Av Med Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts AvMed insurance can make accessing mental health care easier and more affordable. With 239 verified therapists in California who accept AvMed insurance, you can filter by therapeutic approaches such as interpersonal therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy, targeting areas like stress management, depression, or trauma to find a provider who aligns with your needs. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist is currently welcoming new clients and has availability within the next 30 days, ensuring you receive quality care within your AvMed insurance plan.

Availability updated: 7/12/2025

Daniel Hernandez, Sr.

Daniel Hernandez, Sr., LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
27 years of experience
Virtual
Mr. Daniel Hernandez, LCSW-S has experienced enormous success helping his clients in his 36-year career in the human services field... 27 as a clinician. He has seen tens of thousands of clients in practice. He is a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional (CIMHP), which allows him to discuss the impact of dietary routines as it relates to one's mental health. He also has extensive experience as a Clinical Trauma & Anxiety Professional. Mr. Hernandez specializes in inspiring empowerment within people who have difficulties with trauma, grief & loss, and emotional burnout to move forward with the rest of their lives. He also specializes in helping people to develop anger management mastery skills. Mr. Hernandez often uses a mental-spiritual empowerment approach to help his clients develop the necessary skill of inner healing. Mr. Hernandez is a licensed clinical social worker-supervisor in Texas and has an LCSW in California, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, and is authorized to conduct teletherapy in Florida. Mr. Hernandez completed his professional training as a master social worker from Our Lady of the Lake University in 1998 and his bachelor’s was earned from St. Mary’s University in social studies in 1988, both schools are located in San Antonio, Texas. Mr. Hernandez has been married 30 years and has two adult children. He loves traveling for the enjoyment of nature and culture with his family and friends. He also loves spending time with people he meets and learns from everybody.

Emmanuel Reyes

Emmanuel Reyes, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
9 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), licensed in California. I received my Masters in MFT from California State University Long Beach. I have been working in the field for almost 10 years. I have worked with a wide variety of clients from infants to older adults. I have experiences working with court mandated individuals, children and adults in the non-profit community mental health sector and with individuals who sought therapy out for themselves. I provide a safe space for my clients to talk openly about topics they choose and I collaborate with them in working towards the goals they set out for themselves. I promote an environment of honest communication and trust for my clients so they can feel understood and accepted.

Lamont Hernandez

Lamont Hernandez, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
13 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist for the past 13 years. I graduated from the California Institute of Integral Studies in expressive arts therapy. I also have lived in a Zen Buddhist temple to do residential practice for five years. My goal is to help people feel better as soon as possible. Usually by the time a person enters therapy they have been under stress that has been building for a while. I help people identify and clarify what their goals are and present interventions that I have supported people using that help them feel better.

Deserae Wenk

Deserae Wenk, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Deserae, and welcome to my profile! As a licensed clinical social worker, I am passionate about supporting individuals in identifying their own path toward their mental health goals. With a Master's degree in Social Work with an Emphasis on Hispanic Culture from Our Lady of the Lake University, I bring a diverse background and skill set to my therapy practice.

Emmanuel Akuamoah

(he/him)

Emmanuel Akuamoah, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 22 years of experience in psychotherapy. I hold a Master's degree in Social Work and dual MBAs in Finance and Cybersecurity. Based in California, my practice has been enriched by my extensive travels and a deep appreciation for nature and hiking. I have had the privilege of working with a diverse population, providing tailored psychotherapy to meet a wide range of mental health needs. My approach is informed by a blend of professional expertise and personal insights, aiming to offer compassionate, effective care to each of my clients.

DJ Griffith

(they/them)

DJ Griffith, LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in California. I have a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision and have been practicing for over a decade. I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults, trauma survivors, and individuals navigating complex mental health treatments. My approach blends warmth, evidence-based practices like DBT, CBT, and ERP, and a strong belief in the power of self-compassion and curiosity.

Patricia Bitar

Patricia Bitar, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I’m Patricia Samantha Bitar, a holistic therapist devoted to helping you reconnect with your emotional truth, inner wisdom, and personal peace. With a warm, grounded approach, I create nurturing spaces where healing becomes possible through insight, empathy, and clarity. I specialize in supporting people navigate burnout and emotional overwhelm. I combine practical tools with deep presence, offering more than just talk therapy. My work integrates trauma-informed care, somatic therapy, CBT/DBT, mindfulness, and energy healing –helping you not just cope—but thrive. Whether you're working through grief, identity shifts, relationship wounds, or simply seeking a softer way of living—I’m here to walk beside you with empathy, insight, and care.

Ulysees Cantero (UC)

(he/him)

Ulysees Cantero (UC), LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Ulysees, or simply "UC"! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in CA, and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in TX. I am currently based in TX, and work with all clients via telehealth. I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma to name a few. I tend to be solution focused and will utilize a combination of approaches to work with you while trying to resolve various situations. Life experiences and my desire to help others is a primary factor behind becoming a therapist. I am registered with the CA Board of Behavioral Science (CA BBS) and Texas Behavioral Health Executive Counsel (TBHEC).

Orin Conant

(he/him)

Orin Conant, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
I am a seasoned and dedicated therapist, holding a license as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and I am based in California. With 13 years of experience in this field, my practice is driven by a profound commitment to assisting individuals in their journey toward self-discovery and personal growth. My therapeutic approach centers around meeting my clients right where they are in their lives, offering them a safe and non-judgmental space to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I am deeply passionate about nurturing self-understanding, self-compassion, and self-love, guiding individuals to embrace these qualities as they navigate life's challenges. In my practice, I emphasize the importance of moving away from self-criticism and self-blame, recognizing these patterns as hindrances to personal well-being. Instead, I work collaboratively with my clients to foster self-acceptance and self-compassion, empowering them to build healthier relationships with themselves and others. My ultimate goal as a therapist is to help individuals discover their inner strengths, enhance their self-awareness, and develop the tools they need to lead more fulfilling and contented lives. It's a privilege and a passion of mine to assist others on their journey towards greater self-acceptance and emotional well-being.

Jaron Haynes

Jaron Haynes, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
20 years of experience
Virtual
I am Jaron Haynes, an African American/Native American licensed therapist with 20 years of clinical experience which includes working with families, adolescents, the chronically mentally ill, those struggling with substance abuse and addiction, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, domestic violence, and personality disorders. As an expert in Marriage & Family Therapy he brings to the team a wealth of knowledge and vast experience to provide the highest quality of care and patience necessary for even those high conflict parenting clients. Jaron is a licensed professional that exhibits compassion and empathy. His passion to help those in need and his desire to give back to the community that helped shape him has led him to work with clients from diverse populations and cultural backgrounds.

Samantha Stermon

(she/her)

Samantha Stermon, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Do you wonder if your life could feel better than it currently does? I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, including postpartum anxiety and depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, and other life challenges. In this therapeutic process, we work together to help bring you closer to what truly matters to you and help create change and healing in your life. I use evidence-based techniques, which includes EMDR along with a variety of other treatment modalities. I am EMDR Trained and currently working toward EMDR certification as well. Therapy can help you create a sense of safety and nurturing within, whether you’ve lost that feeling along the way or never had it to begin with. I strongly believe in the brain’s tendency towards resilience and its innate ability to heal itself with support. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, open-minded, and respectful environment, and I believe that a collaborative relationship is critical to therapeutic success. Let’s work together to help you find the healing you are needing. Here is my website if you want to read more about what I offer: www.SamanthaStermonTherapy.com

Patrick Fernaiz

Patrick Fernaiz, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed professional in California with extensive experience in the mental health industry. With 5 years of dedicated work and an additional 9 years of complementary experience, I have worked in various settings including the criminal justice system, high-acuity psychiatric units, applied behavioral analysis, geriatrics, substance abuse facilities, and PHP/IOP/RTC levels of care. Thank you for considering me as your therapist.

Michele Moscatelli

(she/her)

Michele Moscatelli, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW) based in California. I have 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, anger management, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Patricia Jones

(she/her)

Patricia Jones, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated with my Master's Degree from Rutgers University. I have experience working with teens, and adult dealing with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, self-esteem, self -harm, ADHD, life changes and other challenges. I specialize in working with teens, women and men who are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, negative self-image and trauma. I work with clients to help them discover their true self. I will meet you where you are in your journey, and will you facilitate the changes you need to reach your fullest potential. If your tired of your emotional rollercoaster consider coming to see me.

Greg Ragle

(he/him)

Greg Ragle, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
3 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am Greg, You are given a safe space to discuss what you may be going through. Are you struggling with anxiety, being authentic, feeling overwhelmed or having relationship issues? Are you in a transitional period in life? Together we can identify protective factors and strengths to build upon. We can use myth, personal narrative, mindfulness and somatic exercises to address mind, body and soul. You may be nervous seeking therapy, but you deserve a guide in your healing journey. Let’s work together to walk the path.

Ryan Silva

(he/him)

Ryan Silva, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in California. I hold a Master's degree from Alliant International University and boast over a decade of professional experience. Throughout my 11 years in practice, I have specialized in providing comprehensive support to adults spanning various age groups, addressing a wide spectrum of mental health conditions. I feel like the impact I have on clients is to help empower clients in defining meaningful and achievable goals that align with their personal growth and well-being, fostering a sense of ownership and motivation throughout their therapeutic journey

Joe F Jones

(he/him)

Joe F Jones, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
20 years of experience
Virtual
Asking for help is one of the most courageous things you can do for yourself. Life can be stressful, and you can feel pulled in many different directions. Being an African American man growing up in Los Angeles, I have faced my share of challenges and obstacles and when stress sets in, I understand that even the smallest pebble can feel like a major Boulder. I come from a traditional family where men and oftentimes women are discouraged from seeking help to deal with life's struggles and stresses. I aim to fill that void and change that narrative. I empower Men, Women and Families to seek to understand their struggles, anxieties and life challenges and to overcome them.

Susanna Franchi

(she/her)

Susanna Franchi, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm Susanna Franchi. I have been working in the mental health field a total for twenty years. I received my Master of Science in Counseling with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University, Northridge. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am very dedicated in doing my best work in sessions with clients to help them improve and lead satisfied lives. It has been rewarding seeing my clients improve and grow which has given me continued motivation to continue my work as a therapist.

Joe Gladden

(he/him)

Joe Gladden, LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
19 years of experience
Virtual
As a seasoned therapist with nearly 20 years of consecutive licensing across multiple states, I specialize in a diverse array of client issues, including men's issues, LGBTQ+ concerns, aging and chronic illness challenges, sexual addiction, trauma and PTSD, anger management, clinical depression, and anxiety. My approach is built on an affirming and caring nature, allowing clients to feel safe and understood in our collaborative work. I utilize various therapeutic modalities, including person-centered therapy, CBT, and ACT, alongside group therapy, to tailor my interventions to each individual’s unique needs. My strong listening and speaking skills facilitate deep connections with clients, empowering them to explore their struggles, find meaning, and ultimately create positive changes in their lives. The impact of my work is reflected in the growth and resilience of my clients, as they navigate their personal journeys toward healing and fulfillment.

Jon Dang

(he/him)

Jon Dang, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) who's been practicing for the past 7 years. I primarily work with adults who may be struggling with a variety of issues: anxiety, depression, work stress/career transitions, ADHD/ADD, anger management, and eating disorders. I have a passion for working with adults dealing with issues related to their relationship with food and/or body image concerns - finding myself serving as a co-chair of the Male Eating Disorder Special Interest Group (SIG) for the Academy for Eating Disorders.

Bonavy Som-Keo

(she/her)

Bonavy Som-Keo, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. I offer therapy sessions online via video on weeknights and Saturday. I received my Master from the National University and have been practicing for 7 years. I help adults struggling with anxiety and depression to learn coping strategies so that they can become the better versions of themselves as well as an ability to regulate their mood.

Tara Zandi

(she/her)

Tara Zandi, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
17 years of experience
Virtual
Meet Tara Zandi, LICSW – a compassionate and highly skilled therapist with over a decade of experience supporting adults, children, and families. Tara holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and an MSW in Clinical Social Work, blending deep academic knowledge with practical expertise. She’s trained in a powerful range of evidence-based approaches, including CBT, DBT, PCIT, EMDR, and even yoga for children—offering a holistic and personalized approach to healing. Whether working through depression, anxiety, or behavioral health challenges, Tara meets her clients with empathy, insight, and culturally sensitive care. Fluent in English and Farsi, Tara creates a welcoming space for diverse communities to feel seen, heard, and supported on their journey toward wellness.

Kayla Rhodes

(she/her)

Kayla Rhodes, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
9 years of experience
Virtual
It never ceases to amaze me just how often I have to try to convince others that they are worthy SIMPLY because they exist. This includes you! I want to know who communicated to you that you are not enough and why you value the opinion of said person(s); these types of harmful beliefs are learned, not innate. Let's unlearn them together. Most of my early clinical work has been with children and adolescents with focus on Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, trauma and various behavioral and emotional issues. I have worked in high-intensity and high-crisis environments from school to hospital settings. I am passionate about working with and creating a safe space for folks who belong to BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. I understand that belonging to a marginalized/oppressed group can result in barriers to achieving and maintaining optimal mental health. I am a cis/het woman doing my best to provide care that is equitable and gender-affirming. I'm always learning and growing as an ally; you will always be safe here. I am also always looking at things through a trauma-informed lens. I'm a busy working parent who understands how hard it can be to do it all. I am currently pursuing a certification in treating perinatal mood and anxiety disorders to be able to better support soon-to-be and new parents; this particular journey is no joke!

Ted Atwood

(he/him)

Ted Atwood, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
I believe in the value of building a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship to tap into your internal strength, self-expertise, and self-expression to promote growth and support healing. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, #126521, in California, and I graduated with a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Expressive Arts Therapy from California Institute of Integral Studies in 2015.

Hilary Matthews

(she/her)

Hilary Matthews, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi my name is Hilary Matthews and I am a therapist specializing in mood disorders, substance use treatment and trauma. People often report fears and sadness as life changes affect them. I beleive that change is something to embrace and I will show you how. In my client centered practice I use Cognitive behavior, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, trauma informed care to assist clients with their challenges.

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 the state. 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 AvMed?

Yes! If you use AvMed you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have AvMed 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 Anger Management?

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. For example, your selected specialty, Anger Management, is filtering therapists in California that work with patients with similar concerns.

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 to expect during your first 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.