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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Douglas Glen

Offering therapy in California
License: M.A.,LMFT
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health professional in California with over 10 years of experience working as a Psychotherapist and Marriage & Family counselor. Born and educated in the UK, I bring a wealth of life experience from living and working in Europe before moving to the US. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I have also helped many people who have experienced trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Daniel Romo

Offering therapy in California
License: M.A., LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
9 years of experience

Welcome, My name is Daniel Romo and I am in the field of helping people feel that they matter. I was born and raised in Southern California. I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology at California State University Fullerton and Masters of Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) with a Specialization in Trauma and Latinx Studies at Pacific Oaks College. I started practicing therapy and completed my trainee-ship providing School-Based services to elementary and secondary schools in the Pasadena area and DIS Designated Instructional Services for a non-public school and a Non-profit organization in the Pasadena area in 2015. In 2011 I started working in the mental health field servicing at-risk youth and families at a residential level 14 facility as a Mental Health Wellness Specialist providing life skills and helping youth improve their cognitive functioning. I have utilized the skills I have gained through my education and prior positions as a Mental Health Therapist at various non-profit agencies and as a Community Wellness Specialist by assisting clients in planning short-term and long-term goals, while being sensitive to their backgrounds and specific needs. I believe that individuals of all backgrounds require assistance and support in setting goals and meeting them, from a professional who is cognizant and accommodating of limitations and diversity. My experience working at various non-profits has afforded me the opportunity to develop therapeutic skills and expand on personal attributes vital to the therapeutic process. Providing therapeutic services with various non-profits has also enabled me to interact with and assist at-risk youth through individual, family, and group counseling on issues ranging from severe mental health diagnoses like depression disorders, psychotic disorders, attention and impulse-control disorders, anger management, interpersonal relationship difficulties and substance abuse. As a result, I have become more adept at interacting with clients from a variety of backgrounds including the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community and have developed a passion for helping clientele that might not otherwise have access to therapeutic services, except through a community agency. I am dedicated to fostering a safe environment and working with each individual to develop customized plans to improve their quality of life. As a Mental Health Therapist, my approach is client and culturally centered. I have worked at various non-profit agencies and have been trained in a variety of approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Family Systems, Object Relations, Existential/Humanistic, and what I have found in working with individuals and families is approaching therapy by fostering a safe environment and working with each individual to develop a customized plan to improve their quality of life.

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David Meza

Offering therapy in California
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

I am grateful for the opportunity to serve people struggling with anxiousness distress, depression, and trauma related conditions. My clinical goal is always to help build a therapeutic relationship that is supported by trust, authenticity & compassion. This is your safe and confidential space to heal your emotional and mental wounds. I am all about tailoring my treatment approaches to best meet your therapeutic needs. I want you to know you are not alone, and I really look forward accompanying you throughout your healing journey. My experience of 15 yrs. is working with adults, children & families, crisis management, and mental health services for military veterans. My specialties include compassion inquiry for trauma healing & wounded parts work, stress & anger management, Acceptance & Commitment therapy, Internal Family Systems & depression management. I am only allowed by California Licensing laws to serve California residents.

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Dr. Megan Tsang

Offering therapy in California
License: PsyD
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am a clinical psychologist in the state of California, and I have been licensed since 2009. I have trained and worked in a variety of settings helping individuals with a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment disorders, as well as other mental health diagnoses such as bipolar disorder. I enjoy helping and supporting others through challenging episodes in their life. My therapy style can be described as judgment free and supportive yet goal oriented and solution focused. The approaches to therapy that I often utilize include cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and client centered therapy; however, depending on the presenting concerns and goals may sometimes utilize an analytical or existential approach. I think that seeking out support takes courage, and my goal is to create a safe and welcoming experience. I look forward to working with you.

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Jason Wright

Offering therapy in California
License: PhD,LPCC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
26 years of experience

I am a doctoral-level, licensed professional clinical counselor (CA) and licensed professional counselor (VA), with over 30 years of experience working with adults experiencing a diverse range of challenges, from depression, anxiety, OCD and substance use; to PTSD and trauma-related issues (including psychogenic seizures and psychogenic movement disorders). I have published an article on my work with psychogenic seizures in Counseling Today, a publication of the American Counseling Association. My expertise is in providing individual psychotherapy to adults. My counseling style is person-centered, engaging, warm and collaborative. I believe the hallmark of a good therapist is to be a good listener first and foremost, and then to possess the knowledge and expertise needed to apply a broad range of holistic interventions tailored to the meet your unique needs and working style. I utilize cognitive-behavioral interventions, as well as existential/humanistic, solution-focused, motivational, and psychodynamic approaches to help you reach your goals. I have the utmost respect for anyone who is willing to help themselves - a better tomorrow and brighter horizon awaits those who are up for the task, and I am here to help you as you move towards that brighter tomorrow. I look forward to working with you!

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Alexis Tyson

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
9 years of experience

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist committed to helping individuals pinpoint and solve emotional, mental and interpersonal problems. My work focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habits, and beliefs that interfere with your daily life. I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals. I have 9 years of experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma and addiction. Under the umbrella of a humanistic, existential, and cognitive behavior-based approach, modalities used in treatment include Client Centered Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, CBT, and mindfulness-based interventions. If you’re struggling to cope with anxiety, trauma, depression or addiction, I can help you navigate these struggles, and together find a path forward. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you.

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Dr. Hal Levine

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
45 years of experience

I am a licensed psychotherapist in California, and I hold degrees as a Licensed Marriage-Family-Therapist and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I’ve been in the field for over 40 years, including mental health clinics, residential, psychiatric, emergency response, and private practices. I’ve worked in professional positions in both Social Services and Behavioral Mental Health. Concomitantly, I’ve dedicated myself to be the best person I can be so that I may serve others. This has included a Spiritual Path, where I have completed a Doctorate of Spiritual Science degree. I don’t see this as a terminal degree as I will continue self-exploration to be the best person I can be for the rest of my life. So, along with having a strong clinical background, I personally value all that I have learned in Spiritual Psychology. I will offer you practical solutions to living one’s life in a healthy way, and with it, clear and concise ways that you can transform your life in profound and meaningful ways. This is offered without judgment and in a supportive atmosphere of loving and compassion. I will share with you my own professional experience, my personal growth, and the lessons I’ve learned from my spiritual journey while always focusing in on you, where you are at, and your needs. Clinically, I will offer practical solutions to help you resolve issues quickly. This involves a reduction in stress and anxiety, how to have healthy relationships, resolving trauma and abuse, increasing motivation (reducing depression), letting go of addictions, building self-esteem, understanding dynamic themes in one’s life, and finding practical ways to finally feel good about yourself. I strive to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and ultimately to experience Joy. When was the last time you declared to yourself, “I love being me, I love my life.” Let’s create this together.

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Stephanie Mejia

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf 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 and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Marisol Vigil

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with 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. 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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Wendy Aguirre

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
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, family conflicts, trauma, & abuse. 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. 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 BetterHelp therapists in California does not offer diagnostic or medication management services in therapy.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor or therapists?

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, working with:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders requiring therapy
  • Anxiety disorders in need of therapeutic support
  • Depression or depressive mental health conditions
  • Adjustment issues in need of therapeutic support
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief therapy
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma therapy
  • Relationship conflicts and mental health concerns

Finding a therapist in California 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 therapy site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the therapy 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 therapy with a licensed therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person California therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $65 to $100 per week. 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.

Is it possible to find a therapist, counselor, or psychology practitioner that offers affordable therapy?

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.

What can a psychologist help me with in therapy?

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 in-person or online therapy with a therapist in California?

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.

Are online therapy sessions 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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