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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Erik Metzger

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteem
14 years of experience

I have worked with adults, teens, couples and families for seven years; I specialize in facilitating people’s own insights and resilience to access more resourced and contented lives. Living in California can be exhausting with its high paced culture; allow me to work with you on achieving insight(s) about the origins and solutions to anxiety, substance abuse, and dissatisfaction with relationships and work. With my background as a yoga instructor, meditation practitioner, and competitive runner and triathlete, I can join you in bringing awareness to maladaptive coping strategies. I strive to normalize and validate your experiences! I started my career in addiction counseling, via Hazelden Betty Ford's graduate program, and I then received a counseling psychology masters from Palo Alto University; I have been working for a large hospital as a psychotherapist for the past six years. My specialty is working with addiction of all kinds. With two decades of sobriety from alcohol and drugs, I can assist you and your loved ones in getting relief from anger, restlessness, and grief. I can support you in recovering from bereavement after losing a beloved person or animal. Recovery has varied approaches; let’s find yours and develop new skills. I commend you for channeling your strength and wisdom into positive action. Asking for assistance and implementing new life skills is not easy; "we cannot fix a problem with the same mind that created it," Einstein is known to have said. Most everyone deals with shame, guilt, and self-criticism, and now’s your time to achieve a respite from the human condition. Congratulations on taking your first step in realizing your potential! I look forward to working with you.

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Dr. Richard LeGassick, Ph.D.

Offering therapy in California
License: PhD
Relationship issuesGriefParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

Hello. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a broad range of experience of over 35 years. I have found that when people reach a personal life impasse, they often benefit from developing increased self-understanding and an outside impartial opinion. My primary interest is in providing Humanistic and Problem Solving counseling; helping resolve the difficulties of Life Transitions: Family Separations (Divorce, Child Custody/ Reunification); Career changes; Marital and pre-marital; and Blended families. My clients learn to understand and resolve Depression and Anxiety and Grieve the Loss of loved ones. I am a consultant in areas of Couple Communication, and Parenting; with First Responders; USA Military Service Members and their families. My approach is Humanistic/Cognitive/ Interpersonal; Learning to cope with Traumatic Life Changes. Throughout my career, I have worked in community Mental Health centers, and on crisis teams. I provide the most useful guidance through guiding the development of Self-Awareness, Self-Acceptance, and Independence; Finding One's Strengths and Coping Skills, while improving Communication. I value the impact of Positive Psychology as well as Mindfulness Meditation; Expressing Gratefulness. [Note: I currently schedule 9:00-6:00 PST weekday appointments]

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John Johnson

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT,MA,LMT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoaching
25 years of experience

Hello. I appreciate you taking the time to get to know more about me. I have been on planet earth for a long time. I so appreciate having the opportunity to see the consciousness of mankind expand in many ways. And in many ways, it has stayed the same. I would like to think that my life experience has allowed me to experience a range of emotions, trials and tribulations that contributes to my ability to listen and empathize with your situation. The primary trait I bring to the table is that of the wounded healer. I grew up in an abusive atmosphere, and spent most of my life trying to "figure it out". I have experienced many different types of therapy, many of them cathartic and body oriented. I have always found a sense of home in my body. We now know that the heart and the gut both have more neurotransmitters than the brain. I also try to convey the power of Mother Earth to support you on your journey. You are never really alone. The mind is not always the best place to look for solutions, especially for body issues and trauma. Research has proven this to be the case. I have lived in many places, travelled the world, and look forward to spending my elder years sharing what i have learned. I love the West Coast. I grew up in New York City. while there I was a teacher, a dog trainer, a professional dancer, and I performed off off Broadway doing Primal Theatre. I performed for many years doing Playback Theater, a wonderful form where we played back audience member's stories for them. I have been an entrepreneur and business owner for decades, providing tools and information to help people live a happy, healthy, long life. I have coached and worked with many business owners and family businesses. I am confident that I can provide you with a compassionate ear, be a witness to your areas of concern, and help move you towards your goals and aspirations.

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Cynthia Young

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Florida with 25 years of professional work experience. I work with my clients 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 to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Sandra West

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

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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. 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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Kathleen Lynch

Offering therapy in California
Trauma and abuseGriefAnger managementCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 29 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Brianna Reyes

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping 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, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I provide short-term, solution-focused therapy, culturally sensitive approach incorporating elements from different approaches to meet the needs of my client. 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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Jessica Ordaz

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionADHD
9 years of experience

My name Jessica Ordaz, LCSW. I am Mexican American bilingual (Spanish/English) psychotherapist who has 8 years of experience working with various populations (children, adolescents, adults, families). I meet my clients where they are at and work hand in hand with them to determine the optimal tools, they need to reach their treatment goals. I create an emotionally safe space where you can authentically show up with no judgment, shame, or guilt. Equipping clients with tools and psychoeducation with the goal of empowering clients to minimize mental health symptoms interfering with their lives. I am passionate about working with children, teens, individuals, families, including fellow colleagues who need a place to be seen and heard. Using a highly customizable approach and integrating evidence-based tools, I offer a uniquely authentic, empowering, and practical vehicle toward growth. I have an eclectic approach in Person-Centered and Play Therapy. You can expect authenticity, professionalism, a bit of humor, and a high standard of legal and ethical guidelines. The nature of therapy can seem intimidating and nerve-racking. I work collaboratively to establish a safe place, trust, clear goals, and practical avenues that we can work together to achieve them.

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Melissa Ebneter

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Georgia with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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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Jenna LaVallee

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Welcome! Originally from Minnesota, I currently live in Idaho with my daughter and Air Force husband. We love to travel and see different states. We are in the process of moving for my husbands job so I've switched gears to continue doing what I love while having some flexibility in providing telehealth therapy. I love to read and learn and spend time outside. I so love being a therapist and walking with people through their own journey. I am fairly laid back and work hard to meet people where they are at. What works for you, works for me. I am licensed in Idaho, California, Minnesota and Utah with about 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I most recently worked full time as a mental health and substance abuse counselor for juveniles but also have experience working with adults and people with disabilities as well. I am a certified clinical trauma professional and certified in dialectical behavioral therapy. 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. I'm so glad you are here and look forward to working with you!

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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