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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Angela Oliver-Comer

Offering therapy in California
License: TX LMFT 202009, CA LMFT 36650
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
20 years of experience

Hi. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience providing therapy services to individuals and families experiencing depression or anxiety, family stressors, grief and loss or relationship issues. I strive to provide a safe, supportive and compassionate therapeutic environment. Exploring counseling and choosing the right therapist is not always an easy task. At times, we all struggle and the stressors of life can be overwhelming. It is my endeavor to help you successfully navigate the challenges you are facing and provide the skills and techniques to help you reach your goals. Congratulations on making the first step towards personal growth and improving your Mental Health. I look forward to working with you.

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Laura Laird

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 128388
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
11 years of experience

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California with over 9 years experience. I am passionate about and enjoy working with adults, to help them with the challenges they face, including unresolved trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues or whatever is holding you back. I have vast therapeutic and life experiences that help me better understand what you are going through and how to help you. Life is difficult, complicated and at times even traumatic, but it can also be filled with great joy and fulfillment. What is standing in the way of embracing the life you desire. It is not always easy getting to the point of asking for outside help. I recognize and respect the courage that it takes, and I am here to help you. I am a “person centered” therapist who works from a strength-based model using DBT, as well as techniques from CBT to help you access all that is within you to heal and change. One size does not fit all – No two people are the same, so no single therapy modality is right for everyone. I individualize treatment to ensure you are receiving what you need to reach your therapeutic and life goals. When you are willing to seek change, change will happen. Things can get better. Take that first step toward healing. I look forward to working with you!

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Diana Bernhardy

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW LCS13837
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
32 years of experience

Hello, my name is Diana Bernhardy. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years experience working with diverse groups and treatment issues. Past experiences have included primarily working in a forensic inpatient psychiatric mental health facility providing dydactic treatment with individuals with moderate to severe mental disorders, antisocial /criminal behaviors, and substance abuse. I've also worked in private practice and outpatient mental health services providing various treatment modalities and interventions in addressing various topics, i.e., depression, anxiety, stress, anger, grief/loss , separation issues, self esteem issues, women issues, PTSD/trauma, and case management. I explore the mental, behavior and spiritual aspects of the person to achieve wholeness and wellness. Thank you for reading my profile and I look forward to working with you.

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Laura Case

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 50491
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping 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, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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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Yvette Davis

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 64798
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
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, family conflicts, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. 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. By fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, I can help identify those strengths, overcome challenges, and embrace the opportunity to live courageously and authentically. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process from a state of emotional distress to one characterized by resilience, empowerment, growth and healing.

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Dorothy Holley

Offering therapy in California
License: FL LCSW SW6320, GA LCSW CSW005226
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuse
30 years of experience

I am licensed as a clinical social worker in both Georgia and Florida with more than 25 years of professional work experience. 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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Dr. Virginia Christophe

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 18211, TX LPC 9081
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
36 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Texas with over three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My approach centers on helping clients navigate issues like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I bring deep expertise in addressing women's issues, workplace challenges, and the unique emotional landscapes of midlife and young adulthood. My practice is rooted in understanding multicultural experiences and providing compassionate, nuanced support across diverse backgrounds. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, overcome isolation, and rediscover life purpose. I'm particularly skilled at supporting individuals through difficult experiences like divorce, caregiver stress, chronic health challenges, and family dynamics. I believe in creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, heal from past wounds, and develop healthier patterns of thinking and relating. My goal is to empower you to build resilience, find meaning, and create positive change in your life.

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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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Marlene Glenn

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 143365
Stress, AnxietyIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. 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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Lizette Garcia

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 148924
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I truly hold a passion for connecting with others in finding their identities, overcome their struggles, and process their experiences. Do you currently have a goal to increase self-awareness for better understanding of yourself? Do you experience intense emotions that feel difficult to manage on your own? Does it feel like you have lost control and want to learn how to regain control again? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I would love to speak with you and process how I can help. My areas of experience/interest include eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and trauma. As I have explored various therapeutic techniques, I have come to find I work best through the psychodynamic lens. I am a very curious therapist and like to explore where behaviors & struggles stem from for true understanding and healing of each unique individual. You do not have to have a mental diagnosis to be a client for psychotherapy. Therapy is for anyone who is willing to explore and has the motivation for change. You deserve the opportunity to invest in yourself for your overall wellbeing and improvement in the quality of your life. I would to speak with you to determine if I am the right fit for you.

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Jaquita Green

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 128542
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
3 years of experience

As a licensed therapist serving California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients through challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I bring a culturally responsive approach, particularly attuned to the experiences of women, young adults, and multicultural communities. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, overcome social anxiety, and heal from experiences of isolation and shame. I understand the profound impact of life transitions, workplace stress, and interpersonal dynamics. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a compassionate, affirming space where clients can explore their unique stories and strengths. With a deep commitment to holistic healing, I support individuals through diverse experiences—from relationship challenges and family conflicts to personal transformation and purpose-finding. My approach honors each client's individual journey, recognizing the courage it takes to seek support and create meaningful change.

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Michael Uthoff

Offering therapy in California
License: CA Psychologist 27619
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
10 years of experience

You deserve to live the highest quality of life you can. Often times we try to heal from both emotional and mental pain by seeking out external factors that are rarely in our control only to see minimally lasting results. My work with you would focus on learning to look inwardly for growth and healing. Understanding how your body and mind respond to emotional experiences can help you be in control regardless of the external factors. You have everything you need to heal; you are not "broken" nor do you need "fixing" sometimes we simply get lost along the way. I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, intimacy related issues, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Jonathan Yustman

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 7398
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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Javier Gonzalez

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 101922
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflicts
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.

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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