Finding a therapist in California can be challenging. Even in some of the biggest California cities, barriers to treatment, like concerns about cost or a lack of available providers, can make finding in-person therapy 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 and meet your highest potential. From young adults needing help managing the effects of ADHD to seniors struggling to heal from events of the past, therapists can help adults of any age navigate the challenges in their lives and learn how 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 and learn more about the benefits of online treatment.

This is Starr Lee's avatar and link to their profile

Starr Lee

Offering therapy in California
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
9 years of experience

Hello, my name is Starr Lee, a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California. I have nine years of experience as a clinical therapist, working with individuals and families from diverse communities. I worked with a wide range of clients struggling with PTSD, trauma, grief and loss, stress, anxiety, depression and relationship issues. I provide person-centered therapy with the focus of self-awareness and self-acceptance to encourage growth. My therapeutic stance is to encourage self-exploration of thoughts and feelings, looking at every aspect of a person’s life to identify strengths and build resiliency. Therapy is focus on you and exploring the use of your skills and abilities to develop small changes that will lead to bigger changes. I have training in a range of modalities including art therapy, parenting skills, grief counseling, solution-focused, strength-based model, family therapy, existential therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I take a holistic approach to therapy, addressing an individual as a whole person. My goal is to build a meaningful relationship with you through unconditional positive regard, empathy, and genuineness on your path to regain health, wholeness and wellness. I am looking forward to getting to know you on your journey of self-discovery and healing.

This is Dr. Brenda Bridges's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Brenda Bridges

Offering therapy in California
License: EdDCP,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

Dr. Brenda Bridges has spent her life using her own personal and career experiences to help individuals overcome challenges and stressors. Dr. Bridges has vast experience in PTSD, Military Culture, and treating Mental Illnesses. Dr. Bridges is able to genuinely provide support and hope, especially when their life seem to be more than they can handle. As the Marines veteran, she knows how post-traumatic stress can affect every facet of one’s life as well as the lives of their loved ones. While her focus is on veteran care, she also provides services for children, teenagers, adults , couples and families who are dealing with traumatic situations of their own. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Dr. Bridges has experience in many modalities and is trained in EMDR. Dr. Bridges knows there is no single approach that works for everyone, so she continues to educate herself on emerging therapies and psychological trends to provide the most comprehensive program that works for each of her client’s individual needs. Dr. Bridges received her education at Argosy University, earning her Doctorates in Counseling Psychology. Dr. Bridges earned her Masters with Brandman University Clinical Psychology with emphasis in Marriage & Family Therapy. She also holds a Bachelor’s in Social Psychology from Park University.

This is Adam Whyte's avatar and link to their profile

Adam Whyte

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

My name is Adam Whyte, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in the State of California. I currently hold a position as a Senior Clinical Social Worker at the VA (Veterans Affairs) working with Veterans. Since obtaining my MSW in 2001, I have continued to deepen my clinical skills as a counselor focusing on treating trauma, addition, depression, anxiety, confidence issues, wellness and health. I am experienced in providing support to people of a variety of ages, genders, cultures and sexual orientations. The techniques I have utilized to help individuals with their self-growth have included mindfulness, journal writing, recognizing supports, and developing inner strengths. I am well versed in many different therapeutic tools. In particular; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Relapse Prevention and Strengths Based Therapy. I feel I can be an effective counselor to individuals who are striving to improve themselves and gain more self-fulfillment in life.

This is David Pecoraro's avatar and link to their profile

David Pecoraro

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issues
37 years of experience

With over 35 years of professional experience as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I have assisted and helped, both individuals and couples struggling with issues related to poor couples communication, relationship conflict, addictions, mood disorders, as well as past trauma and emotional abuse. I have an extensive background in helping others change their approach to problem solving especially related to Couples Conflict utilizing thoughtful conflict resolution skills,and understanding how relationships function and are sustained. My clinical approach is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, the Gottman Method and a Psychodynamic Therapy approach. All treatment plans are developed with clients to reach their specific needs and goals. Specialties * Relationship Issues *Family Conflict *Stress and Anxiety *Addictions *Trauma and Abuse also experienced in: Divorce & Separation, Family of Origin Issues, Mood Disorders, Fatherhood Issues, and Domestic Violence/Anger Management.

This is Erean Larry-Fiakpuyi's avatar and link to their profile

Erean Larry-Fiakpuyi

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and 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.

This is Lisha Singleton's avatar and link to their profile

Lisha Singleton

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteem
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with 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. 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 Sydney Tu's avatar and link to their profile

Sydney Tu

Offering therapy in California
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & 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.

This is Megan Kirby's avatar and link to their profile

Megan Kirby

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have a broad spectrum of experience working with a variety of different mental health needs and diagnoses including; stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence and depression. I work under the belief that all individuals require different levels of support and interventions and it is my job to do my best to fit those needs. I work to ensure that clients feel as though their experiences, goals, and therapeutic needs are valued and addressed. I believe therapy can be beneficial to anyone who wants change, clarity, or understanding and am excited to help you on that journey.

This is Megan Piazzisi-Moyes's avatar and link to their profile

Megan Piazzisi-Moyes

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionADHD
5 years of experience

Hello! I am so glad you are here at BetterHelp for your therapeutic journey. I am a licensed clinical social worker in California with over 9 years of professional work experience in behavioral health. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, depression, & concentration, and memory. I also have experience working with focus (ADHD) and behavior management. In addition to helping individuals, I have worked with parents and caregivers with behavior management and parenting support for children ages 3-18. 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. I approach therapy from an eclectic approach in which I use multiple modalities to fit your expressed needs best. My therapy style has been described as empathetic, direct, and insightful. "Sometimes it takes sadness to know happiness, noise to appreciate silence and absence to value presence." -Unk There will always be challenges in life and I am looking forward to helping you along this journey.

This is Shammeer Dawson's avatar and link to their profile

Shammeer Dawson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, grief, loss & depression. I also have experience with supporting clients with chronic conditions and disabilities. I work with my clients to create a safe space 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!

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 a BetterHelp therapist does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor?

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, such as:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression or depressive conditions
  • Adjustment issues
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma
  • Relationship conflicts and concerns

Finding a therapist 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 site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the 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 a therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. 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.

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.

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 insurance cover the cost of therapy?

Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.

Is online therapy 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.
Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist