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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Moushumi Ghose

Offering therapy in California
License: MA, LMFT
LGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesCoaching
17 years of experience

Hello! I have been working with couples and individuals, specifically in the realm of kink-positive, sex-positive couples therapy, specializing in ethical and consensual non-monogamy, but empowering ALL relationships regardless of format and sex lives since opening my practice in 2007. My work focuses on developing stronger communication, a better understanding and awareness of our desires, driving forces, and developing a deeper connection between mind and body. I work to help people break down shame, guilt and to feel more positive, to develop healthier attitudes around sex, sexuality, gender, fluidity and more. I deal with relationship issues, and have extensive experience with ethical and consensual non monogamy (enm/cnm), polyamory, kink, LGBTQIA++, sex work, dating concerns, creative expression, sexual/social minorities, gender issues, BIPOC. I have extensive experience working with trauma around religion and sex. I feel that all things are interconnected. Our relationships cannot be healed unless we look at ourselves and vice versa. Our psychological experiences will have an affect on our bodies. Some issues I can help you with might include: Polyamory, Consensual Non Monogamy Sex Therapy Relationship Concerns LGBTQ Transgender, Agender, Non-Binary Infidelity Sexual Trauma Fear of Intimacy Lack of Sexual Desire, Problems with Arousal Feelings of Guilt, Fear, Anxiety around Sex Uncertainty About Sexual Orientation or Gender Emotional Love Addictions Career Changes Breaking Up

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Sheila Brittain

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

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist offering a unique combination of professional skills, education, and knowledge, which include, mediation and small business owner/consultant. I embrace this profession with a wealth of life experiences that include over 30 years in social services. As a change agent, I create and maintain a trusting and safe space where individuals can explore a new way of being and existing. We don’t get to choose our family of origin, but we do get to choose how we are going to be in our many interactions with others. The investments we make in our self are reflected in our daily life. Our beliefs, perceptions, and feelings guide us as we live day to day. Allowing individuals to create their own truth through exploration and empowerment can bring understanding and hope as they encounter a new way of living. I believe change and healing occurs as a result of a collaborative and relational experience. My role is to support my clients through the therapeutic process and help them discover a resolution to conflict/or pain, whether it occurs on the inside with one’s thoughts and feelings or on the outside between two or more individuals. I bring a curious mind, and an open heart as we make the journey together to a better life. Congratulations on wanting to improve yours…

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Regina Phelps

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Family conflictsCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California. I have been working in the social services field for approximately 25 years, and have been a licensed therapist since 2012. I have experience conducting individual, couples and group therapy, in both residential and outpatient settings. Clients I see have presented with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, relationship and parenting issues, grief/loss, addiction, trauma, and dealing with life’s transitions. My approach to therapy is person/client centered in nature, meaning that I start new therapeutic relationships by making every effort to meet each person "where they are" and to serve as a support for each individual who is progressing through their own unique process of self-discovery and personal growth. In my work with clients, I use some of the leading psychological modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy. I will also use elements of Narrative, Strategic, and Family Systems approaches as appropriate. Clinical Approaches: • Solution Focused Therapy • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) • Motivational Interviewing • Twelve Step support • Psychodynamic Interventions SPECIALTIES • Relationship issues • Stress and Anxiety • Addictions and Codependency • Grief and Loss • Transitions/Life changes Also experienced in: • Parenting issues • Self-esteem • Work w/ Military/Veterans/First Responders My Educational Credentials include: - Licensed by the State of California, Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) - California State University, Fresno Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology - Trained in Psychological First Aid I believe in creating a space where we can have difficult conversations, work on resolving issues and collaborate on treatment plans that are tailored to your personal needs and experiences. I appreciate the courage and motivation needed to reach out for additional support, and I want to thank you for trusting me to assist as you work through your personal challenges. I look forward to working with you!

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Sandra Hurtado

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT105664
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Lourdes Torres

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, bipolar disorder, & 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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Tara Davidson

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy related issues, & parenting issues. 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!

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Sharmie Silva

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience, primarily as a school social worker and school counselor working with teens and their families. I’m excited to also branch out and provide therapy to young adults, adults and couples. I have experience working with a variety of issues; from grief & loss, PTSD, ADHD, depression and anxiety to family conflicts, blended families, separation/divorce and co-parenting, as well as with issues impacting self-esteem, and confidence. I’m excited to work with clients to create an open and safe environment toward better self-expression, understanding & growth! ** I work part-time for BetterHelp and have limited availability. However, during June and July I have some additional time slots available, in which I can offer new clients approximately 4-6 sessions. If you are currently in need of short-term therapy to deal with a particular situation/issue, please feel free to book an open time slot. If you are looking to continue with the same therapist for more than 6 sessions, I most likely won't be able to accommodate on-going sessions after mid August, and I would recommend letting BetterHelp know to match you with a different therapist who has more on-going availability. Feel free to message me on this platform if you have any questions or need further clarification. Take good care!

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Dr. Jessica Winn

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

Dr. Winn is a clinical psychologist and licensed marriage and family therapist with 18+ years of clinical experience in the field. She also has 3 years of experience as a clinical supervisor and has spent 6 years teaching full-time at the university level as a professor to bachelor's, master's, and doctoral students in the field of behavioral sciences. Dr. Winn's experience includes working with toddlers, children, and teens individually and in groups, as well as families, adults, and couples in a diverse range of treatment milieux. Her practice has included clinical work in schools, group homes, substance use rehabilitation clinics, psychological assessment offices and case management programs, home-based programs, and partial hospitalization clinics treating post-psychiatrically institutionalized populations. Dr. Winn is currently accepting clients needing therapeutic support for reducing stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, working through trauma and abuse, and increasing motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. *** If you are seeking couples therapy, I can be requested at BetterHelp's couples service through Regain: https://www.regain.us/jessica-winn/.

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Heather Neilson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, 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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Cory Sullivan

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

I have a passion for helping people find their new normal after traumatic injuries and/or chronic illness and have first-hand experience with the grief, and loss of identity that comes with life after a traumatic injury. I focus on letting my clients know that they are not in this alone, despite what their irrational thoughts tell them. Throughout my life, I've navigated the complexities of establishing a new normal after a traumatic injury and grappling with the impact they have on mental health and overall well-being. These firsthand experiences have instilled empathy and understanding that I bring to every therapeutic encounter. I am committed to creating a safe, supportive, and empowering space where individuals can explore their experiences, process their emotions, and cultivate resilience on their journey toward healing. I strive to utilize strength-based skills that have helped you conquer old foes while incorporating new skills and strategies to overcome present obstacles.

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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