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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Collin McShirley

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigue
9 years of experience

It is my intention to meet you where you are, with my full presence and experience, honoring your inherent wisdom and all that has brought you to this place. Taking steps to create a more fulfilling life may be one of the most profound actions one can undertake. I have over 10 years or counseling experience and specialize in working with anxiety. I use CBT, and client centered therapy to help you reach your goals. I have a Masters in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University. I believe that walking this path requires developing a curious and accepting relationship with oneself as well as being witnessed and supported by another - be they a therapist, partner, friend or family member. I am committed to value your strengths, be a companion in your struggles, and support you in deepening your relationship to yourself and others.

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Ethan Messer

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT #128272
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

Hello, my name is Ethan Messer, I am a licensed marriage & family therapist with 14 years of experience working in an array of settings within the mental health field. I have worked with clients in such settings as youth groups, YMCA after school & summer programs, adolescent group homes, adult crisis homes, faith-based transitional living programs, Long Term Psychiatric Residential Facilities, as well as working in private practice. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including; depression, communication and intimacy issues among couples, social anxiety, relationship issues, stress, parenting issues, family issues, emotional issues and anxiety. As a therapist, I am warm, relational, respectful and engaged with my clients. I truly do love walking with others through their trials, their pain and their joy. It is humbling, and an honor to be entrusted with the hearts of others and to be involved in the lives of others. This is a reality that I am constantly aware of as I continue meeting with others in therapy. My approach to therapy is relational, and combines cognitive-behavioral, client centered, solution-focused and emotionally-focused therapy. I work collaboratively with clients during our sessions in order to build a strong therapeutic alliance, to create treatment plans, prioritize goals, and provide free-flowing dialogue, so that they will most accurately meet your specific needs. Therapy takes courage. It is not easy to work towards our own personal growth, or the growth of others in our lives. You have already taken a crucial step in this direction, to which I applaud your efforts. As you continue moving towards wellness and growth in your life, I am here to support you, empower you and to walk with you through this period of your life. I am humbled and honored for the opportunity to meet and work with you.

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Dr. Michelle White

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
7 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I had two years working in private practice and two years in community mental health in offering individual and group psychotherapy, and psychological assessment services in diagnosis ADHD, Autism, depression, intellectual developmental disorder, general anxiety disorder, and OCD. I received training in providing trauma-sensitive clinical services within a psychodynamic theoretical framework that draws from object relations and attachment theory. I also utilize cognitive behavioral therapy. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, relationships struggles, and 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 takes courage. Warm regards, Dr. Michelle

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Keturah Baker

Offering therapy in California
LGBTRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesDepression
13 years of experience

Hello beautiful people. My most treasured skill as a therapist but most importantly as a human is the ability to connect and relate with almost any one no matter your race, gender, culture, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or age. I am learning in practice and in life that no matter how old, young, accomplished or established we become there will always be a natural human yearning we carry to feel like we belong and that we matter to others. I have experience in the following: Individual therapy Family Therapy Couples Therapy Group Therapy Adults Infant/Children/Adolescents Grief and Loss Foster Care and Adoption Depression Anxiety PTSD Anger Suicidal Ideation Bipolar Parent-Child Relationships Interpersonal Relationships. As a therapist I believe a safe space is important for the client to be their true self and for growth and change to happen. This process only happens when trust is established. Whatever decision you make towards your health and wellness today know that life is a journey that can only happen one day at a time. I wish you well.

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Anthony Rivera

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
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, relationship issues, 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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Kathryn (Katie) Mason

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. I am also trained in EMDR protocol. 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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Kathleen Laub

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionADHD
29 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 29 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & depression. 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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Cheryl Gully

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, & 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. 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. Sarah Jimenez

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 30+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with depression. 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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Sade' Patterson

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

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience in mental health. Within my 10 years of providing service, 5 Years were Focused on Military Service Members & Families. Currently as a psychotherapist, I provide services to civilians and service members. I am dedicated to continuing to grow, I enjoy discovering innovative ways to serve those in need and consider myself as a dedicated lifelong learner. My clients describe me as an authentic, compassionate, and encouraging therapist who educates, provides a safe space for them to express themselves, and be understood while simultaneously being challenged to grow. My baseline and foundation for providing therapy is to have an unconditional-positive-therapeutic regard for my clients. Additionally, my approach is thorough, engaging, thoughtful, hopeful, person-centered and at times, challenging (when necessary). It is my goal to help my clients discover and/or reconnect with their higher self, increase peace and accept joy. I specialize in working with people who need guidance in the process to find their voice, improve self-esteem, recognize self-worth, rewire negative thinking patterns, increase hope, secure internal and external motivators, heal, develop, and thrive (living beyond survival)! I believe clients are the experts on their own situation and there’s so much to learn through actively listening. I value integrity, honesty, hard-work and education. As a social servant, it is my desire to assist individuals, families, groups and organizations meet their desired goals with emphasis in holistic wellness and social well-being.

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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