Find a licensed online therapist in Chico, CA
Therapy can be a way to find new beginnings, whether you’ve experienced trauma or are interested in career counseling to find your dream job. A therapist can offer a wide range of tools to improve communication, change behavior, manage stress, and achieve personal goals.
When it comes to finding a therapist, Chico, CA may offer more opportunities than surrounding rural areas, but finding the right therapist can be more complicated than simply reaching out to the nearest clinic. One reason for this is that within the field of psychotherapy, there are many evidence-based therapeutic approaches that target different treatment goals. For example, a therapist that specializes in issues related to eating disorders may not be the right match for someone experiencing delusional behaviors. Just like traditional medicine, psychology has specialization. What you need may not be available nearby.
This is where online therapy can help. BetterHelp is a platform that offers access to North Valley counseling professionals who specialize in a variety of modalities and have experience working with diverse populations. Simply fill out an online questionnaire and BetterHelp will match you with a therapist that meets your individual needs. And because therapeutic success can depend on your ability to feel comfortable sharing during sessions, if you need to switch therapists at any time you can do so at no additional cost.
If you live in the Chico, CA area and are interested in learning more about how online therapy can help, whether you’re dealing with conflict, are interested in recovery from addiction, or want to focus on self-discovery, check out the profiles below. These California-licensed professionals can get you started on your mental health and wellness journey.
Michele Downey
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 23607
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCompassion fatigue
35 years offering treatment
I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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.
Howard Acosta
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 74837
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTParenting issuesAnger management
24 years offering treatment
As a licensed therapist in California with over two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on addressing stress, anxiety, addiction, and mental health concerns with a compassionate, culturally responsive approach. I have extensive expertise working with diverse populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, older adults, and those navigating challenging life transitions. My therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique experiences, with a particular focus on issues like social anxiety, trauma recovery, mood disorders, and personal growth. I am committed to creating a supportive, affirming environment where clients can explore their challenges, develop resilience, and work towards meaningful personal transformation. My approach integrates evidence-based practices tailored to meet each individual's specific needs and goals. Whether you're struggling with panic attacks, relationship dynamics, addiction, or seeking support through significant life changes, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional guidance.
Nathalie Contro
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 131775
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
3 years offering treatment
I have been working with couples, individuals and families for over twenty years. As a therapist, I collaborate with clients in finding healthier ways of coping with stress, communicating their needs, and resolving conflicts and in developing intimacy within their relationships. Each client is met where they are at, and with unconditional regard, the time we spend together will involve you developing tools and insights to living you life, and relationships authentically and to their full potential. I specialize in couples, intimacy issues, substance use disorders, PTSD, anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Personality Disorders. The therapeutic relationship is a vessel in which with unconditional positive regard, our collaboration will serve to support your discovering the road to living your life to your full potential. My approach is to support you in uncovering and utilizing your insight, intuition, and self-efficacy , to empower you on your journey towards a life that purposeful, balanced, and centered. You will be met with empathy and presence, so that can freely, explore behavior, challenges, and identify road to healing and self actualization. No one person fits a mold, we are all very unique individuals with a special set of qualities and skills set, therefore it is essential to meet the client where they are at. My approach integrates various techniques that include psychotherapeutic strategies (CBT, DBT, Self Psychology, Object Relations, and Systems Therapy). Movement, active imagination, dreams work, breathwork are also tools utilized to increased insight, promote balance and integration.
Blanca Nicassio
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 145667
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
8 years offering treatment
I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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. 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.
Eric Aldaco
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 116682
Mental Wellness Specialties: Self esteemCoping with life changes
16 years offering treatment
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.
Sheila Owens
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 115925
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
8 years offering treatment
I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have been fortunate in being able to provide 30 additional years in the mental health field as a case manager/case coordinator. I am a community activist who aids in decreasing the sigma of mental health issues. I have an extensive background in helping clients with stress, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, motivation, and self-esteem, and confidence issues. I have experience working with an array of adult mental health diagnoses and treating individuals who are experiencing 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Claudia Diaz
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 99791
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
15 years offering treatment
I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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.
Cecil Edwards
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 71160, MA LICSW 121314
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementCareer difficulties
10 years offering treatment
I am licensed in three states, to include California, as a clinical social worker, having started in this career field in 2011. In addition, I retired as a military Chaplain after 36 years serving both as a weekend warrior and on full-time deployments. My areas of expertise include Christian counseling, and helping clients work through stress and anxiety, anger management, career difficulties and relationship issues within and outside the Family. Allowing me to accompany you on your courageous journey toward a more fulfilling and happier life will be an honor and a privilege. Let's get started.
Dr. Malcolm Stanislaus
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 46059
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuseDepressionCoaching
40 years offering treatment
I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with shame-based issues, trauma and abuse, depression, spiritual bypass, & executive and 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Taylor Holmes
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 152559
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionADHD
5 years offering treatment
I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, concentration, & memory. I also have experience working with focus. 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.
Nicole Valadao
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 123668
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTCareer difficultiesDepression
10 years offering treatment
I'm a licensed therapist in California with a passion for supporting women through life's most challenging transitions. My work centers on helping women navigate depression, anxiety, stress, and the complexities of identity and belonging. My clinical practice is strictly focused on women's mental health, female-identifying individuals, and non-binary clients. I do not specialize in or accept male clients at this time. I have particular expertise working with LGBTQ+ women, and I'm committed to creating an affirming, non-judgmental space where you can explore who you are and who you want to become. Throughout my career, I've supported clients facing a wide range of concerns—from career transitions and workplace challenges to relationship difficulties, isolation, and questions about life purpose. I also work with women navigating family dynamics, adoption, foster care, and fertility journeys. I'm experienced in supporting caregivers managing compassion fatigue and burnout, and I bring specialized knowledge to women's issues. My approach is grounded in genuine care and deep listening. I believe in meeting you where you are, honoring your values and lived experience, and working collaboratively toward meaningful change. Whether you're exploring self-love, improving communication, or processing trauma, I'm here to support your healing with warmth, authenticity, and respect. Taking the first step toward therapy takes courage, and I'm honored to walk alongside you.
Federico Godina
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 120906
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
7 years offering treatment
I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Christiane Soehnlein
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 51417
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
20 years offering treatment
I am a California-licensed therapist with20 years of professional experience. I support clients who are navigating depression, anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, fertility concerns, trauma, abuse, and intimacy-related issues. I believe in treating every person with respect, sensitivity, and compassion Together. we will tailor our conversations and treatment plan to reflect your unique personality, history, and needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and meaningful life, and to take steps necessary for change Im here to support, guide, and empower you on that journey.
Alexander Schwarz
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 146580
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment
I'm a licensed therapist in California with a decade of experience supporting individuals through life's most challenging moments. I work with clients navigating depression, anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, and trauma, helping them build resilience and find meaningful paths forward. My approach is grounded in compassion and respect for each person's unique values and beliefs. I welcome clients from diverse faith backgrounds—whether Christian, non-religious, or anywhere in between—and I'm committed to honoring your worldview as we work together. I specialize in helping clients explore self-love, improve communication, address isolation and loneliness, and discover life purpose. I also support those working through social anxiety, guilt and shame, forgiveness, control issues, panic attacks, trauma recovery, divorce, attachment challenges, caregiver stress, and mood-related concerns. My therapeutic style is collaborative and person-centered. I believe you are the expert of your own experience, and my role is to walk alongside you with genuine care, curiosity, and steadiness. I'm honored to support you as you move toward healing and growth.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Chico, California
Finding a therapist near you in Chico, California starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In California, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across California, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In California, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in California
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in California
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across California, including residents in Chico.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in California do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Chico, California
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Chico and the surrounding CA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.
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