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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Menachem Stulberger

Offering therapy in California
License: NH LMFT 309, ND LMFT 2022-085
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist with 9 years of experience counseling a wide range of clients. I have worked with clients on grief and loss, depression and anxiety as well as substance abuse concerns. I take a warm approach with clients and use a client centered approach to therapy. I have been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy and approach the sessions in a collaborative manner always working together with people I am working with. I respect that you took this step to seek out a listening ear and I look forward to working together with you on this journey. I was born in New York and as a young child my family moved out to Los Angeles and I have been here ever since. Growing up I was always fascinated by the field of psychology and when I was going for my Bachelors Degree I therefore choose to major in psychology. I attended Touro College Los Angeles for my Bachelors degree and then pursued my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy through Touro University Worldwide. When working with clients I take a warm and empathetic approach and really try to hear what the client is saying. Therapy can be very rewarding but it is often challenging to talk about the difficulties that we face. In session I strive to create a supportive and safe space where we can work together mindfully and without judgement to increase wellness. Thank you for taking the time to look over my profile. I look forward to working together!

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Naomi Smith

Offering therapy in California
License: MI LMSW 6801078790, CO LCSW CSW.09929890
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
24 years of experience

My name is Naomi Smith. I am a licensed master social worker with 24 years of experience in working in mental health and also providing therapeutic services to Individuals. My primary focus as a clinician is helping my clients meet their needs and build their confidence. As a therapist, I have the skill to compassionately listen, be non-judgmental, and at all times provide support, encouragement and empowerment. My approach to therapy is simple: “Restoring peace, one day at a time, one piece at a time.” My commitment to my clients is to be open and honest in all my communication and to help each client reach their personal goals. The process of change is a heart issue and that change can only come from within. I believe every client has a purpose to fulfill and the ability to realize that purpose in their present life. This is why I enthusiastically use Person-Centered Planning with clients. In order to be successful, a client must be willing, dedicated, and committed to accomplishing their individual plan. My commitment as a therapist is to help guide, impart, and facilitate that change process. The integrity of my character and words are of the highest standard. My communication is honest and open. I am excited and privileged to be a part of your journey to change, success, and a future that looks much brighter. I look forward to working with you! SPECIALTIES • Bi-polar Disorder • Depression • Anxiety • Grief and Loss • Self-Esteem • Anger Management Also experienced in: Spiritual Counseling, Emotional Issues, Behavioral Issues, Substance Abuse, Life Application Coach, Forgiveness, Communication Problems, Caregiver issues and Stress, Abandonment, Co-dependency, Guilt and Shame. Clinical approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic Therapy Years of Experience: 24

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Yovani Ayala

Offering therapy in California
License: NC LCSW C011006, SC LISW-CP 14722
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
10 years of experience

Hi! My name is Yovani. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, residing in North Carolina, with over 10 years experience in providing clinical counseling. I have training and certifications to assist clinical disorders of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Personality, Adult ADHD. I provide tailored treatment approaches with each client, approaches to individualize each person's desired goals. I center my interventions with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and my approaches in providing therapy are supportive, empathetic, direct and goal oriented. Its important for me to connect with my clients and build a therapeutic relationship, work together to achieve goals in building blocks, continuing to progress from the previous sessions' work. In helping you to feel better, we will celebrate progress and achievements, we will be compassionate to the struggles and mistakes, we will build resiliency and continued motivation, and we will work to learn how to maintained the learned skills to use after end of treatment care.

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(Louise) Karin Wiese

Offering therapy in California
License: MI LMFT 4101007103, CA LMFT 147385
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuse
6 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California and Missour I support especially couples as well as individuals navigating complex life challenges with compassion and understanding. My practice focuses on helping couples, marriages, blended families as well as individual clients with communication, addressing stress, anxiety, infidelity and family conflicts, and with trauma recovery. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive, faith-sensitive environment that honors each person's unique journey. My approach centers on empowering clients to develop stronger communication skills, rebuild self-love, and work through challenging emotional experiences. With expertise in women's issues as well as a heart for steuggles of single dads, life transitions, and multicultural concerns, I offer a holistic approach that respects individual experiences. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, workplace challenges, or personal growth, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. My therapeutic style integrates evidence-based practices with a warm, collaborative approach, helping clients discover their inner strength and create meaningful pathways toward healing and personal transformation and using CBT when necessary. For couples I am trained in Gottman Methods as well as Edmotional Focused Therapy (EFT) and favour this approach for the struggles in marriage and reltionships.

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Diana Bernhardy

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW LCS13837
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
32 years of experience

Hello, my name is Diana Bernhardy. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years experience working with diverse groups and treatment issues. Past experiences have included primarily working in a forensic inpatient psychiatric mental health facility providing dydactic treatment with individuals with moderate to severe mental disorders, antisocial /criminal behaviors, and substance abuse. I've also worked in private practice and outpatient mental health services providing various treatment modalities and interventions in addressing various topics, i.e., depression, anxiety, stress, anger, grief/loss , separation issues, self esteem issues, women issues, PTSD/trauma, and case management. I explore the mental, behavior and spiritual aspects of the person to achieve wholeness and wellness. Thank you for reading my profile and I look forward to working with you.

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Lynn Vinson

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 24854
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Hi - My name is Lynn Vinson, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 10 years of professional work experience as a licensed therapist. I have been a social worker for over 20 years in other areas such as child protective social worker, hospital social worker, social worker in 2 psychiatric health facilities in 2 states, private practice and most recently as a psychotherapist in a family health clinic. In my spare time I worked as an after hours crisis intervention member of a team specializing in crisis triage. I provide therapy to mostly adults but I also enjoy helping teenagers. My style is eclectic, utilizing cognitive behavioral, mindfulness and positive psychology techniques. I am non judgemental and provide an environment of acceptance and trust. I have faith based values without imposing on others. SPECIALTIES: Pre-weight loss surgery consultation and therapy ( I had weight loss surgery myself in 2004) Anxiety/Depression Relationship problems Life transitions and aging issues (I am 73) Support for caregivers Grief and Loss Guilt and Shame Adults Molested As Children Experience: 10 plus years as a therapist, 20 plus years as a social worker for children and their parents, worked in 2 psychiatric hospitals. 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. Thank Your for considering me as your therapist.

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Andrea Plate

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 22904
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California, with 20 years of professional work experience. For nearly 15 years I ran a residential substance abuse treatment program within the West Los Angeles Department of Veterans Affairs, serving those suffering from homelessness and chronic mental illness. Now working with individuals in the population at large, I do my best to help clients cope with: anxiety, personal and professional setbacks, addiction, major life changes, relationship conflicts and career concerns. I also refine and enhance my practice through teaching social welfare and addiction at a major West Los Angeles university. 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.

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Christine Block

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 42751, FL LMHC Mh16966
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesAnger managementBipolar disorder
20 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California and Florida with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on creating affirming, compassionate spaces for clients exploring challenges related to stress, anxiety, relationships, and personal growth. I bring deep expertise in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, addressing workplace dynamics, and helping clients work through life transitions. My approach is rooted in understanding each person's unique journey, with a particular focus on issues like social anxiety, communication challenges, self-love, and personal identity. My therapeutic style emphasizes collaborative healing, drawing from evidence-based practices to help clients develop resilience, insight, and meaningful strategies for emotional well-being. I'm committed to supporting diverse experiences, including those related to sexuality, cultural identity, and personal transformation. Whether you're confronting relationship difficulties, managing anxiety, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional guidance.

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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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Dr. Bobbie Paul

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 29201
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
32 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 32 years of professional work experience. I have training and experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, depression and 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am confident we can develop the necessary tools so you can prevail over your current challenges and achieve your goals. If you wish to know more about my approach to therapy visit my website at https://www.bobbiejpaul.com.

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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.

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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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Christian Maciel

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 49068
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Indiana and California, I bring 25 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and trauma recovery. I am committed to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their challenges and cultivate personal growth. My therapeutic work spans a wide range of focus areas, including self-esteem, communication, social anxiety, life transitions, and healing from past experiences. Drawing from extensive clinical training, I help individuals navigate difficult emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and rediscover their inner strength. Whether you're struggling with workplace stress, relationship patterns, or personal identity challenges, I offer supportive guidance tailored to your specific needs. My practice is rooted in respect for individual experiences, with a deep understanding of multicultural perspectives and the nuanced ways personal challenges intersect with broader life contexts. I'm dedicated to walking alongside you as you move toward greater self-understanding and emotional wellness.

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William Money

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 151936
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf 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, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with despression. 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.

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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