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 Stacey Sugar providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Stacey Sugar

Clinician
License Type(s): MD LCPC LC4288, CA LPCC 10045
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
14 years offering treatment

“Anyone can tell you what to do, but the true ability to grow comes from understanding who you are.” In 15 years of clinical practice, I've realized that within our uniqueness, we have one thing in common: We are all constantly writing our life stories. Many of us are passive biographers, believing that our book is already written, and that the ending is set in stone. Here's the secret: Our lives are not linear, and we have the power to edit our narrative at any--and every--moment. While we cannot change our past, we can learn to change our perspective of it. Once we unlock our unconscious defenses, we gain insight about who we've become and unleash the potential to transform into who we authentically want to be. When entering any new relationship, it is perfectly healthy--and encouraged-- to take the time you need to test it out and make sure it feels right. I promise to meet you where you are, and provide you with the tools to explore yourself deeper and make transformations at your own pace. I will support you to find the strength and motivation that will allow you to be more open and committed to making the changes you desire. In our time together, we will explore the full range of your emotions, including feelings that you may not be aware of--yet! Bringing these unconscious elements into your present experience offers you a series of a-ha moments that lay the foundation for greater self-awareness and enable you to live your best life. If you're ready to dig deep, it is my honor to join you on your journey. Let's remove the barriers that are blocking you from realizing your wants, needs, and actualizing your full potential!

Psychologist Kaniecia L. Williams providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Kaniecia L. Williams

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 94323
Mental Wellness Specialties: Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years offering treatment

Welcome to my profile. I am so glad you are here and chose courage over comfort in reaching out for help. My name is Kaniecia Mixon and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with about 10 years of experience providing behavioral support and therapy. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, social relationship issues, parenting problems, life changes, anger issues, and ADHD. I also have helped many people who have experienced trauma including physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. I have my B.A. in Psychology and my M.S. in Counseling/Marriage and Family Therapy. Most of my experience has been with individuals and families in crisis stabilization, creating safety plans, identifying and developing healthy coping skills, increasing natural supports, and increasing knowledge and awareness of their struggles. I have provided therapy and behavioral support to individuals 5-19. I have been a Therapeutic Behavioral Services Clinician who provided case management and assisted parents with learning parenting strategies to better manage their child's behaviors. I am currently a Program Supervisor to clinical staff who provide those same therapeutic services to people ages 0-21. My counseling style is warm, authentic, and collaborative. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, generosity, and meeting them where they are without stigmatizing labels. I believe that everyone knows what is needed for themselves and I aim to walk alongside you in identifying those needs and goals and supporting and holding you accountable to meeting the goals you set. I have a trauma-informed, strengths-based, and eclectic approach which combines person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, psychodynamic, motivational interviewing, mindfulness practices, and and any other approaches that are needed. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I enjoy incorporating art, creativity, and play into therapy! It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to journeying with you!

Psychologist Shemeram 'Shari' Lachin providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Shemeram 'Shari' Lachin

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 85569
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years offering treatment

Hi, I'm Shari and as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe that prioritizing your mental health is one of the greatest investments you can make in yourself. With over 7 years of experience, I provide an affirming, empowering, and solution-oriented approach tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where you feel supported as we work together to build on your strengths, overcome challenges, and create solutions for meaningful, lasting change.

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 Ryan Glathar providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Ryan Glathar

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 52465
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
17 years offering treatment

Welcome! Thank you for taking the time to stop by and read my profile. I believe that each of us have the ability and are deserving of living full, happy and healthy lives, however so many of us cannot say our lives fit that description. Together I feel we can identify what is creating the roadblocks to this and work on becoming the best version of yourself. In order for a relationship to be successful those people in that relationship need to establish trust. You are giving me the privilege of getting to know you and I want to make sure that we build our therapeutic relationship on trust and respect. I have over 15 years experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns such as but not limited to: depression, relationship issues, self-esteem/self-worth, parenting and domestic violence. I do not believe there is a one size fits all approach when working with clients so I like to try various approaches to see what is best suited for that individual. A few approaches that I do use, but again not limited to are cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, solution-focused and motivational interviewing. Life can be a roller coaster. I look forward to navigating the ups and downs with you so that you can begin to make the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take the first step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Kasey Wallace providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Kasey Wallace

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 109572
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepressionADHD
7 years offering treatment

Hello, my name is Kasey Wallace, and I am an experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California! I have provided services to children, teens, young adults, individuals and families struggling with a variety of issues. I have worked with people challenged by depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, grief/loss, communication issues, life transitions, career concerns, poor self-esteem, and life changing situations. My approach is warm, strength based, and client centered. Together we will practice identifying and challenging unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to negative feelings, improve communication skills, process difficult experiences such as grief and loss and trauma, and improve feelings of low self-worth. I draw on multiple treatment modalities to guide clients in identifying strengths and developing treatment plans that accomplish their goals. I am here to support you and will even utilize humor when needed! Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy traveling, playing sports, cooking, arts, reading, and support all Bay Area sports teams. I am here to support you and look forward to working together.

Psychologist Dr. Katherine Phillips providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Dr. Katherine Phillips

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 49435
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & 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. 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 Eric Aldaco providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Eric Aldaco

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 116682
Mental Wellness Specialties: Self esteemCoping with life changes
16 years offering treatment

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.

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 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 Cristina Dawes providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

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 Dr. Bobbie Paul providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Dr. Bobbie Paul

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 29201
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
32 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 32 years of professional work experience. I have training and experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, depression and coping with life changes. 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. I am confident we can develop the necessary tools so you can prevail over your current challenges and achieve your goals. If you wish to know more about my approach to therapy visit my website at https://www.bobbiejpaul.com.

Psychologist Dr. Jillian Barna providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Dr. Jillian Barna

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 149545
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
19 years offering treatment

I’m a licensed mental health professional in California with 19 years of experience supporting individuals on their path to healing. Much of my work has focused on helping people navigate the challenges of addiction, as well as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and LGBTQ+ concerns. Addiction and other mental health challenges can feel isolating and overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I believe you are the expert of your own story, and I see the strength it takes to even begin considering change. My goal is to walk beside you with compassion and respect, helping you rediscover hope, build resilience, and create meaningful progress—one step at a time. Taking that first step toward a healthier, more fulfilling life is an act of courage. I’m here to support and empower you as you move forward in your journey.

Psychologist Christiane Soehnlein providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Christiane Soehnlein

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 51417
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am a California-licensed therapist with20 years of professional experience. I support clients who are navigating depression, anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, fertility concerns, trauma, abuse, and intimacy-related issues. I believe in treating every person with respect, sensitivity, and compassion Together. we will tailor our conversations and treatment plan to reflect your unique personality, history, and needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and meaningful life, and to take steps necessary for change Im here to support, guide, and empower you on that journey.

*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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Match with a qualified therapist