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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Dr. Frederick Smoot

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 12959
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (CA #12959) with over 15 years of experience counseling/ accompanying persons through difficult parts of their life-journeys. I have worked with a wide range of concerns including Isolation. loneliness, fearfulness, anxiety, intimacy/relationship issues, parenting and career challenges, addiction, physical and emotional abuse and life transitions. My counseling style is warm, curious and appropriately truth-telling.. I treat others with respect and consistent presence. I work to sustain and shame-free context that empowers persons to (re)claim their lies and future with dignity. I am an accompanist, using therapeutic tools gathered from several clinical approaches. I am relational, client centered, mindful, and strategic. I believe that direction and goals for therapy are shaped together with the client. We will tailor a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Your willingness to reach out for support shows your courage and desire for a better future. I encourage you to take this step, accompanied and supported I look forward to working with you.

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Gema Martir

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 98858
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. 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.

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Julissa Sparks

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 7942
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
10 years of experience

Hi, I’m a licensed therapist in California, and for the past 10 years I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside people as they navigate life’s challenges — finding their footing again, rebuilding confidence, and learning to trust themselves. I work with people who are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck, or unsure of what’s next. Whether you’re going through a big life change, struggling with self-esteem, or just trying to feel more like yourself again, you don’t have to do it alone. I believe you already hold the answers and the strength you need — sometimes you just need a safe space and a little support to uncover them. Reaching out for help isn’t easy, and taking this step says so much about your courage. I’m really proud of you for being here and beginning this journey.

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James Goodwin

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 51474, NC LMFT 2018
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in California and North Carolina with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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.

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Joyce Tanner

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 10587
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
30 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified in the following areas: Life and Career Coaching, Family Group Conferences, Couples Communication, and Parent Facilitator with a successful consulting and psychotherapy practice. I have had the experience of practicing extensively in many States in America and more recently provided counseling, and training as a Child and Youth Behavioral Military and Family Life Counselor, working with military individuals and families. One of my niches is assisting blended families in creating healthy relationships and making them work and assessing foster and adoptive families. I am honored to listen to your life stories, witnessing increased self-awareness, be encouraging, and observe the identification of strengths, healing, transformation, and change. I continue to be inspired by the strength, resilience, and grace of our human spirit. I have done extensive work in the areas of grief, trauma, Gestalt, crisis, and stress management, Re-decision Making, self-care, Reality therapy, compassion fatigue, career management, goal setting, family reunification, anxiety, and life transitions. I obtained my Bachelor of Arts degree from Huston-Tillotson University in Austin, Texas, and my Master of Social Work from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, walking, engaging in great conversations, listening to music, singing, playing games, thinking positively, and laughing uncontrollably. I am the mother of three successful daughters. Living in several states and traveling extensively has required me to exert my courage in adjusting to change and enhanced my use of resources and coping skills. I genuinely believe that "No Man is An Island, No Man Stands Alone". As a seasoned mental health professional and educator, I continue to grow and enjoy the myriad of experiences that life offers and want to begin where you are on your life journey.

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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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Dr. Debra Bubar

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 17242
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
43 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, trauma and abuse, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life which takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Roberto Garcia II

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 139872
LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesParenting issues
6 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist certified to provide mental health services in the state of California. I have been providing mental health services for the past 5 years working with non-profit community mental health clinics, probation offices & court systems, middle school, high schools and now as a private practice clinician. Within these settings, I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, parents, teenagers, children and families at many different phases of life and personal development. When in session, I utilize trauma-informed and cultural-humility practices to ensure a sense of true respect, sensitivity and compassion for my clients' needs. Because of this, all sessions and services are tailored specifically to address the concerns of each client in their specific life settings. The modalities of therapy that I employ most regularly with my clients include: Psychodynamic, CBT, Existential, Narrative, and Solution Focused. My list of service experience includes: Couple's Counseling/Intimacy issues, Personal Self-Esteem and Decision-Making, LGBTQIA+2 issues, Faith-Based Issues, Anxiety/Depression/Stress, and much more. My hope is that my experience and expertise can be utilized to provide you a safe and secure space where you feel comfortable enough to process your concerns without fear of judgement or rejection. I want to congratulate you on taking this step in your journey to explore the best options for you. I also want to encourage you to continue this process and I hope to have the pleasure of meeting you soon!

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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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Sandra West

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 41583
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Lindsey Eggers

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 130833
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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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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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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.

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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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