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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Amanda Garrick

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
17 years of experience

Hello I'm Amanda and I am very excited about this opportunity to connect with you through Better Help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of work experience in the field of mental health and social services. I received my Bachelor of Science in Human Development with an emphasis in Applied Developmental Psychology and a Minor in Psychology from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, California. I later received my Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University Long Beach and obtained my LCSW in 2005. I have worked primarily in Los Angeles County provided treatment to individuals experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma related disorders, substance use disorders, and severe, persistent mental illnesses. I am very passionate about my work and feel it is essential that clients feel accepted and supported during the therapeutic process. I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy , Problem Solving Treatment and Mindfulness Therapy and have a great deal of experiencing doing crisis intervention, risk assessment, and empowering others to develop and enhance their coping strategies. I know how difficult it can be for people to seek mental health treatment but believe this is the beginning of the healing process and the first step toward self improvement. I am truly looking forward to working with you and supporting you through this journey.

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Andrea Corker

Offering therapy in California
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
7 years of experience

Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California and have been working in counseling for 6 years. I have experience working with individuals, couples, adolescents and in running group therapy, both in an office and on telehealth as well as providing in-home services. I have worked with clients regarding depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, addiction, homelessness, bipolar, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's, dementia and phase of life issues. I have a specialization in spiritual and depth psychology and also draw on many other modalities when working with clients. My approach is to make the treatment fit the client, since no one person is alike and no one treatment approach works for all clients. Some of my preferred modalities to use with clients include: mindfulness, narrative therapy, positive psychology, depth psychology and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) informed treatment and solution focused therapy. I aim to create a warm, safe and supportive environment in which clients can be free to explore themselves and heal. I like to think of the therapy experience as a journey we are taking together in which there is no judgement or criticism. It is my belief that we all have the internal capacity to resolve our problems and I hope therapy can provide the space in which people can discover their innate power, new meaning, and unexpected joy. I was born and raised in Southern California, originally from Santa Monica, CA. I received my undergraduate degree in studio art and art history from California State University Channel Islands and my Masters in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University in Los Angeles, CA. In my free time, I enjoy practicing mindfulness, doing yoga, hiking, reading and doing art. I really look forward to meeting you and working together!

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Brian Olden

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW,ACSW
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
45 years of experience

Greetings, and congratulations on making the decision to improve your life situation. Whether or not you choose to work with me, your choice to obtain therapy assistance for your concerns will have beneficial effects for you and the people close to you. I am a mature professional, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California, with many years of experience. I have worked with individuals of all ages, as well as couples and families. I am diverse in my approach and firmly believe that therapeutic goals must be made in conjunction and agreement with the individual seeking therapy. I lived overseas for a number of years so I am sensitive to cultural differences. I have specialized training in military trauma, sexual trauma as well as with adults with different types of trauma. I am experienced in helping people who are transitioning from one life phase to another: Relationship and family transitions, job/occupational challenges and changes, dealing with chronic pain and illnesses, and the challenges of caretakers for partners or parents. I enjoy working with people who are seeking to meet goals they they have not yet been able to achieve, and to recognize the strengths they possess and to develop strategies to maximize those strengths. I look forward to embarking on this journey with you. You CAN achieve your goals!!

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Marielle Beniquez

Offering therapy in California
License: MS,NCC,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

Hello and Welcome! My name is Marielle Beniquez, I am an NBCC-National Certified Counselor and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of California. I acknowledge that the process of therapy can be very intimidating. It is a challenge to open ourselves up to feel vulnerable. That is why my approach prioritizes helping you feel safe in a non-judgmental, authentic space. I welcome all those who seek healing, understanding, and peace without any regard to race, color, national origin, sex, creed, handicap, or sexual preference. A holistic approach to mental health and wellness is my primary goal. Integrative psychotherapy is fundamental to promote healing on all levels: physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and mental. Having a sound mind, body, and spirit is a paradigm that signifies the wheel of wellness in its continuum, enriching the various aspects of life for optimal growth and a sense of well-being. First, cultivating our spirituality promotes resiliency, equilibrium, and wellness. It provides a moral compass that affects our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. As the Serenity Prayer of St. Francis Assisi goes, “God, give me the courage to change the things I can, peace to accept the things I cannot, and wisdom to know the difference..,” renders faith and renewed strength. Second, faith-based counseling along with various treatment modalities is essential to effective therapeutic prevention and intervention. I support the therapeutic approach which best meets my client’s needs that fosters healing, life-giving grace, hope, peace, and love. Lastly, “There is a source within us that always works to bring things into the light.” ~ John A. Sanford I am a USAF veteran, military spouse, and civilian with over 10 years of experience. Specializing in Depression, Anxiety, Stress/Adjustment Relationship Issues, Military Transition/Lifestyle, Grief and Loss utilizing fact-based clinical interventions to include Cognitive/Behavioral, ACT, Spiritually Informed/Faith-based, and Solution-Focused Brief therapies. I look forward to working with you and become part of your life as a mentor and counselor.

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Elizabeth Tebo

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
18 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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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Jill Katell

Offering therapy in California
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & 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.

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Christi Bell

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
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, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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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Mari Conti

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

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 15 years of clinical work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship and/or family issues. In addition I can assist in increasing motivation, self esteem, and confidence. Using a strength based approach, and a little humor, I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. We will work together to create a 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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Erin Black

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. 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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Ranique Hopkins

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

Ranique Hopkins is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist based in southern California. She combines nurturing support with direct guidance to empower her clients and facilitate their growth and healing. Ranique tailors her mental health services to each individual’s preferences and personal needs. She understands that emotional well-being is crucial, akin to the air we breathe. Ranique does her best to create a safe, non-judgmental, and open environment to aid her client’s in working towards desired outcomes and goals. Ranique uniquely focuses on both the mind and body. She employs cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-informed care, and somatic therapies to promote overall wellness.

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Liana Gibson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Hello, I am licensed in California, Texas and Washington with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Soledad Hess

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
19 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 19 years of professional work experience. I am currently a middle school mental health worker and I have worked at the high school level as well. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I have worked with children and families to provide parenting support and behavior support. I use creative modalities like art, music and writing if my client wants to use this type of therapy. I have worked in a hospice setting and have experience with grief counseling. I have worked with trauma effected individuals as well, and use trauma informed practices. 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!

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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