Mental health services can specifically treat individuals who are recovering from childhood trauma, are experiencing mental illnesses like eating disorders, or are struggling with family crisis. But therapy isn’t limited to treatment. Most of us can benefit from therapy at some point in our lives, whether for stress management support, strengthening relationships, or pursuing self-awareness. 

When it comes to finding a therapist, Lakewood, CA may offer a wider variety than many surrounding rural or suburban areas, but finding the right therapist can be more complicated than reaching out to local mental health clinics. Like traditional medicine, psychology has a great deal of specialization, and different therapeutic approaches can be more or less effective depending on what challenge is being addressed. A licensed marriage/family therapist may be best for family conflict, but not really right for managing depression. Recovery treatment centers can be ideal for addiction, but aren’t designed for supporting people experiencing OCD. What you need may not necessarily be available in your area. 

This is where online therapy can help. BetterHelp offers appointments with online-based mental health professionals in the Lakewood area with expertise in a wide range of therapies, and with experience working with diverse populations. Whether you are looking for a licensed psychologist, a marriage/family therapist, or a social worker, you can find what you need. Fill out an online questionnaire and BetterHelp will match you with the provider that best meets your needs. And because clients succeed best with a strong therapeutic rapport, if you need to change therapists you can do so at no additional cost. 

Online therapy can be a convenient option as well. Online sessions fit easily into any schedule, and with video chat, phone, and text messaging you can meet with your therapist from the comfort of your own home. If you have been thinking about therapy for any reason, whether to address mental health challenges, or to start a mindfulness focus in your life, check out the Lakewood-based online therapists listed below to find out more. 

Read more
Psychologist Alexander Yoo providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Alexander Yoo

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 102886
Mental Wellness Specialties: LGBTTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changesCoaching
26 years offering treatment

Hello! You may not know me yet, but I'm looking forward to getting to know you. I use a change-oriented approach with a bent toward meaning-making and "the big questions" of life. I don't think BetterHelp really has the tools to do in-depth therapy work. Therefore, I tend to see my role here as more of a life coach. So for example, on any given day, would you like me to 1) listen and/or 2) give advice/feedback/opinions. It depends on what you’re needing in the moment. I'd like for you to get some relief and clarity in your life. Whatever your goals, or the life transitions you want to better understand, I can help you, regardless of your culture, your background, your politics, philosophy, or past. (Note: I am also an ordained clergyperson with a Master of Divinity MDiv degree, and a hospice chaplain. Faith/religion/spirituality or no, if you want to integrate that into our talks, great. If not, also great. I'm well-versed in many religions and philosophical approaches to existence, including "alternative" belief systems.) Talk soon, Alexander Yoo, MDiv, MA, LMFT

Psychologist Julia Davis providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Julia Davis

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 91207, MI LMFT 4101006762
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
13 years offering treatment

Welcome to my page! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in Michigan, California, Florida and Washington with a decade of experience assisting others to relieve distress and promote and restore positive relationships. I have worked with adults and children helping them overcome anxious thoughts and behaviors, process past experiences, and support healthy living. Being supportive of healthy choices and remaining true to oneself is a process therapy can nurture. Creating meaningful connections and a more satisfying life experience can be achieved with healthy conversation that gives you permission to be yourself and connect with others authentically. With an open mind and a non-judgmental treatment approach, we create the space to collaboratively meet your goals. I am passionate about secure attachment, nonviolent communication, the connection between boundaries and anxiety, speaking up and reducing emotional paralysis and communication skills to reduce anxiety. Life in all its processes and nuances is unique for each of us. I am here to help, guide, listen and support you in meeting your goals. Together we can identify these and explore ways to meet them.

Psychologist Dr. Frederick  Smoot providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Dr. Frederick Smoot

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 12959
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years offering treatment

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (CA #12959) with over 15 years of experience counseling/ accompanying persons through difficult parts of their life-journeys. I have worked with a wide range of concerns including Isolation. loneliness, fearfulness, anxiety, intimacy/relationship issues, parenting and career challenges, addiction, physical and emotional abuse and life transitions. My counseling style is warm, curious and appropriately truth-telling.. I treat others with respect and consistent presence. I work to sustain and shame-free context that empowers persons to (re)claim their lies and future with dignity. I am an accompanist, using therapeutic tools gathered from several clinical approaches. I am relational, client centered, mindful, and strategic. I believe that direction and goals for therapy are shaped together with the client. We will tailor a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Your willingness to reach out for support shows your courage and desire for a better future. I encourage you to take this step, accompanied and supported I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Margaret Auguste providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Margaret Auguste

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 153246, NJ LMFT 37FI00183800
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

I am a family and marriage counselor licensed in New Jersey with over 10 years of experience working as an individual, family, and marriage counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines solution-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and acceptance and commitment counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Jeanette Merchant providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Jeanette Merchant

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 36010, OR LMFT T1882
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
27 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California and Oregon with 27 years of professional work experience. 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!

Psychologist Keith Chilton providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Keith Chilton

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT LMFT118833
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years offering treatment

I am a family and marriage therapist licensed in California with over 25 years of experience as a caring witness working with youth, adults, couples, and families to help them increase their ability to balance personal motivations with social and relationship challenges. As a passionate and curious learner, I embrace a "each one teach one" and "it takes a village" counseling style. I have had the honor and blessing of a few caring witnesses in my life. I pledge my life's work to pass on the attentive sense of care that was instilled in me. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are ready to take that step toward change, I am ready to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Susan DeHaan providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Susan DeHaan

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW LCSW9534, NV LCSW 5607-C
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years offering treatment

I'm a LIcensed Clinical Social Worker with over thirty years experience working in a variety of counseling settings and hospitals with adults, children and families who are experiencing a wide range of issues and problems. During our first meeting, you can expect a brief review of information you've already provided about your personal history and current circumstances and to discuss your reasons for seeking counseling along with the goals you'd like to achieve (if known). Based on the information you provide, we'll develope an agreed upon strategy for obtaining these goals. In addtion, most of the time, at the end of our first meeting, I can give you an estimate of the number of meetings it will take to get there. I have Bachelor's Degress in Psychology and Sociology and a Master's Degree in Social Work. I have taught in my profession at the undergraduate and graduate levels, am an approved Clinical Intern Supervisor and have been a fully licensed clinician for decades. I strive to assist all those who work with me in resolving the issues that have brought them to counseling to ensure they feel benefited by the experience.

Psychologist Dorothy Holley providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Dorothy Holley

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW LCSW122171, FL LCSW SW6320
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuse
30 years offering treatment

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!

Psychologist Dr. Virginia Christophe providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Dr. Virginia Christophe

Clinician
License Type(s): AZ LPC LPC-22925, CA LPCC 18211
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
36 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Natarajan Gowda providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Natarajan Gowda

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 24853
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, & depression. I also have experience working with 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.

Psychologist Dr. Paul Fernandez providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Dr. Paul Fernandez

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist 19972
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflicts
30 years offering treatment

Hello, and thank you for choosing BetterHelp for your therapy needs. I am Dr. Paul Fernandez. I have been a licensed therapist and psychologist for more than 30+ years. I have spent my career concentrating on providing mental health services to the Latino/Hispanic community in Southern California, with a special emphasis in substance abuse, addiction recovery, anxiety/stress, depression, and anger management. In my thirty years of experience providing mental health services, I have found that I match best with other members of the Spanish-speaking Latino community. I have tailored my mental health practice to provide therapy from a spiritual, Latino perspective that concentrates on the unique cultural issues faced by the Hispanic community. However, I am open and eager to work with anyone needing help and assistance. I try to provide a very non-judgmental, safe environment where you can feel secure in discussing any issues that you feel are most important to be addressed in your life. Hola y gracias por elegir BetterHelp para sus necesidades de terapia. Soy el Dr. Pablo Fernández. He sido terapeuta y psicólogo autorizado durante más de 30 años. He pasado mi carrera concentrándome en brindar servicios de salud mental a la comunidad latina/hispana en el sur de California, con especial énfasis en abuso de sustancias, recuperación de adicciones, ansiedad/estrés, depresión y manejo de la ira. En mis treinta años de experiencia brindando servicios de salud mental, he descubierto que coincido mejor con otros miembros de la comunidad latina de habla hispana. He adaptado mi práctica de salud mental para brindar terapia desde una perspectiva latina espiritual que se concentra en los problemas culturales únicos que enfrenta la comunidad hispana. Sin embargo, estoy abierto y dispuesto a trabajar con cualquiera que necesite ayuda y asistencia. Intento brindar un entorno seguro y sin prejuicios donde usted pueda sentirse seguro al discutir cualquier tema que considere más importante abordar en su vida.

Psychologist Cristina Dawes providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Cristina Dawes

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 45948
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoaching
25 years offering treatment

Hello and thanks for reaching out! I have been practicing in California with 25 years of work experience, of which 17 have been licensed. I specifically trained and have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, depression, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. 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!

Psychologist Susan Richey providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Susan Richey

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 49647
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in in California with over 10 years of experience working in clinical practice. I work with clients who experience a wide range of symptoms and concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, adult child issues, their own mature adult challenges, and retirement. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic 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 as an older adult and to take the steps needed for still more changes in our lives. If you are ready to take those steps, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Donice Holbrook providing different types of therapy in Lakewood

Donice Holbrook

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 25597
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist that provides specialty in anxiety management and depression. I bring over two decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding and addressing mental health concerns with empathy and professional expertise. I specialize in helping clients navigate a wide range of emotional experiences, including depression, anxiety, stress management, and self-esteem challenges. My therapeutic practice focuses on supporting individuals through significant life transitions, social anxieties, communication difficulties, and personal growth journeys. With a commitment to holistic healing, I offer a supportive environment that honors each client's unique experiences. My work spans diverse areas including women's issues, addiction recovery, family dynamics, and support for individuals facing chronic health challenges. My practice is grounded in a Christian-informed perspective, providing culturally sensitive care that respects individual beliefs and values. I am particularly passionate about supporting older adults and individuals seeking a compassionate, conservative therapeutic approach. I believe in empowering clients to discover their inner strength, develop healthy coping strategies, and create meaningful personal transformation.

Find a Therapist Near You in Lakewood , 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.

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 California, 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 me 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 Lakewood.

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 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.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Lakewood can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist