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 1292 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: 8/16/2026

Authentic
Solution oriented
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+4
Thank you for sharing information about yourself. I'm so happy that you reached out for help. I am Robert Nwanganga, a licensed therapist. I have been a Social Worker since 2003. I also need to let you know that I am more interested in finding out why a certain behavior is occurring than I am in demonizing you for exhibiting the behavior. I have worked with a diverse populations and I have learned that therapy has to be personal if it is to be effective. I am committed to working with you in finding what modality works with your personality and focus on your strength in dealing with the situation that brought you to us.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Addiction
LGBTQ
Trauma and PTSD
+2
Do you feel held back by experiences you can't seem to move on from? Do you know your goals, but struggle to find the path to get there? Are you looking for a space to better understand yourself, your past, and the person you want to be in the future? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in trauma recovery, depression, anxiety, and substance use. I am here to help you dive into understanding not only how to grow in the present, but also what pieces have come together to create the person you are today. We don't exist in a vacuum, therefore I take a holistic approach that works with the confluence of mental, social, and cultural factors surrounding each individual. One of the most difficult parts of therapy is choosing to begin. Congratulations for making it this far. I would be overjoyed to walk alongside you as you continue on this journey of growth and self-love.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Intelligent
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Hello, my name is Asher and I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist that specializes in trauma, addiction and anxiety disorders. I specialize in working with children ages 10-18 years of age. I also specialize in working with adults with an emphasis on memory and aging disorders. I am a brainspotting practitioner which is a trauma/anxiety treatment in the same family of EMDR.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+10
Hi, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I received my Bachelor's in Psychology and Sociology at the University of Washington, as well as my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy at Chapman University. I believe in guiding individuals towards their authentic selves and empowering them to live fulfilling lives. My goal is to help you identify your aspirations, overcome obstacles, and develop strategies to achieve your true potential.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Humorous

Specialties

Eating Disorders
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Hi! My name is Carli Sterling (she/her) I am an LMFT in CA. I have a bachelors degree in psychology from UC Santa Cruz and Masters in Counseling Psychology from Palo Alto University. Trauma informed care and eating disorders are my wheelhouse. Wheelhouses? Wheel homes. Outside of therapy, I enjoy yoga, wakeboarding, making beats, and geeking out on investment strategies and cryptocurrency. During the pandemic I taught myself how to change fancy watch batteries and install closetmaid systems. Additionally, I am now a YouTube trained Rubik's cube solver. I have a 4 year old mini me; I work from home and she is the worst co worker I’ve ever had. Always open to consult and help in any way I can.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+8
Hi, I’m Loc. If life feels heavy right now—stress, anxiety, low mood, relationship strain, or burnout—you don’t have to sort through it alone. I help clients manage anxiety and depression, prevent burnout, and create practical changes that bring them back to balance. Together we’ll identify what’s not working, understand the patterns keeping you stuck, and build tools you can use in real life—not just in session. Starting therapy can feel intimidating, but it’s a meaningful step. You deserve a supportive, judgment-free space to breathe, heal, and grow. If you’re ready, I’d be happy to work with you.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Intelligent

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
Open-minded
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
+4
With over 10 years of experience as a social worker and mental health professional, I am passionate about helping individuals step into their future. Working on empowerment, healing, and guiding through the complexity of life. My approach to providing treatment is rooted in empathy and active listening. I make it a priority to check in with clients regularly to ensure they feel supported and heard. I believe in allowing clients to guide me through their own journey, honoring their autonomy and lived experiences, while also providing gentle guidance and appropriate challenges to foster growth and resilience.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+8
I am a compassionate, collaborative therapist who supports individuals and couples in achieving their therapy goals using evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotion-Focused Therapy, along with integrative techniques tailored to each client’s needs. I focus on helping clients develop healthier coping skills, improve communication, strengthen emotional awareness, establish balanced routines, and cultivate more fulfilling relationships. My work also emphasizes fostering self-compassion, assertiveness, confidence, and positive perspectives on life circumstances. My approach is direct yet supportive, solution-focused, and grounded in practical tools and guidance, empowering clients to feel confident and supported throughout their therapeutic journey. I bring my genuine self, professional knowledge, and years of experience to create a trusting, collaborative relationship where both client and therapist can feel confident in working together.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Spirituality
+4
I believe it is in coming together to awaken that true transformation is possible. We are all individuals with different perspectives that weave a web of one; We can enlighten each other into new ways of learning or perceiving the world around us. I understand that to be a capable helper, to help guide people through their own fires, I must be willing to pass through the dark myself, and grasp and embody how to navigate those pathways. It was only after dancing with my own shadows, holding steady and falling apart in scary and confusing times, experiencing deep and powerful medicine, and not understanding how it fit into my everyday reality, moving through that fire and fumbling my way through the dark, trusting lightness, finding the courage to move forward, that I felt ready to take a step, embodied and empowered to honor my calling, the ways in which I give back. It is a continual journey. I am still learning. I have spent the last 25+ years working and playing with conscious personal growth, traversing pathways of dark and light, with dance, namely the Open Floor and 5Rhythms movement meditation as my main spiritual practice. Throughout my many years of traveling through countries in Europe, Asia, North and South America, I have learned so much from life, different cultures, and teachers of indigenous traditions, settling on the Big Island of Hawai'i on my off-grid homestead. It has been through these lenses that I learned the most about how to be with, accept, and move through stuckness, struggle, and transition. My personal experiences all inform me, offering a greater perspective, and are woven together with my training to create a truly unique practice for us to explore together the magic of the healing journey.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). In 1991, I obtained a B.H. in Social Psychology from The Universidad Autonoma de Baja California (Mexico). In 2008, I graduated from University of Phoenix with an M.A. in Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy. I have more than 22 years of experience working with patients—including adolescents, parents, adults, and couples. My focus is on improving relationships and addressing mental or emotional issues such as depression, anxiety, phobias, trauma, psychosocial stressors, life challenges, and personal goals.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Postpartum
Women's Issues
+1
Hello, my name is Maria Genter Hester I am a licensed marriage family therapist they have been in private practice on and off for about 20 years. I love working with families and teens I have a specialty in postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, I also have training in dealing with perinatal loss, abortion, miscarriage and grief. I love helping people who are interested in using their faith background to further their healing and achieve the life that they want. Most of my training has been in cognitive behavioral therapy and family systems. I earned my Masters in Counseling Psychology at the University of San Francisco, I reside in San Diego. I love the outdoors, hiking beach, art, cooking, and activities with my family and friends.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Life Transitions
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience, I specialize in helping couples strengthen their connection, improve communication, rebuild trust, and navigate relationship challenges with greater understanding and intimacy. Using a holistic, mindfulness-centered approach, I support partners in identifying negative relationship patterns, fostering emotional safety, and developing healthier ways of connecting with one another. In addition to my work with couples, I draw on my extensive background in family services to support individuals and families through emotional, relational, and life transitions. My experience as a therapist and entrepreneur, including multiple women’s empowerment ventures, allows me to bring both clinical expertise and real-world perspective to the therapeutic process. My goal is to help clients create meaningful, lasting change and build stronger, more fulfilling relationships.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+7
✦ At this time, new client availability is limited to morning and afternoon appointments. Evening sessions (4:00 PM and later) are reserved for established clients only, even if evening openings appear available online. Hola! I’m a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed psychotherapist (LMFT) based in California with a decade of experience. I received my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy with an emphasis in Clinical Art Therapy from Loyola Marymount University. I specialize in supporting adolescents and adults of all ages who are facing mental health challenges that affect their daily lives and aspirations. As an art therapist, I offer art therapy sessions where no previous art experience is necessary. This approach combines traditional psychotherapy with creative expression to help you process emotions and integrate body and mind.
VirtualAvailable

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Family Conflict
+9
Hi, I'm Alyssa. I believe therapy works best when people feel genuinely seen, supported, and accepted. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in curiosity rather than judgment. I enjoy helping people better understand themselves, navigate life's challenges, and create healthier patterns in their relationships. Whether you're facing a difficult season or seeking personal growth, I strive to provide a space where you can feel safe, supported, and empowered to make meaningful change.
Available

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Does life keep lifing? Every time you get up, another barrier is presented. I can help you obtain your resilience and confidence to handle anything that comes your way. I can help you increase your self-esteem and your voice, and start healing from your past so that you can show up as your best self... Becoming unstoppable! ****PLEASE NOTE: Anyone with high acuity/high risk will not be appropriate for tele-health. National Suicide Hotline: 988 (24/7) If you feel like harming yourself or others please call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Room. I am a seasoned Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with extensive experience in human services, healthcare, behavioral health, and community-based settings. My interdisciplinary background, combined with lived experience, has strengthened my ability to provide compassionate, culturally responsive, and client-centered care to diverse populations. Throughout my career, I have worked with individuals experiencing a wide range of psychosocial and behavioral health challenges, including individuals with disabilities, mental health and co-occurring disorders, housing instability, incarceration histories, and those navigating the challenges associated with aging. My clinical experience encompasses working with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing mild to severe mental health concerns. I take a holistic approach to understanding the complex factors that influence thoughts, emotions, behaviors, relationships, and overall mental health. By exploring these contributing factors and utilizing individualized, evidence-based interventions, I strive to help clients increase insight, develop effective coping strategies, reduce symptoms, strengthen resilience, and improve overall well-being.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Depression
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Artist based in Southern California. I studied art therapy at Loyola Marymount University and have been a practicing since 2018. I enjoy facilitating art-making during telehealth sessions when a client is interested in using art as a part of their process. I am excited and hopeful to get to be a part of your journey
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Welcome! Seeking help and support is a huge first step that can be scary and I am honored to be considered to join you along your journey of healing, self-improvement, and working towards achieving your goals. I have worked in mental health for 19 years and have experience working in residential treatment centers, homeless shelters, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, juvi, jails, prisons, ERs, County crisis work, and private practice settings providing individual and group therapy in person and now virtually. I earned my Master's Degree in Marriage, Couple, Family, and Child Counseling at CSUS with my undergraduate degree in Psychology.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+5
Hello, my name is Elena, which means “shining light.” I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing since 2015, when I earned my Master’s in Social Work. Throughout my career, I have worked in a wide range of settings, including hospitals, mental health clinics, domestic violence shelters, foster care, addiction treatment centers, and jails. These diverse experiences have helped me discover what I value most in my work: making a meaningful difference in the lives of the people I serve. Whether I am supporting someone through depression, helping them manage anxiety, processing long-held trauma, or simply offering a safe space to be heard, I find deep fulfillment in walking alongside others on their healing journey. True to the meaning of my name, I strive to be a source of hope and light for those I meet, believing that even small moments of connection can create lasting change.
VirtualAvailable
Open-Minded
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Perinatal Mental Health
+10
Hi, my name is Karin (pronounced Ca-Lin). I am bilingual in Burmese and English and am both a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor. I strive to create a warm, inclusive environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel heard, valued, and respected. My approach is grounded in cultural awareness and appreciation, recognizing and honoring the unique experiences and perspectives each person brings to our work together. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious in social settings, or experiencing persistent sadness? Are you finding it difficult to balance your relationships, work, and overall well-being? Do you struggle to show yourself the same kindness you offer others? I support individuals who are experiencing anxiety and depression. Together, we will explore what may not be working and identify ways to help you regain a sense of balance. My approach integrates a whole-person perspective with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), focusing on the connection between mind, body, and spirit.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
ADHD
Anxiety
+7
Hi there, I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California. Over the past decade, I have been helping others explore and process current and past challenging thoughts, emotions, and experiences to help them live a more fulfilling life. I believe that you have what you need inside of you to not just survive but thrive and my job is to help you reconnect with it. I believe that regardless of where you are in life or what you have been through, you can be whole, you can live, you can have safe, healthy, happy, stable relationships with others and yourself. Therapy is not easy, finding and protecting your peace takes work. If you are ready to take that next step, I will happily join you and walk along side you. You are not in this alone, and I will be rooting for you!
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Direct
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
+6
I believe psychotherapy is a tool to understand oneself and grow as an individual, It can also be used to form a relationship where safety allows a person to share their innermost thoughts and feelings and then work towards symptom alleviation and improving self-concept, social and family relationships, and find personal contentment and fulfillment in their lives. I have been in the psychotherapy field for over 45 years and love working with people of all ages, sexual preferences, racial and ethnic groups, and mental health problems presented. My approach is kind, compassionate, and considerate of people's wishes, needs, and preferences.
Available
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

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+5
Hello and welcome, My name is Mayra, and I am currently accepting new clients for therapy. I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker, fluent in English and Spanish, with over 17 years of experience in the mental health field. I provide a supportive, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where you can safely explore your thoughts, emotions, and life challenges. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, communication struggles, divorce, life transitions, stress, and grief. Together, we will identify patterns, build effective coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change at a pace that feels right for you. I am passionate about supporting individuals as they navigate life’s challenges and discover strategies that promote healing, resilience, and emotional well-being. My approach is warm, collaborative, and client-centered. I strive to create a space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with individuals from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. I deeply value each person’s unique story and tailor therapy to meet your specific needs, strengths, and goals. Beginning therapy can feel overwhelming or intimidating, but you do not have to face it alone. Taking the first step is often the hardest, yet it can also be the start of meaningful transformation. I look forward to the opportunity to support you on your journey toward healing and growth. — Mayra
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+10
Hi, my name is Ariane and I am a California-based LCSW. Outside of therapy, I love being active to stay sane including running and hiking, as well as crocheting when I'm inside! I've always got a a novel I'm working my way through as well. I earned my Masters at the University of Illinois but returned to my home-state to further my career. I've been licensed for 4 years, but have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years. I provide a safe space for clients to work through their struggles without judgement and guiding clients toward their goals. I meet clients where they are at and work together while providing an outside perspective and psycho-education as needed.
VirtualAvailable
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.