Aetna Therapists in California

Accessing therapy covered by Aetna insurance can simplify and reduce the cost of therapy, helping you find therapist that fits your budget. With 1187 verified therapists in California accepting Aetna, you can choose from therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based therapy to address concerns like anxiety, depression, or major life changes. Each Grow Therapy-verified provider listed below is open to new clients and has upcoming availability, making it easier to connect with a therapist who meets your needs within the scope of your Aetna plan.

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Los AngelesSan DiegoSacramentoOaklandSan Francisco

Availability updated: 2/23/2026

Often rebooked

Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
+10
I've been working with children, teens and families for 40 years, and adults, couples and seniors for 20. Early in my career, I was a houseparent and counselor in group homes for delinquent teens, a teacher’s aide in a special education school and a counselor in a residential treatment center for emotionally disturbed children. I also taught in junior high and high schools and was a rehabilitation group therapist in psychiatric hospitals. In the last 15 years, in addition to facilitating group therapy and seeing individuals and couples in private practice, I've continued my work with teens, families and adults in day treatment programs and long term living facilities. I obtained my Master’s degree in Psychology from California Institute of Integral Studies in 1993 and PhD in Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute in 2013. ​My treatment approaches and therapeutic orientations include: ​Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Dialectical Behavioral (DBT) Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy Expressive Arts Therapies (role play, psychodrama, art, poetry) ​Humanistic Person Centered Jungian Depth Psychology ​Liberation Psychologies Object Relations Motivational Interviewing Narrative Therapy Solution Focused Structural-Strategic Family Therapy
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New to Grow

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Substance Misuse
+2
Life often hands us challenges that create obstacles to realizing one's fullest potential. Life is unpredictable, and making sense of it and the world around us can be confusing. At times, we need help. We can even start to believe that change isn't possible. Throughout the counseling process, I help individuals find resolution to a wide range of personal concerns, crises, and psychological issues. My approach to counseling balances compassion, and safety while working to find peace from all the challenges that life brings. My style is authentic and practical - I focus on helping you discover your strengths. I listen attentively to your stories with non-judgmental empathy and acceptance. I provide ongoing support with therapeutic insight and expertise in a confidential setting. With a special interest in working with folks struggling with substance abuse issues, I have a great deal of experience in the Substance Abuse & Recovery world. I also enjoy working with older individuals looking to find new values as they move into retirement.
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Direct
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Starting therapy can feel empowering, confusing, or even intimidating—and it’s worth taking a moment to recognize the courage it takes to take this first step toward caring for your mental health. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where you can explore challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-care, and more. My goal is to help you strengthen communication and boundaries with yourself and others so that you can improve your quality of life and move toward the future you envision. Therapy is not just about overcoming obstacles—it’s also about personal growth. Together, we’ll clarify your goals and identify strategies to help you move toward them, whether that means change over the next month, six months, or a year. You’ll leave our sessions with practical insights and “next steps” you can put into action right away. I believe life’s purpose isn’t simply to be happy, but to find meaning—and within that meaning, joy emerges. While the journey isn’t always easy, it can be transformative. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Addictions Professional, Internationally Certified Drug Counselor, and Behavior Analyst. I take a strength-based approach, helping you use your unique abilities to address challenges. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to empower you in creating lasting change. Most importantly, I bring a relaxed, compassionate, and trustworthy presence, fostering a therapeutic relationship where you feel safe and supported.
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Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Mood Disorders
+8
My name is Manuel Cruz and I have been practicing for almost 20 years. I have worked in a variety of settings from schools to hospitals treating various mental health conditions. Believing that every client is unique I utilize an integrative approach of cognitive, interpersonal, client-centered therapy to tailor interventions to the specific needs of my clients. With an extensive background and experience with relational therapy I am able to help couples, families, and individuals realize their potential and achieve their goals.
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Often rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+5
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has been practicing for seven years in a nationally recognized outpatient healthcare clinic. After completing my Bachelor’s degree in psychology at Chapman University, I decided to change careers and pursue a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. Working for the clinic has provided an extraordinary learning environment and allowed me to benefit from collaboration with amazing clinicians who share my passion to help others.
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Warm
Humorous
Empowering

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, I offer therapy covered by Aetna for adults, teens, and elders seeking support with anxiety, ADHD, trauma, or work-related stress. With over 21 years of experience, I use approaches like CBT to help you navigate challenges and improve your well-being.
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Often rebooked

Intelligent
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Grief
Life Transitions
Men's Issues
+5
Greetings! I am Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Indiana with over 15 years of experience. I have masters degrees in Counseling Psychology and a PhD in Educational Psychology from Ball State University. I help adults and executives develop resilience through life adversities and help them regain greater insights about how they can move forward with more authenticity and purpose.
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Intelligent
Humorous

Specialties

Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Peer Relationships
+9
Finding a place where you can be completely honest about how you’re doing shouldn't be so difficult. I’m Elizabeth, and I help people navigate the deeper, more complex parts of their lives that often feel hard to put into words. I believe that the challenges you’re facing today are usually connected to a larger story. Whether you are dealing with the long-term effects of trauma, the weight of life changes, or a persistent feeling that something is 'off,' I’m here to help you make sense of it. My goal is to move beyond just managing symptoms so we can understand and address the root causes of your distress.
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New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+3
The world has changed, and it's hard to change with it. Are you overwhelmed with feelings of grief, anxiety, and depression? Are your relationships not working? Is there a lack of patience with your spouse or partner? If you're ready to rid yourself of the roadblocks to your happiness and fulfillment, I want to help you. The truth is we have all been there at some time in our lives. Everyone has tough challenges that you can learn to overcome. We can work together as you build a life that has meaning for you. I will teach you techniques to change your self-talk so you can build your self-confidence and feel good about yourself and your relationships. I bring years of experience and training to offer convenient, secure online therapy so you can forget about the commute and work with me wherever and whenever you are most comfortable. Just call to schedule a free 20-minute consultation to see if we are a good fit.
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Often rebooked

Solution oriented
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Women's Issues
+10
I work with clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, spirituality, chronic health conditions, relationship challenges, dating, career path, life purpose and self-esteem. I take a holistic approach to therapy, I support healing by exploring all aspects of the self—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. I believe therapy is a means of supporting yourself, a safe place to process emotions, a way to gain clarity, a way to feel supported and a way to feel understood. I value honest, open communication and work to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard without judgment.
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Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
+5
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist supporting adults in California with therapy covered by Aetna. I help clients navigate anxiety, grief, and OCD using a collaborative, strength-based approach that encourages growth and healing.
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Often rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Addiction
Bipolar Disorder
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I bring both professional and personal experience to my work as a therapist. Having a bipolar diagnosis has given me a unique perspective on the challenges of navigating the institutional and often stigmatized aspects of mental health and the impact on day-to-day life. This lived experience allows me to approach therapy with empathy, a genuine curiosity and appreciation for each client’s journey, while also emphasizing holistic living for optimal wellness of mind and body. Professionally, I’ve worked in psychiatric residential treatment, addiction medicine, youth detention and family practice settings. These experiences have strengthened my ability to support clients through a wide range of concerns, from mood and anxiety challenges to relationship and life stressors. I utilize a lot of somatic and sensory-based tools focusing on emotion and nervous system regulation, including brainspotting, sound therapy, aromatherapy, meditation techniques and other mindfulness tools. Alongside these approaches, I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to examine and reframe unhelpful thought patterns, strengthen emotional regulation, and develop healthier coping strategies. I have extensive experience supporting clients with addictions, complex PTSD and trauma history, ADHD, BPD, bipolar, schizophrenia and other psychiatric conditions, allowing me to meet individuals with both compassion and clinical expertise. My goal is to create a safe, collaborative space where clients feel supported, reconnect with themselves, cultivate resilience, and move toward meaningful, lasting change.
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Often rebooked

Solution oriented
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Anger Management
Coping Skills
Depression
+6
I have over 20 years experience working in a forensic setting addressing a range of mental health issues that include anger management, psychosis, general anxiety, depression, and trauma related symptoms. I offer therapy using cognitive based interventions along with mindfulness strategies to manage mood symptoms and control negative thinking patterns. I also offer assertive communication techniques to help improve communication style between partners, family, friends, and workplace.
VirtualAvailable
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Humorous
Empowering

Specialties

Couples Counseling
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
+3
Welcome! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over a decade of experience providing individual and couples therapy, with a focus on women’s emotional wellness and relationship concerns. I work with women who find themselves stuck in recurring relationship patterns, struggling with self-worth, or feeling overwhelmed by the pressure of balancing work, relationships, caregiving roles, and personal needs. My approach is warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental, while also grounded in evidence-based practices. Together, we explore emotional and relational patterns, strengthen communication and boundaries, and develop practical tools to support greater clarity, confidence, and balance. Whether you’re navigating a life transition, relationship stress, or simply feeling disconnected from yourself, therapy offers a space to slow down, gain insight, and create meaningful change. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of New Hampshire and my Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Assumption College. I also complete ongoing continuing education to stay current with research, clinical best practices, and effective treatment approaches.
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Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Men's Issues
+5
Hello , My name is Tom Hill. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working out of Sacramento California. I am working as a remote therapist with clients throughout the state of California. I attained my masters degree in 2002 and have been licensed as a therapist since 2012. I have worked with individuals, couples and families. My style of therapy is called cognitive behavioral therapy. Working with the client in understanding the connections between thoughts, feelings and behaviors/choices. I have a passion for sports and coaching. I look forward to working with you.
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Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+6
I believe therapy should be a place where you feel seen, heard, and truly understood. My approach is rooted in empathy and validation, creating a safe space for you to explore your experiences and discover meaningful solutions. We will always work with where ever you are in your life journey, and just as much as you decide to do. Therapy should be a voluntary commitment to yourself. Together, we'll go beyond surface-level coping, to uncovering deeper healing and lasting change.
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Empowering
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Substance Misuse
Women's Issues
+1
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, I offer therapy covered by Aetna to help you move past feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck. Together, we’ll clarify what’s happening, create a plan that feels right for you, and work at your pace toward greater connection and self-acceptance.
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Holistic
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Depression
+10
I help couples and individuals to navigate turbulent times to find their innate vitality and loving relationships. As a couples therapist, I can help you move beyond patterns of arguing and conflict. You will learn how to communicate and express yourself and be heard and received. I also help couples who are striving to find a path to either stay together or move in. I also guide individuals with financial and/or time constraints to move towards a life balancing family, work and personal passion. I have decades of experience helping people achieve a healthy, happy long life filled with joy and connection. When we work together, I listen to your story. I bring decades of experience, but you are the expert on your own life. I’ll do a deep dive to understand how your symptoms affect you. My role isn’t to diagnose or label you. Instead, I offer invitations to explore new perspectives, try different approaches, and gently challenge the patterns holding you back. I feel confident about my abilities to help you to move forward into the life you have always desired. Therapy can be a daunting experience. I appreciate your courage in pursuing help. I always bring a sense of playfulness to the journey. Things can be hard and still be fun. I look forward to hearing from you.
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Direct

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
+3
Hi, I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist for the past 13 years. I graduated from the California Institute of Integral Studies in expressive arts therapy. I also have lived in a Zen Buddhist temple to do residential practice for five years. My goal is to help people feel better as soon as possible. Usually by the time a person enters therapy they have been under stress that has been building for a while. I help people identify and clarify what their goals are and present interventions that I have supported people using that help them feel better.
VirtualAvailable
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Often rebooked

Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+3
I have been working with clients for many years. I am honored to work with you and to be with you through the process of self discovery and personal growth. It takes a tremendous amount of courage to push ourselves to grow. It can be difficult; however, it can also be a transformative experience that can provide great personal freedom.
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Often rebooked

Solution oriented
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Women's Issues
Hello, I'm Mary E. Watts, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a deep passion for guiding individuals, especially women, children and teenagers through mental and emotional challenges. With 29 years of experience and a Master Degree in Social work I've committed myself to foster personal growth and healing in my clients. I have worked with clients from all walks of life, genders, nationalities, ages and races. My life experiences coupled with my education, and professional experiences makes me a therapist who is well rounded, grounded in reality and capable ofmeeting my client's needs.
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Open-minded
Intelligent

Specialties

Addiction
Anger Management
Coping Skills
+9
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, I provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy—including trauma-informed care—for adults seeking support with anxiety, trauma, substance use, and relationship challenges, all covered by Aetna insurance.
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Often rebooked

Warm
Direct
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Mood Disorders
Hi! I'm a Licensed Psychologist based in California. I have received my Bachelors of Science in Cognitive Psychology and Psychology of Social behaviors from the University of California, Irvine. I have obtained my Masters in Clinical Psychology from California State University of Fullerton. I have received my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant University. I have been seeing clients for the pas 13 years in different settings from private practice to community mental health centers and recovery centers.
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Often rebooked

Specialties

Serious Mental Illness
Sexual Abuse
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I help my clients realize their personal goals through a trauma-informed and empathic approach. My expertise is working with people who have experienced a traumatic event and/or are experiencing mental health struggles/issues, helping them uncover obstacles that hinder their ability to reach their fullest potential. My lived experience brought me to help others as I would have loved to be helped: someone to tell me I’m not alone. Life is hard, and traumas become unbearable without someone in your corner to help process what you have been through.
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Often rebooked

Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Parenting
+8
From working in East LA with 0-5 population to working with adults in the military and kids/teens in San Diego, I have had the privilege of walking alongside so many individuals and families in every facet of life. Obtaining my Bachelor's Degree in the Midwest, studying in a foreign country, and ultimately earning my Master's in California, I embrace adaptability and have gained valuable perspectives gained through varied experiences in various locations. I specialize in utilizing an attachment-based, trauma-informed, and neuroscience lens; and I embrace every individual's story.
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Frequently asked questions

Why filter by California rather than a city like LA?

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.

Will my therapist take Aetna?

Yes! If you use Aetna you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Aetna you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on a specific issue?

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.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

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.

What happens during the first therapy session?

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.