Finding therapists in California can still take time, even in major metro areas. Across California, many people face packed schedules, long commutes, and limited appointment openings when searching for a therapist in California. BetterHelp helps adults connect with online therapists serving California, including LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs, and psychologists who meet state requirements. Whether someone is moving through anxiety, depression, trauma, or a major life change, online therapy sessions can make support feel more doable from Los Angeles to San Francisco and beyond.

For people comparing therapists in California, BetterHelp offers flexible online care through one of the world's largest therapist networks, with more than 30,000 qualified providers globally and many individuals matched in 24 to 48 hours. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible individuals' average copay is $23 per session. If insurance is not available, subscription pricing typically ranges from $70 to $100 per week*, and online therapy can reduce common barriers by making it easier to fit care into daily life.

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

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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Felicia Profit

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 100756
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Hello- My name is Felicia, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have dedicated my career to assisting patients navigate the often very complex healthcare systems. I have a deep understanding of the challenges patients encounter when managing their chronic and complex conditions and barriers that often arise when attempting to access community resources. Through my professional and own personal journey, I can offer guidance and support when coping with having a medical diagnosis and I also understand the value it brings with having an expert to assist you with varies topics that arise through the health care system. I have a large family, and my family is what brings me joy. I treat All patients as if they were my family or my loved ones in need, as I put my full heart and energy in helping those that I serve. LCSW. LCSW’s can be valuable to patients in various ways: LCSW’s provide crisis intervention, case management, advocacy, education, family support, as well as provide therapy and counseling in private practice settings. These approaches can help patients cope with their challenges to improve their mental health and enhance their quality of life. The services I offer as an LCSW include: Behavioral Support: provide brief counseling and coaching to assist with establishing a therapist in the community Resource Connection: connect you to community resources such local, national, and connection to valuable resources that are often offered through your individual health plan Advocacy: advocate for your needs and provide education and review of processes pertaining to patient rights Addressing Social Determinants: identify and work to mitigate social factors such as housing, finances, or family support that may impact your ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Family support assist loved ones with ways to support you as well as support themselves to avoid burnout and increase the resources available to support you through your healing and ongoing health care needs

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Dr. Angela Buffington

Offering therapy in California
License: CA Psychologist PSY32331
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

Hello and welcome. I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California with 10 years of clinical experience. I have experience working with a wide range of clients from diverse backgrounds and ages. My specialty is treating adults with depression, anxiety, substance use issues, painful relationship patterns, and challenging life transitions. My approach to therapy is one of empathy and compassion for the difficulties that often leave us feeling stuck or overwhelmed. I work to create a nonjudgmental and supportive environment in which to explore difficult emotions and self-defeating patterns of thought and behavior that may be preventing you from living a full and meaningful life. I utilize mindfulness-based and cognitive behavioral (CBT) therapeutic approaches with the goals of increasing self-awareness and enhancing emotional strength and flexibility. I am committed to providing a safe space for you to identify your values, build on your strengths, and move forward with your life in a meaningful direction. I understand how difficult it can be to reach out for support when life feels overwhelming and unmanageable. If you are ready to take the first step, I would be honored to support you through that process.

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Ileana Gallegos

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW LCSW99167
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
7 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist in California with eight years of professional experience supporting individuals on their path to healing and personal growth. I specialize in helping clients navigate stress and anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma and abuse, and the complexities of grief and loss. My approach is rooted in respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I am committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and valued. Together, we will develop a personalized treatment plan that honors your unique experiences, strengths, and goals. Taking the first step toward therapy takes courage, and I commend you for investing in yourself. I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward greater well-being and fulfillment.

This is Ashby "Brooks" Larsen's avatar and link to their profile

Ashby "Brooks" Larsen

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 12724, UT LCSW 11035932-3501
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
58 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Utah with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Dr. Malcolm Stanislaus

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 46059
Trauma and abuseDepressionCoaching
40 years of experience

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!

This is Natarajan Gowda's avatar and link to their profile

Natarajan Gowda

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 24853
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping 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 stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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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Jo Ellen Clark

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 106161
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
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, depression, relationship issues, family conflicts, coping with grief, & coping with loss. 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. I have experience working as a social worker in a medical environment. I worked for over six years in our local trauma center in the Acute Rehab Unit (ARU). Through this experience I worked with individuals and families in acute crisis. Individuals dealt with immediate life changes impacting income, living arrangements, supportive relationships and possible altered physicality short and/or long term. Depression, anxiety, and dealing with interpersonal relationships were all part of the process of processing the life altering event. This experience gave me the opportunity to work with all ages, socioeconomic levels, education levels, ethnicities, cultures and back grounds while using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Systems Theory, Cultural Competency (client as expert) and an individual client focused approach to assist the client with their goals. I now work as a hospice social worker. Working with individuals and families dealing with end of life challenges, loss, grief and hopefully acceptance. Compassion, empathy, advocacy and listening are all pieces to assist individuals and families to cope with the end of life. It is not so different than working with any other client, I meet the client and families where they are. Assess one's needs and establish goals for client centered work. All the skills that are learned through my experiences are transferred to working with individuals whether it is life questions, road blocks to achieving goals or trauma to be worked through, the approach is met with companion, non judgement, support and open communication.

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Darci Simms

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 93159
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

My name is Darci C Simms and I've served the Central Valley of California as a Social Worker over 15 years. In my role as Licensed Clinical Social Worker I have experience working with all ages from 6 years to end of life. I have provided behavioral health therapy, case management, helping people cope with complex medical diagnoses and severe mental health illnesses, and provided patient advocacy and support services. I enjoy direct patient care and promote mental health and wellness. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Cerise Dossman's avatar and link to their profile

Cerise Dossman

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 109995
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients work through family conflicts, trauma, grief, and life transitions with compassion and cultural sensitivity. I bring a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by Black individuals and those seeking faith-aligned therapeutic support. My approach is rooted in empowering clients to explore their inner strengths, address feelings of isolation, and rediscover their sense of purpose. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a warm, affirming space where clients can heal from past wounds, rebuild self-esteem, and develop meaningful coping strategies. I'm committed to walking alongside you as you process difficult experiences, work through guilt and shame, and move toward personal growth and forgiveness. My goal is to provide culturally responsive care that honors your individual journey and supports your path to emotional wellness.

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Shannon Denny

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 45493
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteem
35 years of experience

I'm a therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals through life's most challenging transitions. Over my career, I've worked with clients navigating stress, anxiety, addiction, family conflicts, and grief. I'm particularly passionate about helping people cultivate self-love, improve communication, and work through guilt, shame, and forgiveness—especially during difficult life changes like divorce and separation. My approach is grounded in compassion and a deep respect for each person's unique journey. I understand that healing often involves examining our relationships with ourselves and others, and I'm committed to creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where that work can happen. For clients who value faith as part of their healing process, I'm honored to integrate Christian perspectives into our work together. I believe that therapy is most effective when it honors your whole self—including your values and beliefs. I'm here to walk alongside you with care, honesty, and genuine support as you move toward greater peace and wholeness.

This is Manju Petty's avatar and link to their profile

Manju Petty

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 160452
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I'm a therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals through life's most challenging transitions. Over my career, I've worked with clients navigating depression, anxiety, stress, and the complexities of self-esteem and identity. I'm particularly skilled at helping people work through career difficulties and major life changes—whether that's a job transition, relationship shift, or unexpected loss. My approach is grounded in genuine respect for who you are and where you come from. I believe in creating a therapeutic space that honors your values, background, and unique perspective. I work collaboratively with my clients, drawing on evidence-based practices to help you build resilience and clarity at your own pace. I'm committed to being direct, honest, and present with the people I work with. My goal is to walk alongside you with compassion and without judgment, helping you move toward the life you want to build. If you're ready to take that first step, I'm honored to support you.

This is Sione Tupou's avatar and link to their profile

Sione Tupou

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 137113
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I'm a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through life's transitions and challenges. With experience working with diverse clients, I specialize in helping people navigate depression, anxiety, stress, and the complexities of identity and relationships. My approach is grounded in affirming and culturally responsive care. I work with clients on self-esteem, communication, attachment patterns, and processing guilt and shame. I'm particularly skilled at supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, men's issues, and multicultural concerns, and I bring authentic understanding to conversations around sexuality, workplace dynamics, and life transitions. I believe in creating a space where you feel seen, valued, and supported exactly as you are. Whether you're working through mood challenges, relationship difficulties, or navigating major life changes, I'm here to help you build resilience and move toward greater self-compassion and authenticity. Starting therapy takes courage, and I'm honored to walk alongside you on your journey.

This is Keyla Decos's avatar and link to their profile

Keyla Decos

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 112463
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I'm a therapist with a decade of experience supporting individuals through some of life's most challenging moments. I specialize in helping people navigate depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, grief, and concerns around self-esteem. I also work with clients exploring communication patterns, life purpose, social anxiety, guilt and shame, and posttraumatic stress. My approach is grounded in compassion and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your experiences at your own pace. Whether you're working through past trauma, managing mood challenges, or seeking clarity about your direction in life, I'm here to support your journey toward healing and growth. I'm honored by the trust my clients place in me, and I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine care and understanding.

*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.

Find the right therapist for your needs
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