Finding a therapist in California can be challenging, even in major cities, when high costs, long wait times, or limited availability make in-person care difficult. Whether you live in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, or a smaller community, online therapy through BetterHelp offers statewide access to licensed mental health professionals without the need to commute. BetterHelp is one of the world’s largest online therapy platforms, with 30,000+ licensed therapists globally and more than 6 million people helped worldwide.

With BetterHelp, you can connect with a licensed California therapist from home at times that fit your schedule to work through concerns like anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, relationship challenges, and life transitions. The platform delivers proven results, with 72% of users experiencing a reduction in symptoms within 12 weeks, and a 4.9 out of 5 average session rating from over 1.7 million reviews. While insurance is not yet available in California, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model typically ranges from $70–$100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors like location, source, preferences, therapist availability and any applicable discounts or promotions that might apply. Learn more about future coverage on our insurance page.

Browse licensed therapists in California and find a match that works for your needs, schedule, and coverage.

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This is Chris (Christopher) McKillop's avatar and link to their profile

Chris (Christopher) McKillop

Offering therapy in California
License: NC LCMHC 10581, CA LPCC 17895
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepression
11 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California, Maine and North Carolina, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients understand and manage depression, anxiety, and stress, with a particular focus on anger management strategies. I create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their challenges and develop meaningful coping skills. My therapeutic style is grounded in respect for each person's unique journey, with a commitment to providing supportive, evidence-based guidance. Through collaborative and personalized treatment, I aim to empower clients to build resilience, gain emotional insight, and create positive change in their lives. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage, and I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, professionalism, and genuine care.

This is Dr. James Decker's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. James Decker

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 9715
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
45 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 45 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 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!

This is Richard Berg's avatar and link to their profile

Richard Berg

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 44229
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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 Lois Craig's avatar and link to their profile

Lois Craig

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 283
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Welcome and thank you for checking out my profile. I am available to work with an adult population, and as a licensed therapist, I am sensitive to the fact that sometimes people’s lives are not going the way they would like. And for some, they are not even sure why. This, and many other issues interfere with our self-satisfaction, happiness, sense of safety and our relationships. My experience lies with helping people to sort through their experiences and to understand where and how they can make needed changes. My primary approach to therapy is to use EMDR and somatic interventions with my clients gain awareness of what stands in their way of healing their traumas. My experience also includes working with anxiety and depression, OCD, DID , stress and behavioral issues along with a range of other problems.

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Eric Aldaco

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 116682
Self esteemCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

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.

This is Carlton Hemphill's avatar and link to their profile

Carlton Hemphill

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC LPCC21526, AZ LPC LPC-24496
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemCoachingADHD
7 years of experience

I'm a licensed therapist specializing in adults who have spent most of their lives feeling like they think, feel, or exist differently than everyone around them and never quite had the language for why. I work primarily with ADHD, OCD, autism, and anxiety, and I have a particular focus on LGBTQ+ and BIPOC men navigating identity, relationships, and mental health on their own terms. My approach is collaborative, direct, and insight-driven. I'm not going to pathologize how your brain works or treat your identity as something to work around. The goal is understanding yourself clearly enough that you find confidence in your truth.

This is Oksana Shiell's avatar and link to their profile

Oksana Shiell

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 50698, AR LMFT M2402001
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am a California-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, practicing since 2011 and serving as a clinical supervisor since 2017. I bring many years of experience—both pre-licensed and post-licensed—working with teens and supporting individuals and families through a variety of challenges. My areas of focus include stress and anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I approach therapy with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I believe in tailoring our conversations and treatment plan to fit your unique needs and goals. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and balanced life takes courage. I'm here to support you every step of the way.

This is Ashby "Brooks" Larsen's avatar and link to their profile

Ashby "Brooks" Larsen

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 12724, UT LCSW 11035932-3501
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
58 years of experience

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.

This is Reginald Bruno's avatar and link to their profile

Reginald Bruno

Offering therapy in California
License: NY LCSW 098104, CA LCSW 130680
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
28 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida. Virginia, Washington DC, Oregon, and New York with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping adult clients cope with and manage stress and anxiety, and a range of many other co-occurring disorders. I have helped clients coping with addictions, grief and loss, improving motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I have a good working and interactive experience with my clients to create an open and safe environment where their 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.

This is Daniel Marshall's avatar and link to their profile

Daniel Marshall

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW LCSW123364
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients explore self-love, address communication challenges, and heal from experiences of isolation, trauma, and social anxiety. With a deep commitment to understanding intersectional experiences, I provide culturally responsive care that honors diverse identities and lived experiences. My approach is particularly attuned to the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, men, and those confronting multicultural concerns. I draw from evidence-based practices to help clients develop resilience, process challenging emotions, and cultivate meaningful connections. Whether you're struggling with life transitions, relationship dynamics, or personal growth, I offer a compassionate, affirming space to explore your journey. My therapeutic work is grounded in understanding the profound impact of identity, systemic challenges, and personal history. I'm dedicated to supporting clients as they build self-understanding, challenge internalized narratives, and move toward more authentic, empowered lives.

This is Nelson Rosario's avatar and link to their profile

Nelson Rosario

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 76390
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, 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.

This is Zoya Raysberg-Bellman's avatar and link to their profile

Zoya Raysberg-Bellman

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 47371
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & 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. I value my clients' time and show up for appointments. I set time aside for my clients and I'm present. I ask the same from my clients. I understand that things can come up... appointments, work, friends... I get it. Still, keeping appointments is important. When I schedule a time for someone, it's a time I can't give to someone else. I can only keep someone's time available for them if they can be present as scheduled. If you can absolutely commit to keeping our appointments, then we can keep having them. Communication is really important and I encourage people to reach out if they have a (non-emergency) question or concern or something to share. Also, if you are needing to cancel or reschedule a scheduled appointment, I ask that you also please send a quick message. I look forward to working with you and supporting you in working through challenges to help you get to a better place.

This is Ryan Jordan's avatar and link to their profile

Ryan Jordan

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 17537
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
4 years of experience

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, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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 Hyun Lee's avatar and link to their profile

Hyun Lee

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 146052
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesSelf esteem
11 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex personal challenges. My practice centers on helping clients explore self-love, life purpose, and interpersonal dynamics with compassion and cultural sensitivity. I have extensive experience addressing relationship issues, family conflicts, social anxiety, and attachment challenges. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique journey, particularly for young adults, multicultural communities, and individuals exploring identity and personal growth. I offer a warm, affirming therapeutic space that honors diverse experiences and supports clients through transitions, relationship dynamics, and personal development. Fluent in both English and Korean, I bring a nuanced, multicultural perspective to my practice. My therapeutic style emphasizes collaborative exploration, helping clients build self-esteem, navigate complex emotions, and develop meaningful strategies for personal transformation. 캘리포니아 공인 치료사로서, 저는 개인이 복잡한 삶의 도전을 헤쳐 나가도록 돕는 데 전문성을 가지고 있습니다. 제 치료는 자기 사랑, 삶의 목적, 그리고 관계 역동성을 공감과 문화적 민감성을 가지고 탐색하도록 지원하는 데 초점을 둡니다. 관계 문제, 가족 갈등, 사회불안, 애착 문제 등 다양한 영역에서 풍부한 임상 경험을 가지고 있습니다. 저의 치료적 접근 방식은 각 개인의 독특한 여정을 깊이 이해하는 데 뿌리를 두고 있습니다. 특히 청년층, 다문화 커뮤니티, 그리고 정체성과 개인적 성장을 탐색하는 내담자들을 주로 돕고 있습니다. 저는 따뜻하고 지지적인 치료 공간을 제공하여 다양한 삶의 경험을 존중하고, 관계의 변화나 인생의 전환기, 개인의 성장 과정을 함께 동행합니다. 영어와 한국어에 모두 능통한 저는 다문화적 시각을 섬세하게 통합하여 치료에 반영합니다. 제 치료 스타일은 협력적 탐색을 중심으로 하며, 내담자가 자기 존중감을 회복하고 복잡한 감정을 다루며, 개인적 변화를 위한 의미 있는 전략을 세워가 되도록 돕습니다.

Find Therapy Near You in 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.

With a population of 32,349,851, 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 San Joaquin, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Modoc, Riverside, Madera, Alameda, Contra Costa, Mendocino, Humboldt, Orange, Sierra, Solano, Tulare, Plumas, Marin, San Diego, Alpine, Placer, Nevada, Calaveras, Santa Clara, Amador, Napa, Santa Cruz, Shasta, Sacramento, Colusa, Kings, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Glenn, Kern, Mono, San Mateo, Merced, Fresno, El Dorado, Santa Barbara, Butte, Tehama, Lassen, Trinity, Tuolumne, Inyo, Monterey, Sonoma, Imperial, Mariposa, Yuba, Stanislaus, Siskiyou, Ventura, Yolo, Lake, Del Norte, Sutter, San Francisco, 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 you 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 San Joaquin, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Modoc, Riverside, Madera, Alameda, Contra Costa, Mendocino, Humboldt, Orange, Sierra, Solano, Tulare, Plumas, Marin, San Diego, Alpine, Placer, Nevada, Calaveras, Santa Clara, Amador, Napa, Santa Cruz, Shasta, Sacramento, Colusa, Kings, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Glenn, Kern, Mono, San Mateo, Merced, Fresno, El Dorado, Santa Barbara, Butte, Tehama, Lassen, Trinity, Tuolumne, Inyo, Monterey, Sonoma, Imperial, Mariposa, Yuba, Stanislaus, Siskiyou, Ventura, Yolo, Lake, Del Norte, Sutter, San Francisco.

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 for online therapy 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.

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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