Blue Shield Therapists in California

Accessing mental health services with Blue Shield can simplify the path to quality, affordable care. With 26 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: 7/2/2025

Craig Harris

(he/him)

Craig Harris, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! My name is Craig Harris. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) currently providing telehealth services. I currently work with adult individuals (all age ranges). I do not currently work with anyone under the age of 18, do not offer family or couples counseling. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental and supportive environment for you to find a path to a healthier, more fulfilling life. I am passionate about working with people to improve their lives. I am a huge believer that a good connection is the foundation of good therapy. I currently work at a Level 1 Trauma Center as an Emergency Department Crisis Social Worker. I am inspired every day to help patients and their families cope with traumatic injuries and mental health crises. I do have extensive experience in the areas of depression, anxiety, work stress, addiction & chronic pain. I have also worked in a variety of mental health settings (outpatient, community based, in-home services and residential treatment programs). I have worked with children, adults and families in a variety of settings for over 20 years. I combine understanding and empathy with a straight forward, strength-based and solution-focused approach. I am here to help you reach your goals and improve your relationships with your family, friends, co-workers, loved ones and most importantly yourself. I look forward to speaking with you.

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.

Lacey Morris

Lacey Morris, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
2 years of experience
Virtual
As a child I was always very sensitive and curious about the world that surrounded me. It came natural to help people and I knew that I wanted to give back to the world at large. Just like you I suffered from some childhood wounds. My parents did the best they could with the tools they had. But due to their struggles I became a very codependent child wanting to save and fix my parents to simply gain the love I desired. Later on I would be able to understand this cycle and name some of the patterns I lived out. People pleasing, losing myself in toxic relationships and not fully loving that little girl inside of me. Once I became a LMFT and gained the knowledge and tools necessary I was not only able to break my own patterns, I was also able to help others find joy and deep meaning in their lives. Ultimately I specialize in helping people understand their patterns and be more effective communicators in their world. My role has been a guide and coach for my clients, providing innovative approaches based on Gestalt Method, Ancient Forgiveness Techniques, Psychodynamic Therapy, NLP and Hypnosis. I use these techniques to help my clients break patterns, many of which are fear based as a result of early childhood trauma that causes emotional issues in the present. This is deep and powerful work, and is necessary to enable a positive path to desired future. I look forward to working with you and guiding you on the path to healing and freedom.

Diane Ussery

Diane Ussery, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
With over 20 years of experience as a mental health therapist working in the state of California. I have a varied background of expedience from mental health to hospice care and treating incarcerated individuals., I am dedicated to helping individuals and couples find workable solutions to situations they previously could not handle. My mission is to assist you in identifying your goals while offering strategies to improve relationships and foster creativity.

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.

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.

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.

Ms Stephanie

Ms Stephanie, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Do you want a better day tomorrow than you had yesterday? Do you worry about things you have no control over? Do you ask, “Is this all there is to my life?” What happened to your dreams, your goals, your “someday I’ll be…I’ll do…, I’ll have…”? Hello, please call me Stephanie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 20 years in the helping profession. I love the Martial Arts for it’s discipline of the body, mind, and spirit. I believe everyone should learn some Self-Protection techniques for all aspects of life; Physical, Mental, Emotional, Spiritual, Financial etc. Wellbeing is my personal ambition. My two favorite words are Peace and Hope. I also have a faithful trust in God. I am not in charge.

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.

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

Christy Stinton

Christy Stinton, LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
20 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed counselor, with 20 years of experience. I have a warm and interactive style. I believe that real change occurs in a safe and accepting counseling environment. My approach is to combine cognitive-behavioral, developmental and person centered counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

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.

Susan Madson

(she/her)

Susan Madson, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Susan Madson, I am a LCSW. I specialize in depression, anxiety, anger issues, identifying coping skills, build relationship skills, identify client strengths, increase self care tools, build self esteem, teach meditations skills, grounding, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques. I help to reduce trauma symptoms by helping clients to learn self regulation skills. I encourage client to participate in homework assignments to build skills to stabilize a clients emotional and behavioral functioning. Further, specialties include addiction issues, grief work and couples therapy. My most common therapy techniques that I use first is client centered therapy approach. I start where the client is most comfortable and work on building a safe environment for the client. My first goal is to build a therapeutic relationship with my client. Then my goal is to work with strength based, cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT, solutions focused, interpersonal therapy, narrative therapy, and mindfulness therapy techniques. I use an eclectic approach as each client is different and has different needs. My goal is to help the client's to identify the fact that sometimes therapy is identifying the small steps that client is making towards their treatment goals.

Deneen Maria Asuncion

(she/her)

Deneen Maria Asuncion, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
23 years of experience
Virtual
Do you have others around you who support you? Has there been any change in your sleep, physical activity, and/ or diet? How would you rate your current stress level? Lastly, is it a constant battle to maintain a semi-positive outlook on life due to unresolved grief and loss issues? * Current Certifications: 1. ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP). 2. Certified Mindfulness- Informed Professional (CMIP). • As a psychotherapist, I work towards building effective relationships with my clients. The care that I provide is collaborative, coordinated, and attainable. • My patients' and their family members' preferences, values, cultural traditions, and socioeconomic conditions are always respected. • My patients will consistently receive emotional support to relieve fear, behavioral issues, anxiety, and depression. • My qualities as a highly skilled psychotherapist are as follows: patient, solution-focused, empathetic, confident, observant, excellent listening skills, and respect for diversity. • My primary goal is empowering you to create or maintain a healthy sense of emotional, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. My specialties are as follows: 1. ADHD - Children, Adolescents, and Adults 2. Women's issues 3. Men's Issues 4. Abortion, Pregnancy Loss, Miscarriage, and Infertility 5. Stress Management 6. Anxiety Disorders 7. Depression 8. Sleep Disturbances 9. Relationship Problems 10. Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Anxiety, and Phobias 11. Fully Remote Work/ Hybrid Workers 12. Stay-at-Home Mom/ Dad 13. Individuals with Disabilities such as Chronic Pain, Dwarfism (Children/ Adolescents/Adults), Musculoskeletal Injuries, Cancer, Blind, Immune-Disorders, Down Syndrome, Specific Learning Disorders, Epilepsy, etc. 14. Child and Adolescent Mental Health Issues 15. Addiction and Substance Misuse Issues You deserve a consistently safe place to heal and grow. In our sessions, I will join you with compassion and evidence-based practices - so that you can get through this very difficult time in your life. * Please note that I do not write the following letters: Letters for Emotional Support Animal (ESA) or Letters for Court-related matters.

Christina Dawn Nelson, Ph.D.

(she/her)

Christina Dawn Nelson, Ph.D., LP - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, I'm Dr. Christina. Do you have a hard time regulating your emotions? Are you struggling to find meaning and value in life? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? How are your relationships with others? I am a licensed clinical psychologist with several years of experience working in mental health. For the past few years, I have been providing telehealth services to adults struggling with adulting. I help people who are easily overwhelmed to practice distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Together, we can strategize about what to do to help you to manage your emotions and to face and experience scary or challenging emotions. We can explore ways you may be escaping or avoiding the experience of difficult emotions. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. We can integrate mindfulness, music, and movement to help unveil who you are and explore your relationship with yourself. Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. 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. Let's work together!

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.

Courtney L. Ransom

(she/her)

Courtney L. Ransom, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
Do you suffer from constant anxiety and or panic attacks? Do you have a history of loss, difficult relationships and other traumatic experiences that hurt when you think about them today? Well, you are not alone. Seeking counseling can be an anxious time for many people, yet I believe it can be the start of a positive and productive experience. I believe joining with my clients to create a therapy experience tailored to their individual needs is important. The therapy sessions will be a safe place to gain new skills to help you live a more prosperous and fulfilling life. I offer online therapy which provides convenience, privacy and affordability all in one place. There are so many different types of situations or experiences that can create a need for therapy. I have experience successfully helping people feel less depressed or anxious, build their parenting skills with strong-willed children, get through difficult life changes, improve their relationship with their partner or friends, and create a less stressful environment for themselves. I am trained in a few research-based treatments for trauma and parenting. I am a Faith Based Christian Therapist. I received my Bachelor's in Social Work from Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland and my Master's in Social Work from Stanislaus State in Turlock, California where I served 5 years as a Professor in the MSW Department teaching on The Effects of Childhood Trauma.

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.

Alan Lawrence

(he/him)

Alan Lawrence, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Gerontologist/Life Coach and hold three master's degrees in clinical psychology, social work, and gerontology. We age from birth with many challenges and changes as we grow older. A burden shared is a burden lifted. Accomplish your goals and move forward. Learning lessons from the past, and understanding your thinking process and internal dialogue will empower you with new insights and direction. There is no need to drive to your therapist's office at rush hour. The therapist is zoomed via a HIPAA compliant platform into the comfort of your home. Let's get started now.

Richard De La Garza

(he/him)

Richard De La Garza, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
18 years of experience
Virtual
Richard De La Garza is a licensed clinical social worker. His educational background includes a Bachelor's degree from San Jose State University and a Master's degree in Public Administration from Columbia University, and he is currently in pursuit of a Doctorate in Philosophy of Leadership from the University of San Diego. His research intersects multicultural facets of underrepresented first-generation, non-traditional, veteran, and disabled persons and is committed to social justice and culturally competent care. His experience includes working in a variety of settings including the US Army, as a direct commissioned officer for active-duty servicemen. Richard has provided consultation for a non-profit board of directors, case management for a community mental health clinic, and facilitated government partnerships across the military and Palo Alto VA. Richard aligns with a holistic therapeutic approach that is person-centered, psychodynamic, narrative, cognitive behavioral, solution-oriented, integrative systems, and storytelling. Richard's leadership style reflects traits like being bilingual, amiable, and tenacious. Richard strives to expand self-awareness to recognize everyone should be a learner who is capable of growth and redemption. Richard is also trained to provide EMDR therapy.

Tristin Victor

(she/her)

Tristin Victor, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Vulnerability is the foundation of human interactions and relationships. Let me help you become comfortable with your vulnerabilities in a compassionate and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. Finding a sense of love and belonging can help us build relationships when we dare to be imperfect. My ideal client is one who is motivated, open, and willing to commit to the therapeutic process to gain personal insight and reduce current symptoms that are negatively impacting their functioning. Allow me to partner with you and help you understand that you are worthy of connection, love, and belonging.

James H. Kurtz

James H. Kurtz, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
 Love and work are essential to a meaningful life. Relationships with others define experience and work gives a sense of purpose. Disturbance in these affect well being and contribute to an overwhelmed response leading to collapse. As trauma is relational so is recovery and healing. Having the right therapeutic alliance is a key element and requires, attunement and constistency.  James has over 17 years of clinical experience treating diverse individuals in a variety of settings. As a Mind-Body-Awareness trained therapist, he works with adults having problems with anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. In addition to having a graduate degree in Social Work from San Jose State University; he also attended years of practicum training from the following: Certification in Somatic Experiencing from SE Trauma Institute; Sierra Institute for Contemporary Gestalt Training; Professional Training in Hakomi Mindfulness-Based Experiential Psychotherapy Santa Cruz; iRest Integrative Restoration, an evidence informed meditation practice for trauma; Certification in Satyananda Yoga Nidra; and Completion of 500 hours of Sivananda Yoga Teacher Training. 

Karin Klapova

(she/her)

Karin Klapova, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! My name is Karin and I’m here to help you discover the healing that your mind and body are capable of. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and a Holistic Health Coach from Santa Monica, Ca. I am a certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider (CMHIMP). Across my professional experience, I have worked with multiple individuals and couples struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, and emotional eating.

Rickey Bates

(he/him)

Rickey Bates, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist, complemented by my background as a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. My clinical training includes a Master’s in Social Work with a focus on Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality, which informs my understanding of how diverse life experiences shape individuals’ perspectives and interactions with their environments. This foundation allows me to approach therapy with cultural humility and a deep appreciation for the complexities of identity and systemic influences. In my practice, I utilize a person-centered, solution-focused approach that prioritizes client autonomy and self-determination. I collaborate closely with clients to identify their unique challenges and barriers, empowering them to develop realistic and meaningful short-term and long-term goals. Together, we explore and optimize the therapeutic tools that clients have already been using, while considering the introduction of additional strategies when appropriate. My goal is to support clients in creating actionable plans that align with their values and aspirations, fostering resilience and sustainable growth in both their present lives and future endeavors.

Melba Morales

(she/her)

Melba Morales, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
23 years of experience
Virtual
Mi lengua materna es Espanol y soy fluente en Ingles y espanol. I am a dedicated and highly emphatic therapist. My style is Eclectic therapy because it allows me to utilize multiple theoretical orientations and techniques. I have been exposed to different cultures and I am grateful that I was able to connect with a diverse population from around the world. I believe that each person is unique and their experiences and needs are also unique and that’s why I use the technique that will fit the moment and the need. I am very flexible and will explain what and why I am utilizing the approach at the moment. I believe that patients already bring the answers or solutions within and my job is to help them identify their strengths and to work through their weaknesses. I have been working in the mental health field for twenty years. My personal experiences have made me the person I am today and also helped me to connect with people’s experiences. I believe in what I do because I know that people can change their circumstances all they need is willingness and a conscious personal awareness. My strengths are adults male/female (relational, self-esteem, domestic abuse, family issues, vocational, work problems/stress, couples, PTSD, trauma)., anxiety, panic attacks, trauma - PTSD. I was born in Nicaragua and have been living in California for the past 40+ years and I connect and understand the immigrant first/second generation culture and the struggles they may face. I am fluent/bilingual in English/Spanish.

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 Spirituality?

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, Spirituality, 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.