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 Amy Torn's avatar and link to their profile

Amy Torn

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 44895, PA LMFT MF001804
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

Hello! I am a California- and Pennsylvania-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with 25 years of experience counseling children, teens, and adults. I have trained and practiced extensively as a cognitive-behavioral therapist, and I also have a passion for mindfulness, self-compassion, and holistic approaches for greater well-being. In counseling, I invite people to cultivate greater self-acceptance; release themselves from the burden of limiting, distressing beliefs; and find meaning and opportunity in challenging experiences. It is very possible to be free from suffering! I offer a compassionate, research-based, and collaborative approach to counseling - as well as Eastern and Western Spiritual perspectives to those who may be interested. I love to listen deeply and to offer questions for self-exploration, also. I have a passion and specialty in assisting teens and adults who are experiencing anxiety, as well as those who wish to be more loving/accepting of themselves. I also have a strong interest in supporting individuals with chronic illnesses or other physical challenges, as well as their loved ones. My other professional roles are as an astrologer and a Reiki (Japanese energy healing) practitioner. I also offer dream interpretation sessions, utilizing a research-based model developed at the University of Maryland. In my free time, I care for several animal friends, study Spanish, meditate, hike, and bake vegan cookies. I lived in Southern California for two decades and now reside in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Thank you for viewing my site. It will be a joy to connect with you!

This is Dr. Paula Alvarez's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Paula Alvarez

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 19790, IL LCSW 149.023704
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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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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Richard Berg

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 44229
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Vesna Sturman

Offering therapy in California
License: CA Psychologist 28290
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

Hello, I specialize in anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and trauma (in 1996 I received a certificate in the treatment of trauma). My post doctorate was at a residential substance abuse center, and I have treated many clients with this issue both there and in my private practice. While I was at the treatment center, I created a mindfulness curriculum, and I conducted several types of group therapy. The people that I treated in private practice often had more than one concern and I found that the techniques of mindfulness, guided imagery, and biofeedback helped them a great deal. I tend to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (including exposure therapy) and short-term therapy, depending on the client. Tapping is a recent addition to my repertoire. My clients have been children aged 5-10 and adults. I have diagnosed many persons and I have written letters to lawyers and the State Disability Insurance department on behalf of my clients. Due to the pandemic, I closed my private practice office and I have recently used telehealth to counsel clients. Sincerely, Dr. Vesna Sturman, Psy 28290

This is Eileen Maxwel's avatar and link to their profile

Eileen Maxwel

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 50173
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with depression. I 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!

This is Denise Gutirrez-Miller's avatar and link to their profile

Denise Gutirrez-Miller

Offering therapy in California
License: OK LCSW 22223, CA LCSW LCSW87095
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Oklahoma with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem and confidence, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I have worked with many populations, from developmentally disabled to SED teens to adults. I enjoy meeting people and seek to make others' lives better. I would love to work with you and help you become the best version of yourself. I am a born-again Christian and available for those needing to understand themselves according to Scripture. My availability is 10am to 4pm Central Time.

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.

This is Marilyn Brodersen's avatar and link to their profile

Marilyn Brodersen

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 8930
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
30 years of experience

As a licensed therapist with three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice focuses on helping clients address stress, anxiety, depression, relationship dynamics, and personal growth, with particular expertise in supporting adults through significant life stages. I bring a compassionate and nuanced approach to therapy, drawing from extensive clinical experience to help individuals work through issues like isolation, grief, body image concerns, and workplace challenges. My therapeutic style emphasizes understanding each person's unique journey, with a deep commitment to supporting clients in rediscovering purpose, managing shame and guilt, and developing healthier emotional patterns. My work centers on creating a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, heal from past experiences, and develop meaningful strategies for personal transformation. I am dedicated to walking alongside individuals as they build resilience, self-understanding, and renewed hope.

This is Sherri Kardell's avatar and link to their profile

Sherri Kardell

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 113970
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
7 years of experience

Dear potential client (s) My name is Sherri and I am a licensed marriage family therapist and life coach in California. I offer psychotherapy and life coaching to individuals grappling with some of life's more challenging transitions. Whether you are experiencing grief from the loss of a significant loved one, the end of the a significant relationship, or have a broken heart, I am here to be a calm presence during turbulent times. Perhaps you are experiencing a cycle of stops and starts, but have been unable to access a sense of inner calm. Or you have experienced repetitive patterns of loneliness, an inability to decipher your life's purpose, or you struggle to form and/or maintain intimate partnerships. I work with individuals in order to improve self confidence and live more authentic lives, resolve relationship conflicts, and process early relational wounding and trauma in order to resolve faulty belief systems and address unconscious patterns. I work primarily from an attachment based understanding of human development that seeks to reclaim aspects of the self that were left by the wayside in order to adapt to early conditioning, often related to cultural norms, rigid gender conditioning, and outdated social expectations. I offer a depth of tools designed to help you reconnect with your core sense of self, and heal early relational wounding that have shaped your belief systems and sense of worthiness in the world. In addition to 6 + years of clinical experience, I have earned the highest level of education in my field. Additionally, I have committed myself to a decade if spiritual practice, which has given me the ability to see through entrenched defense systems and patterns, and has helped me to develop a deep sense of empathy and attunement to the unconscious whispers of the soul. I offer a highbred approach to psychotherapy that often includes life-coaching. I conceptualize my role as akin to the Irish concept of "soul friend" a Celtic concept that emphasizes the importance of having someone that acts as a confidant that connects and understands you at the deepest level. Thus, I believe in treating others with respect, sensitively and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific goals. I understand, from my own experience, that taking the first step towards a more fulfilling life often takes courage and I am here to support you in that process.

This is Summyr Harris's avatar and link to their profile

Summyr Harris

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 16097
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, & anger management. I also have experience working with depression. 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.

This is Aruna Prabha Boyineni's avatar and link to their profile

Aruna Prabha Boyineni

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 158979
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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. I , being a first generation South Asian specialize in working with South Asian community. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Kiumars Vafai's avatar and link to their profile

Kiumars Vafai

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 160908
AddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome feelings of isolation while addressing challenges like depression, relationship dynamics, and life transitions. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a compassionate and affirming therapeutic space where clients can explore their inner experiences. My work focuses on empowering individuals to build resilience, enhance self-esteem, and discover meaningful pathways through personal struggles. I understand that healing is a deeply personal journey, and I'm committed to walking alongside my clients with genuine respect, cultural sensitivity, and collaborative support. Together, we'll work to transform challenging emotions like guilt and shame into opportunities for growth, self-forgiveness, and renewed purpose.

This is Nancy Plancarte's avatar and link to their profile

Nancy Plancarte

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 136325
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication skills, and overcome social anxiety. With a deep understanding of relationship dynamics, family conflicts, and personal growth challenges, I create a compassionate space where individuals can explore their inner experiences and build emotional resilience. My professional practice focuses on addressing depression, stress, anxiety, and self-esteem challenges. I am committed to walking alongside my clients, offering culturally responsive and empathetic guidance that honors each person's unique journey. Through collaborative and strength-based strategies, I support clients in developing meaningful insights and practical tools for personal transformation. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to empower individuals to cultivate deeper self-understanding, heal emotional wounds, and create more fulfilling connections with themselves and others. My work is grounded in respect, authenticity, and a genuine belief in each client's capacity for growth and healing.

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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