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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Starr Lee

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
9 years of experience

Hello, my name is Starr Lee, a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California. I have nine years of experience as a clinical therapist, working with individuals and families from diverse communities. I worked with a wide range of clients struggling with PTSD, trauma, grief and loss, stress, anxiety, depression and relationship issues. I provide person-centered therapy with the focus of self-awareness and self-acceptance to encourage growth. My therapeutic stance is to encourage self-exploration of thoughts and feelings, looking at every aspect of a person’s life to identify strengths and build resiliency. Therapy is focus on you and exploring the use of your skills and abilities to develop small changes that will lead to bigger changes. I have training in a range of modalities including art therapy, parenting skills, grief counseling, solution-focused, strength-based model, family therapy, existential therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I take a holistic approach to therapy, addressing an individual as a whole person. My goal is to build a meaningful relationship with you through unconditional positive regard, empathy, and genuineness on your path to regain health, wholeness and wellness. I am looking forward to getting to know you on your journey of self-discovery and healing.

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Dr. Paul Van Zeumeren

Offering therapy in California
License: Psy.D.,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
11 years of experience

Are you having difficulties in your personal relationships or other areas of your life? Do you suspect that alcohol or substance use in your life is becoming an addictive behavior? Is sadness, worry, racing thoughts or other matters becoming intrusive in your life? If you are experiencing these or any other concerns, I would like to help you. I can do this using insight oriented psycho-therapy to encourage behaviors designed to replace unproductive actions and beliefs with a useful paradigm for living with peace of mind. I am a results oriented Marriage and Family Therapist. The Doctoral research I have completed situates me to assist you through the use of solution focused interventions designed to change perspectives using an action orientation. Improving one's relationships has been shown to improve one's quality of life and life satisfaction. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and hold a Psy. D. in clinical psychology. As far as addiction is concerned, my Doctoral research and studies combined with an extensive Addiction counseling experience, have positioned me to blend psychological principles with classical addiction recovery philosophies. These perspectives, when combined are likely to increase a person's chances of a sustained and fruitful sobriety experience.

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Dayna Hunt

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

Hello, my name is Dayna Hunt and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist in the State of California. I was born and raised in Northern California, specifically Marin County. I have lived in Southern California and also Seattle, Washington. I have traveled across the United States as well as to Europe and lived a short time in Australia. I enjoy being outdoors, hiking, spending time in nature and with family. I received my Bachelor of Science Degree at California Polytechnic University in San Luis Obispo, CA and my Master of Science Degree in Counseling Psychology at Dominican University in San Rafael, Calif. I have always enjoyed listening to people's stories and problem solving. I knew I wanted to be a counselor at a very young age and began pursuing psychology early in life. My professional experience in the field began 27 years ago, when I began formally studying relationships and the different roles people play in their lives. I have worked with families, couples, teenagers, children and individuals in the private practice setting, family service agencies, schools and in the corporate setting. I utilize DBT training, also known as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy which taught me how to help others focus on improving distress tolerance skills, interpersonal skills, mindfulness and emotion regulation skills. I utilize CBT training, also known as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which taught me that thoughts matter, as they serve to create our individual reality. I believe if people examine and change their thoughts, they can change their life. Finally, I utilize a client centered, Rogerian approach, which in simple terms means, I meet people where they are at. If they want to improve their relationships, I try to help them to consider a new way of thinking as perspective is everything. I help them to increase healthy communication skills, decrease conflict and improve boundaries. This is what I help people do.

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Amber Atwood

Offering therapy in California
License: MS, LPCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). My therapy approach is strength-based aimed to empower and motivate individuals. I have been trained in a variety of approaches incorporating mindfulness based therapy techniques and cognitive behavioral therapy. Additionally, I have had extensive training in narrative therapy which is founded on the premise that “the person is not the problem, the problem is the problem.” Emphasis in treatment is to help individuals increase a greater sense of self-awareness, mind-body connection, and support personal growth. This approach includes developing an improved understanding of current coping mechanisms and behavioral patterns to help identify when feeling stuck.

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Dr. Skultip Sirikantraporn

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in New York and California with 10 years of professional work experience. As a licensed psychologist and a yoga instructor, I see the healing journey for all of us as holistic, fresh, and full of growing and healing possibilities for both our mind and body. I truly believe in everyone's full potential to create a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life, despite hardships and struggles. In fact, often it is the hardships and struggles that motivate us to get in touch with our strengths to overcome and thrive to live life to the fullest. I would like to have the honor to work with you in discovering ways to create life that is peaceful, meaningful, and joyful for you. My approach is a blend of cognitive behavioral, humanistic, and mind-body integrative interventions with your unique needs and style at the center of my work. I hope to get to work with you on your journey. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Darlene Shipp-Estes

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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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Juanita J Smith Whittington

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

Your life is a story of transition. I am a compassionate and experienced African American therapist with over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults. I am dedicated and committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking healing and personal growth. I believe in the power of therapy to empower individuals and promote mental health well-being. Whether you are facing challenges related to life transitions, relationships, or personal development, I am here to guide you towards self-discovery and resilience. Let's collaborate to create positive change in your life. In my work as a therapist, I primarily utilize a cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) approach, focusing on the connection between thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and aims to identify and modify unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior. I incorporate elements of mindfulness-based techniques to help clients develop greater self-awareness and acceptance. I have extensive experience working with a diverse range of clients, including individuals, couples, and families. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, depression, relationship issues, and navigating life stressors. I strive to create a professional and inviting therapeutic environment where clients can feel supported and empowered.

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Genesis Goma

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
8 years of experience

I am a therapist licensed in California with 8 years of experience working as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, motivation, ADHD, and autism. I have an undergraduate degree in Psychology from Pepperdine University and masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from University of Southern California. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral and humanistic. 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 and empower you in that journey. I look forward to working with you!

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Lakeina Ferguson

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Jessica Baes

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

As a proud USC graduate and Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California, I bring 4 years of dedicated experience to my work with clients. My focus is on helping individuals navigate stress and anxiety, relationship challenges, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and career difficulties. I truly believe that you are the expert of your own story, equipped with unique strengths to overcome life’s obstacles. Seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and it’s a privilege for me to support and empower you on this journey. Together, we’ll work toward the growth and change you envision. Important Note: I do not provide letters, forms, or other documentation for clients for legal, medical, or employment purposes, including emotional support animal requests, disability accommodations, or court-related matters. My focus is on providing therapy and support to address your emotional and mental health needs.

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Jazmin L Martinez

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

I am licensed in California with over 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief & loss, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes & healing from generational trauma. 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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Gregory White

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
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, family conflicts, trauma and substance abuse, & coping with grief. The truth is my personal journey to overcome challenges has given me the experience to be an effective clinical therapist. I am a strengths based therapist and I know that with honesty in self evaluation any rejection and self doubt can be overcome, I am proof. I do this work because I have devoted myself to overcoming my mistakes and failures. I am a Christian therapist and am more than happy to include, (if you desire), spiritual principles in your recovery, but it is something that must be requested by you. I am here as proof that mistakes can be overcome and do not dictate your future. I accept couples for therapy and have been married for 20 yrs. and we have been able to work through many issues and having a supportive and loving spouse is such a blessing and would be happy to give hope to any married couples that would welcome a Christian therapist.

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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