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.

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Kimberly Nasrul

Offering therapy in California
License: Kimberly Nasrul, MS, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional experience in EMDR and Expressive Arts Somatic Psychologies. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

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Marsh Rose

Offering therapy in California
License: M.A., LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
35 years of experience

Greetings. I'm Marsh Rose, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California (LMFT #29870) with over 30 years of experience in private practice and clinical settings. I HAVE ONE OPENING IN MY SCHEDULE, AT 9 A.M. ON SATURDAYS. I offer voice sessions, live chat in real time, and messaging. I do not offer video at this time. My approach is cognitive-behavioral and client centered. We start where you are, identify your goals and work toward achieving them. I believe in a casual but focused therapeutic environment where there’s room for humor as well as serious introspection. My clinical specialties include stress and coping, compassion fatigue, anxiety, grief and loss, and issues regarding aging. Although I am not a veteran, it was my great good fortune to begin my clinical experience as a staff counselor with Viet Nam combat veterans at one of the first nonprofit agencies in the United States that help combat veterans and their families. I went on to get my master's degree in clinical psychology in 1989. While working toward my Marriage and Family license, I interned as a grief counselor for Hospice and provided general counseling at several clinics. I gained my MFT license in 1992 and have worked in private practice, served as case manager for the Treatment Alternatives to Street Crime program, and was Drug Court Coordinator for the Department of Health Services in my county. Once you sign the consent for services I will schedule our first appointment. I look forward to working with you.

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Margaretta Reyolds

Offering therapy in California
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
15 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist. I work with children, families, couples and adults for more than 25 years. I am friendly, warm and down-to- earth. I am skilled in delivering Christian Faith Base Counseling. I specialized in working with trauma, depression, anxiety, domestic violence, anger management, drug counseling and most mental health difficulties. I used evidence base interventions and employed current scientific findings to generate quick relief from symptoms. I provide support and understanding. I specialized in using CBT to help people change their thinking patterns in order for them to be successful. I can assist in helping to find solutions, answers, and some directions in life. I can provide a healing place to unlock your strength. Communicate feelings more effectively overcome struggles and become your own personal problem solver. Can provide a therapeutic relationship tailored to meet your needs.

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Regi Abraham

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with more than 30 years of experience working in various settings such as psychiatric hospitals, group homes, military sites, and in a group practice. My professional journey has taken me from the East Coast (New Jersey) to the West Coast (California), and the Midwest (Minnesota, Indiana). I received my MSW degree from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. My interests as a therapist are in working with individuals to address depression, anxiety and panic disorders, adjustment issues, stress including occupational, relationship stressors including family of origin, grief/loss, and codependency issues. In the last 7 years, I have experience working with military families. I also provide Christian counseling as and when requested. I offer nurturing, compassionate, and supportive counseling.

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Nancy Tracy

Offering therapy in California
LGBTRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 26 + years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients both adults and teens, with LGBTQ+ related issues, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also enjoy working with couples working on relationship issues and conflict resolution. 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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Kathleen Puleo

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

As a licensed clinical psychologist in California with 18 years of professional experience, I am dedicated to helping my clients navigate life's challenges with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My extensive work has equipped me with the skills to support individuals facing stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting challenges, and anger management. I believe that each person is unique, and I take great care in tailoring our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your specific needs. My approach is grounded in evidence-based treatment modalities, ensuring that you receive the most effective support. For clients presenting with stress and anxiety, I often help individual's identify and reframe negative thought patterns, as well as utilize Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) to cultivate a sense of calm and presence. When working on relationship issues, I help couples and individuals strengthen their emotional bonds and improve communication. For parenting challenges, I help client's foster healthy family dynamics and build stronger, more resilient relationships between parents and children. In addressing anger management, I integrate techniques to help clients develop healthier ways of expressing and managing their emotions. I believe in a collaborative process where we work together to achieve your goals and enhance your well-being. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can be an act of courage, and I am proud of you for beginning this journey. I am here to support you every step of the way, and I look forward to working together to create a path toward greater peace and fulfillment in your life.

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Leslie Watson

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

My name is Leslie, and I am a licensed in California with over 9 years professional experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, lack of motivation, self-esteem, and depression to name a few. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear or judgement. Taking the first step to signing up for therapy takes courage and I am extremely proud of you for getting started! Even if we never speak, I wish you the best in your journey of healing!

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Dr. Wendy Chan

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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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Stephanie Cristerna-Casillas

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

Hello! I'm Stephanie Cristerna-Casillas, a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to fostering a safe and non-judgmental space for clients. My goal is to assist individuals and families in building strong, meaningful, and intimate relationships. I specialize in helping those dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and family conflicts.I focus on fostering a collaborative and supportive therapeutic environment that is compassionate and empathetic, allowing clients to feel safe, understood, and empowered. While my primary treatment approaches are rooted in Client-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I prioritize meeting clients where they are and tailoring the therapeutic process to suit their individual needs.

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Edna Salcido

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.

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Roslyn Rice

Offering therapy in California
License: LPC,MEd
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Welcome to Better Help! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensed in Virginia with experience working as a therapist with community mental health and in private practice. I have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and am a Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist (Individual). The majority of my counseling experience has been working with clients who experience a wide range of concerns including mood disorders (depression, anxiety), relationship issues, life transitions, and parenting concerns. I also help many people who have experienced trauma or emotional abuse. I believe that with the proper supports and a growth mindset, we each can realize our potential and fulfill our purpose. Since each person’s experiences are unique, I utilize a person-centered, integrated approach which includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Dialectical Behavioral Therapy; Solution-Focused Brief Therapy; Mindfulness-Based and Strengths-Based approaches; and Motivational Interviewing. My focus is to help each individual heal, energize, and become aware of inner strengths by providing a neutral safe space, listening to concerns, and customizing a treatment plan to help individuals meet therapeutic goals. I promise to be accountable and accessible by creating a therapeutic environment that is welcoming to all identities. I look forward to working with you!

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Rochelle Fried

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

With over 40 years of experience in the field of psychotherapy, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse array of individuals, spanning all ages and dealing with a multitude of life issues. My passion lies in helping my clients develop the necessary tools and skills to effectively problem solve and navigate their day-to-day lives, fostering a sense of empowerment and resilience. Throughout my extensive career, I have garnered a deep understanding and expertise in treating a wide range of mental health conditions. My background includes successfully addressing anxiety, stress, depression, and more severe psychological disorders. In addition, I specialize in relationship issues, couples therapy, and family therapy, recognizing the intricate dynamics that influence our interpersonal relationships. My journey as a therapist has taken me through various enriching and challenging environments. I have had the honor of working in the Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit, providing crucial support to families during the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Additionally, I have experience in custody mediation within the family court system, helping families navigate emotionally charged situations with compassion and understanding. One of the most transformative phases of my career was my 14-year tenure at the Jonathan Jaques Children’s Cancer Center. Initially joining as a therapist, I later became the assistant director of the Psychosocial and Behavioral Science program. In this role, I worked directly with patients and their families, supervising an ad hoc team of psychosocial professionals who provided therapeutic and support services. This experience solidified my commitment to holistic care, addressing bio-psychosocial needs of individuals facing significant health challenges. During my time at the cancer center, I also established a part-time private practice. Here, I worked with adults, couples, and families dealing with a variety of life and mental health issues. In 1995, I transitioned to full-time private practice, where I have dedicated myself to helping clients achieve their therapeutic goals and improve their quality of life. I firmly believe that therapy should be a safe and nurturing space where individuals feel heard, validated, and supported. My approach is client-centered, focusing on creating a collaborative and empathetic environment that fosters personal growth and healing. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or navigating a significant life transition, I am here to guide you on your journey toward well-being. My commitment to my clients is unwavering, and I am dedicated to providing compassionate, effective, and personalized care. I invite you to take the first step toward a more fulfilling and balanced life by reaching out and exploring the possibilities of therapy with me.

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Alexis Clark

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

I am a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of California, bringing over five years of diverse experience to my role. I have a profound commitment to serving children, families, and individuals, leveraging my extensive background in non-profit agencies, community-based clinical work, and medical social work. I integrate a client-centered approach, emphasizing empathy, active listening, and tailored interventions. I believe in the transformative power of therapy, and I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to make positive changes in their lives. Seeking out therapy can often be a daunting and challenging step for many individuals, as it requires confronting personal struggles and vulnerabilities. I understand the courage it takes to embark on this journey, and it is my sincere hope to provide a safe, open, and trusting space where clients feel comfortable and supported. My approach emphasizes building a genuine connection with those I work with, honoring their autonomy and allowing them to guide the direction and pace of our sessions. Our time together can involve processing, identifying new coping skills, assigning homework (if that is your thing!), role-playing, and any other technique that will set you up for success. I look forward to connecting with you!

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Xenia Blanco

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
19 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, & abuse. 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.

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 $65 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 insurance cover the cost of in-person or online therapy with a therapist in California?

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.

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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