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.

Availability updated: 4/18/2026

Often rebooked

Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Depression
+10
My name is Alma Acevez, a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I am an English/ Spanish speaking therapist with over 13 years of experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression/Relationships. I use CBT/Psychodynamic/TF-CBT to help navigate challenges and create a safe space to grow. I believe everyone has the capacity for healing and I'm here to guide you. When I am not in session you can find me spending time with family, cooking new dishes and listening to audiobooks. Let's connect and explore how therapy can support you.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Depression
+7
I am a dedicated therapist with over a decade of experience helping clients navigate emotional challenges and create meaningful change in their lives. Since 2010, I have been using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) to support individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties, and emotional regulation. My goal is to empower clients by providing practical tools and strategies that promote resilience, emotional balance, and personal growth, helping them build fulfilling and healthier lives.
VirtualAvailable
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
Authentic
Humorous
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Self Esteem
+6
Congratulations, starting the journey towards seeking help is one of the biggest step. My name is Assaf Jaffe and over the past 20 years it has been my privilege to walk alongside client working to make changes. Having trained in Holistic Therapy at Native American Health Center I have tremendous experience with trauma, anxiety, depression and treating addictive disorders. In these communities I learned the importance of connecting with my clients on a deep interpersonal basis. I also learned that having a variety of effective techniques to reduce symptoms and problems was vitally effective once a solid relation was established. As a strength based Psychologist, I strongly feel I can engage my client in the aspects of their life that are already most successful and utilize these tools to address their current problems. IF you think solution focused individual, couples or family therapy can benefit you currently, I believe I am the ideal therapist for you.
VirtualAvailable

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!
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

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
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.
VirtualAvailable

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

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.
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

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.
VirtualAvailable
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.
VirtualAvailable
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.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Solution oriented
Challenging

Specialties

Couples Counseling
Family Therapy
Women's Issues
+9
Welcome. My name is Tannaz Talasazan, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I invite you into a supportive, collaborative space where feelings are processed, thoughts are heard, perspectives are respected, and meaningful change becomes possible. Life can present challenges that feel overwhelming, especially when we don’t always have the tools to navigate them. Reaching out for therapy is a powerful first step. Together, we will identify emotional patterns, relational dynamics, and internal obstacles that may be holding you back, while working toward insight, clarity, and lasting change. Over the past 13 years of training and clinical experience, I have worked with individuals, couples, women, families, adolescents, adults, and older adults, with a focus on relationship concerns, life transitions, conflict resolution, and crisis management. I especially enjoy supporting couples in strengthening communication and connection, helping women and individuals navigate personal growth and identity, and working with older adults as they process life transitions, relationships, and meaning. My therapeutic approach is integrative and tailored to each client’s unique needs. I draw from Family Systems, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused, and Narrative therapies, carefully matching each approach to support insight, emotional growth, and practical change.
VirtualAvailable
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.
VirtualAvailable
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.
VirtualAvailable
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!
VirtualAvailable
Intelligent
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Couples Counseling
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+11
We are all faced with challenges. These challenges can create limitations that interfere with gaining a sense of self, forming healthy relationships, and pursuing our goals. I believe we should not allow these obstacles to dictate how we respond to the environment around us. Learning healthy coping skills, challenging negative self talk, and setting effective boundaries can facilitate desired outcomes in our daily life. Given the opportunity, I would enjoy working with you right where you are. Let’s get to work!
VirtualAvailable
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.
VirtualAvailable
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.
VirtualAvailable
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.
VirtualAvailable
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.
VirtualAvailable
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
Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Parenting
Perinatal Mental Health
Postpartum
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in helping women navigate anxiety, overwhelm, and the emotional challenges that come with different stages of life. For more than 20 years, I have worked with women and families in medical and maternal health settings, including OB/GYN practices and postpartum programs. These experiences have given me a deep understanding of the pressures many women carry while balancing relationships, parenting, work, and caregiving responsibilities. Many of the women I work with appear capable and “together” on the outside but feel stressed, anxious, or emotionally exhausted internally. They often feel responsible for keeping everything running smoothly for their families while quietly managing their own worries, self-doubt, or sense of overwhelm. In therapy, I offer a warm and supportive space where you can slow down and talk openly about what you’re experiencing. Together we explore the patterns contributing to stress or anxiety and develop practical tools to help you feel more grounded, confident, and balanced in your daily life.
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.