Therapists that accept Cash Pay in California

Choosing a cash pay option for mental health care can provide flexibility and access to quality support without the constraints of insurance networks. With 235 verified therapists in California who accept cash pay, you can explore therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and supportive counseling to address a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist that has a cash pay option listed below is currently welcoming new clients and has availability soon, offering you a straightforward path to compassionate, accessible care on your terms.

Availability updated: 7/2/2025

Emily Zavala-Aguilar

(she/her)

Emily Zavala-Aguilar, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$175/session
LMFT
3 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I’m Emily. I am a licensed psychotherapist working in the Sacramento area. My therapy practice welcomes children, adolescents, adults, and families. I operate from the framework that through our shared humanity, we can find connection, understanding, and healing. As a humanistic and psychodynamic therapist, my practice emphasizes genuineness, self-discovery, and uncovering unconscious behaviors and patterns within a non-judgmental and empathic space

Melissa MacGown

(she/her)

Melissa MacGown, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$75/session
LMFT
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm Melissa. I love what I do! Counseling people is my life's work. Been doing it 20 years. Whatever you are going through, I can assure you, I've worked with someone who's dealt with something similar. I specialize in treating addiction, worked in 5 in-patient drug & alcohol treatment centers/rehabs in my career (mostly w/men). I have years of professional experience working with an array of issues and populations. I enjoy working with individuals and families. I have several years experience working w/teens, including those who grew up in the system, been abused, at high-risk, or with behavioral or learning problems. Clients feedback is reported as: I'm "easy to talk to," "friendly," "down to earth." I've been told I'm helpful & a "good listener;" that's important to me. I'm mostly solution-focused, meaning...I want to understand the problem, but get into the tough work of finding solutions as soon as possible. As a therapist, I have empathy, am caring, and invested in improving your life circumstances. I'm non-judgmental. I believe no matter how similar or different we may be, we can work together and develop rapport. We can start right away, opening lines of communication so I can understand where you're coming from and help anyway I can. My hope is to develop a warm, trusting relationship in which you feel comfortable, and heard. One of my favorite things to hear as a therapist from a client is, "exactly," because I know we're on the same page, and smile when a client says after session, " I feel much better." That's my aspiration, to help, get to know you. Please understand this is not just a job for me. I'm genuinely here for you! Thanks for taking the time to read this & learn more about me as a professional.

Mannya Sharma

(she/her)

Mannya Sharma, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Mannya Sharma, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 4 years of experience in the field. I am passionate about providing empathic and unconditional support to individuals, couples, and families in their recovery. My expertise lies in treating a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, and life transitions. I am committed to creating a safe and inclusive space for all clients, and I tailor my approach to meet each individual's unique needs and goals. Whether you are seeking support for a specific challenge or simply seeking personal growth, I am here to listen and guide you toward healing and well-being.

Ligia Orellana

(she/her)

Ligia Orellana, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$150/session
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Are you BIPOC or Queer? Hi, I’m Ligia. I help First Gen BIPOC and Queer folks in individual therapy heal from guilt and shame so they can feel more at peace with their sense of self. If you’ve ever struggled with feeling “not enough,” put everyone else’s needs before your own, or felt pressure to shrink yourself to fit in, you’re not alone. I specialize in helping clients untangle these experiences, understand their emotions, and heal from attachment wounds in a way that honors your cultural background and lived experiences. My goal is to support you in living in a way that feels honest, spacious, and aligned with who you truly are. Together, we’ll create a safe, affirming space to explore, unlearn, and grow—so you can move through the world more authentically, joyfully, and unapologetically.

Stephen Mosblech

Stephen Mosblech, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Stephen and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist serving clients remotely in California and Florida. As a therapist I’m passionate about awe and the belief that to be fundamentally heard transforms our suffering at its core. I will provide you with a place to say and explore what you can't anywhere else in your life. In our work all of you is welcome: your heartbreak, depressions, dreams and rage, your jealousies, anxiety, all of your crises and shattered parts, the tangles and glories of your sexuality and your relationship with power, money and the intangible. I do this work because life is happening now, and not one second of it can be gotten back. My approach is person-centered, it honors your uniqueness. I blend insights from psychoanalysis with expertise gained over two-decades of deep commitment to meditation. I completed my MA Clinical Psychology at California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco. I also hold a BA in film and contemporary philosophy from Brown University. 
I have worked in community, school based, private practice and recovery settings. I continue to

Diane L. Foster

(she/her)

Diane L. Foster, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$150/session
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years experience and training with individuals, couples and families who want to take charge of their lives. Together we can explore new coping skills, strengthen existing skills to improve relationships, and sharpen communication skills to enjoy harmony in your life. My approach is strength based, non traditional and focuses on your individualized needs. I take an empathetic, common-sense approach to exploring life's problems and guiding you through the issues you are currently facing and the ones you continue to carry from your past.

Rena / Ro Oppenheimer

(they/them)

Rena / Ro Oppenheimer, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$200/session
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Ro and I am a white queer non-binary Ashkenazi Jewish somatic therapist and artist. Consent, harm reduction, and the abolition of police and prisons are important to me, and I strive to practice in ways that are honest and aligned with my values. A sense of humor is also essential to me in healing work-- I believe in making room to go deep as well as to have fun in therapy. I have experience working with folks who experience depression, self-harm, relationship issues, break-ups, trauma, and anxiety. I love working with adults, teens, families, queers, and creatives. Right now, I am only seeing clients on Telehealth.

Stacia Narasky

(she/her)

Stacia Narasky, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$160/session
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Stacia, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, specializing in therapy services in California. Providing therapy is my career, but it is also a passion of mine. To help another person learn to navigate their own struggles is a blessing in itself. "Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime". I would love to work with you to navigate whatever it is you are going through! ​ I have been providing therapy services since 2015, and have worked with all ages. I am currently providing online therapy services young adults (aged 18 and up) who are currently struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, work stress, life stressors and life transitions. Therapy sessions are conducted online.

Ness Ruvalcaba

(she/her)

Ness Ruvalcaba, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$180/session
LMFT
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Ness Ruvalcaba. I am an Spanish and English speaking licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I work with individuals who are are needing some extra support understanding or creating some change in their lives. I specialize in trauma informed care, PTSD, anxiety and depression, self harm, and various other issues and needs. I also work with individuals around resolving conflict, improving communication, processing difficult experiences, and various other experiences. I have also very much enjoyed supporting parents individually to work on having better relationships with their children and identify the most effective ways they can support their child. I have worked in various settings including virtual therapy, office or clinic based services, school based services with adolescents and their families, and community based services with newcomer and immigrant youth, youth in foster care, adults, and their families maneuvering complex systems. At this time, I do not meet with couples looking for couples therapy.

Taylor Stearns

(he/him)

Taylor Stearns, LP - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$250/session
LP
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Taylor. Navigating life's challenges can leave us feeling adrift, disconnected, or uncertain about our next steps. If you find yourself in such a situation, I am here to assist you through the power of psychotherapy. I specialize in providing individual psychotherapy to adults dealing with issues related to life transitions, depression, anxiety, and relationships.

Arakel Aristakessian

(he/him)

Arakel Aristakessian, LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LPCC
6 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Arakel Aristakessian and I am a first generation American of Armenian immigrants. There is never a lack of drama in my family and I think it is important to be mindful of cultural expectations and norms when navigating conflict. In this fashion, I use an individualized approach to meet my clients' needs. My style of therapy is grounded in the person-centered approach. I practice listening with empathy to my client’s lived experiences. I remind myself that it is not my place to judge anyone for their past choices. It is my responsibility to respond honestly and respectfully. My hope is to mediate shame, so that people feel comfortable and safe in opening up about what is troubling them. Once the therapeutic space feels safe, only then can various treatment methods truly be effective.

Jennifer Roberts

(she/her)

Jennifer Roberts, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$100/session
LMFT
30 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist helping my clients find more congruency and peace in their lives. People often believe that their feelings of anxiety and depression are their individual problem or failure, but very often these feelings are just a normal response to a challenging world. They come to their first session worried that they are crazy or deficient in some way, but they’re not. You don’t have to feel this way. I can help you develop understandings about how you are responding to your world, how you are making meaning of your life and how those meanings might be causing you to feel anxious, sad, hopeless, and frustrated. I have decades of experience helping people create lives that feel safe, meaningful, and more joyfully aligned with who they are and what they want.

Jania Sommers

(she/her)

Jania Sommers, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$175/session
LCSW
32 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome to my practice. I am a seasoned therapist and have worked in many different settings over many years. All I ever wanted to do is help people have their best lives. I practiced social work with a Bachelors degree in prisons, community agencies for the disabled, a state hospital, a state facility for people with cognitive challenges, child and family welfare work and working with folks in community care homes. I also developed and led a community program for Guardians ad Litem in child abuse and neglect cases. Then I went back to school and earned my Masters in Social Work and then my therapy credentials after many hours of supervision. I truly enjoy listening and encouraging clients to embrace strategies for wellness and self-compassion using mindfulness and compassion and strength based materials. I am actively engaged in consult groups with other therapists focusing on trans and queer issues. For several years I taught at the graduate school level in South Carolina and then Utah, teaching social work students skills for working ethically and compassionately.

Justin Kram

(he/him)

Justin Kram, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$175/session
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) currently based and practicing in Oregon, though with an active license in California as well. I attended California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) for graduate school and lived in the Bay Area for a decade before moving to Portland, OR shortly before the pandemic. I have over thirteen years of experience as a "generalist" therapist, though I specialize in supporting individuals in the midst of life transitions, including but not limited to: relationship challenges, moves to a new city or state, new or chronic medical diagnoses, career and work problems, spiritual questioning, transitions into the workforce or retirement. I do NOT work with couples at this time. While I consider the psychological theories behind my work, I hold them lightly in the room, believing most fundamentally in the importance of an adaptive, culturally-sensitive, non-judgmental stance with my clients. PLEASE NOTE: your chosen intake appointment time is subject to my final approval based on my shifting availability. I see clients on multiple platforms and am unable to sync all of my calendars in real time. Following the initial appointment, we will find a mutually agreeable meeting time and I will manage the booking on the Grow platform going forward, including rescheduling and cancellations. You will need to message me directly to cancel or reschedule your appointment. I request the courtesy of as much advanced notice as possible. I am not able to work with clients who cancel without 24 hrs advanced notice or no show more than twice.

Jerry Kao

(he/him)

Jerry Kao, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$155/session
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hey there! Feeling weighed down by depression or gripped by anxiety? Lost in life's twists and turns? Your journey matters, and I'm here to walk alongside you. I specialize in supporting those facing depression and anxiety by offering a compassionate hand to guide you toward healing and growth. I also assist those feeling adrift, helping them rediscover their purpose and direction. Our sessions are anything but cut-and-dried. They're dynamic, engaging, and full of possibilities. Bring a pen and notebook as we co-create strategies to propel you toward your aspirations. With EMDR therapy training, Certified Breath Coach, and expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I bring a diverse toolbox to our partnership. Your well-being is my top priority, and together, we'll illuminate the path to a brighter, more fulfilling life. Ready to take that courageous step toward greater well-being? Let's embark on this transformative journey together.

Rafael Diaz

(he/him)

Rafael Diaz, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California, dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized care. Life can present challenges that leave us feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or emotionally distressed. My goal is to create a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can safely explore and process these stressors. I enjoy meeting and working with diverse individuals and have gained experience working with young adults.

Erika Jackson

Erika Jackson, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$160/session
LMFT
9 years of experience
Virtual
As a dedicated Licensed Trauma-Focused Clinician, I am committed to creating a safe and supportive space where individuals and couples can explore emotions, process difficult feelings, and discover their underlying strengths to manage life stressors. My work in guiding people towards improving their lives is my passion. My therapeutic approach is very authentic, warm, with a touch of humor, ensuring that you feel comfortable and understood throughout our journey together. Many of my therapeutic techniques are backed by scientifically proven mental health theories or statistical research, and I am continuously learning new modalities through ongoing trainings. Imagine a therapy session that is not only effective but also feels like a genuine conversation with a trusted friend. My approach is direct, open-minded, and solution-focused, tailored to meet your unique needs as you reflect on your life. I believe in the power of concise communication, making each session impactful and focused on your progress. I am passionate about empowering my clients to face life’s challenges by tapping into their natural capabilities. In my practice, you'll find a non-judgmental and welcoming environment, where your concerns are met with compassion and understanding. My goal is to provide a safe and judgment-free space for you to explore life's unique challenges we all face. I'll walk alongside you to guide and assist in managing life stressors impacting your journey. With my support, we will develop solutions, coping skills, and an understanding of emotions to improve your quality of life. It is essential to me you leave each session with more insight, self-awareness, and self-acceptance than before. I am experienced in working with individuals, couples, children of all ages, diversity of ethnicities, genders, and different cultural frameworks, which I embrace with warm understanding and appreciation. Let's devote time to your personal growth and healing together.

April Jannise

(she/her)

April Jannise, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$100/session
LCSW
28 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. I received my Masters from the University of South Carolina in 1996 and have been practicing for 28 years. I have worked in a variety of settings, including outpatient, group homes and long-term inpatient units. I have been providing therapy through telehealth since 2013. I enjoy learning from people in all walks of life while helping them resolve their struggles and live their best lives.

Rosanna Salazar

(she/her)

Rosanna Salazar, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCSW
17 years of experience
Virtual
Life is really complex and challenging so I’m glad you’re checking in to find ways to support a fulfilled, happy and thriving YOU. Whether you are here to process trauma, sort out your future plans or relationships, learn new coping to manage stress, or some other area of your experience that is having an impact on you, I’m honored that you’ve considered how I can support you. In a process you are empowered to design, we will create a space where you can grow, heal and feel better using a variety of evidence-based techniques, a safe virtual environment and our therapeutic relationship!

Rafi Fadda

(she/they)

Rafi Fadda, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, proudly based in Oakland, California. I have supported folks over the last decade and was called to social work while employed at an art studio for adults with various health needs. In 2017, I received my Master's in Social Welfare from the University of California, Berkeley. I have been practicing as a social worker for 9 years. I support folks 18+ in navigating trauma and self worth. As a Lebanese-American therapist, I aim to work with folks who are seeking the opportunity to re-examine their cultural storyline and get creative in unpacking their identity. Together, let’s challenge societal expectations and strive to center your authentic self. A little about me, personally: I identify as an artist and child of the earth, as diaspora has scattered my ancestors across the Arab world, Africa, Europe, and North America. I am fascinated by intersectionality and the powerful ways that resilience shapes our multi-hyphenate individuality. It is important that I take care of myself so that I can be a pillar of support to my clients. The way that I release painful feelings is by channeling them into creative projects. I also work hard to stay connected to my body and my surroundings. Whether it’s through writing, building clay sculptures, beading, or making collages, self-expression is a healing practice. I encourage everyone to play a little bit!

Chauncy Sherman

(she/her)

Chauncy Sherman, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$95/session
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
I'm so happy you are here. My name is Chauncy, and I'm a Licensed Therapist based in Southern California. Life very rarely goes according to our plans. My goal is to help you navigate the twists and turns so you can live a richer, fuller, more empowered life. Clients of all backgrounds are welcome, and my specialties include anxiety, depression, racially-based PTSD, and religious trauma.

Melissa Hudson

(she/her)

Melissa Hudson, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am a Licenced Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working as a therapist for 10 years. My goal is to provide guidance, support, and feedback in a safe therapeutic space to ultimately help you heal and strengthen your resilience. I help my clients identify areas they would like to develop and learn new coping skills in order to enhance strengths and abilities which can help them achieve a greater degree of happiness and contentment in their lives.

Tracie Lima

(she/her)

Tracie Lima, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$115/session
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience providing therapy and support to individuals from all walks of life. I earned my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work from San José State University. Throughout my career, I’ve been committed to creating a safe, affirming space—especially for members of the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized groups. I believe in meeting clients where they are, honoring their lived experiences, and working collaboratively to foster healing, growth, and resilience.

Rande Dorn

(she/her)

Rande Dorn, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
You are grieving, heartbroken, or lost. You didn’t get the job, you broke up with your partner, someone important has died. Grief is normal and exquisite and painful. You want to talk about it, but you don’t want to burden anyone. Here you have permission to be a burden. To be messy, seen, repetitive, and stuck. I’ll meet you there, but won’t leave you there. We work towards managing the unimaginable. Reckoning with the stories we tell and the paths lost, in order to reconcile with where we truly are. There you will find possibility. New stories, new love, new hope. There you will find the courage to start again.

Ashton G

(she/her)

Ashton G, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
My therapeutic style is warm, nonjudgmental, and friendly. My hope is to help my clients understand they are not alone and there is always hope to move forward. If you have a desire to make a positive change in your life, therapy may be the right path for you. I provide a user-friendly telehealth office setting and do my best to work with your schedule.

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 insurance?

When booking you’ll be asked to verify with your Member ID. However, if you don’t have any of the insurances available 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 LGBTQ?

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, LGBTQ, 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.