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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Patrick O'Leary

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
39 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the golden state of California with 39 years of experience in the field of psychology and active practice. My background covers a very wide range of life issues and concerns including anxiety, depression, life cycle issues, parenting problems, chronic mental health problems, ADHD, addictions, psychosis, trauma and abuse, grief and loss. (I work with a very wide range of issues and concerns across the life spectrum). My personal counseling style is engaging, warm, and interactive. I don't believe a diagnosis identifies who a person is. As Mr. Rogers quoted across the last fifty years, you are "OK", just the way you are! Regarding my counseling style my approach includes and combines client centered and a cognitive behavioral approach during a session. I am not limited to these two modalities, as most counselors today use interventions that are from a multiple of modalities of therapy that are acceptable and appropriate and with researched and evidenced based practices. I will adjust our interactions and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I truly look forward to working with you.

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Dr. Carol Antosh

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Hello: My name is Dr. Carol Antosh and I am licensed in the state of California as an Educational Psychologist as well as Marriage and Family Psychotherapist. I am also board certified as a School Neuropsychologist and have have significant experience with neuro-diversity and autism . My educational background includes receiving a Ph.D. in Psychology; and I enjoy enhancing my knowledge and treatment approaches with continuing education. I maintain over 30 years of professional work experience. Most recently, I have focused on helping clients to best cope with grief and loss, relationship issues, family conflicts. and motivational issues related to depression and loneliness. I maintain the position that the therapeutic setting must be an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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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Kendra Theroith

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I'm a down to earth therapist that will meet my clients where they're at. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. More importantly, I have experience working with teenagers and LGBTQ population. 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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Cindy Cothran

Offering therapy in California
License: LPC-MHSP
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
18 years of experience

Hello, starting therapy can be tough and I hope to make the first steps easier if possible. It is my belief that therapy can be a place of emotional refuge and I work hard to let each person know that their best interest comes first. I hope that through understanding and gentle humor, we can find connection and work on the challenges that brought you to seek a therapist. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, a loss, life changes, trauma or some other circumstance, I hope to support and help you through the situation. I have been a therapist for more than 15 years and in that time I have honed a flexible set of therapy skills that I adapt to match your personal life goals. No matter which therapeutic approach I am utilizing, my style is always sincere and wholehearted. I believe in the goodness of all people and that we are all worthy of respect. I do lean toward evidenced-based therapeutic approaches and I am trained in a variety of models/ techniques. If I had to describe my therapeutic style in a few words, I would say that I am an attachment-based therapist with an eclectic therapy style as I draw from such approaches as mindfulness, solution based therapy, cognitive behavioral approaches, Hakomi, somatic approaches and EMDR. I look forward to working with you as you take the next step to living the life you want to live!

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Erika Rana

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 7+ years of experience working with clients from diverse populations and backgrounds. I am licensed in California, where I received most of my professional education. My experience includes working with individuals, both adults and children, couples and families. I believe everyone can get better, despite the situation. There will always be someone willing to help for the ones who want it. I have worked with diverse populations including people involved with the foster care system, criminal justice system as well as treatment for substance abuse. I also have experience working with clients in situations of domestic violence and other forms of abuse. Similarly, I have worked with other populations including LGBT, African American community, Caribbean and other people or color. I have some experience working with people in the kink community as well. In my private practice, I have been successful managing spiritual emergencies after traumatic psychedelic experiences, as well as other spiritual-related experiences. I am a certified yoga teacher, which I also incorporate into my practice. I like to use different therapeutic techniques- which I tailor for each client and their individual needs. My theoretical approach is client-centered, as well as humanistic and existential. I also include CBT, mindfulness, spirituality, yoga and other principles into my practice. I truly enjoy being a part of people’s healing journey. I am passionate about my work and believe it is a privilege to serve people in this way. My goal is to know you, support you and give you all the possible tools you can use to get where you want to be. Being born and raised in Mexico City, I particularly enjoy serving Latino and other Spanish speaking communities. I believe it is important to experience therapy in the language you consider your primary/maternal language- and I am happy to provide that service. When I am not being a therapist, I am a toddler mom, a cat mom and a wife. I live in New York and I have a bicultural/ biracial family (Indian/ Mexican). I love art in all forms, particularly tattoos. I am a big fan of self-expression through body art, fashion and jewelry. Finding the right therapist is important. I encourage you to reach out if my profile resonates with you. I’ll be happy to help!

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Ivan Foote

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Steven Gaddis

Offering therapy in California
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger management
20 years of experience

Greetings! I am a counselor, currently licensed in California and Texas, with approximately 20 years of experience. My experiences include working with individuals to address topics such as anger management, relationship issues, alcohol and other drug related concerns, personal development, and mood disturbances. I have also worked with criminal justice involved individuals. My style primarily utilizes a Cognitive Behavioral perspectives with an understanding that the connection and trust between counselor and client is paramount in an effective and productive partnership. I believe that by working to create a safe and authentic environment the stage is best prepared for creating healthy change and movement towards ones goals. Although the specific methods utilized will be based on individual details and interactions, my interactions are personalized and focused on an individual's strengths. I typically review incoming messages at least twice a day, at least once in the AM and once in the PM. I appreciate you and your interest in counseling as an opportunity to create or maintain the life you envision. I hope to have the opportunity to partner with you in your next steps and I look forward to hearing from and working with you.

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Jeremeka McBride

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

Welcome! My goal is to provide quality services to clients by establishing relationships that encourage growth and mutual respect. I am a licensed clinical social worker who has been providing therapy services for over 5 years. I believe therapy is a tool that you can use to navigate anything, big or small. I believe that therapy is beneficial to everyone and being in therapy allows you to express yourself in a judgment free environment. I am licensed and trained to work with children, adolescents, adults, and families with varying levels of psychological and relational concerns. My primary therapeutic use is solution-focused counseling and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am here to guide you, advise you, provide strong active listening skills, support, and direct you in finding the solutions to your struggles. My goal is to use my best judgement and experienced clinical skill sets to direct you along your journey I look forward to working with you!

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hassan abdullah

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyDepression
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and family therapist (LMFT). I have worked with individuals for over 8 years, both online and inpatient/outpatient community mental health settings. I have worked with various issues over the past 8 years and have a client-centered/person centered approach. I believe in providing a safe, welcoming, emphatic, and attentive environment for individuals to think, reflect, and grow. I have realized through previous feedback that this was helpful for people. I utilize an integrative therapy approach to support people achieve their goals and obtain relief. About me: ------------- I migrated from Bangladesh when I was 5 years old. I have experienced many transitions in my life and in my environments. I've gone through my own personal traumas from physical/emotional abuse, to bullying, to witnessing interpersonal violence, to other abuses that I have recovered from after going through my own journey of recovery. So, I definitely can understand and empathize with trauma. I've gone through the pressure of needing to excel and be the best at everything due to cultural/familial/parental expectations. I understand how it can be like to have dual identities, one at home and one outside. I have witnessed mental health in my family, communities and have gone through my own personal journey in mental health. I understand how challenging it is and isolating/stigmatizing it can feel to get help. I also know how hard it is to break the silence and trust another person. I'm very passionate about breaking the stigma of mental health and bringing symptom relief for those that are struggling. You don't have to do it alone. It can be very refreshing realizing that you are not alone in this journey. You can thrive. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, spirituality, religious issues & coping with life changes. Once again, my approach is to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dr. Ray Armstrong

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCareer difficulties
20 years of experience

Hello, I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. My therapeutic philosophy is that individuals need to be a part of their own solutions. Each person is an expert of their own life; not anyone else. I strive to empower clients to feel that their successes come from themselves and are the result of their own dedication and hard work. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I work with many different modalities, but really feel Narrative therapy and Solution focused are ones that instill hope, encouragement and a chance to alter perspectives and the overall "script / narrative." I try to stay away from diagnostic labels and work well with those who don't appreciate categories. I do not start labeling or plugging you into a pre -existing program. I won't put you in a "clinical" diagnostic box. As a Narrative and Solution Focused therapist, we focus on strengths you already have & build on current resources. We don't just talk about the problems over and over. Sessions are focused on making life more fulfilling, comfortable, meaningful, and enjoyable. I offer a very safe, judgement -free zone, compassionate & caring environment. Thank you very much or taking the time to read a bit about my approach.

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Amy Riesberg

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

I am licensed in Iowa and California. I have 9 years of professional work experience in mental health. In addition, I have extensive experience working in hospice and long term care. I have helped clients with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief and loss. I am certified in EMDR. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am very laid back and easy to talk to. Please be aware that I do not write ESA (Emotional Support Animals) letters fpr clients.

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Jessica Mendoza-Miranda

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Well, well, well. You finally decided to look for some help. If you want to know more about what I offer, scroll down :) Do you feel isolated, misunderstood, or lonely? Have you met your 13th reason or having a quarter-life crisis? If so, I’m here to listen, support, and be part of your team. If you’ve read this far, let’s schedule an appointment.

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Sharon Gray

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefSelf esteem
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 & lgbtq+ related 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. 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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Amanda Roman

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySelf 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, 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.

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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