Meeting with a therapist can be helpful for navigating life’s challenges and learning various tools to live a more fulfilling life. Therapists can offer you expert support, care, and treatment, guiding you towards self discovery and personal growth. Each therapist goes through intensive training, equipping them to care for an individuals unique needs.

If you’re based in San Clemente, CA, you can access specialized therapists online, whether you need diagnosis and treatment from a therapist whose an expert in eating disorders, or want cognitive-behavioral therapy for anger management. Dependant on your personal needs, specialized therapists can create a tailored approach to therapy, leading to better health outcomes and a more fulfilling life.

Online therapy gives individuals, their families, and the wider a community a chance to prioritize their mental health, regardless of financial constraints, geographical barriers, and lack of free time. It is an affordable option with flexible scheduling, allowing you to change appointments to fit your day-to-day needs, whether you need to speak with a therapist after picking up your children from school, or commuting home from your San Clemente office.

If you’d like to arrange your first appointment with a therapist, San Clemente, CA, and surrounding areas such as Newport Beach, Laguna Niguel and Mission Viejo, have a variety of online options. Below you can review some of the therapists that offer quality online services in the area, and book a consultation if any of them appeal to your unique needs. 

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Psychologist Melissa Macgown providing different types of therapy in San Clemente

Melissa Macgown

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 80862
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
20 years offering treatment

Hello! My name is Melissa and I love what I do! Counseling people is my life's work and I've been doing it 14 years. Whatever it is you are going through, I can assure you, I have worked with someone who has dealt with something similar. I specialize in treating addiction issues, as I've worked in 5 different in-patient drug and alcohol treatment centers/rehabs in my career. Though I have years of professional experience working with an array of all kinds of issues and different populations. I greatly enjoy working with individuals and families. I also have several years experience working with teens, including those who have grown up in the system, been abused, and at high-risk, or with behavioral or learning problems. Clients feedback is often reported to me as: I am "easy to talk to," "friendly," and "down to earth." I've also been told I am helpful and a "good listener;" that is important to me. I am mostly solution-focused, meaning...I want to understand the problem, but then want to get into the tough work of finding solutions as soon as possible. As a therapist, I have a lot of empathy, am caring, and invested in improving your life circumstances. I am non-judgmental and believe that no matter how similar or different we may be, we can work together and develop a rapport. We can start right away, opening lines of communication so I can understand where you are coming from and help in anyway I can. My hope is to develop a warm, and trusting relationship in which you feel comfortable, and heard. One of my favorite things to hear as a therapist from a client is, "exactly," because I know we are on the same page, and I smile when a client says after session, " I feel much better." That is my aspiration, to help, and get to know you. Please understand that this is not just a job for me. I am genuinely here for you! Thank you for taking the time to read my profile and learn more about me as a professional.

Psychologist Dorothy Pedro providing different types of therapy in San Clemente

Dorothy Pedro

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 26417, AZ LCSW 1315
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsGriefParenting issuesCompassion fatigue
25 years offering treatment

My name is Dorothy: I have been a counselor /therapist for over 40 years. Twenty-Five years of my career has been in acute care hospitals. I dealt daily with, grief trauma, suicide and life changing illnesses. My critical thinking skills are finely tuned to help a patient or client process and take care of their family and selves at the most tragic times in their lives. Within these tragic situations, I have been able to assist and help clients find a path to go forward. In less stressful situations, I have used motivational interviewing to help a client within very chaotic situations not only move forward, but also to create goals for their lives and plans to achieve those goals. I have worked with Military families and children . I have worked for 2 years in a school-based homeless program providing meals, counseling, home visits and resources for families facing many challenges. I have coordinated with schools, courts and child protective services to help families remain together and focused on what they need to do to keep their families together in the most difficult of times. I have provided couples counseling, family counseling and groups. I have taught parenting skills while learning the most useful lessons from the parents themselves. Often my primary tool for family intervention is Systems theory. This theory is based on family and individual strengths. It basically theorizes that if a direct approach to change in a family doesn't work then another less obvious problem solving approach might work. Or that working on a positive change in another part of a client's world, might positively impact what can the desired change through a less direct route. This in turn may cause a ripple effect of other that impacts the entire family in a positive yet productive way. This method of intervention recognizes that families ultimately provide love and care as their roots of growth and nurture in a family. I trust the family process to produce the best results for a family. I work hard to help you or your family in any compassionate way that I can while always keeping in focus the safety and well being of the family and the children. I always expect and realize that families are working even harder at these goals than I am. We are a team . Sometimes only brief supportive interventions are helpful Other times, depending upon where the family is in its process, more intense interventions are appropriate. My intent in any dynamic is to be of service to you and your family. I listen to the verbal, spiritual energy of the family and attempt to participate in the family "flow " and help to continue to guide it in a positive direction. Often these goals are very do-able. If I can't be helpful, I will certainly guide your family to someone who can be helpful. I look forward to working with you as much as you may need. Thank you.

Psychologist Minerva Guzman providing different types of therapy in San Clemente

Minerva Guzman

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 111901
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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!

Psychologist Lindsay Parkinson providing different types of therapy in San Clemente

Lindsay Parkinson

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 106872
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years offering treatment

I have a unique experience in a variety of settings; day & residential programs, hospital & crisis settings, as well as private practice. I’ve volunteered in several Countries, offering art & talk therapy individually, in groups, and gained a healthy perspective about culture, gender dynamics, sexual orientation, and non binary identities. I believe that everyone should have reliable, affordable & effective care. Care being the main objective, we all deserve the right to non-biased, non-judgmental service. You want to know you’re being understood and are treated with compassion, especially in times of challenge & distress. I’ve helped my clients with depression and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & major life transitions. 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 Willie Denard providing different types of therapy in San Clemente

Willie Denard

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 24259
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

I have been a Licensed Clinical Social worker and Mental Health Therapist in the State of California with over 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse and depression, as well as other life issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths and values 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 Stacy Brown providing different types of therapy in San Clemente

Stacy Brown

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC LPCC20476, TX LPC 69278
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsEating disordersAnger managementADHD
16 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist William Wheaton providing different types of therapy in San Clemente

William Wheaton

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 132702, FL LCSW SW20856
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years offering treatment

I have been clinically licensed approaching seven years in Georgia and Florida. I have been in the Social Work profession for twenty-three years. Throughout that time I have worked with diverse as well as marginalized populations at various phases of life. I have clinical experience with Active Duty Military, Veterans, Healthcare Professionals, and the General Public. I am veteran, as well as former Law Enforcement Officer. I have used every opportunity to be a resource to my community. My approach is simple. Strength based, trauma informed, and goal oriented. I have been away from Telehealth for a few years working directly in my community. I look forward to the opportunity to now support you along this journey.

Psychologist Sandra West providing different types of therapy in San Clemente

Sandra West

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 41583
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping 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 and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Pauline Padrul providing different types of therapy in San Clemente

Pauline Padrul

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 25630
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California with over twenty years of professional work experience in behavioral health treatment. I also have a Master's degree in Public Health with a strong interest in behavioral epidemiology. I have worked with clients who typically present with stress and anxiety, eating disorders, motivation, self esteem issues & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths with which to overcome challenges and build resilience.

Psychologist Mark Phelan providing different types of therapy in San Clemente

Mark Phelan

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 115079
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I am a Veteran and familiar with PTSD and military life challenges. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Natarajan Gowda providing different types of therapy in San Clemente

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 Cristina Dawes providing different types of therapy in San Clemente

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 Janette Brown providing different types of therapy in San Clemente

Janette Brown

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 14507, WA LMFT LF 00001173
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
51 years offering treatment

Midwest trained, and licensed in California & Washington, I have spent 50 years in the field of counseling & supervisory education. Now, in retirement, I offer a limited number of consultations. Still, I want to continue supporting people who are actively engaged in improving their relationships & addressing life changes. My style is interactive with a bit of humor; & I don't believe in stigmatizing labels, nor do I encourage diagnostic ones. (I find them misused & often reductionistic, which is not helpful.) It takes courage to seek joy in life and step forward into change. And if you are wanting to do that, I am very glad to facilitate your efforts. PS I do not keep notes; so what is said is completely confidential. My intake sessions (at just 20-30 minutes) are for the purpose of checking mutual chemistry & our ability to work well together. By letting me know immediately if you might prefer a different therapist, I can help make that happen sooner than later; and session success has a lot to do with ease of communication, so do be picky. Again, I have only limited session time-slots. All are midday, on Tuesdays or Thursdays, & you will need to choose the same hour each week, to avoid booking someone else’s session time. Booking your time, 3 sessions forward will prevent that from happening. [PS: Generally, ‘short term' counseling is roughly 12 sessions, affording time to make good insights & progress.] I invite your questions, going forward. And my best wishes on your personal growth path. I look forward to meeting you!

Psychologist Taylor Holmes providing different types of therapy in San Clemente

Taylor Holmes

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 152559
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionADHD
4 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, concentration, & memory. I also have experience working with focus. 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. 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.

Find a Therapist Near You in San Clemente , 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 California_POPULATION, 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_COUNTIES, 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 California_COUNTIES.

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 San Clemente 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.
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