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 Jade Yamada's avatar and link to their profile

Jade Yamada

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesSelf esteem
12 years of experience

Hi there, my name is Jade Yamada and I am a licensed clinical social worker( (LCSW) in the state of California. I am so glad you are stopping by because it means that you have made a decision to reach out and seek help. I understand that this is not easy to do, and I am here to support and help you through this process. I have been providing therapy as a psychotherapist over 10 years, and I have worked with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, social issues, and self image/ low self esteem. I also work with couples that are struggling with various issues, and also parents who are struggling with a divorce and their children. In therapy, I will walk with you together at your pace and help you find solutions. You deserve a happy and authentic life. I am looking forward to working with you.

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Kaniecia Mixon

Offering therapy in California
License: MS,LMFT
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Welcome to my profile. I am so glad you are here and chose courage over comfort in reaching out for help. My name is Kaniecia Mixon and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with about 10 years of experience providing behavioral support and therapy. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, social relationship issues, parenting problems, life changes, anger issues, and ADHD. I also have helped many people who have experienced trauma including physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. I have my B.A. in Psychology and my M.S. in Counseling/Marriage and Family Therapy. Most of my experience has been with individuals and families in crisis stabilization, creating safety plans, identifying and developing healthy coping skills, increasing natural supports, and increasing knowledge and awareness of their struggles. I have provided therapy and behavioral support to individuals 5-19. I have been a Therapeutic Behavioral Services Clinician who provided case management and assisted parents with learning parenting strategies to better manage their child's behaviors. I am currently a Program Supervisor to clinical staff who provide those same therapeutic services to people ages 0-21. My counseling style is warm, authentic, and collaborative. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, generosity, and meeting them where they are without stigmatizing labels. I believe that everyone knows what is needed for themselves and I aim to walk alongside you in identifying those needs and goals and supporting and holding you accountable to meeting the goals you set. I have a trauma-informed, strengths-based, and eclectic approach which combines person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, psychodynamic, motivational interviewing, mindfulness practices, and and any other approaches that are needed. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I enjoy incorporating art, creativity, and play into therapy! It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to journeying with you!

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Janine Thomas

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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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Melinda Miller

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT,MA
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I have a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a master's degree in Clinical Psychology. I have been working as a therapist since 2013. I have experience working with different ages, ethnicities, SOGIE and socio economics. In my time as a therapist I've worked with a wide range of.concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, and communication issues. My main focus is to create a space to feel heard and supported. I start with a Client Centered approach to develop the connection and help you feel safe.

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Karen Buroff

Offering therapy in California
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
15 years of experience

I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Connecticut over 15 years of experience working as a Social Worker and Clinician. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic and persistent mental illness, self esteem issues, relationship issues and life changes. I have worked extensively with military members (Active Duty and Veterans) and have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse (both combat and non-combat related). My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is always trauma informed, and I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma informed approach (ARC Trained), and Mind Body Resiliency (MBRT) Master Trainer. I am committed to being Client focused and strengths based. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Jill Katell

Offering therapy in California
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Dorina Stern

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that knowing yourself is most important factor in healing and in helping you create the life that you want. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life is a risk worth taking to make the changes for a better life. I am here to support you in that process and make sure that you have a safe and positive healing experience.

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Christine Paulsen

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & intimacy related issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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Jennifer Getchell

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Minnesota with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Ani Asulyan

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience, including extensive work as a Substance Abuse Counselor. I have helped clients navigate a wide range of challenges, including stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, addiction, depression, and self-esteem issues. My background in addiction counseling has equipped me with a deep understanding of the complexities of substance use and the recovery process. I specialize in supporting individuals in overcoming substance abuse, using evidence-based techniques, motivational interviewing, and personalized care strategies. In addition to my work with addiction, I also have experience in helping clients build coping mechanisms, improve motivation, and foster greater self-confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Each person's journey is unique, and I am committed to tailoring our therapy sessions and treatment plan to meet your specific needs and goals. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, and I am proud of you for getting started. Together, we can work toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

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.
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