Looking for a therapist? Palo Alto, CA has a growing community of mental health professionals. But why limit your search to the Bay Area?

With BetterHelp, you can look beyond Palo Alto County and find the right therapist for you—no matter where in California they are based. 

BetterHelp is home to thousands of clinical psychologists, licensed professional clinical counselors (LPCC), clinical social workers (LCSW), and licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT) representing the full spectrum of mental health services. 

Find the support you’re looking for—no matter where in California your therapist is based. 

Whether you’re seeking traditional talk therapy for mood disorders, evidence-based trauma therapies like EMDR, or simply a supportive space in which to work towards personal growth, BetterHelp can connect you with a provider offering the type of therapy you’re looking for. 

Our smart matching system will pair you with a provider who has the background and clinical expertise to help you. And because we know it can take time to find the right fit, we make it easy to switch therapists at any time. 

In weekly phone, chat, or video therapy sessions, you and your therapist can work together to explore your concerns, develop coping strategies, and set personal goals aimed at positive growth and change. From short-term therapy for navigating a difficult season to ongoing support for mental health maintenance, BetterHelp can be your home for healing. 

Your membership includes access to weekly group therapy, digital therapy worksheets, educational webinars and more, meaning you can make progress faster and get the most out of your mental health investment.

When you feel ready, you can get started by taking a short mental health questionnaire. We’ll match you with a therapist offering the services you’re looking for, and you’ll be able to start scheduling online sessions within 48 hours. With BetterHelp, healing can begin today.

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Psychologist Cherri Castellon providing different types of therapy in Palo Alto

Cherri Castellon

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 20946, SC LISW-CP 8402
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California and South Carolina. I have 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & 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. 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 Carlos Velasco providing different types of therapy in Palo Alto

Carlos Velasco

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 5800
Mental Wellness Specialties: Family conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
14 years offering treatment

Life moves fast, and major transitions whether in your career, relationships, or personal identity often bring unexpected stress, self-doubt, and anxiety. I work with adults who want to move past feeling overwhelmed and step into a more grounded, confident version of themselves. I view therapy as a dynamic partnership. My style is direct yet empathetic, providing a safe space to unpack complex challenges without judgment. Together, we will examine patterns that may no longer be serving you, strengthen communication and coping tools, and build a clear path forward. If you are ready to optimize your mental well-being, navigate a major shift, or simply gain fresh perspective, I am here to support your journey

Psychologist Rochelle  Smith providing different types of therapy in Palo Alto

Rochelle Smith

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 94178
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
12 years offering treatment

Hello, I am a Licensed family and marriage therapist licensed in California with over 11 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, Bipolar, ADHD and addiction. I have also helped many people who have experienced various types of childhood and adult trauma. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in labels or victim shaming. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, Client-Centered, psychodynamic and EMDR therapy. I will work to tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards 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 Barbara Morales-Rossi providing different types of therapy in Palo Alto

Barbara Morales-Rossi

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 113871
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
7 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I'm here to support individuals navigating emotional landscapes in life. My practice centers on helping clients address transitions that tend to increase depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and addiction while honoring their unique experiences and identities. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to therapy, with a deep commitment to understanding each person's individual journey. My work focuses on empowering clients to develop their own skill to navigate these transitions with improve communication, active life styles that can decrease symptoms that block quality of life rediscover their sense of purpose. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I support individuals through transitions such as workplace stress, grief and loss with moving, jobs, lifestyles, recovery, women's issues, and codependency. My therapeutic style emphasizes creating a supportive, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past wounds, and build resilience. I am dedicated to walking alongside my clients with empathy, respect, and genuine care, helping them transform challenging emotions like guilt and shame into opportunities for growth and self-understanding.

Psychologist Linda Granadino providing different types of therapy in Palo Alto

Linda Granadino

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 69793
Mental Wellness Specialties: Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
16 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. 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!

Psychologist Maria Ward providing different types of therapy in Palo Alto

Maria Ward

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 98143
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
13 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions with compassion and unconditional regard. I specialize in working with diverse populations, offering culturally responsive care that honors each person's unique experiences. My approach is deeply empathetic, focusing on areas such as self-love, communication, social connections, and personal growth. I'm particularly committed to supporting people of various backgrounds, with respect, compassion, self love, acceptance, validation which are universal traits. The journey of healing is for anyone who whishes to walk the path, I will be there for you, I am here to support you, meet you where you need me to meet you. My therapeutic style integrates evidence-based practices to help clients develop resilience, heal from past wounds, and cultivate meaningful life strategies. Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, relationship dynamics, or personal transformation, I'm dedicated to walking alongside, with genuine understanding and professional guidance. Never under estimate your own personal growth, value your unique qualities, I am here to support you with acceptance and unconditional regard and respect of your needs. I believe in creating a safe, affirming space where you can explore your experiences, validate your own reality, integrate experiences that might had been put to the side and reconnect with your inherent strengths. Together, we'll work collaboratively to support your emotional well-being and personal empowerment. Remember, I am here for you, this place is for you and you alone.

Psychologist Dr. Virginia Christophe providing different types of therapy in Palo Alto

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 Yu Tsun Tseng-Brown providing different types of therapy in Palo Alto

Yu Tsun Tseng-Brown

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 53180
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
26 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring over two decades of dedicated experience supporting individuals, couple, family through complex emotional landscapes. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the nuanced challenges of depression, anxiety, marital problems, trauma, grief, and anger management. I am certified in child abuse and home violence, parenting educator, play therapy, seek safety (intervention for substance abuse and trauma), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, managing and adapting program (treatment of depression, trauma, anxiety, and disruptive behavior) and CORES (crisis intervention). I specialize in creating compassionate, culturally-responsive therapeutic spaces that honor each client's unique journey. Drawing from extensive clinical expertise, I help individuals develop resilient coping strategies and meaningful pathways toward emotional healing and personal growth. My professional commitment is centered on providing empathetic, evidence-based support that respects your individual experiences and strengths. I believe in collaborative healing, where you are the expert of your own story, and I serve as a supportive guide in your transformative process.

Psychologist Ashby "Brooks" Larsen providing different types of therapy in Palo Alto

Ashby "Brooks" Larsen

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 12724, UT LCSW 11035932-3501
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
58 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Earl Barrios providing different types of therapy in Palo Alto

Earl Barrios

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 229
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
38 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 36 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Cristina Dawes providing different types of therapy in Palo Alto

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 Jamal Cameron providing different types of therapy in Palo Alto

Jamal Cameron

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 133473
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
11 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Mark Saverino providing different types of therapy in Palo Alto

Mark Saverino

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 11155
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
35 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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.

Psychologist Javier Gonzalez providing different types of therapy in Palo Alto

Javier Gonzalez

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 101922
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

I am a Hispanic Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California, originally from Mexico, and I am deeply committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of the Latino/Hispanic community. My therapeutic work is grounded in cultural understanding, respect, and lived experience. I specialize in helping individuals navigate relationship challenges, cope with stress and anxiety, and overcome struggles with addiction. Growing up in poverty and surrounded by the very real risks of gang involvement and community violence, I understand firsthand the complex pressures many in our community face. Through resilience, support, and education, I was able to forge a different path—becoming a U.S. citizen, completing my college education, and earning my master’s degree in social work. These experiences shape the way I practice therapy today: with authenticity, empathy, and a deep belief in each person’s capacity for healing and change. For many years, I have worked closely with Latino/Hispanic individuals and families, providing therapy from a culturally attuned perspective that honors our shared values, challenges, and strengths. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming space where clients feel understood—where they can explore their experiences openly and build healthier relationships with themselves, their partners, and their families. I bring real-world insight, professional training, and cultural connection to every session. Whether you’re struggling with addiction, stress, relationship conflict, or simply feeling stuck, I’m here to help you move forward with compassion and clarity.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Palo Alto, California

Finding a therapist near you in Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto.

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 Palo Alto, California

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Palo Alto and the surrounding CA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist