Finding a therapist in California can be challenging. Even in some of the biggest California cities, concerns about cost or a lack of available providers can make finding an in-person therapist 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. From young adults needing help managing ADHD to seniors struggling to heal from past events, therapists can help adults of any age navigate the challenges in their lives and learn 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.

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This is Gina Clemente's avatar and link to their profile

Gina Clemente

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 113691
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Gina, and I am a licensed MFT (Marriage and Family Therapist) in the state of California. I graduated from California State University, Fullerton with my masters in counseling in 2017. I have over four years of providing psychotherapy services, and I specialize in working with adults with a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, and substance abuse. My therapy style has been described by others as gentle, patient, sensitive, and authentic. I want you to know that you are not alone and that I will provide you with a safe space where you can share your thoughts and feelings without judgment. I utilize an integrative approach to therapy which combines psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and humanistic ideas. I will work with you collaboratively to address your unique needs in therapy. I look forward to getting to know you and helping you begin your healing journey :)

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Grant Grover

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 25787, ID LCSW LCSW-36205
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

Hello, life is beautiful!! I know we may not always feel that way and if you need help to feel that way again, let me help you. I have over 25 years experience in helping people reach their goals in life. I am compassionate, positive, and love helping people see how amazing they are. We all have minds that help us, but often get in the way of our ability to see and create the joy in life that we seek. I love helping people understand their competencies, self-worth and strengths and how they can use these to achieve there goals in a lasting way. I take great joy in seeing clients who have partnered with me in the growth process, years after counseling, who have had lasting changes that have increased throughout the years. I want you to be one of those people. I have worked with people of all ages. I have been trained as an expert in addictions , depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress, relationship issues, religious issues, and grief and loss while working for the State of California. I have worked with mild, moderate and severe mental health challenges, including over five years working with in patient hospitalization. I have been highly effective in a private practice and I know how to treat client's who need short term or long term therapy that can take years with very good outcomes. I use a Client Centered approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and ACT-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness training as well as various other modalities as needed. I love the truths of Jesus Christ as taught in various churches around the world. I love working with people who want therapy that can include a respect for their religious beliefs in the therapeutic process. I also help people with religious issues as they relate to Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Various Addictions and Religious Preoccupation and Perseveration as well as Spiritual Abuse and its effects on families, individuals and couples. I work with people from all faiths. I am an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I look forward to supporting you in receiving the therapy you need in an environment that will aid you in using your religious beliefs as strengths to help you on your journey. I look forward to helping you meet your goals!

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Michelle Varady

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 129263, NV LCSW 11399-C
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Healing the Roots of the Self I am a licensed therapist with 15 years of professional work experience across California, Massachusetts, and Nevada. My primary focus is on Internal Family Systems (IFS) and deep Shadow Work. I believe true healing comes from more than just symptom management; it requires the courage to uncover and heal the roots of our challenges, such as trauma, anxiety, addiction, and low self-esteem. I teach powerful tools for managing day-to-day symptoms using integrated approaches like CBT, DBT, and Somatic Therapy, but my core mission is to facilitate lasting, foundational change. I believe you are the expert of your story, possessing many strengths that will assist you in overcoming what challenges you. It takes immense courage to seek a more fulfilling life, and I am here to support and empower you on that journey.

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Debra Pintel Steiner

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 20375
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
10 years of experience

I am a retired social worker formerly with Alameda County Child Protective Services. I provided family counseling to families in the child welfare system. I have also provided individual therapy for adults with mental health and chronic physical health issues. Currently I provide individual therapy for adults with depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I seek to develop a trusting relationship with my clients so that they can air their emotions and concerns, and begin to see life from a new perspective.

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Lorraine Sanchez

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 109578
Trauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California, along with being a Certified Life Coach. I have 17 years of professional work experience in the mental health field working with a wide variety of disorders, life, career, and relational challenges. I also have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life challenges. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe it is important to incorporate a life that is balanced with self care emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually. Through a supportive and collaborative experience, my clients will experience a process of self discovery, inner healing, insight and awareness, cognitive mindset shift, cultivate their inner gifts and purpose, and be inspired to grow and succeed. Additionally, I help clients learn how to become positive impactful leaders in their professional roles, teams, and in their community. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs/goals. Taking the first step to healing and seeking a more happier and healthier you takes courage. You are headed in the right direction and I am here to support you in that process. Nurture. Heal. Cultivate. Thrive!

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Adriene Faust

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 16527
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefAnger management
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Christine Wong

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 140531
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 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 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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Dr. Bobbie Paul

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 29201
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
32 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 32 years of professional work experience. I have training and experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, depression and 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am confident we can develop the necessary tools so you can prevail over your current challenges and achieve your goals. If you wish to know more about my approach to therapy visit my website at https://www.bobbiejpaul.com.

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Ronena Summers

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 108740
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, & abuse. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Alex Haydon

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 51943
AddictionsAnger managementSelf 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, anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma, abuse, & anger management. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Aspen Burnett

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 18696
Trauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma, abuse, parenting issues, anger management, & 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!

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Chanin Santini

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 131236, PA LCSW CW019281
Intimacy-related issues
15 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex personal challenges. My practice centers on helping clients explore intimacy, communication, and personal growth across diverse life experiences. I offer compassionate, affirming care for individuals working through self-love, social anxiety, trauma recovery, relationship transitions, and sexuality-related concerns. My therapeutic approach honors each person's unique journey, creating a supportive space where clients can explore their experiences with authenticity and respect. I'm particularly passionate about addressing workplace dynamics, gender-specific challenges, and helping individuals reconnect with their sense of purpose and emotional well-being. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I provide trauma-informed, client-centered support that empowers individuals to develop deeper self-understanding and meaningful personal transformation. My goal is to walk alongside you as you navigate life's most intricate emotional landscapes.

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Grace Lu

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 151683
Relationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I have worked extensively with a diverse patient population, such as adolescents in high-school settings, geriatrics, those with developmental differences, and those with dual diagnoses, among others. Although predominantly trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy, I also work from a humanistic model, maintaining a humble and tentative stance, since I believe empathy, compassion, and attunement are at the bedrock of the relational dynamic. I am committed to working with you to improve your overall mental and emotional health and well-being, through a collaborative effort.

This is Sheryl Snow's avatar and link to their profile

Sheryl Snow

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 52989
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
25 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California with over 25 years of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional experiences. My approach is deeply compassionate and culturally informed, with a particular focus on addressing challenges like depression, trauma, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I bring expertise in helping clients navigate diverse life experiences, including workplace stress, family conflicts, trauma recovery, and personal identity exploration. My therapeutic style centers on creating a supportive, affirming environment where individuals can develop self-understanding, build resilience, and cultivate meaningful change. My practice honors the unique journey of each person, drawing from evidence-based approaches to address a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, DBT, humanistic, psychodynamic, solution-focused and rational-emotive therapy. We will tailor your treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, seeking to improve communication, or working through life transitions, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional guidance.

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 $70 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 BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp has joined with major insurance carriers in select states to provide in-network therapy coverage. Coverage may vary by plan, provider, and therapist availability. Insured members pay an average co-pay of $19 per session. Average co-pay is based on current insured BetterHelp members. Explore insurance coverage in major cities like ArlingtonCorpus ChristiPlanoLubbockJacksonvilleMiamiTampaOrlandoSt. PetersburgPort St. LucieHialeahCape CoralTallahasse and Fort Lauderdale.

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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