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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Brigette Girardey

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
13 years of experience

Hello! My name is Brigette and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in East Bay, California. I have 10 years experience working with clients, providing therapeutic counseling services. I have worked with a diverse population of clients ranging from children, teens, adults, and elders. I provide services for individuals and families assisting with issues such as depression, isolation, anxiety, self esteem, trauma, loss, relationship issues, parenting issues, and more. I enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds and I value genuineness and collaboration with my clients. I provide a safe and supportive holding environment that is authentic and nonjudgmental in nature. I tailor my specific approach depending on client situation, needs, and goals for therapy. As well as draw from theories such as CBT, Solution Focused, Family Systems, and Client Centered modalities. Growth and change are encouraged through self reflection and finding practical solutions to problems. Making a change can feel overwhelming and scary, but if you are ready to take the first step and begin the road to a new way of life, I am here to help uplift and support you! I appreciate your courage and I look froward to hearing from you!

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Chelsea Heller

Offering therapy in California
License: MS, MA, PPS
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseParenting issuesADHD
5 years of experience

Hi there! I'm Chelsea! I'm so glad you're exploring therapy - I think everyone can benefit from processing things in life and learning more about themselves. It's important to feel comfortable and connected with your clinician, so I'd like to tell you a bit about myself to help you make an informed decision as to whether or not we'd be a good fit together! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. Previously, I worked as a social worker for Child Protective Services for 9 years, supporting children and families touched by foster care and adoption. As such, I am well versed in addressing core adoption issues, attachment, and identity concerns. Additionally, I have experience treating depression, anxiety, parenting, blended-families, teen concerns, grief/loss, trauma, abuse, crisis, and adjustment. I've also worked at an in-patient psychiatric hospital, helping stabilize individuals short-term with bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, depression, anxiety, addiction, co-morbid disorders, suicidal ideations, self-injurious behaviors, and those encountering psychotic breaks triggered by stress. Equally important was my role in educating families about the diagnosis and ways to support their loved ones. I have since transitioned to the education sector and have been supporting students as a School Psychologist. In this role, I conduct psychoeducational assessments to identify students with autism, intellectual disabilities, AD/HD, and learning disabilities, among others. My assessments are then utilized to inform independent education plans. I also conduct Educationally Related Mental Health Service assessments and provide related counseling, serving students with higher mental health needs. Lastly, I would be remiss if I neglected my passion and experience serving the LGBTQ community. For a portion of my time as a social worker, I worked solely with LGBTQ parents and children, providing support to this community. In the school setting, I conducted my doctoral research focusing on LGBTQ student needs and facilitated a Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) club, supporting LGBTQ students and allies. I utilize an eclectic approach with clients, though tend to draw primarily from a humanistic, person-centered approach. This dynamic in a therapeutic relationship means I attempt to “meet each client where they are.” This serves as a catalyst, allowing each individual to progress through their unique process of self-discovery. I also utilize principles from leading psychological modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Psychodynamic approaches. My role as a therapist is not to give you advice or change you. Rather, it is to be an understanding, empathic, and non-judgmental support to help guide you to your own choices, AT YOUR OWN PACE. Together, we can establish goals for therapy, and while I can help you gain insight, I will never push an agenda or risk rupturing our therapeutic relationship. I know it takes a lot of courage to seek support, and I am humbled by the opportunity to lend my strength during times when you are most vulnerable. My credentials include: - Bachelor of Arts in Social Science – California State University, San Marcos - Certificate in Parent Education and Training – University of California, Los Angeles - Certificate in Special Education Advocacy – University of San Diego - Master of Science in Research Psychology – University of Phoenix - Master of Arts in Counseling (Marriage & Family Therapy) – Mount Saint Mary’s College - PPS Credential in School Psychology – La Sierra University - Doctor of Education in Educational Psychology and Mental Health (in progress) – La Sierra University - Licensed by State of California Board of Behavioral Sciences (LMFT 116834) About me: I know it is difficult to share intimate details with someone, while not knowing any personal details about them. I also understand the desire for shared experiences, and feeling as though someone truly understands your pain. Thus, I tend to share some of my background with clients, while maintaining professional boundaries and focus. Growing up, my mother was a principal and my father was a chief of police. My older brother struggled with learning disabilities and drug addiction as a teen, eventually leading to crime and prison. Thus, as an adolescent, I was quickly exposed to internal conflict, fearing someone I loved, and grieving that relationship. As an adult, I became a single parent and sought my own therapy to manage the intense feelings of shame while learning to co-parent. I have since found a new partner and was recently married after postponing the wedding 4 times due to COVID.. I continue to navigate the challenges of having a blended family with my 6-year-old daughter and 6-year-old step son. I enjoy concerts, photography, soccer, and camping. I also use profanity a shitload more than I care to admit.

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Cheryl Wharton

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepression
30 years of experience

I have had a passion to help people since I was very young. I have been doing professional counseling for almost 30 years. I have a Degree in Psychology, a Masters Degree in Marriage & Family Therapy and am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California. I’m an experienced facilitator of health and healing for individuals, couples and families. With 30 years of experience in counseling, I know what it takes to move one into their desired path. My proven methods, will help you build and live a more authentic and powerful life. I create a place for individuals to talk about their experiences, to feel heard, knowing you’re valued, and feel a sense of belonging. My desire is to support you in identifying your strengths, facing life’s challenges, finding your purpose, building resilience, to grow and be vulnerable, to embrace your authentic self on your journey to a healthy lifestyle. I provide a safe, confidential and non-judgmental environment with understanding and respect. I use a holistic approach incorporating all aspects of the individual (psychological, social, emotional, physical and spiritual). It is often, not what happens in life, but how one deals with it. I believe the quality of your relationships, will determine the quality of your life. There are many things we can work on, where you will see your relationships improving. Many live with a life dominated by fear, and I can help you be an overcomer, instead of forever overcome. There are many areas I work in, however, I am interested in hearing from you and learning about you, your goals, desires and the pain. I believe that one should not export what isn't’ working in their own life. I have not only years of professional experience, but life experience as well, that has propelled me into a life, I never knew existed. I enjoy every day, the most amazing, loving relationship with my husband and I say that, to say this…. I know firsthand what a poor relationship is all about and I also know what it takes to get you from bad to Amazing. Nearly everyone can benefit from some direct, kind and professional support when an issue interferes with your enjoying a great life and Amazing relationships. Lack of effective support can interfere with rising above your circumstance, and being an overcomer to achieve what you want your life to be. I help people suffering from; Relationship issues, Dating, Anxiety, Depression, Fear, Coping, Panic Attacks, Low Self-Esteem, Stress, Grief and Loss, and Much More. Your reaching out, would telegraph to me that you don't want to just survive, but rather thrive. I can help you take the necessary steps... You "Matter".

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Michelle Clisby

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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.

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Natalie Alepin

Offering therapy in California
License: LPCC,LPC,MA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionADHD
27 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio and California and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri and Arizona with 28 years of experience working in crisis, outpatient and inpatient settings. I have worked with clients from 3 to the 90's with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, anger management, career challenges, existential crisis, and ADHD. I also helped many people with debilitating medical illnesses and chronic pain. I am flexible and available for reality therapy if requested. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with unconditional positive regard. I am respectful, sensitive, and compassionate. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, mindfulness and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. You are taking steps towards change and I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Kendra Cunha

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemADHD
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, family conflicts, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

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Heather Salazar

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Joseph F Dolowy III

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

My name rhymes: Joey Dolowy and my main driver in life is to help people. I really like being of service and love my job. I have been professionally employed as a therapist in California since 1998 and have a great deal of personal/professional/life experience. I have specialized in the following areas: depression: anxiety: chemical dependency/addiction issues (which has been a life long search as a friend OD'D when I was 13 and I have spent the ensuing decades reading and learning about addiction and drugs) : self harm: teen issues: phase of life issues: bullying: self esteem/self image: grief and loss and of course marital issues. I will listen and I will tailor our sessions and treatment plan to serve you. Finding a therapist can be complicated and I am simply here to help you: please contact me and let me start helping you. I specialize in providing sessions while hiking, biking, skating and even surfing. Thank you for taking the time to read this. I am here for you: CHEERS.

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Debra Dupree

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. Through the years, I've seen what works and what doesn't. I went back to get my Doctorate degree 2012-2014 and gained a profound framework for using the neuroscience of our brain to help clients gain mindshift insights, skills and strategies in relatively short timeframes. This mindshift approach is powerful for helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. Together we create a psychologically safe space where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment, shifting adversity into opportunity. It takes courage (and curiosity) to seek out ways for a more fulfilling and happier life. Congratulations on taking the first steps towards a new future! I am here to support & empower you in that journey and make it a reality! Dr. Debra Dupree, The MINDSET Doc

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Kyra Smith

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

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Terri Faith

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

I received my PhD in 2015 and have been licensed in California for 9 years with a total of 15 years of professional work experience in Psychology. I have a wide range of experience in different settings, using an array of modalities. Anxiety, OCD, relationship issues,, couples counseling, self esteem and depression have become my main focus. I feel that self love is the greatest medicine and an important foundation for a healthy mindset. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Support and empowerment are one of the main focuses in my practice, as is mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy mixed with Buddhist Psychology. These practices can enhance your ability to take control over the thoughts that create anxiety and depression, as well as emotions like anger. It also allows you to really get to know your true self. Like Socrates said, Know Thyself My life experience and education are important, but it’s working with people from all walks of life and making a huge difference in people’s lives that gives me the greatest pleasure.

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Jennifer Gaeta

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, depression, & coping with life changes. 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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Robert Ramos

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
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, & parenting issues. 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 and walk alongside with you in that process.

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Angela Diamante

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Rachel Taylor

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepression
9 years of experience

Life can be tough sometimes, and it can be a vulnerable act to reach out for support. I do my best to provide a person centered approach to help you reach your goals and resolve stuck beliefs that may be holding you back. I integrate various modalities, and tailor my approach to fit your needs. My approach was built from my experiences working in a trauma facility, community mental health care, and a managed care setting. If you think we may be a fit, please reach out and we can work together to create a plan that works for you.

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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