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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Dr. Glenda Baez

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 49849
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesDepression
19 years of experience

My name is Glenda Baez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in San Diego, California. I have a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology and have a doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am bilingual as Spanish is my second language and frequently conduct therapy in this language. I currently own a online teletherapy private practice and work with primarily individuals and couples. I have 19 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked as an outpatient therapist in clinics, non-profit settings, doing therapy in a preschool setting, I have also done extensive utilization management and quality management work. I have extensive experience working with very young children, school age children and adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I believe in being empathetic, warm, supportive, as well as empowering my clients in finding solutions. I approach issues from a solution-focused approach and also use cognitive-behavioral techniques to help address issues and improve self-esteem, self-awareness, improve mood, and work towards moving forward with life.

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Kendra Kelly

Offering therapy in California
License: GA LPC LPC008797, CA LPCC 15324
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Greetings, I’m Kendra — a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia and California. I hold active licenses in Georgia, national board certification in counseling, and certification in Reiki Level I. My background blends mental health, creative arts, and holistic wellness. With experience in dance, film, stage, and fashion, I bring an understanding of the unique challenges creative professionals face in maintaining mental and emotional balance. I help clients navigate anxiety, stress, depression, identity exploration, life transitions, and relationship dynamics. In the past, I’ve worked extensively with children, youth, and young adults in the foster care system, supporting their resilience and emotional growth. My approach is integrative and client-centered, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing to focus in Parts Work, Somatic Experiencing, and Trauma informed therapy approaches. I believe every experience—joyful or difficult—offers a chance to grow, heal, and realign with the life you want to create. I primarily work with women and feminine-identifying individuals but welcome clients of all gender identities, orientations, and relationship styles. My focus is on building self-esteem, increasing coping skills, fostering creativity, and helping clients gain clarity and confidence. Together, we’ll work toward balance, fulfillment, and self-understanding. Counseling is a space for you to explore, heal, and evolve—one step at a time. Availability: You may message me anytime; I typically respond within 24–48 hours (except Sundays for rest and self-care). Live phone or chat sessions are also available—35–45 minutes each, once weekly. If you don’t see a time that fits, message me for scheduling flexibility.

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Nadeshda Hernandez

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 89895
Stress, AnxietyLGBTIntimacy-related issuesEating disordersDepression
3 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist in California for over 10 years who supports clients in reconnecting with their authentic selves and creating lives that feel inspired, peaceful, and fulfilling. My work integrates evidence-based therapy with a deeply intuitive, heart-centered approach to help you release what no longer serves you and open to your natural flow of well-being. Together, we’ll explore both your current challenges and your deeper desires—those parts of you that are ready to grow, heal, and shine. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, self-doubt, relationship shifts, or creative blocks, I offer a space where your thoughts, emotions, and dreams are met with compassion and curiosity. Therapy with me is a process of remembering your inner wisdom and reclaiming your power. I’m here to help you move through the past with grace, rediscover your joy, and align with the version of yourself that feels most alive and true.

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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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Brennan Fitzgerald

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 3920
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesCoachingADHD
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, career difficulties, & executive and professional coaching. 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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Michelle Filippi-Robb

Offering therapy in California
License: MO LPC 2006009171, CA LPCC 16530
GriefDepressionCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

Hi! I'm Michelle – a 40-something cisgender heterosexual woman with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I co-own a small private practice with my husband (also a therapist), and while we don’t have human kids, we do have multiple dogs who I am over the top with as a proud "dog mom." While this isn't something typically discussed in therapy, I’m liberal-leaning in my values and have a personal faith, though I wouldn’t describe myself as traditionally religious. My Focus Areas: Grief of all kinds (people, pets, jobs, life stages, etc. ).You do not have to have lost something to death to grieve it. Depression Life transitions (divorce, career shifts, big changes) Feel free to reach out with any questions. I’m here if you think we’d be a good match. A Few Things to Know: Therapy Fit Matters: If I’m not the right fit for you, that’s okay! Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. You’re welcome to unassign and continue your search—your comfort is most important. My Approach: I practice Person-Centered Therapy, which means: You set the pace—I'm here to listen, not to judge or direct. I believe you are the expert on your life, and I work alongside you with empathy and support. I honor and support those on a spiritual path—whether you’re just beginning to trust your intuition or already walking closely with it. If your healing journey includes spiritual guidance, you’ll find a safe, grounded space here. I focus on building trust, validation, and a space where you feel safe to be yourself. About Me: I was born with Spina Bifida and use a wheelchair full-time. This perspective deepens my empathy and reminds me that no two experiences are the same—even when the issues look similar on the surface. My Style: I’m laid back and authentic while remaining professional. I don’t typically assign homework or suggest reading, though I might occasionally if it feels helpful. Who I’m Not a Fit For: I’m not trained to work with active addiction or severe trauma/PTSD-related symptoms. I am not a good fit for someone who is looking for therapist who provides a lot of structure and homework assignments. My Focus Areas: Grief of all kinds (people, pets, jobs, life stages, etc. ).You do not have to have lost something to death to grieve it. Depression Life transitions (divorce, career shifts, big changes) Feel free to reach out with any questions. I’m here if you think we’d be a good match. .

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Giovanni Bass

Offering therapy in California
License: AZ LCSW LCSW-21903, NC LCSW C008797
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social-Worker with experience treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, and borderline personality. I also provide marital counseling and family consultation. I provide treatment plans that address problems associated with impulse control, anger management, communication, self-awareness, self-esteem, perspective, and negative thought patterns. I have over 5 years of experience and I have treated individuals in various parts of the world, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia. I provide spiritually integrated psychotherapy where the focus is on gaining knowledge of self and developing a relationship with a higher power. I have military experience and I am honored to have had the opportunity to treat many veterans and active duty soldiers suffering from various forms of trauma and adjustment disorders. My approach and treatment modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, rational emotive therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. Each treatment plan is tailored to meet the needs of each soul I interact with. I will support you and help you discover the strength, from within yourself, to fulfill your purpose and to live the life you want to live. Take that first step, and I will take the rest with you!

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Christina Handal

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 97537
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I am excited about the opportunity to continue my work with individuals, couples, families and children. I approach my work with respect, cultural awareness and a strong belief in self-empowerment. Our time together will be supportive, collaborative, focused and goal driven. Although I am continually learning and searching for what works, Reality Therapy/Choice Theory is my primary theoretical approach. I believe my purpose is to help clients discover, clarify and maximize their potential for healing/growth. I am a strong believer in the healing power of good relationships, so my work is framed by the intent to help folks get along better with the important people in their lives.

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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.

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June Cichowicz

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 23696
Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am licensed in California with more than 20 years of professional counseling experience. My work began after completing graduate work at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety and depression, coping with relationship issues , and motivation and self esteem. My work includes assisting clients who are coping with life changes and transitions ( including serious illness, grief and loss). I completed a two year mental health fellowship at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles working with a broad and diverse client population from children to teens and adolescents, as well as adults with a variety of abilities and backgrounds. My personal life experience has served me well as a roadmap and path toward my goal of assisting others in managing life transitions and changes. It may surprise you to know that I find a sense of humor can be a helpful tool in many, but not all situations. You may ask why I do this work: My reward is the ability to be part of a goal oriented team with members/clients. It is a gift to have the opportunity to participate in the change process. 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, although you may not always be aware of that . Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and satisfying life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. June A. Cichowicz. M.S.S.W., L.C.S.W.

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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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Marc Sherman

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 141246
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe 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.

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Rhonda Van Cleve

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 63895
Trauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
10 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on compassionate, holistic care for those experiencing depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, and ADHD-related challenges. I create a supportive environment where clients can explore communication difficulties, social anxiety, feelings of isolation, and struggles with purpose and self-image. My therapeutic style emphasizes understanding personal narratives and empowering individuals to develop meaningful coping strategies. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients work through panic disorder, mood challenges, guilt, shame, and control issues. My goal is to walk alongside you, offering gentle guidance as you discover inner strengths and create positive pathways toward healing and personal growth. I welcome individuals seeking a thoughtful, affirming therapeutic experience that respects their unique journey and spiritual perspectives.

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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.

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 $65 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 insurance cover the cost of in-person or online therapy with a therapist in California?

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.

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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