Blue Shield Therapists in California

Accessing mental health services with Blue Shield can simplify the path to quality, affordable care. With 48 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: 7/3/2025

Robert Garza

Robert Garza, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
23 years of experience
Virtual
California State University Stanislaus of Social Work, Master's in Social Work License LCSW# 76744 23 Years of experience Hello! My name is Robert Garza, LCSW Bi-lingual. I have over 18 years of experience working with clients ranging from early childhood, adolescence, children/families, adults, and end-of-life care. I have always viewed my professional career to learn as much as possible and be able to impact the largest number of people in need of support, counseling, therapy, and a safe space. I have worked in educational settings, healthcare settings, and clinical settings. I was born in Corcoran and raised in Central California. I currently reside in Rocklin CA, and enjoy horseshoe pitching, long walks, the ocean, and family and friends. My historical area of focus ranges from challenges in school to overcoming childhood traumas, depression, anxiety, social isolation, and conflict within family units. These are common things that we all face as we grow and evolve into our adult selves.

Jessica Lazos

(she/her)

Jessica Lazos, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, I'm Jess! Real change takes time, practice and patience. I am honored to have the opportunity to accompany you on your journey. I am Bilingual in English and Spanish (Hablo español). I have been privileged to work with adults, teens, families, and couples struggling with a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, communication, trauma etc. I am experienced in a number of evidence based techniques including CBT, DBT, Person-Centered therapy, and I will actively work with you to find the best approach to meet your individual needs. This open and flexible approach allows you to share and comfortably express and explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors in a warm, safe and inviting space. I hold a unique understanding of the struggles that accompany physical disabilities. I understand how hard reaching out and asking for help can be, and I am so proud of you for taking this first step towards peace and healing! Life is easier with support! Together we can discuss how therapy could benefit you and/or your family.

Karen Weaver

(she/her)

Karen Weaver, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm Karen Weaver. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and have been practicing for over 10 years. Life can be challenging at times and we can all benefit from some support. My focus in working together is to assist you in becoming your best self. That could be anything from managing anxiety and stress better, to overcoming past challenges or getting along better with family or friends.

Elena De Salvo

Elena De Salvo, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, I'm Elena! Hi! I'm here to help you have the life you want, as sometimes life becomes challenging, and adjusting to life changes isn't always easy. I am glad that you prioritize your needs by coming here for help. I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I began therapy practice during my MA Program at JFKU in CA. For over 10 years, I've worked in various settings, including not-for-profit mental health agencies and private practice. I believe that treatment is a collaborative approach. I look forward to taking the journey of healing with you. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back.

Steven Frank

Steven Frank, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
30 years of experience
Virtual
I’m Steven Frank. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT), licensed in California and living in Seattle, Washington. The way the law works is that if I have a California license, I can live outside of California, but can only work with California residents. For that reason, all my work is perforyemed online through telehealth. I see primarily adults and seniors in my practice and while I work mostly withindividuals, I will also see couples when needed. I’ve been licensed since 1983 but actually began to “grow” a private practice beginning in 1990. While most of my experience has been with clients dealing with depression and anxiety, over the last 4-5 years I’ve been more focused on the treatment for symptoms of trauma and abuse. I’ve been trained in EMDR (a specific treatment for trauma), and will use that method as needed, when appropriate, and with your understanding of the process, and consent. By the way, my first job experience (before beginning my schooling for the MFT license), was in the California State Hospital system as a psychiatric technician. I was a member of a hospital inpatient treatment team that treated people with severe mental disorders. This was excellent training for working with clients who are seeking help, but on an outpatient basis.

Ritsa Fistes

(she/her)

Ritsa Fistes, LP - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
Virtual
Welcome to Therapy. I am so excited to get to know you. This is the first step to your mental healing. I am experienced and have been providing mental and emotional support. I enjoy working with teenagers, young adults, adults, couples, women and men. I have experience with a variety of issues ranging from anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, family issues and many more. I make a connection with my client that encourages them to work on themselves and becoming confident and better in coping with life issues that are in the past, present or things that are going to happen in the future. I would enjoy talking to you and seeing if we are a good match to start the journey of mental health freedom and peace.

Sally Del Vecchio

(she/her)

Sally Del Vecchio, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Sally Del Vecchio I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of CA and NV. I have a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Science in Counseling/Marriage, Family, And Child Therapy. I am an ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP), Domestic Violence Counselor, Prevention Early Intervention Specialist, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapist, which allows me to understand your current situation more in-depth.

Laura Olson

(she/her)

Laura Olson, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Board Certified Registered Art Therapist. I received my Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Notre Dame de Namur University. Classes in the MFT program also met the requirements for the American Art therapy Association for art therapy. I am also a Christian and provide therapy from that perspective for those who want their faith to be a part of the therapy process. I believe our spiritual well-being and relationship with God can have a significant influence on all other areas of our lives including mental health. I have a holistic approach to therapy looking at how mental, physical, and spiritual health impact each other in both positive and negative ways. I have experience in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) supporting clients in gaining a healthier relationship with their thoughts and feelings. I have worked extensively with clients in coping with depression, stress and anxiety, as well as in processing grief, loss, and life transitions. I am passionate about making mental health services more readily available to those who need it and normalizing the need for them.

Carol Crabson

(she/her)

Carol Crabson, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
32 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in the State of California. I graduated with my Masters Degree in Social Worker from UCLA and have been practicing for over 20 years. I began my career working with seniors experiencing early symptoms of dementia as well as providing their family with resources and support during this challenging time. Events happened that altered my career resulting in me finding that my life's passion is to help people recover from childhood and/or current trauma so they can experience a life filled with a sense of peace and joy.

Tina Cruz

Tina Cruz, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

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.

Ruya Urso

(she/her)

Ruya Urso, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
14 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist offering supportive, strength-based therapy to adults and families. I have a B.A. in Psychology from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia and an M.A. in Counseling with Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Webster University in Irvine, California. Throughout my carrier, I have worked with clients with a variety of issues and from all socio-economic, cultural and religious backgrounds. My experience in College Hospital, a mental health facility, trained me to understand how different mental health issues can be compounded by trauma and substance abuse, as well as preparing me for dealing with clients with variety of mental health problems. I have extensive experience with children, adolescents and adults who had experienced different traumas. Among my areas of experience are anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, women's issues, adolescents' issues and family problems. I utilize many different treatment modalities and treatment techniques depending on the client's needs.

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!

Ron Goode

(he/him)

Ron Goode, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
13 years of experience
Virtual
Congratulations for taking the step to seek counseling. The world we live in is increasingly complex, and we can find ourselves feeling disconnected, stressed, and uncertain about what direction to take. How do we identify solutions for our life’s challenges? How do we let go of stress and sleep at night? As a therapist, I have counseled with individuals and families for over ten years and have found that problem-solving does not have to be stressful, and that we can work through our toughest issues. It is common to believe that people in our relationships, or circumstances in our lives cause us to feel the way we do. But it is our thinking, and the way we relate to people and circumstances, that create our feelings and emotions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps us observe what we are feeling and identify the thoughts that create our feelings. With increased self-awareness, we determine which of our thoughts and perceptions are distorted and unhelpful. As our thinking becomes more realistic, we feel better. There are several therapy methods that are effective in creating positive change, including Narrative Therapy, Goal Setting, Visioning for Personal Growth, and Mindfulness to promote focus and attention. Let’s engage in a conversation to explore your individual needs, and how best to meet them.

Adriana Hampton

(she/her)

Adriana Hampton, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
25 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). I try to infuse an empowerment perspective into the relationship-focused approach to produce effective counseling for individuals, couples, families, children and parents and youth and adults with disabilities. I aspire to assist you in channeling your energy towards a thriving and fulfilling life. I am dually licensed in California and Texas.

John Paul Cabrera

(he/him)

John Paul Cabrera, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hello. My name is John Paul and I have been a therapist for approximately sevenyears. I am a Latino male and I grew up in Los Angeles County. I believe in the power of therapy. I was once sad, angry and resentful as a young man and therapy was for me, a life chaning experience. I enjoy helping others in their journies to living happier and healthier lives.

Anthony Williams

(he/him)

Anthony Williams, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
17 years of experience
Virtual
I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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!

Daniel Yim

Daniel Yim, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations in different community settings. I have adapted different approaches in my clinical work to fit with the populations that I serve. As a therapist, I work to help make clients feel grounded and supported in our session appointments. I strive for authenticity when working with others. I try to help clients value honesty within themselves and in others. I hope to be able to facilitate growth and change in our time together.

Yang Jiang

(she/her)

Yang Jiang, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
**ACCEPTING ADULTS (18+) ONLY** Hi, I'm Yang. And I'm here to help you heal from self-abandonment and emotional dysregulation. Self-abandonment occurs when we struggle to stand up for our needs and live by our authentic values; often, we don't even know what they are. Those who struggle with self-abandonment don't feel like they know who they really are, and what they want, and often feel directionless and ungrounded. We feel small, afraid, anxious, aggressive and dependent on others. Emotional dysregulation occurs when we don't understand our emotions and how to manage them. They control us, instead of the other way around. We behave in ways we wish we didn't, and we build up shame around those behaviors as if they are who we are. We cannot separate our emotions from who we are. These issues often lie at the heart of different mental health struggles, such as depression, anxiety, as well as many relationship challenges. The good news is that resolving these, therefore, can potentially lead to ripple effects of change in your life.

Dr. Sepida Sazgar

Dr. Sepida Sazgar, LP - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
Virtual
If you are on this page, you are probably dealing with challenges that are keeping you from feeling content, balanced and in control. Maybe you are faced with a difficult situation, an unexpected event in your life, or perhaps you have been struggling with anxiety and depression for years. I understand that starting therapy can be a daunting decision. It takes courage to take the first step and seek help. Together, we can identify what is keeping you from feeling confident, competent, and in charge of your life, and help you take steps toward being the best version of yourself.

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!

Anastasia Rivera, MSW

Anastasia Rivera, MSW, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Are you feeling defeated, overwhelmed, hopeless or simply “not yourself” anymore? My name is Anastasia and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I specialize in working with adults and teenagers suffering from symptoms related to mental health challenges. I have the experience and competence to help individuals and families cope with relationship problems, feelings related to depression, challenges from social anxiety and trauma, coping with anger, grief and loss, and life transitions. I believe that therapy should be a safe space for you to ventilate without judgment. In therapy, you should be challenged to grow your skills and strengths so that you can return to the person you once were before mental health challenges were present. My specialized modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered therapy, psychodynamic therapy and strengths-based approaches. My goal is to support you while challenging you at a comfortable pace to see positive change in your life. * Please note I do not provide letters for service animals or special accommodations. Please feel free to reach out with any questions at 661-487-1779

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.

Tana Szoyka

(she/her)

Tana Szoyka, LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Tana, and I am a licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California. I hold a master's degree from the University of Redlands and have over five years of experience working with indigenous communities and people of color. While my education and training equip me as a competent therapist, I believe that the true cornerstone of effective therapy is the value I place on the therapeutic relationship. It is this focus that fosters change and healing for those I have the privilege to support.

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 Mood Disorders?

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, Mood Disorders, 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.