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.

This is Janet Amaya's avatar and link to their profile

Janet Amaya

Offering therapy in California
License: M.S.W,L.C.S.W
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
13 years of experience

Hello my name is Janet Amaya, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I have been providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents and adults for over 13 years in a community based mental health setting. I have experience working with children 0-5 and their parents, Adolescents struggling with a variety of life stressors, anxiety, depression, school stress, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (Complex Trauma) and parental conflict. I have also worked with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, unresolved trauma and daily life stresses, and life transitions. I received my Bachelor's Degree at UC DAVIS in Human Development & Psychology. I went on to receive a Master's in Social Work from Sacramento, California State University. I have devoted my career to working with underserved communities in a county mental health agency from Acute Psychiatric Patients to Children and their families struggling with a variety of mental health issues and environmental stressors. I am currently shifting gears to be able to help a broader range of people with assistance through the use of telehealth. We are living in uncertain times, with lots of stressors coming at us on TV, social media, peer pressure, financial struggles. Many people are afraid to leave their homes, others are overwhelmed by the pressures 'adulting' brings. The stigma of mental health is still prevalent in our society and many are finding telehealth to be safe alternative into seeking help. If that is you and you are looking for a safe, convenient way to share your struggles and help you find the clarity you need to continue to improve your day to day functioning, I can help. I have an eclectic approach to therapy, which means I will use my skills and experience to help YOU, I don't use a one-way solution based on one particular therapeutic model. I have preference to combing Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy all of which is trauma informed practice. I have a strong Christian faith, which we can use to help in our work together, but if you choose not to, we can go that way too. I believe you have the answers within you and with some objectivity I can help you see it and start the steps towards progress and healing.

This is Bethany Minick's avatar and link to their profile

Bethany Minick

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorder
5 years of experience

Please read before reading below: Please message me first before booking a time slot so that you and I can determine the next best step. Thanks! Hi, and thanks for visiting! My name is Bethany and I am glad to meet you! I was raised in a very eclectic city, thus I have an appreciation for culture, arts, music and outdoor activities! Did I mention I really love food and cooking? I do! I can be described as easy-going, understanding, down to earth and goal-oriented. I find myself constantly thinking about current goals, new goals and old goals. Don’t worry-I also know what it’s like to be kind to yourself when energy isn’t exactly matching goals. We all need a break sometimes! Sometimes we need a break from work, others or even ourselves. My goal is to help you find your path on your journey and help find what uniquely works for you! I have experience working with disadvantaged youth, couples, families, individuals with disabilities, support systems, advocacy, group homes and day programs and helping individuals manage psychiatric symptoms through collaborative efforts. I am able to work with: Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety Feelings of loneliness Grief Trauma Personal processing Interpersonal processing Individuals in caregiving positions Couples and Families My approach to therapy is Person-Centered. I practice Person-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for individuals. I follow Emotion-Focused Therapy and Gottman Theory for couples. I also have a niche for helping find alternative life strategies and helping to structure healthy routines. I am ready to hear your story and join with you on your personal process! *Note: Option for messaging only: If you are interested in having “live messaging only” therapy as an option, I am open to that and we can discuss what that would look like. *Note: You may send messages in between sessions. I check my mail 1-2 times daily and will respond to your message by 6 PM Monday-Friday. *Note: When it is time to schedule and depending on what time you select, I may also ask you to readjust that time up to 15 minutes if I have a client before or after you. This may be done to ensure that you get the proper time that you deserve. I understand that the service provided through BetterHelp is not intended for crisis situations and urgent needs. In a crisis situation, I agree to call 911 or local emergency services, or visit the nearest emergency room. Information shared with my counselor is confidential except in the following circumstances: If I present as a danger to myself or others, mandated reporting of abuse of children or elders, or if I sign a release of information.

This is Meghan Carroll's avatar and link to their profile

Meghan Carroll

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
6 years of experience

I am a Clinical Social Worker, licensed in California, Texas, and Alabama and I have been practicing Social Work for seven years. I currently live in Alabama so I am in Central Time for scheduling purposes. I have worked in various settings, including residential psychiatric treatment facilities, in-home therapy, as well as providing therapy in an office setting and through telehealth services. I have worked with adolescents, adults, couples, families, and the older adult population. I have a large amount of experience working with anxiety, depression (including intense training on post-partum mood disorders), trauma, family conflicts, grief/loss, and parenting issues. My approach to therapy is to first and foremost build a strong and positive therapeutic relationship with my clients. As a therapist, I focus on each person's specific individual needs, meeting the client where they are at in the present moment, and adjusting my style to meet their needs. I am a solution focused, strengths based therapist but I also utilize components of cognitive therapy and trauma-informed therapy as needed. My ultimate purpose as a therapist is to provide positive support and a safe space for someone to open up and process any thoughts, feelings, and emotions that they find would be helpful for them. I look forward to working with you!

This is Jennifer Glace's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Glace

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 7 years of experience in my field, the past two years providing teletherapy. I have worked with clients with a range of concerns including relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, stress, anxiety, and issues surrounding the current pandemic. I believe that therapy should provide a safe place for growth and change. I strive to create a trusting and empathetic environment where I can help guide clients toward understanding and managing the stressors in their lives. My goal is to empower each individual I work with to realize that they have the capacity to create positive change. Finding a therapist you work well with is important in building a positive therapeutic relationship. The therapeutic modalities that I most often use are Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and solutions based therapy, however as my approach is eclectic, we can collaborate to find the therapeutic technique that is the best fit for you. I am looking forward to getting to know you and join with you on this part of your life's journey.

This is Luis Martinez's avatar and link to their profile

Luis Martinez

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

Hello, my name is Luis Martinez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I have been in the Mental Health field for over 5 years and have worked in a variety of settings which has been able to provide me with the experience to better understand my clients. Using a client centered approach together we can decide on an appropriate treatment plan to help you overcome the struggles you are facing and tackle your challenges head-on. My preferred modality is Solution Focused Therapy, which is based on what you are already doing well an to help you realize that your strengths are the answer to your concerns and sometimes you just need help seeing them. Therapy in reality boils down to these few things, you want consistency, structure, and to an extent some predictability in your life. The uncertainty and the day to day stressors have all piled up and you just want to be free of everything getting in your way that's keeping you from your ideal future or perhaps your ideal state of mind. Weird thing is you already have what it takes to achieve your desired outcome, you just need someone to guide that process.

This is Dr. Carol Suter's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Carol Suter

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
34 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. The methods I use include traditional talk therapy, Energy Psychology (EMDR, Tapping, and The Emotion code) as well as Clinical Hypnosis. 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. Because I am semi-retired my available times are limited. Also, I do not work with court cases. I hope you can find what you need. Dr. Carol Suter

This is Tracy Flug's avatar and link to their profile

Tracy Flug

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
23 years of experience

Self care is important and it is time to put YOU first! Working as a team we will address the challenges that you currently face. Just by looking for a new therapist, you have already proven that you have the motivation to change and improve your life. It's time to be seen and heard. You matter! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California with 23 years of experience specializing in the the field of health. I mainly work with adults and seniors. I specialize in treating loss, grief, end-of-life issues, those with traumatic hospitalizations, chronic illnesses, emotional/physical/sexual trauma, and PTSD. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Grief Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. I believe in taking a strengths-based, client centered approach to therapy. My style is to provide a judgment-free space for you with complete honesty, integrity, and transparency on my part. Please feel free reach out to me if it seems like we would be a good fit.

This is Christine Paulsen's avatar and link to their profile

Christine Paulsen

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & 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.

This is Shannon Nelson's avatar and link to their profile

Shannon Nelson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. Most of my professional experience comes from time in school settings supporting children, teens, and young adults with ASD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health needs. 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.

This is Melanie Bien's avatar and link to their profile

Melanie Bien

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, sleeping disorders, & coping with life changes. 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.

This is Dr. Craig Landry's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Craig Landry

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
27 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, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Marco Guillen's avatar and link to their profile

Marco Guillen

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteem
19 years of experience

I am licensed in California. I began working with clients struggling with addictions in 1984 (40 years ago). I have have worked in various settings (Clinics, Hospitals and Schools). I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. My style of therapy includes Solution Focused, Feedback Informed Treatment, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.

This is Emily Courney's avatar and link to their profile

Emily Courney

Offering therapy in California
LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
3 years of experience

Emily Courney is a licensed marriage and family therapist in California with 3 years of clinical experience. Emily has a background in research and academia as well as a specialization in sex therapy. In addition to her training as an LMFT, this specialization means she is equipped to work with issues ranging from severe sexual trauma to gender/sexual orientation issues, as well as common intimacy concerns. During your sessions, you will work with Emily J. Courney, LMFT to increase self-awareness surrounding long-standing patterns in order to nurture congruence between your internal world and outward actions. Emily's approach is influenced primarily by existentialist, psychodynamic, and attachment theories. In other words, she will work through several combined approaches in order to help you identify how your past experiences have shaped the way you interact with the world today. Emily has worked with clients from diverse backgrounds and cultures, as well as families and individuals of all ages. She is experienced in helping her clients through self-esteem issues, identity exploration, intimacy issues, anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, and sexual trauma. Collaboratively, you will work toward goals you set together, celebrating achievements along the way.

This is Bonavy Som-Keo's avatar and link to their profile

Bonavy Som-Keo

Offering therapy in California
Stress, Anxiety
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and 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.

This is Trevor Buckley's avatar and link to their profile

Trevor Buckley

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression and relationships. 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.

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:

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.

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist