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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Emily Schwimmer

Offering therapy in California
License: M.A., LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

Hello! Good for you reaching out for support today. You are taking a big, worthwhile step! I've been practicing for over 24 years in Sunny Southern California working with adult individuals and couples. My experience is working with mild issues and symptoms around stress, anxiety and feelings of sadness, life transitions and career issues, grief and relationship issues, focusing more on the present and moving forward. I provide a safe space to explore and process the feelings and issues you are experiencing. It's not about getting rid of your feelings but rather learning how to manage them in a more healthy way; learning how to have your thoughts and feelings work together rather than against each other! It's usually best to work through your issues rather than ignoring them or trying to push them aside. I want to help up you live a more joyful life and experience fulfilling relationships. My style would be best described as eclectic. It's based loosely on the foundation of cognitive-behavioral theories and then adapts to each person's unique needs utilizing my experience, empathy and compassion to help you move forward in life. I find that weekly phone calls are the most beneficial with the option of brief messaging in-between appointments if you like. Please do not make any appointments on the platform's calendar before we discuss it. Please note I don't work with EAP subscribers or those submitting bills to an insurance company For those subscribers that are interested, I also focus on the mind-body connection, which includes learning how to live more in the moment. Living more in the moment, rather than being stuck in the past or worried about the future, makes life all the more peaceful and joyful. Mind/body connection exercises for example, include deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation (tensing and releasing different muscle groups), guided imagery and mindful walking ( a more active form of meditation). All these exercises can help achieve the body's Relaxation Response - physically relaxed and mentally alert. It's what I like to call, "Calm Energy." Research has shown that the Relaxation Response helps in the Reduction of pain, stress, anxiety, fatigue, irritability as well as reducing blood pressure and the stress hormone levels in our bodies. It's been shown to help Increase energy, motivation, productivity and improve decision-making abilities. Although we won't be working face-to-face, you can still learn and benefit from these exercises through instructive emails and/or telephone sessions.

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Cynthia Luellen

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I’m Here to Help ! My goal is to create a safe space for you to share your pain. I strongly believe working together in a strong supportive, professional relationship is an important key to a great outcome. For 20 plus years, I have had the joy of helping individuals, groups and families to resolve a wide range of problems and reduce emotional distress. With compassion and empathy, I will help to restore your equilibrium in distressing times, so you can become functional again. If you have unresolved issues from childhood, I am exceptionally trained to handle that as well. We can go as deep as you desire—It’s up to you. Working in partnership, we will identify your strengths, then use them as a springboard to gain a more enjoyable life. We will work to help you gain important insight into issues which have become stumbling blocks, then devise strategies to help reduce the pain, along with acquiring skills to cope more effectively. SPECIALITIES Depression/Anxiety Family Conflicts Trauma and abuse Motivation, self esteem and confidence Unresolved issues from children Co-Dependency Other Specialities Losses and grief, coping with life changes, work stress, self- sabotage

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Dr. Kathleen Ayers

Offering therapy in California
License: PsyD
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
32 years of experience

I am a clinical psychologist, licensed in California since 2001. I have extensive experience in helping people who have chronic pain and other chronic medical conditions. I use a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy. I am also certified in CBT for insomnia. I am interested in the role that nutrition and diet play in health and have certifications in this area (though I am not a dietitian or nutritionist). I enjoy working with individuals and groups. While many people think of CBT and being matter-of-fact and rooted only in the present, it is much more than that, allowing for exploration of past issues in a safe environment while working on present concerns and issues. It does often include homework, and I do give homework assignments. My many years of experience have taught me that I make a living from others' misfortunates, accidents, and tragedies. This realization makes me caring and compassionate. All too often, those with chronic pain and chronic medical conditions feel that they are not believed when they report their physical problems and pain levels. My goal is to provide a safe, caring , and accepting environment for people to discuss their concerns. I have recently developed an interest in also providing help to people who have been traumatized by paranormal experiences.

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Cheri Williams

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

I am licensed in California with 14 plus years of professional work experience. I specialize in in helping clients with anxiety, stress and depression as well as parenting issues, motivation, self-esteem, confidence and Autism. I also have experience and expertise in treating couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen emotional intimacy. Additionally, I have an understanding of Christian faith-based issues and am committed to providing a compassionate, holistic approach that integrates mental health and faith. Whether you're looking for guidance on personal struggles or relational difficulties, I'm here to walk alongside you, offering practical tools and insights to help you find peace and healing 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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Judy Davis-Farash

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 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, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Nina Glassman

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, career difficulties, & 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. 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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Christopher Trujillo

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship 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 and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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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Sneha Carr

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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. 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. (Due to conflict of interest, please no Kaiser Permanente patients.)

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Katherine Meyers

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

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, career difficulties, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jessica Rose Kubas

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesCoachingCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California since 2017. I have facilitated people since 1987. If you want to get relief for your stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, & confidence concerns, I am your gal. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you are strong enough. If you already know your story and are seeking actual relief and change, and if you are action and homework-focused, come. I would be honored to be your facilitator. You are The Lead and I am The Follow-facilitator. We work on archetypes, listening skills, and mental clarification for feeling better. You can do this; I know you can.

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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