A dedicated therapist can help you work through many things in your life that may make you feel stuck, and they can provide support and treatment for mental health issues, like eating disorders, the effects of domestic violence, or self harm. Whether you’re dealing with a chronic illness or chronic pain, self esteem issues, depression, or anxiety, talking to a therapist can help you work through negative emotions and learn to have self compassion. 

Many therapists are available in the Santa Ana area. A practice may be a more traditional way to seek therapy, but an online platform like BetterHelp is often more convenient and, in many cases, more affordable. If you want to speak to a therapist deeply committed to helping you through recovery, speak with one of the Santa Ana-based therapists below.

 

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Psychologist Kathleen Martello providing different types of therapy in Santa Ana

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 Joy Nussen providing different types of therapy in Santa Ana

Joy Nussen

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 28654, OR LMFT T1997
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
35 years offering treatment

Hello and thank you for being here and reading about me. I reside in Costa Rica and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the States of California and Oregon with over 35 years of experience in a wide variety of settings, working with differing populations and ages. I have helped others who are looking to start or maintain their healing journey or are experiencing obstacles such as depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, addictions and trauma (including multi-generational trauma). My clinical focus is on individual adult men and women from various ethnic backgrounds. It has become abundantly clear to me (especially since working within a global Telehealth format) that regardless of where we come from or our individual life story, we all share the common needs for purpose, meaning, and value in our lives. Those who have worked with me on BetterHelp know that I pay close attention to words, love metaphors, and use humor when it is appropriate to do so. My style is warm and actively engaging and my approach pulls from various sources including solution-focused, dialectical behavior, narrative, and experiential therapies. I can't believe it has been over 6 years since I joined BH. I have developed a model "in honor" of this milestone. I hope it brings clarity to you as to how I may approach your situation. I look forward to meeting you: Joy’s CHIPS Model© … Chipping away at human problems Cognitive Distortions - checking in on narratives Communication - listening vs hearing, stonewalling, ghosting Comparisons - soul killer Compassion - Kindness towards Self? Others? Regret & Resentments Context - environment, culture, religion, health Control - can/can’t (anxiety/panic, codependency, addictions), fear of losing Healthy Distractions - Skills & Tools Honesty - transparency Humility - gratitude? narcissism? I - Am I making it all about me? codependency? narcissism? I - Interpretations & Assumptions, Emotional Maturity Patience Paying Attention - and Mindfulness Petrified - including fear of feeling better Physical - health, including its cause for MH issues Projection - onto others & forecasting Proof - of assumptions Purpose Self-Awareness Self-Sabotage Substances Support System Gratitud porque el corazón aprendió Gratitude because the heart learned Que agradecer es vivir mejor That being thankful is living better

Psychologist Stephanie Howard providing different types of therapy in Santa Ana

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 Joseph De Vico providing different types of therapy in Santa Ana

Joseph De Vico

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LMFT 2025051389, CA LMFT 49494
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years offering treatment

Hello, my name is Joseph De Vico. Let’s talk. We’ll work together until that unsolvable problem is history, until that overwhelming pain is bearable, until the dream future that seems a million miles away is right in front of you. You’ve always been strong, resourceful, and intuitive. I’m just going to help clear away the junk you’re trapped beneath so you can actually feel that way: false beliefs that make life seem harder than it really is; stories about yourself that are so outdated, they have nothing to do with who you are now; distractions that keep you from deciding what is most meaningful to you; power imbalances that take away good things that are rightfully yours. This stuff has to go. What will you feel when you feel better? Peaceful? Hopeful? Whole? Decisive? Free? Seen, validated, grounded, elevated, invigorated, triumphant? Just plain better? When do we start?

Psychologist Dr. Julie Anderson Dennis providing different types of therapy in Santa Ana

Dr. Julie Anderson Dennis

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 22631, ID LMFT LMFT-9855
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
38 years offering treatment

For over 40 years, I have been serving clients and my community in both California and -- more recently -- Idaho as a psychotherapist, radio talk-show host, college instructor, career and workplace consultant, aging counselor, and child development expert. ​ Being able to recognize the patterns, pain, and issues that prevent people from living healthy lives is an essential skill for any therapist. In my twelve years of academic training and forty years of clinical work, I have fine-tuned this skill and gained a wealth of experience to help my clients achieve lasting, positive changes in their lives. ​ I believe that empathy, trust, and honesty are the cornerstones of the therapeutic process. I further believe that everyone has the capacity for change and self-growth. However, healing and growth can occur only when we feel safe enough to explore the issues that trouble us. Therefore, my goal is to create a supportive environment where clients can explore new ways to resolve their struggles so that they can reach their full potential as professionals, parents, lovers, people. ​ You and I will work actively together towards this goal. By balancing my capacity for analysis with a compassionate heart, I will lend you my strength so that you will have the courage to find you own.

Psychologist Dr. Virginia Christophe providing different types of therapy in Santa Ana

Dr. Virginia Christophe

Clinician
License Type(s): AZ LPC LPC-22925, CA LPCC 18211
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
36 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Texas with over three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My approach centers on helping clients navigate issues like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I bring deep expertise in addressing women's issues, workplace challenges, and the unique emotional landscapes of midlife and young adulthood. My practice is rooted in understanding multicultural experiences and providing compassionate, nuanced support across diverse backgrounds. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, overcome isolation, and rediscover life purpose. I'm particularly skilled at supporting individuals through difficult experiences like divorce, caregiver stress, chronic health challenges, and family dynamics. I believe in creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, heal from past wounds, and develop healthier patterns of thinking and relating. My goal is to empower you to build resilience, find meaning, and create positive change in your life.

Psychologist Ashby "Brooks" Larsen providing different types of therapy in Santa Ana

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.

Psychologist Lizette Garcia providing different types of therapy in Santa Ana

Lizette Garcia

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 148924
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years offering treatment

I truly hold a passion for connecting with others in finding their identities, overcome their struggles, and process their experiences. Do you currently have a goal to increase self-awareness for better understanding of yourself? Do you experience intense emotions that feel difficult to manage on your own? Does it feel like you have lost control and want to learn how to regain control again? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I would love to speak with you and process how I can help. My areas of experience/interest include eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and trauma. As I have explored various therapeutic techniques, I have come to find I work best through the psychodynamic lens. I am a very curious therapist and like to explore where behaviors & struggles stem from for true understanding and healing of each unique individual. You do not have to have a mental diagnosis to be a client for psychotherapy. Therapy is for anyone who is willing to explore and has the motivation for change. You deserve the opportunity to invest in yourself for your overall wellbeing and improvement in the quality of your life. I would to speak with you to determine if I am the right fit for you.

Psychologist Darci Simms providing different types of therapy in Santa Ana

Darci Simms

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 93159
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
7 years offering treatment

My name is Darci C Simms and I've served the Central Valley of California as a Social Worker over 17 years. In my role as Licensed Clinical Social Worker I have experience working with all ages from 6 years to end of life. I have provided behavioral health therapy, case management, helping people cope with complex medical diagnoses and severe mental health illnesses, and provided patient advocacy and support services. I enjoy direct patient care and promote mental health and wellness. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Deitra Jones providing different types of therapy in Santa Ana

Deitra Jones

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 138559
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsBipolar disorderDepression
10 years offering treatment

Hello, and welcome! My name is Deitra Jones, and I’m proud of you for taking this step toward therapy. Reaching out for support takes courage, and you’ve already taken an important step toward creating positive change. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist with many years of experience in mental health, behavioral health, and substance use treatment. I also hold a certification in drug treatment programming. My areas of experience include: - Anxiety, stress, and depression - Trauma and PTSD - Substance use and addiction - Co-occurring disorders - Psychosis and psychotic disorders - Justice-involved individuals and reentry challenges - Self-esteem, guilt, and shame - Relationship concerns and life transitions My approach is warm, down-to-earth, collaborative, and nonjudgmental. I use evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, strengths-based interventions, and trauma-informed care. I believe therapy is not one-size-fits-all, so I meet you where you are and tailor our work to your individual needs and goals. I believe in giving ourselves grace while still challenging ourselves to grow. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where you feel heard, respected, and comfortable being yourself. You don’t have to figure everything out alone. I look forward to walking alongside you.

Psychologist Linda Craig providing different types of therapy in Santa Ana

Linda Craig

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 130725
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years offering treatment

Linda K. Craig, LCSW Licensed Clinical Social Worker – California About Me I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience supporting adults navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and complex psychosocial stressors. My background includes crisis residential treatment, outpatient behavioral health, and veteran services, where I’ve provided therapy, crisis intervention, psychosocial assessments, and structured treatment planning. Clients describe my style as calm, collaborative, and grounding. I create a space where you can slow down, feel understood, and work through challenges at a pace that feels safe. My work is rooted in trauma‑informed care, cultural humility, and the belief that healing happens through connection, consistency, and practical tools that support daily life.

Psychologist Elena Balashova-Shamis providing different types of therapy in Santa Ana

Elena Balashova-Shamis

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist PSY20104
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
23 years offering treatment

Dr. Elena Balashova-Shamis is a highly experienced, licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adults, and elderly. She is trained as a psychoanalyst and provides integrative, personalized treatments for her patients. She teaches at 5 local universities, including UCLA’s medical school and NPI. She is known for her presentations, publications, and dissertation advising.

Psychologist Allison Gilbert providing different types of therapy in Santa Ana

Allison Gilbert

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 24087
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years offering treatment

I'm a therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals through life's most challenging transitions. Over my career, I've worked with clients navigating depression, anxiety, stress, and the complexities of relationships and self-esteem. I'm particularly drawn to helping people explore self-love, spirituality, improve communication, and reconnect with their sense of purpose—especially during significant life changes. I understand how isolation and loneliness can compound feelings of guilt and shame, and I'm committed to creating a compassionate space where you can work through these experiences. My approach is grounded in genuine connection and a deep respect for where you are in your journey. Whether you're facing a major life transition, struggling with self-worth, or seeking to rebuild meaningful connections, I'm here to support you with care and authenticity. I believe healing happens when we feel truly heard and understood. I'm honored to walk alongside you as you move toward greater peace and purpose.

Psychologist Dennis Newlin providing different types of therapy in Santa Ana

Dennis Newlin

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 32034
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
35 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 35 years of clinical experience helping adults navigate life's challenges. I have extensive experience treating anxiety, trauma, chronic stress, relationship difficulties, life transitions, grief, and chronic pain. I was originally trained in EMDR by Dr. Francine Shapiro, the developer of EMDR therapy, and continue to integrate trauma-informed, evidence-based approaches into my work. In addition to traditional psychotherapy, I have a background in integrative and functional medicine, allowing me to take a holistic view of emotional well-being by recognizing the important connection between the mind, body, lifestyle, stress, and overall health. My therapy style is warm, collaborative, and compassionate. I believe every person deserves to be treated with respect, empathy, and without judgment. Because no two people are alike, I tailor therapy to your unique needs and goals. Depending on what is most helpful for you, I may incorporate EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and other evidence-based techniques to promote meaningful and lasting change. I believe that healing occurs within a trusting therapeutic relationship. Whether you're working through the effects of trauma, struggling with anxiety or stress, navigating a major life transition, or simply seeking greater balance and fulfillment, I will work alongside you to help you gain insight, build resilience, and develop practical skills for lasting growth. English is my primary language, and I provide all therapy sessions in English. Seeking support is a courageous first step. I would be honored to help you move toward a healthier, more meaningful, and fulfilling life.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Santa Ana, California

Finding a therapist near you in Santa Ana, 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 Santa Ana.

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 Santa Ana, California

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Santa Ana and the surrounding CA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

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