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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Dr. Wanda Boutte

Offering therapy in California
License: wandaboutte@sbcglobal.net, EDD, LCSW
LGBTFamily conflictsGriefEating disordersDepression
20 years of experience

As a compassionate supportive therapist, over the past 20 plus years, I have counselled clients from diverse backgrounds with a wide variety of issues and backgrounds. I am competent in providing therapeutic services to individuals, adolescents, and families with an array of diverse psychosocial and mental health needs. My specialties are working with Addictions, Grief/Loss, Medical conditions, Mid-Life Crisis, Abuse, Relational issues, Parent-Teen issues, Self-esteem, Victims of Crime, Mood Disorders, Faith, LBGT, including Life Coaching, professional, communication, and career planning.

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Dara Charlton

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefEating disordersDepression
20 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker counselor in Oregon and California with over 20 years of experienceworking as a therapist and health coach. I have worked with clients with a widerange of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parentingproblems, career challenges, eating disorders and borderline personality disorders. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is non judgemental and down to earth. I believe in treating anyone with respect,sensitivity, and compassion, and I want to hear your story with an open heart and mind. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing psychodynamic and rational-emotivecounseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am constantly learning and taking courses to make sure my approach is unique to each situation. It takes a lot of guts to seek out help and work to reduce suffering to create a fulfilling life. . I have a passion for helping people with complex presentations including chronic medical issues, eating disorders, mood instability, anxiety, self harm behaviors, suicidal thoughts, and symptoms of trauma. Together we will explore thoughts, feelings, behaviors and uncover what is leading to self limiting behaviors and beliefs. I will help you develop the school to create a life of peace. Outside of my work as therapist, I enjoy visiting my family in LA, and watching my daughter dance, I am passionate about juicing and spin class. My best friend is my dog Sailor a Havaton (half Havanese/half Coton du Tulear).

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Dr. Lynor Jackson

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
30 years of experience

I have formal education and life experiences in navigating health care, educational and juvenile justice systems. I have approximately 30 years of experience supporting people with crisis intervention, depression, emotional and physical abuse, grief, loss and anxiety. I have collaborated with educational and probation officers in providing support to enhance change in behaviors to move individuals towards navigating life. The therapy I use is cognitive behavior therapy, supportive and interactive and compassion. I believe in empowering and supporting change for the positive. I look forward to assisting people in coping with life in challenging times.

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Colleen Overholt

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

I am a marriage and family therapist and I have been licensed in California with almost 30 years of experience working as a Psychotherapist, Clinical Supervisor, Program Manager, Regional Director and Executive Director of various clinical and community based programs. Over the years, I have worked with a wide variety of individuals and families of all ages, in many different environments including private practice, schools, clinics, field work, etc. I am experienced in working with multiple issues such as depression, anxiety, phobias and OCD, self-esteem and confidence issues, trauma/PTSD, homelessness, severe mental illness and more. I believe strongly that each person has unique strengths that can be discovered and magnified to achieve one's own path to happiness and wellness . My approach to therapy is empathetic and supportive, but I understand that the client and their needs direct the therapy work itself. I view my role as one of providing structure, guidance, and motivation as it is needed. I encourage my clients to be vocal about their needs and what they hope to get out of therapy. I am accepting and supportive of all people, and I honor diversity. I often utilize CBT techniques to challenge and change negative thinking patterns, and encourage and assist people to find their own strengths and talents that will be critical along the journey to wellness. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the single most important ingredient to transformational healing and growth. Everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and valued for who they are. As your partner in this process, you can count on me to be fully engaged, meet you where you are, and affirm your worth every step of the way. The therapeutic process should be intriguing, empowering, and rewarding throughout the journey. I look forward to working with you! I am a Solution-Focused Therapist who incorporates a variety of Psychodynamic and Evidenced-Based therapies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to Mindfulness. SPECIALTIES Stress, Anxiety Trauma and abuse Bipolar disorder Depression Coping with life changes Also experienced in: Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Grief , Parenting issues , Anger management , Self esteem , Career difficulties , Compassion fatigue , ADHD , Aging and Geriatric Issues , Read more... Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy Years of Experience: 30

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Kery Silva

Offering therapy in California
LGBTCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and a Licensed Independent Mental Health Independent Practitioner/Clinical Social Worker in Nebraska. I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ related issues, career difficulties, coping with life changes, & executive and professional coaching. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Dorina Stern

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that knowing yourself is most important factor in healing and in helping you create the life that you want. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life is a risk worth taking to make the changes for a better life. I am here to support you in that process and make sure that you have a safe and positive healing experience.

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Audrey Teshima

Offering therapy in California
Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 12 years of professional clinical work experience. Additionally, I have extensive experience as a public school teacher. My clinical experience ranges across a variety of treatment settings including private practice, community mental health/substance abuse clinics, and in the elementary, middle and high school environment. I specialize in family conflicts, relationship struggles, parenting/co-parenting issues, self esteem and confidence, and vocational & career difficulties. While integrating Biblically based Christian principles, and with gentle balance and guidance, I will walk with you through your areas of concern as you process the vast array of emotions attached to the issues. Together, we will work toward a solution that is focused on your strengths to create a more resourceful, resilient, hope-filled life worth living.

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Lorrie Herzberg

Offering therapy in California
License: MSW,LCSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts and California, have 30 years as a clinical social worker. I have expertise in helping clients with stress and anxiety, life transitions, aging parents, trauma, coping with grief and loss, and exploration of life challenges. You deserve respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Our dialog and treatment plan will be designed to meet your unique and specific needs and I will make available research-validated and cutting edge modalities. 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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Mariel Ross

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping 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, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 I am proud of you for getting started!

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Danielle Jones

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

Hi there! My name is Danielle Jones and I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California for over 12 years. My career as a therapist has allowed me to work with a variety of clients across the lifespan, and I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective support to individuals and families navigating challenges. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, Identity, attachment, in need of anger management, or you're just feeling stuck in life, I'm here to help you overcome it. My approach to therapy is tailored to the needs of each individual client. We will work collaboratively to identify your current challenges and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your goals. My therapeutic approach is derived from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Therapy. Other treatment modalities I use and find helpful are Psychodynamic, Attachment, and Strength-based Therapy. These approaches provide various tools depending on a client's needs. Clients come to therapy seeking change, and I see myself as a catalyst in that process. My client focus is typically individual sessions with adolescents and adults who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, relational issues, trauma, and grief. I tailor sessions to meet the needs of each age group, ensuring that therapy is age-appropriate and effective. I aim to create a relaxed, safe, and supportive environment for my clients. By building rapport and providing active listening I strive to ensure that each client feels heard, respected, and valued. While I am empathetic, non-judgmental, open, honest, and personable, I can also take a more direct approach when communicating with my clients who prefer that style.

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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