Finding a therapist in California can be challenging, even in major cities, when high costs, long wait times, or limited availability make in-person care difficult. Whether you live in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, or a smaller community, online therapy through BetterHelp offers statewide access to licensed mental health professionals without the need to commute. BetterHelp is one of the world’s largest online therapy platforms, with 30,000+ licensed therapists globally and more than 6 million people helped worldwide.

With BetterHelp, you can connect with a licensed California therapist from home at times that fit your schedule to work through concerns like anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, relationship challenges, and life transitions. The platform delivers proven results, with 72% of users experiencing a reduction in symptoms within 12 weeks, and a 4.9 out of 5 average session rating from over 1.7 million reviews. While insurance is not yet available in California, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model typically ranges from $70–$100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors like location, source, preferences, therapist availability and any applicable discounts or promotions that might apply. Learn more about future coverage on our insurance page.

Browse licensed therapists in California and find a match that works for your needs, schedule, and coverage.

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This is Mary Allen's avatar and link to their profile

Mary Allen

Offering therapy in California
License: ND LCSW 6242, WI LCSW 8198-123
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
31 years of experience

Hi, I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in both Wisconsin (8198-123) and California (29109) for 27+ years. I am also licensed in North Dakota (6242) and Nevada (10384-C). I have worked with clients having a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, OCD and ADHD, military life, discrimination/bullying, emotional and physical abuse/trauma, PTSD, responder issues, parenting problems, and, grief. My counseling style is direct, warm, compassionate, goal focused, and, interactive. The "fit" has to feel right for the client or their goals will not be realized. My approach combines several evidenced-based approaches some of which include cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, humanistic, and rational-emotive. You will set the goals and together we will explore the treatment approach that will meet your specific and unique needs. You've made that difficult first step-reaching out. Congratulations-that's not easy! I look forward to working with, supporting and empowering you!

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Dr. James Decker

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 9715
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
45 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 45 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Alexis Reid

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 125880
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Vesna Sturman

Offering therapy in California
License: CA Psychologist 28290
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

Hello, I specialize in anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and trauma (in 1996 I received a certificate in the treatment of trauma). My post doctorate was at a residential substance abuse center, and I have treated many clients with this issue both there and in my private practice. While I was at the treatment center, I created a mindfulness curriculum, and I conducted several types of group therapy. The people that I treated in private practice often had more than one concern and I found that the techniques of mindfulness, guided imagery, and biofeedback helped them a great deal. I tend to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (including exposure therapy) and short-term therapy, depending on the client. Tapping is a recent addition to my repertoire. My clients have been children aged 5-10 and adults. I have diagnosed many persons and I have written letters to lawyers and the State Disability Insurance department on behalf of my clients. Due to the pandemic, I closed my private practice office and I have recently used telehealth to counsel clients. Sincerely, Dr. Vesna Sturman, Psy 28290

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Natalie Alepin

Offering therapy in California
License: AZ LPC LPC-20731, CA LPCC 14523
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionADHD
27 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio and California and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri and Arizona with 28 years of experience working in crisis, outpatient and inpatient settings. I have worked with clients from 3 to the 90's with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, anger management, career challenges, existential crisis, and ADHD. I also helped many people with debilitating medical illnesses and chronic pain. I am flexible and available for reality therapy if requested. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with unconditional positive regard. I am respectful, sensitive, and compassionate. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, mindfulness and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. You are taking steps towards change and I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Angelique (Gigi) Tsontos

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 27861, KS LSCSW LSCSW 05780
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
15 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Kansas, I bring 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex life transitions and personal challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate relationship dynamics, career shifts, family conflicts, and personal growth. I specialize in working with women's issues, addressing communication challenges, exploring life purpose, and supporting individuals through significant life changes. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and collaborative, focusing on attachment dynamics, workplace challenges, and healing from past traumatic experiences. I offer a supportive environment where clients can explore sensitive topics like sexuality, midlife transitions, and personal identity with understanding and respect. Drawing from extensive clinical expertise, I am committed to empowering individuals to develop stronger interpersonal skills, overcome obstacles, and create meaningful pathways toward personal transformation. My goal is to provide thoughtful, client-centered guidance that honors each person's unique journey and potential for growth.

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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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Cynthia "Cindi" Christiansen

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 42690, UT LMFT 14221826-3902
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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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Eugene Yamamoto

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 65018
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
30 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker LCSW therapist in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. 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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Abbe Goodman

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 18873
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, eating disorders, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with patients of all ages, including children, teens, seniors and families to positively create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Let me further emphasize that the adolescent population can freely discuss feelings and situations with me. I encourage you to take the first step towards seeking a more fulfilling and happier life which takes courage. I emphasize that I am here to support you in that process.

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Dr. Raoul Kaufman

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 15382
GriefEating disordersParenting issuesSelf esteemCoaching
40 years of experience

I am a licensed Doctor of Mental Health in California with 40 years of experience. Throughout my career, I have supported clients dealing with grief and loss, eating disorders, parenting challenges, and issues related to motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I approach each person with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I believe in creating personalized treatment plans that address your unique needs. Taking the step toward a more fulfilling and joyful life requires courage, and I am here to support and empower you on that journey toward positive change.

This is Brenda Boudreaux's avatar and link to their profile

Brenda Boudreaux

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 78537
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger management
14 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with anger management. 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 Mark Saverino's avatar and link to their profile

Mark Saverino

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 11155
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
35 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, anger management, 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. 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 Javier Gonzalez's avatar and link to their profile

Javier Gonzalez

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 101922
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a Hispanic Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California, originally from Mexico, and I am deeply committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of the Latino/Hispanic community. My therapeutic work is grounded in cultural understanding, respect, and lived experience. I specialize in helping individuals navigate relationship challenges, cope with stress and anxiety, and overcome struggles with addiction. Growing up in poverty and surrounded by the very real risks of gang involvement and community violence, I understand firsthand the complex pressures many in our community face. Through resilience, support, and education, I was able to forge a different path—becoming a U.S. citizen, completing my college education, and earning my master’s degree in social work. These experiences shape the way I practice therapy today: with authenticity, empathy, and a deep belief in each person’s capacity for healing and change. For many years, I have worked closely with Latino/Hispanic individuals and families, providing therapy from a culturally attuned perspective that honors our shared values, challenges, and strengths. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming space where clients feel understood—where they can explore their experiences openly and build healthier relationships with themselves, their partners, and their families. I bring real-world insight, professional training, and cultural connection to every session. Whether you’re struggling with addiction, stress, relationship conflict, or simply feeling stuck, I’m here to help you move forward with compassion and clarity.

Find Therapy Near You in California

Finding a licensed therapist near you in California can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

With a population of 32,349,851, California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in California, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in California (CA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across San Joaquin, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Modoc, Riverside, Madera, Alameda, Contra Costa, Mendocino, Humboldt, Orange, Sierra, Solano, Tulare, Plumas, Marin, San Diego, Alpine, Placer, Nevada, Calaveras, Santa Clara, Amador, Napa, Santa Cruz, Shasta, Sacramento, Colusa, Kings, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Glenn, Kern, Mono, San Mateo, Merced, Fresno, El Dorado, Santa Barbara, Butte, Tehama, Lassen, Trinity, Tuolumne, Inyo, Monterey, Sonoma, Imperial, Mariposa, Yuba, Stanislaus, Siskiyou, Ventura, Yolo, Lake, Del Norte, Sutter, San Francisco, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across California with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

When searching for a therapist near me in California, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across California, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across California.

Finding a therapist near you that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in California want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in California without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in California (CA)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in California

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across California, including residents in San Joaquin, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Modoc, Riverside, Madera, Alameda, Contra Costa, Mendocino, Humboldt, Orange, Sierra, Solano, Tulare, Plumas, Marin, San Diego, Alpine, Placer, Nevada, Calaveras, Santa Clara, Amador, Napa, Santa Cruz, Shasta, Sacramento, Colusa, Kings, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Glenn, Kern, Mono, San Mateo, Merced, Fresno, El Dorado, Santa Barbara, Butte, Tehama, Lassen, Trinity, Tuolumne, Inyo, Monterey, Sonoma, Imperial, Mariposa, Yuba, Stanislaus, Siskiyou, Ventura, Yolo, Lake, Del Norte, Sutter, San Francisco.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in California do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times for online therapy may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

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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