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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Tara Boerner

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT, CDMHRS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGrief
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I also have experience working with coping with grief and loss. 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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Jilla Lavian

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in California, with nearly 20 years of experience working with diverse communities on a wide range of issues. I attended the University of Southern California for my dual masters in Social Work and Jewish Communal Service. I am also trained as a transformational life coach. I believe that self-exploration is an investment in you and your future. When we learn to pay attention to our thoughts and feelings with kindness and compassion, we gain insight and a true understanding of our authentic selves. We experience a sense of inner-peace, find deeper meaning, and become more nurturing to ourselves and others without judgment. My mission is to get to know the core of who you are and understand your inner experiences. Together we will explore your emotional state. I will listen and validate your feelings within a safe space with empathy. My intention is to help you set new goals and take steps towards achieving them. I will work with you to gain a true understanding of your strengths and help you restore your sense of clarity, direction, and creativity. I use different approaches in my work depending on the needs of my clients, including: client-centered, cognitive behavioral with psychodynamic perspective, mindfulness, and strength-based therapy. Specialties: Life coaching Stress, anxiety Women’s issues Self esteem Acculturation Coping and adjustment Depression Relationship issues Parenting Languages: English Farsi

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Rachel Fuller

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

Congratulations! It takes courage to ask for help. Hopefully we can work as a team to improve your perspective, way of thinking and overall approach to live. My name is Rachel Fuller and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor practicing in Southern California for the past 5 years. I grew up in the Philadelphia/ New Jersey and graduated with my Masters from the University of Pennsylvania. As a result I have the benefit of an East coast straightforward and honest approach mixed with SoCal creativity and compassion. Life has changed for everyone over the past few months on a small or large scale. As with any disruption, many people are experiencing any number of emotions : anxiety, loss, uncertainty or depression. It is essential during this time that we maintain human connection and communicate our thoughts, desires, needs and feelings. I hope to provide support for clients of any age who are struggling, want to learn more about themselves or simply need someone to listen. I don't have a "cookie cutter" approach to therapy- I value feedback and flexibility to find the best fit for my clients. I look forward to meeting you!

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Erika Torres

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Relationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Hi! My name is Erika, and I am an LMFT in California. I have been licensed for 13 years and have practiced in a variety of settings. Through therapy, I hope to help you become your best self and find joy in your life. When working with individuals, I utilize a variety of clinical approaches, including Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. My counseling style is empowering, supportive, and direct....with a side of humor!:) I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles. I'm here to help you sort through the things that are difficult right now, and offer you a safe place to be open and honest without fear of judgment. You have taken the first and most important step by reaching out for help! I look forward to getting to know you, helping you achieve your goals, and experiencing joy in your life. Warm regards, Erika Torres, LMFT

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Tanya Roberts

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 20 years of experience working as a therapist in private practice. I have worked with a wide variety of clients, ages 8 to 80, who struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, and trauma. My therapy style is warm and interactive. At times, I may utilize humor to highlight a concern, at other times I may be more directive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. I utilize a cognitive behavioral approach to therapy while incorporating natural and holistic styles in treatment. I also believe in matching the treatment style to the person and not the person to the treatment style. It takes courage to take steps towards change. I am here to listen and offer my support and guidance every step of the way. I have availability for Better Help on Mondays and Fridays. Please note that I do my best to return messages at least once a day, however if I am in session or Tuesday-Thursday when I am working in person it may take me several hours or until the evening time to return messages.

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Samuel Bruno

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety and depression as well as coping with grief and loss . I work with couples to help them repair and restore their trust for each other. 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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Deanna Murray

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 13 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 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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Cheri Williams

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 14 plus years of professional work experience. I specialize in in helping clients with anxiety, stress and depression as well as parenting issues, motivation, self-esteem, confidence and Autism. I also have experience and expertise in treating couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen emotional intimacy. Additionally, I have an understanding of Christian faith-based issues and am committed to providing a compassionate, holistic approach that integrates mental health and faith. Whether you're looking for guidance on personal struggles or relational difficulties, I'm here to walk alongside you, offering practical tools and insights to help you find peace and healing 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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Craig Bray

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesAnger managementDepression
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, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & anger management. 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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Maria Galvan-Perry

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT,PPSC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, (LMFT) in California with 13 years of experience working as a Psychotherapist/Mental Health Therapist with Individuals, parents, and mostly children and adolescents . I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, anger issues and adjustment to phase of life. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating people with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral, Narrative, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused, and Rational-Emotive Counseling. I will develop a treatment plan to meet your individual needs and goals. It is brave of you to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to taker this step to understanding patterns and learning new ways to think and relate to others then I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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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