Therapists in California

Hello, My name is Angela Garcia. I am an LPCC and have been in the mental health field for about 11 years. My specialty and love is working with clients in the criminal justice system, and mental health/drug court. However, I love also working with all individuals to help them create opportunities to change their lives. I have gained a lot of experience working with a range of mental health challenges, including highly acute clients with significant diagnoses such as Bipolar and Schizophrenia. I am comfortable working in many settings and would describe myself as strength-based, and inclusive.
Hello, My name is Angela Garcia. I am an LPCC and have been in the mental health field for about 11 years. My specialty and love is working with clients in the criminal justice system, and mental health/drug court. However, I love also working with all individuals to help them create opportunities to change their lives. I have gained a lot of experience working with a range of mental health challenges, including highly acute clients with significant diagnoses such as Bipolar and Schizophrenia. I am comfortable working in many settings and would describe myself as strength-based, and inclusive.

Dr. Aponte is a forensic psychologist and owner of Aponte Forensic Psychology, a specialized practice providing forensic (criminal, civil) psychological evaluations, as well as trial consultation services and education / coaching for attorneys. Areas of assessment include psychopathology, personality, criminal responsibility/mitigation, mental status at the time of offense, competence to stand trial, violence risk, and sexual recidivism risk. She regularly provides expert witness testimony across the state of California.
Dr. Aponte is a forensic psychologist and owner of Aponte Forensic Psychology, a specialized practice providing forensic (criminal, civil) psychological evaluations, as well as trial consultation services and education / coaching for attorneys. Areas of assessment include psychopathology, personality, criminal responsibility/mitigation, mental status at the time of offense, competence to stand trial, violence risk, and sexual recidivism risk. She regularly provides expert witness testimony across the state of California.

I am a Licensed clinical social worker. My expertise lies in helping people learn to build healthier relationships with themselves and the people around them. My work focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habits, and negative beliefs that are holding you back from leading the life you were meant to live. I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals. I’m passionate about helping people who may be struggling with their relationship with food, everyday anxiety, depression, and narcissistic personality disorders. If you’re interested in scheduling with me, please send an appointment request.
I am a Licensed clinical social worker. My expertise lies in helping people learn to build healthier relationships with themselves and the people around them. My work focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habits, and negative beliefs that are holding you back from leading the life you were meant to live. I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals. I’m passionate about helping people who may be struggling with their relationship with food, everyday anxiety, depression, and narcissistic personality disorders. If you’re interested in scheduling with me, please send an appointment request.

Kristina Navarro Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here, taking the courageous step to prioritize your mental health. I specialize in treating developmental and complex trauma, drawing from years of experience in community mental health, intensive services, and residential care. In my private practice, I focus on supporting women and families impacted by trauma. My goal is to help heal fractured relationships, tend to deep wounds, and create a space where true healing and growth can take place. I bring a well-rounded approach to therapy, grounded in evidence-based techniques and deep empathy.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here, taking the courageous step to prioritize your mental health. I specialize in treating developmental and complex trauma, drawing from years of experience in community mental health, intensive services, and residential care. In my private practice, I focus on supporting women and families impacted by trauma. My goal is to help heal fractured relationships, tend to deep wounds, and create a space where true healing and growth can take place. I bring a well-rounded approach to therapy, grounded in evidence-based techniques and deep empathy.

I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, & interpersonal issues. I work primarily from a CBT & interpersonal framework focusing on understanding the different relationships in your life, your thoughts, and how they all shape your view of the world and your presenting concern. By understanding how our experiences affect our day-to-day life, we can learn to exert influence over them and manage much more comfortably. In therapy, you can expect to think and feel in new ways that will help you live a more fulfilling life.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, & interpersonal issues. I work primarily from a CBT & interpersonal framework focusing on understanding the different relationships in your life, your thoughts, and how they all shape your view of the world and your presenting concern. By understanding how our experiences affect our day-to-day life, we can learn to exert influence over them and manage much more comfortably. In therapy, you can expect to think and feel in new ways that will help you live a more fulfilling life.

Early relationships shape the way the mind and brain develop from our young years into our adult lives. Our connections with caregivers induce neural circuit firings that persist throughout our lives, shaping how we think, feel, remember, and behave. When we are lucky enough to have secure attachment experiences in which we feel seen, safe, soothed, and secure—the “four S’s of attachment” that serve as the foundation for a healthy mind—these relational experiences stimulate the neuronal activation and growth of the integrative fibers of the brain.
Early relationships shape the way the mind and brain develop from our young years into our adult lives. Our connections with caregivers induce neural circuit firings that persist throughout our lives, shaping how we think, feel, remember, and behave. When we are lucky enough to have secure attachment experiences in which we feel seen, safe, soothed, and secure—the “four S’s of attachment” that serve as the foundation for a healthy mind—these relational experiences stimulate the neuronal activation and growth of the integrative fibers of the brain.

Hello, I'm Ricardo Moran, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of California. I received my Masters from California State University, Northridge and have been practicing for five years.
Hello, I'm Ricardo Moran, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of California. I received my Masters from California State University, Northridge and have been practicing for five years.

Dr. Arlice Cleveland
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palmdale, CA 93551
I can assist and support you with problem-solving skills, traumas, and collaboratively work with you in obtaining new coping strategies for issues such as: Depression, anxiety, relational disruptions, unresolved childhood issues, stress management, and more. Many of my clients have shared that attending therapy with myself has helped them learn new techniques in self-management and personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and some of life daily stressors. I can work with you in achieving a fresh perspective on a difficult problem and help you identify your true authentic self.
I can assist and support you with problem-solving skills, traumas, and collaboratively work with you in obtaining new coping strategies for issues such as: Depression, anxiety, relational disruptions, unresolved childhood issues, stress management, and more. Many of my clients have shared that attending therapy with myself has helped them learn new techniques in self-management and personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and some of life daily stressors. I can work with you in achieving a fresh perspective on a difficult problem and help you identify your true authentic self.

Hi, I'm Tyler! I specialize in mental and behavioral health experiences brought on by medical challenges. I work with resilient individuals facing life-altering experiences such as chronic or terminal illness and end-of-life concerns. These challenges often bring up depression, anxiety, grief, fear, and stress. My job as your therapist is to help you tackle your goals and create a life based on your values and desires.
Hi, I'm Tyler! I specialize in mental and behavioral health experiences brought on by medical challenges. I work with resilient individuals facing life-altering experiences such as chronic or terminal illness and end-of-life concerns. These challenges often bring up depression, anxiety, grief, fear, and stress. My job as your therapist is to help you tackle your goals and create a life based on your values and desires.

I have thirty years experience helping people who are suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, relationship conflict, stress, and many other issues that take away from quality of life. My approach goes beyond plain talk therapy. My goal is to help you release old wounds, connect with your true inner self, and find your power. Whether you are completely new to therapy or have had many therapists and are discouraged with a lack of results, I am dedicated to listening and finding the right approach for you, the unique human that you are. I want to empower you to achieve your goals and live the fulfilling life that you deserve.
I have thirty years experience helping people who are suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, relationship conflict, stress, and many other issues that take away from quality of life. My approach goes beyond plain talk therapy. My goal is to help you release old wounds, connect with your true inner self, and find your power. Whether you are completely new to therapy or have had many therapists and are discouraged with a lack of results, I am dedicated to listening and finding the right approach for you, the unique human that you are. I want to empower you to achieve your goals and live the fulfilling life that you deserve.

Bob Basque
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Springs, CA 92262
You deserve a couples therapist who really gets you, your lifestyle, and what you need. It’s important to find someone who specializes in working with couples. If you're a gay or lesbian couple, you shouldn't have to go into detail about your identity or teach your therapist about it. The longer you put off dealing with problems in your relationship, the tougher it gets to fix things and get back on track. I’ve seen how reaching out for help early on can really help couples and avoid making things worse down the line.
You deserve a couples therapist who really gets you, your lifestyle, and what you need. It’s important to find someone who specializes in working with couples. If you're a gay or lesbian couple, you shouldn't have to go into detail about your identity or teach your therapist about it. The longer you put off dealing with problems in your relationship, the tougher it gets to fix things and get back on track. I’ve seen how reaching out for help early on can really help couples and avoid making things worse down the line.
Meet Our Therapists

Jorge Vargas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Are you stressed about recent or future changes to your life? Are you exploring a career change? Do you hesitate to reach out for help for fear of being judged or burdening others? Have you tried therapy in the past but are looking for sessions that are more conversational and engaging? In therapy, we can explore these issues with empathy, grace, and sensitivity to your personal identity. It is a privilege to join people committed to vulnerable and courageous healing journeys. Together we will gain insight, recognize unhelpful patterns, and practice coping skills to better deal with life’s stressors.
Are you stressed about recent or future changes to your life? Are you exploring a career change? Do you hesitate to reach out for help for fear of being judged or burdening others? Have you tried therapy in the past but are looking for sessions that are more conversational and engaging? In therapy, we can explore these issues with empathy, grace, and sensitivity to your personal identity. It is a privilege to join people committed to vulnerable and courageous healing journeys. Together we will gain insight, recognize unhelpful patterns, and practice coping skills to better deal with life’s stressors.

I support folks from all walks of life. Those who identify as LGBTQIA2S+, and those who are kinky, and/or poly, I welcome you. Sex workers, past and present, with me you are home. In session you will be seen, heard, and celebrated, free of judgement and shame. My goal is for you to feel understood and safe from the point of initial contact. Through our work together you will increase your understanding of self, build resiliency, and work to heal from the past with gentleness, boldness and self compassion.
I support folks from all walks of life. Those who identify as LGBTQIA2S+, and those who are kinky, and/or poly, I welcome you. Sex workers, past and present, with me you are home. In session you will be seen, heard, and celebrated, free of judgement and shame. My goal is for you to feel understood and safe from the point of initial contact. Through our work together you will increase your understanding of self, build resiliency, and work to heal from the past with gentleness, boldness and self compassion.

Samara Mallers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety related to self-esteem, imposter syndrome, perfectionism and people-pleasing tendencies. As collaborators, we will explore how your unconscious feelings and patterns are impacting you and your relationships.
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety related to self-esteem, imposter syndrome, perfectionism and people-pleasing tendencies. As collaborators, we will explore how your unconscious feelings and patterns are impacting you and your relationships.

The resiliency of people is always something that inspires me. It is my belief that each person is unique and has the potential to grow and change, all it takes is the desire and the commitment to do the work. As a therapist I have had the privilege of walking along side people and see these changes first hand, whether it's through an awaking of insight, breaking patterns of behavior, lifting of anxiety/depression, or deepening of relationships. Therapy is an intimate, empowering experience, and it is truly a beautiful thing to see people meet their goals and lead the lives they always wanted. Lets begin that journey together today.
The resiliency of people is always something that inspires me. It is my belief that each person is unique and has the potential to grow and change, all it takes is the desire and the commitment to do the work. As a therapist I have had the privilege of walking along side people and see these changes first hand, whether it's through an awaking of insight, breaking patterns of behavior, lifting of anxiety/depression, or deepening of relationships. Therapy is an intimate, empowering experience, and it is truly a beautiful thing to see people meet their goals and lead the lives they always wanted. Lets begin that journey together today.

Meeka Ferretta
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ukiah, CA 95482
Not accepting new clients
Hello, my name is Meeka Ferretta. Are current thoughts and emotions getting in the way of your potential? Is your relationship or divorce making you feel anxious or depressed? Is your ADHD causing you to be distracted? Are you wondering how to process trauma and heal? If so, I can help. I truly believe change happens with the first phone call. With a skilled therapist, this change can be impactful and sustainable.
Hello, my name is Meeka Ferretta. Are current thoughts and emotions getting in the way of your potential? Is your relationship or divorce making you feel anxious or depressed? Is your ADHD causing you to be distracted? Are you wondering how to process trauma and heal? If so, I can help. I truly believe change happens with the first phone call. With a skilled therapist, this change can be impactful and sustainable.

Looking for a psychologist is difficult. It is important to find someone who is a close match with your needs. I approach therapy with an active style, providing direct feedback in a supportive manner. For more than thirty years, I have been successfully helping individuals and couples through Emotionally Focused Therapy, find greater enjoyment in life. For therapy to work, I believe that the therapist needs to care about, and feel connected to, the individuals he or she works with. Psychotherapy is not just a job; helping people get better and live their life in a fuller happier way is something I strive for.
Looking for a psychologist is difficult. It is important to find someone who is a close match with your needs. I approach therapy with an active style, providing direct feedback in a supportive manner. For more than thirty years, I have been successfully helping individuals and couples through Emotionally Focused Therapy, find greater enjoyment in life. For therapy to work, I believe that the therapist needs to care about, and feel connected to, the individuals he or she works with. Psychotherapy is not just a job; helping people get better and live their life in a fuller happier way is something I strive for.

Hi there, I'm Rosa! My name is Rosa Gomez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over five years of experience as a clinician. I work with adults, adolescents, and children. I specialize in depression, anxiety, panic disorder, and trauma. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused interventions when working with the clients in order to assist them in improving their symptoms so they can live their best lives.
Hi there, I'm Rosa! My name is Rosa Gomez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over five years of experience as a clinician. I work with adults, adolescents, and children. I specialize in depression, anxiety, panic disorder, and trauma. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused interventions when working with the clients in order to assist them in improving their symptoms so they can live their best lives.

You're here because fully living the life you envision remains out of reach despite your best efforts. You know that something is getting in the way of achieving your passion & purpose. But you haven't yet found a way to get free of those blocks, or you're searching for ways to step fully into peak performance. As a therapist since 1974, I combine the best ingredients of conventional therapies with the speed of the newer "power" therapies (like EMDR & EFT) & an integrative health orientation. The result: you get faster more effective results & better solutions. Free phone consult.
You're here because fully living the life you envision remains out of reach despite your best efforts. You know that something is getting in the way of achieving your passion & purpose. But you haven't yet found a way to get free of those blocks, or you're searching for ways to step fully into peak performance. As a therapist since 1974, I combine the best ingredients of conventional therapies with the speed of the newer "power" therapies (like EMDR & EFT) & an integrative health orientation. The result: you get faster more effective results & better solutions. Free phone consult.

Life is hard and even harder when everyday feels like a struggle. You don't have to go through it alone. Therapy provides the space to battle your demons, face your fears and fill your tool kit. Your therapist acts as your confidante, your guide, your sounding board, your editor and your cheerleader.
Life is hard and even harder when everyday feels like a struggle. You don't have to go through it alone. Therapy provides the space to battle your demons, face your fears and fill your tool kit. Your therapist acts as your confidante, your guide, your sounding board, your editor and your cheerleader.
See more therapy options for California
How does your Therapist compare?
Average cost per session
$175
Therapists in California who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
75% | Relationship Issues |
72% | Self Esteem |
66% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Coping Skills |
64% | Stress |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
71% | Aetna |
62% | Cigna and Evernorth |
55% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in California see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | 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.