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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Jesse Moon

Offering therapy in California
License: MA, LMFT,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issues
11 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage Family Therapist in California. This includes the treatment of individuals. I have experience as a practicing psychotherapist and Life Coach. I treat anxiety, depression,post traumatic stress, sexuality, marriage/ relationship issues, stress, addictions, self esteem, career issues and a desire to increase your sense of happiness,well being and personal growth. I have expertise in Anger Management.. My approach is a combination of a humanistic strength based approach as well as cognitive behavioral therapy. In addition I am particularly sensitive to the needs of partners and families of those suffering with addictions and Adult Children of Addicts., ACA's. Treating adults whose parents or partners have significant personality disorders Such as narcissism or borderlines I believe that counseling is an interactive process and needs to be tailored to your particular needs.. I provide a warm, safe space for you to talk about your life and receive support and validation You respond at your own timing and schedule. It takes courage to reach out and take the first steps toward change and inner fullfillment. I am here to support and empower you. I will also provide practical suggestions that can aid you in bettering your circumstances . I look forward to working with you!

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Alvin Tan

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Hi, I am a licensed clinical social worker in San Diego, California. My primary background experience is in helping clients to regain/increase control over their mental health, via developing increased insight/understanding of symptoms, identifying and utilizing coping skills, developing positive support systems, and increasing ability to problem-solve/navigate challenges. I have worked with adults in multiple settings, including those experiencing active crisis within acute locked psychiatric care, clients coming into an outpatient clinic for mental health services and counseling/groups, clients utilizing substance use disorder treatment individually and in groups, and adult clients with developmental disabilities in the group home setting. Professionally, I've worked both as direct care staff as well as in management and supervisor roles, and have also mentored undergrad and grad students. I'm looking forward to meeting you and offering you support.

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Autumn Altamirano

Offering therapy in California
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

Hello! My name is Autumn and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 9 years of experience providing therapy services. I have worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings including: private practice, outpatient, and school-based. I work with clients affected by depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, lack of motivation, life transitions, family conflicts, and relationship challenges. I was born and raised in Orange County, California, and currently reside in Nashville, Tennessee. I received an undergraduate degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California. I use a client-centered approach. This means that I begin where you are and view you as the experts on your life. It also means that you determine the direction and depth of therapy. I primarily use evidenced-based techniques, including: cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy. However, based on your needs/presenting problems, I may also incorporate attachment-based therapy and psychodynamic therapy. I would describe my style as warm, real, and supportive. For me, the therapeutic relationship is important. I want you to not only feel comfortable with me but also to trust me. Therapy requires one to be vulnerable, which doesn’t happen if there isn’t a good rapport and therapeutic alliance. Collaboration is also important. Together we will work on establishing goals and steps for you to help overcome your current problems. Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy playing soccer, watching sports, reading, cooking, spending time with my husband and children, and traveling to new places. Thank you for taking the time to learn about me! I look forward to helping you in any way I can!

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Elizabeth Renteria

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 22752,OR LCSW 5306
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
3 years of experience

Hello, My name is Elizabeth Renteria and I am a licensed clinical social worker in both the states of California and Oregon. I received my master's in Social Work from the University of Washington in Seattle and also have a Master's in Counseling from the University of La Verne. I have several years of experience treating both individuals and families in a variety of issues including depression, anxiety and trauma and other life stressors. I use a client centered approach that focuses on practical solutions to help you cultivate well-being and improve your life. I combine strength based and culturally relevant practices along with other cognitive based therapies to help you in treatment. I believe that creating a warm, collaborative and safe therapeutic relationship is key for achieving best results. I look forward to meeting you and discussing how together we promote healing in your life.

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Rosa Ogas

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in a variety of social work settings. I am experienced and trained to work within multicultural communities, facilitating problem resolution, providing behavioral intervention services, and working with all age groups. I am bicultural and speak fluent Spanish. I have experience and understanding of issues related to acculturation, acculturation guilt, and family systems issues. I have experience providing therapy using cognitive behavioral therapy, client centered therapy and trauma focused therapy dialectical behavioral therapy as well as mindfulness therapy and interventions to support clients. I have supported clients with a variety of issues related to anxiety, depression, self-injurious behaviors, post traumatic stress disorder, parenting and impulse control issues. I provide a strength based approach to therapy and am able to support clients to build and develop tools to help them better cope with the issues that bring them to therapy.

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Karen Winberry

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
26 years of experience

I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Counselor. I have 25 years of experience in the mental health profession. I work with children (ages 7 and up), adolescents, adults, and older adults on issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, anger management, substance abuse, parenting, domestic violence, and other relationship issues. I also have extensive experience working with clients with serious mental illness, such as Bipolar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Schizoaffective Disorders. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, and I am able to adapt to individual client needs. I work with culturally and ethnically diverse populations. I help my clients to develop healthy skills to cope with life stressors. If you feel you could use some help in navigating life's many challenges, need someone who will listen to you without judging, and someone to provide honest and constructive feedback, then reach out to me and we can take steps toward a more fulfilling and joyful life.

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Lindsey Eggers

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
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, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with 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. 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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Kristene Luna

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 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 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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Dr. Candace Bendele

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, depression, parenting issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes and life transitions. 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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Desiree Vargas

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. 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. Important Note: I do not provide letters, forms, or other documentation for clients for legal, medical, or employment purposes; including emotional support animal requests, disability accommodations, or court related matters. My focus is on providing therapy and support to address your emotional and mental health needs. Unfortunately, if you have Kaiser Permanente as a health insurance, I am unable to meet 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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