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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Mark Daniels

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
43 years of experience

Hello, my name is Mark A. Daniels, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have over 45 years of direct clinical experience in the public and private sector. I have worked with consumers with a wide range of challenges and concerns that include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, career issues, and anger management. I also have expertise working with culturally diverse consumers, and consumers who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. I have also worked extensively with consumers within the forensic psychiatric arena including state prisons, county jails, and state hospitals. My therapeutic interventions are supportive, interactive, validating, and nonjudgmental. I embrace treating everyone with respect, compassion and with unconditional positive regard. My approach combines cognitive behavioral interventions, humanistic, mindfulness, and psychosocial interventions. I will tailor our dialogue, and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Everyone has value and are important in life's journey, sometimes we need to share each other's strength to make it from Monday to Tuesday. Congratulations on your decision to seek empowerment and to enhance your current emotional being. I appreciate your courage and look forward to assisting you on this journey. Together we will work to access your inner strength, wisdom and talent to help you become stronger and better than ever before. You don't have to do this alone. Sincerely, Mark A. Daniels, LCSW

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Dr. Kathy Greathouse

Offering therapy in California
License: PhD,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
8 years of experience

Dispell YOUR Myths around living well. My Sessions appeal to anyone seeking support for better mental, emotional and spiritual health. I pair traditional methods of therapeutic care with ancient yogic healing modalities to tailor a program of healing suited to your individual needs. Sessions may be composed with a unique blend of psychotherapy, meditation, sound therapy, yoga, and breathwork. I help people release trauma and negative emotions from the body and inspire them to aspire to their best selves. Generally, Providing effective physical, emotional, and informational support is what being a therapist means to me. I embrace intuitive, evidence-based therapeutic care to give consistent, continuous reassurance, comfort, encouragement and respect during life challenges, based on individual circumstances and preferences. People are so complex and their needs so unique, that the texture of my support, language and comfort measures are different with every person. My goal is that every client feels nurtured and supported on their path to healing.

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Julie Knight

Offering therapy in California
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Hi, I am a practicing Licensed Professional Counselor for the past 25 years and have over 35 years working in the mental health field. My experience ranges from working on inpatient psychiatric units and in crisis response programs, to providing individual and family therapy. My therapeutic approach is always person centered, strengths based and goal oriented. Whether you are having a crisis in your life, have suffered a loss, are adjusting to changing situations in your life, or are just wanting to be happier and feel better about yourself, I can help you. I have a passion for helping the LBGTQ community, be that helping someone through the coming out process, improve family relationships and develop healthy confidence and self-esteem in a culture that is still sometimes condemning and unsupportive. I like to help family members of LGBTQ folks better understand and improve ways of showing loving support and overcoming any obstacles to being supportive. Another population that I have a passion for helping is Highly Sensitive People. Many people get diagnosed with major mental illnesses due to their symptoms of having difficulty coping with a stressful and chaotic world. Highly Sensitive people, and introverts, are often misunderstood and criticized for being themselves and end up feeling like something is wrong with them, when, in fact, they may just have traits that need to be understood, honored and respected. Our culture tends to value extroversion and toughness, and yet sensitives and introverts are some of the most creative, artistic, kind and empathetic people on the planet. Sensitivity and introversion are not problems or things to change, explain or defend. They are wonderful traits that you can understand better and therefore develop greater confidence and ways of communicating your needs and feelings. If you wonder if you are a Highly Hi Sensitive person, Google search Highly Sensitive Person self test and check out Elaine Aron’s work online. I enjoy and have experience working with folks who are neurodivergent and am part of the neurodivergent movement which emphasizes the person and how you may have a differently functioning brain, rather than focusing on clinical diagnoses that pathologize differently functioning brains. I like to help people develop deeper insights and understanding of their unique personality, and using such insight to improve communication, relationships and life choices. I frequently work with people on knowing and understanding their personality typology (based on Carl Jung’s work and Myers Briggs test) and will link you to free online tests to get the information you need to better understand yourself and how you fit with other personality types. This kind of insight therapy will help you throughout your life rather than just focusing on addressing the issues of today. If you can relate to any of this information, I may be a great therapy fit for you and would love to work with you. -Julie

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Deborah Osborn

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issues
25 years of experience

Thankyou for reading my profile. It is difficult to convey my work in few paragraphs. I have been counseling since 1998 when I completed my first master's degree in Counseling. I later earned a second masters in Clinical Social Work. I understand that change is not easy and I know that no single approach to change works for everyone. With this in mind, I am willing to draw upon a number of modalities. I use techniques from mindfulness and gratitude along with traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Reality Therapy to develop a plan of growth. I am always in partnership, working alongside the client and family as we move towards health. I believe that the client is the authority or expert with regard to their goals and needs. I follow the client's lead in developing those goals while offering my expertise in creating a successful plan. I also believe that focusing on a whole person strength-based relationship contributes to a solid base of trust and acceptance. With this solid therapeutic relationship established, the client can feel safe to be authentic and vulnerable.

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Tanya Hill

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
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. 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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Shutondia Tapp

Offering therapy in California
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoaching
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma, abuse, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. 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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Patrick Jones

Offering therapy in California
License: LCMHC,LCAS,CVS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersDepression
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California and North Carolina with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & sleeping disorders. 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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Graciela Dunn

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
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, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Martina Njoku

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I’m a licensed therapist in California with seven years of experience helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. My passion lies in supporting clients as they work through stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, struggles with motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and depression. I also specialize in helping individuals cope with significant life changes and transitions. In our work together, my priority is to create a warm, open, and safe environment where you can express yourself freely without fear of judgment. I firmly believe that every person has the strength within them to heal, grow, and thrive. My role is to walk alongside you, offering tools, insights, and support as you unlock that potential. Deciding to seek therapy is a brave and empowering step. It shows a willingness to prioritize your well-being and embrace personal growth. If you’re here, it means you’re already taking that first, courageous step toward change, and for that, I deeply commend you. Remember, it’s okay to feel uncertain or even nervous about this process it’s all part of the journey. Together, we can work to address your challenges, build resilience, and foster a deeper sense of self-worth and confidence. You deserve to feel empowered, valued, and at peace, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. Let’s take this journey toward healing and self-discovery together.

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Lindy Bornstein

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

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have specialized experience supporting clients with improving their body image and relationship with food. My goal as a therapist is to provide a supportive environment to help you build your strengths and reach your goals. With curiosity, warmth, and authenticity, I’ll be with you as we explore issues together. I utilize mindfulness techniques, as well as psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral therapy approaches to help identify core beliefs, improve relationships, and find peace I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges. 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:

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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