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 1139 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.

Availability updated: 10/1/2026

Has intro video

Authentic
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+3
My goal as a therapist is to provide support and encouragement to you during challenging times. I believe my role is to use my education and experience to help you achieve your desired outcome and help you find ways to learn to live with your present life circumstances. I specialize in evidence-based treatments for a wide range of conditions including anxiety, depression, career issues, difficult life transitions, adverse childhood experiences, grief & loss, relationship issues, anger management & domestic violence, and athletic performance. I grew up in a small coastal town in Northern California, and graduated from Humboldt State University. From there I moved to Redding California and started my career as a Marriage and Family Therapist.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Authentic
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Specialties
Anxiety
Chronic Illness
Substance Misuse
+2
Hello, my name is Michael Chavez, LCSW, and I provide individual therapy to adults facing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, work related stress, and relationship issues. I understand how tough life can be. Before I became a therapist, I went through my own challenges — unhoused, unemployed, and struggling with substance use. Getting sober and working my way through college wasn’t easy, but it shaped the way I show up for others now: with understanding, patience, and zero judgment.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Humorous
Specialties
Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Spirituality
+10
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Board Certified Registered Art Therapist. I received my Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Notre Dame de Namur University. Most of my classes in graduate included art therapy so when I graduated I was able to become a registered art therapist. I am also a Christian and provide therapy from that perspective for those who want their faith to be a part of the therapy process. I believe our spiritual well-being and relationship with God can have a significant influence on all other areas of our lives including mental health. I have a holistic approach to therapy looking at how mental, physical, and spiritual health impact each other in both positive and negative ways. I have experience in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) supporting clients in gaining a healthier relationship with their thoughts and feelings. I have worked extensively with clients in coping with depression, stress and anxiety, as well as in processing grief, loss, and life transitions. I am passionate about making mental health services more readily available to those who need it and normalizing the need for them.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Attachment Issues
Childhood / Intergenerational Trauma
Life Transitions
+8
Reaching out for therapy can feel vulnerable, especially if you were taught to handle things on your own, prioritize your family, or keep difficult emotions to yourself. Maybe you’ve spent a lot of time being the “strong one,” trying to meet expectations, or figuring out how to balance who you are with who you’re expected to be. Therapy can offer a space to slow down, make sense of those experiences, and reconnect with yourself. I’m a Punjabi-American Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing virtual therapy throughout California. I believe healing begins when we feel genuinely seen, heard, and understood. My goal is to create a warm, collaborative space where you can show up as you are, without judgment or pressure to have everything figured out. I’m especially passionate about supporting adult children of immigrants as they navigate cultural identity, family expectations, relationships, boundaries, and major life transitions. I also work with adolescents (13+), adults, couples, and families from all backgrounds who are navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, family dynamics, and life stressors. As a Punjabi-American therapist, I understand how culture, family values, and generational experiences can shape the way we understand ourselves and our relationships. I approach this work with curiosity rather than blame, helping you explore the patterns and beliefs that have shaped you while identifying what you want to carry forward, and what you may want to do differently. You don’t have to know exactly what you need before starting therapy. Sometimes, the first step is simply giving yourself permission to explore what’s been weighing on you. Wherever you are in that process, I’m here to meet you there.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Authentic
Warm
Intelligent
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Women's Issues
+10
My name is Dr. Perynn D'Alba and I am a clinical psychologist. I enjoy working with clients who are ready to make changes. These can be big or small, this is your life and your time, I am here to help you figure out what isn't working quite right. I enjoy being creative in my interventions and really figuring out what will work best for you. I use humor where appropriate because it can be an important intervention and give space to dig deeper. I have had various jobs in my life in quite a few different fields but the common thread was that I enjoy empowering others and helping people figure out what they want and how to get that.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+4
Hi there, I'm Cynthia. Do you feel overwhelmed and exhausted? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help individuals manage anxiety and depression. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a strength based approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness and supportive therapy to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary, but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques to help you move past what's been holding you back and build the life you actually want. Let's work together.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I help clients to overcome the obstacles that get in the way of living a meaningful and purposeful life. I believe mental health and wellness is a lifestyle of putting yourself first mentally, emotionally, and physically. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I have a Masters in Social Work from the University of Oklahoma and a Bachelor's in Psychology from Chapman University. My primary focus includes depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, caregiver stress, relationship issues, and stress management. It is important for my clients to be comfortable, agreeable and involved throughout the treatment process. Treatment plans are individualized to meet your needs because one size does not fit all. I use a person centered strengths based approach using Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). I look forward to partnering with you on your healing journey.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Trauma and PTSD
+5
Hi there, I am Dr. Ola. Do you feel pulled, stressed, and hopeless, unable to find balance and healthy skills? Are you struggling to maintain your relationships, work, and mental health? Is it hard to show yourself compassion? I help diverse individuals manage life stressors and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a holistic and individualized approach to address the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. I also integrate relaxation techniques to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, self-esteem issues, cycles of anxiety, depression, or other mental health needs, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary, but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the barriers and habits holding you back. Let's work together!
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Specialties
Depression
Grief
LGBTQ
+14
Considering counseling is a big step and takes courage. I want to offer you that safe space for you to share in a caring and understanding environment. I can help you through your challenging journey to overcome your angst. My name is Myrna Vargas-Evert and I an LCSW. My experience ranges from working with adults in empowering them to overcome the burden of Anxiety and Depression. I have also worked with children and families providing communication, parenting, and relaxation skills, CBT and Strength Based approaches. My specialty is grief, gerontology, and TBI (traumatic brain injury). I also work with the Gerontology (older adult) population in Home Health & Hospice and persons who experienced a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) through a specialized return to Home & Community Program by providing education and support to the patients and their families so that they can have a more meaningful life.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Solution oriented
Authentic
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+5
Hi! Do you feel burdened by anxiety or overwhelmed by dark and gloomy thoughts? Do you feel frustrated that you are not as happy as you used to be, less sociable, more alone? Do you feel that life's circumstances have gotten you down, tired, and burnt out? I am an LCSW with over decades of experience working with individuals and families navigating life's journey with chronic illness, grief, anxiety and depression. Sometimes life can be tough and challenging. We may feel stressed, overwhelmed and isolated. Life transitions can be difficult and take effort, dedication and motivation. I specialize in treating self esteem issues, grief, anxiety, depression, post partum depression, caregiver stress, burn out, communication and relationship difficulties. Let's collaborate to identify what's not working so that we can reset, achieve balance and positivity in your life, and maximize day to day functioning. I am here to provide assistance, support and guidance and to remind you that reaching out is a sign of health and strength
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Intelligent
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in California. I received my bachelor's degree from Cornell University, a master's degree from the State University of New York (SUNY) system, another master's from the University of New Mexico, and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of New Mexico. I've trained at three Veteran's Affairs hospitals (most recently VA Puget Sound) and completed my residency at Kaiser Permanente in Northern California. I've co-authored more the 25 scholarly articles, chapters for medical textbooks, and symposia at national conferences, worked on a number of research grants funded by the National Institutes of Health, and have been providing psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and groups since 2014.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Holistic
Specialties
Depression
Fertility & Reproduction Issues
Grief
+10
Hello. I'm a bilingual English-Japanese Licensed Clinical Social worker based in Los Angeles, California. I've been practicing for 8 and a half years. The majority of my career is based on working for LA County mental health clinics. I've been working with adult clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, cultural assimilation issues and loss and grief (including loss of babies and infertility). I also work with adult clients who suffer from psychosis with the condition of medication compliance.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Authentic
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Luke is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a background in emergency medical services and hospital emergency departments. He is a United States Coast Guard veteran located in California. Luke believes in healthy habit development, consistent focus on goals, and problem solving to improve quality of life. Luke's approach to therapy includes: positive psychology, stress management, reducing substance use, communication skills, solution focused therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Outside of work Luke enjoys outdoor activities like camping, mountain biking, sailing, and scuba diving.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Hello, and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 28 years of experience in the mental health field. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space to process, learn to unlearn that which is no longer helpful to you, and rebuild. My services can be provided in English, Portuguese, or Spanish and include stress management, coping with depression and/or anxiety, and learn to live with what cannot be changed. A meaningful life must be constructed, with care and diligence, kindness and courage.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Greetings! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in California. I have 10 years of experience working as a school counselor. This work includes working with children and teens on anxiety and familial stress. Also, I have been practicing clinical therapy for 5 years. In this realm of work, I support individuals struggling with life issues and transitions to become the best versions of themselves.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Burnout
Depression
+6
Hi! My name is Tomer, I'm a Psychotherapist based in Los Angeles, and I have been working in the field of psychology for the past 8 years. I graduated from California State University Northridge with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, and furthered my education at Antioch University- Los Angeles, where I obtained a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology, specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy. I’ve had the privilege of working with different demographics in a wide range of therapeutic environments. I’ve worked with teens in the high school setting, with individuals struggling with substance abuse and eating disorders, as well as patients with depression, anxiety, low self esteem, trauma, toxic relationships, and co-dependency. As part of my private practice, I provide therapy to both individuals and couples online. I combine the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Humanistic approach in my practice. With that said, I tailor the methods I use in treatment to each client's specific needs. My goal is to cultivate an authentic human connection with my clients by creating a safe and comfortable space for them to explore their underlying issues, promoting growth and change, in order to improve their quality of life.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Authentic
Direct
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+10
I am Dr. Audrey Levy. I live on a boat, and my private practice hours are available 24/7 by appointment only. I also make house calls. I am experienced in helping my clients deal with issues such as Anxiety, Depression, Stress Reduction, Loss and Grief Recovery, Substance Abuse, Anger Management and Crisis Counseling. I provide a calm, empathetic, and nurturing environment where you will feel heard, and most importantly, understood. Together we will work on ways to help you understand your feelings and compulsions. My grieving clients experience closure through writing letters to their loved ones who have died. This letter writing is effective for all forms of loss. Reading the letters aloud is very healing as it encourages acceptance, and permits moving on to build a life filled with love and laughter. As a Doctor of Psychology and psychotherapist for 45+ years, I've dealt with my own grief and loss by writing the nonfiction book, "Doggie Wisdom for Humans: Advice from Dogs for Humans of All Ages," and an autobiographical fiction series, "The Adventures of the Angel Oleo." I hope you have an opportunity to read my books and that I get to help you.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
+9
Hi, I'm glad you are here. My name is Alicia and I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in Southern California and working telehealth statewide. I am committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with compassion and clinical expertise. I provide a supportive and non-judgmental space, where clients can work through various mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic
Specialties
Grief
Life Transitions
Older Adults
+10
PLEASE NOTE: I specialize in Gerontology. I believe in empowering older adults by fostering independence, resilience and sense of identity. Aging is a journey that should be met with dignity, respect, and opportunities for growth. By actively listening, providing tailored support, and encouraging self-determination, I can help older adults maintain their autonomy and confidence. Resilience is nurtured through meaningful connections, purposeful activities, and a focus on strengths rather than limitations. I am committed to honoring an individual's experiences, celebrating their uniqueness, and creating environments where people feel valued and capable. I challenge stereotypes about aging and promote a vision of later life filled with possibility and fulfillment.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Solution oriented
Warm
Direct
Specialties
Addiction
Anger Management
Child or Adolescent
+2
Hello I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing in the field of Social Work for over 30 years. I have worked with many different people from a variety of cultures. I have helped both children, adolescents and adults with various concerns from criminal behaviors, addiction, and serious mental illness. I have helped people change their behavior and thinking so they can reach their potential, achieve their goals and heal emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Direct
Warm
Authentic
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
+10
I am a straight-forward but empathic therapist, who also appreciates the same from her clients. I also believe in the social work mission of starting where the client is, so sessions are based upon that analogy. I have experience in many areas, including hospital, foster care, group homes, forensics, Veterans, home health, etc. I received my Masters of Social Science Administration from Case Western Reserve Univerity, and my Doctorate of Psychology from California Southern University. Although I have a doctorate degree, my scope of practice does not fall under psychological testing, pharmacological practices, nor community services. I only do individual therapy so if you need case management (such as letters), family/couples therapy, psychologicial testing, or medication, please refer to those licensed or practicing in those areas.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Authentic
Humorous
Warm
Specialties
Child or Adolescent
Men's Issues
Women's Issues
+10
My name is Gary Youssef and I have been providing mental/behavioral health services for children, adolescents, adults and families for 25+ years. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing mental/behavioral health issues impacting children and adults such as: career/school stressors, depression, anxiety, relational issues, parenting, family systems, medical challenges, healthy lifestyles, etc. I worked for 14 years as a therapist and program manager at the central outpatient psychiatry clinic at Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego which is ranked as one of the top 10 children's hospitals in the United States by U.S. News and World report. I have helped provide behavioral health services for over 10,000 children, adults and families throughout San Diego County. In addition, I helped support U.S. service members and their families while working as a military family life counselor at Naval Medical Center-San Diego in Pediatrics. I also volunteered at San Diego Unified School District and coached little league. I love being a father to my two awesome sons and I enjoy athletics and cooking in my free time. I am practical and eclectic therapist combining elements from theoretical orientations such as cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy to help clients of all ages. The vast majority of my clients report that they had a good experience working with me and describe me as experienced, professional, friendly, kind, helpful and effective.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Direct
Authentic
Humorous
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+6
I provide straightforward, collaborative therapy for adults and adolescents who are ready to actively engage in the process. My style is warm, direct, and practical, with a focus on work both in and outside of sessions. I work with mild-to-moderate concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship patterns, boundaries, life transitions, self-esteem, and the impact of past experiences. I help clients better understand their patterns while building practical skills they can use in everyday life.
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Empowering
Direct
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+5
I am currently providing psychotherapy services in both English and Spanish in person and via Telehealth in California. As a strength-based clinician, I have had the opportunity and privilege to assist people in bringing stability and healing to their lives by helping them find and recognize their inner strengths and apply them in their daily lives. I employ an in-depth therapeutic approach to provide short-term and effective symptom reduction. I also focus on Affirmative Therapy, advocating for the needs of sexual and gender minority patients. Additionally, for longer-term treatment, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
VirtualAvailable

Has intro video

Warm
Authentic
Humorous
Specialties
Coping Skills
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+7
I offer a space where your pain can soften, your story can unfold gently, and you can be met with warmth and compassion without judgment. I draw from CBT, TF-CBT, MI, mindfulness, and person-centered, holistic practices — not as rigid techniques, but as tools we weave into the moments when you need grounding, clarity, or a way to steady yourself. Over time, your voice gets stronger. Your patterns make more sense. And the parts of you that learned to survive begin to feel safe enough to soften.
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.

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.

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.

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.