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.
Krista Zabor
Hi, I’m Krista. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California with over 11 years of experience providing counseling and mental health care. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California. In my personal life, I enjoy swimming, yoga, podcasts and time with my kids. In my professional life, I have worked with a broad range of adults in outpatient settings experiencing a wide variety of life challenges including substance abuse, anxiety, depression, trauma and stress. My counseling style is centered on compassion and non-judgement. It would be my privilege to work to build a therapeutic rapport with you and listen deeply to your life concerns. When we confide in a trusted outlet, we can reflect and learn more about ourselves and our relationships and choices-- and hopefully, we can work to improve and adopt new and healthier ones by breaking negative patterns. I tend to favor person-centered and cognitive behavioral approaches to therapy, but I am also open to tailoring my approach to you based on your unique needs and preferences. I also have a lot of experience and training with motivational interviewing. I am also a huge fan of mindfulness exercises and would love to incorporate that into our sessions if you are open to it. I strongly believe everyone could benefit from counseling. We all deserve to live abundant lives and embody our best selves. It shows true courage to reach out and be willing to access our vulnerability. I’m happy you have taken the first step toward new possibilities. I look forward to working with you!
Susan Garner
I bring many years of clinical experience, my personal life experiences, and professional training to my work with clients. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 18 years, working with clients from 17-70+ years of age, including individuals, families, couples (including same sex couples), and those from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The common denominator in my work with every client is the depth of my commitment to their healing and personal growth. Together we will define your objectives and goals. The kinds of problems that each individual brings into therapy are often complicated and not usually neatly categorized. Human beings are complex and though many areas of functioning may be impacted, the source of these often result from a core emotional or psychological injury, or a traumatic event. Sometimes dysfunctional family of origin dynamics have adversely impacted our ability to have healthy, high functioning relationships and we need to learn new skills. For some, therapy can help to improve performance with personal goals. Whatever it is that you are seeking help with, it is well understood that the first step toward changing anything is in identifying the problem. Whatever your objectives my be (even when these are not clearly identified or understood), I am confident that I can help you gain clarity and work towards achieving whatever your goals may be. Therapy has been described as the "talking" cure and sometimes the very act of talking or sharing of experience and feelings with an experienced professional can help...help in the moment to not feel so alone or crazy, and in the long run, to have the clarity, confidence and self-esteem to create a life by design. Studies have shown that there are two important factors in determining the success of therapy: 1) the client's perception of the therapists skills and knowledge and 2) the relationship, or therapeutic alliance, between therapist and client. I offer you my respect, compassion and acceptance. I have studied a variety therapy disciplines and blend traditions from the East (mindfulness, insight-oriented therapy) and West (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-CBT), somatic body-mind centered, and psychodynamic approaches to effectively address individual needs and differences. I have successfully worked with: relationships, marital problems, self-esteem, communication skills, healthy boundaries, self-esteem and self-confidence, mood disorders, co-dependency, unresolved traumas, anxiety, changing counter-productive patterns, life transitions including loss of loved ones, divorce, blended families.
Shannon Amabile
Hi there! I’m Shannon and I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Los Angeles, California. I have been working with creative clients in entertainment since 2015. I have extensive experience supporting the nuanced social and emotional challenges creative professionals face. I aim to help clients navigate the emotional experience of interacting with the “machine” of entertainment and the culture it’s built on and around, so they can cultivate a meaningful and joyful quality of life. I strive to empower clients to process and resolve interpersonal and personal struggles, heal from the pain that echoes from those struggles and prepare clients to feel confident and equipped to meet and overcome future challenges. I like to use solution-oriented models with a focus on behavioral interventions, to hopefully bring clients a sense of relief as soon as possible and help empower them to make the changes they want to make. I'm passionate about working from a curiosity based, non-judgemental stance and feel privileged to provide space for clients to tell their stories and feel heard. My work centers on cultivating hope, promoting self-trust by enabling self-discovery, self-identification and self interpretation as well as improving communication skills and building mindfulness and de-escalation skills in moments of crisis. I like to empower clients to value that they are the expert in their lives and validate their ability to be the agent of change. I have worked in educational, residential, corporate and production related settings as well as in office and virtually. I have experience supporting clients who face depression, anxiety, challenges in romantic relationships, child rearing, parenting issues as well as personal growth and adjustment/transition issues, including grief/loss, long term maintenance and recovery from addiction, past personal and family of origin related trauma and abuse, interpersonal relational struggles in personal life and collaborative career relationships. The modalities I use in psychotherapeutic treatment are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I also utilize Bowen Family Systems, Existential Therapy and Trauma Focused CBT.
Lisa Smith
I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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.
Jerome Hoffman
As a therapist whose been seeing clients for over 20 years in a variety of settings, I feel that I can be helpful in the majority of circumstances you might find yourself in. I tend to work from a Cognitive Behavioral Framework (which basically means to bring one's thoughts, actions and feelings together to challenge problem areas). I believe that providing a place of trust, safety and support is key to doing the hard work. I am also a person of Faith and if this is important to you please let me know. Otherwise, our work together will focus on the problem areas we identify. Trouble areas may include anxiety issues, sadness, loneliness, family dynamics, past traumas and/or abuse, or any other roadblocks preventing you from achieving your goals. I look forward to meeting you and assisting you in finding the solutions that will create a new future.
Raymond Cisneros
I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & 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. 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.
Yangyang Xie
I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, anger management, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.
Brandie Blount-Turner
I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. 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.
Jayci Grisafe
I am licensed in California with 15 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 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.
Susan Epstein
I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
NaTonya Scott
Welcome to Your Therapeutic Journey! Hello and welcome! I'm NaTonya Scott, a Licensed Professional Counselor and Mind Renewal Coach. I have a passion for guiding individuals towards their most effective selves. As a person-centered therapist, I believe in tailoring our therapeutic journey to suit your unique needs. My therapeutic approach is integrative and individualized, blending the empathetic principles of person-centered therapy with a goal-directed focus. I understand that seeking therapy is a personal and courageous step. Rest assured, our sessions are a safe and confidential space where you can express yourself without fear of judgment. I adhere to the highest ethical standards and Christian integrity, ensuring that your concerns are met with respect, sensitivity, and professionalism. I've assisted individuals in working through a variety of challenges, including relationship issues, faith-related, depression, anxiety, and trauma. Clinical Experience I have experience in providing therapy services to individuals and couples across various settings, including agency environments, telehealth, and private practice. This diversity in practice has equipped me with the skills to offer therapy to a wide range of clients. I specialize in employing person-centered, Rational Emotive Behavioral therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) modalities. My approach is versatile, allowing me to tailor interventions according to the unique and evolving needs of each client. If you're ready to embark on this journey of self-discovery and growth, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Remember, You are not alone! Take the first step—reach out, and let's begin this transformative journey together.
Kisha Villa
I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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.
Roslyn Trahan
I am licensed in California with 10+ years of professional work experience. 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.
Michelle Naidenoff
I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. 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. 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.
Michelle Tran
Hi, my name is Michelle Tran and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in California. I have experience working with clients dealing with stress, difficulties adjusting to a life change, anxiety and depressive symptoms. I have a laid-back approach while focusing on strengths and positives in situations along with reframing negative thought processes. I like to have a discussion about the treatment plan that will help support your needs and improve your wellbeing. I will be here to empower you on your journey. PLEASE NOTE: I am unable to take on Kaiser Permanente members even though you may not be using its coverage for this service. This is due to a conflict of interest.
How can therapists in California support you?
Therapists in California 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 California, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for licensed professionals in California 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 does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.
Why are many residents in the state of California working 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 in California, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.
Mental health counselors in California support clients with varying issues, which can include:
- 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
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat featur
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Some commonly asked questions can be found 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.
How do I know if I should get a therapist?
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 in California can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.
Does insurance cover 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 safe?
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.
Popular cities in California
- Los Angeles, CA
- San Diego, CA
- San Jose, CA
- San Francisco, CA
- Fresno, CA
- Sacramento, CA
- Long Beach, CA
- Oakland, CA
- Bakersfield, CA
- Anaheim, CA
- Santa Ana, CA
- Riverside, CA
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