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.
Scott Underwood
I'm an older, more conservative therapist. My first experience in the field was with the Army as a Behavioral Science Specialist in 1984. I have worked in Community Mental Health, Psychiatric Hospitals, private practice, and most recently service mostly active duty Air Force at Nellis and Creech Air Force base. I'm well trained and experienced working with trauma, depression, and anxiety. I can help with problem solving, anger management, and other issues. I am experienced treating people with very serious conditions, and, highly functional people that have hit a rough spot. Counseling does not have to be heavy, serious and intimidating. Under the right circumstances, we can both find humor in a situation and release tension with laughter instead of tears. For the new client, you may have a better experience and have your expectations met if you have an idea what you want out of therapy. With my experience on this site, I have some observations. Some of you very much enjoy the convenience of this platform. And, however you choose to receive counseling, teleconference, phone, or chat, that is what you will get. There are some that enjoy the almost complete anonymity of the internet platform. There are some that are interested in an assessment, diagnosis, and consultation or treatment recommendations based on the diagnosis. There are some that very much want a good listener. If you let me know what you want, I'll lock in. If you change your mind about what you want, I'll be flexible. If you want short-term counseling, let me know the number of sessions, and we'll get as much done as we can. If therapy is going to be a part of your long-term growth, let me know that as well. Of course, there is the possibility that you just want to sample therapy to see what it's all about. I think that's great!
Jehalin Anandam
Hi my name is Jehalin, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist with 13 years of experience working with adults, children, adolescents, and families from various walks of life. I have experience with helping people who are experiencing various hardships in life and difficulty adjusting, as well as people experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, mood disorders, etc. I am known for being a good listener, caring, accepting, and compassionate, regardless of the challenges one might be experiencing. The therapeutic approaches I use is cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused, client centered, play therapy, reality therapy, mindfulness, and more. My desire is to help you achieve your goals by providing a safe, authentic, and compassionate clinical setting with an individualized therapy experience. Please let me know how I may assist.
Sybil Stafford
As a licensed therapist in California, I bring over two decades of experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the nuanced experiences of diverse populations, with a particular focus on women's issues, trauma recovery, and multicultural concerns. I specialize in helping clients navigate challenging life transitions, including relationship dynamics, workplace stress, family conflicts, and personal growth. My therapeutic work centers on addressing anxiety, attachment issues, and healing from past traumatic experiences. I'm committed to creating a compassionate, affirming space where individuals can explore their emotions, develop resilient coping strategies, and rediscover their inner strength. My practice embraces a holistic perspective, recognizing that each person's journey is unique. Whether you're struggling with life purpose, managing chronic stress, or working through significant personal transitions, I offer supportive guidance tailored to your individual needs and experiences.
Andrea Plate
I am licensed in California, with 20 years of professional work experience. For nearly 15 years I ran a residential substance abuse treatment program within the West Los Angeles Department of Veterans Affairs, serving those suffering from homelessness and chronic mental illness. Now working with individuals in the population at large, I do my best to help clients cope with: anxiety, personal and professional setbacks, addiction, major life changes, relationship conflicts and career concerns. I also refine and enhance my practice through teaching social welfare and addiction at a major West Los Angeles university. 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.
Jasmine Ortiz
I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am also Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Laurentara Weinman
You have taken the first step in seeking to overcome the things that challenge you in your life and that takes courage. And I am here to support you in that process. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with six years of professional experience. I specialize in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ and related issues, and depression. I will listen carefully to you to understand your issues, not only on a conscious level, but on a subconscious level as well. In that way, I will have a deeper understanding of the change you desire in your life. I will approach you with compassion and understanding and will approach your issues with no shame, blame or criticism. My hope would be that you find our sessions to be meaningful, effective, and rewarding, leading to a path for a more peaceful, productive, and joyful life.
Gregory Putzka
I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy related issues, & parenting issues. 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!
Dr. David Sommers
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
Cristina Dawes
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!
Terence Shigg
I am licensed in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Christine Randall Walker
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.
Stella Galarza De Saggese
As a licensed therapist in California with four decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My professional journey has been dedicated to helping clients navigate challenges related to depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and self-esteem development. Drawing from my extensive clinical background, I offer a compassionate and culturally sensitive approach that honors each person's unique lived experience. I am bilingual English-Spanish. I understand the nuanced ways life experiences shape our emotional well-being, and I'm committed to creating a supportive, affirming therapeutic environment. My approach centers on empowering clients to discover their inner strengths, develop resilient coping strategies, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. I bring deep empathy, professional expertise, and a genuine commitment to walking alongside you as you work through life's most challenging moments. I welcome individuals seeking thoughtful, experienced guidance in their healing journey, with a particular understanding of the needs of diverse communities and older adult populations.
Amarjit Kaur
As a licensed therapist with over a decade of clinical experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients work through depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and life transitions with compassionate, culturally-informed care. Drawing from my rich professional background, I provide a supportive and affirming therapeutic environment that honors each person's unique identity and lived experiences. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the nuanced challenges individuals face, particularly those from diverse cultural backgrounds. I am committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful strategies for personal growth. My work is guided by a deep respect for individual strengths and a belief in each person's capacity for healing and transformation. My therapeutic style integrates evidence-based practices with a holistic, person-centered approach, ensuring that every client receives personalized support tailored to their specific needs and goals. Together, we can work collaboratively to navigate life's challenges and move towards greater emotional well-being.
D'schelle Chatman-Singh
As a licensed therapist serving diverse communities, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, workplace challenges, and personal growth. My practice centers on empowering young adults and professionals through holistic, culturally responsive counseling. I bring expertise in addressing mood disorders, communication difficulties, financial stress, and multicultural experiences. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding individual narratives, particularly for those experiencing discrimination, identity challenges, and systemic barriers. I'm committed to creating a compassionate, affirming space where clients can explore self-love, sexuality, and personal resilience. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients develop robust coping strategies, strengthen interpersonal skills, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're confronting workplace dynamics, midlife transitions, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with respect, expertise, and genuine care.
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:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
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:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in California (CA)
- 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.