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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Sharon (Shonnie) Brown

Offering therapy in California
License: M.A.,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesADHD
30 years of experience

Hello! I'm a northern California native and have lived much of my adult life adapting to other cultures. Life's challenges and transitions, including divorce and shyness, have facilitated my growth as a psychotherapist, helping me to accept change as part of life. I received my B.A. from UC Berkeley and my M.A. in counseling psychology from JFK University in Orinda, CA. I have 25+ years experience as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), working primarily with individuals and couples. I have facilitated groups on separation and divorce, infidelity, co-parenting education, and social anxiety. Particular areas of interest are: major life transitions, separation and divorce, infidelity, couples and relationship counseling, broken friendships, self-esteem issues, young adulthood, employment issues, parenting, and aging issues. I am also a professional writer and use writing as a tool for emotional healing.. My work is honest, direct, and from the heart. I use a variety of approaches, including cognitive and solution-focused therapies, family systems, and psychodynamic. Recently I have incorporated Pete Walker, MFT’s roadmap on childhood trauma (Complex PTSD) into my work. An inability to self-soothe or tolerate one’s own feelings (i.e. hurt, anger, jealousy, guilt, fear) is the underlying main issue for my clients. The other main issue is lack of self-compassion, self-protection, and self-love. I use tools such as goal setting, coping skills, mindfulness exercises, and writing exercises (as desired) along with building a strong therapeutic relationship. Life is delicate and fragile. I work on optimism and gratitude every day. As human beings we can only take one step at a time. Please consider contacting me as a step toward the change you want in your life.

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Carrie Bican

Offering therapy in California
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Welcome! I believe "Hardships are a detour not a dead end" so I thank you for having the strength to reach out. I started working with most in need populations while attending California Lutheran University, where I graduated with a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marital and Family Therapy. I am currently a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California. Working as a school based-counselor in ventura county school system and primary clinician in psychiatric, I have experienced the complexities of family relationships, stress and anxiety, grief and loss, phase of life changes, work related issues, motivation, self-esteem, adjustment disorders and of course persistent diagnosis as well such as Depression. I am compassionate for how we experience the world as an individual and in the collective. I am a person-centered therapist who uses an integrated approach to working with individuals. This allows for a more personal experience instead of the same set curriculum for all. Even though I pull knowledge from all theories and practices, I use Family Systems Theory, Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Theory and Mindfulness practices often. I can also help you strengthen coping skills, life skills, independent living skills and awareness or insight skills. I appreciate Carl Jung's perspective that there is not a linear path in life or in psychology. We often need to look at life and self from different angles and with many different strategies. I honor your consideration of having me as part of your life and space. I look forward to working with you!

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Deborah Sterling

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionADHD
3 years of experience

My name is Deborah Sterling and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I graduated from California State University, San Bernardino with a Master's Degree in Social Work with an emphasis on child welfare. I worked over 20 years with children and families involved in the foster care system. I also have experience working with teens and adults in a therapeutic setting. I practice supportive therapy influenced by Cognitive Behavioral Theory. I utilize various modalities including traditional talk therapy. I have a broad range of experience in knowledge including but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Child Development, Adolescents, Family Therapy, and Individual Therapy.

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Dr. Carol Antosh

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Hello: My name is Dr. Carol Antosh and I am licensed in the state of California as an Educational Psychologist as well as Marriage and Family Psychotherapist. I am also board certified as a School Neuropsychologist and have have significant experience with neuro-diversity and autism . My educational background includes receiving a Ph.D. in Psychology; and I enjoy enhancing my knowledge and treatment approaches with continuing education. I maintain over 30 years of professional work experience. Most recently, I have focused on helping clients to best cope with grief and loss, relationship issues, family conflicts. and motivational issues related to depression and loneliness. I maintain the position that the therapeutic setting must be 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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Dr. syma ralston

Offering therapy in California
License: PsyD,HSPP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

I am an experienced clinical psychologist who has worked with individual adults of all ages, with couples and with families. I have been a director of training and have educated doctoral level interns. I have supervised mental health professionals, worked as director of the Counseling Center at Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley, as Chief Clinician at Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley, and as a Supervising Psychologist at Walter Reed Medical Center. I have had a private practice throughout my career. I am especially interested in providing couples counseling and working with individuals who have have suffered trauma, whether in childhood or adulthood, whether as civilians or while in the military. I am open to treating people of all cultures, religions , races and sexual orientations. I use whichever approach works best for my clients, helping them achieve their goals.

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Stefan Bain

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
30 years of experience

Hello. My name is Stefan Bain and I am a Clinical Therapist (MSW, LCSW, MPH, CST/Certified Sex Therapist) with over 30 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. Educated at UC Berkeley, with post graduate school training at Stanford University and the Veteran's Health Care System. My therapy practice is focused on men, helping men achieve wholeness and wellness. Men's issues with which I work include anger management, addiction, anxiety and depression, trauma, infidelity, parenting, loss, aging, relationships, career transitions, stress, and sex/ sexuality issues, including intimacy issues, performance issues, body acceptance, sexual identity exploration, coming out, healing from sexual trauma, and porn addiction. My therapy style is warm and interactive and my therapeutic approaches are based on best-practice and are evidence-based. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. One of the main goals of therapy is to provide you with the tools you will need to be successful long after treatment ends; therapy is just one step in your total wellness; the goal is to be whole; however you define it.

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Marianna Birdsong

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Greetings, I'm Marianna Birdsong, an LCSW situated in Southern California, offering telehealth services statewide. My practice specializes in aiding adults facing anxiety, stress, and life transitions through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Client-Centered Therapy, tailored to meet individual needs. I believe therapy should be customized for each client. I primarily employ CBT and Client-Centered Therapy but remain flexible to adapt techniques as required. My path to becoming a therapist has been diverse, encompassing roles such as an Emergency Medical Technician, and peer counselor. Through these experiences, I've developed a deep appreciation for helping others achieve personal growth and self-awareness.

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Tracy Ward

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 30 years of professional work experience. I have over 10 years of providing direct mental health services. My areas of focus are relationship issues, trauma, abuse, coping with grief and loss, general motivation, addressing self-esteem concerns, and building confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Jerry Mermis

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 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. 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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Cheryle Lynn Roberts

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

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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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