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. Priscilla Sobremonte's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Priscilla Sobremonte

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 22308
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
24 years of experience

I served in the United States Air Force for 11 years. Graduated with MSW became a LCSW began working with severely emotionally disturbed children. Continued to work with a county mental health department with an agreement with juvenile justice. In this capacity worked with children, adolescence, families, and adolescents who were placed in juvenile hall. Worked in the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation as a Psychiatric Clinical Social Worker for many years with both male and female inmates, inpatient, outpatient and special units for chronic severe mental illness. Worked at Kaiser Permanente as a therapist with children and families, and crisis intake. Work experience with Veterans Health Care as a medical social worker supervisor and program coordinator. Began private practice in 2006 utilizing a client centered approach to determine treatment plan with the client (Cognitive Behavioral, Trauma Focused, Solution Focused, Relationship and family issues). Treatment approach is based on client's needs and preferences in a collaborate manner. *****PLEASE NOTE I am note able to write letters to employers for time off and or disability verification.****** AUTHOR Therapeutic Journaling: Making Sense of My Life, put together for clients who have struggled to make sense of life experiences this is based on Narrative Journaling.

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Angela Oliver-Comer

Offering therapy in California
License: TX LMFT 202009, CA LMFT 36650
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
20 years of experience

Hi. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience providing therapy services to individuals and families experiencing depression or anxiety, family stressors, grief and loss or relationship issues. I strive to provide a safe, supportive and compassionate therapeutic environment. Exploring counseling and choosing the right therapist is not always an easy task. At times, we all struggle and the stressors of life can be overwhelming. It is my endeavor to help you successfully navigate the challenges you are facing and provide the skills and techniques to help you reach your goals. Congratulations on making the first step towards personal growth and improving your Mental Health. I look forward to working with you.

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Renee Lafriniere

Offering therapy in California
License: FL LMHC MH12255, CA LPCC 18903
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
25 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Florida with extensive experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I have a deep commitment to addressing issues across diverse life stages—from young adulthood through aging and end-of-life transitions. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and holistic, focusing on areas such as self-love, communication skills, social connections, and healing from isolation or shame. I particularly enjoy working with women, multicultural populations, and individuals experiencing significant life transitions. Whether supporting those managing mood disorders, processing grief, or exploring life purpose, I create a supportive environment where clients can develop meaningful insights and strategies for emotional wellness. With 25 years of professional experience, I bring a nuanced, empathetic perspective to our work together. My goal is to help you understand yourself more deeply and cultivate resilience through collaborative, personalized therapeutic support.

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Claudia Smith

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 11171
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionADHD
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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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Willie Denard

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 24259
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I have been a Licensed Clinical Social worker and Mental Health Therapist in the State of California with over 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse and depression, as well as other life issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths and values 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.

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Tiffany Whittington

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 150425
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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June Cichowicz

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 23696
Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am licensed in California with more than 20 years of professional counseling experience. My work began after completing graduate work at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety and depression, coping with relationship issues , and motivation and self esteem. My work includes assisting clients who are coping with life changes and transitions ( including serious illness, grief and loss). I completed a two year mental health fellowship at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles working with a broad and diverse client population from children to teens and adolescents, as well as adults with a variety of abilities and backgrounds. My personal life experience has served me well as a roadmap and path toward my goal of assisting others in managing life transitions and changes. It may surprise you to know that I find a sense of humor can be a helpful tool in many, but not all situations. You may ask why I do this work: My reward is the ability to be part of a goal oriented team with members/clients. It is a gift to have the opportunity to participate in the change process. 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, although you may not always be aware of that . Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and satisfying life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. June A. Cichowicz. M.S.S.W., L.C.S.W.

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Damian Robledo

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 66152
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
14 years of experience

I’m a licensed therapist in California with over 14 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s challenges. My areas of focus include stress and anxiety, relationship difficulties, depression, low self-esteem, and motivation struggles. I also offer executive and professional coaching to help clients enhance clarity, leadership, and balance in their lives. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in creating a safe, judgment-free space where you feel truly heard. I believe in honoring your strengths while helping you navigate obstacles and reconnect with what matters most to you. Taking the first step toward healing or personal growth is an act of courage. Whether you're seeking meaningful change, greater self-understanding, or simply someone to talk to, I’m here to support and empower you on your journey.

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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!

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Karen Ann Marshalleck

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 45436
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. 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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Maria Barreto

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 127266
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients develop self-compassion, improve communication skills, and overcome challenges related to social anxiety, isolation, and personal growth. With a deep understanding of depression, stress, anxiety, and trauma, I create a compassionate and collaborative therapeutic environment. I'm committed to empowering clients to build resilience, enhance self-esteem, and develop effective coping strategies. My therapeutic work focuses on understanding each person's unique experiences and strengths. I believe in a holistic approach that honors individual journeys, helping clients reconnect with themselves and develop healthier, more fulfilling relationships with others and themselves. Through evidence-based practices, I support clients in transforming challenging emotional patterns, cultivating self-love, and creating meaningful personal change. My goal is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where healing and personal growth can flourish.

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Michael Uthoff

Offering therapy in California
License: CA Psychologist 27619
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
10 years of experience

You deserve to live the highest quality of life you can. Often times we try to heal from both emotional and mental pain by seeking out external factors that are rarely in our control only to see minimally lasting results. My work with you would focus on learning to look inwardly for growth and healing. Understanding how your body and mind respond to emotional experiences can help you be in control regardless of the external factors. You have everything you need to heal; you are not "broken" nor do you need "fixing" sometimes we simply get lost along the way. I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, intimacy related 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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William Goldberg

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 451, WA LMHC LH60841434
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersDepression
25 years of experience

I am a Licensed Therapist in California and Washington with over 25 years of professional experience in the mental health field. I specialize in supporting individuals through life’s challenges, with expertise in Stress and Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Trauma and PTSD, Substance Use and Recovery, Sleep and Wellness Concerns. My approach is rooted in creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and emotions. I believe therapy works best when it is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to your unique needs. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and balanced life requires courage. Whether you are facing overwhelming stress, navigating a difficult relationship, or seeking healing from past experiences, I am here to support you on your journey of growth and wellbeing. Together, we will work toward building resilience, clarity and a greater sense of peace in your life.

This is Sheryl Snow's avatar and link to their profile

Sheryl Snow

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 52989
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
25 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California with over 25 years of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional experiences. My approach is deeply compassionate and culturally informed, with a particular focus on addressing challenges like depression, trauma, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I bring expertise in helping clients navigate diverse life experiences, including workplace stress, family conflicts, trauma recovery, and personal identity exploration. My therapeutic style centers on creating a supportive, affirming environment where individuals can develop self-understanding, build resilience, and cultivate meaningful change. My practice honors the unique journey of each person, drawing from evidence-based approaches to address a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, DBT, humanistic, psychodynamic, solution-focused and rational-emotive therapy. We will tailor your treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, seeking to improve communication, or working through life transitions, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional guidance.

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.
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