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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Maria Rios

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

Welcome! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California and I have been providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families seeking transformative growth since 2012, offering counseling across residential, outpatient, and private practice settings, including online platforms to ensure accessible, compassionate care for diverse clients. Prior to graduating with a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology, my background was established in education, working as a Montessori educator in Cambridge, MA and San Diego, CA (2005-2014), where I utilized didactic materials to promote academic growth and social skills for children ages 3-7. The heart and passion of my work is to provide you with an uninterrupted time and space for you to process and explore your thoughts and feelings and empower you to achieve your goals and realize your full potential. My therapeutic approach is rooted in C. Roger’s person-centered principles, fostering a safe and non-judgmental environment for reflection and self-discovery. I aim to bring clarity, awareness, peace, and harmony, prioritizing self-awareness. As a hope-based therapist, I offer an authentic and honest approach, empowering clients to reframe thoughts, cultivate healthy core beliefs, and tap into their innate resilience. I believe in each individual's inner strength and assist them in uncovering their power to drive positive change. Whether addressing personal growth or relationship issues, I help clients analyze dynamics, establish healthy boundaries, and foster self-worth, providing personalized guidance that resonates with their unique needs. I possess a robust clinical background, bolstered by esteemed training and experience. I integrate some of the leading, evidence-based psychological modalities. I have worked at McAlister Institute, a renowned outpatient and residential recovery center specializing in addiction and dual diagnoses for teens and adults (2012-2017), applying Motivational Interviewing (MI), the 12-step program, and psycho-education on dependency and generational trauma. Additionally, I have received comprehensive training from the A. Beck Institute, founded by the pioneer of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) (2018). I have also gained competence in Internal Family Systems (IFS) through the work of R. Schwartz (2020). Furthermore, I have expanded my expertise by completing the prestigious The Science of Well-Being course at Yale University, enhancing my ability to provide holistic, evidence-based care (2020). Recently, I have augmented my skills through specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) (2022) and Narcissistic Emotional Abuse (2023), solidifying my commitment to addressing complex mental health concerns and supporting survivors of emotional abuse. My areas of specialization include: Mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders); Self-esteem and identity issues; ADHD, OCD, and neurodiverse concerns; Relationship dynamics and conflict resolution; Narcissistic emotional abuse recovery; Parenting support and guidance; Substance dependency and co-dependency; Crisis management, stress reduction, and life adjustments. I look forward to working with you! 
Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (1-800-273-TALK)
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741-741

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Angelique Gettle

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

As a marriage and family therapist licensed in the state of California, I have over 25 years experience working with a diverse population; That experience has led me to help people with trauma, PTSD, women's issues, grief, addictions and attachment related disorders. I also utilize art therapy and animal therapy in my clinical practice. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, believing that every client is unique in their own perception and life experience. My approach combines a more humanistic, dynamic approach. I also enjoy rational-emotive based therapy and Minuchin’s Structural approach. It takes courage to seek therapy and to take those first steps toward actual change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to listen, support, and empower you to do so. I look forward to working with you!

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Julie Wilson

Offering therapy in California
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am warm, down-to-earth, intuitive, and often humorous in my approach. My work is highly relational, and is informed by the use of mindfulness, attachment theory, parts work, as well Depth Psychology. I focus not only on the obvious symptoms, but also existential issues and the unconscious. Taking each client’s unique experiences and needs into account, I tailor my approach to meet you where you are, providing a deeply non-judgmental, spacious, yet practical therapeutic container. I have two MA degrees: one in East-West Psych and one in Counseling Psych.

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Michelle Torres M

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuse
10 years of experience

In my clinical practice, I have had the privilege of working with individuals who have faced a range of complex issues. Many of my clients have experienced trauma and are in the process of exploring and reclaiming their identities as they navigate the impact of their past experiences. I also support clients who are working to uncover the underlying roots of their depression and anxiety, seeking not only relief from symptoms but also a deeper understanding of the factors contributing to their distress. Additionally, I have assisted clients who struggle with people-pleasing behaviors and difficulties in setting personal boundaries, guiding them towards greater self-assertion and empowerment. My approach centers on helping clients build insight into their unique challenges and develop effective, lasting strategies to improve their quality of life. My journey into becoming a therapist began with a natural interest in helping others, though I didn’t fully understand why until I recognized the pressing need for mental health support. As a minority, I’ve faced my own unique challenges, which opened my eyes to the broader needs within communities and fueled my drive to serve. I’ve seen firsthand how systemic issues affect people on every level—from macro to mezzo to micro—and how family traditions and cultural influences can shape our perspectives. These experiences have deepened my commitment to supporting individuals as they navigate these multifaceted challenges, helping them feel seen, understood, and empowered

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Brian Fernandez

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
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, depression, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, and building self-esteem. 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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Pablo Lo Giudice

Offering therapy in California
LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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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Toai Griffin

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
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, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & 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. 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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Melissa Vaswani

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, 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.

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Zaida Casillas

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, & 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. 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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John Milward

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping 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, relationship 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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