Therapy can be a way to find new beginnings, whether you’ve experienced trauma or are interested in career counseling to find your dream job. A therapist can offer a wide range of tools to improve communication, change behavior, manage stress, and achieve personal goals. 

When it comes to finding a therapist, Chico, CA may offer more opportunities than surrounding rural areas, but finding the right therapist can be more complicated than simply reaching out to the nearest clinic. One reason for this is that within the field of psychotherapy, there are many evidence-based therapeutic approaches that target different treatment goals. For example, a therapist that specializes in issues related to eating disorders may not be the right match for someone experiencing delusional behaviors. Just like traditional medicine, psychology has specialization. What you need may not be available nearby. 

This is where online therapy can help. BetterHelp is a platform that offers access to North Valley counseling professionals who specialize in a variety of modalities and have experience working with diverse populations. Simply fill out an online questionnaire and BetterHelp will match you with a therapist that meets your individual needs. And because therapeutic success can depend on your ability to feel comfortable sharing during sessions, if you need to switch therapists at any time you can do so at no additional cost. 

If you live in the Chico, CA area and are interested in learning more about how online therapy can help, whether you’re dealing with conflict, are interested in recovery from addiction, or want to focus on self-discovery, check out the profiles below. These California-licensed professionals can get you started on your mental health and wellness journey. 

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Psychologist Stacey Sugar providing different types of therapy in Chico

Stacey Sugar

Clinician
License Type(s): MD LCPC LC4288, CA LPCC 10045
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
14 years offering treatment

“Anyone can tell you what to do, but the true ability to grow comes from understanding who you are.” In 15 years of clinical practice, I've realized that within our uniqueness, we have one thing in common: We are all constantly writing our life stories. Many of us are passive biographers, believing that our book is already written, and that the ending is set in stone. Here's the secret: Our lives are not linear, and we have the power to edit our narrative at any--and every--moment. While we cannot change our past, we can learn to change our perspective of it. Once we unlock our unconscious defenses, we gain insight about who we've become and unleash the potential to transform into who we authentically want to be. When entering any new relationship, it is perfectly healthy--and encouraged-- to take the time you need to test it out and make sure it feels right. I promise to meet you where you are, and provide you with the tools to explore yourself deeper and make transformations at your own pace. I will support you to find the strength and motivation that will allow you to be more open and committed to making the changes you desire. In our time together, we will explore the full range of your emotions, including feelings that you may not be aware of--yet! Bringing these unconscious elements into your present experience offers you a series of a-ha moments that lay the foundation for greater self-awareness and enable you to live your best life. If you're ready to dig deep, it is my honor to join you on your journey. Let's remove the barriers that are blocking you from realizing your wants, needs, and actualizing your full potential!

Psychologist Alexander Yoo providing different types of therapy in Chico

Alexander Yoo

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 102886
Mental Wellness Specialties: LGBTTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changesCoaching
26 years offering treatment

Hello! You may not know me yet, but I'm looking forward to getting to know you. I use a change-oriented approach with a bent toward meaning-making and "the big questions" of life. I don't think BetterHelp really has the tools to do in-depth therapy work. Therefore, I tend to see my role here as more of a life coach. So for example, on any given day, would you like me to 1) listen and/or 2) give advice/feedback/opinions. It depends on what you’re needing in the moment. I'd like for you to get some relief and clarity in your life. Whatever your goals, or the life transitions you want to better understand, I can help you, regardless of your culture, your background, your politics, philosophy, or past. (Note: I am also an ordained clergyperson with a Master of Divinity MDiv degree, and a hospice chaplain. Faith/religion/spirituality or no, if you want to integrate that into our talks, great. If not, also great. I'm well-versed in many religions and philosophical approaches to existence, including "alternative" belief systems.) Talk soon, Alexander Yoo, MDiv, MA, LMFT

Psychologist Patricia Riley providing different types of therapy in Chico

Patricia Riley

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 25356
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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.

Psychologist Mark Daniels providing different types of therapy in Chico

Mark Daniels

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 9713
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
43 years offering treatment

Hello, my name is Mark A. Daniels, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have over 45 years of direct clinical experience in the public and private sector. I have worked with consumers with a wide range of challenges and concerns that include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, career issues, and anger management. I also have expertise working with culturally diverse consumers, and consumers who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. I have also worked extensively with consumers within the forensic psychiatric arena including state prisons, county jails, and state hospitals. My therapeutic interventions are supportive, interactive, validating, and nonjudgmental. I embrace treating everyone with respect, compassion and with unconditional positive regard. My approach combines cognitive behavioral interventions, humanistic, mindfulness, and psychosocial interventions. I will tailor our dialogue, and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Everyone has value and are important in life's journey, sometimes we need to share each other's strength to make it from Monday to Tuesday. Congratulations on your decision to seek empowerment and to enhance your current emotional being. I appreciate your courage and look forward to assisting you on this journey. Together we will work to access your inner strength, wisdom and talent to help you become stronger and better than ever before. You don't have to do this alone. Sincerely, Mark A. Daniels, LCSW

Psychologist Jehalin Anandam providing different types of therapy in Chico

Jehalin Anandam

Clinician
License Type(s): OK LPC LPC04569, CA LPCC 18704
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefAnger managementDepression
15 years offering treatment

Hi my name is Jehalin, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist with 13 years of experience working with adults, children, adolescents, and families from various walks of life. I have experience with helping people who are experiencing various hardships in life and difficulty adjusting, as well as people experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, mood disorders, etc. I am known for being a good listener, caring, accepting, and compassionate, regardless of the challenges one might be experiencing. The therapeutic approaches I use is cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused, client centered, play therapy, reality therapy, mindfulness, and more. My desire is to help you achieve your goals by providing a safe, authentic, and compassionate clinical setting with an individualized therapy experience. Please let me know how I may assist.

Psychologist Cynthia Langley providing different types of therapy in Chico

Cynthia Langley

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 9211
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
45 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 45 years of professional work experience. My expertise comes from working with the Department of Mental Health in LA County ( worked with the mobile Psychiatric Evaluation Team, hospitalized suicidal, and homicidal patients; provided psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults; worked with persons in individual and group therapy experiencing symptoms from depressive disorders, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse and child abuse); medical social work in the acute care and LTAC hospital settings; and home health settings; adoptions and foster care; provided case management and housing services to homeless persons in LA County; managed a cash pay and insurance private practice; and provided clinical supervision to numerous social work, psychology, and marriage and family interns. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. NOTE: BE ADVISED THAT I DO FILL OUT A CLIENT QUESTIONNAIRE ON THE FIRST SESSION. IT IS A PART OF MY CLINICAL HISTORY TAKING ON A CLIENT. I do work with clients from various racial and ethnic backgrounds. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage. I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Chauncey Chatman providing different types of therapy in Chico

Chauncey Chatman

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 45560
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
15 years offering treatment

I have over 15 years of experience providing therapy services to adolescents, couples, families and adults. My approach is a combination of collaborative talk therapy with a strong emphasis on mindfulness practices that foster self-awareness and behavior modification that result in more positive outcomes. My approach: My approach also includes active use of the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused therapy. I currently work with individual adult clients. I have worked as a School Counselor/Case Manager and Marriage and Family Therapist in various hospital and mental health clinic treatment settings in California to include work as a member of mental health treatment service teams that included psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, peer counselors and family service workers. I earned a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. I am licensed in the State of California as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I also hold certification as a Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor (SUDCC).

Psychologist Eric Aldaco providing different types of therapy in Chico

Eric Aldaco

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 116682
Mental Wellness Specialties: Self esteemCoping with life changes
16 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Matthew Poje providing different types of therapy in Chico

Matthew Poje

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 11515, WI LPC 4911-125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuse
20 years offering treatment

Welcome! My name is Matt Poje, LPCC. I specialize in the healing of emotional trauma, using the Instinctual Trauma Response method (ITR). I have 15 years working with Veterans via Department of Defense contracts, and over 23 yrs of professional work experience. I am licensed in CA and WI. The ITR method uses over 100 years of neuroscience to help heal the brain. Since ITR uses neuroscience, you will learn the steps of the ITR method that will help you to become more resilient. ITR is not talk therapy in the classical sense. ITR is a focused, purposeful method of trauma healing and proven to work. If you are ready to work on a proven method of reducing symptoms of trauma, I look forward to work with you. I do not perform diagnostic tests. I use screening tools, and therefore will not provide any letters to employers or court systems. Before scheduling a session, watch the ITR video: https://vimeo.com/752151441

Psychologist Dr. Cynthia Curnan providing different types of therapy in Chico

Dr. Cynthia Curnan

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 29820
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issues
32 years offering treatment

About Dr Cynthia Before I went to school to become a psychotherapist, I was a teacher of Inner Guidance. I also taught the curriculum to become a teacher of Inner Guidance. We all have powerful internal senses that we tend to neglect: intuition, insight, instinct, imagination and deeper intelligence that grows sharper the more we use it. Too often, our personal growth becomes confined at the surface of ourselves by the effects of childhood trauma and how we’re raised. Sometimes we don’t know there is so much more to us. Once we develop accurate self-knowledge and learn what part of us is doing our thinking and making our decisions, then self mastery is within reach. I help people unravel their personal predicaments and develop self mastery. Once we become more greatly empowered - we are equipped to know what we want in life and how to manifest it. I received my CA license (lmft2980) in 1992, received my PhD in psychology in 1996. I wrote/published a book, “The Care and Feeding of Perfectionists “, 1998. Often we spot perfectionism in others but cannot recognize it ourselves. Many of us believe the Perfectionist is the best part of us, when really, it prevents us from liking ourselves. Each of us have at least 2 types of perfectionism (9 types in my book). If not neutralized, it blocks our growth by convincing us that we are not good enough. I help people replace perfectionism with a free internal Gift. The inner drive toward Excellence- which springs from the Self - is a beautiful world away from the pain of perfectionism- which is a push from a wounded ego. Once we connect to our Inner Self, we see ourselves and our world as it really is. Then life, healing and accomplishments can become wondrous easy. Methods I use besides talk therapy: Identifying and healing trauma Conscious breathing Dream analysis Focused meditation Inner Guidance Inner Child work The necessity for humor. EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprogramming.) FLASH (offshoot of EMDR) Interactive hypnotherapy Developing self knowledge Dismantling perfectionism Becoming present and living in the moment Accepting personal power Goal setting Couples Counseling

Psychologist Earl Barrios providing different types of therapy in Chico

Earl Barrios

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 229
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
38 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 36 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Harriett Bay providing different types of therapy in Chico

Harriett Bay

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 13725
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
40 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

Psychologist Eustacia Joseph providing different types of therapy in Chico

Eustacia Joseph

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 135568, FL LCSW SW18379
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficulties
4 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with career difficulties. 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.

Psychologist Brandi Scott providing different types of therapy in Chico

Brandi Scott

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 44167
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
25 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with over two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional journey has been dedicated to helping clients work through depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and anger management challenges. I approach each therapeutic relationship with compassion, deep listening, and evidence-based strategies tailored to your unique experiences and needs. My practice is rooted in creating a safe, supportive environment where you can explore your emotions, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. I believe in empowering clients to discover their inner strengths and develop practical coping skills that support lasting emotional well-being. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I offer a collaborative, non-judgmental approach that honors your individual journey. Whether you're struggling with life transitions, emotional pain, or seeking personal development, I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine care and professional expertise.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Chico, California

Finding a therapist near you in Chico, California starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you. 

The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In California, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.

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 can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.

Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In California, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.

Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in California

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. 

You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.

Therapists near you in California

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across California, including residents in Chico.

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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

Is online therapy effective?

Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.

How quickly can I start therapy?

You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.

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 discreet?

Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.

Find a Therapist in Chico, California

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Chico and the surrounding CA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

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