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 Kathleen Martello providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Kathleen Martello

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 006567 , PA LPC PC015955
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoaching
10 years offering treatment

I am a warm, empathic, kind hearted Licensed Mental Health Counselor with great listening skills and I love the work that I do. Serving others brings me fulfillment and gives me a sense of meaning and purpose. I received my Masters Degree at Nyack College in N.Y. and I have been practicing for five years. I am fluent in English and Spanish and can also provide Christian Counseling. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy flowing from a Psychodynamic perspective to help address irrational core beliefs stemming from the past, as well as Behavioral Therapy to teach interpersonal skills, Solution Focused, Problem Solving Therapy to help clarify what the root of the issue might be, Motivational Interviewing techniques to help arrive to a decision that clients choose. You have taken the first step towards improving the quality of your life. Feel free to reach out to me as soon as you are ready. I would love to help you achieve your goals. I also work with victims of interpersonal violence aka domestic violence and help with healing from Narcissistic personality disorder abuse.

Psychologist Mario Palacios providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Mario Palacios

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 46078
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
25 years offering treatment

Dealing with difficulties, stressors and life’s challenges can be quite challenging. However, I believe it is something that you don’t have to go through alone. If you are ready to invest in your healing, let's talk about ways in which I can help you. I want to talk to you first about how I work. I work with people who are ready to improve their quality of life and who are highly motivated to create realistic expectations that will help to empower them. I strive to help those who have lost control of their lives and help them gain it back by becoming more attuned with their lives. Our relationship is one of trust, empathy and a solid building foundation. From there, we work together to build and create realistic goals that will help to improve your growth and build positive changes in your life. It is wonderful when you can be good to yourself. Remember that change comes from within. I look forward to you taking that first step

Psychologist Miriam DeBerry providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Miriam DeBerry

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LMFT 2014006569, CA LMFT 123881
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
13 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Southern California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life challenges for over 17 years. My approach centers on empowering clients to develop deeper self-understanding, resilience, and authentic connection. With extensive experience addressing stress, relationship dynamics, and personal growth, I create a compassionate space where clients can explore their experiences and cultivate meaningful change. My clinical focus spans diverse areas including women's issues, multicultural concerns, anxiety disorders, and healing from traumatic life experiences. I'm particularly passionate about helping individuals work through challenges related to anxiety, depression, communication barriers, isolation, relationship challenges, boundary setting, and ADHD. My integrative therapeutic approaches using solution-focus, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused CBT, systemic, client-centered, and acceptance & commitment interventions helped my clients create healthier life choices for a positive present and future. I understand that each person's journey is unique, and I'm committed to providing culturally responsive, affirming care that honors individual experiences and identities. My goal is to walk alongside you with genuine empathy, respect, and collaborative support as you move toward greater wholeness and well-being. With an open heart, mind, and soul, I will support you into the next stages of your life. My current available times are posted upon availability. See schedule for open times.

Psychologist Noelle Sladon providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Noelle Sladon

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 36197
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
35 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Diana Bernhardy providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Diana Bernhardy

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW LCS13837
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
32 years offering treatment

Hello, my name is Diana Bernhardy. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years experience working with diverse groups and treatment issues. Past experiences have included primarily working in a forensic inpatient psychiatric mental health facility providing dydactic treatment with individuals with moderate to severe mental disorders, antisocial /criminal behaviors, and substance abuse. I've also worked in private practice and outpatient mental health services providing various treatment modalities and interventions in addressing various topics, i.e., depression, anxiety, stress, anger, grief/loss , separation issues, self esteem issues, women issues, PTSD/trauma, and case management. I explore the mental, behavior and spiritual aspects of the person to achieve wholeness and wellness. Thank you for reading my profile and I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Stephanie Howard providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Stephanie Howard

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 27501
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
17 years offering treatment

Hello and Welcome to my therapy practice! My name is Stephanie Howard and I am a licensed therapist in the state of California with 17 years of professional work experience. I have worked in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities, schools, and community-based non-profits and clinics. I graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with my master's degree. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral and Psychodynamic therapy techniques in my practice. I believe in using a strengths-based, client focused approach to help clients reach their personal goals in therapy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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 Jacqueline Hayes providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Jacqueline Hayes

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 50113
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
16 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring 16 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, family conflicts, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing issues such as self-esteem, communication difficulties, social anxiety, and relationship dynamics. My approach is compassionate and tailored, drawing from a deep understanding of human experiences. I'm particularly committed to supporting women, young adults, and individuals wrestling with life transitions, workplace stress, and personal identity. Whether you're struggling with isolation, seeking purpose, or working through relationship challenges, I offer a supportive, understanding environment. Grounded in Christian values and a conservative therapeutic perspective, I create a safe space where clients can explore their emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and move towards healing and self-discovery. My goal is to empower you to build resilience, find inner strength, and create meaningful, positive change in your life.

Psychologist Yu Tsun Tseng-Brown providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Yu Tsun Tseng-Brown

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 53180
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
26 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring over two decades of dedicated experience supporting individuals, couple, family through complex emotional landscapes. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the nuanced challenges of depression, anxiety, marital problems, trauma, grief, and anger management. I am certified in child abuse and home violence, parenting educator, play therapy, seek safety (intervention for substance abuse and trauma), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, managing and adapting program (treatment of depression, trauma, anxiety, and disruptive behavior) and CORES (crisis intervention). I specialize in creating compassionate, culturally-responsive therapeutic spaces that honor each client's unique journey. Drawing from extensive clinical expertise, I help individuals develop resilient coping strategies and meaningful pathways toward emotional healing and personal growth. My professional commitment is centered on providing empathetic, evidence-based support that respects your individual experiences and strengths. I believe in collaborative healing, where you are the expert of your own story, and I serve as a supportive guide in your transformative process.

Psychologist Christina Handal providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Christina Handal

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 97537
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
9 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I am excited about the opportunity to continue my work with individuals, couples, families and children. I approach my work with respect, cultural awareness and a strong belief in self-empowerment. Our time together will be supportive, collaborative, focused and goal driven. Although I am continually learning and searching for what works, Reality Therapy/Choice Theory is my primary theoretical approach. I believe my purpose is to help clients discover, clarify and maximize their potential for healing/growth. I am a strong believer in the healing power of good relationships, so my work is framed by the intent to help folks get along better with the important people in their lives.

Psychologist Harriett Bay providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

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.

Psychologist Erica Nolasco providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

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.

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 Desseray Vega providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Desseray Vega

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 144666
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
16 years offering treatment

Nice to meet you! My name is Desseray Vega, and I have over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, teens, and adults from diverse backgrounds. I am passionate about creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered throughout their therapeutic journey. I primarily utilize a person-centered approach, believing that each individual is the expert on their own life. I tailor therapy to meet your unique needs, drawing from evidence-based techniques to help you build on your strengths, navigate life's challenges, and work toward meaningful, lasting change. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship concerns, stress, trauma, or simply seeking personal growth, I am here to walk alongside you with compassion, empathy, and respect. My goal is to help you gain insight, develop practical coping skills, and feel more confident in creating the life you want. I look forward to the opportunity to support you on your journey toward healing and wellness.

Psychologist Karen Zelaya-Kendall providing different types of therapy in San Francisco

Karen Zelaya-Kendall

Clinician
License Type(s): PA Psychologist PS016415, CA Psychologist PSY34533
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
29 years offering treatment

I received a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from St. John's University in 2005, a M.A. in Clinical Psychology from St. John's University in 2001 and a B.A. in Psychology from Loyola University New Orleans in 1997. I was intensively trained in DBT by Behavioral Tech, LLC in 2007. I was trained in Prolonged Exposure Therapy for the treatment of PTSD by Elizabeth Hembree, Ph.D. of the University of Pennsylvania CTSA. I received a Certificate for training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety disorders: Components of Care from Postpartum Support International (PSI). I am Credentialed with the National Register for Health Service Psychologists. For over 20 years, I have completed psychological evaluations, provided individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy and DBT to clients in outpatient, inpatient and residential treatment settings. I supervised and trained student and staff therapists. I am a Cognitive Behavioral therapist who focuses the beginning stages of treatment on helping my clients to use skills to improve their everyday functioning. I believe that helping people to understand themselves fully and working through the challenges and life events which influences their functioning is the overall goal of treatment. I am truly blessed and honored to able to work with people to help them improve their lives. 

*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.

Find the right therapist for your needs
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