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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Andrea Perez Portillo

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Family conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker licensed in California with experience working with immigrant, Communities of Color, and LGBTQIA2S+ folks across the lifespan. I have predominantly worked with youth and families and operate from a person-in-environment, relational and liberatory approaches that recognize the impact systems of oppression, historical, and personal trauma have on marginalized communities. My communication style is collaborative and empathetic. My role is to create a safe space for exploration and affirmation of your life and experiences therein and build upon your strengths. Together we can identify goals and supportive strategies along the way to help you live your best life. I look forward to working with you!

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Elaine Pritchard

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

My heart’s calling is to work with people who are striving for a more joyous and fulfilling life, and to help them deal with the hard issues that stand in the way of happiness. I obtained an MA in Counseling of Psychology and a BA in Psychology, to better understand those I strive to help. I hold ANSA and CANS certificates, as well as an ACT Trainer certificate I use my innate qualities of humor, compassion, understanding, caring, and listening spirituality to work with men, women, individuals, teens, and families. My approach to mental healing is that I walk alongside my clients, and help them navigate the difficult path towards a healthier and more enjoyable life. I use theories from CBT, Motivational Therapy, to talk therapy. People say that I’m easy-going, empathetic, and look at things a little differently outside the box to find new paths to fulfillment. My areas of interest include trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, spectrum disorders (autism), codependency, betrayal, grief, life transitions, teen and women’s issues, and spirituality. I love going to movies and am a huge fan of the Boston Red Sox. My bucket list includes trips to places as far-flung as Australia and Dollywood.

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Ann Kite

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
28 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. 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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Ryan Sweat

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

Hi! I'm Ryan, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have a history of working with a wide diversity of clients, and experience in helping clients deal to work through 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 you can use to overcome the things that challenge you. 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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Nina Glassman

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, career difficulties, & 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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Judith 'Judi' Shaffer

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

I am licensed in California and Massachusetts with 29 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Michael Wood

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, parenting issues, & 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.

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Jonathan Edwards

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Jenna LaVallee

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

Welcome! Originally from Minnesota, I currently live in Idaho with my daughter and Air Force husband. We love to travel and see different states. We are in the process of moving for my husbands job so I've switched gears to continue doing what I love while having some flexibility in providing telehealth therapy. I love to read and learn and spend time outside. I so love being a therapist and walking with people through their own journey. I am fairly laid back and work hard to meet people where they are at. What works for you, works for me. I am licensed in Idaho, California, Minnesota and Utah with about 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I most recently worked full time as a mental health and substance abuse counselor for juveniles but also have experience working with adults and people with disabilities as well. I am a certified clinical trauma professional and certified in dialectical behavioral therapy. 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'm so glad you are here and look forward to working with you!

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Elizabeth (Lizzy) Campbell

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience

It is a brave step to begin therapy. Dedicating the time, energy, and resources to tend to yourself is both a big commitment and challenging work. Therapy can be a space that helps us create change and generate insight into our feelings, behaviors, and relationships. I believe deeply in the importance of creating a safe space while also building a strong therapeutic alliance. The healing/growth process is not always the most comfortable but there is nothing more empowering than taking our power back. If you are ready to begin taking good care of yourself, I can help you along that path. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, realistic, and empathetic. I have had the distinct privilege of serving individuals, couples, and families from a diverse range of backgrounds. I specialize in trauma therapy in children and adults and enjoy an experiential approach to healing. I have experience working with domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking survivors. I am trained as a child and adolescent trauma professional and I am also skilled in assisting in an array of clinical issues including chronic stress and anxiety, trauma, ADHD, depression, mood disorders, various personality disorders, Adoption concerns (Birthparents, Adoptive Parents, and Adoptees), esteem, and self-worth, along with academic and employment challenges. I welcome LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities into my practice.

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 BetterHelp therapists in California does not offer diagnostic or medication management services in therapy.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor or therapists?

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, working with:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders requiring therapy
  • Anxiety disorders in need of therapeutic support
  • Depression or depressive mental health conditions
  • Adjustment issues in need of therapeutic support
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief therapy
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma therapy
  • Relationship conflicts and mental health concerns

Finding a therapist in California 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 therapy site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the therapy 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 therapy with a licensed therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person California therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $65 to $100 per week. 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.

Is it possible to find a therapist, counselor, or psychology practitioner that offers affordable therapy?

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.

What can a psychologist help me with in therapy?

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 in-person or online therapy with a therapist in California?

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.

Are online therapy sessions 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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