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 1207 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: 6/10/2026

Often rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Spirituality
+1
Hello! I have been a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) in the state of California since November 2017. I worked with children and youth from 2015-2023 in a community-based clinic. From December 2023 to August 2025, I worked with adults struggling with substance abuse who are part of a treatment court program. In August of 2025, I transitioned to private practice where I am primarily serving individuals struggling with relationship issues/life transitions.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Empowering
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+3
Hi, I’m Anika Muhammad, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over a decade of experience in behavioral health. My background includes community mental health, hospitals, housing programs, and veteran services. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relationship stress. I also have extensive experience supporting Veterans and individuals managing complex life challenges. My approach is warm, collaborative, and solution-focused. I use evidence-based methods like CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care to help you understand your thoughts and emotions, build effective coping skills, and feel more in control of your daily life. In our work together, we’ll move at a pace that feels right for you. My goal is to create a supportive space where you can gain insight, build resilience, and move forward with confidence.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Intelligent
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+10
Hi! I'm a California-based Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Diplomate of the Academy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapies. I received my Masters from the University of Southern California and have been practicing for 14 years. I help teens and young adults overcome depression, anxiety, and life transitions. My goal is to inspire my clients to become the best version of themselves by identifying the root causes of their issues and helping them work through them.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented
Open-minded

Specialties

Addiction
Anger Management
Career Counseling
+8
Hi. I'm a licensed clinical social worker and received my Masters from USC. I've provided therapy since 2010. I've spend 14 years working with adolescents but i also having experience working with veterans and people with addiction. I've worked with people that have PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, anger issues, drug and alcohol addictions; I've also facilitated various groups in schools and in psychiatric facilities
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
LGBTQ
Self Esteem
+7
***Please note that although Grow allows clients to schedule their own intakes, I require an initial free 15-minute phone consultation before treatment begins. The purpose of this call is to establish if we're a good fit in regard to style and goals. If we are not able to have that phone consultation at least one day before the intake, I will have to reschedule the intake. Thank you for understanding!*** Let's take a moment to acknowledge you being here! Thank you for finding your way to me, and I hope we can work together to help you make meaningful change in your life. I'm Albert Xiong (he/him/his), and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist with 6 years of experience providing affirming therapy services to a wide variety of clients across multiple settings. As a gay, Chinese American, myself, I get what it's like to navigate facets of our identities that can sometimes feel at odds. After a career of providing services to disenfranchised folks on Medi-Cal, students in a high-achieving high school in the Bay Area, and a small agency, I've found that fostering trusting and supportive relationships goes a long way in being a therapist. In the (virtual) therapy room, you can expect me to be an animated and relatively lighthearted therapist; I pride myself on bringing my genuine self into our therapeutic relationship, and my genuine self is someone who's curious and playful. Milton Erickson said, "patients have grim enough lives, let's not give them grim therapy, too." And while I resonate deeply with this quote, you can expect me to always supply the respect and compassion you deserve when you decide to share about something grim.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+7
I am not taking Couples, but I am taking individuals that are or are not in a relationship and need help. We were never taught how to be in a relationship of any kind. Yes there are tons of books of how to, however to put them to practical use can be very difficult. This can also relate to a relationship with a family member, friends or co-workers. Sometimes our own mental health can influence all of our relationships, and you may need coping techniques for anxiety and or depression type symptoms. I will work with you individually to help you gain insight to your own behavior that may be influencing your relationship. I am here to help beit coping strategies for anxiety and depression symptoms or learning how to communicate more effectively with others.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+4
Have you reached a point in your life where you feel like “enough is enough” and something in your life needs to change? When experiencing difficult emotions or life-changing transitions it can be overwhelming to process them alone. I am Maneka Cooper, LCSW passionate about assisting individuals in their journey to navigate and process the pain, trauma and disappointments that can lead to negative habits or patterns, unrealized potential and generally feeling unfulfilled. I am here to help you pick up and carry on when you don’t feel able. I provide a safe space for you to be yourself until you feel strong enough to make whatever changes you need to make. I value client autonomy and collaboration. I place value on the strengths and resources you already have to help you heal and grow. I utilize an evidenced- based integrative approach to assist each individual, allowing them to feel seen, heard and valued in their unique circumstances. You did a thing! Congratulate yourself for taking the first step, this is usually the toughest! Thank you for your motivation to change! I am honored and look forward to being a part of your journey.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

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
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Life Transitions
Self Esteem
Women's Issues
+4
Providing psychotherapeutic services to those seeking emotional sustenance and healthy psychological support during these very stressful times. I have been working in this field for approximately 20 years now. My experience is with all school grade levels, as well as adults from all walks of life. I find that the ideal patient is open-minded (willing to look at things from different perspectives), consistent (with attendance/self-care/psychoeducation), and humble to learn. My patients have described me as kind, trustworthy, accepting, an excellent mentor, dependable, and down-to-earth. Short-term and long-term assistance provided for: Adults (18+) Individual Therapy Anxiety Depression Coping Skills ADHD Asperger’s Syndrome Autism Spectrum Disorder Codependency Developmental Disorders Intellectual Disability Life Transitions Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Spirituality Stress Women’s Issues Mood Disorders Thinking Disorders Trauma Certified
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Humorous
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+24
Life transitions and unexpected challenges can bring a mix of emotions, including stress, uncertainty, anxiety, sadness, and self-doubt. Whether you are navigating changes in relationships, school, work, identity, family dynamics, or other personal challenges, therapy can provide a supportive space to process these experiences and develop healthier ways of coping. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing therapy in both English and Spanish. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds and strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard and empowered. Over the past several years, I have worked in a variety of settings including schools, community mental health, inpatient psychiatric care, and hospital emergency services, helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, life transitions, and interpersonal challenges.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+6
Hello there my name is Blake and I look forward to getting to know and work with you. I've been fortunate enough to work with all age ranges for the past 8 years providing assistance to those struggling with anxiety, depression, suicidality, post-traumatic stress, as well as grief and loss. I enjoy working alongside my clients utilizing evidence-based techniques to improve the quality of life and reinstall a healthy and sustainable trajectory.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
Hello! My name is Scott. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California, and most recently also Arizona, and truly have a passion for helping others to gain wellness. I am originally from sunny San Diego, California. After working in the field in several roles, I made the decision to ultimately be a Marriage and Family Therapist. Since then, I have truly loved every minute of what I do. My personal philosophy is that healing begins with understanding, connection and hope. I have also recently received a certification as an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider. PLEASE NOTE*** Unfortunately, at this time, I DO NOT SEE COUPLES/FAMILIES.. Additionally, I utilize AI in my practice to help me with my documentation. If you are uncomfortable with the use of AI in our sessions than I would ask that you find another therapist who does not use AI.
VirtualAvailable

Specialties

Anxiety
LGBTQ
Mood Disorders
+10
Hello! My name is Joey Ritkes (he/him) and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters from San Jose State University and my PhD from Alliant International University. I primarily support the LGBTQ+ Community, particularly children and adolescents. Although I do work with clients from various backgrounds and identities. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
+8
Welcome! I believe that hard times create strong people. I offer an inclusive, safe, and nonjudgmental space to transform struggle into clarity, resilience, and empowered action. I provide therapy for adults navigating ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Stress as well as a variety other conditions. I offer a space that is considerate and respectful, but also open and receptive, where you can speak and be heard, and where missing the mark is only another chance to understand each other. If you are searching for something more— more clarity, grounding, or a way to arrange the fragments—and you are willing to be vulnerable, to be known, this is your invitation.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Intelligent
Solution oriented

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.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+6
Hello, I'm Amber Potter, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience. I work with people who are open to growth and curious about the patterns shaping their relationships and experiences. I’m especially drawn to clients who are learning to accept themselves more fully, including the parts that feel imperfect or stuck. Together, we will work toward greater understanding, resilience, and meaningful change.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
+8
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 11 years of experience providing psychotherapy and clinical social work across medical, academic, and private practice settings. My clinical work is grounded in trauma-informed care, psychoeducation, and a commitment to evidence-based, integrative treatment that supports each client’s individual goals and strengths. My experience includes working with adults, adolescents, and families in settings such as UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital and Kaiser Permanente. These diverse environments have informed a comprehensive approach that values collaboration, holistic assessment, and continuity of care.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
First Responders/Healthcare Workers
+10
I have been practicing as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California since 2013 but started my training in mental health as an undergraduate student in 2001. My passion is helping clients with life's transitions while navigating common challenges that come with making difficult decisions or much-needed changes. We all go through difficult times while managing our busy lives, and sometimes we need a little help while going through these changes and making them as smooth as possible.
VirtualAvailable
Challenging
Direct
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
+8
Therapy can easily become a long, slow, drawn-out process. It doesn't have to be that way. I specialize in intensive, short-term dynamic psychotherapy aimed at sustainable relief from your symptoms and struggles as swiftly as possible. To do that, I will challenge you to cut through all the background noise and rumination so we always stay focused on what really matters.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Direct
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Depression
Women's Issues
+4
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the founder of OSUN Family Healing Services, an African-centered mental health initiative dedicated to healing Black women and girls. My work is rooted in cultural identity, emotional healing, and community restoration. I support individuals in reconnecting with themselves beyond survival, addressing the impact of generational trauma, systemic oppression, and disconnection from identity. I am building a space that moves beyond traditional therapy into collective healing, self-awareness, and liberation. My purpose is to help rebuild individuals, families, and communities through culturally grounded, intentional care.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+9
Hello, I am an older adult who came to this career after a long career in the non-profit sector. Over the years, I have worked with a wide variety of clients with a wide variety of issues and circumstances. The bulk of my previous experience in the nonprofit world was in substance use disorder treatment programs. My training as a therapist includes specialized training for a wide variety of disorders. I am known for being empathic, honest and insightful and a relentless cheerleader for my clients. I am very interactive and I will offer liberal doses of feedback and suggestions. I will provide psycho-education and will look to you for feedback about how you are feeling about the therapy. We will address the therapy as a team.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Anger Management
Coping Skills
+5
Struggling about your past, present, or future can feel like being trapped in a maze, isolated and drained of hope. Hi there, I’m Marissa Jian, an LMFT in California offering teletherapy to support individuals navigating these overwhelming feelings. Life is a challenging journey, but remember, you’re not alone; together, we’ll devise a plan to find a way through it. I’ve worked extensively with kids, adolescents, and adults. With over a decade of experience, I understand the complexities of family dynamics and their challenges. As a mother, I’m passionate about helping others navigate these family dynamics. In our sessions, we’ll start by addressing your challenges. From there, we'll collaborate on creating a personalized plan to overcome these obstacles.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+3
Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. 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 Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology, specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy. I’ve had the privilege of working with different demographics in a 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. I generally combine the use of both humanistic and client-centered psychotherapy in my work. With that said, I tailor my services to each client and their clinical needs. While accompanying my clients on their journey of change and growth, I provide them with unconditional compassion and acceptance. My goal is to cultivate an authentic human connection with my clients by creating a safe and comfortable space to explore, promoting growth, and facilitating change.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Solution oriented
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Eating Disorders
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
I am an LPCC in California and an LPC in Texas. My educational background consists of earning my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Master's in clinical counseling, and a Master's in Addictions. I am a National Certified Counselor and am a certified addictions counselor. My past clinical experience includes working for a crisis center where the majority of clients experienced issues related to suicide, homicide, domestic violence, and child and elder abuse. These issues impact people of all ages, races, and ethnic groups. I have also worked for a county-based permanent assisted housing development where all of the clients have experienced episodes of homelessness, and have been significantly impacted by issues of trauma, depression, addictions, domestic violence, and child abuse.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Holistic
Warm

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Hello! Is something holding you back from living life to your fullest potential? Feeling stuck? Anxious? Experiencing a difficult life transition? Depressed and unable to thrive in your current life situation? As a licensed professional clinical counselor and board certified somatic psychotherapist, I will address your concerns with an integrated approach that honors the sacredness of your body, mind & spirit. The body is the carrier of all of our lived experiences, and there is so much wisdom within each of us. I bring a unique perspective of nervous system functioning through Chi for Two® a mindful embodiment method. Scientist Stephen Porges created polyvagal theory. Polyvagal theory helps us recognize anxiety and depression as symptoms of trauma. When we experience trauma, our bodies create nervous system patterning that gets passed down over generations. When our ancestors experienced trauma, their bodies created nervous system patterning that got passed down to us. Chi for Two partner practices help us heal multi-generational trauma. I am interested in tapping into the internal resources you already possess, while providing you with accessible skills to support your journey towards having a life worth living become a reality.
VirtualAvailable
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.