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. Trina Hamas

Offering therapy in California
License: PsyD,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
16 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Dr. Trina Hamas and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I have over ten years of experience providing therapeutic services for individuals, couples, and families. My expertise lies in alleviating symptoms related to depression, anxiety, abuse, trauma, grief and loss, family dysfunction, relationship issues, chronic pain, as well as issues related to motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. My style of therapy is collaborative, integrative, and considerate of cultural influences. I believe the most effective treatment is one that encourages the active participation of my clients so that my understanding of their needs is thorough and accurate, and therapeutic goals are meaningful and realistic. I want my clients to feel welcomed, listened to, and empowered. I strive to understand their cultural and personal backgrounds so they feel the changes they are working towards are consistent with their values and beliefs. I am trained extensively in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which means I tend to focus on the connection between thoughts and behaviors. I find the use of CBT is effective in helping clients understand their dysfunction in practical ways and allows them to gain a sense of authority and agency over their lives. I am also an expert in Family Systems Theory and am partial to Virginia Satir's work, specifically her theories related to communication and human validation. I use CBT and Satir approaches together to create a safe and effective place for clients to feel comfortable while working through their issues in a practical way. I may also draw from other interventions, such as mindfulness practices and relaxation techniques. I also “practice what I preach.” I believe in the importance of self-care and healthy relationships. I do not ask of my clients that which I am unwilling to ask myself. If you are ready to begin your journey, I am here to support you along the way.

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Aviva Euripides

Offering therapy in California
License: M.A.,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

Hello, I am Aviva Euripides and I am pleased to meet you here. Our clinical work involves tracking and assessing how it assists you in meeting your goals. This solution focused work is thus overall practical but is rooted in academic and clinical rigor. I graduated from the University of California at Berkeley and attended New College of California where the focus was on meeting the clinical needs of a diverse community with relevance and meaning. I have supervised and trained clinicians in treatment settings ranging from the counselor's office to acute mental health facilities. This has led to a deep understanding of clinical work. My specializations include depression, anxiety, life changes, self esteem, career and relationships. These are all human issues and are in need sometimes of clinical intervention as a tool and resource. The work begins with me listening carefully to where the pieces are at in your puzzle at this time. This allows for us to consider rearrangement and repositioning to best work for you. I have extensive experience providing counseling via telephone and online platforms and thus feel quite comfortable doing so. While this may be new to some it may resemble other aspects of life online in significant ways. Like counseling, it just takes some getting used to. I typically have appointments available via live chat between 10 am and 4 pm Monday-Friday and appointments available early mornings and weekends via video/phone session.

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Raquel Buchanan

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

Hello and Welcome! My name is Raquel Buchanan and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT #118976) and doctoral candidate who has dedicated my practice to assisting both victims and offenders of violence, abuse, and trauma. I am comfortable working in high stress situations including those with severe mental health issues, and chronic conflict. I am a certified domestic violence counselor and have worked with county probation providing therapy to men and women who use violence or abuse in their intimate relationships, and provide individual counseling to people who want to stop their use of violence. I specialize in treating self-esteem issues related to interpersonal trauma focusing on the impact that childhood abuse or neglect has on emotional and mental health. I am a self-esteem therapist who focuses on building coping skills, finding your hidden strengths and talents, and getting you out of negative thought patterns that keep you stuck. I have assisted many of my clients overcome issues like addiction, relationship conflict, depression, and anxiety related disorders. The best compliment I have ever received was that my therapeutic approach “was like talking to a friend.” The therapy I provide is intensive in nature using both the text and video feature to assist you during your therapeutic process. You should expect to have regular communication with me including weekly sessions and check ins. Your care is important to me, I look forward to working with you.

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Tyler Cole

Offering therapy in California
License: LPC,LPCC,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience

Hi, welcome to the BetterHelp community. I want to commend you for the courage it took to take the first steps in seeking support at this time. My name is Tyler Cole and I am a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor in the states of California, Colorado, and Washington. I am also a Nationally Certified Counselor and bring with me 7+ years of experience working in a wide variety of settings. I have experience providing counseling across a spectrum of diverse individual and family needs in community clinics, schools, residential care, and private practice. Throughout my experience I have had the opportunity to support individuals and families in working toward and meeting their goals in a wide array of considerations including: managing depression and anxiety, overcoming situational stress, finding opportune work-life balance, enhancing and improving communication and relationship fulfillment, and fostering overall improved inter and intrapersonal wellbeing. Additionally, I have advanced training and experience in addressing concerns related to trauma and abuse, parenting and family concerns, and attachment dynamics. I am a firm believer in the research that indicates that the counseling experience will only be as helpful as the strength of the therapeutic alliance. As such, I take pride in working to create an accepting, non-judgmental, supportive, and safe space in which we can work together. It is my goal to fully understand your story, values, goals, and relationships that are of the most importance to you in order assist you in reaching your goals. Most often, individuals and families tend to know, intuitively, what they want and need and then tend to move in that direction when barriers can be navigated around. My role is to compassionately assist in navigating any potential areas where things are feeling stuck and unhelpful. Some of my approaches to our shared work include the use of techniques derived from Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR. However, each of these evidence-based interventions are grounded in a firm commitment to a client-centered and strengths-based approach that highlights the individual and family as the expert on your life and needs. Reaching out for support is not always an easy or clear decision to make. Again, I commend you for taking this step. Whether I have the opportunity to work with you or not, I wish you all the best in your endeavors to improve your overall wellbeing.

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Susan Cristol

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionADHD
15 years of experience

When a therapist is welcoming and non-judgmental, it is much easier to seek help. I am passionate about working with clients to find more effective communication strategies. You can make positive changes in your life. There are ways to regulate anger and anxiety and I can help. I can also show you the path toward healing unresolved grief and loss, as well as trauma. These issues can keep you from living your best life without shame and sadness. I have spent most of my working life in a helping profession. I have been providing counseling for 14 years. Before becoming a licensed therapist, I had a career as a special education teacher. That experience informs my work today whether I am working with children, adolescents, couples or adults. I stay current on clinical research and the many writings in the areas of psychology, sociology and marriage and family therapy. My specialized training includes (but not limited to) cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma and abuse, domestic violence and play therapy. I look forward to meeting potential clients and joining them in their path toward becoming their best selves and living their best lives. I have an eclectic toolbox that includes many aspects of different psychological theories and interventions. At the beginning, there is an assessment process taking place for the first few sessions. I determine at that time what drawer in the toolbox would work most effectively. I may have the client complete certain questionnaires as part of the assessment. Throughout therapy, there is a fine tuning of the process. It is important to mention that during the initial phase of therapy, the primary focus is on meeting the client where they are. This is a collaborative relationship that is driven by the direction the client needs to go and my experience and knowledge in helping them get there. I am very curious and observant, as every good therapist should be. Some of the therapies I utilize are Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic and Narrative. We can certainly go into greater detail about these orientations when we meet.

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Gregory Davenport

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hello there! I have been working in the mental health and addiction field profession for 10 years. I use an eclectic approach, however, the theoretical frameworks that most define me professionally combine unconditional positive regard, spiritual/faith-based and cognitive-behavioral theory. My style is pragmatic, professional, down-to-earth, and based upon professional and personal-life experiences. I have a unique ability to therapeutically join with clients which is partly due to my personality, style and vernacular. I am an eclectic counselor that utilizes multiple theories such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Solution-Focused Therapy. What is it like to work with me? Humor - Let's face it, therapy, counseling, or whatever you'd like to call it does NOT always have to be so serious. I enjoy the fact that my client's and I can laugh together. I believe that laughter is so important when exploring topics that are difficult and challenging. Culturally Sensitive - I have worked with many clients over the years that come from all walks of life. That includes culturally, ethnically, religiously, spiritually, age, or socioeconomic status, I respect and value all my clients for who they are. The truth is that we all have a history, and that history is part of our story to be told and valued. My Educational Credentials: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in CA (BBS) Substance Abuse Professional (NAADAC) Master of Science in Addiction Counseling (Grand Canyon University) Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (Argosy University) For my professional growth, I continuously read related literature, keep myself up to date with the ethical and legal guidelines in the field, and the latest research, and attend trainings. I look forward to working with you and being a part of your journey.

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Marcia Pontoni

Offering therapy in California
LGBTRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 25 years of professional experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, anxiety and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I use different treatment types such as Cognitive Behavioral therapy and utilize mindfulness in my work with clients. 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. I work best in the video and telephone modalities. I work part-time for Better Help. My primary availability is Tuesdays and Fridays and I can be flexible as needed. I look forward to working with you.

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Lindsey Yarbrough

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

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have over a decade of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have experience working with a broad range of issues such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse and chemical dependence and/or other mental illnesses, dissatisfaction with life or relationships, challenges with friends and families, coping with life and or job stress, life changes and challenges, trauma, and loss. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, my focus is on relationships and working toward healthy relationships. I am happy to work with anyone seeking to improve their relationships, whether they are struggling with maintaining their relationship with themselves, their family, or their significant other. I believe that a healthy relationship with yourself is the first step to being healthy in all of your relationships. I encourage my clients to become more open to possibilities and flexible with change. I provide a safe and secure, private setting for my clients to be free to be themselves, openly and candidly. Thank you for taking the time to help yourself, I look forward to getting to know you better.

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Mary Haye

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, marital conflict, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I work with Evidence Based Treatment approaches, and I offer a Christian based approach for couples who have requested to share their religious views on marriage. My sessions are intended to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to take the first steps towards getting help to resolve relationship problems or help to manage stress and/ or alleviate anxiety. Getting the proper tools may help you with the support that you need or getting you to the referrals that you need. I am here to support you in that journey.

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Shanene Romero

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California and have three years of professional experience working with couples and in a residential treatment facility. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. The first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I also offer faith-based therapy for those wanting to incorporate their spiritual beliefs in recovery. It'll be a pleasure getting to know you. Thank you for beginning this journey with me.

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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