Ah, California. It’s home to LA, one of the biggest cities around. Many artistic people and aspiring actors come for their next big break. If you want to be famous, it requires a lot of motivation, which some people may be lacking if they are in poor mental health. 

Maybe you don’t want to be famous, but you should have strong mental health in order to accomplish your goals. Not only can a counselor improve your mental health, but they can create a map you can use to accomplish all your goals. 

 

This is Tina Phillips's avatar and link to their profile
California
BA, MA, LMFT
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Depression
Years of Experience: 31

Welcome to learning a little bit more about me. I attended undergraduate school at UCLA in Communication Studies and graduate school at Pepperdine University in Malibu California. I have been licensed for over 30 years and love helping people through life's challenges. I know how difficult it can be and you give your self a gift to reach out and seek help. I have worked with many different problems including self esteem issues, anxiety, depression and loneliness. I have helped people through divorce and child custody issues. I have 10 years of expertise workin...

This is Rika Lopez's avatar and link to their profile
California
LMFT
Specialties: Addictions, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 10

Hi, my name is Rika Lopez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience working with adults, couples, and families. I am currently a candidate for CSAT (Certified Sex Addiction Therapist) where I am learning tools and techniques to work with those who struggle with compulsive and repetitive behaviors such as pornography addiction, infidelity, "hook up" apps, and other sexually impulsive patterns. Not only do I work with individuals who struggle with these sexually acting out behaviors but also partners who have been betrayed or...

This is Allyson Klein's avatar and link to their profile
California
LCSW
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Eating disorders, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 25

My name is Allyson Klein, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and have over 20 years of experience working as a therapist in the mental health field. I earned my BA degree in Psychology and Sociology from Brandeis University and my MSW degree from the University of California Berkeley, and I have worked in many different settings, providing care to people in need. My passion is to connect with people who may be struggling in their lives and help them work towards achieving their goals. I approach my clients with compassion and a non-judgmental sta...

This is Michael Stample's avatar and link to their profile
California
PhD,LMFT
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, LGBT, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Years of Experience: 22

Having been active as a therapist since the 90s, both in private practice and on staff with Kaiser Permanente for 13 years, I sometimes imagine I've seen "everything." Fortunately, the next person I see will often prove me wrong. The areas of my major experience and competence include Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar); Anxiety in all its forms; OCD; Chronic pain management; Anger management, Sexual concerns, including LGBTQ and transgender problems; couples and families; and others. I'm a PhD in Marital & Family therapy (1997), and my background includes ca...

This is Dr. Donna Stapp's avatar and link to their profile
California
PhD,MFT
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 30

I have been trusted with a multifaceted life. I have lived all over the country and have found people have fundamental values that are universal. My graduate degree in philosophy has strengthen my love of the human condition. I have been in therapy as a client for years. I would not go to a therapist that has not worked the sometimes painful process themselves. My first question is most often "What do you want to work on today?" This is the question that made me tremble with anticipation and forced me to be concise. Get ready to quiver and laugh. I love to help my...

This is Dr. Carol Carrell's avatar and link to their profile
California
NMD, LMFT
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, LGBT, Depression, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 30

I have been a counselor for 30 years with experience in treating clients from 18 months to 98 years. As a professor and supervisor I utilize a variety of modalities and believe that each client is special and unique. One approach does not fit all. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, first responders, professionals, dealing with illness and care giver fatigue, chronic pain, trasuma, abuse and addiction. I have worked with children that have faced difficult health challenges that have not only affected them but their family as well. In addition ...

This is Dr. Erwin Munoz's avatar and link to their profile
California
Psy.D, LCSW
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, LGBT, Grief, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 16

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I am trained and experienced working in the psychotherapeutic modalities in Grief and Loss, Motivational Interviewing, Seeking Safety, Somatic Psychotherapy, Psychodynamic therapy, LGBTQ issues, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also trained as a vocational nurse, thus am familiar with medication and dietary interactions that may influence people's thoughts and moods. I've worked with a variety of clients experiencing daily life challenges and transitions that may overwhelm ...

This is Laura Strickland's avatar and link to their profile
California
Psy.D.
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Depression
Years of Experience: 3

Thank you for sharing information about yourself. I'm so happy you reached out for help. My name is Laura Strickland, a licensed psychologist. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have worked with individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, and a variety of mood disorders. I use an empathetic, non-judgemental, trauma-informed, and mindful approach to therapy. Each person has individualized needs; I work with the individual to develop a treatment plan that is unique to them. You can learn more about my background, experience, and...

This is David Di Sano's avatar and link to their profile
California
MA,LMFT
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Career difficulties, Depression, Coping with life changes, Coaching
Years of Experience: 13

Welcome to taking the first steps towards self-improvement! Life is often challenging and finding a well matched clinician is tough. I am very person centered in my approach, typically addressing the psyche objectively by respecting your lived experience. In practice we work to develop a deeper connection with your unconscious, through reflection on thoughts, fantasies, and dreams. It is in analysis of the psyche, that we can uncover a greater awareness of our process and purpose to begin to witness and realize grace and our particular calling. As a Jungian A...

This is Joe Whitcomb's avatar and link to their profile
California
LMFT
Specialties: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Intimacy-related issues, Anger management
Years of Experience: 16

I am originally from Santa Monica and San Diego, California and moved to Kyiv, Ukraine last June 2021 to research and develop trauma-informed mixed reality to treat trauma and relationships in the metaverse with military, veterans, first responders and trauma survivors and then...the war happened and have remained to continue trauma-informed humanitarian efforts. This is my passion and the work I have researched. So, when you work with me I will be working with you from Kyiv, Ukraine. I provide trauma-informed relationship psychotherapy methods and models ...

This is Patricia "Patti" Mills's avatar and link to their profile
California
LMFT 90335,Master degree in psychology ,BA degree in organizational behavior
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Years of Experience: 5

Relationships*Mindfulness Welcome to my Psychotherapy practice. This is where growth and personal healing can really happen. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist committed to helping individuals learn how to build healthier relationships and achieve their life goals. I believe developing a trusting relationship is essential to create change. My approach is strength based and solution focused. I use an eclectic approach in therapy which may include Client centered, attachment, EMDR, CBT, with individuals to obtain their goals and have a successful therapeu...

This is Debra Pintel Steiner's avatar and link to their profile
California
LCSW
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 10

I am a retired social worker formerly with Alameda County Child Protective Services. I provided family counseling to families in the child welfare system. I have also provided individual therapy for adults with mental health and chronic physical health issues. Currently I provide individual therapy for adults with depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I seek to develop a trusting relationship with my clients so that they can air their emotions and concerns, and begin to see life from a new perspective.

This is Dawniel Page's avatar and link to their profile
California
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Self esteem, Coping with life changes, Coaching, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 16

I am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, coping with life changes, & executive and professional coaching. 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 Yara Castillo's avatar and link to their profile
California
MEd,LPC
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Anger management, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Years of Experience: 4

My name is Yara Castillo. I graduated with a BA in Psychology and an MEd in Counseling from the University of Houston. I practice from a client-centered approach. I feel like clients come to therapy to feel understood, listened to, and form a connection with another person. I also understand that people have strengths and can be empowered to make their own decisions for themselves. I feel as if people are in control of their lives and can make the best decisions for themselves, but much of that strength and courage to make those decisions has been pushed down by t...

This is Brandy Walker's avatar and link to their profile
California
LCSW,LMSW,MSW
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Depression
Years of Experience: 9

I am an LCSW in the state of California and Georgia. I have been in the field for over 15 years. I work with individuals, couples and families. I have worked with a wide range of clients such as: LGBTQ, depression, stress, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, physical trauma, emotional abuse, relationship problems, family conflicts, intimacy related issues, parenting problems, anger management and the like. Life is an individual journey with many different experiences. Sometimes those experiences can lead to turmoil, tragedy, trauma and pain. The pain can feel debilit...

This is Amy Bromelow's avatar and link to their profile
California
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Parenting issues, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 4

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, parenting issues, & 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.

This is Cynthia Villacres's avatar and link to their profile
California
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 5

Hello, if you are coping with life changes, stress, anxiety, motivation, self-esteem and depression, I think I can help. I'm experienced at helping people cope, grow and even thrive despite often difficult circumstances. I can help you with identifying what's getting in the way of your moving toward your goals, and helping you problem-solve those barriers. I'd like to meet you!

This is Andrea Blatchley's avatar and link to their profile
California
MA,MFT
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Parenting issues, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 15

I am licensed in California with almost 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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.

This is Kayla Haberern's avatar and link to their profile
California
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Parenting issues, ADHD
Years of Experience: 12

Kayla is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a Registered Dance/Movement Therapist with more than 2 decades of creative and leadership experience and many years of clinical therapy experience working with all ages and many different mental health struggles and diagnoses. She specializes in working with infants and children ages 0-8, families, and women who are pregnant or have postpartum mental health struggles. The mental health struggles that Kayla focuses on are Autism, ADHD, Developmental delays, Psychosomatic issues, Anxiety, Depression, Mental hea...

This is Cory O’Neal's avatar and link to their profile
California
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Parenting issues
Years of Experience: 5

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients (teens 13-20, adults and couples) with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.

How Can Therapists In California Support You?

therapist in California 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 California, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for a licensed therapist in California 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 does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why Are Many Residents In The State Of California Working With A Licensed Counselor?

The reason for reaching out to a therapist can be a personal experience for each person. Many individuals work with a therapist for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a specific county in California, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

A few topics that therapists in California may support clients with can include:

  • 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 offers potential access to over 30,000 providers, including those listed above.

Emergency Services

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

·      National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

·      National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

·      Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

·      Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.

·      Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386 

·      SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357

·      National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)

·      Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature

·      National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293) 

·      Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19

·      Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Some commonly asked questions can be found 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.

How Do I Know If I Should Get A Therapist?

Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. Although therapists often support people with mental health conditions, 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 therapist 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 therapists provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions in California can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to a therapist's office.

Does Insurance Cover Therapy?

Different counseling services can vary in cost. Private practice 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 Safe?

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.