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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Sonia Blue

Offering therapy in California
License: M.A.,L.M.F.T.,
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Change is possible and we DO get better! I have experienced this personally and have witnessed it again and again in my 30 years as a psychotherapist. I have been privileged to accompany countless individuals, couples and families on their journey to health and wholeness. Healing the past, relating to others with greater intimacy and authenticity, communicating more effectively and creating meaning as we grow and change are just some of the possibilities positive, compassionate and effective therapy can offer. If your problems could be solved by good advice alone, you would have figured them out long ago. Problems that are difficult confound your efforts to move forward leaving you stuck. Let's have a DIFFERENT KIND OF CONVERSATION one that moves you towards clarity, changes behaviors and results in your feeling and doing better. I provide a confidential environment for you to come as you are and discover the internal resources that you already possess. I offer the patience for you to work through the difficulties that constrict you and I'll give the wisdom, empathy and support you deserve for the willingness it takes to begin this journey. *If you have questions about the benefits of psychotherapy watch this short animated clip called "Psychotherapy" on Vimeo. https://vimeo.com/134193131

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Dr. Floyd McGregor

Offering therapy in California
License: Ph.D
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
25 years of experience

Betterhelp Online Therapist All psychological counseling services are provided through Better.com Licensed Clinical Psychologist *Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology, with focus on diverse populations *Master in Psychology; focus on Cultural Diversity WHATEVER YOU THINK ABOUT YOU BRING ABOUT. This is the basis of positive psychology, where I use positive individual traits and experiences in your life coupled with exercises that will transform negative thoughts, feelings, ideas, and behaviors. My work with persons in prison produced profound effects while using this approach combined with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to change the thinking patterns of inmates. You have the power within you for change and growth...trust yourself. I have been a Licensed Clinical Psychologist for 15 years with an expertise in treating a wide range of psychological and psychiatric disorders such as: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Antisocial Personality Disorder, Explosive Anger Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Schizoaffective disorders My Counseling style is warn, comfortable, engaging and rapport building. I incorporate techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and positive psychology into my sessions. My goal is to create a safe place where we can have difficult conversation, work on resolving issues, and collaborate on treatment plans that are tailored to your personal needs and experiences.

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Dr. Henry Venter

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
25 years of experience

I’m a psychologist with more than 25 years of experience. I love counseling and working with individuals and couples. The joy of discovering a solution for a problem with someone and see them grow and thrive excites me. No one is perfect and at times, we all need help. It is a mistake trying to solve problems alone. I see counseling as the undiscovered gem in human functioning – far too many people miss the opportunity of working with a trained and skilled counselor to aid them on the journey to figure out a plan through their challenge. I’m glad you are considering this option and there is a reason that you are reading my profile. I would love working with you.

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Corie Duzsa

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

Hello and welcome. I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California with nearly 20 years experience. I have worked with children, teens, adults, couples, and families with a wide range of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship issues, parenting problems, family conflict, chronic pain, prenatal and postnatal depression, low self-esteem and more. I would describe my therapeutic approach as warm, compassionate, and empathic. I try to meet my clients where they are and help guide them through where they want and need to go. I believe creating a therapeutic relationship based on trust, safety, and compassion allows clients to explore their thoughts and feelings freely and openly. I like to work with clients collaboratively to discover strategies and solutions that work best for them. My approach combines cognitive behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and mindfulness therapy. I feel strongly that our childhood and early experiences shape who we are and how we see the world. In my work, I see a lot of childhood trauma survivors and work with client's to identify how their life has been impacted by their experiences, and work to develop goals for positive change in their lives.

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Jose Campos

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience of providing therapy for various mental health conditions and from that I believe in the dignity of people and professional treatment is most effective when dignity of the person is at the forefront of therapy. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and traumatic stress, in addition to issues embedded in those challenges such as relationship problems, difficulties with a sense of purpose, coping with past abuse, ADHD, and unresolved grief. As your therapist, I will collaborate with you on goals and objectives to achieve while having a therapeutic environment that is inclusive, empathetic, and informative about different mental health conditions or socio-emotional difficulties to empower decision-making about what goals to create and pursue in therapy. Therapy is intended to be individualized to see the whole person and not just the issues that are brought forward. With that said, I want to know what is working for you, and please ask me questions at any point during our time together. Apart of my professional goal is for you to be confident in sharing with me what I can do in assisting you. I look forward to meet you.

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Juan Alonso

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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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Marie Gauley

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
27 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.

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Miriam Guijarro

Offering therapy in California
Stress, Anxiety
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, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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. * Please note I do not provide any letters*

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Rachel Bivens

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
8 years of experience

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, my mission is to educate and empower individuals and families. My approach emphasizes advocacy, communication, and personal engagement, recognizing the unique genetic and cultural differences of each family, couple, child, and individual. My aim is to build enduring relationships within the community, families, couples, caregivers, parents, children, and on a personal level. I seize every chance to leverage my expertise for a positive social impact. My objective is to support families, couples, children, and individuals in overcoming their challenges, empowering them to enact lasting changes, and contributing to a thriving, productive, safe, and healthy community through one-on-one engagement. I am a firm advocate of holistic self-improvement, believing in the necessity of intentional daily life and self-betterment. My role involves equipping and empowering communities, families, couples, parents, caregivers, children, and individuals with the knowledge and skills to strengthen interpersonal relationships and pursue self-actualization in their personal lives, within the community, their families, as caregivers, parents, and children, using an educational, preventive, and strength-based approach. With over a decade of experience aiding clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, and parenting concerns, I hold the conviction that you are the master of your narrative and possess numerous strengths that will aid you in surmounting your challenges. Initiating therapy requires bravery, and I commend you for taking that first step. Personally, I identify primarily as an African American woman with deep spiritual beliefs, a mother of nine, and a Ya-Ya (grandmother) of seven. My life experiences, professional background, and education have equipped me to actively engage in advocacy, empowerment, and self-sufficiency for communities, families, caregivers, parents, and children, perpetuating a cycle of change to make a difference in the world.

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Tara McBrearty

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Licensed by the State of California with 30 years of experience, I provide an opportunity for people to explore their emotional landscape as they navigate difficult life transitions. By supporting their sense of self and encouraging their capacity to manage change, I have helped clients sort through conflicts in their relationships, understand barriers to intimacy, re-discover their enthusiasm for life, build trust in themselves and others, and push through barriers to career growth and accomplishment. A cooperative and tolerant approach is key to happiness. I work to offer this tone in my professional relationship with you. This in turn creates an environment of freedom and creativity in our sessions. I understand, the courage required to take the pivotal steps to pursue your sense of purpose and fulfillment. I am pleased to be selected by you to support & empower this journey. Post Script: I am deeply influenced by the writings of Carl Jung, Abraham Maslow, Piaget, Carl Rogers, and Adi Da Samraj, to mention a few. Also, the trainings of Virginia Satire, Michael White , Gabor Mate, Ellyn Bader, John and Julie Gottman, William R. Miller and David Whyte have enlarged my sense of what it is to be human and how to relate productively to our thoughts and feelings.

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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