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 Jude Patton providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Jude Patton

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT LMFT140542, WA LMFT LF00001250
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTSleeping disordersDepressionADHD
46 years offering treatment

I am an older out/open/proud transgender man. I have expertise and extensive experience in serving transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming clients. I prefer to serve my own community members, but do not discriminate against others. I am licensed as a therapist in California and Washington, as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), with 45 years of professional counseling experience. My professional background also includes having worked as a Psychiatric Physician Associate for 43 years, and as a sex educator and sex therapist. Before my career in human medicine and mental health, I worked for 20+ years as a Veterinary Medical Assistant and understand the value of animal companions and of the natural environment in supporting healthy living. I have experience in treating clients who have ADHD, an autism spectrum disorder, chronic pain/chronic illness, and/or end-of-life concerns, sleeping disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and depression. I believe that you are the expert on your own story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Making the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started. I am looking forward to working with you to find solutions to reach your goals in therapy.

Psychologist Dr. Thomas Browne PhD providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Dr. Thomas Browne PhD

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist 24087
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepressionCoaching
25 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience in areas of mental health and well being. I have experience in helping a wide range of clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & depression, including addiction. 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, healthier, and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Linda Granadino providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Linda Granadino

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 69793
Mental Wellness Specialties: Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
14 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 Cynthia Langley providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Cynthia Langley

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 9211
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
45 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 45 years of professional work experience. My expertise comes from working with the Department of Mental Health in LA County ( worked with the mobile Psychiatric Evaluation Team, hospitalized suicidal, and homicidal patients; provided psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults; worked with persons in individual and group therapy experiencing symptoms from depressive disorders, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse and child abuse); medical social work in the acute care and LTAC hospital settings; and home health settings; adoptions and foster care; provided case management and housing services to homeless persons in LA County; managed a cash pay and insurance private practice; and provided clinical supervision to numerous social work, psychology, and marriage and family interns. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. NOTE: BE ADVISED THAT I DO FILL OUT A CLIENT QUESTIONNAIRE ON THE FIRST SESSION. IT IS A PART OF MY CLINICAL HISTORY TAKING ON A CLIENT. I do work with clients from various racial and ethnic backgrounds. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage. I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Karen Camese providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Karen Camese

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 99165
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and healing journeys. My practice centers on addressing trauma, addiction, family dynamics, and personal growth, with a deep commitment to empowering clients across diverse backgrounds. I bring compassionate expertise to challenges including grief, life changes, communication difficulties, and interpersonal relationships. My approach honors each person's unique story, focusing on building self-love, understanding personal purpose, and developing resilient coping strategies. My therapeutic work spans a wide range of experiences—from supporting individuals navigating midlife transitions to helping those healing from domestic violence, addiction, and intergenerational family dynamics. I am particularly passionate about creating affirming spaces for women, caregivers, and older adults seeking meaningful personal transformation. Through evidence-based, culturally responsive practices, I walk alongside clients as they rediscover their strength, reconnect with their inherent worth, and cultivate profound healing and self-understanding.

Psychologist Matthew Poje providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Matthew Poje

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LPC 4911-125, CA LPCC 11515
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuse
17 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. Dr. Jimmie Turner providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Dr. Dr. Jimmie Turner

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist PSY6917
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCompassion fatigue
30 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe 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 Briana Henry providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Briana Henry

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 104847
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #104847) in California with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and have been supporting clients through telehealth services for several years. At this time, I provide therapy for individuals only through live chat and messaging sessions. My practice focuses on brief, goal-oriented therapy, ideal for clients who are motivated to address specific, identifiable challenges. Together, we can work on managing anxiety or stress, coping with life transitions, adjusting to postpartum, strengthening relationships, or refreshing coping skills previously learned in therapy. This focused and collaborative approach is especially helpful for clients who are looking for brief support or using their Employee Assistance Program (EAP), offering effective tools and insights within a short-term framework. I aim to create a safe, supportive, and judgment-free environment where you can share openly and work toward meaningful change. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and balanced life takes courage—and I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Psychologist Reginald Bruno providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Reginald Bruno

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 098104, CA LCSW 130680
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
28 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida. Virginia, Washington DC, Oregon, and New York with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping adult clients cope with and manage stress and anxiety, and a range of many other co-occurring disorders. I have helped clients coping with addictions, grief and loss, improving motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I have a good working and interactive experience with my clients to create an open and safe environment where their thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Tiffany Whittington providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Tiffany Whittington

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 150425
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 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, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 Christine Randall Walker providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Christine Randall Walker

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 68030
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
30 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress/anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, Autism , schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I have treated other clinicians who are seeking assistance with their own self-care. I completed a M.Div., MSW and a master’s in clinical psychology and can work with many treatment theories/approaches and diagnoses including the following: CBT, DBT, solution focused, motivational interviewing, ACT, strength based, humanistic, Christian Counseling and MBSR. I also have experience with dynamic and insight-oriented theories/treatments. I am culturally sensitive and aware of the impact of gender, race, class and sexual orientation with every client and situation. Virginia Satir said “Life is not the way it's supposed to be, it's the way it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference” Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process and in your journey.

Psychologist Karen Ann Marshalleck providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Karen Ann Marshalleck

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 45436
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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.

Find a Therapist Near You in San Francisco , 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.

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, 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 San Francisco.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in California do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times 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 Francisco 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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