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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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.

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Melissa Macgown

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 80862
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
20 years of experience

Hello! My name is Melissa and I love what I do! Counseling people is my life's work and I've been doing it 14 years. Whatever it is you are going through, I can assure you, I have worked with someone who has dealt with something similar. I specialize in treating addiction issues, as I've worked in 5 different in-patient drug and alcohol treatment centers/rehabs in my career. Though I have years of professional experience working with an array of all kinds of issues and different populations. I greatly enjoy working with individuals and families. I also have several years experience working with teens, including those who have grown up in the system, been abused, and at high-risk, or with behavioral or learning problems. Clients feedback is often reported to me as: I am "easy to talk to," "friendly," and "down to earth." I've also been told I am helpful and a "good listener;" that is important to me. I am mostly solution-focused, meaning...I want to understand the problem, but then want to get into the tough work of finding solutions as soon as possible. As a therapist, I have a lot of empathy, am caring, and invested in improving your life circumstances. I am non-judgmental and believe that no matter how similar or different we may be, we can work together and develop a rapport. We can start right away, opening lines of communication so I can understand where you are coming from and help in anyway I can. My hope is to develop a warm, and trusting relationship in which you feel comfortable, and heard. One of my favorite things to hear as a therapist from a client is, "exactly," because I know we are on the same page, and I smile when a client says after session, " I feel much better." That is my aspiration, to help, and get to know you. Please understand that this is not just a job for me. I am genuinely here for you! Thank you for taking the time to read my profile and learn more about me as a professional.

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Valerie Novak

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 107302
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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

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Rebecca Marrs

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 125873
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I have over ten years of experience in the mental health field as a therapist working with individuals ranging from infancy, childhood, adolescents, adulthood, middle adulthood and old age. Also, have worked in various settings such as in the home, school, out in the community, agency setting and in my office. Their backgrounds have ranged from foster care, adoption, history of trauma, domestic violence, difficulty with peers/co-workers, auto-immune disease, LGBTQIA+, separation, divorce, reunification and court ordered therapy. Some diagnosed with MDD, GAD, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, Adjustment Disorder, School Phobia and ODD. I will complete an intake, which will include a mental status exam. This process will come naturally during the session as I will inquire about the reason why you have decided to start therapy and collaborate to determine what your therapeutic, personal and professional goals are. My office is a safe place where you can share your thoughts and feelings, feel heard, understood, validated and supported. You have a say each step of the way.

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Christine Piddington

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 69521
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
11 years of experience

Hello! I'm a California-licensed therapist with 11 years of professional experience dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges. My passion and deep expertise lie in coping with grief and loss, profoundly shaped by my background as a hospice social worker. I understand the unique complexities that come with navigating profound loss. For the past 7.5 years, I've worked exclusively via remote sessions, providing comprehensive support to clients across California. I'm here to help you with a wide range of concerns, including: Stress & Anxiety Family Conflicts Trauma & Abuse Grief & Loss (specialty area) Depression Beyond these, I bring a strong background in client advocacy, stemming from my two years in the Peace Corps in Belize advocating for those with HIV/AIDS, and my broader work championing the rights of underprivileged communities. This includes experience with disability leave in the workplace and securing Emotional Support Animals (ESA) in housing. My diverse journey also includes experience in prison and hospital settings, enriching my understanding of varied client needs. I believe you are the expert of your own story and possess immense strengths. Taking the first step towards a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and I am here to support you in that process. While I'm currently based in Alaska and pursuing licensure here, I maintain my active California license and am committed to helping you on your healing journey.

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Kristin Perkins

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 77163
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoaching
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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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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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Gian Sarabia

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 150458
Trauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesBipolar disorderDepression
6 years of experience

I am clinically licensed in California with 5 years of professional psychotherapy practice. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder (expertise), psychosis, trauma/abuse, and bipolar disorder. 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 shows your own internal compass that desires wellness and emotional health, so that's great you are looking for the right fit!

This is Erica Nolasco's avatar and link to their profile

Erica Nolasco

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 107651
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

My name is Erica Nolasco, I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. My passion is helping indivduals overcome trauma, divorce, depression, anxiety, self-doubt and addiction. I welcome individuals and families to a safe nonjudgmental space with the goal of providing each client long lasting healing, personal growth and happiness. 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.

This is Mark Saverino's avatar and link to their profile

Mark Saverino

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 11155
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
35 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, 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.

This is Susan Richey's avatar and link to their profile

Susan Richey

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 49647
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in in California with over 10 years of experience working in clinical practice. I work with clients who experience a wide range of symptoms and concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, adult child issues, their own mature adult challenges, and retirement. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life as an older adult and to take the steps needed for still more changes in our lives. If you are ready to take those steps, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

This is Hyun Joo Kim's avatar and link to their profile

Hyun Joo Kim

Offering therapy in California
License: IL LMFT 166.012051, CA LMFT 53972
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience

I am licensed in California, Georgia, Illinois, Oregon and Washington with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Lonniel Myles's avatar and link to their profile

Lonniel Myles

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 138517
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

As a licensed therapist serving California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life challenges. My practice centers on helping clients address depression, anxiety, trauma, and self-esteem concerns with compassionate, culturally responsive care. I bring expertise in working with young adults, first responders, and individuals experiencing social anxiety, attachment issues, and addiction recovery. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique journey. I focus on creating a supportive environment where clients can explore communication challenges, process life transitions like divorce, and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to empower clients in building resilience, self-love, and effective coping mechanisms. With a commitment to holistic healing, I support individuals through diverse experiences—including chronic pain, men's mental health, family dynamics, and substance use recovery. My goal is to walk alongside you, honoring your strengths and supporting your path toward emotional wellness.

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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