Finding a therapist in California can be challenging. Even in some of the biggest California cities, barriers to treatment, like concerns about cost or a lack of available providers, can make finding in-person therapy 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 and meet your highest potential. From young adults needing help managing the effects of ADHD to seniors struggling to heal from events of the past, therapists can help adults of any age navigate the challenges in their lives and learn how 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 and learn more about the benefits of online treatment.

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Shirley Semel

Offering therapy in California
License: MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
8 years of experience

Welcome! I am very excited that you have taken the first step to finding the support that you need. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in the state of California. I have worked with all ages of individuals and have experience facilitating groups dealing with domestic violence, anger management and addiction relapse prevention. I strive to earn your trust through creating an environment in which you will be free to share whatever is on your mind in an atmosphere of compassion and without judgment. One of my passions is to help you live a life in which you are free to explore who you are in every aspect of your life. I want you to know how special you are and that you deserve to live a life that you have always dreamed of. We can do that by looking into the areas of your life that are keeping you stuck for whatever reason and learning what it is that you really gives you joy and contentment in every area of your life. My special interests include helping people deal with addictions and co-occurring disorders, relationship and family issues, helping families dealing with mentally ill loved ones, as well as Christian counseling for individuals and families. I especially take joy in seeing people reach their full potential in life through God’s eyes. But whatever your situation is I want you to be able to share it in a caring and nurturing environment. Once again, I am so excited that you have taken this first step in learning more about yourself in order to have a richer life. I look forward to working with you soon.

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Marla Monk

Offering therapy in California
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Marla Monk, MA, MSW, LCSW, LISWCP Clinician I have over 16 years of experience in the social work and mental health field. I also have experience working with the active duty military population and their families as well as veterans. Previously, I worked in Marine and Family Programs within Marine Corps Community Services as a Prevention and Education Specialist and as a Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Victim Advocate. Additionally, I have volunteered as a Command Ombudsman with the Navy and a Key Volunteer with the Marine Corps in San Diego and Hawaii. In 2013, I earned my MSW from the University of Southern California with a concentration in mental health and sub-concentration in military and veteran services. In 2011 I earned MA in Human Services with a specialization in marriage and families from Liberty University and in 2001 earned my B.A. in Criminology from the University of New Mexico. I am experienced in working with those impacted by trauma, grief and loss and domestic violence as well as couples and families. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Additionally, I am trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.

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Amy Klein Duane

Offering therapy in California
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

Hi. My name is Amy Klein Duane, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker in the state of California. I have extensive experience working with various populations of all ages: I spent many years focused on the psychology of child development and challenges faced in teenage years and adulthood. I have expertise in working with people struggling with anxiety disorders; specifically selective mutism and social anxiety. I also have experience working with chronic mental illness in a day treatment program. In addition, I have worked extensively with aging and independence issues and bereavement and grief counseling. I am a firm believer in short term and solution based therapy when appropriate: I often integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Short Term Psychodynamic therapy (although I customize my practice based on a client's needs). I believe in teaching coping skills while using Positive Psychotherapy to the help the client use their own strengths to overcome difficulties. I am supportive, observant, compassionate, and an attentive listener.

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Richard Wendt

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I earned a Masters of Arts in Marriage, Family, Child Counseling and a Masters of Divinity with an emphasis in New Testament Theology from Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary. My Masters work in traumatic stress has led me to specialize in Trauma and PTSD in both adults and children and am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I have experience in Law Enforcement, firefighting, and EMS as a Paramedic. I have experience in ministry working as pastor, chaplain, and pastoral counselor. Before opening my private practice I worked as a therapist at the College of the Sequoias, Visalia Youth Services and with Trinity Ministries Group. I work with adults, adolescents, children, family and couples. I enjoy working with adolescents and children with behavioral, mood and anxiety problems. I work with the military, law enforcement, firefighters, and paramedics and their families. My approach is to come along side of you to assist you in developing healthier relationships and coping skills. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Kelly Kratzer

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues (including parenting neurodivergent children), motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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.

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Janetta Berry- Sissoko

Offering therapy in California
License: MSHR,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed professional counselor in Oklahoma, Texas, Washington, California & Nevada, with over 14 years of experience working in mental health and behavioral health field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, and those involved in court ordered services. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect and dignity while being non judgmental. I believe anyone can change if they are willing to do the work to make those changes. My therapy approach is cognitive-behavioral. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to acknowledge that there are areas in your life that you could improve and making the first step in asking for assistance is the biggest step. I am happy to partner with you on this journey. I look forward to working with you!

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Antonio Medrano

Offering therapy in California
LGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.

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Andrea Ziebell

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

Hello, I’m Andrea. My aim is to foster an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be expressed freely- without judgment. Together, we can explore ways during our sessions to tailor your unique concerns and issues, formulate a strategy to achieve the goals you aspire to achieve. During our sessions, I can be the ear you need, a confidential space to share and validation that you are being heard--you're not alone. I'm versed in various therapeutic techniques and will find one that fits you best. If your new to the therapy process, you may want psychoeducation- understanding symptoms, ways to manage them, find coping strategies focusing on your strengths or journaling, homework assignments (OR NOT), create a wellness plan with other activities, practicing effective communication and learn about anger management skills, with solution focused, or CBT. As a California-licensed professional with experience in the mental health, substance abuse, negative impact related to legal issues have caused, I'm ready to start alongside your recovery efforts. My therapeutic interest lies from life experiences, exposure working with abused/neglected children and inpatient/outpatient treatment with male/female adults. I look forward to meeting with you.

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Gregory White

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and substance abuse, & coping with grief. The truth is my personal journey to overcome challenges has given me the experience to be an effective clinical therapist. I am a strengths based therapist and I know that with honesty in self evaluation any rejection and self doubt can be overcome, I am proof. I do this work because I have devoted myself to overcoming my mistakes and failures. I am a Christian therapist and am more than happy to include, (if you desire), spiritual principles in your recovery, but it is something that must be requested by you. I am here as proof that mistakes can be overcome and do not dictate your future. I accept couples for therapy and have been married for 20 yrs. and we have been able to work through many issues and having a supportive and loving spouse is such a blessing and would be happy to give hope to any married couples that would welcome a Christian therapist.

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Marco Regalado Chacon

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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 a BetterHelp therapist does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor?

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, such as:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression or depressive conditions
  • Adjustment issues
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma
  • Relationship conflicts and concerns

Finding a therapist 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 site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the 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 a therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. 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.

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.

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 insurance cover the cost of therapy?

Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.

Is online therapy 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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