When it comes to finding a therapist, Irvine, CA seems like the place to look. With a large population and close proximity to LA, counseling services shouldn’t be difficult to find. However, it isn’t always so easy finding the right therapist to meet your needs. With all of the evidence-based therapeutic approaches available, there’s no guarantee that a therapist who practices the one that works best for your mental health needs will be nearby, or even taking new clients.
Online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp allows you to connect with over 30,000 mental health professionals who work with mental wellness across a number of specialties, including marriage/family therapists for family conflict, therapists who treat mood disorders, including guidance during and after ketamine therapy, and therapists who are experts on healing the effects of trauma and other emotional stress. By filling out a simple online questionnaire, BetterHelp will match you with a therapist to meet your individual needs. And because therapeutic alliance is an essential factor in success, if for any reason you don’t feel that your therapist is a good match you can switch at no extra cost.
Online therapy can also be a convenient option for many. Sessions can easily fit into a busy schedule, and video chat, phone, and text messaging options allow you to talk to your therapist from the comfort of your own home or office.
Mental wellness is a common goal for most of us, and while there is help available, often the first step of the healing process is the most difficult one to take. Whether you’re looking for a compassionate therapist to help you manage symptoms of a mental health condition, heal a past trauma, or simply want to take a more holistic approach to your overall health and well-being, BetterHelp can offer support and guidance in taking that important first step.
JP (Jean-Pierre) De Oliveira Estevão
As a licensed therapist in Texas and California, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life challenges with compassion and cultural sensitivity. My practice centers on helping clients navigate diverse experiences, including LGBTQ+ journeys, multicultural concerns, and personal growth. My therapeutic approach is holistic and affirming, drawing from extensive expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship dynamics. I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their emotions, heal from past experiences, and develop stronger self-understanding. With a deep understanding of intersectionality, I welcome clients from all backgrounds and identities. My work focuses on empowering individuals to overcome challenges related to self-love, communication, isolation, life purpose, and personal transformation. I bring a non-judgmental, collaborative approach to help clients build resilience and meaningful connections.
Nancy Montes
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 22 years of professional work experience. I am Bilingual (Fluent in English & Spanish), Bi-Cultural and believe in being cultural sensitive. I have helped individuals from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, including Hispanic populations, at-risk children, adolescents, adults, families, couples. I am skilled in assisting clients work through and resolve issues with grief/loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, ODD, truancy, life and social skills, anger, and parenting. 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. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
Breanna "Bre" Spehn
Hi, I’m Bre, preferred pronouns she/they. I am a licensed professional counselor in California and Oregon, with over eight years of experience. I have worked with individuals of all ages, with different backgrounds, and across a wide variety of settings. Within sessions, I take a humanistic approach while remaining rooted in mindfulness. From receiving a Master of Arts in Contemplative Psychotherapy and Buddhist Psychology from Naropa University, to completing a 500 Hour Holistic Yoga Teacher Training with Adi Yogpeeth, I have gained a variety of skills in order to show up fully for others. I remain an active participant in deepening my self-awareness through ongoing therapy, yoga, and meditation as these practices aid in my self-discovery of inherent compassion so that I'm able to guide others with humility and grace. Diversity and inclusion are crucial for me in my personal life, and in my career as a therapist. While working from a social justice lens, I invite conversation regarding bias, privilege, and power. Throughout my diverse experiences in the field, I have increased my competency as well as my confidence in being of service to others. Let's create a safe and supportive space together that is unique to your needs as an individual!
Melissa Macgown
Hello! My name is Melissa and I love what I do! Counseling people is my life's work and I've been doing it 14 years. Whatever it is you are going through, I can assure you, I have worked with someone who has dealt with something similar. I specialize in treating addiction issues, as I've worked in 5 different in-patient drug and alcohol treatment centers/rehabs in my career. Though I have years of professional experience working with an array of all kinds of issues and different populations. I greatly enjoy working with individuals and families. I also have several years experience working with teens, including those who have grown up in the system, been abused, and at high-risk, or with behavioral or learning problems. Clients feedback is often reported to me as: I am "easy to talk to," "friendly," and "down to earth." I've also been told I am helpful and a "good listener;" that is important to me. I am mostly solution-focused, meaning...I want to understand the problem, but then want to get into the tough work of finding solutions as soon as possible. As a therapist, I have a lot of empathy, am caring, and invested in improving your life circumstances. I am non-judgmental and believe that no matter how similar or different we may be, we can work together and develop a rapport. We can start right away, opening lines of communication so I can understand where you are coming from and help in anyway I can. My hope is to develop a warm, and trusting relationship in which you feel comfortable, and heard. One of my favorite things to hear as a therapist from a client is, "exactly," because I know we are on the same page, and I smile when a client says after session, " I feel much better." That is my aspiration, to help, and get to know you. Please understand that this is not just a job for me. I am genuinely here for you! Thank you for taking the time to read my profile and learn more about me as a professional.
Adam Hewitt
Hello! My name is Adam Hewitt, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Missouri. I have been with BetterHelp since 2021 after spending several years in private practice as a mental health therapist and substance abuse counselor. I've always been passionate about helping people overcome their challenges. When it comes to therapy, I like to keep things friendly and honest. I will never talk down to you or make you feel like a burden. I find it incredibly rewarding to see the joy on people's faces when they realize just how strong they can be, whether it's facing their fears, overcoming addictions, or taking control of their lives. As for my therapeutic approach, I focus on your strengths. I believe that everyone has innate abilities that can help them achieve their life goals, and it is my job to help you find yours. I take a mindfulness based approach, and am very sensitive to how technology and culture intersect to make our lives more complicated. I've worked significantly with people dealing with trauma, substance and gaming addiction, and systemic oppression. My aim is to help individuals become empowered to go out into the world feeling in charge of their lives. I don't consider myself to work for an agency; I'm here because of you. My promise is to let you take the lead to make the changes in your life that are meaningful to you. My hope is that my openness and positive attitude will make you feel trusted and inspired to live the life you deserve.
(Louise) Karin Wiese
As a licensed therapist in California and Missour I support especially couples as well as individuals navigating complex life challenges with compassion and understanding. My practice focuses on helping couples, marriages, blended families as well as individual clients with communication, addressing stress, anxiety, infidelity and family conflicts, and with trauma recovery. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive, faith-sensitive environment that honors each person's unique journey. My approach centers on empowering clients to develop stronger communication skills, rebuild self-love, and work through challenging emotional experiences. With expertise in women's issues as well as a heart for steuggles of single dads, life transitions, and multicultural concerns, I offer a holistic approach that respects individual experiences. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, workplace challenges, or personal growth, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. My therapeutic style integrates evidence-based practices with a warm, collaborative approach, helping clients discover their inner strength and create meaningful pathways toward healing and personal transformation and using CBT when necessary. For couples I am trained in Gottman Methods as well as Edmotional Focused Therapy (EFT) and favour this approach for the struggles in marriage and reltionships.
Diana Bernhardy
Hello, my name is Diana Bernhardy. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years experience working with diverse groups and treatment issues. Past experiences have included primarily working in a forensic inpatient psychiatric mental health facility providing dydactic treatment with individuals with moderate to severe mental disorders, antisocial /criminal behaviors, and substance abuse. I've also worked in private practice and outpatient mental health services providing various treatment modalities and interventions in addressing various topics, i.e., depression, anxiety, stress, anger, grief/loss , separation issues, self esteem issues, women issues, PTSD/trauma, and case management. I explore the mental, behavior and spiritual aspects of the person to achieve wholeness and wellness. Thank you for reading my profile and I look forward to working with you.
Pamela Collins
I am licensed in California with 28 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 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.
Melissa Fletcher
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!
Matthew Poje
Welcome! My name is Matt Poje, LPCC. I specialize in the healing of emotional trauma, using the Instinctual Trauma Response method (ITR),I have 15 years working with Veterans via Department of Defense contracts, and over 23 yrs of professional work experience. I am licensed in CA and WI. The ITR method uses over 100 years of neuroscience to help heal the brain. Since ITR uses neuroscience, you will learn the steps of the ITR method that will help you to become more resilient. ITR is not talk therapy in the classical sense. ITR is a focused, purposeful method of trauma healing. ITR is proven to work. If you are ready to work on a proven method of reducing symptoms of trauma, I look forward to work with you. I do not perform diagnostic tests. I use screening tools, and therefore will not provide any letters to employers or court systems. Before scheduling a session, Watch ITR videos: https://vimeo.com/752151441
Dr. Nathanial Hinerman
I am licensed in California with 25 years of clinical psychology experience working with individuals and couples of all types and diagnoses. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I am also expert in teaching mindfulness and meditation as well, if you're interested. I also have deep experience working with addictions of all sorts. 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 encourage you in getting started! I have a PhD in Philosophy of Religion under Huston Smith at Berkeley, GTU, and a second Phd in Evolutionary Psychology. My licensure is as an LMFT. I can help patients with a variety of backgrounds achieve their goals using these paths as well. My approach is a weave of Dr. Rick Hanson, Phd, UC Berkeley, Dr. Tracy Marks, MD, and evolutionary approaches to distress taught by Dr. Robert Sapolsky, MD, PhD, Joseph Goldstein, and using the timeless teachings from various wisdom traditions, including Western and Eastern approaches... (I also maintain a primary specialty working with gifted teens and young adults. I have deep experience treating people whose life is in the public eye as well, should that be you.) I am also a widower, a single Dad to twin teenage girls, and a competitive distance runner here in SF's Haight Ashbury. I'd love to work with you❤️. Dr. Nate
Leslie Patt
I am licensed male therapist in California. I am not allowed to work with anyone not located in California during the therapy session. I have 30 plus years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients and couples with relationship issues, family conflicts, child abuse, & parenting issues. I have worked with families, teens and children in the Department of Mental Health and in Child Protective Services as well as an Adult Psychiatric Unit. I cared for my mother 24/7 for the last four years of her life. I cared for a couple in their 90s for the last four years of their lives. At the end I worked with the hospice team. 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. Those who are religious I address that when appropriate. Those who are not religious I never bring that up. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Laura Rochelle
I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. 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!
Esteban Avila
I am licensed in California and have 13 years of professional experience. I have experience helping clients with LGBTQ+ issues, relationship issues, and coping with grief. I also have experience working with people who have overcome loss. I believe you are the expert on your own story and possess many strengths that will help you overcome challenges. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and happy life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Find a Therapist Near You in Irvine , 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.
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 California, 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:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
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 me 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:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in California (CA)
- 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 Irvine.
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 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.