Blue Shield Therapists in California

Accessing mental health services with Blue Shield can simplify the path to quality, affordable care. With 56 verified therapists in California who accept Blue Shield, you can choose from therapeutic approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness-based therapy to help with issues such as stress, anxiety, or personal growth. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is accepting new clients and has appointments available soon, making it easy to find in-network support that aligns with your Blue Shield coverage.

Availability updated: 7/4/2025

Renee de Luca

(she/her)

Renee de Luca, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in California. I obtained my master's degree in social work from Virginia Commonwealth University. I've been practicing for more than 20 years. I have a lot of experience working with adults with anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. My clients are very motivated to improve and need support and understanding to get to where they want to be and to live a fuller life.

Stephen Garrett

(he/him)

Stephen Garrett, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
25 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I have over 20 years experience. That experience includes private practice, community based, and hospital settings. This experience also includes leadership roles such as Supervisor, Manager, Executive Leader. I assist individual's facing social-emotional challenges that impact their daily functioning, helping them develop and fine tune their life skills to obtain a greater level of life-satisfaction.

W. Eric Griffith

(he/him)

W. Eric Griffith, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
I am an experienced Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) with a strong focus on helping high school aged and older individuals navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, and trauma/PTSD. With eight years of practice, I provide compassionate and evidence-based therapy to create a safe space for clients to explore their concerns and foster healing and growth to become the best versions of themselves.

Tina Cruz

Tina Cruz, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello. Are you experiencing low energy, low motivation, trouble sleeping, irritability, poor concertation? or feeling sad, worried, anxious or stressed about your negative/intrusive thoughts? The truth is, that everyone experiences Anxiety or Depression at some point in their life, but these conditions are treatable and you do not have to go through them alone. I am here to help. My name is Tina. I am a Latina, a mother and a therapist with 20 years of experience treating children and adults with Anxiety and/or Depression. I also specialize in Maternal Mental Health and/or any other issue related to pregnancy and motherhood. I would love to help you find calmness, balance and a more positive approach to coping with life stressors that often create Anxiety and/or Depression.

Jonnetta Appianing

(she/her)

Jonnetta Appianing, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am Jonnetta Appianing, Licensed Marriage & Child Family Therapist of 5 years of post graduate experience. Being a Licensed Mental Health Therapist has given me the opportunity to work in a variety of different roles, settings, and diagnosis from all cultures facing many of life stressors including, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, trauma, PTSD, OCD, substance abuse, interpersonal relationship, addictions and eating disorders. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with children, teens adults and couples. Throughout my years, I gained experience supporting and empowering people with different challenges and it has been very rewarding.

Rachel Mehia

Rachel Mehia, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), and I have worked with clients with a wide variety of concerns including schizophrenia, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, substance use, relationship problems, and trauma (physical, emotional, sexual). I also have extensive experience working with people involved in the criminal justice system. Reaching out for support is the start of achieving your goals and enjoying a more fulfilled life. I recognize that starting therapy can be a scary process and opening up to someone you don't know can be uncomfortable. This process will open the door for therapeutic healing and success in achieving your treatment goals. I look forward to working with you!

Monica Smith

(she/her)

Monica Smith, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Monica Smith, and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California, providing telehealth services to adults statewide. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma using evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to name a few. I help clients build awareness, develop coping skills, and improve their overall emotional well-being.

Dr Diari Banigo

(NA)

Dr Diari Banigo, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, thanks for visiting my page. I am Dr. Banigo, and I love to collaborate with patients and render needed assistance. I am a skilled clinician, and I provide clinical supervision to clinicians focused on sharpening their clinical skills. I am an adjunct professor. I encourage patients to actively participate in their care with me and other treatment providers such as primary care physicians, psychiatrists, and others. I do not complete disability forms (Social Security, work excuse, FMLA, Court papers/legal papers, emotional support letters, etc).

Joanna Baez

(she/her)

Joanna Baez, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
12 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Joanna Baez. I am a LMFT and a bilingual licensed Mental Health Professional with 12 years of experience working as a Facilitator and Psychotherapist in California, specializing in affordable online therapy. I have worked with clients to help them with a large range of concerns including anxiety, depression, anger issues, substance abuse/addiction, relationship issues, parenting problems, and domestic violence. I have experience working with individuals in Federal and State probation as well as parents CPS cases. I have also worked at a State prison and MHTU Crisis Center. My empathetic, supportive, and nonjudgmental counseling style has allowed me to successfully help many clients. I believe that respect, and empathy are the main elements in a solid foundation for a good therapy session. I treat everyone with sensitivity and compassion, creating a safe zone to help them work through any issues. Multiple factors come into play when the mental health provider chooses a modality for the client, such as the age and preferences of the client and their available supports. My approach combines CBT, Attachment-Based Theory, Humanistic approach, Mindfulness Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Client-Centered approach, among others. Your dialogue and treatment plan are completely tailored to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step towards a change to seek a more fulfilling and happier life takes a lot of courage. If you are ready to take that step, you can be sure that I will be there to support and empower you!

Janet Johnson

(she/her)

Janet Johnson, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
12 years of experience
Virtual
I have been a licensed marriage family therapist for over a decade and a licensed professional clinical counselor for almost 10 years. I work with clients in life transitions and collaborate with them in teaching healthy coping skills and creating a treatment plan to assist them in reaching their goals. My life experience as mother, grandmother, pastor's/chaplin's wife has shaped me into a person that has lived many life transitions working with people from all walks of life.

Hector Martinez

(he/him)

Hector Martinez, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello there! I'm an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) residing in sunny California. My educational journey led me to earn my MSW from California State University, Northridge, and I've dedicated the past ten years to the field of mental health. My passion lies in assisting young adults grappling with career stress and burnout to unlock their full potential and thrive in their endeavors.

Dr. Aline Smith

(she/her)

Dr. Aline Smith, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
37 years of experience
Virtual
Hello I have 37-years of clinical experience including, trauma-informed therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Anger Management, Domestic Violence Intervention ,victims of sex and child abuse. Other areas of expertise include performing Immigration Evaluations, Marriage Annulments and evaluations for applicants for seminary studies. I am compassionate and empathetic. I am fluent in both English and Spanish.

Michelle Ulloa

Michelle Ulloa, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome, my name is Michelle Ulloa. Are you missing joy and the drive in your life? Feeling disconnected with yourself, family, friends your partner and society? I would like to help so, let's do this together by making a positive impact in the areas affecting the progress you want. I will empower, inspirit and help create the change you are needing but it's not easy and it will required you to do less of what is not working and more of what does work (we will explore what that is for you in session). Mixing conversations & interactive activities alongside with empathy and respect we can create change. I will meet you where you are and push just enough each time you are ready in reaching your goals in therapy.

Keesha Sledge

Keesha Sledge, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in the states of Alabama, California, Virginia, Texas, Tennessee, Florida , Hawaii, New Mexico, Arkansas, and Georgia. She has over 10 years of experience working with adults, children and couples seeking help with depression, relationship issues, anxiety and major life stressors. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Social Work from The University of Alabama at Birmingham and received her Master of Science in Social Work from The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Al. I utilizes relational, collaborative, strength based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, solution focused and emotionally focused approaches to therapy always maintaining the creativity, flexibility and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual and couple. I want to establish a caring relationships with clients to assist in building on your strengths and better collaborate with you towards meeting your goals and living the meaningful life you value and desire.

Matthew Ortega

Matthew Ortega, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
14 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am Matthew Ortega! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the beautiful, sunny state of California with nearly 15 years of experience working with clients in the community. Are you longing for more right now? Is ADHD executive dysfunction ruling your day? Are you needing help coping with a new diagnosis of Bipolar disorder or OCD? Or are you looking for a safe place to discuss topics with your spouse, validate your feelings and restore your relationship to its former glory? I help empower individuals and couples of all ages and relationship statuses to overcome their obstacles and live a happy and fulfilling life. I use an educational and interactive approach to elevate and validate you. My approach offers cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, dialectical behavioral, solution-focused, harm reduction, and trauma-informed perspectives as needed for YOUR unique situation. Together we dig deep to bring forth your most rewarding and fulfilling life. I take pride in leaving the stigmatizing labels at the door, here you are welcomed as you are! I believe it takes great strength and courage to take the first step in connecting with a therapist. My goal is to make you comfortable and empowered throughout the entire experience. If you’re ready to make the commitment and put in the honest effort to dig deep and blossom, then I am here to support you! I look forward to working with you and building this relationship!

Dr. Dena Galinato

Dr. Dena Galinato, LP - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
7 years of experience
Virtual
I have extensive experience in working with a diverse population of individuals, including those struggling with substance abuse, dual diagnoses, codependency, trauma, and other mental health issues. I consider myself to be an assertive and direct psychologist who prioritizes effective communication, healthy boundaries, and self-care. My ultimate goal is to help people gain the insight and coping skills necessary to live meaningful lives filled with a positive sense of self and healthy relationships. I consider myself to be a culturally sensitive psychologist who treats each client as a unique individual. I am an action-oriented psychologist that listens with empathy while helping the client gain insight into patterns of thoughts and behaviors that can be used to make healthy and meaningful changes in their lives. If you are an individual who is motivated for positive change and self-growth, then I encourage you to reach out to me, as I would be honored to be a part of your journey. I believe that therapy is a collaborative approach in which the end goal is always in your best interest.

Qiana Marie Bush

Qiana Marie Bush, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
18 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, I'm Qiana Marie. I am here to assist you in becoming your most capable, confident, skillful self. The therapy process often involves healing, addressing unresolved issues and learning new skills that will help you navigate through life's uncertainties and challenges. My focus is to help you meet your life and treatment goals. I have had the privilege of working with diverse communities and am conscious of the need for compassionate care and the importance of valuing experiences of all groups in order to truly connect. I provide counseling and resources that focus on collaborative care to support each person's distinctive needs, experiences, and strengths. I have vast experience working with clients through the process of multiple types of relationship issues, phases of life changes, depression, anxiety, trauma, sleep problems, chronic medical conditions, pain, family matters, bereavement/grief/loss. I am empathetic, compassionate, personable and practice a judge free, culturally informed framework that is eclectic, gentle, nurturing and honest.

Dr. Ron Gellis

Dr. Ron Gellis, LP - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
40 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Christian Clinical, Forensic and Sports Neuropsychologist. Like many folks who get into the mental health field, I had certain mental health challenges. My family of origin was burdened with addiction and mental health. I currently have 38 years of sobriety and am intimately familiar with 12 Step, Christ-centered and Mindfulness aspects of recovery. I specialize in the treatment of Trauma and Addiction with family systems and attachment orientation. As a trained child psychologist I also place particular emphasis on developmental aspects of trauma. As a former Navy psychologist with many years working with veterans and first responders, I am very familiar with those cultures. I played college soccer, run 20 marathons, taught scuba as well as being an award winning underwater photographer and competed at the CrossFit World Games for 3 years. I am married, have a son (retired Navy) and a daughter in heaven.

Diana Abrams

(she/her)

Diana Abrams, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
20 years of experience
Virtual
My ideal client is someone who needs help reaching their highest potential and decrease emotional suffering. They should be ready and willing to begin receiving guidance on how to reach their peak. I believe in self-determination and that individuals can find solutions with the right support. I offer a person centered approach that relies on the client's self-determination. I am experienced working those with dual diagnosis, mood disorders, and anxiety compassionately to help them manage symptoms. Please feel free to reach out to me if you have more questions. I am always willing to answer questions to make sure my services are a good fit.

Brian Kaufman

(he/him)

Brian Kaufman, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello. My name is Brian Kaufman. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I am licensed in California with over 20 years of professional experience. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My commitment to you is to be by your side every step of the way. I believe there is goodness inside of everyone and I will be sure to point out to you where that goodness is inside of you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Andrew Young

Andrew Young, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
4 years of experience
Virtual
Life is hard! Sometimes you just need someone to talk to. I hope that as we work together we can find a way to get through whatever it is that you may be experiencing. I work with and have helped a variety of individuals, couples and families. Whatever it is that you are going through feel free to reach out.

Felicia Burnett-Lopez

Felicia Burnett-Lopez, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Felicia Burnett-Lopez, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working in the mental health field for over ten years. I earned my Bachelors’ Degree in Psychology and earned my Masters’ Degree in Social Work. My education and experience include human behavior; environmental and biological psychology, substance abuse and addiction; understanding and working in mental health, with people with mental illnesses, within all populations.

Kat Andrade

Kat Andrade, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
28 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings, my name is Dr. Katherine Andrade, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have 28 years of experience working in Medical, Health, Mental Health, and Substance Use. I have worked as a school, mental health, medical, and military social worker. I have a Master's and Doctorate degrees in Social Work. I specialize in working with adults/seniors with mental health and substance use challenges as well as family issues, stress, adjusting to medical challenges, and military/veteran issues.

Terry Porter

Terry Porter, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
17 years of experience
Virtual
I have been in private practice since 2012. I mostly see clients suffering from depression and anxiety, but I am open to other disorders. My goal from the start is to EMPOWER my clients. I only work with ages 15 to 65 years old. I work from a very practical base and help clients either change their circumstances or adjust to it. My background is in forensics as I have worked with inmates and people with criminal cases, judges, attorneys and probation officers for over 14 years. My style is nondirective in therapy. I let the client lead me as they are experts on themselves.

Sheilly (pronounced Shelly) Arora

Sheilly (pronounced Shelly) Arora, LP - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
18 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Sheilly Arora, and I am a practicing psychologist for almost 20 years. I love what I do and find it a privilege to be of help to others. I am fluent in several Evidence Based treatments including and not limited to treatments for depression, anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia and PTSD. While originally from the East coast, I did both my internship and post-doctoral training in California. I have been here ever since and feel lucky to be able to call California my home.

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 Blue Shield?

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