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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Karelin Wadkins

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

Hello! I’m Karelin Wadkins, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California with over 14 years of experience supporting adults, couples, and families. My practice focuses on helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, codependency, trauma, life transitions, and self-esteem challenges. I also have experience working with substance use concerns and the unique stressors of menopause and perimenopause. In therapy, I create a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your feelings and experiences with compassion. Using a blend of mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS), I’ll help you slow down, clarify your values, and build the tools to move toward the life you want to live. I approach my work with empathy, openness, and a genuine desire to understand and support each of my clients. Therapy is a collaborative journey, and I’m honored to walk alongside you as we navigate your challenges and uncover your strengths. Let’s work together to help you move through discomfort and toward a more fulfilling and authentic life. I look forward to meeting you!

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Jeremee (Mimi) Bouchard

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

As a therapist, I create a warm, safe, nonjudgmental environment for people to be able to open up and share their feelings and make sense of what is troubling them. I strive to empower people and help them realize the strength and potential they possess. My experience has prepared me well to be able to interact and connect with a wide variety of individuals from diverse backgrounds. I have 21 years experience working in the mental health field, 18 years of which as a therapist. I have a great deal of experience focusing on areas like relationship issues, parenting, communication skills, mood management, and conflict resolution. In my practice, I utilize a number of theoretical orientations and therapy styles, as I find that different techniques work with different people. I primarily draw from humanistic, positive psychology, cognitive behavioral, and solutions focused theories. My approach to therapy is meeting the client where they're at, I follow your lead. I begin by asking questions to get a sense of what kinds of things you're struggling with, and see if we can figure out a direction we want to move in. We go at a pace that you're comfortable with. Sometimes just having someone to talk with to help you identify and process your feelings can provide some relief, especially if there's a lot of stuff bottled up. Then we can work toward identifying areas of your life that you're not satisfied with, and develop some basic goals to drive our work together. *Please note that I currently only have availability Monday - Friday in the mornings/early afternoons.

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Lina Vielma

Offering therapy in California
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
20 years of experience

Welcome! My counseling style is caring, supportive and intentional. I treat everyone with compassion. Self-esteem, trauma, anxiety, depression, feeling of hopelessness, past trauma, emotional difficulties, and relational issues are my specialties. Being both Navajo Native American Indian and Filipino, I am compassionate toward cultural issues and concerns. I am compassionate and provide a calm, therapeutic space where you will be understood. You can explore your feelings, at a comfortable pace away from confusion. I will challenge you so that you can move toward a more productive life. Your journey is unique and I look forward to working with you.

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Jessica Whittington

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepressionADHD
10 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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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Carlos Cavazos

Offering therapy in California
License: MA, LPC
LGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
4 years of experience

Hi, Im Carlos, a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Sexologist and Relationship Coach . I have years of experience working with couples and individuals on relationships, communication, self esteem ,LGBT issues, various mental health disorders and have contributed my expertise to Health , Cosmopolitan , Well + Good, Bustle and other publications. I have a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Counseling. I currently provide Mental Health Consultation for a Fortune 500 company and provide therapy to the local LGBT community. Having worked in many settings including private practice, crisis residential clinics, and community mental health clinics has provided me the ability to assist all sort of individuals with all types of needs and backgrounds. I am a Kink and Poly Friendly Therapist whose approach is pretty eclectic, as everyone is different and has different needs. I do like Solution Focused approaches with an emphasis on Narrative therapy, to help my clients rewrite their past and create the bright future they deserve. I take a very modern approach to therapy and will work with you to help achieve a better you.

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Liena McCord

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepression
25 years of experience

My name is Liena Hsieh McCord, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have been providing mental health support to adults, adolescents, families, and couples for over 24 years in various settings. I have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, work concerns, and professional as well as personal relationship concerns. My clinical practice entails heightened sensitivity and awareness to diversity and cultural factors, such as race and ethnicity, racial trauma, generational differences, biculturality, LGBTQIA+ awareness, and more. I have a particularly strong passion for understanding and embracing diversity, especially when it comes to mental health impact on people of color. I am a first generation (and a half) Chinese American and speak Chinese Mandarin. My therapy approach is eclectic with a main goal of helping my clients become more aware of their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while increasing self-compassion and limiting self-judgment so that they can lead a content and satisfying life. My therapy style is solution-focused with a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy approach while helping my clients better understand their history so that they can continue to move forward. I commend you for coming this far and I hope you will find the right therapist for you to support you along this journey!

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Travis Yokota

Offering therapy in California
Parenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigueADHD
8 years of experience

I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California since 2004. I have experience in helping clients with parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & compassion fatigue. I will create with you an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Together we will craft a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals, then navigate the path toward healing and growth.

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Dr. Christopher Padalinski

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

I am a licensed psychologist in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with a vast array of issues: general and specific stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse (both historical and current or recent), motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and depression. I’m well versed in standard cognitive and behavioral therapy strategies but pride myself in my humanistic and existential focus and approach to life, life’s problems, and growth. I of course believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I applaud you taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life, as it takes genuine courage. I am honored to be a part of your process and I’m here to support you in that process.

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Alexcis Grushinski

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW,M. Ed
Self esteemCareer difficultiesBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Hi, I'm Alexcis! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I help people who long to feel stable and content. In working with clients I find that we all want to be physically, and emotionally healthy but hold ourselves back due to past and present difficulties. These barriers, keep us from moving forward and accomplishing our goals. Living a life of values does not guarantee a stress-free easy life. It can however help get through the tough times by keeping us on track to accomplish our goals. Life is hard and full of stress. I believe that through self-compassion, values, mindfulness, and a desire for something better will lead to a meaningful life. Please message me so that we can get scheduled to start your journey.

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Billy Wilson Jr.

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficulties
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with career difficulties. 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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Yerina Knoblock

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, licensed in California and Georgia with 19 years of professional experience. I currently serve a broad spectrum of clients. Among my areas of expertise are trauma, abuse, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, co-dependency and self-esteem. I am an interactive therapist. My therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing. Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. I understand that taking the first step toward seeking support is a significant decision, and I am here to guide you on your journey. While we can’t change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Whether you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.

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Katrina Bobo

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Kristine Fernandez

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
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, parenting issues, 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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Ana Rayo

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, coping with life changes, relationship issues. 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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Liset Salcedo

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

Hi! I’m Liset, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (#86352). I am a first-generation, Mexican American who provides therapy services via telehealth statewide. I provide therapy with a client-centered, collaborative, and culturally competent approach. My therapeutic style is eclectic, drawing from various evidence-based practices to tailor interventions to each client's unique needs. I prioritize building a strong therapeutic alliance and creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, valued, and understood.

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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