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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Michael Tidstrand

Offering therapy in California
License: BA,MA,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
9 years of experience

I specialize in providing compassionate support to individuals navigating a spectrum of mental health challenges. Drawing from both professional training and personal experiences, I understand the complexities of these struggles firsthand. Clients can expect a nonjudgmental and empathetic environment where they can freely express themselves without fear of stigma or shame. My approach is rooted in creating a secure space where clients feel heard and valued. As a licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, I prioritize active listening, curiosity, and reflection. By employing techniques such as mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral therapy, I help clients explore the intricate connections between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. My goal is to empower clients on their journey towards healing and self-discovery. Together, we'll uncover the underlying reasons behind presenting issues, fostering meaningful insights and personal growth. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to support you in your path towards a more fulfilling life.

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Theresa Leal

Offering therapy in California
Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, & 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.

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Paula Fuentes

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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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Charesse Branch

Offering therapy in California
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefAnger management
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have 15 years of Social work experience working with children and families. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting 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.

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Kayla Mulholland

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

Kayla, a licensed clinical social worker, brings extensive expertise in working with refugee and immigrant populations, as well as systems-involved parents and youth. With a background in clinical therapy with foster youth and their parents in CA, women and children in Mexico and recently arrived immigrant families, Kayla is deeply committed to social justice efforts, recognizing the systemic factors impacting mental health outcomes. Her journey began about 12 years ago in the community mental health sector, working with Latino migrant day laborers in San Francisco. Having lived in Spain and Mexico, where she learned Spanish and closely collaborated with asylum-seeking communities, Kayla has firsthand experience fostering resiliency to improve individual outcomes. Specializing in trauma-informed mindfulness-based care for immigrant and refugee populations, Kayla is motivated by witnessing others' growth and supporting them in creating the lives they desire. She cares passionately about personal development and aims to eliminate taboos and stigmas associated with seeking care, especially for vulnerable populations. Kayla has ample experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & depression. She believes that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. She looks forward to working towards your own goals, together!

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Sharmie Silva

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

** 3/1/25 Update: I work part-time for BetterHelp and have limited availability. Due to some upcoming transitions, at this time I am only able to provide short-term therapy (5-8 sessions) to new clients. If you are currently seeking temporary therapy to deal with an isolated challenge or issue, please feel free to book a session with me. If you are looking to continue with the same therapist for more than 8 sessions, I most likely won't be able to accommodate on-going sessions after May, and I would recommend letting BetterHelp know to match you with a different therapist who has more on-going availability. Feel free to message me on this platform if you have any questions or need further clarification. Take good care! ******************************************************* I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience, primarily as a school social worker and school counselor working with teens and their families. I’m excited to also branch out and provide therapy to young adults, adults and couples. I have experience working with a variety of issues; from grief & loss, PTSD, ADHD, depression and anxiety to family conflicts, blended families, separation/divorce and co-parenting, as well as with issues impacting self-esteem, and confidence. I’m excited to work with clients to create an open and safe environment toward better self-expression, understanding & growth!

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Megan Curtis

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Megan and I am a licensed psychotherapist based in California. ***I am currently ONLY available for Live Chat sessions on the BetterHelp platform*** I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in California with a deep passion for psychology and clinical mental health counseling. My journey in this field began with an undergraduate focus on personality psychology, biopsychology, and human sexuality. I then advanced my education with graduate coursework emphasizing general clinical mental health treatment and neuropsychology. As an extremely open-minded individual, I adopt a person-centered approach to therapy. I believe in meeting clients where they are and recognizing that each person is the expert of their own life. My role is to guide and support you through the therapeutic process. I am dedicated to serving each client to the best of my ability, focusing on psychoeducation and utilizing various therapeutic approaches to find the best fit for your needs. One of my core methods is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), an evidence-based treatment recognized for its effectiveness in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and abuse. As a certified CBT practitioner, I help clients identify and change thought patterns that contribute to negative emotions, fostering healing and growth. I understand that finding the right therapist is a personal journey, and trust is essential. I approach each new client with the intention of building that trust and ensuring you feel safe and supported. If I'm not the right fit for you, I will do everything I can to help you find a therapist who is. I look forward to Live Chatting with you soon and supporting your journey toward mental well-being!

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Steven Goings

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteem
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, coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, & relationship issues. I am particularly skilled at working with issues related to diversity and inclusion and various spiritual belief systems. 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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Nadia Grissom

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteem
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, family conflicts, & 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. 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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Jose Legaspi

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in California with over 9 years of experience working in clinical practice. I work with clients who experience a wide range of symptoms and concerns, including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, addiction, parenting problems, relationship issues, and career challenges. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My therapy style is warm, interactive, and solution-focused. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, strengths perspective, and solution-focused therapy. Your treatment plan will be individualized and designed to meet your specific needs. Taking the step to seek professional help is a step in the right direction toward improving your situation. I look forward to collaborate with you to improve how you feel as well as your life circumstances.

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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