Blue Shield Therapists in California

Accessing mental health services with Blue Shield can simplify the path to quality, affordable care. With 36 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: 7/8/2025

Nancy Zayas

Nancy Zayas, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
Virtual
Hey guys! I’m here to help. We all have things we want and need to talk about. I’d be honored to be a part of your exploration and journey. Let our space be a sounding board of ideas and exploration for your feelings and choices today! Having an outside, neutral person for support and as a sounding board has the potential to assist in more ways than you know! Hablo Español (: Estoy para servirles!

Jacqueline Rafter

(she/her)

Jacqueline Rafter, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
I want to work with you if you are between the ages of 25 and 55 and struggle with anxious attachment, people pleasing, setting boundaries, feeling triggered, anger, anxiety, depression, co-dependence, parenting issues, and ADD/ ADHD. These symptoms and attachment style are often related to each other and often related to similar childhood experiences of inconstant or abusive/neglectful caregivers. (ADD and ADHD is not cause by caregivers, however, when it goes undiagnosed in children, there is s strong correlation to symptoms described above)

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.

Tristyn Ingallinera

Tristyn Ingallinera, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
22 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in the Southern California region. I have been in the mental health field for over two decades and have had the honor of working with adolescents, families, parenting individuals, and couples. My passion is helping people work through what is impacting their present to set themselves up for their best future.

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.

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.

Paul Fisher

(he/him)

Paul Fisher, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
35 years of experience
Virtual
As a licensed therapist of more than thirty years, I have the experience and expertise to work with clients on a variety of issues. I provide a safe therapeutic environment that builds trust and openness. Clients who engage in the counseling process discover new energy for life and relationships. This results in positive change and increased self-awareness. I’m actively involved in the sessions, providing guidance, structuring interventions, and setting goals. Positive change happens one step at a time, trusting that life can get better. I also have expertise in anger management/domestic violence treatment.

Margaret Hoyne Brown

(she/her)

Margaret Hoyne Brown, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome to my practice. I'm Margaret Hoyne Brown, LMFT, a seasoned clinician dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive space for your personal growth and healing journey. With a blend of authentic empathy, good humor, and imaginative yet pragmatic approaches, I tailor therapy sessions to suit your unique needs. I specialize in evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Oriented Therapy, which have been proven to deliver optimal clinical results and foster rapid improvement. By integrating a humanistic approach and Adlerian style, I create sessions intending to make you feel supported and empowered to address your concerns. Drawing from my rich life experiences, I work to understand the complexities of life's journey and bring a deep commitment to social awareness and justice to our work together. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, relationships, or other challenges, I'm here to guide you toward greater self-awareness, resilience, and fulfillment. As a lifelong learner and advocate for staying current with the latest therapeutic techniques, I prioritize attending workshops and collaborating with colleagues to ensure I'm equipped with the most effective approaches to therapy. Additionally, staying abreast of the social climate enables me to understand the world you inhabit. Together, we'll navigate your challenges with empathy, insight, and the most relevant tools available.

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.

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.

Suzanne Pugliese

(she/her)

Suzanne Pugliese, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
13 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Suzanne and I have been working in the field of mental health since 2009. I have a passion to support others with personal growth and healing through a variety of mental health interventions. I prefer to evaluate the whole person and their history in order to best create a treatment plan that addresses each client's unique needs. The hope is to create a lasting positive change in their overall well-being and connections with others.

Terese Himes

(she/her)

Terese Himes, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
34 years of experience
Virtual
It takes courage to reach out and make your mental health a priority, that is a strength and you are taking a wonderful first step. I believe everyone has the potential for self-growth and healing at any stage of life. I provide a nurturing and safe space for us to work as a team to identify your therapy goals and it's my priority to meet you where you are at in your journey. I will approach your challenges with support and openness to assist with the process of developing healthy, and useful coping strategies that work for you. My approach is client-centered and compassionate to help you build insight into how to move through the roadblocks and your healing journey. I believe in a client-led and respectful approach where you can experience unconditional acceptance and support as you develop healthy wellness strategies. Thank you for visiting my profile and I look forward to discussing how therapy may be an option for you. Sincerely Terese

Jennifer Adderly

Jennifer Adderly, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California with 15 years of experience. I earned my Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and take an empathetic approach to building strong client relationships, fostering personal growth, and promoting healing. My experience ranges from working with individuals facing severe mental health challenges to those navigating life events for the first time.

Lauren Choi

(she/her)

Lauren Choi, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who offers individuals, adults, geriatric populations in a general private practice setting in Texas & California. My practice offers a place where you can feel heard in a supportive, comfortable, and non-judgmental environment. I focus on adult care including women’s issues, career/educational issues, interpersonal communication, self-esteem, anger management, stress management, relationship issues, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. I like to do therapy in an “eclectic” manner, drawing on cognitive-behavioral, narrative, spirituality, solution-focused, and others.

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.

Julie Scurry

(she/her)

Julie Scurry, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California with 20 years of experience in the field. After earning my Master’s from New York University, I’ve dedicated my career to supporting young adults and teens who face challenges in peer relationships, anxiety, and confidence. Over the years, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the unique struggles this age group faces and have had the privilege of guiding many individuals toward becoming their most empowered, authentic selves. My approach combines compassion, evidence-based strategies, and a strong belief in each person’s ability to grow and thrive.

Gaia Akopian

Gaia Akopian, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I help individuals to navigate the complexities of modern life, balancing responsibilities at work and home. I work with youth and adults, facing challenges related to intimacy, communication, or personal fulfillment. My ideal client can also be a parent, juggling the demands of raising children while maintaining their own well-being. Together we can explore a deeper understanding of self and emotions, desires to develop healthier coping mechanisms, build resilience, and enhance your self-esteem.

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.

Ashley Reed

(she/her)

Ashley Reed, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, thank you for coming to my web page, and I want to help you with whatever journey comes our way. I have 8 years of experience, with combined internship and as an LMFT in dealing with anxiety, depression and trauma. Being married, I believe that I can relate when married couples have struggles and they need my help with a tune-up or their restart. I empower clients to use different ways of thinking to whatever life situations come your way, by giving many different ways to solve problems, and improve communication and strive for assertiveness and self-confidence, and let go of past hurts. I strive to listen to clients at their lowest lows and highest highs and bring Christian views and values whenever possible.

Ashley Perkins

Ashley Perkins, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Ashley Perkins, LCSW and I have an intensive background working and serving my community. My educational background is BA Sociology from UC Riverside and MSW from Columbia University. I have worked closely in community activism, community organizing, women's health, mental health, and herbalism. I am a public speaker, community event planner and organizer, radio/podcast personality, tv personality, and herbalist. Empowerment is my approach to every avenue that I interact with, and therefore I believe that everyone can achieve growth if that is what they truly wish to achieve and work towards. I have lived and worked in different areas of the United States and have also lived abroad while working within the field of herbalism.

Elizabeth Anaya-Olmedo

(she/her)

Elizabeth Anaya-Olmedo, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
I'm Elizabeth, a bilingual licensed clinical social worker with a master's degree from Indiana University. My goal is to touch, move and inspire all those I come in contact with. I am passionate about empowering people in all aspects of life. I help people embrace their authentic self, develop compassion towards self and others, and live a meaningful life through transformation and healing.

Ava Oleson

(she/her)

Ava Oleson, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
20 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my profile. I hold a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Fuller Seminary’s Graduate School of Psychology and a Doctorate in Leadership from Evangel University. Since 1994, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside women as they navigate life’s challenges and transitions. Specializing in women’s issues has been a deeply meaningful focus of my work, and I consider it an honor to be entrusted with my clients’ stories. Rooted in my Christian faith, my approach is grounded in both compassion and clinical excellence. I strive to provide care that is evidence-based, ethical, spiritually sensitive, and tailored to the unique needs of each client. In addition to my private practice, I serve as a university professor, where I have the joy of teaching, training, and supervising graduate students on their path to becoming licensed therapists.

Tania Beltran

(she/her)

Tania Beltran, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am a License marriage and family therapist I provides services to children, adolescents, adults, families, and groups. I have been helping individuals with anxiety, social difficulties, Anger management, Depression, trauma and grief. I have experience in facilitating violence prevention programs and anger management groups. I utilizes a variety of techniques and skills drawn from recognized therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, DBT, Psychoeducation, Play Therapy, behavior modification, mindfulness and relaxation.

Twana Curry

(she/her)

Twana Curry, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
28 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! My name is Twana Curry. I am an LCSW in multiple states with over 20+ years experience. I'm glad you are here, this is the first step in a journey. Do you ever feel like something is missing. Are you looking to go deeper in your journey, wanting to find the calm and balance with your past, present and future? This is when we seek guidance, we may be experiencing chronic stress, pain, depression, anxiety, grief, or as of late feeling like this world is not something we recognize any longer. I believe we feel our best when we have balance in all aspects of our lives, When this balance is skewed we feel drained, fatigued and easily overwhelmed. My commitment to my clients is to walk beside you in your journey, finding your life balance. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, chronic pain, ADHD, trauma, multiple medical issues, chronic pain, and those that are struggling with everyday living, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I specialize in Trauma, from bullying to combat PTSD, anxiety and depression. Issues that manifest when we don't process the emotional and physical pain we experience. I also work with couples who have experienced infidelity, sexual issues, infertility, or those that are going through divorce or loss of their relationship. I come from a holistic patient-centered approach, we work together on a multidimensional plan, using various therapeutic techniques such as CBT, DBT, EFT-Tapping and guided trauma work in books like " Safely Embodied", " Your a Bad Ass, and Codependency No More. I use many different techniques. I incorporate multiple approaches holistic medical and nutritional treatments. I stress to use each session as a springboard to process the new skills we discuss.

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 Parenting?

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, Parenting, 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.