I believe that people change by actively modifying the way they think, feel, and act in their daily lives. Therefore, I aim to help clients develop the insight, tools, and skills they need to make the changes they desire. I emphasize practical plans for applying new skills and tools learned in therapy sessions. I use interventions and tools from various approaches such as Person-Centered Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and EMDR. I have experience in helping clients with a range of issues including depression, unresolved traumas, difficulty regulating or accessing emotion, relationship issues, and communication problems. It is a true privilege to partner with clients in their journeys toward a better life.

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Patsy Folauo'o

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, & depression. 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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Zoe Bartlett

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Specializing in attachment theory, addiction, ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, and trauma; I strive to help adults gain new and even contrasting perspectives from personal experiences while repairing and maintaining emotional connections within relational systems. I also believe in holistic care, often implementing experiential strategies of movement, play, and humor to strengthen both the mind and body.

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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