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.

Read more
This is Toi Lynn Wyle's avatar and link to their profile

Toi Lynn Wyle

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 33428
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Welcome. I’m so glad you reached out today. We are in the middle of unprecedented challenges, and you do not have to face them alone. I’m a Psychotherapist, Personal & Professional Coach, Hypnotherapist, and Yoga & Meditation teacher with 25+ years of experience supporting others along their life path. ~~I believe in my clients~~ I believe in your inherent wisdom and resources. I’ve had the honor of witnessing my clients move inner and outer mountains to make positive life changes as they become who they are meant to become. I believe this work as not about fixing someone or simply solving a problem, but about fostering self-awareness and providing the tangible tools you can use for a lifetime. I see myself as a facilitator and collaborator to empower my clients to find their own answers and use those answers to take clear and confident action in their life. I sincerely care about my clients. You are the reason I do this work. ~~What You’ll Get from Our Collaboration~~ You'll l have a solid and safe space where you’ll be seen, heard, respected and reflected. You'll be gaining an ally who fully supports your lived experience, who respects your unique way of being in the world. You'll become more aware of yourself and life around you, more tuned in to your values, needs, motivations, fears and desires. You'll become more present with yourself, others and life itself. You'll learn how to be your own therapist, coach, and friend. You'll come away from each session feeling more clear, confident, and capable of navigating your current and future life challenges. :::It's important to find a therapist that matches you, so below is a little bit more info about me::: ~~How I Am~~ My natural way of being in this work and in life is grounded, curious, compassionate, and intuitive. Over the years, my clients and students have described me as calming, warm, nurturing, efficient, and empowering. While our work is undoubtedly serious at times, humor is essential as well. ~~How I Work~~ I’m a Holistic or Integrative therapist, which means I work with the head, heart, body, and spirit to facilitate healing and transformation. I interweave traditional talk therapy and life coaching with various forms of cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, and somatic therapies. ~~Where I’ve Worked~~ I’ve worked in hospitals, schools, colleges, career centers, tech companies, virtual therapy providers, and non-profits. I've worked with clients of all ages from the US and countries around the world. I founded and directed a large healing arts center where I managed 25 employees offering yoga classes and other healing services. I’ve been a Yoga & Meditation teacher for 24 years, and have led numerous community events and retreats in-person and online. ~~Other Things~~ I’m a writer, as well as an avid nature photographer. Dogs, I do love dogs - raising them as well as training and nurturing them into wholeness. They are an important part of my passion and purpose. I look forward to the possibility of working with you.

This is Dr. Joni Carrasco's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Joni Carrasco

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 47661, UT LMFT 12108458-3902
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementCompassion fatigue
17 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Utah with 17 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. To be transparent, I have a neurological disorder that sometimes impacts my speech patterns, however it does not impact me cognitively. Because of my speech impediment I completely understand if you ask me to repeat myself or just need to work with another therapist. I use worksheets and help to find support group suggestions on the Better Help platform for almost everyone. I love those resources, they really work!

This is Cynthia Rumford-Jones's avatar and link to their profile

Cynthia Rumford-Jones

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 102582
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

CONGRATULATIONS!!!! You are in the right place at the right time, and I commend you for your courage and follow-through. My name is Cynthia Rumford-Jones and I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist (LCSW), welcome to my BetterHelp Therapist profile! Life is pretty complex and sometimes presents us with challenges that require support and therapeutic interventions to achieve the balance and overall wellness we may desire . Today is a good day as you have taken one of the most important steps towards elevating your wellness and living a life you love; you are “taking action”. My educational background includes a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from the University of California, Berkeley. I have over 20 years of experience working as a therapist/counselor, and an additional 10 years working in the field of social work and human services, public and private sectors. My specialties include treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and challenges related to life transitions, anger management, relationship issues, family conflict, parenting, and foster care. I am also experienced in grief/loss, eating disorders, and challenges related to divorce and separation, multi-cultural concerns, prejudice and discrimination, and chronic mental illness. CLINICAL APPROACHES My therapy style is warm, supportive, interactive, and empowering. I utilize a client-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy approach with a solution focused perspective, and have training and extensive experience in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), and Multi-Dimensional Treatment Foster Care (MTFC). As a conscientious therapist it is important to me to provide a safe, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment and offer a style and approach that best fits the needs of each individual. I know finding a therapist who is a “good fit” is key to the overall effectiveness and successful outcome of therapy and the task of doing so can be quite arduous. May your mission to find that “good fit” be accomplished swiftly. If you are ready to take the next step, I’m here and looking forward to partnering with you to create a treatment plan with specific and structured goals that meet your specific needs, as well supporting and empowering you as you strive to elevate your wellness. YEARS OF CLINICAL, SOCIAL WORK, and HUMAN SERVICES EXPERIENCE 30 years

This is Jehalin Anandam's avatar and link to their profile

Jehalin Anandam

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 18704, OK LPC LPC04569
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefAnger managementDepression
15 years of experience

Hi my name is Jehalin, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist with 13 years of experience working with adults, children, adolescents, and families from various walks of life. I have experience with helping people who are experiencing various hardships in life and difficulty adjusting, as well as people experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, mood disorders, etc. I am known for being a good listener, caring, accepting, and compassionate, regardless of the challenges one might be experiencing. The therapeutic approaches I use is cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused, client centered, play therapy, reality therapy, mindfulness, and more. My desire is to help you achieve your goals by providing a safe, authentic, and compassionate clinical setting with an individualized therapy experience. Please let me know how I may assist.

This is Laura  Case's avatar and link to their profile

Laura Case

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 50491
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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.

This is Eric Aldaco's avatar and link to their profile

Eric Aldaco

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 116682
Self esteemCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I believe that you are the expert of your life journey 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 life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am a Christian therapist and my approach to therapy is from a biblical perspective. I look forward in meeting you and collaboratively engaging in a strength base therapeutic model in treatment.

This is Jaclyn Decarlo's avatar and link to their profile

Jaclyn Decarlo

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 110649
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionADHD
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, life changes, stress and anxiety. Additionally, I have helped people cope with addictions, and increase motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I have previously worked in substance use treatment, housing first agencies, and with the forensic mental health population. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and have enjoyed working with teenagers in the past. 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 as I believe in meeting each individual where thy are are at. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process and am glad you are here.

This is Jeanette Wendt-Orme's avatar and link to their profile

Jeanette Wendt-Orme

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 45332
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
23 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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.

This is Tiffany Whittington's avatar and link to their profile

Tiffany Whittington

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 150425
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf 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, coping with addictions, 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.

This is Alexis Clemons-Velasquez's avatar and link to their profile

Alexis Clemons-Velasquez

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 112365
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
10 years of experience

My name is Alexis "Lex" Clemons-Velasquez and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California. I have a master's degree in counseling with a specialization in marriage, family & child counseling. I have 10 years of professional work experience working with individuals, couples, families, & groups from diverse backgrounds. It has been my privilege to provide counseling and/or psychotherapeutic services to clients in the community mental health, public & non-public school, and military settings. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, depression, trauma, abuse, and more! 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.

This is Terence Shigg's avatar and link to their profile

Terence Shigg

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 47542
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoaching
16 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. 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.

This is Kristyn Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Kristyn Smith

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 132747
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health professional in the state of California with over five years of clinical experience. My work is grounded in evidence-based practice and a deep commitment to providing compassionate, individualized care. I have extensive experience supporting clients facing a wide range of challenges, including stress, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, anger management, relationship issues, family conflict, low motivation, self-esteem concerns, and confidence-related difficulties. In addition to working with common mental health concerns, I have significant experience in treating complex and treatment-resistant mental illness. I strongly support the principles of precision psychiatry, and I utilize an interdisciplinary and integrative approach to ensure that treatment is as personalized, effective, and comprehensive as possible. This includes collaboration with professionals across psychiatry, psychology, and allied health disciplines to address the full biopsychosocial spectrum of mental health. My prognostic belief system is one of hope and empowerment. I believe that even in the face of severe or long-standing mental health challenges, meaningful healing and transformation are possible. My work is guided by the conviction that individuals can reconnect with their strengths, find purpose, and move toward lasting change when provided with the right tools and support. I believe that every person deserves to be treated with respect, sensitivity, and dignity. My therapeutic process is grounded in mutual trust, and I tailor each treatment plan to meet the unique and specific needs of the individual. In pursuit of clinical excellence, I remain actively engaged in ongoing research focused on complex and severe mental illness, with the goal of advancing our understanding and improving outcomes for individuals with the greatest needs. Taking the first step to begin therapy takes courage. I commend you for making that choice, and I am here to support you every step of the way.

This is Mary Entezar's avatar and link to their profile

Mary Entezar

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 156823
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed marriage family therapist in California with 7 years of professional work experience and bilingual in Farsi/persian. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Jana Borg's avatar and link to their profile

Jana Borg

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 92784
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issues
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I am a trainee with APSATS for helping partners of betrayal. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, & abuse. I also have experience working with intimacy related issues. 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.

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.
Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist