Find a therapist in California
If you're not sure where to start, Octave can match you with a therapist in California based on your needs and preferences, making it easier to move forward with confidence.
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High Satisfaction Rate
Safi Lynch Wilson
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Cultural Issues/Racial Stress +6 moreSeeking support can be an important first step, and I’m glad you’re here. I work with individuals, couples, and families navigating depression, anxiety, stress, and major life transitions, including relationship changes, career shifts, and personal loss. As a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW), I take a collaborative, solution-focused approach, creating a safe and supportive space where you can better understand yourself, build effective coping strategies, and feel more supported in your daily life.Next available:Mon Sep 14 @ 10AM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Joseph Madrid
LCSW
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in ADHD, Anxiety +7 moreI believe all people should have the opportunity to reach their full potential, contribute to society, and have a voice. I have worked in a spectrum of services including inpatient/outpatient behavioral health services at St. Joseph Hospital, at-risk youth programs, worker compensation system, and longer-term outpatient treatment settings as well as private practice. I am a therapist that empowers clients by using an integrative approach, and matching evidence-based treatments that will be individualized to each client's needs.Next available:Wed Sep 16 @ 9PM
- Get A Cost Estimate
Get a detailed cost estimate
We can determine what you can expect to pay for therapy sessions by looking up your plan information.
It typically takes less than a minute.
Heather St. Jean-Garcia
LMFT
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in Anxiety, Depression +6 moreI am a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I support my clients in developing self-awareness and insight to create a balance between mind, body, and spirit. I take a client-centered/humanistic approach in therapy, collaborating with my clients to help create positive change. I use a strength-based approach to empower clients in developing strong coping skills. I strive to provide a safe and non-judgmental atmosphere where my clients can open up and talk.Next available:Thu Sep 17 @ 5PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Melissa Ortega
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in ADHD, Anxiety +8 moreI’m Melissa “Elle” Ortega (she/her), a licensed clinical social worker. I support adults navigating life transitions—whether that’s disability, identity shifts, relationship challenges, breakups, or everyday stress. My approach is supportive, collaborative, and grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and solution-focused therapy. So, come as you are, you don't have to do it alone, we’ll face it together.Next available:Mon Sep 14 @ 4PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Carla Francis
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Caregiver Burnout +7 moreAre you finding it hard to get through the day without sadness, anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, or frustration that makes it difficult to enjoy or balance daily life? Are you struggling to feel good about yourself? If you’re reading this, you’ve already taken a brave step toward caring for yourself, and that’s huge. Seeking therapy or asking for help can be difficult, so I want you to know I’m proud of you for taking this step. I’m here to support you as you continue moving forward.Next available:Mon Sep 14 @ 11PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Natalie Arballo
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in ADHD, Anger Issues +12 moreI have many years of experience in a variety of mental health settings with diverse populations. I am versed in treatments that have recorded evidence of being effective evidence-based approaches. I believe that change happens when people are given the guidance and support they need to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live fulfilling, happy lives. Therefore, I believe that attaining and maintaining mental health is a collaborative process between you, your support network, and your provider. You are the expert on your own life experiences, symptoms, and what has worked well for you in the past. I would like to thank you in advance for allowing me to be a part of bringing a greater sense of well-being to your life.Next available:Wed Sep 16 @ 12AM
High Satisfaction Rate
Gregory Western
PSYD
Virtual
Specializes in Addiction (not substance use), Anxiety +10 moreI specialize in active therapy, focusing on learning skills to navigate the challenges life brings. Setting specific goals related to concerns heard and aligning steadily with the patient is the priority at the beginning. In the middle of treatment, continued focus on solutions for goals and measuring what is working becomes a focus. Seeing people meet their goals and grow toward a realistic outcome in therapy and life is an incredible experience. In working in a clinical setting for 19 years, I feel confident direction of the treatment shows itself naturally, with good questions. As a seasoned clinician, asking the right questions helps me get to specific goals to be checked on the way to the end.Next available:Thu Sep 17 @ 4PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Kristin Kitagawa
LMFT
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Burnout +11 moreA therapeutic relationship is personal. Finding the right style and fit is crucial, and clients often know internally what is or isn’t working for them. I encourage clients to find that fit, whether with me or another provider. As a clinician and former elementary school teacher, I work from a growth-driven place of compassion, directness, and some humor along the way. The goal is to build coping skills, insight, and emotional independence so that, eventually, my assistance is no longer needed.Next available:Mon Sep 14 @ 10PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Gaby Pena
LMFT
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in Adoption/Foster Care, Anxiety +9 moreSpeaks SpanishI offer bilingual therapy services in English and Spanish for individuals and couples. I use a range of treatment modalities to best support each client’s unique needs. I’m experienced with Child and Family Services court orders and have worked with anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. I’m committed to providing effective, compassionate care and offer both in-person and virtual sessions to ensure accessibility and convenience.Next available:Thu Sep 17 @ 4PM
Manoj Sharma
LMFT
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in Anger Issues, Anxiety +10 moreSpeaks HindiI am a dedicated therapist who works with individuals facing anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I use a compassionate, client-centered approach to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, build resilience, and achieve lasting change. I am also passionate about supporting diverse populations, honoring each person’s unique cultural background. I look forward to partnering with you on your path to wellness.Next available:Sun Sep 13 @ 5PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Marianna Jakucska
LMFT
Virtual
Specializes in Anger Issues, Anxiety +9 moreSpeaks HungarianYou may respond to stress with anxiety, depression, or anger, or you can unleash your creativity. I help you understand how your mind behaves to keep you safe so you can be proactive rather than reactive. I interactively combine practicality, spirituality, humor, and the visual power of movies. I help you strengthen the grip on your behavior and rediscover your sense of purpose. Together we will view your threats as opportunities for growth. I support highly perceptive individuals. I'm a strong supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and bring new cultural perspectives as an immigrant from Hungary.Next available:Mon Sep 14 @ 8PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Lani Espinas
LMFT
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in Addiction (not substance use), ADHD +17 moreI was trained in brief, short-term therapy—because we all want quick results. I’m interactive with clients and don’t just provide “talk therapy.” We’ll co-create a plan to help you achieve positive results. I hold clients accountable and assign homework, as I believe lasting change takes work beyond weekly sessions. I’ll offer input, impressions, and gently challenge you when defenses arise. At the same time, I’ll provide positive regard, reflective listening, and be your cheerleader. I aim to empower you—not enable you.Next available:Wed Sep 16 @ 4PM
- Get A Cost Estimate
Get a detailed cost estimate
We can determine what you can expect to pay for therapy sessions by looking up your plan information.
It typically takes less than a minute.
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Esperanza Salazar
LMFT
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Depression +2 moreI guide individuals and teach coping skills specifically tailored to meet their mental and emotional needs while increasing the ability to better cope with life challenges. I believe in practicing a “here and now” approach (Gestalt) accompanied by a compassionate and Strength-Based style that encourages the practice of mindfulness. I commonly integrate multiple therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational interviewing (MI) Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).Next available:Tue Sep 15 @ 2AM
High Satisfaction Rate
Margo Rankins
LMFT
Virtual
Specializes in ADHD, Anxiety +6 moreMy counseling style is very warm and interactive. I treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe in meeting everyone where they are, within their own unique experiences, and provide a safe, non-judgmental space to work on self-healing.Next available:Tue Sep 15 @ 2AM
High Satisfaction Rate
Sharon Chung
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in ADHD, Anxiety +12 moreI take a structured, goal-oriented approach to help clients make lasting changes in their lives. I focus on what is meaningful to my clients—whether that’s improving relationships, reducing anxiety, building confidence, or navigating life transitions. My work draws from evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support meaningful growth. I also integrate insights from Attachment Theory, the Enneagram, and Love Languages to deepen self-awareness and help clients better understand their patterns in relationships and daily life. My goal is to offer practical tools and compassionate guidance.Next available:Mon Sep 14 @ 5PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Kierra Tims
LPCC
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Depression +5 moreI believe therapy is relational, like having a guided conversation with a peer, where there is no judgment. Early sessions focus on getting to know you, and over time, the process becomes more organic. I use directed questions and prompts to help you explore your thoughts and feelings more deeply. I draw on evidence-based approaches to support individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and related challenges, helping them build insight, coping skills, and meaningful change.Next available:Sun Sep 13 @ 12PM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Joe Fierro
LMFT
Virtual
Specializes in Anger Issues, Anxiety +8 moreThroughout my 14+ years of experience, I've worked with people of all races and cultural backgrounds. I've honed my expertise in helping clients work through anxiety, depression, grief, loss, enculturation, and stress management. I believe in the human potential for healing, growth, and change. Throughout my sessions, I like to help clients identify their successes, interests, and talents. I support clients in practicing new behaviors and strategies in between sessions as a way to reinforce what is discussed and practiced in sessions, and to support their growing self-confidence for change.Next available:Mon Sep 14 @ 6PM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Claire Karp
LMFT
Virtual
Specializes in Anger Issues, Anxiety +11 moreI have been in part-time private practice for the last five years. I have twenty years of experience establishing and overseeing services to various communities in Southern California. I like to find client strengths and build on them, identify naturally occurring supports so that between therapy sessions the client has support to continue on progress made. I believe that life is 10% what happens and 90% how you perceive it. I use Cognitive Behavioral techniques to identify thought distortion and utilize fact-checking to dispel thoughts not based on fact. Thoughts trigger feelings which trigger behaviors. So let's start at the root. ID unproductive thoughts and replace them with fact-based thoughts. My goal is to give you skills that go beyond your time with me. Life may not get easier but we can work together to make you stronger.Next available:Tue Sep 15 @ 6PM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Johnny Morataya
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in Anger Issues, Anxiety +12 moreSpeaks SpanishMy approach to therapy is to create a secure and comfortable space for anyone to address their mental health needs and concerns; I am not here to judge but to understand and help. My goal is to meet you where you are and collaboratively work towards the goals that you set. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as a treatment modality to aid in processing thoughts and feelings with regard to certain stressors and identify helpful coping skills.Next available:Sun Sep 13 @ 2PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Lashandra Davis
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Couples Therapy (2+ adults in session) +8 moreMy name is Lashandra Davis, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with adults, individuals, couples, and families, helping clients navigate life’s challenges with compassion, clarity, and practical tools. My focus includes interpersonal challenges, grief and loss, strengthening self-esteem and self-worth, and improving relationships. I create a safe, supportive space where healing can happen, believing that people grow when they are seen, heard, and supported without judgment. My purpose as a therapist is to ensure my clients don’t suffer in silence.Next available:Sat Sep 19 @ 3PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Christina Covarrubias
LCSW
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in ADHD, Anger Issues +19 moreSpeaks SpanishI am a licensed clinical social worker who values the power of healing through self-discovery. I enjoy the outdoors, physical fitness, and fostering closeness in interpersonal relationships. I am passionate about helping others understand themselves and work toward personal growth. My style is collaborative, sharing insights thoughtfully, and partnering with you to find effective solutions through open, nonjudgmental dialogue while clarifying expectations along the way.Next available:Thu Sep 17 @ 9PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Justin Wong
LMFT
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Burnout +8 moreWhether you are looking for help through a challenging situation or feel stuck in an unhealthy pattern, we can work together towards personal growth and well-being. I am a strong believer in taking an active approach to feeling better. Having better control over your mood can often seem hopeless, but you can make things better. Achieving a healthier approach to the way you think, make decisions, and relate to others can help clear a path towards a new direction in your life. My goal is to work with you to uncover the thinking patterns that have gotten in the way of you living a fulfilling and joyful life.Next available:Sun Sep 13 @ 4PM
- Get A Cost Estimate
Get a detailed cost estimate
We can determine what you can expect to pay for therapy sessions by looking up your plan information.
It typically takes less than a minute.
High Satisfaction Rate
Fariba Mansouri
PHD
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Burnout +13 moreSpeaks PersianIf a person has grown up without much care or consideration for their uniqueness or has gone through personal trauma and tragedy as an adult, psychotherapy can help. Psychotherapy can be a way to increase our life satisfaction and to regain a sense of aliveness. In a non-judgmental and compassionate space, we can start a conversation about what matters in life. In therapy, we talk about life’s problems with no criticism or blame. Often our conversation helps to release emotions and to reflect inwardly. One might begin to see life from a different perspective and access the solutions to life’s problems. The overall benefit is to gain freedom from negativity and to feel more joy in life and relationships.Next available:Mon Sep 14 @ 8PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Lorena Bessemer
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in ADHD, Anxiety +6 moreSpeaks SpanishI specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) while also drawing from other modalities as needed, depending on where the client is. I aim for strengths-based, goal-driven, short-term solution-focused, and client-centered approaches while obtaining client perspective and feedback throughout the course of services. My goal is to facilitate and empower you towards improved functioning, with self-discovery and reflection through psychodynamic practice using honest, non-judgmental, and compassionate services.Next available:Mon Sep 14 @ 10PM
High Satisfaction Rate
John Kim
LMFT
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in Anxiety, Couples Therapy (2+ adults in session) +10 moreI treat depression, anxiety, couple conflicts, motivation issues, and career issues. I hope to help you get from getting by to getting well, to get from mere coping to full on thriving.Next available:Mon Sep 14 @ 6PM
Frequently asked questions about therapists in California
What matters for your care is that your therapist is licensed in the state where you live. To see an Octave therapist, you are matched with a clinician licensed in California, whether you meet online or in person. Some licenses fall under interstate agreements that let a therapist practice in more than one state, but you never have to sort that out yourself. Octave confirms every therapist is licensed to work with California residents before matching you.
To practice in California, a therapist must hold an active California license. That means completing a master's or doctoral degree in a mental health field, finishing thousands of hours of supervised clinical work, and passing a national or state licensing exam. Licenses are renewed on a schedule and require ongoing education. Every Octave therapist practicing in California holds a current California license, reviewed by our clinical team before they join.
California therapists practice under several license types, most commonly Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT), and Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC). You may also work with psychologists who hold a PhD or PsyD. All are qualified to provide talk therapy, and the right fit depends on what you want to work on more than the letters after their name. Octave works with licensed therapists across these credentials in California.
Yes. If your Octave therapist in California is not the right fit, you can switch at any time at no additional cost. Finding the right match matters more than getting it right on the first try, and it is common to need a session or two to know. Just let us know and we will help you find another licensed California therapist who suits your needs.
No. You do not need a diagnosis, a referral, or a specific reason to start therapy in California. Many people see a California therapist to work through stress, relationships, life changes, or feelings that are hard to name. Your therapist focuses on your goals and what you want to get out of care, not on putting a label on you.
Start with what you want to work on, then look for a California therapist whose experience and approach match. Practical fit counts too: whether they take your insurance, their availability, and whether you feel comfortable with them. With Octave, you answer a few questions during intake and get matched with a licensed California therapist who fits your needs, so you do not have to sort through directories on your own.
Look for an active California license, which confirms the therapist has met the education, training, and exam requirements to practice in California. Common credentials include LCSW, LMFT, and LPC, along with psychologists who hold a PhD or PsyD. Beyond the license, check that their experience lines up with what you want to work on. Every Octave therapist in California is licensed and reviewed for credentials, experience, and clinical approach before joining the platform.
In everyday use, "therapist" and "counselor" often mean the same thing: a trained professional who provides talk therapy. Both can be licensed to treat mental health concerns, and what matters most is their license, training, and experience, not the title they use. Octave connects you with licensed California therapists whose background fits what you are looking for.
A therapist provides talk therapy to help you work through thoughts, feelings, and behavior. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose conditions and prescribe medication. Some people work with both. Octave provides therapy in California, and if medication is something you want to explore, your therapist can talk it through with you and help coordinate care with an outside prescriber.
"Therapist" is a broad term for any licensed professional who provides talk therapy. A psychologist is one kind of therapist, someone with a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) who may also do psychological testing. Both provide therapy, and for most people the choice comes down to fit and experience rather than the specific degree. Octave works with licensed California therapists across these backgrounds.
The most important things are a valid California license, experience with what you want to work on, and an approach you feel comfortable with. Practical details matter too: whether they are in-network with your insurance, how soon they are available, and whether you connect with them in early sessions. Octave weighs these factors when matching you with a licensed California therapist, so you are paired with someone who fits both your needs and your schedule.