Existential Therapy Therapists in California

Existential Therapy delves into life’s fundamental questions—purpose, freedom, and meaning—providing a thoughtful space for self-reflection and growth. This approach is ideal for individuals navigating life transitions, existential anxiety, or questions of identity, offering guidance to embrace uncertainty and live authentically. With 22 existential therapists in California, you can access expert support to explore your values and uncover a deeper sense of purpose. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is open to new clients, providing timely availability for those on a journey of self-discovery and meaningful change.

Franco Romualdez

(he/him)

Franco Romualdez, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$185/session
LMFT
9 years of experience
Virtual
A quote that has always brought me courage, "Into the Great Perhaps," moves us to embrace the unknown. It's an invitation to dream and a challenge to have the courage to step into uncertainty. This concept deeply resonates with my therapeutic approach. I emphasize that embracing uncertainty is where growth and transformation occur. In therapy, we'll explore the uncharted territories of your thoughts, emotions, and relationships and view life's challenges as opportunities for personal growth. Together, we'll journey toward self-discovery and personal development. Life is filled with uncertainties, and navigating the intricacies of relationships can often resemble an unmapped voyage. Yet, within these unknowns lies the potential for healing and transformation. Let's uncover what the "Great Perhaps" means for you. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with years of experience, I provide a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space for you to explore your experiences. I firmly believe in the resilience of the human spirit and our capacity for positive change, even amidst adversity.

Sharon Vargas

(she/her)

Sharon Vargas, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$125/session
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
My approach is based on who you are and what is relevant for you in order to be your best self. I collaboratively work with clients in re-connecting with their innate strength and resilience in their journey to face change and heal unresolved issues. I use a variety of modalities that support a client's ability to reconnect with their inner-self and identify ways in which they want to make positive changes. I treat a number of issues including unresolved complex trauma, addiction, co-occurring disorders, life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief & loss, relationship difficulties, low self esteem, Adult Children of Alcoholics, impact & insight into historical trauma, and sexual abuse. I am warm, empathetic and supportive but not afraid to challenge clients when necessary. I utilize evidence based and creative approaches such as CBT, Strength-Based approach, Trauma Informed CBT, Family Systems, DBT, Jungian art based skills and concepts, Assertive communication skills, and Mindfulness Based. I currently hold active LCSW licenses in both California and New Mexico.

Janet Forelo

Janet Forelo, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
Beyond feeling better, I like to help people feel like themselves. You might be coming to therapy feeling lost, confused, or defeated. I provide a structure of safety to help you redetermine your course. I work to get to know you in your world, with its parts big and small. When you find how everything is connected, you can truly connect with yourself and meet your needs.

Atara Parkinson

(she/her)

Atara Parkinson, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$150/session
LMFT
13 years of experience
Virtual
I help clients find meaningful and lasting healing through reconnection with the mind, body and and soul so that they can live an embodied life. My name is Atara and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I specialize in clients looking to work on developing a deeper understanding between the mind and body connection. I use somatic approaches in my work such as because holistic healing does not just happen in the mind. I love to support clients in creating a sustainable vision. The goal in my work is to empower clients on gaining clarity to obtain holistic balance in mind, body, and soul. I believe that a strong therapeutic connection is vital and progress can be limited when a client doesn’t feel understood. My aim is to align with my clients so that they can feel understood and seen but also unravel the beliefs that no longer serve them.

Greg Ragle

(he/him)

Greg Ragle, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$110/session
LMFT
3 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
1522 18th St, B...
Hi, I am Greg, You are given a safe space to discuss what you may be going through. Are you struggling with anxiety, being authentic, feeling overwhelmed or having relationship issues? Are you in a transitional period in life? Together we can identify protective factors and strengths to build upon. We can use myth, personal narrative, mindfulness and somatic exercises to address mind, body and soul. You may be nervous seeking therapy, but you deserve a guide in your healing journey. Let’s work together to walk the path.

Edith Contreras

(she/her)

Edith Contreras, LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$80/session
LPCC
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in California. I received my Masters from the California State University of Los Angeles and have been practicing for 8 years. I have experience treating a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relational problems, and career and/or academic stress and burnout. Together we can discover and find meaning in your unique life experiences.

Tamer Mostafa

(he/him)

Tamer Mostafa, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! My name is Tamer, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked for nearly 10 years in different capacities such as refugee resettlement, disability rights, substance use recovery, community health, and LGBTQIA+ centered care. I am most excited about creative self-expression, and I believe in person-centered approaches to understand the powerful role that stories play in shaping our everyday lives. I also find tremendous value in working together to deconstruct how these stories show up in the context of anxiety, stress, depression, and trauma. Seeking therapy is one of the most courageous steps you can take for yourself. Whether you want to heal past wounds, resolve conflict in your relationships, or better manage the stressors of life, therapy is the space where your goals and values are prioritized. It is where you can feel safe to be vulnerable and open. Because there is no singular way to engage in treatment, therapy does not conform to strict constructs, norms, or stereotypes. Rather, therapy is meant to reflect your authentic self and promote the innate power you hold. The right therapist should honor the nuances of your life’s journey, while also helping explore the path forward that you want to lead. In the words of Brené Brown, “Story stewardship means honoring the sacred nature of story–the ones we share and the ones we hear–and knowing that we’ve been entrusted with something valuable or that we have something that we should treat with respect and care." I look forward to honoring your journey here, and your journey forward. Thank you so much!

Shilana Williams

Shilana Williams , LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 17 years of experience in the mental health field. I assist individuals, couples, and families in finding healthy alternatives and solutions by identifying and addressing patterns that may be impacting their well-being and hindering growth. My focus is on helping clients become the best versions of themselves through meaningful and effective interventions.

Peter N Fischetti

Peter N Fischetti, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LMFT
25 years of experience
Virtual
Do you feel stuck? Struggling to better your relationships with others and/or with yourself, yet finding yourself repeatedly experiencing frustration and disappointment? I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and my passion is helping people overcome self-limiting thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors. I have worked in many mental health settings with problems ranging from severe mental illness to problems of adjustment, and I draw from my training and experience to be creative in helping my clients work through challenges. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, and families identify what is most important to them and helping them find solutions that they feel enthusiastic about using to better their lives. My areas of expertise include healthy communication and men's issues.

Gaia Akopian

Gaia Akopian , LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
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.

Ramy Danon

Ramy Danon, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$130/session
LMFT
18 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 19 years of experience helping people work through life’s challenges and build stronger, more fulfilling relationships. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Miami and completed two graduate degrees at the University of Southern California (USC)—one in Marriage and Family Therapy and the other in Education. I work with individuals -- and sometimes include relationship partners in session -- to navigate relationship struggles, personal challenges, and life transitions. My focus includes helping people who are dealing with anxiety or depression, men’s issues, or ADHD symptoms, as well as those looking to improve how they connect with others and feel more balanced in life. I’m here to help you communicate your emotions more effectively, strengthen your relationships, and create the kind of life that feels truly meaningful and satisfying. Whether you’re looking to improve your relationships or better understand yourself, I’ll support you in finding clarity and confidence every step of the way.

David Volker

(he/him)

David Volker, LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LPCC
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Berkeley California and serving clients statewide via telehealth. I received my Masters in Integral Counseling from the California Institute of Integral Studies in 2019 and my Bachelors in Psychology from Reed College in 2010. I have over 15 years of experience in Community Mental Health and have been practicing as a therapist since 2018. I work eclectically, integrating a wide range of approaches including humanistic, relational, existential, somatic, gestalt, psychodynamic, transpersonal, motivational interviewing, ACT, feminist, IFS, polyvagal, somatic experiencing, narrative, NVC, and IFS. I support people to find greater connection, safety, agency, meaning, authenticity, stillness and joy in their relationships with themselves, others and the world.

Dan Powell, MA, MFT, BCBA

(he/him)

Dan Powell, MA, MFT, BCBA, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$175/session
LMFT
22 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, My name is Dan Powell, and I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist with over 23 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, and families facing a wide range of mental health challenges. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and professionalism, ensuring that every client feels heard, supported, and respected. I am committed to providing high-quality, individualized care through evidence-based treatments tailored to meet each client’s unique needs. My diverse professional background allows me to draw from a broad range of therapeutic approaches, ensuring that my clients receive the most effective and personalized care possible. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and I work closely with my clients to help them achieve their goals and navigate life’s challenges with resilience and confidence. My areas of specialization include treating anxiety, depression, phobias, and life transitions. I also provide support for parenting challenges, couples conflicts, and more complex mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), schizophrenia, personality disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. Additionally, I have extensive experience in helping individuals overcome alcohol and chemical addictions, as well as working with those who have experienced trauma. If you’re ready to take the first step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being, I encourage you to reach out. Contact me today to schedule an appointment. I look forward to meeting you and supporting you on your journey to healing and personal growth. Best, Dan Powell MA., MFT, BCBA

Lisa Cynthia

(she/her)

Lisa Cynthia , LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
You have the wisdom and power to bring change and peace into your life, and I am here to help you find your strengths and reclaim your power. Using a client-centered, straight-forward and empathetic approach, I can help you confront and integrate painful experiences so you can move forward as the hero in your own story, healing the root along with the symptom and taking all aspects of life and the environment into consideration. Together, we will build your self-worth and find confidence within your Self as you navigate life and all of its complex transitions. Specializing in complex trauma and the abandonment wound as both a personal survivor and clinical professional, I have over a decade of experience providing trauma-informed educational services, mental/emotional health therapy, and grief counseling to all age groups from elementary-aged children to elders transitioning into death. Services I provide include: strengths-based talk therapy, art/creative therapy, psychoeducation/coping skills, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Depth/Jungian psychotherapy, and shadow work.

Shaon Martineau

(he/him)

Shaon Martineau , LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$155/session
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Therapy is a journey, and as your therapist, I step into the role of being your journeyman walking alongside you as we navigate the path together. We’ll take time to explore your life experiences and the challenges that brought you here, working in a way that honors your unique perspective and language. I aim to create a safe, collaborative space free from judgment or bias, where you can feel supported and truly understood. As your journeyman, I’m here to help you develop the skills and utilize the tools you need to manage life’s stressors in healthier, more fulfilling ways. Together, we’ll move toward clarity, growth, and balance.

Ryan Smith

(she/her)

Ryan Smith, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
I received my Bachelors of Arts in Communications and Master’s of Science in Marriage Family Child Therapy from California State University, Fresno. I am also a semester from graduating with my second Master’s of Science degree in Psychology. Throughout college, I was able to represent Fresno State University as a member of the collegiate rodeo team. This was extremely special to me, as the Central Valley has been my home since the day I was born. I grew up in a small town called Lemoore, California on my family’s 100-acre cattle ranch, which was home to my family, my cousins, uncles, aunts, and grandmother and grandfather. I have been with my college sweetheart for six years now and have been married for a little over a year. With this said, I can relate to the complexity of family dynamics and interpersonal relationships, as well as the effect that they can have on our lives. My passion lies in supporting individuals because I believe that each individual has their own integral part of the human experience. Each individual is unique, bringing their own set of morals, beliefs, triggers, traumas, and more. In my role as a therapist, my objective is to assist every individual in crafting the best possible life path for themselves.

Liza Patchen

(she/her)

Liza Patchen, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida and Tennessee. I am trained in EMDR, MBSR, CBT, DBT modalities, as well as employ Existential Therapy in practice, presenting an eclectic approach to therapy. My field of expertise is death and dying, grief and loss, traumatic experiences, serious mental health conditions, as well as mood disorders. I graduated from Florida Atlantic University in 2014 with Masters's degree in Social Work, and continued to expand my knowledge base, as well as narrow the focus of my work. I am in private practice at this moment, serving Jupiter and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, as well as Virtually, Tennessee and California. My Good Life Therapy is a vibrant practice with a focus on a whole person’s healing. Primarily, I see my clients virtually, however, in certain cases, I can make an exception and meet in person.

Andra Brosh, Ph.D.

(She/Her)

Andra Brosh, Ph.D., LP - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LP
15 years of experience
Virtual
I’m Dr. Andra Brosh, a licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in the personal development and self-improvement of women using a unique model that blends psychology, life coaching, and the mystical, magical tools of Astrology and Tarot. Getting unstuck from old patterns and unhelpful habits can feel impossible on your own. I offer an inspiring therapeutic experience that feels productive, action-oriented, and transformative. My approach is designed to push you out of your comfort zone into your authentic self through a process that is motivating, empowering, and inspiring. I will guide you down a mystical path, where you will re-discover and reclaim who you are when aligned with your true nature, your core values, and your deepest desires. You will become an even better mother, partner, daughter, lover, and caregiver because you have learned and embodied the ability to be good to yourself, to self-advocate, and to prioritize your own needs. You will have liberated yourself from the cycles of co-dependence, self-neglect, and the false narrative that you need to be everything to everyone. You will be in control of your time, feel the freedom you long for, make space for the solitude you deserve, and release the false expectations that leave you feeling lost, exhausted, and frazzled. The only script you will follow is of your own design because you have become the creator of your own life path. If you are afraid of never tapping into the deeper joy, peace, and freedom you know is possible, and you are ready to untether yourself from the self-limiting beliefs and social expectations that keep you stuck, book with me now.

Bernard Cushing

(he/they)

Bernard Cushing, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LMFT
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Bernard, I am a licensed therapist that has experience working with adolescence 12-17, young adults 18-26, & adults ages 27-32 seeking relief from anxiety, depression, and life transitions in sessions (I do not currently take clients under the age of "12" or over the age of 32 years old for virtual therapy), I like to walk with my clients through their therapeutic journey’s no matter the difficulty. I am a client centered therapist maintaining the belief that every client no matter their age is the expert at their own existence and has the ability to heal. I utilize humor when appropriate to strengthen therapeutic bonds to understand clients as a person and work with them through their own solutions pertaining to their specific challenges. I specialize in working with teens, young adults, & adults through difficulties with daily life challenges such as interpersonal relationships, family conflicts, life transitions, intimate partner challenges, academic, & career-related stress. I use a humanistic approach to my therapeutic style to explore what works best for clients. Some of the basic orientations I utilize are Mindfulness, Person-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative Therapy techniques. My specific therapy style assists clients in their journey and helps individuals understand thoughts, feelings, reactions, and responses, aiding with healing and growth. This can lead to a life that feels more grounded, joyful, and meaningful. I have experience working as an intensive outpatient therapist providing individual therapy, group therapy, and case management. I have experience working with children, teens, adults and their families as an Elementary, Middle, High School special education/general education, and adult inpatient therapist. I have worked with individuals from various walks of life, various spiritual beliefs, gender orientations, and a variety of racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Cody Elder

Cody Elder, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that has been practicing mental health in a variety of roles for over 7 years! I love working with those who have difficulties around feeling overwhelmed by life’s uncertainty and want to seek their true strength and purpose. With my help, you will begin to make the changes necessary to be the own agency of change to your issue as and enact your purpose in life!

Tom Batter

Tom Batter, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LMFT
35 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in private practice for over 35 years. In addition, I have worked in chemical dependency treatment facilities as well as psychiatric hospitals. I am currently providing telehealth sessions for individuals, couples and families. I received my Masters in Clincial Psychology from John F. Kennedy in Orinda, California as well as a Bachelors in Food Science and Nutritional and a Masters in Chemical Engineering both from the University of California at Berkeley. I find that my diverse background in education and experience allows me to understand a boarder range of people in need of help. Although I see people for a wide range of presenting problems, I do have specialized training and experience in treating issues related to chemical dependency.

Marina Tonkonogy

(Decline to specify)

Marina Tonkonogy, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LMFT
17 years of experience
Virtual
Do you feel like a "misfit"? Do you struggle with the dilemma of how to genuinely connect with others while protecting your freedom, independence and personal boundaries? It is possible to resolve this dilemma, make positive changes and accomplish your goals if you change your perceptions and shift your vision of life from a dualistic to a holistic one, but this work will take time and commitment. You and I may be a good match. if you have always wanted to make your life meaningful and to be understood as a unique individual, as opposed to a diagnostic label. Through active listening and honest dialog, together we will understand what prevents you from living the life you want and how to unlock your sources of creativity, inner strength, and wisdom.

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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 a specific issue?

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.

What are the "Clients say I'm" badges?

Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.

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.