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.
Paul Tambini
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Cultural Issues/Racial Stress +7 moreThe care I provide is highly personalized—never one-size-fits-all. I take a collaborative, humanistic approach grounded in empathy and curiosity. Using evidence-based methods such as CBT, mindfulness, and trauma-informed care, I help you uncover patterns, build insight, and create lasting change. Clients appreciate my active, engaging style and often share that they feel deeply respected and understood. Together, we’ll clarify your values, strengthen your resilience, and help you live with greater purpose and intention.Next available:Sat Sep 26 @ 3PM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
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 Oct 1 @ 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
Monica Flores
LMFT
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Burnout +7 moreSpeaks SpanishAs a bilingual therapist with over a decade of experience, I'm dedicated to guiding individuals through challenges like depression, anxiety, life transitions, and conflict, as well as helping them process daily stressors. My approach is client-centered, believing you're the expert on your own life; I act as a coach, helping you achieve your goals. Our sessions are comfortable yet effective, integrating evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness to help you find clarity, peace, and lasting positive change.Next available:Thu Oct 1 @ 8PM
High Satisfaction Rate
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:Mon Sep 28 @ 8PM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Neil Hopper
LPCC
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Burnout +10 moreI work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, unresolved trauma, and substance use challenges. However you show up, we will create a plan to help you reclaim your life. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Brainspotting. My style is grounded in empathy, compassion, and humor. Therapy is a space for deep healing and authentic connection—sometimes you will laugh, and sometimes you may cry. I offer honest feedback and compassionate guidance in a space where you can finally feel safe.Next available:Tue Sep 29 @ 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:Tue Sep 29 @ 7PM
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 28 @ 11PM
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 28 @ 8PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Alberto Serrano-Brothers
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Burnout +7 moreSpeaks SpanishI obtained my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California. I am working on getting a Ph.D. in Psychology with an emphasis on Performance, as I am committed to a lifetime of professional growth and development. During my internship at the Department of Mental Health and Harbor UCLA, I was trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I believe each individual is unique, and I use an eclectic approach when developing interventions for my clients.Next available:Thu Oct 1 @ 6PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Melania Palor
LPCC
Virtual
Specializes in Animal Loss, Anxiety +11 moreSpeaks ArmenianAs a therapist, I take pride in creating a space where clients can explore, heal, and process their thoughts and feelings in a safe, welcoming, and encouraging environment. At my core, I am a relational therapist who will bring in a Strength-Based approach and incorporate mindfulness into sessions as well. It is important for me to meet my clients where they are, and collaborate with them so they get the most out of their time in therapy. With well over a decade’s worth of experience, and meeting clients at various moments in their lives, I find myself being more of a guide in the therapeutic process than anything else. I do incorporate the various training I have received in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy over the years to help bolster and empower my clients to create adaptive skills that allow them to be their most authentic selves.Next available:Wed Sep 30 @ 7PM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Katherine Fan
LMFT
Virtual
Specializes in ADHD, Anxiety +12 moreI am passionate about helping clients work through challenges by creating a comfortable environment where they feel safe to explore and process hardships. I believe that it is necessary for there to be respect, sensitivity, and compassion within the therapeutic relationship for treatment to be effective. I use a person-centered approach to treatment and do my best to tailor treatment to meet each client’s needs.Next available:Tue Sep 29 @ 8PM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Ashley Robinson
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Caregiver Burnout +8 moreI specialize in working with BIPOC facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, family conflict, relationship issues, stress, difficulties with work, and chronic illness. Therapy can be intimidating and scary. My goal is to create an authentic, safe, calm, fun, and comforting environment where clients can develop tools to navigate obstacles and stressors. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strengths-based Therapy, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing, we will focus on your overall well-being and work towards creating a happy, healthier you.Next available:Sat Sep 26 @ 3PM
- 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.
Karen Camargo
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Individual Therapy +3 moreI’m a bilingual (English and Spanish), EMDR-certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing telehealth services in New York and California. I work with a wide range of clients across ages and needs in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Together, we’ll identify your inner strengths, potential, and available resources. I use a client-centered approach to support your physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being, helping us focus on your strengths and overall wellness—not just acute symptoms.Next available:Sat Sep 26 @ 4PM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Maria Cruz
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Burnout +15 moreSpeaks SpanishOver the years, I have worked with diverse populations, tailoring interventions to address the unique needs of each client. With an extensive background in clinical social work, I have honed my skills in providing compassionate and evidence-based therapy for individuals facing a range of mental health challenges. My approach integrates a variety of therapeutic modalities to empower individuals to navigate and overcome the complexities of their mental health journey.Next available:Mon Sep 28 @ 7PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Kathleen Donahue
LMFT
Virtual
Specializes in Anger Issues, Animal Loss +15 moreI really enjoy working with people who can freely speak their minds, and share about their childhoods and current lives. I have found that being practical, understanding, and honest while utilizing Solution-focused therapy, Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing give people results to their challenges. It also gives them an opportunity to look at what they have the ability to change, and what they do not. These practices help people move forward and accept themselves, for who they are, and all of the gifts they have been given in this life.Next available:Mon Sep 28 @ 7PM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Jessica Flowers-Guerrero
LMFT
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Burnout +9 moreI became licensed in May 2020 and have worked in a handful of outpatient and hospital settings within my community since 2013, specializing in helping individuals and families navigate issues such as depression, anxiety, anger, perinatal mood disorders, substance use, behavioral issues, parenting issues, women's issues, and trauma. I use a collaborative approach with my clients while providing a warm and nurturing space for healing and growth to take place. I cater to my clients' individual needs and often employ various evidence-based treatment strategies that can be helpful for authentic, sustainable, and positive change. I believe that for my clients to have space for growth, they need an environment that is trusting, non-judgmental, validating, and supportive. In working with me, I hope that my clients will feel seen, heard, and understood. My ultimate goal is to help my clients feel empowered to live the life they desire and achieve alignment with who they are, balance, and overall wellness.Next available:Mon Sep 28 @ 8PM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Talacey Cox
LMFT
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in Anxiety, Burnout +9 moreNavigating your daily life may be hard and you may feel like you do not have the skills to cope in your daily life. I believe coming to therapy should offer relief from your overwhelming feelings or behaviors, by enhancing your natural abilities to manage these things and by teaching effective coping strategies. I utilize a collective approach focusing on your situation and what you need. I believe in a therapeutic environment that involves warmth, non-judgmental care, and openness to growth and change no matter what approach or counseling theory I am applying.Next available:Mon Sep 28 @ 7PM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Jessica Ojeda
LMFT
Virtual
Specializes in Anger Issues, Anxiety +7 moreSpeaks SpanishI am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that has provided psychotherapy, family therapy, and group services in English and Spanish for over nine years. I work with adults and families specializing in mental health and/or co-occurring disorders including depression, anxiety, trauma, and chemical dependency. I utilize evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and brief therapy to help you decrease symptoms while developing more meaningful life experiences. My goal is to work with you in a collaborative manner to increase your self-awareness and develop healthy coping skills and problem-solving capabilities while using and developing your personal strengths.Next available:Wed Sep 30 @ 6PM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Stephanie Wejbe
LCSW
Virtual & In-Person
Specializes in Anxiety, Burnout +8 moreMy practice is rooted in helping individuals feel more empowered in their health and healing. I often support individuals in the Latine community, as well as women navigating identity, life transitions, and anxiety. I approach this work with cultural sensitivity and an understanding of each person’s unique story and lived experience. My approach is both structured and compassionate with attention on building accessible skills while encouraging personal growth. Through mind-body practices such as nutrition and movement alongside integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and creativity, I help individuals connect with their inner strengths and resilience.Next available:Tue Sep 29 @ 8PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Domenique LaBeau
LMFT
Virtual
Specializes in Anger Issues, Anxiety +11 moreI support individuals, couples, and families navigating identity, intimacy, communication, and life transitions. My approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness, enriched by sex therapy-informed care, somatic practices, and attachment-based work. I'm a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP) continuing my education to become a Certified Sex and Couples Therapist to support both relationship and individual needs with sexuality, intimacy, and pleasure. I create a nonjudgmental space for clients to explore gender, sexuality, and relationship dynamics with openness and clarity. Together, we build tools to reduce distress, strengthen connection, and support long-term emotional growth.Next available:Fri Oct 2 @ 6PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Alysha Aiello
LCSW
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Depression +4 moreMy therapy style is warm, collaborative, and authentic. I create a supportive space where you feel heard and understood while encouraging growth at your own pace. My approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, and inclusive, honoring your unique story and experiences. Clients describe me as compassionate and non-judgmental, and I often use humor or cultural references to keep therapy approachable. Together, we’ll build insight and tools to support meaningful change.Next available:Tue Sep 29 @ 9PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Diane Mouradian
LMFT
Virtual
Specializes in Adoption/Foster Care, Animal Loss +14 moreSpeaks SpanishI have extensive experience working with clients dealing with anxiety and trauma-related symptoms. Coupled with my background in coaching, I will engage you in two ways: 1) a look back at the conditions that contributed to your current distress and 2) a look forward to defining how you want to shape your future. I am bilingual, bi-literate, and bi-cultural (English-Spanish) and have worked with diverse populations both in the US and abroad. This has allowed me to develop a high level of attunement to the needs and challenges that people may face based on their diverse and unique backgrounds.Next available:Mon Sep 28 @ 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.
High Satisfaction Rate
Kaela Pangburn
LMFT
Virtual
Specializes in Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder +7 moreI will work with you to help you understand how you function internally and externally. I value clients reclaiming power over their bodies and lives. I can assist you in building a greater capacity for self-awareness and regulation. I provide an honest and empathetic approach to treatment.Next available:Tue Sep 29 @ 5PM
Lasting Relationships with Clients
Asish Purushan
LMFT
Virtual
Specializes in ADHD, Anger Issues +20 moreSpeaks Malayalam, TamilMy approach to therapy involves a balance between helping clients explore past experiences and identifying how these experiences may affect them in the present. I often use culturally sensitive tools in my practice while working closely with my clients and operate from within an anti-oppressive and anti-racist framework. I work primarily from a client-centered model and specialize in an eclectic therapeutic approach, incorporating elements from various methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness-based psychotherapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with the Board of Behavioral Sciences in California, bringing over 7 years of experience working with individuals and couples. Above all, I emphasize the importance of a strong and compassionate therapeutic relationship.Next available:Tue Sep 29 @ 6PM
High Satisfaction Rate
Nicole Coffelt
PSYD
Virtual
Specializes in Addiction (not substance use), Anxiety +13 moreI am a highly intuitive psychologist and professional artist with experience in both private practice and top-tier academic medical settings (e.g., UCSF, Stanford University Medical Center). My style is affirming, holistic, empowering, and warm. As a multi-ethnic, queer therapist, I especially enjoy working with LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. I meet you where you are, offering a deeply attuned, supportive presence to help you navigate major life transitions and times of personal upheaval.Next available:Tue Sep 29 @ 8PM
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.