Therapists in California
We list 23,406 therapists in 677 California cities and towns. Pick a city to compare them, or send one request and let local therapists come to you.
Cities in California
Smaller towns (201)
How to choose a therapist
Verify the license
Therapists are licensed by the state under titles such as licensed professional counselor, licensed clinical social worker, licensed marriage and family therapist, or psychologist. Look the person up on your state licensing board's website to confirm the license is active and to check for any disciplinary actions. Someone who calls themselves a life coach is not a licensed mental health provider.
Look for relevant experience
Ask whether the therapist regularly works with concerns like yours, such as anxiety, grief, relationship conflict or parenting stress. Ask which approaches they use and why. A good therapist will explain their approach in plain language and tell you honestly if someone else would be a better fit.
Sort out cost and insurance early
Ask whether the therapist is in network with your insurance, what the session fee is, and whether they offer a sliding scale. If they are out of network, ask for a superbill you can submit to your insurer for possible reimbursement. If you are paying without insurance, you have the right to ask for a written good faith estimate of your costs.
Book a short consultation call
Many therapists offer a brief phone or video call before the first session. Use it to ask questions, get a sense of their style, and see whether you feel comfortable talking with them. Feeling at ease with your therapist matters, so it is fine to talk with a few before choosing.
Know the warning signs
Be cautious of anyone who promises a quick cure, pressures you to prepay for a large package of sessions, or will not explain how they protect your privacy. A therapist should never pursue a personal, business or romantic relationship with a client. You can report concerns to your state licensing board.
What it typically costs
These are typical US price ranges for sessions paid without insurance, and actual fees vary by location, provider and your coverage.
Credentials, location and session length move the price, and some therapists offer a sliding scale based on income.
The first appointment is often longer than later sessions and may cost more.
Longer sessions cost more, and insurance often does not cover couples counseling, so ask before you book.
The length of the session and the therapist's training affect the fee.
Common questions
How do I know if I should see a therapist?
You do not need to be in crisis to see a therapist, and many people go when stress, sadness, worry or relationship problems start getting in the way of daily life. If something has been weighing on you for weeks, talking with a licensed professional is a reasonable next step. If you are thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline right away.
What is the difference between a therapist, a counselor and a psychologist?
The titles overlap, and the main differences are training and license type. Licensed counselors, clinical social workers and marriage and family therapists usually hold a master's degree, while psychologists hold a doctoral degree and can also do psychological testing. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication.
Does insurance cover therapy?
Many health insurance plans cover therapy, but coverage depends on your plan and whether the therapist is in network. Call the number on your insurance card to ask about your mental health benefits, copays and any limits on sessions. If a therapist is out of network, ask whether your plan pays back part of the cost.
Can I see a therapist online?
Yes, many therapists offer sessions by secure video or phone. In most cases the therapist must be licensed in the state where you are located during the session. Ask whether they offer online sessions and how they protect your privacy.
How do I find a therapist in your area?
Start with the therapists listed on this page for your area, and narrow the list by the kind of help you want, such as individual, couples or family counseling. Check each one's license with the state board and ask about insurance and fees. Contact two or three, and choose the one you feel most comfortable with.
What happens in the first therapy session?
The first session is mostly about getting to know each other, and the therapist will usually ask what brought you in, about your history and about your goals. You will also go over fees, privacy and how often to meet. It is a good time to ask your own questions and see whether the therapist feels like a good fit.