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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Lani Stoner
>The brief intro to me, my experience, education and approaches to work with people and how I hope to help you: I’m Lani Bain Stoner, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Details of my experience, education and treatment approach are below, but in a nutshell, I have worked in the mental health (MH) field since the late 1970s, with a broad range of clients, with individuals, couples, families and in groups, I grew up in a family of educators moving frequently as my father worked at different Colleges, and lived overseas during my mid-childhood and early adolescence. I came back to the US for the end of Jr High and completed high school in Virginia. I went to college in Pennsylvania, Washington DC, and completed my BA and MA in So. California. After getting married in 1975 and completing my MA, I moved to a central valley city in CA where I and my husband raised two children with support from their grandparents. We moved to a smaller community in the foothills in 2019 to where our adult children live. At times I’ve had to back off of full-time work in the MH field while being a caregiver for family members, but I’m deeply committed to helping people achieve their treatment goals—reaching for hope for a better quality of life and improved functioning and healthier relationships. My therapy focuses on what are largely brief therapy modalities—though I have worked with people on a longer-term basis, and I use theoretical orientations that lead to an active and directive therapeutic stance when working with clients. I look forward to meeting with you to help start down the path toward hope and healing. >The longer explanation—if you’d like more information about me and my work, is below: My experience: I’m Lani Bain Stoner, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked in the mental health field since 1976 after completion of her MA in Counseling Psychology. I worked in county/agency settings from 1978 to 2006 with children, adults and elderly, with a major focus on work with chronically mentally ill adults starting in 1982. After I retired from public agency work, I began a private practice working with children, adolescents and adults, doing 1:1, couples and family work through to 2016. Due to family needs I stopped all but online volunteer work with the military population, veterans and their loved ones and minimal private practice online up until spring of 2020. At that point I began working with another public MH system, through the summer of 2020, when I returned to online pro bono work with the military population mentioned above, and a small online private practice. My education: After getting my MA in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University in 1976, and completing classwork for a Certificate in Gerontology from Sacramento State University om the late 70s, I’ve dedicated time and energy to gain training and understanding of major mental illnesses, as well as those with disabling/problematic or chronic/intrusive symptoms, working to understand and respond to the difficulties that first responders and military have, for work with those who have LGBTQQIP2SAA identification (LGBTQQIP2SAA stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, queer, intersex, pansexual, two-spirit (2S), androgynous and asexual) and want to have treatment in a safe therapeutic relationship. I continually work to be ready to help those who are struggling in difficult life circumstances, and couple relationships or with parenting concerns, and with people who have chronic pain and physical concerns or emotional difficulties, or who have difficulties with a history of trauma (including from major traumatizing events or circumstances) or of abuse. I am trained and experienced in CIS—a structured way of working with people who have had traumatic events in their work environment or school settings. More detail about my treatment approach: As mentioned above, my work with people is active and directive. My primary treatment approach in my work with people is Cognitive/behavioral, focusing on the interplay between thoughts, feelings and actions and how to make changes in key areas that can improve functioning in life and relationships. I also utilize concepts and tools from multiple treatment orientations—Narrative Therapy, Strength Based Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, as well as Client Centered, Mindfulness and Solutioned focused therapies, and draw from family systems theories and related family related treatment modalities. A major focus of my work is in the area of symptom management—helping people learn ways to manage response to symptoms in a way that decrease the symptoms’ impact on the person and on their loved ones. I have worked with people of many religious/spiritual orientations and those who are agnostic or atheistic, with people of many and mixed ethnicities and cultures, and dealing with history of impact of their own and family’s immigration to the US when there may be concerns. I continually seek training and keep up with writings on an ongoing basis on all of the above areas of focus to strengthen skills and understanding of these areas of work—being sensitive to all aspects of culture and multigenerational history that could affect their beliefs, focuses and understanding of life and life events and their functioning in life and relationships. I also have a case management approach, clarifying unmet needs and barriers for persons in their lives, and assisting them in gaining help from programs and services in their communities. And more on how I feel that I can help you: I seek to establish a respectful, safe and supportive therapy environment that • helps people take steps toward stability in their emotions and symptoms, their lives, work environments and relationships—helping them to build healthier life and symptom management skills, and communication and relationship skills. • helps people learn stress management, self-care and coping skills especially when there are psychiatric or emotional distress • work with the persons on individualized treatment goals and focuses that may evolve through the treatment process At times people hope through therapy to gain a better understanding of the severity of the symptoms that they may have, and whether they need medications. With work to help them manage their response to symptoms, we can clarify barriers to managing symptoms, and better discern whether they can gain voluntary control of their response to symptoms and can improve their overall quality of life and level of functioning. Not all can fully benefit from learning the skills and understanding for doing this, and the step of supporting the person in seeking psychiatric treatment may need to happen.
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Dr. Foresteen Forbes
Hello and welcome! I am a psychologist licensed in California with over 20 years of experience. I received my BS in Nursing from BIOLA University. I was a Navy Nurse for 31/2 years and served in Saudi Arabia during the Gulf War. I earned my doctorate in psychology from Azusa Pacific University. I worked in a state hospital for 15 years specializing in adults with a history of childhood trauma. I also specialize in relationship issues, parenting problems and personality disorders. My treatment approach consists of Cognitive Behavioral therapy(CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Attachment-based therapy and aims to build or rebuild a trusting, supportive relationship that will help prevent or treat anxiety or depression. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
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Eryn Patchett
I am an independently licensed marriage and family therapist in the state of New Mexico and California. I have been licensed since 2005, and a supervisor for other therapists since 2011. I received my Bachelors in Psychology from the University of New Mexico, and my Masters from California State University Fullerton. I started my career in mental health in 2002 after receiving my Bachelor's and worked as a case manager and behavioral health tech prior to and while obtaining my masters degree. I have worked in a number of diverse number of settings, including outpatient clinics, treatment foster care, and residential treatment and supervised residential treatment centers, group homes and day treatment programs. I've worked with individuals of all ages, families, and adolescents, and most recently seniors. I've specialized in treating those with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, domestic violence, trauma, and those at-risk. During my career, I have worked as a therapist, Clinical Supervisor, Clinical Director, COO and most recently as an Executive Director. All the roles have been extremely rewarding but none more than working 1:1 with individuals seeking out therapy. Currently, I am focusing on those with adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, parenting support, relational issues, and trauma. I work diligently as your partner to tailor therapy to meet your individual needs. Therapy is designed to meet you where you are. You'll be heavily involved in developing the therapy goals and I'll tailor my approach to meet your needs. My goal is to allow you to reach your personal, family, and professional goals. We'll identify your strengths and build upon them to meet your identified needs to work towards you becoming the best version of yourself. I look forward to working with you on your journey! Specific therapeutic interventions include: CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy) Psychodynamic Therapy Talk Therapy Strength Based Narrative Therapy
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Yonna Swingholm
I would like to give you a brief description of myself as a therapist and the nature of the therapy that I provide. It is also my intent to help you understand the therapeutic relationship so that you might fully understand the services you will be receiving. I have a master’s degree in Social Work from Walla Walla University. I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist in Washington, California, North Carolina, and New Mexico. I have 25 years of experience as a psychotherapist, and have trained in several treatment modalities. I work from an integrative perspective, emphasizing the therapeutic relationship and cognitive-behavioral techniques. My approach involves getting a clear sense of my clients’ main goals, and then matching therapeutic techniques to best fit these goals. Most importantly, I always work with you to figure out what approach you’ll respond to best and what makes the most sense specifically for you. I have worked extensively with the military and the special operations community. I have also lived and worked with many Native Tribes throughout North America. I am a certified yoga/meditation instructor, as well as a trainer on the seminar circuit for the integration of Holistic Treatment in Healthcare. Most importantly though, I believe in humanity’s natural gravitation towards healing and growth.
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Alia Smith
I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients of all ages and walk of life. I have assisted clients in their journey with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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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Paul Knight
I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, bipolar disorder, & depression. I also have experience working with 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. 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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Gregory Buttner
I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in supporting clients with addictions, trauma, abuse, grief and loss issues, depression, anxiety and family system issues. I believe that you are the author of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage a quality that the therapeutic process unlocks with perseverance. I am here to support you in that process.
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Melinda Dauer
I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & parenting issues. 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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Stephanie Lane
I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
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Cheryl Gully
I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
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.
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