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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Sydney Erskine

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
AddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

My name is Sydney. I am a licensed MFT in the state of California. I completed my Masters in Psychology in 1994 and received my license as of January 2000. I have worked in centers for addiction treatment, dual diagnosis, and private practice in the bay area. I utilize a holistic approach with my clients customizing treatment as appropriate for the individual. This allows for the integration of our bio-psycho-social-spiritual self. My theoretical background includes, but is not limited to, in brief, Psychodynamics, and Bowen; investigating the systematic learned behavior of your past that has brought you to this moment, Humanism; providing a safe, compassionate, empathic, respectful pathway to guide you in uncovering and discovering your true essential self, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy; practical, realistic, tangible tools to apply to conflictual thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I have a deep appreciation, respect, and compassion for what it takes to summon the courage to seek counseling. In my career as a therapist, I have had the privilege to be of service to individuals seeking positive change in their lives. It is of vital importance to see my clients as they are; individual, distinct, and worthy, they deserve no less and usually much more. Together, we begin by assessing the issues that compelled you to seek counseling at this time in your life. Through a whole life approach, we will examine the bio-psycho-social-spiritual aspects of your life. We will collaborate to gain insight, create measurable goals, find and develop the value and meaning of these discoveries and implement deliberate actions redirecting your focus to transform your life to be one of authenticity, actionable internal motivation, and transformational change. I look forward to helping you develop and achieve meaningful change in your life. Let's work together.

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Dr. Arthur Magana

Offering therapy in California
License: Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
26 years of experience

My name is Dr. Art Magana, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in Sacramento California. I have been working in the field of mental-health for over thirty years and have been licensed since 2002. I believe I have a strong foundation in the field of psychology, benefiting from training at the University of California, Antioch University, and at the School of Professional Psychology in San Francisco. I have balanced this background with early doctoral work at The Institute for Integral studies in San Francisco as well as years of training and workshops which allow me to consider myself as a multi-modal therapist, drawing upon various schools of thought which inform my worldview and understanding of human nature. I have worked in the field of child protection, Early Child Development and Infant Toddler Mental Health, Foster Care and Adoption, inpatient psychiatric, as well as years as a social worker and a supervisor for social service programs. I have been on staff at numerous counseling centers over the years and worked with a broad range of clients and their presenting problems and needs. I have practiced at the Institute for Bi Polar Spectrum Disorders in Folsom California .This background has given me a unique experience and perspective to look at the whole person beyond the confines of the patient therapist interaction. My approach as a psychologist includes genuine respect for all my clients and a desire to help them. I try to hear beyond their words to take in the person's emotional reality , their strength, and their sense of trust and safety as they move forward. I feel that humor has an important place in the healing and growing process. The research backs me up. I am a father, a husband, a teacher and a Latino therapist. I'm comfortable working in conversational Spanish however my writing skills...well not so much. Thank you for taking a moment to tell you about myself. Now it's your turn! I hope we have the opportunity to work together.

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Shellie Revilla

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
27 years of experience

I am licensed therapist in California with over 20 years of experience. I've helped clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and other mental health concerns. I am compassionate and dedicated to creating the therapeutic relationship necessary for a successful out come. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have the strength to overcome your challenges. 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 you on your journey.

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Dr. Scott Huckaby

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
19 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with 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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Armando Rodriguez

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

Hi! I am Armando Rodriguez. I am a Latino Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I am bilingual and speak both English and Spanish fluently. I have experience helping clients cope with addictions, family conflicts, trauma, and abuse, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I take a psychodynamic and client-centered approach because I believe that clients are the experts of their experience and that early childhood experiences manifest today as maladaptive behaviors. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. The first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life is courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Haruyo Nishimura

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am an LCSW with eight years of clinical work experience and over twenty years of experience in social services. My expertise is assisting adults with chronic health issues in coping with anxiety, depression, stress, and interpersonal problems. I also have extensive experience serving clients with physical disabilities, especially those with developmental disabilities and visual impairments. I use different modalities to help you achieve your unique goals, including mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing. I am passionate about helping people who are immigrants and/or have English as a second language. As an immigrant myself, I have a true understanding of what they may be experiencing, such as cultural assimilation, frustration with the language barrier, and overt/covert discrimination. On BetterHelp, I provide a brief intervention using Thought Field Therapy, which uses tapping to alleviate psychological symptoms, as the main treatment method.

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Michelle North

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

I am licensed in California with 14years of professional work experience in the field. I help clients with anxiety, depression, infertility, relationship issues and I specialize in grief, loss and life transitions. I meet you where you are at in life and assist you on a path to where you would like to go. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Linda MacInnes

Offering therapy in California
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT#145910) located in Southern California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma, abuse, coping with grief and loss, families dealing with dementia/alzheimers, addiction and the challenges of sobriety. Additionally, I have worked with individuals going through major life changes (ie., divorce, marriage, having children, losing a job, losing a parent or child). My goal is to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be discussed without fear or judgment. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and I am happy to support you in that process.

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Kathleen Laub

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionADHD
29 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 29 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & 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.

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Tara McBrearty

Offering therapy in California
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Licensed by the State of California with 30 years of experience, I provide an opportunity for people to explore their emotional landscape as they navigate difficult life transitions. By supporting their sense of self and encouraging their capacity to manage change, I have helped clients sort through conflicts in their relationships, understand barriers to intimacy, re-discover their enthusiasm for life, build trust in themselves and others, and push through barriers to career growth and accomplishment. A cooperative and tolerant approach is key to happiness. I work to offer this tone in my professional relationship with you. This in turn creates an environment of freedom and creativity in our sessions. I understand, the courage required to take the pivotal steps to pursue your sense of purpose and fulfillment. I am pleased to be selected by you to support & empower this journey. Post Script: I am deeply influenced by the writings of Carl Jung, Abraham Maslow, Piaget, Carl Rogers, and Adi Da Samraj, to mention a few. Also, the trainings of Virginia Satire, Michael White , Gabor Mate, Ellyn Bader, John and Julie Gottman, William R. Miller and David Whyte have enlarged my sense of what it is to be human and how to relate productively to our thoughts and feelings.

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Anahita Shahbazi

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

Welcome! I am Anahita a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I specialize in helping individuals break free from unhealthy patterns such as codependency and abusive relationships. I assist clients in healing from trauma, addressing anger, managing anxiety and depression, navigating grief/ loss, and transitioning through life’s stages. I believe that healing often occurs when we are in a safe environment where we can open up, explore what we’re dealing with, and acknowledge and embrace our pain, much like how a rose emerges from the thorn. My mission is to provide you with a safe and nurturing space. I look forward to building a therapeutic bond and fostering a healing connection with you.

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Kimberly Suzanne Caspar

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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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Eugene Morrison

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. 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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Jendayi Ford

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

Listen; life happens and in this life there will be ups and downs. My job as an LCSW with over 10 years of practical experience is to help share strategies and tools to help you cope with life and find more ways to identify and celebrate you; your journey, your spirit, your resilience

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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