Finding a therapist in California can be challenging. Even in some of the biggest California cities, concerns about cost or a lack of available providers can make finding an in-person therapist 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. From young adults needing help managing ADHD to seniors struggling to heal from past events, therapists can help adults of any age navigate the challenges in their lives and learn 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.

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This is Dr. John Mansdorfer's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. John Mansdorfer

Offering therapy in California
License: CA Psychologist PSY13625
Stress, AnxietyGriefBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
28 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, bipolar disorder, & depression. 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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Dr. Nelly Gregorian-DeLeon

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 97450, NC LMFT 2548
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
15 years of experience

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California. License number 97450. I am also licensed in North Carolina, license number 2548. I also hold a Marriage and Family Therapist's license in Connecticut, license number 003114. I think there are times when we all experience some difficulties and challenges in our lives that may require some additional support. Maybe because it is a period which life presents some emotional difficulty, or there is an experience of depression, anxiety, traumatic events, relationship issues, or a loss of some kind. It may also be the right time to work on one’s own personal growth. I would consider it a privilege and an honor to walk through this journey with you. I am very empathic, non-judgmental, warm, and ready to take your call whenever you are ready. I am a multilingual individual who has had the opportunity to live in different countries and work with many diverse populations. I also believe in honoring the uniqueness of each individual and his/her own story. I feel passionate about people and their own distinct narratives. I utilize a variety of theoretical approaches drawing from different theorists for the specific challenges faced by the individual/s. I have a great deal of experience working with victims, survivors, and offenders of domestic violence, victims, survivors, and offenders of sexual abuse (I have been CASOMB certified), survivors of childhood abuse, and problematic relationships with high conflicts. I offer psychotherapy for many other emotional difficulties as well as grief and loss. SPECIALITIES INCLUDE: Anxiety/Depression Self Esteem Stress Trauma and PTSD Relationship Issues Childhood Trauma Communication Skills Coping Skills Conflict Resolution Skills Parenting Challenges Divorce Life Transitions Family Conflicts Anger Management Life Coaching Grief and Bereavement MODALITIES INCLUDE: Culturally Sensitive Developmental Eclectic Existential Family / Marital Humanistic Integrative Interpersonal Jungian Narrative Person-Centered Psychodynamic Relational Strength-Based Trauma Focused Gestalt Techniques

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Shirin Roberts

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 29230
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 26 years of professional work experience. I find working with people very enjoyable and rewarding. I work in a client centered way, getting to know each individual. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Anne Holding

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 123367
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a warm and caring but direct Therapist who believes in human potential. I am licensed in California and previously worked for County Behavioral Health with children, teens and adults. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Applied Behavior Analysis. My current areas of focus are in helping clients with past trauma and abuse; including ways they can improve their self-esteem, anxiety, and self-efficacy. I also enjoy helping couples improve their communication skills. I believe there is a strong body/mind connection and 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, balanced and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Ashby "Brooks" Larsen

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 12724, UT LCSW 11035932-3501
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
58 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Utah with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Sandra West

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 41583
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
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, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

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Eugene Yamamoto

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 65018
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
30 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker LCSW therapist in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Sara Ramirez

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 107829
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Natarajan Gowda's avatar and link to their profile

Natarajan Gowda

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 24853
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, & depression. I also have experience working with 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. 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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Ryan Jordan

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 17537
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
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, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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.

This is Sergio Soto-Alvarez's avatar and link to their profile

Sergio Soto-Alvarez

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 143464
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. 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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Dr. Heather zeng

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 15268, WY LPC LPC-675
Career difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Wyoming with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping diverse clients with life difficulties and stress, coping with life changes, & meaning-making. 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. I share practical approaches that can be put in place in you life to live more fully.

This is Beverly Crippen's avatar and link to their profile

Beverly Crippen

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 23005, UT LCSW 209827-3501
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience in the field. My experience includes working in adoption/foster care , addiction recovery, mental health hospitals-out patient programs, faith based family services clinics, and private practice, I am licensed in both California and Utah. I work with clients who have a wide range of experiences, concerns and symptoms, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, and education and career challenges. I also work with individuals who have past history of trauma and emotional abuse, I endorse a Client Centered Therapy approach, I believe you have the answers with in you to heal. You have the ability to identify and resolve the issues you are faced with, when given the appropriate environment, respect and encouragement, The interventions used in session are drawn from cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness/meditation, inner child work, stress management techniques, and positive psychology. You are unique so what we do therapeutically will depend on your desires and needs. It takes courage to address life's challenges, to seek for truth and face our fears, but the end result is a happier more fulfilled life. If that is what you're ready to do, I would love to support you through that journey. I look forward to working with you

This is Katherine "Katie" Sandven Moss's avatar and link to their profile

Katherine "Katie" Sandven Moss

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 130753
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with confidence. 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!

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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