When it comes to finding a therapist, San Francisco, CA has more options than many other more rural areas, but independent practice practitioners in your PPO plan may not be what you need. And using out of network benefits on a licensed psychologist not in your network can get expensive in the city. That’s where online therapy with an online platform like BetterHelp can help. BetterHelp offers over 30,000 licensed professionals that provide online psychotherapy comparable to what you can get with in-person sessions. 

Online psychotherapy with BetterHelp can target any number of mental health challenges like unresolved trauma, social anxiety, stress management, and improving emotional intelligence. In addition, therapists are trained in a variety of specialties such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and emotionally focused therapy. To get started, you’ll fill out an online questionnaire that will match you with a licensed therapist that meets your wants and needs. If you don’t feel that you have a good rapport with your therapist, you can switch until you find your perfect match at no additional cost. 

With online therapy it can be easier to take that first step of seeking the help you need, whether you want to find treatment for a mental health condition like depression or anxiety, or have been meaning to work on self-actualization. If you are looking for any type of talk therapy in the San Francisco area, the licensed professional therapists at BetterHelp can get you started on your journey to better mental health and well-being.

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Psychologist Henry "Jay" Swedlaw providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Henry "Jay" Swedlaw

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 22321, NH LCMHC 2837
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Texas, Florida, California, Wyoming, New Mexico, New Hampshire, and Arizona with 10 years of experience on this platform, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on creating affirming, compassionate spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals, young adults, and those experiencing relationship challenges, anxiety, and personal growth obstacles. My therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique journey. I offer expertise in addressing depression, stress, social anxiety, workplace dynamics, and interpersonal communication. With a commitment to inclusive, non-judgmental care, I support clients exploring sexuality, gender identity, relationship structures, and personal empowerment. Drawing from two decades of clinical experience, I help individuals develop resilience, self-understanding, and meaningful strategies for emotional wellness. Whether you're confronting trauma, relationship transitions, or seeking deeper self-acceptance, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with genuine empathy and professional guidance.

Psychologist Henry Burciaga providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Henry Burciaga

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 19940
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
40 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring nearly four decades of compassionate clinical experience to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding diverse human experiences, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and trauma recovery. I am committed to creating a supportive therapeutic environment that honors each person's unique journey. My practice focuses on helping clients navigate intricate emotional landscapes, including issues related to self-love, communication challenges, isolation, life purpose, and social anxiety. I have extensive experience working with individuals across various life stages, from young adults to older populations. My therapeutic style integrates cultural sensitivity and a holistic understanding of personal growth. I strive to provide a non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're confronting interpersonal conflicts, processing traumatic experiences, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I am dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise.

Psychologist Dr. Frederick  Smoot providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

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 Lourdes Mayes providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Lourdes Mayes

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 76284
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefAnger managementDepression
21 years offering treatment

Hi, I am a bilingual English/ Spanish licensed clinical social worker in California with over 21 years of experience in the mental health field. I have the honor of working with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, PTSD, anger and stress management, parenting issues, and couple relationship challenges. I strive to create a safe, non-judgemental and comfortable environment so we can work together to gain insight into the various contributions to your feelings and problems. We will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your problems, improve communication skills, build empathy & respect, learn effective problem-solving & conflict resolution skills, and strengthen connection, including intimacy. Very soon you will discover yourself and about the changes you can make to propel yourself forward. As long as you are open to sharing as well as accepting what is shared with you, this process of exploring can be highly rewarding, and it will also set up for success down the road. I’m looking forward to working with you!

Psychologist Mark Daniels providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Mark Daniels

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 9713
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
43 years offering treatment

Hello, my name is Mark A. Daniels, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have over 45 years of direct clinical experience in the public and private sector. I have worked with consumers with a wide range of challenges and concerns that include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, career issues, and anger management. I also have expertise working with culturally diverse consumers, and consumers who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. I have also worked extensively with consumers within the forensic psychiatric arena including state prisons, county jails, and state hospitals. My therapeutic interventions are supportive, interactive, validating, and nonjudgmental. I embrace treating everyone with respect, compassion and with unconditional positive regard. My approach combines cognitive behavioral interventions, humanistic, mindfulness, and psychosocial interventions. I will tailor our dialogue, and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Everyone has value and are important in life's journey, sometimes we need to share each other's strength to make it from Monday to Tuesday. Congratulations on your decision to seek empowerment and to enhance your current emotional being. I appreciate your courage and look forward to assisting you on this journey. Together we will work to access your inner strength, wisdom and talent to help you become stronger and better than ever before. You don't have to do this alone. Sincerely, Mark A. Daniels, LCSW

Psychologist Dr. Katherine (Kate) Bergam providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Dr. Katherine (Kate) Bergam

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 44399
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersSelf esteemCareer difficultiesADHD
22 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with isolation, depression, and anxiety, insomnia, stress, self love, life purpose & coping with symptoms. 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 Noelle Sladon providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Noelle Sladon

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 36197
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf 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, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Carlton Hemphill providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Carlton Hemphill

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC LPCC21526, AZ LPC LPC-24496
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemADHD
7 years offering treatment

I work with adults in their 20s and 30s who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward. Many face the challenges of neurodivergence like Autism or ADHD, along with the anxiety or life transitions that often come with it. I also support gay and queer individuals navigating identity, self-esteem, and relationship issues. I also work with Pure-O OCD using Inference-based CBT (I-CBT), an approach that's still hard to find in virtual care. My approach is insight-driven. Before we reach for techniques, I want to understand what's happening underneath, then we decide together which tools actually fit you. I don't see your identity as something to fix.

Psychologist Matthew Poje providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Matthew Poje

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 11515, WI LPC 4911-125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuse
20 years offering treatment

Welcome! My name is Matt Poje, LPCC. I specialize in the healing of emotional trauma, using the Instinctual Trauma Response method (ITR). I have 15 years working with Veterans via Department of Defense contracts, and over 23 yrs of professional work experience. I am licensed in CA and WI. The ITR method uses over 100 years of neuroscience to help heal the brain. Since ITR uses neuroscience, you will learn the steps of the ITR method that will help you to become more resilient. ITR is not talk therapy in the classical sense. ITR is a focused, purposeful method of trauma healing and proven to work. If you are ready to work on a proven method of reducing symptoms of trauma, I look forward to work with you. I do not perform diagnostic tests. I use screening tools, and therefore will not provide any letters to employers or court systems. Before scheduling a session, watch the ITR video: https://vimeo.com/752151441

Psychologist Eugene Yamamoto providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Eugene Yamamoto

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 65018
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
30 years offering treatment

I am a licensed clinical social worker LCSW therapist in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. 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 Dr. David Sommers providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Dr. David Sommers

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 6263
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyDepression
40 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I also have an expertise ,specialization in all aspects of Geriatrics

Psychologist William Money providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

William Money

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 151936
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with despression. 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.

Psychologist Javier Gonzalez providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

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.

Psychologist Sharon Peterson providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Sharon Peterson

Clinician
License Type(s): TX LCSW 119851, CA LCSW 136731
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCoping with life changesADHD
9 years offering treatment

I'm a therapist with nearly a decade of experience supporting individuals through life's most challenging moments. I work with clients across the lifespan, helping them navigate stress, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and the profound impact of trauma. My approach is grounded in compassion and collaboration. I specialize in helping clients process traumatic experiences, build healthier communication patterns, and develop coping strategies for life transitions. I'm particularly skilled in supporting those managing anxiety disorders, including social anxiety and panic, as well as individuals working through grief, divorce, and significant life changes. I also have experience supporting clients with neurodevelopmental differences, chronic health challenges, attachment concerns, and family dynamics. Whether you're navigating codependency, body image struggles, caregiver stress, or questions about life purpose and meaning, I'm here to help you find clarity and healing. I welcome clients who value faith as part of their therapeutic journey, and I'm honored to work with older adults and those from diverse backgrounds. My goal is to create a safe, respectful space where you feel truly heard and supported as you move toward greater peace and resilience.

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

Find a therapist near you in San Francisco, California

Finding a therapist near you in San Francisco, 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 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 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 San Francisco, California

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

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