Therapist in California
Rita Balakhane, LMFT, works online with adults, couples, and families from anywhere in California. She specializes in depression, anxiety, and grief.
- 22+ years licensed experience
- Therapy in English and Farsi (Persian)
- Free 15-minute phone consultation
- Insurance via Rula and Headway

Services
Anxiety Therapy
Learn to manage anxiety and find calm through personalized, compassionate therapy.
Learn moreDepression Therapy
Find clarity and hope through compassionate, evidence-based therapy for depression.
Learn moreCouples Therapy
Strengthen communication, resolve recurring conflict, and rebuild emotional intimacy through collaborative couples therapy.
Learn moreAnywhere in California
Rita Balakhane, LMFT, offers telehealth therapy for clients located anywhere in California, from San Diego to the Bay Area and the rest of Northern California, the Central Valley to the Inland Empire. Telehealth sessions give you attentive, personal care without the commute, and let you work with a therapist whose experience and languages fit your needs rather than one who simply happens to be nearby.
How Telehealth Works
- Secure video: Sessions take place on HIPAA-compliant video platforms. You join from any private space, at home or at the office.
- Session length: Sessions are 45–50 minutes, usually weekly.
- English or Farsi (Persian): Rita provides therapy in both languages, which can be hard to find outside Los Angeles.
How It Works
Free 15-minute call
Call or email to set up a brief, relaxed phone conversation about what brings you to therapy. Rita typically responds within 24–48 hours.
First session
A thorough assessment of your history, current concerns, and goals, over secure video.
Ongoing support
45–50 minute sessions, usually weekly, adjusted to what you need.
FAQ
Are you licensed to provide therapy anywhere in California?
Yes. Rita Balakhane is licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in California and can provide telehealth therapy to clients located anywhere in the state.
Do I need to be in California during my session?
Yes. California licensing requires that you be physically located in California at the time of each session. If you will be traveling out of state, let Rita know ahead of time so you can plan around it.
Do you see clients in Northern California?
Yes, through telehealth. Rita sees clients anywhere in California online, including the Bay Area, Sacramento, and the rest of Northern California. Part of her early clinical training was in Northern California, where she co-facilitated groups for children of divorced families and worked as a school counselor.
What do I need for a telehealth session?
A private space, a stable internet connection, and a phone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone. Sessions take place on HIPAA-compliant video platforms.