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.

Read more
This is Nadja Zapasov's avatar and link to their profile

Nadja Zapasov

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 40782
Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
20 years of experience

Nadja Zapasov (MA, LMFT) ABOUT ME Welcome! I salute you on your choice to get help in moving forward in your life. Once you have made that decision, your own positive energy will support you and guide you to the next level. Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it. Begin it now.” William Hutchison Murray The energy of one’s thoughts has the power to create an extraordinary life (or not). Directing your positive and constructive thoughts and emotions to the creation of your goals is the first step in achieving them. I would be honored to assist you in realizing the next step in your life plan, whether it is in the area of relationships, education or career, creative pursuits, coping with life changes, or your personal spiritual evolution. Your “world view” or what your beliefs are about life (and death) are the key to what is happening (or not happening) for you. If you change the way you think, you change the energy that creates things in your life. You are in control of your thoughts. Can you change how you think and what you believe? Of course! Are you looking to explore the possibility of a more spiritual perspective? Although I may not have all the definitive answers, I have learned enough not to fear death. I can help with the ability to discuss those spiritual questions and universal laws, and assist you in learning to use practical methods to move you towards living your best life. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California since 2004, with a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Phillips Graduate University. The last twelve years I have worked with the active military and their families, and supervised thirty psychotherapists in their work with adults, children, families, and couples on military installations. Most people are looking for a better balanced life between work and personal satisfaction, as well as better communication, self-esteem, stress management, and how to cope with anxiety, infidelity, body issues, infertility, and parenting. We will work together using educational videos, books, art projects, and various other techniques that will enlarge your personal insights and are sure to make life more interesting and exciting!...you are the most important project you can work on! I really look forward to working with you--on YOU!

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.

This is Lorena Borella-Clements's avatar and link to their profile

Lorena Borella-Clements

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 84543, OR LMFT T1166
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
16 years of experience

We all inherently harbor the capability to heal from emotionally painful experiences. I utilize an eclectic approach to psychotherapy based on where one is emotionally, physically and spiritually. I have experience in treating and helping clients reduce and better manage symptoms of stress, anxiety, lingering symptoms of trauma/PTSD and in coping with grief, loss and depression. I provide a safe and empathetic place for healing. Your thoughts, feelings and experiences can be brought to light, without fear of judgment. I provide coping skills and techniques on how to improve emotional health and well being. It takes courage to initiate the process of healing and to identify that something is not working for ourselves. I am here to support & empower you, during your journey towards healing and emotional well being. I have been practicing and providing psychotherapy for 16 years. I'm a multicultural therapist. I was born in Argentina and immigrated to the United States, when I was 6 years old. I grew up in the Bay Area of California. I provide psychotherapy in both English and Spanish. I have a Bachelor's degree in Sociology from UC Santa Cruz and a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Sofia University in Palo Alto, California.

This is Rebecca Stallworth's avatar and link to their profile

Rebecca Stallworth

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 21669
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
38 years of experience

I have an extensive working experiences and training in the field of mental health such as depression, anxiety disorder and post-traumatic distress disorder. I also have a lot of working experiences in trauma recovery as a result of physical, emotional and emotional abuse. I have a lot of training and experiences in mindfulness therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interview approach, Stair trauma recovery services, seeking safety trauma therapy, emotion freedom tapping therapy and dialectic behaviors therapy as well. I have extensive experiences in individual and group psychotherapy. Furthermore, I am experienced in providing grief counseling and helping clients to deal with life challenges in different life phases. I have been providing counseling services for Veterans for years especially women veterans and their family at VA medical facility such as military sexual trauma and transitional issues into civilian world. I emphasize on person-centered approach, holistic whole care approach, and strength-oriented approach to help clients build up their strengths to make positive changes in their life. I believe in the strengths of clients as foundation for rebuilding their life, and help them change their life based on life goals and changes that they want to work on.

This is Dr. Paul Fisher's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Paul Fisher

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 23779
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
38 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over thirty years of professional counseling. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, marital and divorce counseling, teen issues, anger management, motivation, self- esteem, and confidence. I'm actively involved in the sessions. I believe that you have strengths that will assist you in working through your current issues. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy is a sign you desire to improve your life and relationships. I look forward to working with you.

This is Stacy Brown's avatar and link to their profile

Stacy Brown

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC LPCC20476, TX LPC 69278
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsEating disordersAnger managementADHD
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, eating disorders, & anger management. 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.

This is Matthew Poje's avatar and link to their profile

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

This is Kimberly Huerta's avatar and link to their profile

Kimberly Huerta

Offering therapy in California
License: CA Psychologist 35034
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed Clinical Psychologist in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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!

This is Jaclyn Decarlo's avatar and link to their profile

Jaclyn Decarlo

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 110649
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionADHD
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, life changes, stress and anxiety. Additionally, I have helped people cope with addictions, and increase motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I have previously worked in substance use treatment, housing first agencies, and with the forensic mental health population. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and have enjoyed working with teenagers in the past. 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 as I believe in meeting each individual where thy are are at. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process and am glad you are here.

This is Ryan Jordan's avatar and link to their profile

Ryan Jordan

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 17537
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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.

This is Samuel Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Samuel Smith

Offering therapy in California
License: CA Psychologist 20860
Relationship issuesAnger managementCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

With over two decades of dedicated clinical experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My therapeutic approach focuses on helping clients address depression, relationship challenges, anger management, career transitions, and life changes. I bring a compassionate and strategic perspective to our work together, drawing from extensive professional training and a deep commitment to understanding each person's unique journey. My goal is to create a supportive environment where you can explore your challenges, develop meaningful coping strategies, and move toward personal growth and emotional well-being. I welcome individuals seeking thoughtful, experienced guidance through life's most challenging moments.

This is Rosemary McFadden's avatar and link to their profile

Rosemary McFadden

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 44372
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesDepression
23 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, parenting issues, and marriage counseling. I also have experience working with depression. I believe you are the expert of your story and you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming life challenges. 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 and empower you in that journey.

This is Lynetta Hale's avatar and link to their profile

Lynetta Hale

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 154477
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience with people struggling with co-occurring substance use disorders and mental health conditions. In addition to my MFT licensure, I am also an addictions treatment counselor and a licensed psychiatric technician. I have experience in helping clients coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, stressful life changes, grief and loss, and I have experience working with veterans. I am a veteran myself (USAF), and I am an EMDR trained therapist. 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 toward seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Summyr Harris's avatar and link to their profile

Summyr Harris

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 16097
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
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, & anger management. I also have experience working with depression. 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.

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.
Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist