Finding a therapist in California can be challenging, even in major cities, when high costs, long wait times, or limited availability make in-person care difficult. Whether you live in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, or a smaller community, online therapy through BetterHelp offers statewide access to licensed mental health professionals without the need to commute. BetterHelp is one of the world’s largest online therapy platforms, with 30,000+ licensed therapists globally and more than 6 million people helped worldwide.

With BetterHelp, you can connect with a licensed California therapist from home at times that fit your schedule to work through concerns like anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, relationship challenges, and life transitions. The platform delivers proven results, with 72% of users experiencing a reduction in symptoms within 12 weeks, and a 4.9 out of 5 average session rating from over 1.7 million reviews. While insurance is not yet available in California, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model typically ranges from $70–$100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors like location, source, preferences, therapist availability and any applicable discounts or promotions that might apply. Learn more about future coverage on our insurance page.

Browse licensed therapists in California and find a match that works for your needs, schedule, and coverage.

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This is Mazda Lakpour's avatar and link to their profile

Mazda Lakpour

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 90471
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

Hello, My name is Mazda Lakpour. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. My goal is to help people have better relationships, get their feet on the ground and see life as is. My specialty areas are mood and anxiety, anger and stress management, co-occurring disorders, adjustment issues, personal growth and self-esteem. I am experienced with adults, teenagers, couples and families. I utilize an integrative approach of Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral and hypnotherapy interventions. I combine elements of psychology, hypnosis, meditation, and imagery with a pledge to always maintain the highest level of integrity, confidentiality, and wisdom. I do this work because I believe that the world becomes a better place when we assist each other towards our individual goals of greater happiness.

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Dr. Martha Groble

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC LPCC19237, FL LMHC MH2809
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
29 years of experience

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Dr. Frederick Smoot

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 12959
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (CA #12959) with over 15 years of experience counseling/ accompanying persons through difficult parts of their life-journeys. I have worked with a wide range of concerns including Isolation. loneliness, fearfulness, anxiety, intimacy/relationship issues, parenting and career challenges, addiction, physical and emotional abuse and life transitions. My counseling style is warm, curious and appropriately truth-telling.. I treat others with respect and consistent presence. I work to sustain and shame-free context that empowers persons to (re)claim their lies and future with dignity. I am an accompanist, using therapeutic tools gathered from several clinical approaches. I am relational, client centered, mindful, and strategic. I believe that direction and goals for therapy are shaped together with the client. We will tailor a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Your willingness to reach out for support shows your courage and desire for a better future. I encourage you to take this step, accompanied and supported I look forward to working with you.

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Jude Patton

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT LMFT140542, WA LMFT LF00001250
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSleeping disordersDepressionADHD
46 years of experience

I am an older out/open/proud transgender man. I have expertise and extensive experience in serving transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming clients. I prefer to serve my own community members, but do not discriminate against others. I am licensed as a therapist in California and Washington, as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), with 45 years of professional counseling experience. My professional background also includes having worked as a Psychiatric Physician Associate for 43 years, and as a sex educator and sex therapist. Before my career in human medicine and mental health, I worked for 20+ years as a Veterinary Medical Assistant and understand the value of animal companions and of the natural environment in supporting healthy living. I have experience in treating clients who have ADHD, an autism spectrum disorder, chronic pain/chronic illness, and/or end-of-life concerns, sleeping disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and depression. I believe that you are the expert on your own story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Making the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started. I am looking forward to working with you to find solutions to reach your goals in therapy.

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Janetta Berry- Sissoko

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 15805, NV LCPC CP5791-R
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 14 years of experience in the mental health and behavioral health field. I am licensed to practice in Oklahoma, Texas, Washington, California, and Nevada. Throughout my career, I have worked with individuals facing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance use, and court-ordered treatment. This diverse experience allows me to support clients with compassion, structure, and a clear understanding of complex challenges. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and respectful. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, valued, and supported. I believe meaningful change is possible for anyone who is willing to engage in the process, and my role is to guide and support you every step of the way. My primary approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Together, we will identify unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior, develop practical coping strategies, and work toward goals that are meaningful to you. Treatment is always individualized—I tailor each session and treatment plan to meet your unique needs and circumstances. Recognizing that something in your life needs to change takes courage, and reaching out for support is a powerful first step. I would be honored to partner with you on your journey toward growth, healing, and lasting change. I look forward to working with you.

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Samantha Kerdman

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 105929
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
10 years of experience

I'm here to support you throughout your therapeutic journey. My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, rediscover your strengths, and achieve your individual or relationship goals. I offer a safe and supportive therapeutic environment, where we collaboratively search for new solutions using empirically based therapeutic treatment.

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Stacy Brown

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC LPCC20476, TX LPC 69278
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsEating disordersAnger managementADHD
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, eating disorders, & 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. 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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Leslie Patt

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 17513
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed male therapist in California. I am not allowed to work with anyone not located in California during the therapy session. I have 30 plus years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients and couples with relationship issues, family conflicts, child abuse, & parenting issues. I have worked with families, teens and children in the Department of Mental Health and in Child Protective Services as well as an Adult Psychiatric Unit. I cared for my mother 24/7 for the last four years of her life. I cared for a couple in their 90s for the last four years of their lives. At the end I worked with the hospice team. 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. Those who are religious I address that when appropriate. Those who are not religious I never bring that up. 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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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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Fanshen Thompson

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 25004
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping individuals and couples with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence, but mostly I help people to clear the emotional muck that builds up over the years so that they can more clearly see who they authentically are and live from that place. I work with couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional intimacy with one another, while also clearing the muck that has built up in the relationship over the years. Let’s work together so you can see more clearly! Because everyone’s issues are unique, the pace, intensity, and details of clearing that muck are also unique. It starts with a collaborative and trusting relationship with your therapist. Feeling like you can be authentic and honestly share your thoughts and feelings is critical to making progress. But it’s not just sharing or talking. Therapy is also work. In addition to feeling, noticing, and recognizing what is under the muck, therapy is about taking small but meaningful steps toward the change you want. While, finally, showing yourself the compassion to heal. I look forward to supporting you in that healing.

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Teng Vang

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 156234
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Hyun Lee

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 146052
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesSelf esteem
11 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex personal challenges. My practice centers on helping clients explore self-love, life purpose, and interpersonal dynamics with compassion and cultural sensitivity. I have extensive experience addressing relationship issues, family conflicts, social anxiety, and attachment challenges. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique journey, particularly for young adults, multicultural communities, and individuals exploring identity and personal growth. I offer a warm, affirming therapeutic space that honors diverse experiences and supports clients through transitions, relationship dynamics, and personal development. Fluent in both English and Korean, I bring a nuanced, multicultural perspective to my practice. My therapeutic style emphasizes collaborative exploration, helping clients build self-esteem, navigate complex emotions, and develop meaningful strategies for personal transformation. 캘리포니아 공인 치료사로서, 저는 개인이 복잡한 삶의 도전을 헤쳐 나가도록 돕는 데 전문성을 가지고 있습니다. 제 치료는 자기 사랑, 삶의 목적, 그리고 관계 역동성을 공감과 문화적 민감성을 가지고 탐색하도록 지원하는 데 초점을 둡니다. 관계 문제, 가족 갈등, 사회불안, 애착 문제 등 다양한 영역에서 풍부한 임상 경험을 가지고 있습니다. 저의 치료적 접근 방식은 각 개인의 독특한 여정을 깊이 이해하는 데 뿌리를 두고 있습니다. 특히 청년층, 다문화 커뮤니티, 그리고 정체성과 개인적 성장을 탐색하는 내담자들을 주로 돕고 있습니다. 저는 따뜻하고 지지적인 치료 공간을 제공하여 다양한 삶의 경험을 존중하고, 관계의 변화나 인생의 전환기, 개인의 성장 과정을 함께 동행합니다. 영어와 한국어에 모두 능통한 저는 다문화적 시각을 섬세하게 통합하여 치료에 반영합니다. 제 치료 스타일은 협력적 탐색을 중심으로 하며, 내담자가 자기 존중감을 회복하고 복잡한 감정을 다루며, 개인적 변화를 위한 의미 있는 전략을 세워가 되도록 돕습니다.

This is Ryan Collier's avatar and link to their profile

Ryan Collier

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 13924
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
5 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring over 5 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients navigating life's challenging transitions, with specialized expertise in depression, anxiety, and personal growth. In addition, I understand how therapy can be hard, so I pride myself on make therapy fun and enjoyable. I offer a compassionate, affirming approach for young adults, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals seeking meaningful therapeutic support. My work focuses on helping clients explore self-love, life purpose, and healing from challenging experiences like divorce, body image struggles, and seasonal emotional shifts. My therapeutic approach is deeply collaborative and tailored to each individual's unique journey. I'm committed to creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their authentic selves, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're dealing with stress, grief, life changes, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm here to support your path forward.

This is Aruna Prabha Boyineni's avatar and link to their profile

Aruna Prabha Boyineni

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 158979
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf 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, anxiety, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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. I , being a first generation South Asian specialize in working with South Asian community. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Find Therapy Near You in California

Finding a licensed therapist near you in California can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

With a population of 32,349,851, California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in California, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in California (CA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across San Joaquin, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Modoc, Riverside, Madera, Alameda, Contra Costa, Mendocino, Humboldt, Orange, Sierra, Solano, Tulare, Plumas, Marin, San Diego, Alpine, Placer, Nevada, Calaveras, Santa Clara, Amador, Napa, Santa Cruz, Shasta, Sacramento, Colusa, Kings, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Glenn, Kern, Mono, San Mateo, Merced, Fresno, El Dorado, Santa Barbara, Butte, Tehama, Lassen, Trinity, Tuolumne, Inyo, Monterey, Sonoma, Imperial, Mariposa, Yuba, Stanislaus, Siskiyou, Ventura, Yolo, Lake, Del Norte, Sutter, San Francisco, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across California with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

When searching for a therapist near me in California, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across California, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across California.

Finding a therapist near you that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in California want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in California without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in California (CA)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in California

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across California, including residents in San Joaquin, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Modoc, Riverside, Madera, Alameda, Contra Costa, Mendocino, Humboldt, Orange, Sierra, Solano, Tulare, Plumas, Marin, San Diego, Alpine, Placer, Nevada, Calaveras, Santa Clara, Amador, Napa, Santa Cruz, Shasta, Sacramento, Colusa, Kings, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Glenn, Kern, Mono, San Mateo, Merced, Fresno, El Dorado, Santa Barbara, Butte, Tehama, Lassen, Trinity, Tuolumne, Inyo, Monterey, Sonoma, Imperial, Mariposa, Yuba, Stanislaus, Siskiyou, Ventura, Yolo, Lake, Del Norte, Sutter, San Francisco.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in California do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times for online therapy may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

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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