Therapists in California
![Photo of Maureen Finn, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9194e259-d910-4f78-88f4-fa3c1c5c6c1e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maureen Finn is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Masters in Counseling Psychology and a BA in Psychology. Seeking therapy can be a vulnerable experience. Maureen provides a warm and safe environment for you to explore your history and the factors that bring you into therapy. She is passionate about helping individuals create desired change in their lives while developing self-compassion and self-acceptance.
Maureen Finn is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Masters in Counseling Psychology and a BA in Psychology. Seeking therapy can be a vulnerable experience. Maureen provides a warm and safe environment for you to explore your history and the factors that bring you into therapy. She is passionate about helping individuals create desired change in their lives while developing self-compassion and self-acceptance.
![Photo of Jose Mottos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebbc229f-e4c0-44ce-93eb-b7aae21baf77/1/320x400.jpeg)
My training in working with various age groups ranging from 12 years to 90 years young has taught me that it is never too late to seek help. The theme that I have witnessed from my clients is that they want to experience joy, acceptance, and tranquility. I look forward to hearing from you and joining you on your journey toward the change you want to achieve.
My training in working with various age groups ranging from 12 years to 90 years young has taught me that it is never too late to seek help. The theme that I have witnessed from my clients is that they want to experience joy, acceptance, and tranquility. I look forward to hearing from you and joining you on your journey toward the change you want to achieve.
![Photo of Bianca Christian, ACSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0d8c997-6120-4b17-9969-98114425fe3f/1/320x400.jpeg)
The way in which a person cultivates their sense of self, self-esteem, and relationships with others, can be extremely important in their path to wellness. My goal is to meet every client where they are in their journey to mental health and wellness, which means we start where you are and not where I think you should be. I believe that everyone has the capacity to become their best selves and that my work is to provide a safe, helpful, and non-judgmental, environment for those who I am working with.
The way in which a person cultivates their sense of self, self-esteem, and relationships with others, can be extremely important in their path to wellness. My goal is to meet every client where they are in their journey to mental health and wellness, which means we start where you are and not where I think you should be. I believe that everyone has the capacity to become their best selves and that my work is to provide a safe, helpful, and non-judgmental, environment for those who I am working with.
![Photo of Gitty Meyers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fcfc6dc-7c70-4a12-86fc-1db907779e87/4/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I'm Gitty Meyers, a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years experience in education and prenatal/postnatal couple support. I believe in the power of listening, understanding your unique story, and collaboratively crafting a brighter future. My passion lies in understanding and addressing the unique challenges that each individual and couple faces. Whether you're a young person navigating the complexities of adolescence, an adult struggling with life's pressures and plot twists, or a parent seeking support for your child, I'm here to listen, learn, support, and help you reach your optimal zone of living.
Hi! I'm Gitty Meyers, a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years experience in education and prenatal/postnatal couple support. I believe in the power of listening, understanding your unique story, and collaboratively crafting a brighter future. My passion lies in understanding and addressing the unique challenges that each individual and couple faces. Whether you're a young person navigating the complexities of adolescence, an adult struggling with life's pressures and plot twists, or a parent seeking support for your child, I'm here to listen, learn, support, and help you reach your optimal zone of living.
![Photo of Taylor Stocki, ASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e33fc41-539c-45a2-a265-854250fc1d0b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Stocki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I view each of our lives as a journey of discovery: of the self, the world around us, and all the experiences that move through us. We are learning how to be who we are, how to be human, and how to traverse the terrain ahead of us. The journey brings with it a full range, from ecstatic bliss and deep peace to agonizing shame and despair, and everything between. Each individual’s journey is unique, yet we share some overlapping themes and needs. Perhaps we are seeking support along our journey, for further growth, healing, or connection with our authentic self and others.
I view each of our lives as a journey of discovery: of the self, the world around us, and all the experiences that move through us. We are learning how to be who we are, how to be human, and how to traverse the terrain ahead of us. The journey brings with it a full range, from ecstatic bliss and deep peace to agonizing shame and despair, and everything between. Each individual’s journey is unique, yet we share some overlapping themes and needs. Perhaps we are seeking support along our journey, for further growth, healing, or connection with our authentic self and others.
![Photo of Colleen Riedell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3a954c0-d375-4328-a768-18b32a31bf18/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Colleen Riedell, and I am a marriage and family therapist and I’ve been in practice for over 20 years. I see therapy as an opportunity to have a compassionate ear to listen to and support exploring things you want to change or struggle with. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and the concepts of attachment, addiction, and trauma recovery. I work with couples and individuals. I treat folks struggling with relationship issues, and mood disorders including depression and anxiety, trauma and addiction, and family dysfunction.
My name is Colleen Riedell, and I am a marriage and family therapist and I’ve been in practice for over 20 years. I see therapy as an opportunity to have a compassionate ear to listen to and support exploring things you want to change or struggle with. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and the concepts of attachment, addiction, and trauma recovery. I work with couples and individuals. I treat folks struggling with relationship issues, and mood disorders including depression and anxiety, trauma and addiction, and family dysfunction.
![Photo of Veronica Zarate, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32c754ed-97d6-490a-b184-02d89bde1ea3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Veronica Zarate is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2013. She has a BA from Cal State University of Los Angeles and an MFT from University of Phoenix. Veronica has worked with clients ages from 5 to 63 years old and is bilingual in Spanish and English. She has experience with working with clients with depression, anxiety, adjustment, and behavioral problems. Veronica provides individual and family sessions. Outside of work, Veronica likes to work out, implement self-care, and mindfulness. She loves to dance and spend time with family.
Veronica Zarate is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2013. She has a BA from Cal State University of Los Angeles and an MFT from University of Phoenix. Veronica has worked with clients ages from 5 to 63 years old and is bilingual in Spanish and English. She has experience with working with clients with depression, anxiety, adjustment, and behavioral problems. Veronica provides individual and family sessions. Outside of work, Veronica likes to work out, implement self-care, and mindfulness. She loves to dance and spend time with family.
![Photo of Bobby Dulai, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea0492a1-2d62-4be9-bcc6-cecb06036a88/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have immediate openings for couples and teens! Telling your story, and making space for the feelings, in front of another person is courageous and can be healing. The human experience is an exhausting one. Acknowledging its impact on your functioning, and where that comes from, can help you access the meaning and beauty life has to offer. My aim is to help you alleviate your pain by fostering a non-judgmental, safe space. With curiosity, we’ll explore your story to become more aware of your feelings and patterns of relating to yourself and to others toward deeper fulfillment.
I have immediate openings for couples and teens! Telling your story, and making space for the feelings, in front of another person is courageous and can be healing. The human experience is an exhausting one. Acknowledging its impact on your functioning, and where that comes from, can help you access the meaning and beauty life has to offer. My aim is to help you alleviate your pain by fostering a non-judgmental, safe space. With curiosity, we’ll explore your story to become more aware of your feelings and patterns of relating to yourself and to others toward deeper fulfillment.
![Photo of Rina Sharfstein, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4619754a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes things are not quite working as we had hoped in our lives or relationships, or we feel stuck, confused or sad and we’re not sure what to do about it. Perhaps you’ve contemplated speaking to a therapist about your struggles or considered couples therapy with your partner but, naturally, feel hesitant. Reaching out to a psychologist is a big step that can have a positive impact on our current challenges, our relationships and on our lives as a whole. While we can do some part of untangling our conflicts on our own or with thoughtful friends, a deep healing process is one that often requires an experienced professional.
Sometimes things are not quite working as we had hoped in our lives or relationships, or we feel stuck, confused or sad and we’re not sure what to do about it. Perhaps you’ve contemplated speaking to a therapist about your struggles or considered couples therapy with your partner but, naturally, feel hesitant. Reaching out to a psychologist is a big step that can have a positive impact on our current challenges, our relationships and on our lives as a whole. While we can do some part of untangling our conflicts on our own or with thoughtful friends, a deep healing process is one that often requires an experienced professional.
![Photo of Lauren Dollarhide, MS, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e295cc58-8825-4e55-8865-57fcede984fe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Dollarhide
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93704 (Online Only)
I believe that in order to become better versions of ourselves, we need to first work towards healing and processing our past wounds. Sometimes our wounds and past traumas can hold us back from being better partners, parents, and individuals. It is important for me to provide you with a safe and nurturing environment to heal and grow. My focus throughout the past years has been providing culturally responsive care as well as LGBTQIA2+ affirming care while working with clients toward their goals, building upon their strengths, and facilitating an environment for growth toward self-acceptance and self-empowerment.
I believe that in order to become better versions of ourselves, we need to first work towards healing and processing our past wounds. Sometimes our wounds and past traumas can hold us back from being better partners, parents, and individuals. It is important for me to provide you with a safe and nurturing environment to heal and grow. My focus throughout the past years has been providing culturally responsive care as well as LGBTQIA2+ affirming care while working with clients toward their goals, building upon their strengths, and facilitating an environment for growth toward self-acceptance and self-empowerment.
Our life’s experiences inform who we are, what we believe and how we act. From our early years through today the filter we see life through informs our well being. By fine tuning your lens you see the truth of who you really are. By identifying and removing your barriers you become one with your essence
Our life’s experiences inform who we are, what we believe and how we act. From our early years through today the filter we see life through informs our well being. By fine tuning your lens you see the truth of who you really are. By identifying and removing your barriers you become one with your essence
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![Photo of Dr. Nicole Hayes, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40722172-6cde-4839-9212-41e460ab7963/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Los Angeles, CA. I specialize in helping people live more present and successful lives and heal from depression, anxiety, body image concerns, self-esteem issues and much more. I also have extensive experience working with adolescents and young adults as they navigate transition periods in life. I also offer ADHD testing to kids (8+), teens, and adults. If you've been curious about an ADHD diagnosis, reach out to me!
I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Los Angeles, CA. I specialize in helping people live more present and successful lives and heal from depression, anxiety, body image concerns, self-esteem issues and much more. I also have extensive experience working with adolescents and young adults as they navigate transition periods in life. I also offer ADHD testing to kids (8+), teens, and adults. If you've been curious about an ADHD diagnosis, reach out to me!
![Photo of Carson Cozad, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c82416b9-c924-4eb9-a955-17e5fa71ab81/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carson Cozad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (Online Only)
My background in mental health and substance abuse treatment has allowed me to provide specialty care to those touched by these issues. My clients are the experts and I am here to help decode the messages in symptoms like anxiety and depression. Change, grief, and natural human development poke at unhealed parts and I see my work as providing a space for that healing. I believe that being listened to and understood is where that healing begins.
My background in mental health and substance abuse treatment has allowed me to provide specialty care to those touched by these issues. My clients are the experts and I am here to help decode the messages in symptoms like anxiety and depression. Change, grief, and natural human development poke at unhealed parts and I see my work as providing a space for that healing. I believe that being listened to and understood is where that healing begins.
![Photo of David Lindquist, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54c0f28e-770a-43b9-b1f7-5f62452534a7/3/320x400.jpeg)
David Lindquist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
David treats anxiety related problems including Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Phobias, Social Anxiety, Tics and Tourette’s Syndrome, Dermatillomania, (skin picking) and Trichotillomania (hair pulling). David is well versed in Family Systems and the use of cognitive and behavioral strategies for treating attention deficit disorders, depression, anxiety, autism and child and adolescent behavioral issues, both school and home related. He has extensive experience treating adults with panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression and anxiety.
David treats anxiety related problems including Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Phobias, Social Anxiety, Tics and Tourette’s Syndrome, Dermatillomania, (skin picking) and Trichotillomania (hair pulling). David is well versed in Family Systems and the use of cognitive and behavioral strategies for treating attention deficit disorders, depression, anxiety, autism and child and adolescent behavioral issues, both school and home related. He has extensive experience treating adults with panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression and anxiety.
![Photo of Joan Cantor Backer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d30c5e02-e8e3-4c59-ae4e-7cf08950b0ae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joan Cantor Backer, LMFT,I am committed to helping others gain an understanding and acceptance of temselves; realize their full potential, and achieve their goals. I specialize in treating individuals , couples, women, and parenting.
Joan Cantor Backer, LMFT,I am committed to helping others gain an understanding and acceptance of temselves; realize their full potential, and achieve their goals. I specialize in treating individuals , couples, women, and parenting.
![Photo of Lisa M Kelsey, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43449922-6b0b-4427-9fc4-5c7a9597888c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy means many different things to different people. For some it is a journey of growth, self-awareness, and healing. For others it is necessary for them to survive. For some it is something they are mandated to do, and for many it is something they really want to do. No matter where you fall on this spectrum, I am here to support you through your process. Therapy is about where you are, where you want to go, what you want to explore, and joining you on your experience. I am here to listen, to guide you, focus you, support you and push you when needed.
Therapy means many different things to different people. For some it is a journey of growth, self-awareness, and healing. For others it is necessary for them to survive. For some it is something they are mandated to do, and for many it is something they really want to do. No matter where you fall on this spectrum, I am here to support you through your process. Therapy is about where you are, where you want to go, what you want to explore, and joining you on your experience. I am here to listen, to guide you, focus you, support you and push you when needed.
![Photo of Harvey Cohen, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45045b6b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that people come into counseling or psychotherapy for a variety of reasons from loss to personal growth. Change and transitions can be difficult. I bring a unique blend of over 25 years of experience as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Professor of Psychology, and California state provider of continue education for therapists and social workers. I believe we are on our path of personal growth. Fear, anxiety, and depression can both slow and inform this process. I work in the here and now, but realize the importance of how our childhood experience has impacted the way we feel, think, and behave.
I believe that people come into counseling or psychotherapy for a variety of reasons from loss to personal growth. Change and transitions can be difficult. I bring a unique blend of over 25 years of experience as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Professor of Psychology, and California state provider of continue education for therapists and social workers. I believe we are on our path of personal growth. Fear, anxiety, and depression can both slow and inform this process. I work in the here and now, but realize the importance of how our childhood experience has impacted the way we feel, think, and behave.
![Photo of Melissa Burnidge Gould, MS, EdS, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f01e9bd-a41a-4f9b-9b47-4c765717288a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Burnidge Gould
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, EdS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008
I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a specialty in anxiety. My practice is anchored in evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I've seen the positive impact on my clients of well-delivered therapy in the context of a compassionate therapeutic relationship which is why I'm firmly grounded in this approach.
I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a specialty in anxiety. My practice is anchored in evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I've seen the positive impact on my clients of well-delivered therapy in the context of a compassionate therapeutic relationship which is why I'm firmly grounded in this approach.
![Photo of Ashari Wallace, MSW, ACSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe8af383-eb23-4902-8cfd-ff6ebdafe245/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashari Wallace
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Village, CA 91607 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am an African American/Black woman. I believe that representation matters in mental health services, especially as stigmas around mental health are being addressed as Black people/people of color are seeking therapy more often in today’s society. I am an Associate Clinical Social Work and received my Master of Social Work degree from Simmons University. My goal when working with my clients is to help you (the client and/or your family) learn how to better manage the symptoms and behaviors you experience while developing and maintaining positive coping skills. I am passionate about helping young women and young adults.
I am an African American/Black woman. I believe that representation matters in mental health services, especially as stigmas around mental health are being addressed as Black people/people of color are seeking therapy more often in today’s society. I am an Associate Clinical Social Work and received my Master of Social Work degree from Simmons University. My goal when working with my clients is to help you (the client and/or your family) learn how to better manage the symptoms and behaviors you experience while developing and maintaining positive coping skills. I am passionate about helping young women and young adults.
![Photo of Ladybird Daniel, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2fcd486d-ae74-49ae-a3b7-bc43ee835f79/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ladybird Daniel is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with extensive experience treating PTSD, attachment challenges, ADHD, mood disorders, severe anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, self-harming behaviors, relationship issues, parent-child conflict, bereavement, adoption, and life transitions.
Ladybird Daniel is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with extensive experience treating PTSD, attachment challenges, ADHD, mood disorders, severe anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, self-harming behaviors, relationship issues, parent-child conflict, bereavement, adoption, and life transitions.
See more therapy options for California
How does your Therapist compare?
Average cost per session
$175
Therapists in California who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
76% | Relationship Issues |
72% | Self Esteem |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | Coping Skills |
64% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
67% | Aetna |
60% | Cigna and Evernorth |
56% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in California see their clients
68% | In Person and Online | |
32% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in California?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.