If you want to begin therapy, it can be challenging to know where to start. Barriers to treatment, like a lack of available providers or long commutes, can make finding in-person mental health care difficult. With an online platform like BetterHelp, you can meet with a provider in the comfort of your home at a time that fits your schedule.
While BetterHelp does not currently have providers treating children, the therapists on the platform have extensive experience working with adults using cognitive behavioral techniques and other treatment approaches. Teletherapy can help you learn how to manage the effects of mental health conditions like anxiety disorders or support you as you work to improve self-esteem or overcome past trauma. Plus, with so many therapists available on the platform, you can change providers at any time for no fee until you find one that suits your personal style.
Whether you need help with stress management or working through difficulties with a family member, starting therapy can help. If you’re looking for a therapist, Laguna Niguel, CA, has many online options available. The following providers offer online therapy in the San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Laguna Beach, or Dana Point area and can help you on your journey of personal growth.
Breanna "Bre" Spehn
Hi, I'm Bre (she/they), a licensed professional counselor serving clients in California and Oregon. I live in Joshua Tree, within the Mojave Desert, alongside my pup, Stella Blue. With over eight years of clinical experience—much of it in crisis settings—I specialize in supporting first responders, survivors of abuse, and anyone navigating the effects of trauma, chronic stress, or life's most challenging transitions. My therapeutic approach is grounded in humanistic principles and informed by somatic awareness, mindfulness, and deep presence. I believe healing begins within a safe, authentic relationship where you feel seen, heard, and accepted just as you are. Together, we'll explore your experiences with curiosity and compassion while working toward meaningful, lasting change. My training includes a Master of Arts in Contemplative Psychotherapy and Buddhist Psychology from Naropa University, as well as a 500-hour Holistic Yoga Teacher Training completed in India. These experiences have shaped the way I hold space for others by integrating mind, body, and heart into the therapeutic process. I also believe that being an effective therapist requires an ongoing commitment to my own growth. Through personal therapy, yoga, meditation, and continued learning, I strive to deepen my self-awareness and embody the compassion, humility, presence, and occasional humor that I hope to bring into our work together. Creating an inclusive and affirming space is central to my practice. I work from a social justice lens and welcome conversations about identity, culture, privilege, power, and the systems that shape our lived experiences. My goal is to cultivate a therapeutic relationship where every part of you feels respected, supported, and empowered. Whether you're seeking healing from trauma, greater self-understanding, or support through a difficult season of life, I'd be honored to walk alongside you. Together, we'll create a therapeutic space that is aligned with your unique needs as an individual.
Carol Johnson
I am licensed in California with 27 years of professional work experience. I enjoy counseling all ages with a wide variety of issues. Working with couples and others who are struggling in their relationships or lacking in motivation, confidence or self-esteem are also areas that I enjoy. My special area of expertise is grief and loss. This, after spending 20 years directing a bereavement program following the death of my young husband. I am also an Art therapist that enriches my work with those who are interested. Your own story has gifted you with 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!
Diana Bernhardy
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.
Eileen Maxwel
I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Eric Aldaco
I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I believe that you are the expert of your life journey 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 life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am a Christian therapist and my approach to therapy is from a biblical perspective. I look forward in meeting you and collaboratively engaging in a strength base therapeutic model in treatment.
Stacy Brown
I am licensed in Texas with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, eating disorders, & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Ashby "Brooks" Larsen
I am licensed in California and Utah with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Harriett Bay
I am licensed in California with 40 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 believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Shelia Marshall-Mclean
I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Dianna Johnson
I am licensed in California 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping 20 plus years as a certified addiction specialist. In addition, help with trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. 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.
Esteban Avila
I am licensed in California and have 13 years of professional experience. I have experience helping clients with LGBTQ+ issues, relationship issues, and coping with grief. I also have experience working with people who have overcome loss. I believe you are the expert on your own story and possess many strengths that will help you overcome challenges. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and happy life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Kyra Shapiro Gutierrez
As a licensed therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges, I bring compassion and expertise to my practice. My professional background focuses on helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, stress, parenting challenges, and self-esteem concerns. I understand that life transitions can be overwhelming, and I'm committed to providing a supportive, affirming space where you can explore your experiences and develop meaningful coping strategies. My approach is rooted in empathy and collaboration, recognizing that each person's journey is unique. I strive to create a welcoming environment where you can feel heard, validated, and empowered to make positive changes. Whether you're struggling with personal growth, relationship dynamics, or emotional well-being, I'm here to walk alongside you with genuine care and professional guidance. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to help you build resilience, enhance self-understanding, and develop practical tools to support your mental health and personal growth. I'm passionate about supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds and creating a therapeutic space that feels safe, respectful, and transformative.
Elena Balashova-Shamis
Dr. Elena Balashova-Shamis is a highly experienced, licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adults, and elderly. She is trained as a psychoanalyst and provides integrative, personalized treatments for her patients. She teaches at 5 local universities, including UCLA’s medical school and NPI. She is known for her presentations, publications, and dissertation advising.
Jalen prayer
My approach is centered on empathy, compassion, and collaboration. I work closely with my clients to understand their unique needs and goals and to develop individualized treatment plans tailored to their specific circumstances. You can expect to be met with kindness and compassion while we discuss and discover how we can work together to make your mental health goals a reality.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Laguna Niguel, California
Finding a therapist near you in Laguna Niguel, California starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In California, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across California, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In California, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in California
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in California
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across California, including residents in Laguna Niguel.
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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
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 discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Laguna Niguel, California
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Laguna Niguel and the surrounding CA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.