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 1111 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: 4/17/2026

Often rebooked

Authentic
Intelligent
Warm

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
VirtualAvailable
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Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi there, I'm Bridget, Our world is a busy and ever-changing place. With these changes can come stressors that can lead to anxiety, depression and interpersonal struggles. Do you find yourself unable to focus, or maybe struggling to enjoy things you once loved? Sometimes, we all need a place to be heard and understood. Sometimes, we just need some space to share and explore our own emotions in a non-judgemental and unbiased space. There is no "one size fits all" approach to therapy, I am honored to have the opportunity to work with you to achieve your goals and find peace. I practice an open, empathic approach to therapy using multiple different evidence-based modalities to help find a good fit for you as an individual. Reaching out for help can be difficult and takes a great deal of strength, I am so glad you are here and taking these first steps. Whether you are dealing with interpersonal struggles, depression, anxiety, trauma, life stressors or other concerns, I will meet you with compassion and understanding, and walk alongside you on this journey to healing and growth.
VirtualAvailable
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Often rebooked

Authentic
Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

Addiction
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+9
My therapeutic style is grounded in a holistic and integrative framework, which empowers me to provide personalized care that aligns with each client's distinct situation and clinical needs. I am committed to cultivating a safe and nurturing space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. As I walk alongside clients on their path to healing, I remain flexible and responsive, adjusting my approach to support their growth and development at every stage.
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Authentic
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+6
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who practiced for ten years in a nationally recognized outpatient healthcare clinic before beginning my solo practice. 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 provided an extraordinary learning environment and allowed me to benefit from collaboration with amazing clinicians who share my passion to help others. I now continue to utilize the skills and experience I've accumulated to share these benefits with my clients.
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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.
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Empowering
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+8
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe healing happens through connection, compassion, and understanding. I partner with clients to explore patterns, build coping skills, and develop greater self-awareness in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment. My work is informed by trauma-informed care and a holistic perspective that honors each client’s lived experience. My goal is to help clients feel more grounded, confident, and aligned with their values.
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Often rebooked

Warm
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
+6
Are you new to therapy or on the lookout for the right guide? Greetings, I'm Jennifer, a client-centered therapist with a passion for assisting clients in navigating their habits, work environments, relationships, and emotions. Our collaboration will involve uncovering and establishing goals while working to better understand the challenges that get in our way and how to build skills to overcome them. With a total of 11 years in the mental health field and 6 years of dedicated therapeutic practice, I've developed a specialty in assisting clients confront challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. Within our therapy sessions, I also integrate humor to create a warm and comfortable environment. If you appreciate a dose of laughter then feel free to book a session and let's see if we are a good fit!
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Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Fertility & Reproduction Issues
Perinatal Mental Health
Postpartum
+3
Many of the people I work with are navigating postpartum anxiety, intrusive thoughts after having a baby, or the emotional stress of fertility treatment. These experiences can feel overwhelming and isolating, even when everything looks “fine” from the outside. I’m Dr. Saira Jhutty, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in reproductive mental health, including postpartum anxiety, intrusive thoughts after having a baby, and the emotional challenges of fertility treatment. I work with individuals and couples navigating infertility, pregnancy after loss, third-party reproduction, and the complex transition into parenthood. My approach integrates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with a strong focus on self-compassion and values-based living. Rather than trying to “fix” difficult emotions, we work together to understand them and find ways to move forward that feel sustainable — especially during times when life feels uncertain or overwhelming. My style is warm, collaborative, and grounded. Many of the people I work with feel exhausted, anxious, or unlike themselves after a baby or during fertility treatment. Therapy can be a space where you slow down, make sense of what you're experiencing, and begin to feel more like yourself again. Whether you’re navigating postpartum anxiety or depression, identity shifts after becoming a parent, pregnancy after infertility, or the emotional weight of fertility decisions, you don’t have to carry it alone.
VirtualAvailable
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Often rebooked

Authentic
Solution oriented
Challenging

Specialties

Addiction
Family Conflict
Parenting
+10
As a provider, my greatest strengths lie in my deep empathy, active listening, and a commitment to mindful curiosity. I believe you are the expert on your own life, and I strive to create a safe, supportive space where your unique story can be truly heard and valued. Rather than simply diagnosing a problem, I listen for the 'hidden' stories of your strengths and values that often get overshadowed. My approach to active listening is about more than just understanding; it’s about standing alongside you to deconstruct the challenges you face and uncover the skills you already possess. Together, we will collaborate to rewrite the narratives that no longer serve you, fostering a therapeutic relationship built on trust, respect, and the reclamation of your personal agency.
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Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Spirituality
+6
Hi there, I'm Elena! Hi! I'm here to help you have the life you want, as sometimes life becomes challenging, and adjusting to life changes isn't always easy. I am glad that you prioritize your needs by coming here for help. I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I began therapy practice during my MA Program at JFKU in CA. For over 10 years, I've worked in various settings, including not-for-profit mental health agencies and private practice. I believe that treatment is a collaborative approach. I look forward to taking the journey of healing with you. 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 hangups and habits holding you back.
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Often rebooked

Solution oriented
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Family Conflict
Life Transitions
+9
Hi my name is Dianna Gibson and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working with all types of clients throughout California. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, caregiving challenges, and parenting. Prior to becoming a clinical social worker, I worked with children and families in the Child Welfare Services System for twelve years after graduating from college with my social work degree. Furthermore, as a former foster youth, I am very familiar with the impacts of child abuse and neglect on a child leading to severe childhood trauma and PTSD and am passionate about helping individuals address unresolved trauma and familial conflict in order to live a meaningful life and gain a sense of resilience and empowerment. My personal and professional experience has allowed to me help clients navigate anxiety, depression, life transitions, family stressors, and identity exploration while building coping skills, strengthening relationships, and cultivating a stronger sense of self. My approach is solution-focused, strengths based, practical, collaborative, and directed toward future restoration. I work with people where they are, guiding them to where they want to be. Transparency is so important as well as implementing laughter as a key component to our everyday healing. Together we will connect, laugh, and rebuild the life you once enjoyed. Furthermore, as a Black clinician, I also provide a unique perspective by integrating a strong multicultural framework to fully understand your experiences, relationships and the way you navigate in the world around you.
VirtualAvailable
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Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
+3
I help overwhelmed and burned-out adults navigate anxiety and major life transitions with a grounded, integrative approach to therapy. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience in the mental health field, I offer a calm, supportive space where you can slow down, reconnect, and feel understood. My work blends somatic awareness, mindfulness, and evidence-based therapy to help you regulate stress, restore balance, and build resilience. I'm also a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional. This informs my whole-person approach, with thoughtful attention to the nervous system, lifestyle influences, and nutrition as part of overall emotional well-being.
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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.
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Often rebooked

Intelligent
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
LGBTQ
+7
Hi there, I’m Douglas. When anxiety, uncertainty, or burnout take over, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of your next step. It doesn’t have to stay that way. I work primarily with gay men and LGBTQ+ adults who appear confident on the outside but feel anxious, scattered, or self-critical underneath. Many are high-achieving professionals navigating ADHD, rumination, identity stress, or relationship challenges while trying to meet strong internal and external expectations. As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, and ADHD Clinical Services Provider, I bring both structure and depth to our work. Together, we’ll identify patterns that keep you stuck, regulate emotional reactivity, and build practical systems that support clarity and follow-through. Therapy with me blends insight with action—so change feels steady, grounded, and sustainable. If you’re ready to feel more centered, confident, and aligned in your life and relationships, I’d be honored to support you.
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Empowering
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Janet Distefan, PhD LMFT is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She received a B.A. from the University of California, San Diego; an M.A. in Counseling Psychology from National University and a Ph.D. in Behavioral Epidemiology from the University of California, San Diego. She has been licensed since 2006 providing comprehensive clinical care for issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, bipolar disorder, relational difficulties, grief and loss, and major life transitions. Her clinical practice is collaborative and strength-based, drawing from cognitive-behavioral, object relations and attachment theories; and mindfulness-based stress reduction.
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Direct
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Chronic Illness
LGBTQ
+3
Hello, I am a therapist who focuses on improving the lives of his clients. I will help empower them to enrich their lives. Together we can explore methods on helping the individual deal with everyday life stressors and also past trauma. I am someone who wants to see their clients excel and be able to manage life's difficulties. Hoping to help my clients see positive results in therapy.
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Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Hi there, I'm Steven. Do you feel that life has become hard to handle? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health, or maybe the things that used to make you feel productive? When was the last time you were kind to yourself? I help people manage their distressing mood changes and unexpected stresses. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a holistic approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. We will work to uncover the "healthy" you that has been stymied by the tough circumstances you find yourself in. Let's do this together. 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 your challenges.
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Authentic
Humorous
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+6
I work with adults and adolescents who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or worn down by anxiety, depression, life changes, or relationship stress. My approach is compassionate, honest, and collaborative—blending practical tools with real connection. Therapy with me is a space where you don’t have to hold everything together. We move through what you’re carrying at your pace, focusing on building clarity, resilience, and a stronger sense of self so you can feel more grounded and supported in your everyday life.
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Empowering
Humorous
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
LGBTQ
Military/Veterans
+3
Hello and welcome! I have been a licensed psychologist in California since 2016. My goal is to help individuals enhance their sense of well being and experience a greater sense of meaning in their lives. This can be done by acquiring coping skills to identify, and refute unhelpful habits of thinking, increase self-compassion and self-care. My approach to counseling is strengths based and empowerment focused. I use a collaborative and egalitarian style with people who I works with in counseling. When meeting with me for the first time, clients can expect an opportunity to explore presenting concerns and potential goals for treatment. I received my Bachelors degree Psychology from the George Washington University, my first Masters degree in Psychology from Pepperdine University and my second Masters degree and Doctorate in Clinical-Community Psychology from the University of La Verne. When I’m not working with clients, you can find me in the garden!
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Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQ
+8
My name is Jason Newman and I am a therapist that loves DBT skills. In my therapy practice I use a lot of these skills along solid’s narrative techniques to help clients find new ways of being in the world. I enjoy being able to help my clients grow and figure out what they need to do to feel more successful. I always believe everyone is doing the best they can with the skills they have, and we will learn new ones!
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Often rebooked

Solution oriented
Intelligent
Direct

Specialties

Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
+9
My name is Anna Grabarczyk (grah-bar-chick). European-born and raised, I bring over 12 years of clinical experience. My approach is engaging, action-oriented, and solution-focused, while always grounded in compassion and empathy. I value working with people from diverse backgrounds and strive to integrate a broad psychological and cultural perspective into therapy. With deep respect for different belief systems, I also recognize and thoughtfully address the spiritual dimension of emotional healing when it is meaningful to the client. I focus on several approaches, including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Solution-Focused therapy Trauma-Informed care Attachment-Based theory EMDR Ericksonian techniques
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Challenging
Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Substance Misuse
Trauma and PTSD
+4
I work with adults who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or worn down by stress, trauma, substance-related challenges, or major life transitions. My approach is practical, respectful, and grounded, with a focus on helping you feel understood while building tools that support real, day-to-day change. I bring a steady and structured presence to therapy and offer services in both English and Spanish. My goal is to help you gain clarity, strengthen coping skills, and move forward with confidence at a pace that feels right for you.
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Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Are you a woman or man in your 30s or 40s feeling overwhelmed by work, parenting, or life changes? I am a psychotherapist who helps women navigate midlife transitions, manage anxiety, and reclaim confidence and balance. Having personally experienced the challenges of motherhood, demanding career, and divorce, I bring both professional expertise and lived experience to our work together. I integrate EMDR to process past experiences and reduce emotional distress, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) to guide you toward a meaningful life, and values-based strategies to clarify what truly matters to you. I also use the Enneagram as a tool for self-awareness and understanding relational patterns. Together, we’ll develop practical strategies for stress management, self-discovery, and creating the life you truly want—whether that means thriving in your career, strengthening relationships, or finding more peace in your everyday life.
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Authentic
Empowering
Direct

Specialties

Career Counseling
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.
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Empowering
Authentic
Warm

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.
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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.