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.

This is Shannon Calder's avatar and link to their profile

Shannon Calder

Offering therapy in California
License: M.A.,LMFT
Relationship issuesGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a California licensed therapist and have worked in mental health for 15+ years both in person and online. My experience spans age ranges from children to those past retirement. I have worked with a wide range of issues including those whose familial abuse and trauma needs longer term support to weekly goal setters who need coaching and accountability to move through avoidance and resistance. Because I am genuinely curious about people, my client's experience me as accepting and non judgmental with a sense of humor. My approach combines a humanistic style in a psychodynamic atmosphere with a knowledge of human behavior that informs my support of your unique situation. Your life may not be the way you envisioned it and it seems unclear how you can re-vision your future and narrate your past. Since I was very young I have been fascinated with story. It began with watching and reading stories, creating stories and now I listen to personal stories. Our stories are important to us and they form us in to the people we are. Finding new meaning underneath your understanding of yourself is integral to changing your current internal reality. Self efficacy is an important part of self esteem. Whatever your current issue, you may feel as if you could be more effective in your life and work. You may want to learn how you are seen by others, and how to integrate how you see yourself with other's impressions of you. With your collaboration and best interest in mind, I will challenge you to see things from a different view. I am hopeful this will shift your focus toward your goals. After working in the entertainment industry with creative people and process, I have an awareness of how personalities are structured and the way those personalities work within a whole person and within an organizational structure. Whether we are discussing you as an individual, the culture at large, an organization, or a family, communication is an important part of getting what you need from others. It is a courageous step forward to enlist the help of a therapist and I truly respect how uncomfortable you must feel in your current situation to reach out for help. It is my goal to create a supportive, safe environment for you to explore, discover and move through the material that will guide and help you move on from your current state. I look forward to working with you!

This is Dr. Carol Carrell's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Carol Carrell

Offering therapy in California
License: NMD, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

I have been a counselor for 30 years with experience in treating clients from 18 months to 98 years. As a professor and supervisor I utilize a variety of modalities and believe that each client is special and unique. One approach does not fit all. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, first responders, professionals, dealing with illness and care giver fatigue, chronic pain, trasuma, abuse and addiction. I have worked with children that have faced difficult health challenges that have not only affected them but their family as well. In addition I have worked with adolescents in the juvenile justice system, learning disabilities, suicidality, LGBTQI issues, trauma and abuse. It is important to establish an atmosphere of trust and safety where adolescents can express themselves and feel heard and accepted. When working with couples it is important to establish an atmosphere that is safe to explore the family issues. I work with couples that have chronic medical issues that have caused stress and communication problems. It is important to address the caregiver fatigue aspect in chronic medical issues. In addition, is important to identify and strengths that each brings to the relationship and how to communicate effectively. Communication is a key element in being able to set goals and move forward in their relationship. I have worked with LGBTQI clients in their process of coming out to their family and community. Therapy is a gift that you give yourself. I look forward to working with you to work towards the change you desire

This is Lorne Leach's avatar and link to their profile

Lorne Leach

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT,CADC-II
AddictionsSelf esteem
24 years of experience

ABOUT ME Hi, my name is Lorne Leach and I am a Marriage Family Therapist licensed since 2000. I help others deal with a variety of issues including marriage and family problems, anxiety, depression, addictions, grief and coping with life changes. My work has been in a variety of settings including outpatient, residential, addictions rehab, detox, private practice and correctional facilities. The approach I prefer is generally cognitive behaviorally oriented and have had training in several modalities including Motivational Interviewing, Twelve Step Facilitation and Seeking Safety. I take a collaborative approach with clients and believe that ultimately the individual will make their own choices. My job as a therapist is to empower you , help you process and help you develop self help tools. I look forward to the honor of accompanying you in the healing and growth process. SPECIALTIES Addictions Grief Parenting issues Coping with life changes Also experienced in: Stress, Anxiety , LGBT , Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Intimacy-related issues , Anger management , Self esteem , Depression , more... Clinical approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing Years of Experience: 25 SERVICES OFFERED MESSAGING LIVE CHAT PHONE VIDEO LICENSING LMFT 37168

This is Marisa Katzman's avatar and link to their profile

Marisa Katzman

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hello! My name is Marisa and I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker (LCSW) in the state of California and Licensed Independent Social Worker in the state of South Carolina (LISW). I have ten years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with overcoming/coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Dr. Aprile Coleman's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Aprile Coleman

Offering therapy in California
License: D.M.F.T.,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

**[SUMMER/FALL 2024] • Current Availability: - TUESDAYS: EARLY AM, MIDDAY - WEDNESDAYS: EARLY AM, MIDDAY • Current Session Times: -9AM-2:30PM Eastern / 5AM-11:30AM Pacific • Clients: - INDIVIDUALS - ADULTS (22+) - POC, WOC, BLKM, BIPOC -------------------- Hello. I am a psychotherapist based in South Florida. I talk with you about whatever matters most to you. I support those who are ready for change. I specialize in Stress, Trauma, Anxiety, and Depression. I help you remember that, despite difficult ordeals, it is possible to move forward. I also remind you that talking helps. My top work entails... "Positive Mental Health by Understanding Ourselves" – I work closely with clients going through Depression, Anxiety, and Trauma. Together we discuss the memories and feelings that you're struggling with and figure out healthy ways to talk and cope. Plus, lots of conversation on creating healthy habits, seeing a doctor, when medication is necessary, and how to sustain peace, calm, and balance inside and out. "Situational Depression and Anxiety" – Covid put all of us in different places, situations and changes--some positive, some not so positive. Its repercussions are still present today. This is where you share with me what is going on in your life triggering difficulty in coping with current circumstances. I do mental health assessments, and together we discuss what you're going through, how to express your feelings, and how to lift your mood and focus on thoughts, actions, and behaviors despite how life unfolds. You will learn resilience... essentially how to respond versus react and follow your life values and make decisions accordingly. "Couples Therapy for One" - I am a big proponent to healing relationships if that is a part of your goals. I work with *individuals* as they work to better their relationships or move through relationship conflict, breakup, or even divorce. Some call it "couples therapy" despite it being with just one person present as my client. "Professional Growth/Entrepreneur Mental Health" – I work with those struggling through Stress and Burnout. Particularly to those who are entrepreneurs, business owners, and high achieving professionals facing unique challenges of that lifestyle. Also, this is ideal for those in the helping and caregiving professions such as nurses, therapists, counselors, and first responders. "Health Focused" – Also, I am a medical family therapist. I can talk with you about your chronic pain and/or illness struggles along with medical facets to your diagnosis, treatment and recovery. *MORE ABOUT ME:* I believe mindfulness and self-care are powerful and freeing. I practice solution focused, person-centered, positive psychology everyday. I am enthralled with the stars (of the sky), live for music and travel, and frequently am found taking walks in the South Florida sunshine. In the meantime, I love working with my clients, and supporting them through growth. How can I help you?

This is Dr. Joni Carrasco's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Joni Carrasco

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementCompassion fatigue
17 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Utah with 17 years of professional work experience. 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. To be transparent, I have a neurological disorder that sometimes impacts my speech patterns, however it does not impact me cognitively. Because of my speech impediment I completely understand if you ask me to repeat myself or just need to work with another therapist. I use worksheets and help to find support group suggestions on the Better Help platform for almost everyone. I love those resources, they really work!

This is Marie Gauley's avatar and link to their profile

Marie Gauley

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
28 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and offer support for getting started! As you start this process, you may want to identify one or two goals to focus on. I will teach you some skills to help you manage Your emotions and I will be asking you to practice in between sessions. I’m available for support between sessions.

This is Cesar Mardones's avatar and link to their profile

Cesar Mardones

Offering therapy in California
LGBTRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

This is William "Keith" Jones's avatar and link to their profile

William "Keith" Jones

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LPCC
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoaching
8 years of experience

Hello, I'm therapist, Keith Jones . I am a LPCC with extensive experience with Substance Use Disorder issues. My passion is in the area of performance which has lead me to counsel individuals, athletes, artist, students, professionals, executives , groups and teams. This person- centered approach has been successful in helping clients identify their strengths, and to address the areas that keep them from their top performance. Together we will device a treatment plan and practice that will help you reach your goals and and let you be your best self.

This is Pauline Gray's avatar and link to their profile

Pauline Gray

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
18 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Dr. Demi Shugrue's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Demi Shugrue

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Joanne Ricketts's avatar and link to their profile

Joanne Ricketts

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

I am licensed in California with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, and self esteem. I also have experience working with depression. 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 with you on this journey towards wholeness!

This is Leah Faurbo's avatar and link to their profile

Leah Faurbo

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping 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, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.

This is Juanita Sanchez-Grob's avatar and link to their profile

Juanita Sanchez-Grob

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf 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, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with 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 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 BetterHelp therapists in California does not offer diagnostic or medication management services in therapy.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor or therapists?

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, working with:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders requiring therapy
  • Anxiety disorders in need of therapeutic support
  • Depression or depressive mental health conditions
  • Adjustment issues in need of therapeutic support
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief therapy
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma therapy
  • Relationship conflicts and mental health concerns

Finding a therapist in California 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 therapy site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the therapy 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 therapy with a licensed therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person California therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $65 to $100 per week. 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.

Is it possible to find a therapist, counselor, or psychology practitioner that offers affordable therapy?

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.

What can a psychologist help me with in therapy?

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 in-person or online therapy with a therapist in California?

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.

Are online therapy sessions 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.
Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist