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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Alyssa Eisman

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Welcome and thank you for visiting my BetterHelp profile! Seeking therapy takes a great deal of courage and I commend you for exploring therapy as a tool for self-exploration and growth. Many people find that building a supportive and collaborative relationship with their therapist contributes to the overall effectiveness and success of therapy. I strive to offer a safe and non-judgmental environment with a commitment to placing the highest priority on your care. We will work together to identify and address your concerns in order to foster meaningful change in your life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of California with over 12 years of clinical experience in both the mental health and addiction fields. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults struggling with issues and symptoms related to depression, anxiety, body image, self-esteem, social obstacles, substance abuse, and family conflict. ​I earned my undergraduate degree from University of California San Diego where I majored in Music Humanities and minored in Sociology. I continued my education at University of Southern California and earned my master's degree in Social Work. I have experience providing treatment in a variety of settings, including school-based individual and group therapy services for elementary, middle and high school students, domestic violence shelter services, outpatient substance abuse services, and in-home services for families of children with special needs. I utilize a cognitive-behavioral approach with a strengths-based and solution-focused perspective and am certified in motivational interviewing (MI) and problem solving therapy (PST). That being said, I recognize that not all therapeutic styles work for every individual. I strive to find a style and approach that best fits each person I work with. I am also a practicing musician and some people find utilizing music to be an effective therapeutic approach. Music provides avenues for communication that can be helpful to those who find it difficult expressing themselves in words and can provide a safe outlet for expression of feelings. I find it incredibly fulfilling to help support individuals who are looking to be the best version of themselves and would love to connect with you to start working together! Please read below regarding my current availability for live sessions and messaging and feel free to contact me to set up an appointment that works best with your schedule. I look forward to hearing from you! Live sessions (video, phone, chat): Live sessions are up to 45 minutes and can be held through video, phone, or live chat. I always try to keep my calendar up to date with availability for live sessions. To schedule an appointment, please go to my scheduling tab and you can book the time slot that fits best for you. There are certain weeks where I will have more or less availability, depending on client needs. Feel free to message me to see if additional time slots are available. I will always do my best to accommodate scheduling. ** Please note: live sessions are not required! I offer live sessions for clients that would like to utilize different modalities. However, clients are free to message me through the chatroom feature 24/7. The chatroom is completely confidential and secure. I generally check messages between 8:00am-5:00pm, Monday through Friday, and always do my best to respond to messages within 24 hours. However, I do take weekends and holidays off, so please expect slower responses during that time.

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Betty Gutman

Offering therapy in California
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
38 years of experience

Welcome.. I am an LCSW with licenses in CA, MI, Mt. I moved to Ventura in 2017 closing my private practice in Helena, Mt. I have 25+ years of experience. providing therapy for adults with depression, anxiety, loss and relationship difficulties. I offer therapy to adults of all ages, stages and gender diversity. I have a compassionate interactive style working with my clients as partners in their healing journey. I have certified training in couples therapy, EMDR, EFT, and CBT. I often use visualization and mindfulness to create a safe and calm space for clients. Exercises to develop coping strategies and alleviate negative thinking are also methods I use drawing on the science of neuropsychology. I have extensive experience providing counseling for LGBTQ clients in individual and couple counseling. The challenges can be unique in negotiating acceptance and normalizing your experiences. while a person can feel better after a good talk with a friend or family member, talking with a trained professional helps alleviate emotional distress by learning better ways of coping, resolving past issues and improving communication. I offer you an opportunity to face your difficulties constructively and confidentially, freeing you to be the best you and enjoy all the good things your life can have to offer. " When you are lonely or int he darkness allow me to help you to find the astonishing light of your own being" (Hafiz) I look forward to working with you.

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Dr. Lynor Jackson

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

I have formal education and life experiences in navigating health care, educational and juvenile justice systems. I have approximately 30 years of experience supporting people with crisis intervention, depression, emotional and physical abuse, grief, loss and anxiety. I have collaborated with educational and probation officers in providing support to enhance change in behaviors to move individuals towards navigating life. The therapy I use is cognitive behavior therapy, supportive and interactive and compassion. I believe in empowering and supporting change for the positive. I look forward to assisting people in coping with life in challenging times.

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Dr. Kathleen Ayers

Offering therapy in California
License: PsyD
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
32 years of experience

I am a clinical psychologist, licensed in California since 2001. I have extensive experience in helping people who have chronic pain and other chronic medical conditions. I use a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy. I am also certified in CBT for insomnia. I am interested in the role that nutrition and diet play in health and have certifications in this area (though I am not a dietitian or nutritionist). I enjoy working with individuals and groups. While many people think of CBT and being matter-of-fact and rooted only in the present, it is much more than that, allowing for exploration of past issues in a safe environment while working on present concerns and issues. It does often include homework, and I do give homework assignments. My many years of experience have taught me that I make a living from others' misfortunates, accidents, and tragedies. This realization makes me caring and compassionate. All too often, those with chronic pain and chronic medical conditions feel that they are not believed when they report their physical problems and pain levels. My goal is to provide a safe, caring , and accepting environment for people to discuss their concerns. I have recently developed an interest in also providing help to people who have been traumatized by paranormal experiences.

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Dr. Maureen O'Shea

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

I am a licensed California psychologist with more than 30 years of professional experience. I work to help clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & coping with life changes. I attempt 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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Juho Kim

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
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, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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.

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Pamela Gerhard-Johnson

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist in California with 21 years of professional work experience. My areas of expertise include relationship issues, family conflicts, codependency, women's issues, addiction, body images issues, mood disorders and couples therapy. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our sessions 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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Helen Sprague

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist; I offer compassionate support on your path to personal growth and fulfillment. With over a decade of experience, I blend somatic and transpersonal psychology to unite mind, body, and spirit. My Approach • Nurturing yet assertive, creating a safe space for vulnerability and insight • Solutions-oriented, helping you overcome obstacles and process complex emotions • Individualized support tailored to your unique circumstances What Sets Me Apart • Expertise in transforming restrictive self-narratives • Integration of scientific techniques with holistic healing • Commitment to honoring your inherent wisdom and life experience Whether navigating life changes, healing past wounds, or seeking self-realization, I'm here to guide you toward a more authentic, joyful life. Ready to begin your transformative journey?

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Aimee Semas-Day

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

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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.

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Soraya Avalos

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

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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.

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Lilian Zulewski

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping 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, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & depression. I also have experience working with 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. 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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Mercedes Martinez-Hannon

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
3 years of experience

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California with over 3 years of experience working with teens and adults. I have additional training as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP). My focus is helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, and grief & loss. I believe that when someone receives compassionate and attuned witnessing, their innate ability to heal and transform is possible.

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.

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