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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Susan Garner

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
20 years of experience

I bring many years of clinical experience, my personal life experiences, and professional training to my work with clients. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 18 years, working with clients from 17-70+ years of age, including individuals, families, couples (including same sex couples), and those from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The common denominator in my work with every client is the depth of my commitment to their healing and personal growth. Together we will define your objectives and goals. The kinds of problems that each individual brings into therapy are often complicated and not usually neatly categorized. Human beings are complex and though many areas of functioning may be impacted, the source of these often result from a core emotional or psychological injury, or a traumatic event. Sometimes dysfunctional family of origin dynamics have adversely impacted our ability to have healthy, high functioning relationships and we need to learn new skills. For some, therapy can help to improve performance with personal goals. Whatever it is that you are seeking help with, it is well understood that the first step toward changing anything is in identifying the problem. Whatever your objectives my be (even when these are not clearly identified or understood), I am confident that I can help you gain clarity and work towards achieving whatever your goals may be. Therapy has been described as the "talking" cure and sometimes the very act of talking or sharing of experience and feelings with an experienced professional can help...help in the moment to not feel so alone or crazy, and in the long run, to have the clarity, confidence and self-esteem to create a life by design. Studies have shown that there are two important factors in determining the success of therapy: 1) the client's perception of the therapists skills and knowledge and 2) the relationship, or therapeutic alliance, between therapist and client. I offer you my respect, compassion and acceptance. I have studied a variety therapy disciplines and blend traditions from the East (mindfulness, insight-oriented therapy) and West (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-CBT), somatic body-mind centered, and psychodynamic approaches to effectively address individual needs and differences. I have successfully worked with: relationships, marital problems, self-esteem, communication skills, healthy boundaries, self-esteem and self-confidence, mood disorders, co-dependency, unresolved traumas, anxiety, changing counter-productive patterns, life transitions including loss of loved ones, divorce, blended families.

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Andrea Perez Portillo

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Family conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker licensed in California with experience working with immigrant, Communities of Color, and LGBTQIA2S+ folks across the lifespan. I have predominantly worked with youth and families and operate from a person-in-environment, relational and liberatory approaches that recognize the impact systems of oppression, historical, and personal trauma have on marginalized communities. My communication style is collaborative and empathetic. My role is to create a safe space for exploration and affirmation of your life and experiences therein and build upon your strengths. Together we can identify goals and supportive strategies along the way to help you live your best life. I look forward to working with you!

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Mallerie Mulhall

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
14 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. I received my MSW in Clinical Social Work from NYU in 2010 and my BS in Psychology from the University of Florida in 2008. Over the years, I have worked with many different populations in a variety of settings, ranging from private practice, substance abuse treatment centers to schools. I specialize in working with clients dealing with obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety and panic, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, life transitions, substance abuse related difficulties, self-esteem problems, attachment-related issues, and/or interpersonal relationship difficulties. I am proficient in multiple evidenced-based interventions and I have significant experience working with adolescents, young adults, and families. My counseling approach is empathetic and interactive. I believe strongly in the importance of the therapeutic alliance and rapport between client and therapist. I draw heavily from psychodynamic and relationship-based counseling techniques, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Family Systems, and Motivational Interviewing. Seeking assistance in developing a happier and more fulfilling life takes courage and strength. When you are ready to take that first step, I am here to help and guide you. Looking forward to working with you!

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Amy Carnes

Offering therapy in California
License: MS,LMFT
Relationship issuesGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I know it can be overwhelming to take early steps toward the changes you want in life. Coping with our struggles already takes a huge amount of energy. Choosing a therapist is a big step. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where I can use my professional tools while we work on mental, emotional, and relationship issues. I will provide transparency throughout the process, so you are informed and know what to expect. I am a culturally competent Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of counseling experience. I received my Master of Science in Psychology from California Polytechnic State University. I am currently licensed to practice in California and Wisconsin. My areas of greatest expertise are relationships, grief and other losses/life changes. However, I have worked with clients experiencing a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, low self-esteem, and addiction. I also have had experience working with pre and postnatal issues, including parenting challenges. I consider myself to be primarily a humanistic and cognitive behavioral therapist. However, treatment should be adapted to an individual’s needs and what works best for them. We can work together to figure out what treatment looks like for you. I look forward to meeting you and starting your therapy!

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Cinda Salas

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyDepression
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in a Clinical setting, Medical Social Work, Child Protective Services and a Foster Family Agency. With my vast array of skills, I may have the knowledge to help you in your time of need. My approach is a matter of fact and direct. I feel people may need to hear things their friends are apprehensive to tell them. Additionally, I am an active listener who ensures my clients are heard with respect and dignity. I earned a Master of Social Work degree in 2014 from Loma Linda University - a Christian based program. I am comfortable speaking with others about their religious beliefs and traditions. If you are ready to take a new journey in your life, I would be honored to support you towards your goals.

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Maxwell Sleep-Frankel

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, who has had over a decade experience working with older adults and adults primarily with disabilities, helping them to navigate life transitions and grief/loss. I utilize a person-centered approach infused with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help patients navigate these transitions and losses, as well as other mental health issues and addictions throughout adulthood. I'm also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional II (CCTP-II) and Certified Grief Professional (CGP), and incorporate a trauma and grief informed approach into my work with clients. I have also received a certification in Addiction Treatment in Military & Veteran Culture from the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC), and welcome military members, veterans, their families or anyone struggling with addiction. I received my B.A. from Indiana University in Philosophy and Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Science, my Masters in Social Work at the University of Chicago, and am currently enrolled in a Doctor of Social Work program the University of Alabama. I look forward to helping you grow and reach your goals as part of our work together in therapy.

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Shing Chin (Alice) Ginkens

Offering therapy in California
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Oklahoma since 2005 and have been in this professional work of line since 2002. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, mood disorders & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first step towards change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. From our dialog, I will tailor your treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

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Thomas Cobb

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, sleeping disorders, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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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Rita "Elizabeth" Kovacevich

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional counseling experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, coping with grief and loss and life transitions. I also have extensive experience working with couples to understand their dynamics and improve their relationship in terms of communication, level of closeness, sharing and intimacy. I believe that you are the expert in your own life story and that you inherently have many strengths that can assist you in overcoming life’s challenges. I am here to help you discover and build upon these strengths as well as empower you along your journey. I look forward to meeting you.

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Jonathan Brewer

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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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Alicia Racine Fink

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesEating disordersCoping with life changesADHD
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, eating disorders, coping with life changes, & concentration, memory. I also have experience working with focus (adhd). 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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Cena Hoban

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with 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!

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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