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 1426 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: 8/4/2026

Solution oriented
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
LGBTQ
Mood Disorders
+1
I am a Doctor of Psychology and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 37 years of experience in the field. During that time, I worked on issues of domestic violence, community violence, and child abuse while on staff at several community, not-for-profit, and governmental agencies in the San Francisco Bay Area (CA). I have been in private practice for over 29 years.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Intelligent
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Men's Issues
+8
After studying Social Work in New York City, I worked in various hospital systems before rounding out my education in a post-graduate training program in my native California. In 2020 I went into private practice in Oakland where I’ve enjoyed helping people learn about themselves and what they want out of life and how to move towards that richer way of being.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Warm
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Coping Skills
+3
Hi, I’m Sandy. I have a passion for working with children and teenagers who are facing challenges in school, dealing with anxiety, depression, anger issues, peer relationships, or family struggles. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard and understood. You don’t have to go through this journey alone. Together, we’ll set meaningful goals and explore strategies to help navigate life’s ups and downs. I’m excited to work with you and help you achieve the growth and change you're seeking. I look forward to meeting you!
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
+4
Hey everyone, my name is Thomas! I am an LCSW with over 5 years experience working with clients. I work with adults and couples navigating self-worth issues and relationship patterns rooted in past or present wounds. My approach is depth-oriented, relational, and focused on real change—not just insight. Clients often come seeking relief, clarity, and a more secure sense of self and connection.
Available
Authentic
Warm
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Autism
Coping Skills
My name is Jennifer O’Grady and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Orange County, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents, and adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, autism, and intellectual and learning disabilities, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Solution Focused Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Intelligent
Warm

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+10
You may be on the right path, but stumbled, fell, or got lost along the way. Or you may be struggling to find the path. I want to help. In therapy, I aim to create a calm, sturdy, emotionally open, and radically nonjudgmental space where you can be deeply curious about your own experience. A patient, open-ended space where you can take your time. A space where you can slow down, breathe, reflect, be quiet or silent. A space where you can be loud, angry, triggered, upset. A space where you don't have to make sense, but we can try to make sense of things together. A space where we both can be genuinely curious about who you are.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Intelligent
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+4
My name is Farbod. I am a second generation Persian-American. My own background continues to shape the way I approach this work. Growing up in California I often felt caught between two cultures—never quite fitting into either. I approach therapy through a combination of learning skills to work through stress, guiding clients to better understanding themselves, and a space to be heard. I also am an avid gamer (tabletop and video games), home cook, and runner.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Eating Disorders
+4
I’m Dr. William C. Shearer (Dr. Bill), a California licensed psychologist since 1977. I am the co-author of Mindful Choices for Well-Being, Being the Right Partner, The Couple’s Paradox, and Repair and Reconnection, Be the Change You Want to See in Your Relationship. Our book Getting It Right is pending publication. In my clinical work, I have three specializations. First, I deal with troubled relationships. Over 85% of my work is couples counseling. I have over four decades of experience, and I have been trained and certified in several couples therapy modalities. My wife Robin, also a therapist, and I have developed an integrative model of couples therapy we call Mindful Choices Couples Therapy. For a second specialization, I have also worked for 30-plus years in the treatment of addictive and compulsive behaviors (alcohol dependence, drug abuse, gambling, etc.), and eating disorders such as Anorexia Nervosa, and Bulimia. Finally, I specialize in treating stress and anxiety disorders such as panic disorder.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Depression
Grief
Postpartum
+10
Hello, my name is Leslie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have my Bachelor's in Psychology from UCR and Master's in Social Work from CSUSB. I have experience working with individuals through all spans of life from childhood to end of life. I currently work with individual adults who are navigating depression, postpartum experiences, life transitions, work-related stress, and questions around spiritual well-being. I understand that even the most capable people can feel overwhelmed, disconencted, or unsure of their next steps in life- and reaching out for support is a meaningful first step toward change.
Available
Direct
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+10
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in California. I have received my Masters from Walden University and have been practicing for 9 years. I have worked with both adults and children. Most of my work has targeted the effects of trauma. I am committed to helping people understand the root of their behaviors, thought processes, and emotions. It is important for individuals to gather understanding of the “why” of their bases of thoughts, feelings, and symptoms. Stressors are a part of this thing called life and it is important that we have the proper tools to navigate each stressor while managing our emotions appropriately. I am passionate about creating a safe place for individuals to become vulnerable to work towards their personal goals. Cultural backgrounds are very important for me to consider when working with any client to gather a deeper understanding of perspective. We all come from different walks of life and each individual has a unique path to similar goals of living a healthy life.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Intelligent
Direct

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+10
I am a 36-year-old Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) originally from Los Angeles. Before becoming a therapist, I worked in nursing while serving in the United States Air Force, where I gained valuable experience supporting individuals through medical and personal challenges. I have been practicing therapy since 2018 and am passionate about helping adults navigate life stressors, emotional difficulties, and personal growth. My approach is compassionate, client-centered, and supportive, and I strive to create a safe space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered throughout their healing process.
Available
Solution oriented
Direct
Empowering

Specialties

Depression
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+5
My name is Jonathan Meza, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I have been working in the mental health field since 2008. My practice is based in the Los Angeles area in Southern California, but I am also available via telehealth for clients throughout the state. Finding the right therapist for you is important. I'm known for being a great listener, and a kid at heart. I'm a believer that life’s hardships can be opportunities for amazing growth. My approach is to gently challenge my clients with sensitivity for everyone's unique pace in self-discovery and motivation to achieve their goals.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Direct
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+6
I love walking alongside people at every stage of life, from young adolescents figuring out big emotions for the first time, to parents working toward reunification with their children, to older adults facing the realities of long-term illness. Wherever you're starting from, I want you to feel like you have a steady, supportive partner in your corner. My work is shaped by years spent supporting families through reunification, teenagers navigating overwhelming emotions, and older adults managing chronic illness. I bring that same steady presence to every client I work with, no matter where you're starting from.
VirtualAvailable

New to Grow

Specialties

Couples Counseling
Domestic Violence
Military/Veterans
+5
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience specializing in domestic violence and substance abuse treatment. I came to the field of therapy later in life, and I believe my own life experiences help me connect with others in a genuine, empathetic, and nonjudgmental way. I live in the San Diego area with my husband on a small farm filled with animals. When I’m not working, I enjoy traveling, gardening, and creating art—activities that help me stay grounded, creative, and connected to the world around me.
Available
Authentic
Warm
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like life isn’t quite yours? I help adults navigate: anxiety, depression, complex ADHD/ADD, generational trauma, perfectionism, codependency, people-pleasing, and interpersonal conflict. I also support people during times of transition or entering a different phase in life that can be difficult to experience. I take an integrative and personalized approach by blending compassion, humor, and practical strategies to help you regain clarity, confidence, and a life that truly feels like your own. Whether you’re struggling with stress, feeling lost, or ready for meaningful change, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Let’s work together to make life feel a little lighter… and finally stop arguing with your own brain at 2 a.m.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
+9
Hello, I’m Vitus Onusuru, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California practicing since 2018. I serve individuals, couples, and families who are navigating relationship challenges, communication barriers, parenting stress, and transitions that affect overall well-being. With unconditional regard for every client and a deep sense of compassion, I help you feel seen, heard, and understood, so you can move toward healthier dynamics, stronger connections, and lasting change. What sets my work apart: culturally sensitive care that respects where you’re coming from, collaborative goal-setting, and evidence-based strategies drawn from systems, attachment, and mindfulness-informed approaches. I’ll walk beside you with warmth, respect, and practical tools you can apply in daily life—whether you’re repairing a relationship, improving parenting, or seeking personal growth. Beyond therapy, I value curiosity, travel, adventure, fashion, and family, which informs a humane, client-centered approach that honors your unique background and life story. If you’re ready to embark on a journey toward more fulfilling relationships and a more resilient you, I’m here to support you every step of the way.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Intelligent
Open-minded

Specialties

ADHD
Autism
Learning Disabilities
+10
Hello, I am a neurodivergent human who enjoys reading, gardening, drinking coffee, binge-watching TV, listening to music, and drinking coffee/tea. One of my favorite hobbies is collecting hobbies! I love cats and dogs but am allergic to both--feel free to let your pets interrupt sessions! Early mornings are my least favorite part of the day so I avoid scheduling responsibilities before 10AM.
Available

Often rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

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
Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Hi, and welcome. I’m a licensed psychologist who is passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence, self-understanding, and resilience. I believe that therapy works best when you feel truly seen, heard, and supported, so I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can be yourself. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship concerns, life transitions, or simply feeling stuck, I work collaboratively with you to understand your experiences and identify practical tools for change. My goal is to help you build on your strengths, gain insight, and create a life that feels more balanced, meaningful, and authentic.
Available

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQ
+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
Authentic
Empowering
Direct

Specialties

Life Transitions
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
Self Esteem
+4
Through connection, empathy and a non-judgmental approach, I offer ways to help you discover what may be blocking you from finding your true path in life. By not seeing an individual for what symptoms they have or what is affecting them, I am more interested in helping you find what is the cause of symptoms and how to process them. I work with adults from all backgrounds. I am also open to any culture, belief, identification or orientation. All are welcome. I base all individual therapy on a client-focused approach and adapt sessions to the needs of each person.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Peer Relationships
Sex Therapy
Women's Issues
Hi, I’m Kristina Gianola, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist passionate about helping people feel more connected to themselves and others. I take a warm, down-to-earth approach, creating a safe space where you can explore your emotions, heal past wounds, and move toward healthier patterns. My work is rooted in systems and parts work, meaning we’ll look at how your relationships and different aspects of yourself shape your experiences. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, or relationship challenges, we’ll work together to help you build insight, confidence, and lasting change.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Women's Issues
+10
I applaud your courage and strength in taking the first step toward well-being. My approach is Holistic and culturally sensitive, with individually tailored goals that address Mind, Body, and Spirit Wellness. I am here to provide a safe space without judgment or shame and walk alongside you on your healing journey to positive changes in behaviors and lifestyles. My clients are individuals, couples, LGBTQ+ with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, life's transitions and family or relationship challenges. I can appreciate clients who want to heal & improve their lives. They are willing to make the necessary changes to build inner strengths, increase feelings of empowerment, implement boundaries, and learn to Trust vulnerabilities in healthy relationships.
Available
Solution oriented
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+10
Hello! I’m Gloria, a Filipina licensed clinical psychologist originally from Guam, now based in the Bay Area, CA. I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and have specialized training in treating depression, anxiety, addiction, and multicultural concerns, areas that continue to guide my work today. My clinical experience includes working in a variety of settings, where I’ve supported clients through identity exploration, emotional challenges, and major life transitions. I integrate evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing, and tailor each session to your unique needs and goals. Before becoming a psychologist, I spent eight years as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in a memory care unit, supporting individuals with dementia and their families. That experience shaped my understanding of caregiver stress and inspired my doctoral dissertation, which focused on the emotional impact of caregiving. It also deepened my belief that self-care and balance aren’t luxuries, they’re essential to our well-being. At the core of my work is the belief that therapy should be a safe, inclusive, and empowering space, one where your full self is welcomed and affirmed. I bring a deep commitment to cultural sensitivity, authenticity, and compassion, drawing from both my professional training and lived experience. Therapy with me is not just about managing challenges, it’s about growth, healing, and creating a life that feels true to you. I look forward to walking alongside you on that journey.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
+4
Hi, I’m Tyana Larise Ingram, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Financial Social Worker with over 10 years of experience supporting women through life's challenges. I help women navigate burnout, grief, anxiety, financial stress, and major life transitions while reconnecting with their strengths and sense of self. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs, with optional Christian faith integration available for those who desire it.
Available
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.