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 Toi Lynn Wyle's avatar and link to their profile

Toi Lynn Wyle

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 33428
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Welcome. I’m so glad you reached out today. We are in the middle of unprecedented challenges, and you do not have to face them alone. I’m a Psychotherapist, Personal & Professional Coach, Hypnotherapist, and Yoga & Meditation teacher with 25+ years of experience supporting others along their life path. ~~I believe in my clients~~ I believe in your inherent wisdom and resources. I’ve had the honor of witnessing my clients move inner and outer mountains to make positive life changes as they become who they are meant to become. I believe this work as not about fixing someone or simply solving a problem, but about fostering self-awareness and providing the tangible tools you can use for a lifetime. I see myself as a facilitator and collaborator to empower my clients to find their own answers and use those answers to take clear and confident action in their life. I sincerely care about my clients. You are the reason I do this work. ~~What You’ll Get from Our Collaboration~~ You'll l have a solid and safe space where you’ll be seen, heard, respected and reflected. You'll be gaining an ally who fully supports your lived experience, who respects your unique way of being in the world. You'll become more aware of yourself and life around you, more tuned in to your values, needs, motivations, fears and desires. You'll become more present with yourself, others and life itself. You'll learn how to be your own therapist, coach, and friend. You'll come away from each session feeling more clear, confident, and capable of navigating your current and future life challenges. :::It's important to find a therapist that matches you, so below is a little bit more info about me::: ~~How I Am~~ My natural way of being in this work and in life is grounded, curious, compassionate, and intuitive. Over the years, my clients and students have described me as calming, warm, nurturing, efficient, and empowering. While our work is undoubtedly serious at times, humor is essential as well. ~~How I Work~~ I’m a Holistic or Integrative therapist, which means I work with the head, heart, body, and spirit to facilitate healing and transformation. I interweave traditional talk therapy and life coaching with various forms of cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, and somatic therapies. ~~Where I’ve Worked~~ I’ve worked in hospitals, schools, colleges, career centers, tech companies, virtual therapy providers, and non-profits. I've worked with clients of all ages from the US and countries around the world. I founded and directed a large healing arts center where I managed 25 employees offering yoga classes and other healing services. I’ve been a Yoga & Meditation teacher for 24 years, and have led numerous community events and retreats in-person and online. ~~Other Things~~ I’m a writer, as well as an avid nature photographer. Dogs, I do love dogs - raising them as well as training and nurturing them into wholeness. They are an important part of my passion and purpose. I look forward to the possibility of working with you.

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Trisha Taylor

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 115894
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
13 years of experience

Hello! Having over 13. years of experience, I enjoy being a safe, non-judgmental place for you to work through what is going through your head and your heart in your life. I have been on my psychotherapist, life coach journey for years graduating with my Master’s in Counseling in 2011. As a California licensed Marriage, Family and Child therapist (MFT), I guide and coach on assisting, learning, and growing with financial stress, family & relationships, ANY addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, abandonment, sexual identity; every person involved in an adoption, surrogacy, and physical illnesses. Through solution focused, CBT, person centered and other approaches I guide, assist, and help decrease, manage and in some cases put to rest issues. Helping is my passion. I can help. I am safe.

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Dr. Angelique Hood

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 16750
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsEating disordersDepression
32 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & eating disorders. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Adekanbi Ogunade

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 91989
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
12 years of experience

I have been a clinical social worker for more than 10+ years and have been privileged to work with people both in psychiatric inpatient, outpatient treatment, case management, and in individual therapy treatment. I’m strong believer of community mental health approach. I have worked with people of different backgrounds dealing with multiple mental health issues with wide range of concerns including mood disorder, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and stress related problems, substance use related problems, parenting problems, career challenges, problems related to legal system and incarceration, problems related to social environment, abuse and neglect, acute psychiatric conditions, OCD and ADHD. My style of treatment is showing respect and non-judgmental labels. I allow clients to educate me and guide me through their path of existence. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, client-centered, narrative, solution-focused, and humanistic counseling. It’s step in right direction and courageous to reach out to seek change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support you in creating a partnership of strength towards wellness. I look forward to working with you. Session options: video/phone Availability: Mondays 10am-2pm; 4pm-7pm Wednesdays & Thursday 5pm-8pm Fridays & Saturdays 9am-7pm Sundays 2pm-6pm

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Maritza Alvarez-Pena

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 138711
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
23 years of experience

I am a bilingual licensed marriage and family therapist in California with over 20 years of professional work experience. My Masters degree is in Psychology Counseling and my license is in Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with couples, groups, families and individuals and help address well being, family, friend or life conflicts. My areas are expertise are many such as treating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and more. 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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Sylvia Fernandez Rangel

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 77305
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger management
16 years of experience

I am a therapist licensed in California with more than 17 years of experiences in clinical practice. I work with clients who experience a wide range of symptoms and concerns, including depression, anxiety, anger, relationship issues, addictions, parenting problems, career challenges, sexual issues, and daily stressors. I have also worked with individuals who have dual/diagnosis and diagnosis and people who have experienced trauma and abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive, yet also direct and honest. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, compassion and understanding and do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, client centered psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. I tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you.

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Sara Ramirez

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 107829
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dr. Ida Greene

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 14774
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefAnger managementCoaching
36 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, anger management, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Angela Lopez-Morales

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 109796
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, coping with addictions, parenting issues, & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Aspen Burnett

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 18696
Trauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma, abuse, parenting issues, anger management, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Sherri Kardell

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 113970
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
7 years of experience

Dear potential client (s) My name is Sherri and I am a licensed marriage family therapist and life coach in California. I offer psychotherapy and life coaching to individuals grappling with some of life's more challenging transitions. Whether you are experiencing grief from the loss of a significant loved one, the end of the a significant relationship, or have a broken heart, I am here to be a calm presence during turbulent times. Perhaps you are experiencing a cycle of stops and starts, but have been unable to access a sense of inner calm. Or you have experienced repetitive patterns of loneliness, an inability to decipher your life's purpose, or you struggle to form and/or maintain intimate partnerships. I work with individuals in order to improve self confidence and live more authentic lives, resolve relationship conflicts, and process early relational wounding and trauma in order to resolve faulty belief systems and address unconscious patterns. I work primarily from an attachment based understanding of human development that seeks to reclaim aspects of the self that were left by the wayside in order to adapt to early conditioning, often related to cultural norms, rigid gender conditioning, and outdated social expectations. I offer a depth of tools designed to help you reconnect with your core sense of self, and heal early relational wounding that have shaped your belief systems and sense of worthiness in the world. In addition to 6 + years of clinical experience, I have earned the highest level of education in my field. Additionally, I have committed myself to a decade if spiritual practice, which has given me the ability to see through entrenched defense systems and patterns, and has helped me to develop a deep sense of empathy and attunement to the unconscious whispers of the soul. I offer a highbred approach to psychotherapy that often includes life-coaching. I conceptualize my role as akin to the Irish concept of "soul friend" a Celtic concept that emphasizes the importance of having someone that acts as a confidant that connects and understands you at the deepest level. Thus, I believe in treating others with respect, sensitively and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific goals. I understand, from my own experience, that taking the first step towards a more fulfilling life often takes courage and I am here to support you in that process.

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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.

This is William Money's avatar and link to their profile

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.

This is Hyun Joo Kim's avatar and link to their profile

Hyun Joo Kim

Offering therapy in California
License: IL LMFT 166.012051, CA LMFT 53972
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience

I am licensed in California, Georgia, Illinois, Oregon and Washington with 21 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 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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