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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Bonnie Fagan

Offering therapy in California
License: MS, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

If you are feeling stuck in your relationship, career, family role, or struggling with a life transition and are unsure of how to move forward, I can help. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where we can work together to explore your emotions, experiences, and challenges and help you on your journey toward finding personal fulfillment. I use a person centered approach where I integrate Strengths Based, Mindfulness, and CBT techniques that are tailored to your specific needs. I have experience working with individuals and families from a range of backgrounds having trouble adjusting to challenges. I specialize in helping individuals manage life & relationship challenges, working with trauma survivors to overcome experiences, addressing issues related to maternal wellness, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, self-esteem, and coaching parents on managing difficult behaviors in young children. I also enjoy working with college students and young adults as they navigate their journeys in relationships and finding their place in their careers. I look forward to getting to know you and working together to support your individual needs.

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Dr. Henry Venter

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

I’m a psychologist with more than 25 years of experience. I love counseling and working with individuals and couples. The joy of discovering a solution for a problem with someone and see them grow and thrive excites me. No one is perfect and at times, we all need help. It is a mistake trying to solve problems alone. I see counseling as the undiscovered gem in human functioning – far too many people miss the opportunity of working with a trained and skilled counselor to aid them on the journey to figure out a plan through their challenge. I’m glad you are considering this option and there is a reason that you are reading my profile. I would love working with you.

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Elizabeth Owens

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

I am a family and marriage counselor licensed in California with over 10 years of experience working as a psychotherapist both privately and in the clinic setting. I have had the honor of working with clients from children to senior adults, couples and groups. In this experience, I have worked with clients who have had visits of depression; anxiety; trauma; family issues; religious crisis; parenting challenges and self-harm thoughts. I have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). My preferred approaches include: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Person Centered, Psychodynamic and Family Therapy. Although I do not provide pastoral counseling, I assist clients whom are Christian with issues that may challenge their faith. I pray with clients (at their request) and provide Biblical scriptures as a foundation. My counseling style is warm and interactive and I may challenge clients at times where we both agree may be barriers to moving forward. I do not give advice to clients, but assist them in finding what works for them. Psychotherapy involves hard work, being true to yourself and awareness that real change is done outside of the therapeutic relationship. "Anything you work hard for, you appreciate more." I look forward to working with you!

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Saundra Green

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Family conflictsIntimacy-related issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
16 years of experience

I am a Marriage and Family therapist (MFT) licensed in California with over 16 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and more recently integrating life coaching. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges. An area that I have come to also specialize in is working with singles who have grown very discouraged with online dating apps and who are navigating the difficulties of social media in relationships. I really enjoy this area so if that is an issue for you please don't hesitate to reach out. I am very proud of the book that I wrote early on in the pandemic. If you are feeling stuck, and lacking clarity, you can find my best selling book as a resource. Clarity, 7 Steps From Getting Unstuck to Taking Action. USA Marketplace https://www.amazon.com/dp/B093YHFZJC My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating each with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. 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 towards 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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Agustin Vieyra Ornelas

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
17 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, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that life throws your way. It takes bravery to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards that vision of your life. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Jude Patton

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSleeping disordersDepressionADHD
43 years of experience

I am an older out/open/proud transgender man. I have expertise and extensive experience in serving transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming clients. I prefer to serve my own community members but do not discriminate toward others. I am licensed as a therapist in Washington state, as both a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and as a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), with 43 years of professional counseling experience. My professional background also includes having worked as a Psychiatric Physician Associate for 41 years. Before my career in human medicine and mental health, I worked for 20+ years as a Veterinary Medical Assistant and understand the value of animal companions and of the natural environment in supporting healthy living. I have experience in treating clients who have ADHD, an autism spectrum disorder, chronic pain/chronic illness and/or end-of-life concerns, sleeping disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and depression. I believe that you are the expert on your own story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Making the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started. I am looking forward to working with you to find solutions to reach your goals in therapy.

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Ingrid Vicencio

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepression
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, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & eating disorders. 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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Afsheen Izadi

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteem
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, & relationship issues. 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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Carrie Catterson-Fitzmaurice

Offering therapy in California
License: LSCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
14 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker in Kansas with over 10 years of experience. I have experience working with children and families in their homes on a multitude of challenges such as substance abuse, parenting issues, stress management, organizational issues, ADHD, and relationship problems. I also have experience working with the geriatric population with issues such as adjustment, loss of independence, depression and anxiety. My clinical approach is a combined approach of mostly solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapies. I present a relaxed environment and encourage humor and honesty. It is my goal to treat all my clients respectfully and have an open mind to all lifestyles and beliefs. I encourage my clients to be self aware and goal oriented.

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Sharon Bowen

Offering therapy in California
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has been in the field of social work for over 10 years. In my career, I have worked with families and children as an advocate, case manager, and therapist. I know that therapy can be a scary step but I am here to help in your journey. I am here to help no matter where you are in the therapeutic process - whether this is your first time or you've seen others in the past. We will work on this journey together and move forward at your pace. Therapy can bring out all sorts of feelings, but we will get through them as they arise. My goal is to provide a safe and open environment for you to feel free to address anything that is on your mind. I strive to be nonjudgmental, caring, and compassionate. I believe the therapeutic relationship requires trust on both your end and mine. I look forward to working with you!!

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Olivia Cook

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger management
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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. I look forward to meeting you.

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De-Ann Lott

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping 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, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I also work with body image, bariatric patients for pre- and post surgery treatment. 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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Abigail Gonzalez

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am a Bilingual(Spanish)-Bicultural Marriage and Family Therapist. I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Elba Olmedo

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. I also have experience working in 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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Trevor Buckley

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression and relationships. 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.

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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