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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Dina Velazquez

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

Hello, my name is Dina Velazquez and I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist currently living on the east coast. I have over ten years experience as a therapist, in both the Community Mental Health model and doing clinical assessments for a health insurance carrier. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling at Pacifica Graduate Institue in Carpinteria, CA. My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, and substance use issues. My approach is client centered while also incorporating the use of other skills including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, solution focused and some Cognitive Behavioral therapies. I feel that each of our experiences are unique, and may require different avenues to attain wellness. Also experienced in: Addictions , LGBT , Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Physical Disabilities, Coping with life changes

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Dr. Alexa Wasserman

Offering therapy in California
License: PsyD,MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

Welcome to your journey toward healing and wholeness. ✨ Whether you feel completely overwhelmed by life or are just looking for some support, I hope you recognize that by reaching out you have already overcome one of the most difficult parts of the journey. What gives me the authority to make such a claim? I stand by this belief as a product of my 20 years of clinical experience practicing as a psychologist but more profoundly based on my own personal journey toward healing and wholeness. It is my goal to ensure a positive, trusting therapeutic relationship so that we can create a safe place to work through whatever difficulties you may be facing. I believe in setting collaborative goals with my clients to help them with their areas of need, while also empowering them to use their strengths to overcome difficulties. To reach this end, I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches that incorporate cognitive-behavioral, client-centered and solution focused techniques. I also value the use of mindfulness techniques when my clients feel comfortable doing so. It would be an honor and pleasure to accompany you on your personal journey! ✨

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Kimberly Jackson-Massaro

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
14 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & coping with life changes. I believe that you have the resources you need inside to move through life’s challenges and together we will explore how to utilize these strengths. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am grateful to be with you on this journey.

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John Gilbert

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepression
30 years of experience

John Gilbert LMFT, MBA, CHt. Licensed since 2000, John has worked from the state hospital system to private practice. A former Music Therapist and a Certified Hypnotherapist, John brings creativity and a breadth experience to the therapeutic session. John specializes in working with personal development, relationship issues, family held businesses, adolescents, and chronic pain. John says “So many people are stuck in the prison of the mind by negative feelings, past life events, and fear. Proper treatment can free them to have the life they want, the life they were meant to have.” Due to my level of licensure, it is rare that any letter provided by me other than verification of treatment carries any weight. If as part of treatment you will need some documentation, please check that my licensure (California, USA-Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist) is acceptable to whomever is requesting the documentation. I want to make sure I can meet all your needs.

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Desiree Alvarado

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

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of California and Texas. I have more than 10 years of combined professional experience working in child welfare and abuse, domestic violence, mental health court programs, substance use disorders and complex trauma. As well as working with law enforcement/first responders. *EMDR trained therapist *Certification in Domestic Violence Peer Counseling and Advocacy *Certification in Child forensic Interviewing *Currently working on a Drug and Alcohol Counselor Certification I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I work within a client centered focus forum and frequently utilize cognitive behavioral therapy. My focus is to help you unravel those thoughts/behaviors that create negative responses in your life and guide you through developing realistic tools that will yield a positive outcome, whatever that may look like to you. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I believe in establishing rapport and trust with my clients, so they are able to feel as open as needed to unpack things that hinder you from being your best self. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support and guide you through that process.

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Robyn Ramsay

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesADHD
20 years of experience

I am a California Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in successfully helping Teens, Couples, and Adults of all ages with stress and anxiety, obsessive thinking (OCD), relationship issues, family conflicts, abandonment issues, depression & trauma and abuse. I treat all my clients with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. It takes courage to take that first step toward seeking a more fulfilling and happier life . I am here to support you in that process. I will meet you on your journey toward better mental health and tailor our sessions and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific need by drawing from my eclectic variety of sources : • Attachment theory • Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) • Developmental Model for Couples • EMDR • Emotionally-Focused Therapy • Exposure Response Prevention (OCD) • Family Systems • Gottman Relationship Method for Couples • Internal Family Systems (IFS) • Positive Psychology • Strength-Based Therapy

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Lyana Murrell

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

Welcome. You've made it this far, and this tells me you already have the most crucial tool to take care of yourself. Still, are you feeling powerless about the realities of your life? Is your body, soul, and/or support systems exhausted in a manner that makes it hard to imagine another way of being? I am a psychotherapist who is committed to uplifting every unique person's vision for, dignity within, and care of themselves. I am licensed in California with over 7 years of experience working with individuals, families, and groups seeking relief from pain rooted in trauma or violence, grief or loss, anxiety, depression, self-esteem concerns, disruptions in identity or phase of life development, persistent relationship struggles, and lifestyle burnout. Today, taking any step to seeking a more fulfilling as well as easier life takes courage. With the variety of therapeutic approaches I use, in all I believe that you are the driver of your story and can best determine what your path to healing will look like throughout your life. I am here to support and accompany you as you take on this difficult, but meaningful shift.

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Gregory Putzka

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesSelf esteem
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy related issues, & parenting issues. 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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Andrew Davis

Offering therapy in California
LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California, Florida and Oregon with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Ariana Allgeier

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

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.

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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