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.

Read more
This is Dr. Glenda Baez's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Glenda Baez

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 49849
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesDepression
19 years of experience

My name is Glenda Baez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in San Diego, California. I have a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology and have a doctoral degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am bilingual as Spanish is my second language and frequently conduct therapy in this language. I currently own a online teletherapy private practice and work with primarily individuals and couples. I have 19 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked as an outpatient therapist in clinics, non-profit settings, doing therapy in a preschool setting, I have also done extensive utilization management and quality management work. I have extensive experience working with very young children, school age children and adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I believe in being empathetic, warm, supportive, as well as empowering my clients in finding solutions. I approach issues from a solution-focused approach and also use cognitive-behavioral techniques to help address issues and improve self-esteem, self-awareness, improve mood, and work towards moving forward with life.

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.

This is Dr. Paula Alvarez's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Paula Alvarez

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 19790, IL LCSW 149.023704
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
35 years of experience

Greetings! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the states of California, Illinois, and Missouri, and I have a doctorate in Organizational Psychology. I have worked in locked and outpatient mental health facilities for the last 30 years. I facilitated group treatment of domestic violence perpetrators in Spanish and English for eight years. I specialize in treating trauma-related symptoms, anxiety and depression, anger management, geriatric well-being, mental health recovery, cultural diversity issues, and self-esteem issues. My doctorate degree (EdD) In Leadership and Learning with a specialization in Organizational Psychology was conferred on May 27, 2021. I use a client-centered approach (Carl Rogers), and I know that the client is the expert. I tailor my therapy sessions to what the client wants. I used cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with those who like CBT interventions. I offer homework assignments and bibliotherapy for those clients who want those interventions. I also use Brief-Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. I invite you to contact me to see if I am a good fit to help and empower you on your journey to better living.

This is Jami Winkel's avatar and link to their profile

Jami Winkel

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 44036
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

Hello! I am a deeply compassionate and pragmatic therapist. My collaborative approach balances processing emotions and building new coping strategies that help you make changes in your life. With 20+ years of experience, I understand awareness is not enough to make the changes we long for. We often know the ways we want to change but can’t figure out how to make those happen. I help you take that awareness into action via pragmatic and healthy strategies and solutions. I am passionate about helping folks understand themselves better and connect the mind and body. I am trained in relational therapy, sensorimotor therapy and steeped in social justice values. Additionally, understanding the neurobiology of habits and "what wires together, fires together" supports my clients to make changes in their lives. I look forward to working with you!

This is Lourdes Mayes's avatar and link to their profile

Lourdes Mayes

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 76284
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefAnger managementDepression
21 years of experience

Hi, I am a bilingual English/ Spanish licensed clinical social worker in California with over 21 years of experience in the mental health field. I have the honor of working with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, PTSD, anger and stress management, parenting issues, and couple relationship challenges. I strive to create a safe, non-judgemental and comfortable environment so we can work together to gain insight into the various contributions to your feelings and problems. We will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your problems, improve communication skills, build empathy & respect, learn effective problem-solving & conflict resolution skills, and strengthen connection, including intimacy. Very soon you will discover yourself and about the changes you can make to propel yourself forward. As long as you are open to sharing as well as accepting what is shared with you, this process of exploring can be highly rewarding, and it will also set up for success down the road. I’m looking forward to working with you!

This is Chelsa Watkins-Jordan's avatar and link to their profile

Chelsa Watkins-Jordan

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 130088, GA LCSW CSW007698
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over thirteen years of experience and a proud graduate of Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia which is where I am originally from. I have worked with clients with a wide range of challenges experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting challenges, trauma, and everyday life stressors. If you made it to my page, you are courageous and I’m excited to start this journey with you! Most people seeking counseling may naturally experience anxiety and shame around discussing personal and private issues that affect their daily lives, which is why it is always my goal to create a safe judgment-free environment promoting a healthy therapeutic relationship between myself and my clients. Communication is my gift! I believe in having "real conversations" in the most compassionate and empathic way possible, thus creating trust, awareness, healing, and change. I also enjoy challenging my clients and holding them accountable for making changes necessary to achieve their desired goals. My approach includes cognitive-behavioral, psychoeducation, mindfulness and solution-focused therapy, and brief crisis intervention. I do not believe in a cookie-cutter plan as it relates to therapy, I assist my clients with co-developing practical steps and ways of identifying pragmatic solutions to combat future challenges tailored to their personal needs. If you feel that you need immediate help, please reach out to the Georgia Crisis and Access Line at 1-800-715-4225 or National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

This is Rebecca Marrs's avatar and link to their profile

Rebecca Marrs

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 125873
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I have over ten years of experience in the mental health field as a therapist working with individuals ranging from infancy, childhood, adolescents, adulthood, middle adulthood and old age. Also, have worked in various settings such as in the home, school, out in the community, agency setting and in my office. Their backgrounds have ranged from foster care, adoption, history of trauma, domestic violence, difficulty with peers/co-workers, auto-immune disease, LGBTQIA+, separation, divorce, reunification and court ordered therapy. Some diagnosed with MDD, GAD, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, Adjustment Disorder, School Phobia and ODD. I will complete an intake, which will include a mental status exam. This process will come naturally during the session as I will inquire about the reason why you have decided to start therapy and collaborate to determine what your therapeutic, personal and professional goals are. My office is a safe place where you can share your thoughts and feelings, feel heard, understood, validated and supported. You have a say each step of the way.

This is Laura  Case's avatar and link to their profile

Laura Case

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 50491
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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 Blanca Nicassio's avatar and link to their profile

Blanca Nicassio

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 145667
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. 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.

This is Joseph De Vico's avatar and link to their profile

Joseph De Vico

Offering therapy in California
License: MO LMFT 2025051389, CA LMFT 49494
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

Hello, my name is Joseph De Vico. Let’s talk. We’ll work together until that unsolvable problem is history, until that overwhelming pain is bearable, until the dream future that seems a million miles away is right in front of you. You’ve always been strong, resourceful, and intuitive. I’m just going to help clear away the junk you’re trapped beneath so you can actually feel that way: false beliefs that make life seem harder than it really is; stories about yourself that are so outdated, they have nothing to do with who you are now; distractions that keep you from deciding what is most meaningful to you; power imbalances that take away good things that are rightfully yours. This stuff has to go. What will you feel when you feel better? Peaceful? Hopeful? Whole? Decisive? Free? Seen, validated, grounded, elevated, invigorated, triumphant? Just plain better? When do we start?

This is Janice Snyder's avatar and link to their profile

Janice Snyder

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 8880
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have a Ph.D. from USC. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, 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.

This is Rachel Howard's avatar and link to their profile

Rachel Howard

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 89381
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, 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!

This is Robyn Peace's avatar and link to their profile

Robyn Peace

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 73672
Trauma and abuseParenting issues
11 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring over a decade of dedicated experience supporting individuals healing from complex trauma and navigating challenging parenting dynamics. My professional approach centers on creating a compassionate, empowering environment where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. I specialize in working with survivors of abuse, offering trauma-informed care that honors each person's unique journey. My therapeutic style emphasizes strength-based interventions, helping clients rediscover their resilience and rebuild a sense of safety and self-worth. Through collaborative and individualized treatment, I support clients in understanding their experiences, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and cultivating emotional well-being. My commitment is to walk alongside you with genuine empathy, respect, and professional expertise as you move toward healing and personal transformation.

This is Kristyn Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Kristyn Smith

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 132747
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health professional in the state of California with over five years of clinical experience. My work is grounded in evidence-based practice and a deep commitment to providing compassionate, individualized care. I have extensive experience supporting clients facing a wide range of challenges, including stress, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, anger management, relationship issues, family conflict, low motivation, self-esteem concerns, and confidence-related difficulties. In addition to working with common mental health concerns, I have significant experience in treating complex and treatment-resistant mental illness. I strongly support the principles of precision psychiatry, and I utilize an interdisciplinary and integrative approach to ensure that treatment is as personalized, effective, and comprehensive as possible. This includes collaboration with professionals across psychiatry, psychology, and allied health disciplines to address the full biopsychosocial spectrum of mental health. My prognostic belief system is one of hope and empowerment. I believe that even in the face of severe or long-standing mental health challenges, meaningful healing and transformation are possible. My work is guided by the conviction that individuals can reconnect with their strengths, find purpose, and move toward lasting change when provided with the right tools and support. I believe that every person deserves to be treated with respect, sensitivity, and dignity. My therapeutic process is grounded in mutual trust, and I tailor each treatment plan to meet the unique and specific needs of the individual. In pursuit of clinical excellence, I remain actively engaged in ongoing research focused on complex and severe mental illness, with the goal of advancing our understanding and improving outcomes for individuals with the greatest needs. Taking the first step to begin therapy takes courage. I commend you for making that choice, and I am here to support you every step of the way.

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 $70 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 BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp has joined with major insurance carriers in select states to provide in-network therapy coverage. Coverage may vary by plan, provider, and therapist availability. Insured members pay an average co-pay of $19 per session. Average co-pay is based on current insured BetterHelp members. Explore insurance coverage in major cities like ArlingtonCorpus ChristiPlanoLubbockJacksonvilleMiamiTampaOrlandoSt. PetersburgPort St. LucieHialeahCape CoralTallahasse and Fort Lauderdale.

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.
Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist