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.

Andrew Pari
Girls and women in today's world are given conflicting messages. Your parents told you one thing. Your friends another. The media confused you even more. And now you want something more fulfilling. More fun. More authentic. More…you! You’re afraid of being labeled. The people you date are the ones you are “supposed to,” not who you want. Maybe sex has been painful or unfulfilling and you want to understand why. Your sexual self is yours alone. But how do you sort your truth from everyone else’s? You want something different, but you are not sure how to talk about it. This is YOUR body! You get to decide how you want to Awaken. It’s time to break the Disney stereotype you were taught. Time to find out who you’re supposed to be. Time to learn all the sexual secrets that have been kept from you. You are ready to gain Awareness! You need a safe, supportive space to explore and talk about what you want and who you want to become without fear of being judged or shamed. You can finally live YOUR life! Whatever sex has been (or hasn’t), you can create the sex life you have been dreaming of! It’s time to change. To empower yourself. All you need is knowledge and guidance from someone who knows how to help you meet your sexual self. I am a nationally known therapist, speaker, and advocate for female sexual trauma, healing, and empowerment. I have pioneered open discussion of aspects of sexual trauma that were rarely addressed before. Women are often shamed for having experiences and reactions during unwanted sexual contact that they can't explain or don't understand. These experiences can sometimes end up being expressed in ways that continue that feeling of shame and self-harm, even though they may also feel good. I have spoken around the world at feminist, psychology, sex therapy, and forensic conferences about my work to further support for women whose experiences go unacknowledged. I have developed treatment strategies to address self-harm through sex and the urges and compulsions some women have to take sexual risks that end with more feelings of doubt and confusion. I work with women who are searching for their authentic self, free of societal stereotypes of what women are “meant for” and “supposed to be.” Whether it’s recovering from sexual trauma, exploring new desires, letting go of past relationships, discovering your own body, or diving deeper into understanding what you want, I can help. I know. I understand. And I care. Contact me now and simply say, “I’m ready.” I’m waiting to help you find your happy, worthy, and empowered life.

Kaitlyn McNulty
Hello and Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I started my work as a therapist in New York after obtaining my Masters Degree in Social Work from New York University. I have been working as a therapist in California for the last ten years. I have experience working with a wide variety of individuals in different settings including within community agencies, in homes, and in schools. One of my primary goals is to work with you to improve your overall quality of life. Over my career I have dedicated myself to ongoing study and have obtained training and certifications in several evidenced based treatment interventions. Some of these include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Parent Child Interaction Therapy, Trauma Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Seeking Safety. I continue to attend training to further gain knowledge and provide the best treatment for my clients. My approach to therapy is to create a partnership with you to work towards an agreed upon goal. I hope to be able to create a situation together where you will feel comfortable and confident to meet your goals. I often check my messages daily and will respond as soon as I can to all outreach. Additionally, if you do not see a time available that works for you, please feel free to contact me I am flexible to see if we can find a better time for you!

Dr. Lavarez Harris
Hi! My name is Dr. Lavarez Harris (Hint: My first name rhymes with my last name). I have been providing therapy and other behavioral health services for the past 26 years. I hold a Master's Degree in Counseling and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both States of Arizona and California. I also hold Certifications in Mediation and as a Solution Focus Life Coach. Academics aside, my life experience has also contributed to my empathy and passion for helping others for as long as I can remember. I bring a rich and diverse background to my work as my family is multicultural. I see my clients as the experts in their journey to resolve life challenges. As a therapist, I work with clients to identify their unique needs and the obstacles that may be causing clients to experience anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, unsuccessful relationships or career goals, and a myriad of other difficult issues. My primary clinical approaches are Cognitive Behavioral, Family Systems and Solution Focus. My clinical goal is always the safety and well-being of my clients first. In therapy, I assist clients to reach their goals by increasing self-awareness, confidence, exploring and managing how they think and behave are interconnected. I work to increase the client's ability to make more informed positive choices and/or changes for the client's maximum growth and benefit. I also work with clients to develop a strategic treatment plan with detailed activities that focus on accomplishing goals at the client's pace. When appropriate, I use films, articles, music, and humor to keep the client’s therapeutic journey to healing and growth, creative and interesting.

Gregory Harbaugh
Hello and welcome! I know from experience that sometimes it takes a great deal of courage to take the step to contact a therapist. So, thank you for reading! I am a graduate of the University of Southern California (also the University of Michigan) with over fifteen years’ experience as a psychotherapist treating individuals, couples/partners, children/adolescents, families and groups. My clinical training was at Saban Community Clinic, treating a diverse array of patients with wide ranging conditions. I enjoyed the team approach at Saban, which included medical and psychiatric practitioners. I have been licensed and in private practice in Los Angeles, CA since 2017. I offer an individualized approach to therapy, beginning by meeting the client where he/she is in the moment according to the client's needs. The goal is for you to be able to express yourself, be comfortable and ultimately realize your human potential and be happy in your own skin. There are many ‘schools’ of therapy. Some useful approaches I have found have been: Person-Centered Therapy: a non-directive, collaborative approach, often called ‘guided discovery’ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): the relationship between emotions, thoughts and behaviors Solution Focused Brief Therapy: focusing on client strengths, skills and goals Mindfulness Training: being fully present in the moment without judgment Psychodynamic/Self-Psychology: self-identity; developing a healthy understanding of who you are These are brief descriptions. If there is something of interest you know about please let me know and we can discuss. My profession requires 36 hours of continuing education for license renewal every two years. Some common areas of treatment include: • Depression and Anxiety (which often occur together) • Obsessions, Compulsions, Phobias (which tend to have an anxiety basis) • Personality Disorders • Mood Disorders • Trauma and Abuse Survivors; Support and Recovery • Communication/Intimacy; Relationships; Attachment • Living an Authentic Life; Self; Identity • Parenting Support • Grief Counseling • Work and Career issues, Stress Management • Addiction & Recovery (Assessment and Referral) • Eating Disorders (Assessment and Referral) • Cultural Diversity Issues • Sports and Creative Arts Performance Among my skills is complex differential diagnosis. Since many symptoms overlap more than one diagnostic category (and therefore guide treatment planning), a deeper understanding of the client is important. Treatment doesn’t necessarily have to take a long time. CBT and Mindfulness may provide benefits very quickly. If a condition is beyond my scope of practice I will provide guidance and appropriate referrals. In addition to being a psychotherapist, I have substantial interests in the creative arts and am a songwriter and musician myself. I am committed to meeting the client where he/she is in the moment and collaborating on goals to meet his/her needs, provide support and help the client address whatever challenges he/she might face. My approach is to provide warmth, empathy and understanding to help the individual build on his/her strengths and attain the personal growth he/she is committed to accomplishing. Best of luck in your life journey. I look forward to meeting you!

Toni McGivern
I am a licensed Therapist with over 8 years of experience in California. I've worked with clients with many concerns including anxiety, relationship issues, depression, parenting, etc I've also helped many with trauma and emotional abuse. My approach combines Attachment, Client-centered, Solution-Focused, CBT, and Humanistic. Above all, my priority is meeting you where you are at and your unique needs. I appreciate the courage it takes to reach out. I look forward to joining you on your journey!

Shannae Hart
I am an associate clinical social worker in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Krystal Bates
I know, for many people, it takes a great deal of courage to seek professional help and I would like to take a moment to honor and commend you for taking the first step in your journey of healing. Finding the right therapist to help facilitate and support your journey is of utmost importance in getting effective and lasting results. With this in mind, I have provided some information about me in order to help you decide if my experience and style is the right match for you. I have worked with individuals, children, and families from a wide range of backgrounds throughout my career. However, I specialize in treating women struggling with anxiety, life transitions, self-love, and healthy relationships. In addition, as a biracial woman of color, I especially enjoy helping people work through multicultural concerns. I deeply honor each person's individuality and unique life experiences. For this reason, my treatment method is tailored to fit the needs of each individual I work with. The feedback I have received from clients is that they find me to be warm, empathetic, laidback and light-hearted. My clients have also told me that they appreciate my honest, direct, yet compassionate communication style. When working with me, you can expect a respectful, open and non-judgmental setting. I believe each individual is the expert on their own life and I view our working relationship as a collaborative partnership. I am simply here to provide empowerment, insight and support in your healing process. Psychotherapy can be very beneficial, but only if you are committed to putting in the work. As the old saying goes, “You get out what you put in.” With that said, as your therapist, I vow to be your biggest cheerleader along the way. I am here for you, I believe in you, and I look forward to witnessing you achieve all of the therapeutic goals you set or yourself! Best wishes, Krystal

Dr. Daryl Lytle
Hello, I’m Dr. Lytle. I believe we are not defined by our challenges, but by our strength in learning to overcome them. Do you feel stuck or overwhelmed? I use a combination of psychotherapy, coping skills, and common sense to help you learn how to be more aware and mentally flexible, and more in control of your life. Many of my clients say with counseling they feel more connected to themselves, others, and spiritually grounded. I'm excited to help you reach your full potential and find the peace you deserve. See you soon.

Liana Beckett
I am a California-licensed solution-focused relationship therapist with over 30 years' professional experience. I am a values-based therapist, specializing in helping clients to do well and be well--not to just cope--with life changes, career difficulties, personal growth, as well as grief and loss both well- defined and ambiguous. I speak several therapeutic "languages," primarily ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), and IFS (Internal Family Systems). For those focused primarily on their work life I also offer management and professional coaching. It takes courage to seek out more fulfilling values-based relationships in the important areas of one's life to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Jennifer Pelo
Greetings! I am a licensed professional counselor and have been a professional School counselor for the past 20 years. I started a private practice 9 years ago. My philosophy of therapy is all about building a solid relationship with you. You will need to feel you can trust me first. I also believe that each person holds their own answers to life’s questions. You have the wisdom and strength inside of you to know what to do. I am here to support you and walk beside you on this part of the journey. Trying therapy for the first time takes courage. It can also be hard if you have tried therapy in the past and didn’t have a good experience. People are different, so not every therapist or type of therapy will fit the best for every person. You will know what is best for you and I will always respect your right to choose that. Please feel free to reach out and let me know if you are interested in working together!

Liza Saffo-Mott
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I've been practicing social work since 2013 and have been licensed since 2021. I have experience working with all age groups and my expertise is in helping clients manage anxiety, depression, negative thinking patterns, communication issues, grief/loss, major life changes and issues related to identity. I use an eclectic treatment approach meaning that I don't feel there is one modality that fits all. The therapeutic approaches I tend to use most often include CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused and ACT. After gathering an understanding of what brings you to therapy I am happy to provide you with more information on which modalities I feel may be the most helpful to you and why.

LaRaye Lyles
I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, compassion fatigue, & concentration, memory. I also have experience working with focus (adhd). 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
How can therapists in California support you?
Therapists in California 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 California, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for licensed professionals in California 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 does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.
Why are many residents in the state of California working 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 in California, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.
Mental health counselors in California support clients with varying issues, which can include:
- 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
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat featur
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Some commonly asked questions can be found 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.
How do I know if I should get a therapist?
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 in California can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.
Does insurance cover 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 safe?
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.
Popular cities in California
- Los Angeles, CA
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