Find a licensed online therapist in San Francisco, CA
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.
Ashwini Gupta
Clinician
License Type(s): NV LMFT 5158-R, VA LMFT 0717002532
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment
Namaste, my name is Ashwini Gupta. I am a Therapist, Intuitive Life Coach, Shamanic Practitioner, Animal Communicator, and soul-level intuitive channel with 20+ years of experience supporting individuals through life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and spiritual growth. My approach blends Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Vedanta, mindfulness-based practices, and intuitive healing to help clients reconnect with their deeper sense of self, purpose, and inner wisdom. I offer a warm, grounded, and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their struggles while also moving toward a more meaningful and values-aligned life. ACT supports psychological flexibility by helping clients relate differently to difficult thoughts and emotions while taking values-guided action. Vedanta offers a spiritual framework for understanding the soul’s divine nature, the oneness of existence, and the deeper meaning behind our human experiences. In addition to being a therapist, I also offer shamanic practice, animal communication, and soul-level intuitive channeling through my private practice. While these esoteric modalities are separate from traditional therapy services, they deeply influence the grounded, intuitive, and spiritually informed presence I bring to my work with therapy clients. My intention is to support clients in feeling more connected to themselves, their values, their inner knowing, and the larger web of life around them.
Gema Martir
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 98858
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
15 years offering treatment
I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Michele Downey
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 23607
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCompassion fatigue
35 years offering treatment
I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Sheba Shiver
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 47468
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
15 years offering treatment
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. What I enjoy most about providing mental health services is assisting people with finding their voices. That usually happens with establishing and communicating clear, healthy boundaries in relationships. I start that process with how you might relate to me--working to develop a therapeutic alliance, building trust, and working collaboratively. I learn as much from you as I might be able to teach you. I don't profess to be an expert on your life because it is your experience. I am privileged to be on your journey to wellness. No matter what may be causing disruption in your life--anxiety, depression, trauma, or the like, I will meet you where you are in your process.
Ashby "Brooks" Larsen
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 12724, UT LCSW 11035932-3501
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
58 years offering treatment
I am licensed in California and Utah with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Nancy Salvatierra
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 125964
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyCoping with life changes
9 years offering treatment
As a licensed therapist in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, relationships, and personal growth. My practice centers on empowering women, young adults, and families through compassionate, culturally-responsive care. I bring deep expertise in addressing stress, anxiety, attachment challenges, and the nuanced experiences of immigration, and family dynamics. My approach is rooted in understanding each person's unique journey, with a particular focus on self-love, healing family-of-origin patterns, and supporting individuals through significant life changes like pregnancy, childbirth, and relationship transitions. I am committed to creating a warm, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences, build resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation.
Keri-Anne Colberg
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 111475
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorder
15 years offering treatment
I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Earl Barrios
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 229
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
38 years offering treatment
I am licensed in California with 36 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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.
Harriett Bay
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 13725
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
40 years offering treatment
I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Erica Nolasco
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 107651
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
7 years offering treatment
My name is Erica Nolasco, I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. My passion is helping indivduals overcome trauma, divorce, depression, anxiety, self-doubt and addiction. I welcome individuals and families to a safe nonjudgmental space with the goal of providing each client long lasting healing, personal growth and happiness. 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.
Eustacia Joseph
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 135568, FL LCSW SW18379
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficulties
4 years offering treatment
I am licensed in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with career difficulties. 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.
Zully Garcia
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 134154
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years offering treatment
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with 3 years of post-licensure professional work. I have experience with all age groups but currently I treat adult clients seeking help with stress, anxiety and depression. I 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 am currently working with adults seeking individual therapy (no couples). My approach is to work collaboratively with you as you identify what you want to work on. What are you hoping to get out of therapy? When will you know that things have gotten better for you?
Carolyn Helt
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 131946
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
3 years offering treatment
As a licensed therapist in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on compassionate, personalized care for those experiencing stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, and challenges with self-esteem. I'm particularly passionate about helping clients work through social anxiety, communication difficulties, isolation, and life purpose exploration. My therapeutic practice creates a safe, affirming space for individuals from diverse backgrounds, with a deep commitment to understanding each person's unique journey. I offer specialized support for women, caregivers, those experiencing mood disorders, and individuals processing complex emotional experiences like attachment issues, guilt, and shame. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients develop resilience, self-love, and effective coping strategies. Whether you're struggling with panic attacks, processing traumatic experiences, or seeking personal growth, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise.
Jacobi Johnson Wade
Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 159901
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
5 years offering treatment
Good therapy starts with feeling like you can actually say the real thing. That’s what I try to make room for. I’m an LMFT in Los Angeles working mostly with adults navigating depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, substance use, and the life transitions that don’t fit a diagnosis, things like career changes, burnout, relationships, and the question of whether you’re living the life you actually want. My style is warm, direct, and real. I draw from DBT, CBT, ACT, and motivational interviewing, and I believe in teaching usable skills, not just insight, but tools you can take out into your real life. A lot of the change happens in the relationship itself, and that’s what I work to build with you. I do this work because therapy changed my own life. I know how much it matters to feel genuinely seen and not judged, and getting to offer that back is the whole point for me. My overall goal is to help you feel less stuck, more grounded, and more connected to who you are, what matters to you, and where you want to go.
*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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