Finding a therapist in California can feel harder than it should, even in a state with so many large metro areas. In busy places like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, demand for in-person care can mean long waits, high session fees, and fewer options that fit a person's schedule. For people looking for therapists in California, online therapy through BetterHelp can make care easier to start, with licensed professionals available statewide and sessions that can happen from home or anywhere with an internet connection.

BetterHelp connects people to one of the world's largest networks of therapists, with more than 30,000 qualified providers globally, and many people are matched in 24 to 48 hours. For those comparing California therapists online, the current payment model usually ranges from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly depending on factors like location and therapist availability. BetterHelp offers insurance options for some people seeking online therapy in California. Eligible individuals pay an average copay of $23 per session, though availability, coverage, and costs vary based on plan, provider network, therapist availability, and state.

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This is Patricia Riley's avatar and link to their profile

Patricia Riley

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 25356
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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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Dr. Frederick Smoot

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 12959
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (CA #12959) with over 15 years of experience counseling/ accompanying persons through difficult parts of their life-journeys. I have worked with a wide range of concerns including Isolation. loneliness, fearfulness, anxiety, intimacy/relationship issues, parenting and career challenges, addiction, physical and emotional abuse and life transitions. My counseling style is warm, curious and appropriately truth-telling.. I treat others with respect and consistent presence. I work to sustain and shame-free context that empowers persons to (re)claim their lies and future with dignity. I am an accompanist, using therapeutic tools gathered from several clinical approaches. I am relational, client centered, mindful, and strategic. I believe that direction and goals for therapy are shaped together with the client. We will tailor a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Your willingness to reach out for support shows your courage and desire for a better future. I encourage you to take this step, accompanied and supported I look forward to working with you.

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Diana Bernhardy

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW LCS13837
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
32 years of experience

Hello, my name is Diana Bernhardy. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years experience working with diverse groups and treatment issues. Past experiences have included primarily working in a forensic inpatient psychiatric mental health facility providing dydactic treatment with individuals with moderate to severe mental disorders, antisocial /criminal behaviors, and substance abuse. I've also worked in private practice and outpatient mental health services providing various treatment modalities and interventions in addressing various topics, i.e., depression, anxiety, stress, anger, grief/loss , separation issues, self esteem issues, women issues, PTSD/trauma, and case management. I explore the mental, behavior and spiritual aspects of the person to achieve wholeness and wellness. Thank you for reading my profile and I look forward to working with you.

This is Nathalie Contro's avatar and link to their profile

Nathalie Contro

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 131775
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
3 years of experience

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.

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Bertha Ruvalcaba

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 60574
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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.

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Susan Davis

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 19986
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesDepression
35 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience. Over the years I have been in private practice, have created and overseen a training program for MFT interns, supervised 3 and 4th years psychiatric residents in their therapy hours, coauthored 2 books on community mental health and acted as adjunct professors at 3 different universities. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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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Stacy Brown

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC LPCC20476, TX LPC 69278
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsEating disordersAnger managementADHD
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, eating disorders, & anger management. 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 Oksana Shiell's avatar and link to their profile

Oksana Shiell

Offering therapy in California
License: AR LMFT M2402001, CA LMFT 50698
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am a California-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, practicing since 2011 and serving as a clinical supervisor since 2017. I bring many years of experience—both pre-licensed and post-licensed—working with teens and supporting individuals and families through a variety of challenges. My areas of focus include stress and anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I approach therapy with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I believe in tailoring our conversations and treatment plan to fit your unique needs and goals. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and balanced life takes courage. I'm here to support you every step of the way.

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Matthew Poje

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 11515, WI LPC 4911-125
Trauma and abuse
20 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Matt Poje, LPCC. I specialize in the healing of emotional trauma, using the Instinctual Trauma Response method (ITR). I have 15 years working with Veterans via Department of Defense contracts, and over 23 yrs of professional work experience. I am licensed in CA and WI. The ITR method uses over 100 years of neuroscience to help heal the brain. Since ITR uses neuroscience, you will learn the steps of the ITR method that will help you to become more resilient. ITR is not talk therapy in the classical sense. ITR is a focused, purposeful method of trauma healing and proven to work. If you are ready to work on a proven method of reducing symptoms of trauma, I look forward to work with you. I do not perform diagnostic tests. I use screening tools, and therefore will not provide any letters to employers or court systems. Before scheduling a session, watch the ITR video: https://vimeo.com/752151441

This is Angelica Curiel-Torres's avatar and link to their profile

Angelica Curiel-Torres

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 106787
Relationship issuesCoping with life changes
8 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, relationship issues, anger management, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is June Cichowicz's avatar and link to their profile

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.

This is Christine Taylor-Brown's avatar and link to their profile

Christine Taylor-Brown

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 38306
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Carole Arlt's avatar and link to their profile

Carole Arlt

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 50687
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

As a licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. I have deep expertise in supporting individuals struggling with social anxiety, isolation, and feelings of loneliness, and I'm particularly passionate about helping people rediscover their sense of purpose and personal meaning. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and collaborative, designed to create a safe space where clients can explore difficult emotions, work through past experiences, and develop healthier coping strategies. I understand that healing is a deeply personal journey, and I'm committed to walking alongside my clients with empathy, respect, and professional guidance. I welcome clients of all backgrounds, with a special sensitivity to older adults and those seeking a non-religious therapeutic approach. Whether you're dealing with panic attacks, processing a significant life change like divorce, or working through feelings of guilt and shame, I'm here to support your growth and emotional well-being.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find Therapy Near You in California

Finding a licensed therapist near you in California can be a meaningful step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or a major life change, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer real support.

With a population of 32,349,851, California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in California, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Search for a therapist by what matters to you

The search filters and location matching are built to handle specific, near-me searches. If you are looking for a therapist near you in California for anxiety, trauma, grief, LGBTQIA+ support, or another focus, you can filter by specialty, language, therapist identity, and other preferences to narrow the list to providers who fit what you need.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

A licensed therapist near you meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in California (CA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help people manage emotional challenges, build coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many people start therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or build greater self-awareness. Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across California, where access to in-person care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across California with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

When searching for a therapist near me in California, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across California, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across California.

Finding a therapist near you who accepts insurance

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status. When sessions are covered, eligible members' average copay is about $23 per session. Coverage details are shown during the sign-up process. When using insurance, certain BetterHelp features may be limited or unavailable, including chat-based sessions, groups and classes, and select self-help tools.

If insurance is not part of how you want to pay, BetterHelp's subscription option is also available, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may be available for a lower price, and HSA and FSA funds can be used where eligible.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp simplifies finding a therapist near you in California, so you do not have to search through profiles on your own. Here is how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in California (CA)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world's largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process. You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in California

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across California, including residents in San Joaquin, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Modoc, Riverside, Madera, Alameda, Contra Costa, Mendocino, Humboldt, Orange, Sierra, Solano, Tulare, Plumas, Marin, San Diego, Alpine, Placer, Nevada, Calaveras, Santa Clara, Amador, Napa, Santa Cruz, Shasta, Sacramento, Colusa, Kings, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Glenn, Kern, Mono, San Mateo, Merced, Fresno, El Dorado, Santa Barbara, Butte, Tehama, Lassen, Trinity, Tuolumne, Inyo, Monterey, Sonoma, Imperial, Mariposa, Yuba, Stanislaus, Siskiyou, Ventura, Yolo, Lake, Del Norte, Sutter, San Francisco.

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 you

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs depend on the provider, how you pay, and where you live. In-person sessions can cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp's subscription option typically ranges from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may be available for a lower price. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and when sessions are covered, eligible members' average copay is about $23 per session. Coverage and pricing may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status. When sessions are covered, eligible members' average copay is about $23 per session. Coverage details are shown during the sign-up process. When using insurance, certain BetterHelp features may be limited or unavailable, including chat-based sessions, groups and classes, and select self-help tools.

Is online therapy effective?

Research suggests online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy connects you with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office, which can make it easier to keep regular sessions.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to start therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on your preferences and therapist availability.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If your therapist is not the right match, you can request a different licensed provider at no additional cost. You can do this through the BetterHelp user portal by selecting the option to switch therapists.

Is online therapy discreet?

Yes. Online therapy through BetterHelp lets you connect with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools, from the comfort of home.

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