Finding a therapist in California can be challenging. Even in some of the biggest California cities, concerns about cost or a lack of available providers can make finding an in-person therapist difficult. If you’re looking for mental health care in the Golden State, consider an online therapy platform like BetterHelp.

BetterHelp therapists have extensive experience and can help you work to overcome your unique challenges. From young adults needing help managing ADHD to seniors struggling to heal from past events, therapists can help adults of any age navigate the challenges in their lives and learn to improve their mental wellness.

If you’re looking for a licensed therapist, CA has many online options available. Contact one of the providers below to schedule your first session.

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Elaine Godoy

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 99022
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefParenting issues
8 years of experience

*NOW AVAILABLE FOR LIVE SESSIONS!* Hello there, my name is Elaine and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. My experience includes working with children, teens, adults, and families who are impacted by depression, anxiety, eating disorders, parenting issues, trauma, and grief and loss. I also have over 5 years experience in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis, were I provided behavior therapy to children with developmental disabilities. My therapy style is very down-to-earth and nonjudgmental. I believe that you should feel comfortable sharing your experiences as you work towards your goals. So, how can I help? Maybe life has dealt you one challenge after another, and you are ready to break free and find your happiness. I know you are tired of the perpetual roadblocks and setbacks that prevent you from living life YOUR way. You are frustrated that no matter how hard you try, things just aren’t working. Together we can improve your emotional health, increase satisfaction with daily life, and get you closer to accomplishing those goals you’ve been putting off. You’ve undoubtedly made the courageous choice to work towards regaining control of your life and feeling better. I know you are tired, I know you are ready for change. Let’s work together and help you rediscover the life you were meant to live and feel better about yourself. Parents of children with special needs- Parents, there is help for you! I am very aware of the challenges that impact parents/families who have a child with special needs. Parenting is a difficult task in itself. Those difficulties are exponentially greater when a child has special needs. Maybe your child is receiving behavioral support, but for some reason you find yourself not able to work the same “magic” their therapists can. Do you feel burnt out? Perhaps your child has just been diagnosed and you are having some difficulty understanding or accepting what this all means for you and your family. Maybe you've been "in the game" for years and feel you have lost part of yourself in the world of specialists, doctors, IEPs, regional centers, OT, PT, ABA, etc... I’m here to tell you it’s OKAY. I can help you work through the unique challenges that comes with parenting child with special needs. *My availability has recently opened up to full time. Please reach out to me if interested in scheduling*

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Dr. Daniel Ringhoff

Offering therapy in California
License: FL LCSW SW9542, CA LCSW 124651
AddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
17 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Florida with over 15 years of experience working as a counselor and psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, addiction, career challenges, parenting problems, and involvement in the legal system. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm, interactive, and non-judgmental. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and that people are the experts of their own life. I also believe in challenging people to see different perspectives. My approach combines mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and rational-emotive counseling. I focus on your goals and tailor treatment to meet your needs. It takes courage to seek a happier life and make a commitment to change. If you are ready to take that step forward into the unknown, I am here to provide guidance, empowerment and support so you can get where you want to go. I look forward to working with you!

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Elaine Pritchard

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 94183
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

My heart’s calling is to work with people who are striving for a more joyous and fulfilling life, and to help them deal with the hard issues that stand in the way of happiness. I obtained an MA in Counseling of Psychology and a BA in Psychology, to better understand those I strive to help. I hold ANSA and CANS certificates, as well as an ACT Trainer certificate I use my innate qualities of humor, compassion, understanding, caring, and listening spirituality to work with men, women, individuals, teens, and families. My approach to mental healing is that I walk alongside my clients, and help them navigate the difficult path towards a healthier and more enjoyable life. I use theories from CBT, Motivational Therapy, to talk therapy. People say that I’m easy-going, empathetic, and look at things a little differently outside the box to find new paths to fulfillment. My areas of interest include trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, spectrum disorders (autism), codependency, betrayal, grief, life transitions, teen and women’s issues, and spirituality. I love going to movies and am a huge fan of the Boston Red Sox. My bucket list includes trips to places as far-flung as Australia and Dollywood.

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Dr. Joni Carrasco

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 47661, UT LMFT 12108458-3902
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementCompassion fatigue
17 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Utah with 17 years of professional work experience. 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. To be transparent, I have a neurological disorder that sometimes impacts my speech patterns, however it does not impact me cognitively. Because of my speech impediment I completely understand if you ask me to repeat myself or just need to work with another therapist. I use worksheets and help to find support group suggestions on the Better Help platform for almost everyone. I love those resources, they really work!

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Sheryl Mahon

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LPCC 16568, AZ LPC LPC-22911
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
18 years of experience

Greetings. I am a professional counselor with over 18 years experience working in the areas of grief, trauma, anticipatory grief, caregiver stress, end of life issues, depression, life changes, stress, and chronic illness. I am certified as a grief counselor (GC-C) and as a grief counselor specializing in children and adolescents (GCCA-C). I am committed to assisting you with identifying the changes you want in your life and then exploring different strategies to help you achieve your goals. I would describe my approach to therapy as eclectic. I work with the individual to find the approach that best meets their needs and work to provide the tools that are needed to effect change and promote growth. Finally, I view the therapeutic alliance as a partnership requiring mutual trust, respect, honesty, communication, and commitment to do the work. Hopefully, what I have shared here will help you choose a therapist that best meets your needs. Should you choose me, I look forward to our journey together.

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Doris Lassiter

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 153501, NV LMFT 01366
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

Hello: I am happy to meet with you! I am a caring, kind and altruistic therapist with you in mind. I start my sessions with a assessment of your personal goals and what you want to achieve in the therapeutic relationship. I will use all the appropriate therapy approaches to support you with attaining the goals you identified in the initial session. I will use all my skills with a caring positive stance to help you in the process of recovery from the symptoms that caused you to seek therapy. I have worked in the field of mental health since 1996 at various capacities. I began as a recreation therapist in 1996 and provided recreation programs for adults and children with mental or physical disabilities. In 2011, I completed my master's degree in Marriage and Family therapy, and I am licensed in the state of Nevada and California. I have been working as a therapist for over 14 years.; I am delighted to be serving you in the awesome and pleasant process of achieving you dream life and desired outcomes. As I have stated, I have many years of service as a mental health professional and have vast experience helping people cope with complex issues, mental health symptoms and working towards their identified goals. I also have done counseling from a Biblical perspective, and can support people who want Christian based counseling, resolve issues and achieve their goals. My work as a Christian counselor includes using Biblical ethics of establishing peace, health and emotional wellness while working on the individual's desired outcomes. My experience also includes extensive work with the teenage population. I use all therapeutic interventions appropriate for the individual to support them with self-esteem, healthy boundaries, living a healthy, happy life, while working on their identified goals. Finally, I have counseled many couples and have the experience and skills to support them with resolving relational issues, keeping the relationship strong and healthy, and achieving amicable communication between each partner. I am looking forward to the opportunity to work with you, help you cope with the issues that you want to resolve in the therapeutic relationship. It is my greatest desire to support you with achieving a beautiful life.

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Giovanni Bass

Offering therapy in California
License: NC LCSW C008797, NV LCSW 11322-C
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social-Worker with experience treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, and borderline personality. I also provide marital counseling and family consultation. I provide treatment plans that address problems associated with impulse control, anger management, communication, self-awareness, self-esteem, perspective, and negative thought patterns. I have over 5 years of experience and I have treated individuals in various parts of the world, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia. I provide spiritually integrated psychotherapy where the focus is on gaining knowledge of self and developing a relationship with a higher power. I have military experience and I am honored to have had the opportunity to treat many veterans and active duty soldiers suffering from various forms of trauma and adjustment disorders. My approach and treatment modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, rational emotive therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. Each treatment plan is tailored to meet the needs of each soul I interact with. I will support you and help you discover the strength, from within yourself, to fulfill your purpose and to live the life you want to live. Take that first step, and I will take the rest with you!

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Magdalena Orr

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 49661
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

All of us need support at different times through our lives. The ability to see this and ask for help is a powerful statement of owns health. My intention is to create safe and compassionate space for each individual to examine their life experiences and support them as they embark on a journey toward self discovery and wellness. As a therapist for 20 years I worked with individuals, youth and couples dealing with wide range of issues such as: stress, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, parenting and more. My approach is holistic and I utilize variety of therapeutic modalities (CBT, ACT, Client centered, Psychodynamic, Mindfulness) to help access your strengths, trust your own personal inner guidance to lead you through difficult times. My goal is to work side by side with you and support you in discovering new ways of being, challenging old beliefs and rules that no longer serve you.

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Willie Denard

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 24259
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I have been a Licensed Clinical Social worker and Mental Health Therapist in the State of California with over 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse and depression, as well as other life issues. 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.

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Pak Poon

Offering therapy in California
License: TX LMFT 204245, CA LMFT 105218
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Texas with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Dr. Bobbie Paul

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 29201
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
32 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 32 years of professional work experience. I have training and experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, depression and coping with life changes. 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. I am confident we can develop the necessary tools so you can prevail over your current challenges and achieve your goals. If you wish to know more about my approach to therapy visit my website at https://www.bobbiejpaul.com.

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Megan Allen

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LMFT 40452
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemCoaching
28 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, 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. 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.

This is Tamineca Lollis's avatar and link to their profile

Tamineca Lollis

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 60861
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I am a Christian and believe in implementing both biblical truths and mental health techniques to help clients better understand and pursue their purpose. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Tucker Cannon

Offering therapy in California
License: CA LCSW 28707
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I’m Tucker Cannon, a licensed psychotherapist here to guide you through life’s most complex and difficult matters. I truly care about my patients’ well-being and promise a commitment to high quality therapy and consultation services individualized to your unique needs. Throughout my career, I have provided a wide range of therapeutic services to children, families, individuals, schools and agencies. Growth toward one's well-being is my number one priority, and I go above and beyond to help each client overcome the obstacles that lead to the pursuit of personal and familial happiness. Get in touch with me today for more information.

How can a counselor support you?

Therapists can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.

Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 32,349,851 people live in CA, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for local licensed professionals may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.  

The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.

Please note that BetterHelp therapists in California does not offer diagnostic or medication management services in therapy.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor or therapists?

People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

The mental health therapists in California support clients with varying issues through therapy, working with:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders requiring therapy
  • Anxiety disorders in need of therapeutic support
  • Depression or depressive mental health conditions
  • Adjustment issues in need of therapeutic support
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief therapy
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma therapy
  • Relationship conflicts and mental health concerns

Finding a therapist in California that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.

If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.

Emergency services to contact in a crisis

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use the BetterHelp therapy site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the therapy hotlines below:

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some of the most commonly asked questions about therapy can be found in the section below.

How much does therapy with a licensed therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person California therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $65 to $100 per week. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.

Is it possible to find a therapist, counselor, or psychology practitioner that offers affordable therapy?

Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.

When should I get a therapist in California?

Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. You do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy; You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

What can a psychologist help me with in therapy?

Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does insurance cover the cost of in-person or online therapy with a therapist in California?

Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.

Are online therapy sessions the safe option?

Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.

In today's fast-paced society, mental well-being has become a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Amid the daily challenges and stressors that can overwhelm even the most resilient individuals, seeking professional guidance often offers a path to clarity and balance. The journey toward improved emotional health involves understanding personal triggers, embracing self-compassion, and developing effective coping strategies. While self-help books and online resources provide valuable information, nothing compares to the personalized support offered by a qualified mental health professional. One-on-one sessions with experienced experts can help uncover the underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles. With a careful and empathetic approach, these professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, ensuring that each person receives strategies that work best for their unique circumstances. Whether through cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other innovative methods, the aim is to foster resilience and empower individuals to take control of their inner lives. For those living in bustling urban centers, engaging in face-to-face sessions in a welcoming environment can be particularly beneficial. Access to a caring clinician provides not only a safe space to explore difficult emotions but also builds a support network essential for long-term recovery. The process encourages self-reflection and greater insight into behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. While the journey can be challenging at times, the rewards include enhanced emotional stability, improved interpersonal relationships, and a renewed sense of self-worth. In one notable case, the guidance provided by a highly trained therapist proved instrumental in navigating a tumultuous period. Through structured sessions and tailored interventions, the individual learned to identify stressors and develop healthier responses to adversity. This experience underscored the transformative impact that dedicated support can have on one's overall quality of life. In a region like Texas, community-based initiatives and accessible mental health programs further reinforce the value of professional help. These efforts emphasize early intervention, preventive care, and continuous support, ensuring that more people are equipped to face life's inevitable challenges. Ultimately, investing in mental well-being is an act of self-care that yields lifelong benefits. By embracing professional support, individuals can unlock new levels of emotional resilience and discover pathways to a brighter, more balanced future. Each step taken toward healing represents a commitment to personal growth, enabling a life filled with renewed optimism and strength. Embracing this transformative journey consistently paves the way for deeper understanding, lasting peace, and meaningful personal progress.
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