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 1206 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

Authentic
Challenging
Intelligent

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Career Counseling
+10
Gita Rai is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. Gita is committed to providing therapy to individuals, adolescents, and families facing a wide array of challenges. Her areas of specialization include mood disorders, life transitions, anxiety, grief, substance abuse, and eating disorders. Gita has extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She also has a background in supporting neurodivergent (ND) individuals, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), (ADHD), and dual diagnoses. Gita’s approach to therapy centers on creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences and emotions openly. scaffold each client’s narrative, empowering them to heal and cultivate personal growth. Tailoring her therapeutic interventions to meet the unique needs of each client, Gita draws from a range of modalities designed to foster resilience, self-efficacy, and well-being.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Women's Issues
+10
You might be moving through life feeling weighed down by grief, shaken by trauma, or working hard to stay sober while the world keeps spinning around you. Maybe certain memories linger longer than you'd like, or emotions show up in ways that feel too big—or too numb. These experiences can make it hard to feel grounded, especially when you're trying to make sense of who you are now. I know how heavy that can feel. In our work together, I bring warmth, respect, and lived understanding—meeting you wherever you are with care and curiosity, and holding space for who you’ve been and who you’re becoming.
VirtualAvailable

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
Direct
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Life Transitions
+7
My name is Airy Ramirez, pronounced I-ry. As a licensed therapist, I create a warm and engaging environment where healing and growth naturally unfold. Drawing from my clinical training with a specialized focus on children, families, and veterans, I bring depth and versatility to my practice. I believe in meeting clients exactly where they are, while gently guiding them toward their goals with compassion and expertise. Understanding the demands of modern life, I offer flexible scheduling including evening appointments, alongside secure online and phone sessions.
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

Often rebooked

Authentic
Solution oriented
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Men's Issues
+10
Hi, I'm Jonathan. I'm so glad you stopped by to consider services with me. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy with a focus on understanding and helping you individually. Since 2010 I have provided therapy to address a wide range of issues from difficult recent adjustments to long-term, chronic issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relational distress, men's issues, substance use, and ADHD. I like to work collaboratively to find what works best for each person. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you really feel understood. I have a goal-oriented approach that offers tools, skills for coping, and clear, achievable objectives.
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

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
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
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
Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Peer Relationships
Hello and welcome, I'm Kristine! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, California and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. Do you feel like you haven't been enjoying your life the way you would like to - or even the way that you used to? Does it seem like there have been more worries than answers/solutions in your life? I empower high performers to manage depression, anxiety, life transitions and relationship nuances. Together, we can identify what hasn't been working the way that it used to and find ways to sharpen what does work while adding new methods that can balance and bring hope back into your life. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues or the cycles of life transitions - I'm here to help. It takes a lot of courage to seek therapy so I look forward to supporting you in your journey of growth and transformation. You can expect to have a safe, nonjudgemental and empathetic space to feel seen and validated when working with me. When it comes to mental health, I follow a "No B.S." policy - No Blaming&Shaming! Together you and I will use an eclectic and flexible approach in therapy that fits your needs!
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
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

ADHD
Military/Veterans
Substance Misuse
+9
My name is David Serbin. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #147386) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC #15666). Through therapy, I work with clients to help them see the positive storylines in their lives. I help make counseling fun for clients through narrative building, developing strategies for challenging negative self-talk, self-exploration of strengths, and games, among other ways. I believe that each client has the main ingredient for success in therapy: hope.
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
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
Authentic
Warm
Empowering

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
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

Often rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Life Transitions
+10
Greetings! My name is Crystal, I am a therapist with a passion for my work. I come from a client-centered approach because I believe you, the Client, is the expert on the current experience. My experience has taught me from this central humanistic standpoint, the relevant and helpful interventions are at arm's reach. I believe in educating my clients and partnering with them through their unique experience with therapy. I enjoy living in the Joshua Tree area and exploring the beautiful desert. My new and healthier lifestyle is keeping me busy with exercise and cooking. The combination of the two has made my new life a true second chance!
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

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
Open-minded

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Couples Counseling
Anger Management
+8
Rachel Howard is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California, Nationally Board- Certified Art Therapist, Registered Yoga Teacher, Clinical Supervisor & Consultant, as well as a Certified Focusing-Oriented Expressive Arts (FOAT®) Practitioner. She has almost a decade of experience working with children, adults, couples, and families in a therapeutic capacity. She specializes in trauma and family work. She is an integrative psychotherapist – integrating art therapy, play therapy, sand tray, mindfulness, astrology, spirituality, and more into therapy. She describes her approach as holistic, compassionate, mindful, playful, creative, grounded, and prioritizes compassionate listening. While working with her clients, Rachel holds the deep knowing and belief that each of our minds, body, and spirit are naturally moving toward health and healing. That we are all born with an innate and inherent wholeness that can often get lost in our culture as we grow or due to traumas where help was not available at that time. Rachel holds a heartfelt and safe space for the natural healing of her clients.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Perinatal Mental Health
+6
Hi there! I’m Beatriz, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Southern California, offering therapy statewide through Telehealth. I’m a Latina bilingual Spanish speaking therapist with many years of mental health experience. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, perinatal and maternal mental health, life transitions, and trauma. With a specialized certification in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C), I work closely with new and expecting mothers experiencing postpartum depression, anxiety, and the unique challenges of motherhood. My passion is to create a space where clients feel seen, heard, and supported. My therapeutic style is warm, casual, and down to earth. I take a holistic and individualized approach, recognizing that every client’s journey is unique. Together, we’ll discover what works best for you and move toward healing and growth.
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
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
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.