Finding a therapist in California can be challenging, even in major cities, when high costs, long wait times, or limited availability make in-person care difficult. Whether you live in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, or a smaller community, online therapy through BetterHelp offers statewide access to licensed mental health professionals without the need to commute. BetterHelp is one of the world’s largest online therapy platforms, with 30,000+ licensed therapists globally and more than 6 million people helped worldwide.

With BetterHelp, you can connect with a licensed California therapist from home at times that fit your schedule to work through concerns like anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, relationship challenges, and life transitions. The platform delivers proven results, with 72% of users experiencing a reduction in symptoms within 12 weeks, and a 4.9 out of 5 average session rating from over 1.7 million reviews. While insurance is not yet available in California, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model typically ranges from $70–$100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors like location, source, preferences, therapist availability and any applicable discounts or promotions that might apply. Learn more about future coverage on our insurance page.

Browse licensed therapists in California and find a match that works for your needs, schedule, and coverage.

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This is Chris (Christopher) McKillop's avatar and link to their profile

Chris (Christopher) McKillop

Offering therapy in California
License: NC LCMHC 10581, CA LPCC 17895
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepression
11 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California, Maine and North Carolina, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients understand and manage depression, anxiety, and stress, with a particular focus on anger management strategies. I create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their challenges and develop meaningful coping skills. My therapeutic style is grounded in respect for each person's unique journey, with a commitment to providing supportive, evidence-based guidance. Through collaborative and personalized treatment, I aim to empower clients to build resilience, gain emotional insight, and create positive change in their lives. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage, and I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, professionalism, and genuine care.

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Donna Reed

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 103910
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
23 years of experience

Welcome to Betterhelp! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California with over 12 years of experience in providing high quality care to individuals seeking to become the best version of themselves. I am certified in Evidence Based Programs such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP), and Seeking Safety Treatment Model. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting problems, and toxic self-image beliefs. I also helped many people who have experienced physical/sexual trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm using empathetic listening and creating an atmosphere in which my clients feel safe. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I want clients to feel understood rather than being judged. My approach combines cognitive behavioral, client/person-centered, solution-focused, psychodynamic, trauma-focused CBT, and teaching individuals how to be kind to self. I will tailor our treatment plans to meet your unique and specific needs. When you are ready to take your first step towards change, I am here to help guide you toward a more productive life. I look forward to working with you.

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Mark Daniels

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 9713
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
43 years of experience

Hello, my name is Mark A. Daniels, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have over 45 years of direct clinical experience in the public and private sector. I have worked with consumers with a wide range of challenges and concerns that include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, career issues, and anger management. I also have expertise working with culturally diverse consumers, and consumers who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. I have also worked extensively with consumers within the forensic psychiatric arena including state prisons, county jails, and state hospitals. My therapeutic interventions are supportive, interactive, validating, and nonjudgmental. I embrace treating everyone with respect, compassion and with unconditional positive regard. My approach combines cognitive behavioral interventions, humanistic, mindfulness, and psychosocial interventions. I will tailor our dialogue, and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Everyone has value and are important in life's journey, sometimes we need to share each other's strength to make it from Monday to Tuesday. Congratulations on your decision to seek empowerment and to enhance your current emotional being. I appreciate your courage and look forward to assisting you on this journey. Together we will work to access your inner strength, wisdom and talent to help you become stronger and better than ever before. You don't have to do this alone. Sincerely, Mark A. Daniels, LCSW

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Janetta Berry- Sissoko

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 15805, NV LCPC CP5791-R
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 14 years of experience in the mental health and behavioral health field. I am licensed to practice in Oklahoma, Texas, Washington, California, and Nevada. Throughout my career, I have worked with individuals facing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance use, and court-ordered treatment. This diverse experience allows me to support clients with compassion, structure, and a clear understanding of complex challenges. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and respectful. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, valued, and supported. I believe meaningful change is possible for anyone who is willing to engage in the process, and my role is to guide and support you every step of the way. My primary approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Together, we will identify unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior, develop practical coping strategies, and work toward goals that are meaningful to you. Treatment is always individualized—I tailor each session and treatment plan to meet your unique needs and circumstances. Recognizing that something in your life needs to change takes courage, and reaching out for support is a powerful first step. I would be honored to partner with you on your journey toward growth, healing, and lasting change. I look forward to working with you.

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Rachelle Salerno

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 20843
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
26 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 26 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 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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William Wheaton

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 132702, FL LCSW SW20856
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

I have been clinically licensed approaching seven years in Georgia and Florida. I have been in the Social Work profession for twenty-three years. Throughout that time I have worked with diverse as well as marginalized populations at various phases of life. I have clinical experience with Active Duty Military, Veterans, Healthcare Professionals, and the General Public. I am veteran, as well as former Law Enforcement Officer. I have used every opportunity to be a resource to my community. My approach is simple. Strength based, trauma informed, and goal oriented. I have been away from Telehealth for a few years working directly in my community. I look forward to the opportunity to now support you along this journey.

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Melissa Fletcher

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 136996, CO LCSW CSW.09928936
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am a retired 20yr military veteran, raised 4 girls on my own (I graduated from parenting school after they left the house!! Lol.), licensed in Colorado with 11 years of professional therapy work experience and over 23 years of mental health experience. I am a certified Anger Management and Emotional Intelligence Instructor. DISCLAIMER: I am a "Reality Therapist." I am also going to challenge you. I can be blunt, but harmless. :-). If you are ready for a healthy challenge to think about changing things for yourself, improve your quality of life, and/or needing some uplifting/empowerment, I am that Therapist! What this means is, reality therapy sees current behavior as choices, and it teaches us that while we cannot control how we feel, we can control how we think and behave. We choose to behave in certain ways and these choices can help or hamper the ability to satisfy essential needs and reach individual goals. This type of therapy also uses choice theory, the behaviors we choose are key to our accountability and who we are. The goal of this type of therapy is to help people take control of improving their own lives by learning to make better choices. (Psychology Today). I engage clients with cognitive reframing helps to have you look at your situation from a different perspective. I have also provided support to clients needing help managing stress and anxiety/panic attacks, anger, motivation, self-esteem, improving confidence, and depressive symptoms. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor your session and goals to meet your specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage and I am here to support you in that process. Just remember, mistakes are proof that you are trying your best. Thank you for allowing me to help you!

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

Tiffany Whittington

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 150425
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Sophia Dyer

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 126475
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, 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.

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Sharron Robinson

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 48510
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring over two decades of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients to navigate challenging life transitions, relationships, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, stress management, and LGBTQ+ wellness. My approach honors each person's unique journey, with a deep commitment to understanding intersectional experiences and supporting diverse identities. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients explore self-love, communication challenges, isolation, life purpose, and healing from shame and guilt. I'm particularly passionate about supporting women, individuals navigating relationship transitions, and those working through family dynamics and attachment issues. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a compassionate, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. My goal is to walk alongside you with genuine understanding and professional support.

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Grace Lu

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 151683
Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
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.

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 Monica Guerrero's avatar and link to their profile

Monica Guerrero

Offering therapy in California
License: NY LCSW 079091, CA LCSW 136218
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

As a clinical licensed therapist in New York, New Jersey, and California, I bring over two decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, grief, and self-esteem issues with culturally sensitive and personalized care. I specialize in addressing diverse concerns including communication difficulties, and life transitions. My approach honors each person's unique journey, focusing on building self-love, understanding personal purpose, and developing meaningful coping strategies. Drawing from extensive professional training, I offer bilingual therapy services in both English and Spanish. My commitment is to create a supportive, affirming space where individuals can explore their emotions, heal from past experiences, and cultivate inner strength. I believe in empowering clients to discover their inherent resilience and potential for growth.

This is Dr. Nima Zahedi's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Nima Zahedi

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 23825
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am Dr. Zahedi, Psy.D., LCSW. I have been practicing in California since 2002 and have been licensed by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences since 2007. I have my bachelors degree in psychology (1996 CSU Fullerton), my master's degree in medical social work (2002 CSU Long Beach) and my doctorate in clinical psychology (2017 California Southern University). My schedule is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Anxiety, depression, grief and trauma are all core forces that are a part of a normal and healthy life. However, it is common to mismanage, avoid and/or neglect these life forces. I have found that in most cases it appears to be anxiety that must first be recognized, and it starts with the anxiety about therapy itself, the therapeutic alliance and the evaluation process. Most people do not like to be evaluated, which is understandable, but evaluation is the first step in the process. I will send you a link to a very simple Squarespace website I drafted myself. My Squarespace website is not fancy, but it is informative.

Find Therapy Near You in California

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

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in California (CA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop 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 major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across 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, where access to in-person mental health 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 that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in California want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in California without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s 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.

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 me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek 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 for online therapy may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

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 private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

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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