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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Juanita Holmes

Offering therapy in California
License: MO LCSW 2005002295, CA LCSW 71161
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Missouri with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Michelle Varady

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 129263, NV LCSW 11399-C
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Healing the Roots of the Self I am a licensed therapist with 15 years of professional work experience across California, Massachusetts, and Nevada. My primary focus is on Internal Family Systems (IFS) and deep Shadow Work. I believe true healing comes from more than just symptom management; it requires the courage to uncover and heal the roots of our challenges, such as trauma, anxiety, addiction, and low self-esteem. I teach powerful tools for managing day-to-day symptoms using integrated approaches like CBT, DBT, and Somatic Therapy, but my core mission is to facilitate lasting, foundational change. I believe you are the expert of your story, possessing many strengths that will assist you in overcoming what challenges you. It takes immense courage to seek a more fulfilling life, and I am here to support and empower you on that journey.

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Bruce "Bryce" Thompson

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 40994
LGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

As a licensed therapist with over two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting diverse couples and men through complex life transitions and personal growth. My practice centers on helping clients navigate relationship dynamics, intimacy challenges, and personal identity exploration, with a deep commitment to LGBTQ+ affirming care. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to therapy, focusing on areas like communication skills, self-love, workplace challenges, and men's emotional wellness. My background includes extensive work with veterans, multicultural communities, and individuals exploring sexuality, family dynamics, and life purpose. My therapeutic style emphasizes collaborative healing, creating a supportive space where clients can authentically explore their experiences, develop meaningful insights, and cultivate personal resilience. I'm dedicated to walking alongside you as you navigate your unique journey of self-discovery and transformation.

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Dr. John DeGaglia

Offering therapy in California
License: FL LMHC MH5115, CA LPCC 16726
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
25 years of experience

The selection of a psychotherapist is an intensely personal private intimate decision. Therapy is about one thing: focused communication. With the appropriate modification of language, we can think differently. If we think differently, we can change behaviors. And if we consistently change behaviors, they can become long-term, therapeutic, healthy change. Yes, that journey begins with the first step. My journey began last century with graduate school and licensure. Spent many years working with our incarcerated brothers and sisters. Their needs are real and varied. Being on the “outside” doesn’t mean you aren’t still incarcerated. Spent over a dozen years working with a Native American community. So many needs and so little time. A very special time in my life working with all ages, all needs, often through the assistance of an interpreter. From that chapter, I moved into substance abuse eventually becoming clinical director at several programs. Sobriety like therapy is a day-to-day process and there is nothing wrong with that. Perfection is not possible but excellence is attainable! Lastly, as a former first responder, spent over a decade assisting that community with critical incident stress. Actually, earned a doctorate with the research we all generated together. Nothing quite prepares you for that profession and the significant costs it exacts but if you would just like the opportunity to be, in a kind of ministry of presence, that is one of the reasons I am here . . . And for all, sometimes absolutely the best therapy comes from being with someone in a special moment without saying a word. So, how bout it? Even if it is not me, will you continue your search and seek? Why? Because there are some people on this Earth who do not need to meet you, be in a relationship with you, who know without a shadow of a doubt you are special! Unique! You are worthy! And although it may not be fashionable, will tell you are loved! Enjoy your journey and take that step and just maybe our paths will cross. Looking forward to it . . .

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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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Matthew Poje

Offering therapy in California
License: WI LPC 4911-125, CA LPCC 11515
Trauma and abuse
14 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Matt Poje, LPC. I specialize in the healing of emotional trauma, using the Instinctual Trauma Response method (ITR),I have 15 years working with Veterans via Department of Defense contracts, and over 23 yrs of professional work experience. I am licensed in CA, WI and NV. The ITR method uses over 100 years of neuroscience to help heal the brain. Since ITR uses neuroscience, you will learn the steps of the ITR method that will help you to become more resilient. ITR is not talk therapy in the classical sense. ITR is a focused, purposeful method of trauma healing. ITR is proven to work. If you are ready to work on a proven method of reducing symptoms of trauma, I look forward to work with you. I do not perform diagnostic tests. I use screening tools, and therefore will not provide any letters to employers or court systems. Before scheduling a session, Watch ITR videos: https://vimeo.com/752151441

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Peter Hilliard

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 7475
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementCoping with life changes
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, relationship issues, family conflicts, & anger management. 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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Pauline Padrul

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 25630
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California with over twenty years of professional work experience in behavioral health treatment. I also have a Master's degree in Public Health with a strong interest in behavioral epidemiology. I have worked with clients who typically present with stress and anxiety, eating disorders, motivation, self esteem issues & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths with which to overcome challenges and build resilience.

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Laurentara Weinman

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 146164
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

You have taken the first step in seeking to overcome the things that challenge you in your life and that takes courage. And I am here to support you in that process. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with six years of professional experience. I specialize in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ and related issues, and depression. I will listen carefully to you to understand your issues, not only on a conscious level, but on a subconscious level as well. In that way, I will have a deeper understanding of the change you desire in your life. I will approach you with compassion and understanding and will approach your issues with no shame, blame or criticism. My hope would be that you find our sessions to be meaningful, effective, and rewarding, leading to a path for a more peaceful, productive, and joyful life.

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Alejandro Holguin

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 82320
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California, I help individuals navigate life’s emotional challenges with compassion and clarity. My work focuses on supporting those experiencing stress, anxiety, and difficulties in relationships or personal growth. Together, we’ll explore the thoughts and emotions that may be holding you back and build practical strategies to help you move forward with confidence. I have extensive experience working with mood disorders, attachment concerns, panic attacks, and struggles related to self-worth, guilt, and shame. I also provide specialized support for fathers navigating the complexities of parenting, identity, and connection. My approach is grounded in evidence-based therapies and a deep respect for each client’s unique story. I strive to create a space where you feel seen, understood, and empowered to create lasting change. Therapy with me is collaborative, culturally responsive, and centered on helping you strengthen your relationship with yourself and others. If you’re ready to begin your journey toward healing and emotional balance, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

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Dr. Reginald Bruno

Offering therapy in California
License: NY LCSW 098104, CA LCSW 130680
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
28 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida. Virginia, Washington DC, Oregon, and New York with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping adult clients cope with and manage stress and anxiety, and a range of many other co-occurring disorders. I have helped clients coping with addictions, grief and loss, improving motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I have a good working and interactive experience with my clients to create an open and safe environment where their 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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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.

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Jennifer Avalos

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 134470, NC LCSW C019086
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
5 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in North Carolina and California, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My approach is deeply compassionate and affirming, with a focus on helping clients navigate challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and personal growth. I bring a trauma-informed, person-centered perspective to my practice, creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for healing. My work centers on empowering clients to build self-love, improve communication, and address issues like social anxiety, isolation, and life transitions. I'm particularly passionate about working with diverse populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, young adults, and those experiencing workplace stress, relationship challenges, and personal identity exploration. My therapeutic style emphasizes respect, authenticity, and collaborative growth, helping clients discover their inner strengths and create positive change. Through evidence-based practices, I support clients in developing resilience, understanding themselves more deeply, and moving toward a more fulfilling life. I believe every individual has unique potential, and I'm committed to walking alongside you in your journey of self-discovery and healing.

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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