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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Jared Maloney

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Hello and welcome. Allow me to share with you a little bit about my experience and how I approach therapy. I have five years of experience working as a therapist with teens, adults, couples and families. Helping people manage their thoughts and emotions in a healthy way that improves their experience in the world. I’ve worked with clients who were worried, anxious, grieving, feeling lost, sad, depressed, struggled with self worth, intrusive thoughts, addiction, relationships and anger management. I’ve also helped coach people on how to reach goals, find what direction they wanted to go in and create a deeper sense of meaning and purpose in their life. I’m always willing to find the style or technique that will be the most helpful for my clients but here are style I use the most: Client centered- letting you guide us to what you feel needs to be addressed and working on that together. Holistic - including all the parts that make you who you are, such as your thoughts, feelings, physical sensations, hopes, spirituality and relationships. Depth Psychology- explores what things mean for you, why you react to things the way you do, what is your unconscious may be saying to you. Psychosynthesis – working with all the parts of your personality healthy way, building personal recourses to improve your life. Solution focused – building self esteem by setting and achieving goals and knowing your self worth. CBT- becoming more aware of your thoughts and what you can do to change them. Some of the techniques I’ve incorporated in the past are journaling, art, guided meditations, dream analysis, mindfulness practices, somatic exercises (I don’t mean going to the gym, but that could be helpful) and role-play. My goal is to help you find your way through whatever it is you’re going through and to develop tools and skills that you can use for the rest of your life. If this sounds like something that would be helpful for you I look forward to hearing from you.

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Dr. Gary Jordan

Offering therapy in California
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
46 years of experience

Life is often difficult and challenging in the best of times. When you face anxiety, stress, depression, and feelings of inadequacy, the pain can be overwhelming. Life changes, relationship issues, family stress, and career challenges can activate deep feelings of confusion, failure, and unloveableness. If life has become too difficult to manage on your own, and you need assistance and support to sort things out, make necessary changes, and discover your innate talents and value, I can help. I have been working with people to confront and grow from the pain in their lives for 42 years. I earned my Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology – Berkeley and am a licensed psychologist in Texas and California. During my career I have worked in community mental health, private practice, inpatient facilities, business corporations, and nursing homes. The settings change and the content of people’s problems vary, but the underlying conflicts that cause psychological and emotional pain do not. Everyone wants to be heard, their issues understood, and to feel valuable and loved. I use a therapeutic approach that integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic principles, and positive emotional support to create a safe space to explore and heal the childhood wounds that make you feel alone and misunderstood by friends, family, spouses, significant others, and the world. Together we will challenge negative self-talk, destructive behaviors, and repetitive patterns that end poorly, cause pain, and reinforce feelings of self-doubt and worthlessness. We will discover new and constructive ways for you to re-frame ingrained beliefs, change painful and self-negating thoughts, and free you from old dysfunctional decisions made long ago that are still impacting your daily life. Therapy is a journey. Sometimes we need a tune-up and sometimes an overhaul. Either way, our work together will help you to discover new strengths and skills you never knew you had, develop constructive and healthy ways to face life’s challenges, and free you to move forward in life with freedom and joy.

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Alexander "Alex" Dannin

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
7 years of experience

Greetings! It’s my passion and pleasure to support individuals who are looking to make meaningful changes in their life. I believe that our natural state is one of health and balance—feeling at peace, worthy, and capable. Life’s negative experiences can temporarily disrupt this state, leading to negative feelings and emotions. We intuitively sense something is off through our 'negative' emotions such as anger, sadness, or fear. I view all feelings as inherently neutral; they are signals indicating whether we are in or out of alignment with our true selves. Emotions don’t exist in isolation—they serve as guides, bringing our attention to what we believe about ourselves and the situations we encounter. My role is to identify the beliefs underlying these emotions and to help you make the necessary changes in thoughts, behaviors, and actions to restore balance and reconnect with your natural state. In terms of modalities, I draw from a range of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Client-Centered Therapy. I’m flexible and adapt my methods to suit each client’s unique needs, rather than fitting clients into a predefined model. I also incorporate principles of Human Design into my practice, using this unique system to provide additional insights into personal strengths, challenges, and life patterns, enhancing the therapeutic process. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in San Diego, California, with eight years of experience. I have worked with diverse populations including active-duty military, first responders, corporate professionals, retirees, young adults, and the homeless. Before transitioning to mental health, I worked in various corporate roles in IT and finance. Following my passion, I changed careers to support others on their journey to well-being.

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Angela Oliver-Comer

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

Hi. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience providing therapy services to individuals and families experiencing depression or anxiety, family stressors, grief and loss or relationship issues. I strive to provide a safe, supportive and compassionate therapeutic environment. Exploring counseling and choosing the right therapist is not always an easy task. At times, we all struggle and the stressors of life can be overwhelming. It is my endeavor to help you successfully navigate the challenges you are facing and provide the skills and techniques to help you reach your goals. Congratulations on making the first step towards personal growth and improving your Mental Health. I look forward to working with you.

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Barbara Hibbits

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

Hello, my name is Barbara A Hibbits. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, License #113585. I began working in the mental health field in Alaska in my early 20’s, working in Special Education transportation, teaching drivers and bus attendants how to interact and care for special needs children. While I was working on my undergraduate degree in psychology, I began working with teenagers with emotional and behavioral needs due to trauma and abuse. Upon moving to California in 2008, I started working in the field of dual diagnosis treatment. I worked in dual diagnosis treatment for over 12 years, working with all types of mental health issues and substance abuse. I have been driven by my passion to fight addiction and to offer people the hope that they can live a healthy and happy life. I am adept at multiple treatment modalities including Experiential Therapy, Equine Therapy, LGBT Therapy, PTSD and trauma, and the Behavioral therapies (CBT, DBT, REBT).

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Dr. Michael Rocco

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
22 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been doing psychotherapy since 1999. I have worked with both individuals and couples, from a NICU setting to hospice:across the life span. My style is warm and interactive, using a variety of methods, whatever it takes to help you achieve your goals. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is probably the best description of my theoretical orientation. Starting therapy is not an easy task, and my goal is to help you weather the storm, and get you to where you want to be. Take a deep breath, give me a call, and let’s get to work!

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Mary Stein

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,'LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
27 years of experience

Welcome, My name is Mary Stein and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling at Phillips Graduate Institute and became licensed in 1999. Throughout my career of over twenty years, I have enjoyed working with individuals, couples and families. In particular, my work includes helping clients who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, addictions, grief and life challenges. In my wide range of experience , I have worked with clients in private practice; in addition, as clinical supervisor in adolescent residential programs, and in a domestic violence agency. HOW I WORK My counseling style is warm, accepting and interactive. I believe in being respectful, kind and providing a safe environment and positive feedback for each client. Together, we will explore what has brought you to the point of seeking treatment. Then, from there we will determine the most effective methods and tools to help bring you to a better place in life. It is important in approaching each therapy with compassion and make every effort to assist clients improve their ability to have healthy and fulfilling lives. I believe it is always a privilege to be a part of another's emotional journey striving towards self-awareness, learning and healing. As a therapist, the fulfillment comes not only in the growth of clients but also in the ripple effect on others in their lives. THERAPY APPROACHES * Humanistic (person centered) approach where a therapeutic relationship is maintained that is accepting, collaborative, authentic and that gives consideration to where an individual is in their life and takes into accounts goals, expectations, and strengths. * Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) usually involves efforts to recognize one's distortions in thinking that are creating problems, gain better understanding of the behavior, learning adaptive ways to manage their feelings and using problem solving skills to cope in more functional ways. * Existential therapy assists clients to find meaning and purpose in their lives. It is designed to help overcome essential issues and embrace one's choices and empowerment. Taking small steps will lend to larger changes and progress. Thank you for the opportunity to work together, Mary Stein

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John Marman

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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 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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Thomas "Tom" Prinz

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefAnger management
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. Prior to having a private practice as a Marriage and Family Therapist for 35 years I was a school psychologist for 5 years. Currently I volunteer to teach a class on addictions and anger management at City Team, Oakland, Ca., a residential program for men. I have been a volunteer at city team for over 4 years. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss, parenting, marriage, domestic violence, anxiety and depression. I have written and published 6 books on personal, parenting and marriage issues. My most recent books are; Changes, one person can make a difference and The first pictorial self help book for men who don’t read. Two other books I have written are: Winning at a Losing Game and The Lost Aspect of Love. I encourage my clients to follow up each session with specific homework that I can provide.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. My wife, Pam, and I have been married for 55 years, we have three adult children and 4 grandchildren.

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Lisa Espinoza

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 16 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. 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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Nicole Ferrari

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional therapy practice. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, & 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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Barbara Wiseman

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship 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 stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, & abuse. I also have experience working with 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Karen Swanson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 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. 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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Zaida Casillas

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, & 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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Aaron Freedman

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have a specialization in Somatic Psychotherapy and will support you with integrating all aspects of your healing. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in a strengths based approach that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. I believe in process based work and we will continually review how our process is unfolding and whether you need more challenge or more support. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here for 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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