Finding a therapist in California can be challenging. Even in some of the biggest California cities, barriers to treatment, like concerns about cost or a lack of available providers, can make finding in-person therapy 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 and meet your highest potential. From young adults needing help managing the effects of ADHD to seniors struggling to heal from events of the past, therapists can help adults of any age navigate the challenges in their lives and learn how 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 and learn more about the benefits of online treatment.

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Percival Fisher, Jr.

Offering therapy in California
License: MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

Greetings, Everyone! I'm Percival Fisher, Jr., but you can simply call me "Percy." With 13 years of experience, I've been dedicated to providing both individual and group psychotherapy. My goal is to assist you in achieving your therapy objectives by creating a safe, warm, and interactive space to explore your presenting issues. I bring expertise in addressing a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, "coming out"/LGBTQIA-related issues, and family conflicts. To tailor the therapeutic experience to your unique needs, I employ a diverse set of treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Harm Reduction, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Crisis Intervention, and Relational Therapeutic techniques. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Florida, North Carolina, California, Oregon, Arizona, Washington (LICSW), and West Virginia (LICSW), I am also a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (BCD) by the American Board of Examiners in Clinical Social Work. Additionally, I hold certifications as a Certified Complex Trauma Professional (CCTP-II) from the International Association of Trauma Professionals and a Certified Case Manager (CCM) from the Commission for Case Management Certification. Beyond psychotherapy, my background spans behavioral health research, HIV/AIDS education and counseling, teaching, medical social work, and leadership. During my leisure time, I indulge in watching Marvel series on Netflix, psychological thrillers, reading, traveling, engaging in conversations about current events related to mental health, and staying active through workouts. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to work with you and support your journey. Take care! Percival Fisher, Jr., MSW, LCSW-C. LICSW, LCSW, BCD, CCTP-II, CCM

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Linda Vermeulen

Offering therapy in California
License: MS MFCC,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepressionCompassion fatigue
28 years of experience

From Dreams to The Shadow, the Enneagram to the Imago, clients use their therapy hour to connect to their unconscious, and help discover strengths and weakness. I use the Jungian styled psychodynamic approach, and I work with your Enneagram type and Inner Child dynamics to help drive your life forward. I will help you process anxiety and the stressors that come with changes in your family life, by using many different modalities: mindfulness, feeling work, couples Imago therapy. I work to help you access personal themes toward achieving your individuation. Clients who work with me will learn how to identify and love their Inner Child, use Discovery Logs, and process the Persona, to lead to wholeness of Self. I teach you how to accept yourself, and forgive the past. Psychodynamic work is longer term than most approaches, but don't let that scare you!

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Dina Velazquez

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

Hello, my name is Dina Velazquez and I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist currently living on the east coast. I have over ten years experience as a therapist, in both the Community Mental Health model and doing clinical assessments for a health insurance carrier. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling at Pacifica Graduate Institue in Carpinteria, CA. My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, and substance use issues. My approach is client centered while also incorporating the use of other skills including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, solution focused and some Cognitive Behavioral therapies. I feel that each of our experiences are unique, and may require different avenues to attain wellness. Also experienced in: Addictions , LGBT , Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Physical Disabilities, Coping with life changes

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Dr. Barbara Prosniewski

Offering therapy in California
License: PhD,M. Ed.
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
20 years of experience

I have been working with children and parents and individuals for many years. My approach to therapy is one of respect, compassion and a bit of tough love when it is needed. You need to feel that I am genuinely trying to help you and care for you. I try to normalize, as much as possible, the emotional circumstances under which you are coming to therapy. None of us are perfect. None of us have come through life unscathed. We also have certain strengths. We have all made mistakes. We have all become stuck in our thinking and with our feelings. Often communication breaks down. Here is where we learn different strategies and, as a result, become stronger, more capable and more fulfilled. I do also like to bring some humor into our sessions, when appropriate, as laughter is good for the soul and does help us gain a different perspective on the situation and ourselves.

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Regina Phelps

Offering therapy in California
License: LMFT
Family conflictsCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California. I have been working in the social services field for approximately 25 years, and have been a licensed therapist since 2012. I have experience conducting individual, couples and group therapy, in both residential and outpatient settings. Clients I see have presented with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, relationship and parenting issues, grief/loss, addiction, trauma, and dealing with life’s transitions. My approach to therapy is person/client centered in nature, meaning that I start new therapeutic relationships by making every effort to meet each person "where they are" and to serve as a support for each individual who is progressing through their own unique process of self-discovery and personal growth. In my work with clients, I use some of the leading psychological modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy. I will also use elements of Narrative, Strategic, and Family Systems approaches as appropriate. Clinical Approaches: • Solution Focused Therapy • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) • Motivational Interviewing • Twelve Step support • Psychodynamic Interventions SPECIALTIES • Relationship issues • Stress and Anxiety • Addictions and Codependency • Grief and Loss • Transitions/Life changes Also experienced in: • Parenting issues • Self-esteem • Work w/ Military/Veterans/First Responders My Educational Credentials include: - Licensed by the State of California, Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) - California State University, Fresno Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology - Trained in Psychological First Aid I believe in creating a space where we can have difficult conversations, work on resolving issues and collaborate on treatment plans that are tailored to your personal needs and experiences. I appreciate the courage and motivation needed to reach out for additional support, and I want to thank you for trusting me to assist as you work through your personal challenges. I look forward to working with you!

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Heather Tolle

Offering therapy in California
License: LISW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in the state of Ohio with a Master of Social Work Degree from the University of Louisville and four-years post graduate professional experience. After graduating with my master's, I began working in community mental health as a level three treatment specialist and coordinating care between physicians and clients of various ages, genders, sexuality, ethnicities, issues, and level of functioning. For the past two and a half years, I have been working in a private practice setting where I gain more experience in providing psychotherapy to individuals on issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships issues, family issues, grief, adjustment and phase of life issues, and issues of faith and spirituality. I have over 30 hours of training in providing teletherapy and am a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider with experience using video and text therapy. My therapeutic style is person-centered and often solution focused while incorporating a cognitive behavioral approach. Past clients have described delivery of therapy as warm, empathic, and down-to-earth, which I believe nurtures a safe and relaxing environment for individuals to identify their thoughts and feelings, as well as gain insight into their issues and solutions to help them resolve issues. It is my belief that even though it is hard to do at times, I believe one of the best methods of healing is to talk and let it all out – all of the hurt, all of the sadness, all of the things that get buried within – and therapy is one of the safest places to do that. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for adults and couples to reveal, feel, and heal their thoughts and emotions and gain insight and support during difficult times.

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Willie Denard

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
5 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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Michele Corgiat

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Sherrod Floyd

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Cecilia Carr

Offering therapy in California
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with over 6 years of experience providing therapeutic services to children, youth and families. I have helped clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

How can therapists in California support you?

Therapists in California 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 California, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for licensed professionals in California 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 does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why are many residents in the state of California working with a licensed counselor?

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 in California, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

Mental health counselors in California support clients with varying issues, which can include:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression or depressive conditions
  • Adjustment issues
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma
  • Relationship conflicts and concerns

Finding a therapist 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

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

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some commonly asked questions can be found below.

How much does a therapist cost?

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

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. 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.

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.

How do I know if I should get a therapist?

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.

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 in California can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does insurance cover therapy?

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.

Is online therapy safe?

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.

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