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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Nadja Zapasov

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 40782
Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
20 years of experience

Nadja Zapasov (MA, LMFT) ABOUT ME Welcome! I salute you on your choice to get help in moving forward in your life. Once you have made that decision, your own positive energy will support you and guide you to the next level. Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it. Begin it now.” William Hutchison Murray The energy of one’s thoughts has the power to create an extraordinary life (or not). Directing your positive and constructive thoughts and emotions to the creation of your goals is the first step in achieving them. I would be honored to assist you in realizing the next step in your life plan, whether it is in the area of relationships, education or career, creative pursuits, coping with life changes, or your personal spiritual evolution. Your “world view” or what your beliefs are about life (and death) are the key to what is happening (or not happening) for you. If you change the way you think, you change the energy that creates things in your life. You are in control of your thoughts. Can you change how you think and what you believe? Of course! Are you looking to explore the possibility of a more spiritual perspective? Although I may not have all the definitive answers, I have learned enough not to fear death. I can help with the ability to discuss those spiritual questions and universal laws, and assist you in learning to use practical methods to move you towards living your best life. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California since 2004, with a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Phillips Graduate University. The last twelve years I have worked with the active military and their families, and supervised thirty psychotherapists in their work with adults, children, families, and couples on military installations. Most people are looking for a better balanced life between work and personal satisfaction, as well as better communication, self-esteem, stress management, and how to cope with anxiety, infidelity, body issues, infertility, and parenting. We will work together using educational videos, books, art projects, and various other techniques that will enlarge your personal insights and are sure to make life more interesting and exciting!...you are the most important project you can work on! I really look forward to working with you--on YOU!

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Dr. Paula Alvarez

Offering therapy in California
License: IL LCSW 149.023704, MO LCSW 2016036974
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
35 years of experience

Greetings! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the states of California, Illinois, and Missouri, and I have a doctorate in Organizational Psychology. I have worked in locked and outpatient mental health facilities for the last 30 years. I facilitated group treatment of domestic violence perpetrators in Spanish and English for eight years. I specialize in treating trauma-related symptoms, anxiety and depression, anger management, geriatric well-being, mental health recovery, cultural diversity issues, and self-esteem issues. My doctorate degree (EdD) In Leadership and Learning with a specialization in Organizational Psychology was conferred on May 27, 2021. I use a client-centered approach (Carl Rogers), and I know that the client is the expert. I tailor my therapy sessions to what the client wants. I used cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with those who like CBT interventions. I offer homework assignments and bibliotherapy for those clients who want those interventions. I also use Brief-Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. I invite you to contact me to see if I am a good fit to help and empower you on your journey to better living.

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Gema Martir

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 98858
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Andrea Plate

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 22904
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California, with 20 years of professional work experience. For nearly 15 years I ran a residential substance abuse treatment program within the West Los Angeles Department of Veterans Affairs, serving those suffering from homelessness and chronic mental illness. Now working with individuals in the population at large, I do my best to help clients cope with: anxiety, personal and professional setbacks, addiction, major life changes, relationship conflicts and career concerns. I also refine and enhance my practice through teaching social welfare and addiction at a major West Los Angeles university. 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.

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Aaliyah Rashad

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 98038
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that everyone has the ability to move in the direction of their goals and values. As a therapist and coach I see myself as as a facilitator and guide to help improve the alignment between what you want and the reality. You are the expert in your life. We will work as a team to explore cognitive processes and discover alternative ways to help you feel more joy, have better relationships, cope with life's challenges, and feel better overall. I utilize cognitive- behavioral (CBT), and acceptance- based (ACT) strategies infused with mindfulness in order to help clients feel better and live a life of meaning and purpose. I look forward to our journey together!

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Jasmine Ortiz

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 143363
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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. I am also Bilingual in English and Spanish.

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Laurentara Weinman

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 146164
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

You have taken the first step in seeking to overcome the things that challenge you in your life and that takes courage. And I am here to support you in that process. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with six years of professional experience. I specialize in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ and related issues, and depression. I will listen carefully to you to understand your issues, not only on a conscious level, but on a subconscious level as well. In that way, I will have a deeper understanding of the change you desire in your life. I will approach you with compassion and understanding and will approach your issues with no shame, blame or criticism. My hope would be that you find our sessions to be meaningful, effective, and rewarding, leading to a path for a more peaceful, productive, and joyful life.

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Kimberly Huerta

Offering therapy in California
License: CA Psychologist 35034
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed Clinical Psychologist in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Ginger Little

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 32446
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issues
35 years of experience

My name is Ginger Adam Little.I am a Marriage and Family Therapist. I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience. I work predominantly with men. I have specialized in working with men who have experienced troubled childhoods and now are having difficulties at home and/or at work. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, communication issues, work related issues, trauma and abuse, depression & coping with grief and loss. I am a Master Gestalt Psychotherapist , and as such I deal with the whole human being, not just thought patterns. 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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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.

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Louise Hoff

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 29553
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
36 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 36 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, & parenting issues. 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. 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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Angela Monson

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 84541
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, parenting issues & self-esteem. I also have experience working with professional coaching. I have experience working with parents and families struggling with the stress of daily life & wish to make a change. I also enjoy working with young people who are building their lives and are working to find themselves. 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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Brenda Palacios

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 109810
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
15 years of experience

I am licensed marriage and family therapist in California with 15 years of experience. I have worked with helping individuals manage the complexities of positively handling family conflict, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, and coping with life changes. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. I believe in treating everyone with respect, kindness, and compassion. I will modify our interactions and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. If I have the pleasure of working with you, I strive to challenge you to positively reframe the trials of life. I congratulate you on taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and joyful life. I am here to support you in that process. And I look forward to teaming with you in reaching your mental health goals.

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Sachie Uchimaru

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 60530
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionADHD
17 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing in California for 18 years. I specialize in helping clients manage anxiety and depression, as well as addressing trauma. I often work with college students on transitioning to college as well as executive functioning challenges. I am from Japan and fluent in Japanese.

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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