Seeking a skilled therapist can be a step toward self-discovery and a satisfying life. Whether you want to manage life stress, overcome trauma, or improve your intimate relationships, a therapist can help you navigate life in a way that considers your unique preferences and emotional needs.
When looking for a therapist in Santa Monica, CA, it may be beneficial to consider telehealth services. Barriers to in-person therapy, like financial challenges, the hustle of a career in the business world, or a lack of available providers near you, may make it difficult to find support in your area. Many therapists aim to aid in the therapeutic process by offering convenient care from the client’s home.
Regardless of where you live in Los Angeles, whether it’s Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Hollywood, or another neighborhood, having at-home access to modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), sex therapy, and trauma-informed care may cut out an extra commute to appointments each week and reduce costs spent on parking and transportation.
The following licensed therapists, counselors, psychologists, and social workers offer internet-based mental healthcare in Santa Monica, CA. To learn more about a therapist, open their profile to read about their experience, areas of expertise, and licensure. You can also find reviews from clients who are living proof of the benefits of receiving mental healthcare online.
Betina Bolin
I have over 16 years of combined therapy experience at the professional level and believe in the profession that I am licensed in which is social work. I believe in a client-centered perspective and derive my approaches from a variety of treatment modalities. Cognitive behavioral is a significant framework that I utilize but I believe that other approaches are also effective as sessions need to be tailored to the unique needs of the individual or clientele being served. I believe in true empathy, truly trying to understand my clients' perspectives and their insight into their lives. Each person I have done therapy with over the years and will be doing therapy with has inherent worth, dignity and I believe in their abilities to improve in areas of self-direction and self-efficacy. Therapy is all about the client who is reading this right now, the therapist is simply a conduit to improve a person's ability to reorganize their life, to improve their internal locus of control, to help a client engage in goal-oriented behavior and be conscientious of the choices one is making in life on a regular basis. Cognitive behavioral methods consider irrational thought paradigms and help to counteract these cognitions or thoughts with more rational, counterbalancing, self-esteem enhancing thoughts and help a person to see the connections between thoughts, feelings, and behavior.
Jude Patton
I am an older out/open/proud transgender man. I have expertise and extensive experience in serving transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming clients. I prefer to serve my own community members, but do not discriminate against others. I am licensed as a therapist in California and Washington, as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), with 45 years of professional counseling experience. My professional background also includes having worked as a Psychiatric Physician Associate for 43 years, and as a sex educator and sex therapist. Before my career in human medicine and mental health, I worked for 20+ years as a Veterinary Medical Assistant and understand the value of animal companions and of the natural environment in supporting healthy living. I have experience in treating clients who have ADHD, an autism spectrum disorder, chronic pain/chronic illness, and/or end-of-life concerns, sleeping disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and depression. I believe that you are the expert on your own story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Making the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started. I am looking forward to working with you to find solutions to reach your goals in therapy.
Mie Lynn Tsuchimoto
I am a faith based LMFT, and I have been licensed in California with 26 years of professional psychotherapy experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also provide psychoeducational executive and professional leadership coaching. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Autumn Altamirano
Hello! My name is Autumn and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 9 years of experience providing therapy services. I have worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings including: private practice, outpatient, and school-based. I work with clients affected by depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, lack of motivation, life transitions, family conflicts, and relationship challenges. I was born and raised in Orange County, California, and currently reside in Nashville, Tennessee. I received an undergraduate degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California. I use a client-centered approach. This means that I begin where you are and view you as the experts on your life. It also means that you determine the direction and depth of therapy. I primarily use evidenced-based techniques, including: cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy. However, based on your needs/presenting problems, I may also incorporate attachment-based therapy and psychodynamic therapy. I would describe my style as warm, real, and supportive. For me, the therapeutic relationship is important. I want you to not only feel comfortable with me but also to trust me. Therapy requires one to be vulnerable, which doesn’t happen if there isn’t a good rapport and therapeutic alliance. Collaboration is also important. Together we will work on establishing goals and steps for you to help overcome your current problems. Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy playing soccer, watching sports, reading, cooking, spending time with my husband and children, and traveling to new places. Thank you for taking the time to learn about me! I look forward to helping you in any way I can!
Eric Aldaco
I am licensed in California with 14 years of professional work experience. I believe that you are the expert of your life journey and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am a Christian therapist and my approach to therapy is from a biblical perspective. I look forward in meeting you and collaboratively engaging in a strength base therapeutic model in treatment.
Kristin Perkins
I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Joseph Tillman
As a licensed therapist with extensive experience serving diverse communities in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address challenging life experiences, including depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and grief. I bring a compassionate and nuanced approach to therapy, particularly focusing on men's mental health, self-love, and healing from attachment wounds. My work is deeply rooted in understanding individual journeys of isolation, purpose, and personal transformation. Drawing from four decades of clinical experience, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions like guilt and shame, and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. My therapeutic style emphasizes empowerment, respect, and collaborative healing. I am committed to providing culturally responsive care that honors each person's unique background and lived experience. My goal is to support you in building resilience, understanding yourself more deeply, and creating positive change in your life.
Leslie Patt
I am licensed male therapist in California. I am not allowed to work with anyone not located in California during the therapy session. I have 30 plus years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients and couples with relationship issues, family conflicts, child abuse, & parenting issues. I have worked with families, teens and children in the Department of Mental Health and in Child Protective Services as well as an Adult Psychiatric Unit. I cared for my mother 24/7 for the last four years of her life. I cared for a couple in their 90s for the last four years of their lives. At the end I worked with the hospice team. 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. Those who are religious I address that when appropriate. Those who are not religious I never bring that up. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Melinda Olivas
I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
June Cichowicz
I am licensed in California with more than 20 years of professional counseling experience. My work began after completing graduate work at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety and depression, coping with relationship issues , and motivation and self esteem. My work includes assisting clients who are coping with life changes and transitions ( including serious illness, grief and loss). I completed a two year mental health fellowship at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles working with a broad and diverse client population from children to teens and adolescents, as well as adults with a variety of abilities and backgrounds. My personal life experience has served me well as a roadmap and path toward my goal of assisting others in managing life transitions and changes. It may surprise you to know that I find a sense of humor can be a helpful tool in many, but not all situations. You may ask why I do this work: My reward is the ability to be part of a goal oriented team with members/clients. It is a gift to have the opportunity to participate in the change process. 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, although you may not always be aware of that . Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and satisfying life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. June A. Cichowicz. M.S.S.W., L.C.S.W.
Fanshen Thompson
I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping individuals and couples with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence, but mostly I help people to clear the emotional muck that builds up over the years so that they can more clearly see who they authentically are and live from that place. I work with couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional intimacy with one another, while also clearing the muck that has built up in the relationship over the years. Let’s work together so you can see more clearly! Because everyone’s issues are unique, the pace, intensity, and details of clearing that muck are also unique. It starts with a collaborative and trusting relationship with your therapist. Feeling like you can be authentic and honestly share your thoughts and feelings is critical to making progress. But it’s not just sharing or talking. Therapy is also work. In addition to feeling, noticing, and recognizing what is under the muck, therapy is about taking small but meaningful steps toward the change you want. While, finally, showing yourself the compassion to heal. I look forward to supporting you in that healing.
Xenia Blanco
I am licensed in California with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, & abuse. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
John Bradford
I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Aruna Prabha Boyineni
I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I , being a first generation South Asian specialize in working with South Asian community. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Find a Therapist Near You in Santa Monica , California
Finding a licensed therapist near you in California can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in California, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in California (CA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across California, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across California with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California
When searching for a therapist near me in California, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across California, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across California.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in California want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in California without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in California (CA)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in California
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across California, including residents in Santa Monica.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in California do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.