Depression, anxiety disorders, and other mental health conditions that negatively impact well-being are on the rise everywhere. Finding the right therapist can be a daunting task, even in an area as populated as Los Angeles county. But finding a therapist in Los Angeles, CA may have become easier with the growing network of online therapy. An online platform like BetterHelp can streamline the process, and has over 30,000 licensed mental health professionals that specialize in a range of therapies for diverse populations. Multicultural counselors for racial-based trauma, LGBTQ+ friendly therapists who work with all sexual orientations and gender identities, therapy for victims of abuse, and much more. 

It can be easy to feel stuck in life, but therapy clients often learn the skills needed to manage stress, promote self-growth and self-actualization, and lead a healthy and fulfilling life. With the wide variety of licensed professionals in the BetterHelp network, finding the therapist that matches your personal needs can be far less stressful than looking for a local in-person therapist. Most people are matched with a therapist within 48 hours, and have the option to switch therapists for free until they find their ideal match. Sessions can be scheduled around your time, and you can participate from the comfort of your own home. 

For those in the Los Angeles or Culver City area looking for therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy for mental health challenges, or simply to learn more about yourself, many have found great success in online therapy platforms such as BetterHelp. Their licensed professionals can offer the tools needed to learn to manage stress, heal from trauma, and become your best self.

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Donny Simpson

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
AddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuse
6 years of experience

My name is Donny Simpson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I graduated with a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Grand Canyon University in 2012 and Bachelor's Degree in Human Services from Cal State Fullerton. I was most recently a Child Welfare Social Worker and continue to manage Social Workers in Children and Family Services. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I have worked with clients with a broad range of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship/marital and family problems, work-related stress and issues unique to the LGBT community. I also specialize in working with families involved in the Child Welfare system including reunification and/or adoption. It is my priority to maintain a judgment-free space, a space that is challenging but comforting, and a process that is enlightening as well as retrospective. My approach to therapy is laidback and conversational while providing goal-directed treatment using a combination of Cognitive and Solution Focused Therapy. I take a collaborative and supportive stance in my approach to therapy and I have been told that I am comfortable to be with and easy to talk to. All treatment is planned with the goal in mind and progress is made toward reaching that goal. I look forward to working with you!

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Renate Kohlmann

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
25 years of experience

Hello and Welcome! Congratulations on taking the first step towards feeling better! Whatever the issue or issues are you wish to work on, it takes courage to make that first move. My name is Renate Kohlmann, and I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 24 years. My approach is always client-centered and supportive. Because everyone's needs are different, I do incorporate different therapy styles into my approach as needed - psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral are two that come to mind. If you are interested in learning more and seeing if we are a good fit, please contact me! Specialties: Anxiety and Stress Depression Relationship Issues Family Conflict Intimacy Issues Coping with Life Issues Self Esteem Career Difficulties Addiction Disorders Chronic Illness

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Frank Pavone

Offering therapy in CA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger management
17 years of experience

Hello here is summary of my experience and approach to therapeutic counseling; My experience as a clinical social worker for over 25 years includes working in the prevention and treatment of family violence, victim advocacy for survivors of sexual assault and to assist individuals experiencing depression, loss and grief. I have assisted individuals and families struggling with communication and conflict issues and provided counseling for youth as part of court ordered diversion related to behavior problems in school and at home, truancy, substance abuse, adjustment problems divorce and family separations. My approach to counseling is client centered and solution focused in a collaborative approach to assisting clients in identifying key concerns in an atmosphere based in mutual respect. I take a holistic approach to therapy taking in account environmental, cultural and familial influences identifying client strengths and motivation for change. Treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral, Rational Emotive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy with focus in identifying and changing negative thinking patterns, incorporating techniques such as mindfulness and meditation. Thank you for taking the time to review my bio and commend you for making the first step in seeking help. I am comfortable using either video teleconferencing ,telephone, live chat or messaging in conducting therapy sessions depending on your preference. I look forward to hearing from you!

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Rodney Lackey

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesAnger managementDepression
60 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 60 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & anger management. 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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Kelly Smith

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW-R
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
26 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker licensed in NY with over twenty five years of experience working as a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor. I have worked with people with a wide range of situations and circumstances including but not limited to depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, parenting, OCD, ADHD, and LGBTQ+ related challenges . I have also helped many individuals who have experienced trauma . My therapy style is warm, interactive and engaging. I believe feeling validated is key in a persons life as well as being treated with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and family systems modalities. I will tailor our dialogue and professional partnership to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support you on your journey of empowerment. I look forward to working with you!

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Joshua Mondary

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & 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!

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This is Elena Zacarias de Palacios's avatar and link to their profile

Elena Zacarias de Palacios

Offering therapy in CA
Trauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & 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!

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This is Priscilla Lane's avatar and link to their profile

Priscilla Lane

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Shelly Boismenu

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

For over twenty years, I have provided women with the support and therapeutic guidance they need to change the parts of their lives that are no longer working or serving them. I specialize in relationship issues, self-confidence and self-worth struggles, divorce, narcissistic abuse and high conflict co-parenting and custody issues. Together, we will explore the themes and patterns that brought you to this point and work together to learn new ways to think, feel and respond, creating the life you want for yourself beyond this current moment. Do not wait to get support. Every day counts.

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This is Monica Blandford's avatar and link to their profile

Monica Blandford

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed as an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience supporting clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, 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, I am simply there to help you find your path. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling, happy life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support and empower you on that journey.

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How to find counseling in Los Angeles

Finding the best therapist close by in Los Angeles can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Los Angeles. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Los Angeles, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Los Angeles or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Los Angeles area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Los Angeles, elsewhere in Los Angeles, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Los Angeles area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Los Angeles therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Los Angeles due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Los Angeles may not take health insurance, some in the state of California may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Los Angeles, California working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Los Angeles above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Los Angeles helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Los Angeles therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Los Angeles therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Los Angeles therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in CA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 91403 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Los Angeles counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, 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 feedback and advice. A Los Angeles licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Los Angeles, California can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Los Angeles has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Los Angeles.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Los Angeles:

90001, 90002, 90003, 90004, 90005, 90006, 90007, 90008, 90009, 90010, 90011, 90012, 90013, 90014, 90015, 90016, 90017, 90018, 90019, 90020, 90021, 90023, 90024, 90025, 90026, 90027, 90028, 90029, 90030, 90031, 90032, 90033, 90034, 90035, 90036, 90037, 90038, 90039, 90041, 90042, 90043, 90044, 90045, 90046, 90047, 90048, 90049, 90050, 90051, 90053, 90054, 90055, 90057, 90058, 90059, 90061, 90062, 90063, 90064, 90065, 90066, 90067, 90068, 90069, 90070, 90071, 90072, 90074, 90075, 90076, 90077, 90078, 90079, 90080, 90081, 90082, 90083, 90084, 90086, 90087, 90088, 90089, 90090, 90093, 90094, 90095, 90099, 90189, 90210, 90213, 90230, 90247, 90248, 90272, 90291, 90292, 90293, 90294, 90296, 90402, 90501, 90502, 90710, 90731, 90732, 90733, 90734, 90744, 90748, 91040, 91041, 91042, 91043, 91303, 91304, 91305, 91306, 91307, 91308, 91309, 91311, 91313, 91316, 91324, 91325, 91326, 91327, 91328, 91329, 91330, 91331, 91333, 91334, 91335, 91337, 91340, 91342, 91343, 91344, 91345, 91346, 91352, 91353, 91356, 91357, 91364, 91365, 91367, 91371, 91392, 91393, 91394, 91395, 91396, 91401, 91402, 91403, 91404, 91405, 91406, 91407, 91408, 91409, 91410, 91411, 91412, 91413, 91416, 91423, 91426, 91436, 91470, 91482, 91495, 91496, 91499, 91601, 91602, 91603, 91604, 91605, 91606, 91607, 91608, 91609, 91610, 91611, 91612, 91614, 91615, 91616, 91617, 91618

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