Therapists that accept Cash Pay in California

Choosing a cash pay option for mental health care can provide flexibility and access to quality support without the constraints of insurance networks. With 335 verified therapists in California who accept cash pay, you can explore therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and supportive counseling to address a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist that has a cash pay option listed below is currently welcoming new clients and has availability soon, offering you a straightforward path to compassionate, accessible care on your terms.

Availability updated: 8/8/2026

$175/session

Authentic
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

LGBTQ
Anxiety
Spirituality
+8
Hi! California and Arizona licensed therapist (LMFT, LPCC) with a holistic approach. I received two Masters degrees in Psychology, and been working for 10 years in the mental health field, and 8 years in clinical practice. I have supported clients in all areas such as: processing and understanding emotions, identity exploration, personal/soul growth, goal-setting, overcoming and understanding addictions, spiritual support, developing healthy boundaries, processing and healing from grief and loss, career challenges, religious trauma, cultural trauma, LGBTQ+ affirming care, shadowwork, dreamwork, etc.
VirtualAvailable

$150/session

Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

LGBTQ
Addiction
Domestic Violence
+9
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience, I provide compassionate, expert care for individuals, couples, and families navigating a wide range of mental health challenges. My practice encompasses all core mental health issues, with specialized expertise in supporting the military population, addressing addiction, healing with domestic violence, and working with survivors of child abuse. With a deep commitment to fostering resilience and empowerment, I tailor evidenced-based approaches to meet your unique needs, helping you build stronger relationships and a healthier future.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

$150/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

LGBTQ
Peer Relationships
Trauma and PTSD
+5
Hi ! I'm Jojo and thank you for taking the time to read this! I'm an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California and I work with adults. I'd like to acknowledge how therapy can be overwhelming, intimidating and at times tiring, so I appreciate you being here. I prioritize working collaboratively with my clients, meaning we'll work together to set an environment that is supportive and emotionally safe. I am motivated by Social Justice and I strive to ensure that my clients have a place in this world where their voices are being heard. My approach mostly surrounds Liberation Psychology, Decolonizing and Destigmatizing Mental Health Care, Person- Centered, Identity, Attachment & Emotion Focused while providing Culturally safe and sensitive care, along with Gender Affirming Therapy Practices.
VirtualAvailable

New to Grow

$175/session

Specialties

LGBTQ
Anxiety
Life Transitions
+4
I’m a licensed therapist with a background in education and school counseling, dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s most challenging transitions with clarity and confidence. With over a decade of experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults, I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, identity exploration, and life transitions. Through Easy Peasy Counseling, I create a supportive, approachable space where clients feel understood, empowered, and equipped with practical tools for growth.
VirtualAvailable

$150/session

Empowering
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

LGBTQ
Anxiety
Depression
+5
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, proudly based in Oakland, California. I have supported folks over the last decade and was called to social work while employed at an art studio for adults with various health needs. In 2017, I received my Master's in Social Welfare from the University of California, Berkeley. I have been practicing as a social worker for 9 years. I support folks 18+ in navigating trauma and self worth. As a Lebanese-American therapist, I aim to work with folks who are seeking the opportunity to re-examine their cultural storyline and get creative in unpacking their identity. Together, let’s challenge societal expectations and strive to center your authentic self. A little about me, personally: I identify as an artist and child of the earth, as diaspora has scattered my ancestors across the Arab world, Africa, Europe, and North America. I am fascinated by intersectionality and the powerful ways that resilience shapes our multi-hyphenate individuality. It is important that I take care of myself so that I can be a pillar of support to my clients. The way that I release painful feelings is by channeling them into creative projects. I also work hard to stay connected to my body and my surroundings. Whether it’s through writing, building clay sculptures, beading, or making collages, self-expression is a healing practice. I encourage everyone to play a little bit!
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

$200/session

Warm
Authentic
Humorous

Specialties

LGBTQ
Anxiety
Life Transitions
+9
Welcome to your first step into a new therapeutic journey. I aim to create a safe, compassionate therapeutic environment that allows you to explore strengths and empower you to have more control over your life. I have helped clients gain new skills and explore experiences that can get in the way of their current happiness. Whether they are struggling with depression, anxiety, identity, and/or relationships, I focus on helping clients feel happier and more confident in their everyday lives. After graduating from Northwestern University with a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, I have spent the last four years helping people struggling with acute depression and anxiety symptoms as well as any other symptom that has significantly impacted their lives. I have helped clients make life-changing steps toward recovery to create the lives they want to live.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

$120/session

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

LGBTQ
ADHD
Anxiety
+6
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California, with over 5 years of clinical experience supporting clients' mental health. I'm passionate about working with individuals who want to understand themselves on a deeper level, not just manage symptoms but shift the patterns underneath them. I work with adults navigating the emotional challenges that come from ADHD, anxiety, relationship stress, attachment wounds, or trauma. My role is to help you untangle what feels confusing, strengthen your sense of self, and move toward relationships and choices that feel secure and aligned.
VirtualAvailable

$150/session

Authentic
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

LGBTQ
Coping Skills
Depression
+7
Currently not accepting couples, fully accepting you! I work exclusively with adults in individual therapy. If you’ve been stuck in the endless therapist scroll, trying to figure out who actually feels safe, relatable, and honest enough to open up to... welcome! I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Iowa with an emphasis in mental health. This background allows me to approach your concerns with a holistic and informed perspective. Many of the people I work with are carrying anxiety, depression, emotional overwhelm, relationship stress, identity exploration, burnout, anger, shame, grief, or the pressure of always having to “hold it together.” Some feel disconnected from themselves. Others are tired of surviving and want to start living more intentionally. My approach is warm, grounded, direct, and deeply human. Therapy with me is not about analyzing you from a distance or pretending to have all the answers. It is a collaborative space where you can slow down, speak honestly, make sense of your experiences, and begin responding to yourself and your life differently. Clients often tell me they appreciate that I balance compassion with honesty. I will support you, challenge you when needed, and help you notice patterns that may no longer serve you without judgment or shame. I work best with clients who are open to reflection, ready for meaningful change, and willing to engage in the process at their own pace. If you’re looking for a therapist who feels authentic, conversational, and intentional in the work, we may be a good fit.
VirtualAvailable

$125/session

Empowering
Open-minded

Specialties

LGBTQ
Anxiety
Depression
+3
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 14 year experience in the mental health field. I specialize in supporting individuals who are committed to their emotional healing. I have experience in working with age groups ranging from children to adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, trauma survivors, and those who seek to live their best lives. In order to support the individuals I work with, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strength-Based, and Person-Centered approaches.
VirtualAvailable

$175/session

Authentic
Warm

Specialties

LGBTQ
Anxiety
Depression
+8
My name is Brooke Barker and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California. My path to becoming a therapist was shaped by my own mental health journey and by how much therapy helped me better understand myself, my relationships, and my place in the world. I know how powerful it is to feel seen, supported, and understood, and I’m deeply committed to creating that experience for the people I work with. My approach is collaborative, client-centered, strengths-based, trauma-informed, and creative. I tailor what we do to your unique experiences, culture, and background. I draw from CBT, solution-focused work, mindfulness, EMDR, and insight-driven communication to help build self-awareness, practical skills, and lasting growth. I work with a variety of people, populations, and presenting concerns including: anxiety, depression, panic disorder, daily stress, life transitions,/adjustments, body image and self-esteem concerns, and trauma (PTSD), as well as identity-affirming care for neurodivergent clients (ADHD/Autism) and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Available

Often rebooked

$150/session

Intelligent
Authentic
Holistic

Specialties

LGBTQ
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hello! I am an LCSW with over 10 years of mental health experience in a variety of settings and levels of care. I am a natural and empathetic listener, and am able to deeply connect with and understand others. I hold space with reverence and respect for your trust and bravery in showing up, and respond with genuine understanding, intelligence, insight, acceptance, and compassion. I seek to join with and help empower clients to recognize and question patterns within their own lives, and to use skills and different perspectives to create lasting change where desired.
VirtualAvailable

New to Grow

$250/session

Specialties

LGBTQ
ADHD
Trauma and PTSD
+10
As a Los Angeles-based clinical psychologist, I provide a warm, highly collaborative space for individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and complex life transitions. While I bring deep clinical expertise, I carefully tailor my approach to your unique psychological landscape. My practice is integrative and interpersonal—blending psychodynamic insight, solution-focused tools, and mind-body science to treat the whole person. Rooted in LGBTQIA+ affirmative, neurodiversity-affirming, and culturally responsive care, I am dedicated to building a robust relational space. Together, we will co-create a reparative therapeutic experience that honors your lived reality, decodes your unique mind, and cultivates lasting resilience.
Available

$175/session

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

LGBTQ
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
+6
We all have the opportunity in our life to start fresh. During the journey, we change, grow, heal, destroy, and can improve our lives. You will experience difficulties, and you are not alone. We are not alone in this world, but we are compelled to isolate ourselves from the fear of experiencing too much pain. I have many years of clinical training with life experiences, including successes and failures, but we are not provided a how to manual at birth. I have a sense of humor, but good sound clinical judgment, so take a leap of faith.
VirtualAvailable

$250/session

Warm
Authentic
Holistic

Specialties

LGBTQ
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+4
I identify as a Queer, Xicana therapist. I am a step-mom to twin, teenage boys. I specialize in supporting individuals through healing journeys of trauma, anxiety, and overwhelm. I do this by offering a safe, compassionate, culturally-sensitive approach. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by us all, I work to create a safe space for healing, empowerment, and growth. My goal is to support individuals in navigating their experiences, reclaiming their strength, and building resilience for a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Available

Often rebooked

$150/session

Authentic
Humorous
Warm

Specialties

LGBTQ
Child or Adolescent
Depression
+9
"Healing may not be so much about getting better, as about letting go of everything that isn't you – all of the expectations, all of the beliefs – and becoming who you are." - Rachel Naomi Remen Hello! I am Lauresha Hawkins, LCSW, MSW, MPH. I am the CE0 and Founder of Mental Wellness University, Licensed Clinical Social Worker Inc., which is located in California. I am licensed in the state of California and Alaska. I am independently contracted with Grow Therapy. With trust and rapport as the foundation of our therapeutic alliance, my approach is eclectic in style and based on meeting the unique needs of who I serve. Possessing a passion for serving and inspiring people from all walks of life, I have experience working with individuals who have challenges with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, substance abuse, and perinatal mental health disorders. With fifteen years of experience in the field of social work, I have dedicated eight of those years to providing mental health services as an associate and licensed mental health professional in various settings, including residential therapeutic treatment facilities, outpatient clinics, and hospitals. Currently, I hold a three-year license. My passion lies in serving youth, Transitional Age Youth (TAY), adults, and mature adults, particularly those who are vulnerable and at risk, such as the LGBTQIA+ community and individuals with dual diagnoses.
VirtualAvailable

$150/session

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

LGBTQ
Anxiety
Depression
+3
Sometimes, the most profound connections are formed when someone truly listens.I’m Cintia, here not just to hear, but to deeply understand you. In a world where trauma and anxiety often drown out our inner voices, I know that beneath the spoken words, lies a heart’s true narrative. What a degree in Clinical Psychology and a seven-year journey as a therapist has allowed me to is delve deep into the realms of trauma, anxiety, and depression. While these are my primary focuses, I also bring profound insights into PTSD, intricate family dynamics, relationship challenges, and concerns faced by the LGBTQ community.
VirtualAvailable

$175/session

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

LGBTQ
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Hi, I’m Ryan Ingram, PsyD, a licensed psychologist in California. I work with adults, teens, and couples who are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of their next steps - whether that’s related to anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, identity, or major life transitions. I specialize in working with individuals and strive to create a space that feels affirming, safe, and grounded in respect for your lived experience. Therapy with me is collaborative and supportive. We’ll move at your pace, focusing on what feels most important to you while building insight, coping tools, and self-understanding along the way. LGBTQ+ affirming and sex positive.
VirtualAvailable

$140/session

Empowering
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

LGBTQ
Sexual Abuse
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Brianna Hernandez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California - License #143354. Her preferred name is Bri and they use She/They pronouns. Bri is a Witch (Bruja), who decided to be a psychotherapist. They are also an Artist, Clown, Queer, Chicano and a Deeply, Sensitive Human. She wants to give you a different experience in talk therapy. They want to support you in how you decide to go about your healing journey.
Available

$150/session

Authentic
Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

LGBTQ
Anxiety
Grief
+8
Hi, hello, howdy! Fancy seeing you here. I suppose this is the part where I share if you'd be my "optimal client" but I would rather let you decide if you feel like I would be your “optimal" therapist. My therapeutic focus is increasing awareness of environments and everyday situations, opening one’s perception of life choices, and intensifying feelings of empowerment and liberation in our work together. My ACT/Solution- Focused style is interactive and fun while honoring my client’s relationships, helping them discover what is truly needed from these relationships and inspiring them to live authentically. I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 5 years of experience in providing mental health services. I have a B.S. in Social Work from Sacramento State and an M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy from University of San Francisco. I am certified in Mental Health Nutrition via PESI, and have training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, as well as Trauma Focused-CBT. I’ve had the privilege of working in community mental health (2 years), a group practice setting (2 years), and in a university health center (currently for over 1 year now) with a very wide variety of age ranges, presenting concerns, and communities. I feel that these experiences have given me a broad and rich overview of the human experience across the lifespan and have made me a better practitioner. Currently, I am an LMFT at CSU Sacramento in their health & wellness center on-campus supporting college students with their mental health, and conducting telehealth private practice via Grow during the evenings Monday-Thursday. In my free time I enjoy international travel with my Husband & going to live pop music concerts
VirtualAvailable

$200/session

Authentic
Humorous
Open-minded

Specialties

LGBTQ
Couples Counseling
Mood Disorders
My name is Michael Southerland and I have over 30 years experience in working with people in mental health, 10 years as a licensed therapist. I have worked in child welfare and adoptions, juvenile systems, and community mental health. I have been in private practice for a total of 8 years. I truly enjoy helping others become their best selves. I am looking forward to meeting you.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

$200/session

Warm
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

LGBTQ
Anxiety
Depression
+9
Hello! I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist, practicing in CA. I have been in practice since 2011 and have treated a wide range of clients from various cultural backgrounds. Issues that have been presented in my practice are anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem, life transitions, parenting, perinatal and postpartum issues and more. I work to create a safe space to allow clients find and strive on their positive and creative energy, discover and develop their goals, empower in their strengths, as well as collaborate on the skills for emotional and behavioral self-regulation.
VirtualAvailable

$150/session

Solution oriented
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

LGBTQ
ADHD
Trauma and PTSD
+10
As a therapist, I bring a unique blend of Psychodynamic insight and trauma-informed care to my practice. With a background in trauma-informed therapy, I am equipped to support you in navigating sensitive issues with compassion and skill. Choosing a therapist is a significant decision, and it's essential to find someone who resonates with your needs. My commitment is to provide a supportive and insightful experience, guiding you toward healing and personal growth. If you're seeking a deeper understanding of yourself and a path toward resolving the past to promote a healthier present, I invite you to reach out to discover how we can work together.
VirtualAvailable

New to Grow

$100/session

Specialties

LGBTQ
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Hi, I'm Shari, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe that prioritizing your mental health is one of the greatest investments you can make in yourself. With over 7 years of experience, I provide an affirming, empowering, and solution-oriented approach tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where you feel supported as we work together to build on your strengths, overcome challenges, and create meaningful, lasting change. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, and you are the expert on your own life. My approach is affirming, empowering, and solution-oriented, helping you build on your strengths while developing practical tools to navigate life's challenges. I tailor each session to your unique goals and needs, drawing from evidence-based approaches.
Available

Often rebooked

$160/session

Authentic
Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

LGBTQ
Anxiety
Depression
+13
Hello and Welcome! Are there moments in your life where you wished things could go better? Have you noticed changes in being able to connect with yourself (mind/body) or being able to connect with others (friends, family, new acquaintances)? Have you wondered what's wrong with your self-care? What habits are interfering with leveling up? I want to start by recognizing the tremendous courage and step forward in seeking therapy. I utilize a whole person, strength based, and compassionate approach to understanding your problems. My goal is to support you by listening and helping you find solutions that will work for you. I utilize a cultural humility and solutions focused approach to ensure that you are in the driver seat and I can be your headlights in reaching that destination. I pull from a variety of evidence-based practices and consider myself eclectic in style. In our sessions, therapy should feel natural, conversational, safe and overall be a space to promote healing. We all need someone to talk to, so let's work together. Tambien hablo Espanol.
VirtualAvailable

$175/session

Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

LGBTQ
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+10
It's easy to overlook our need for self-care when we're busy taking care of other aspects of our lives. Our priorities often revolve around work and our family's well-being, leaving us at the bottom of our list. My aim is to encourage self-determination through therapy. During our therapeutic relationship, we will work together to achieve your goals and find new ways to overcome obstacles and crises. We'll collaborate on identifying your strengths, as it's important to recognize how your current mindset and decisions are impacting the challenges you face in life.
VirtualAvailable
Frequently asked questions

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in California. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across California from San Francisco to San Diego! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in California.

When booking you’ll be asked to verify with your Member ID. However, if you don’t have any of the insurances available you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need. For example, your selected specialty, LGBTQ, is filtering therapists in California that work with patients with similar concerns.

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs. Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center.Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.