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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Noel O'Neil

Offering therapy in California
License: MA.
Self esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

I am a Marriage Family Therapist licensed in the State of California since 1985. I have spent most of my career working in community behavioral health clinics, so I have treated a variety of different conditions and challenges. Currently I am interested in working with adults who may be experiencing a sense of loss of meaning in life and are looking for a renewed sense of purpose. Time spent in sessions could be helpful in seeking strategies to improve relationships with those people in your life that you are close to. I favor solution focused interventions that can bring about change. I can also supply support to persons seeking a spiritual path. I am trained in Person Centered Therapy, Strategic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Jungian Archetypes with dream analysis as a guide to new directions. I have a daily yoga and meditation practice as a way to recharge my energy. I have been married for 43 years, and have three young grandsons. I enjoy working in my small apple orchard.

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Susan Johnston

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT (California & Indiana),LMHC (Indiana)
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Indiana, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Indiana, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I was a returning adult student and have been very fortunate to work as a team with individuals and families in office settings, residential and group homes, inpatient mental health care, intensive outpatient treatment, probation, and a college academic environment in my work experience and counselor training. What I learned is that many of us may want and/or need help sometimes. I also have training and experience in addiction treatment, where I enjoyed helping individuals and families work together to believe in themselves and possibility again. I have had the pleasure of working with individuals, couples, and families from nearby places and immigrant and refugee families from around the world, with the help of professional interpreters, and all of us working together to create a team respectful of languages and cultures. My counseling philosophy combines humanistic and experiential theories and emotions and cognitive work grounded in family systems theory. My goal is to work together as a team to individualize treatment and help you meet your goals. Take care, Susan

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Margaret Reul

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

Thank you for taking the time to invest in your mental health. In today's world of ever-increasing stressors, it is more important than ever to take care of our bodies and minds. The therapeutic process can be a wonderful tool whether you are in crisis, or looking for answers and meaning in your life. There has long been stigma surrounding taking care of your mental health and I am glad that those barriers are beginning to fade away as more people become aware of the benefits therapy can provide. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worked practicing in the state of California (License Number: LCSW75171). I earned my Bachelor's Degree at UC Santa Barbara and then went on to earn my Masters in Social Work Degree at Cal State Los Angeles. I have an extensive background in helping individuals and families deal with a variety of mental health and medical concerns. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, or problems with friends, family or work, there is no problem too big or too small to discuss in therapy. I have experience helping those with Serious Mental Illness as well as those looking for a mental health tune-up. I also have experience helping first-responders, particularly in dealing with the struggles of facing COVID-19 head on. I want to help you discover what goals you want to set for yourself, and then help you achieve those goals. You are in the driver's seat to guide your life to a place that brings you self-awareness, peace and happiness. I prefer a Solution-Focused therapeutic approach that helps you quickly start the path to feeling relief from your specific stressors. I look forward to beginning our journey together. I specialize in evening and weekend sessions to help you fit therapy into your busy life.

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Troika Jackson-Grillo

Offering therapy in California
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients 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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Te'Ha Demps

Offering therapy in California
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
6 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of North Carolina with experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, and career challenges. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client centered, and narrative counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a 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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Monica Garnett

Offering therapy in California
License: LCPC,LAADC,CADTP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

Hi I’m Monica, Are you feeling stuck, unsettled and ready to regain some normalcy in your life? Are you hoping to become the best version of yourself? Allow me to assist you in becoming more self-aware and regaining more control of your life. I am a licensed counselor for the state of Illinois and a certified substance abuse counselor for California. My experiences have allowed me to work with diverse clientele ranging from children and adolescents to adults with varying needs. My therapeutic style is collaborative and engaging and I assist you in learning to live an enriched and full life. I have fifteen years’ experience working with individuals who needed help with emotional regulation, developing coping strategies, struggling with alcohol, drug or behavioral addictions as well as with individuals or couples needing to enhance their communication skills. I also have several years of experience working with veterans. I offer phone and video sessions for clients who are distancing or quarantined. I have immediate openings for new clients. Allow me to assist you in taking the next step towards living a more fulfilled life!

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Sheila Owens

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have been fortunate in being able to provide 30 additional years in the mental health field as a case manager/case coordinator. I am a community activist who aids in decreasing the sigma of mental health issues. I have an extensive background in helping clients with stress, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, motivation, and self-esteem, and confidence issues. I have experience working with an array of adult mental health diagnoses and treating individuals who are experiencing 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 change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Melissa Mendez

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Indiana. I received a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Purdue University and a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Christian Theological Seminary. I have had the opportunity to work in and gain knowledge from a diverse collection of settings that include elementary, middle and high school, hospital chaplaincy department, private practice and private agency working with families in the child welfare system. Each of these settings have provided me with hands on experience working with individuals and families in crisis, as well as those who are faced with navigating some of life’s challenges such as divorce, loss, and addiction. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I love a systems approach, understanding that we do not exist in a vacuum, but rather are part of larger systems. I take a non-judgmental, warm approach to therapy and I believe in tailoring my therapy towards my clients individual needs. Together we will establish goals and design a path towards a healthier way of being. I draw from a multitude of therapeutic techniques that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solutions Focused Therapy. The first step towards seeking help is often the most difficult. I am excited that you are here and look forward to taking this journey along side you.

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Dr. Todd McGinnis

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
17 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, bipolar disorder, & depression. 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. "Take back your mind"

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Lisa Holder

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California specializing in trauma, and have worked extensively with clients for several years who are dealing with these types of struggles. Additionally, I have experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression and relationship issues. I also have experience working with clients who are coping with various types of 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 sign up for therapy can take courage, and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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