Gold Coast Health Plan Medi-Cal Therapists in California

Finding mental health care through the Gold Coast Health Plan Medi-Cal can provide accessible, cost-effective support tailored to your needs. With 43 verified therapists in California who accept Gold Coast Health Plan Medi-Cal, you have options across therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and family therapy to address concerns like depression, stress, or family issues. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is open to new clients and has availability soon, ensuring you receive timely, compassionate care within your Gold Coast Medi-Cal coverage.

Availability updated: 7/12/2025

Shammeer Dawson

Shammeer Dawson, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have worked with individuals, families and in interdisciplinary teams for over 15 years in community mental health in outpatient and intensive services. Many of my clients were of high acuity and I supported them by creating a treatment plan that suits their needs. I have experience working within marginalized and diverse communities.

Cusanda Howard

Cusanda Howard, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
25 years of experience
Virtual
Hi I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been doing Individual adult, child, and couples therapy for over 20 years. I have been helping people struggling with trauma, learn how to cope with death of a loved one, couples to reinvent their relationships and provide relaxation therapy in groups so they can manage their emotions and behaviors in their lives.

Marla Bourgea

(she/her)

Marla Bourgea, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
17 years of experience
In-person
2455 Bennett Va...
I am a therapist with over 17 years of experience working with children, teens, and young adults from diverse backgrounds. Throughout my career, I have worked in adolescent residential treatment centers, community mental health agencies, and in private practice. I specialize in working with clients struggling with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, and attachment issues, as well as clients with ASD and ADHD. I am a skilled family therapist and have extensive experience working with the LBGTQAI+ community.

Danny Meadows

(he/him)

Danny Meadows, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
20 years of experience
Virtual
As a natural-born empath, I have always worked in roles where I am able to help others understand themselves better in order to live fulfilled lives. I have worked in the mental health field for many years. I started my career in mental health by working with women and children of domestic violence and then gained most of my work experience working in juvenile halls and county jails. My education and experiences have led me to understand that there are many paths and no one path is the same.

Isai Serrano

(he/him)

Isai Serrano, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Isai (E-sai-EE), and I’m a Therapist based out of Southern California. I have experience working with all ages and backgrounds. My training as a social worker focuses on individual therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. My professional interests and specialities include working with teens, young adults, older adults, family therapy, and those who struggle with anxiety, depression, marital/relationship issues, men’s issues, autism, anger management, and those with difficulty understanding/controlling big emotions. As a male therapist, I try to make my sessions feel like a conversation with a friend and offer a calm space to talk about difficult issues, a new perspective to help better understand situations, and can help you identify and understand how you might be feeling.

Jackie McAllister

(she/her)

Jackie McAllister, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
11 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, My name is Jackie. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I'm dedicated to supporting my clients to navigate life challenges, experience emotional healing, and an improved quality of life. I believe in taking time to get to know you, and understand your world view and life experiences. I have extensive experience assisting clients in managing and reducing stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship dynamics. I also offer therapy in Spanish language.

Daniel Alpiger

Daniel Alpiger, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Good day! My name is Daniel and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience serving multiple populations including clients struggling through financial hardship, life changes, relationship issues, emotional/ physical abuse/trauma, diagnosis of a serious mental illness in the family, and depression/ anxiety. I graduated from the University of Texas A&M - Commerce and am currently licensed in California, Kentucky, and Texas. I believe the bravest and most fulfilling way to grow is to "do the work" and I look forward to assisting clients in that journey in every way that I can.

Arnold Presley

Arnold Presley, LP - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
19 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 19 years of experience in the area of Physical, Emotional and Sexual Trauma. I have provided services to military, law enforcement and crime victims as well as those who have less violent experiences that cause problems with their family members and spouses. I feel that it is essential for people to have a safe, respectful and healthy relationship with their loved ones in order to fully appreciate and enjoy life to the fullest.

Tiffany Drake

Tiffany Drake, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! My name is Tiffany Drake and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and I’m here to support you as you take this important step. In our first session, my focus is on getting to know you—your experiences, concerns, and hopes for therapy. We’ll discuss what brought you here and begin to identify goals that feel meaningful to you.

Rosa Adams

Rosa Adams, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker fluent in English and Spanish. I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Social Welfare from the University of Puerto Rico and a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Nebraska in Omaha. I have dedicated my career empowering individuals, families, and communities. I believe in people's inherent ability to lead healthier lives and see it as the driving force behind every relationship.

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.

Meta L. Petty

(she/her)

Meta L. Petty, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
I believe in honoring each individual as the expert of their own life, meeting them without judgment or preconceptions. Counseling, for me, is not about labeling problems but about discovering solutions and effective coping strategies. I work with individuals of all ages, including children, teenagers, adults, couples, and families, who are facing a wide range of challenges, with a particular passion for geriatric mental health. Embarking on therapy is a courageous and potentially life-changing decision, and I am dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. I am deeply committed to helping others realize their full potential. My areas of expertise include providing support for grief, depression, life stressors, divorce, blended families, and individuals and families involved with state agencies.

Don Ross

(he/him)

Don Ross, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
30 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
1956 W Steele L...
My name is Don Ross, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with individuals & couples and focus mainly on the here-and-now: the thoughts, feelings, and sensations that come up as we work together. Clients describe me as warm, human, and responsive. My #1 priority is to be fully present, accepting, and genuine—and to trust that each person I see has the wisdom and resources to find their own answers to whatever struggles have brought them to me. In my experience, people heal and grow if they are given the time, attention, and human connection they need to feel they are not alone in facing their troubles. I know this road personally—as client as well as therapist. For most of us, the process of healing means growth, learning, and better relationships with ourselves and the people in our lives--and it’s often an enjoyable journey. I welcome you as you share your journey from crisis to growth.

Lus Hernandez

Lus Hernandez, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello there, I’m Lus. Do you miss feeling like yourself? Does it feel like you are going around in circles with the same problems yet can’t seem to find a permanent solution? I guide adults from a person-centered approach to find solutions to their problems when experiencing difficult feelings such as those that come with depression and anxiety. I can help you work through major life transitions (newly married, becoming a parent, empty nester, starting school, grief, becoming ill, divorce, etc.) getting to the root of the problem and developing cognitive behavioral techniques that will get you back to stability. Obtaining therapy services can be intimidating but I can guarantee you that you are making the right decision. I possess bilingual abilities (Spanish), if it's your preference. You deserve your own space to heal and evolve. During our sessions, you will have a safe space where I will meet you with empathy and evidence-based practice. Let me help you.

Hai Nguyen

Hai Nguyen, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
20 years of experience
Virtual
I am honored to have the opportunity to meet you and explore areas of the heart, mind, and soul with you. I have fallen in love with studying "love" since a young age. It occurred to me that life gives us many paradoxes/contradictions such as: "Go through pain in order to heal". Since my awareness opened up to the vast internal world of the human mind, I strive to find the answer. In the combination of my teaching career (online Professor - Psychology, health/human services/Philosophy) and psychotherapy, I was given the gift of a special journey in revealing the invisible components in life - especially our internal world. I have personal and professional experience in diverse areas (gangs, addiction, violence, mood disorders, relationship dynamics, family connection, and many areas within the interpersonal/intrapersonal realm). In addition, I hold a special awareness for cultural sensitivity as well, and the assimilation process onto areas of adaptation and acculturation. I began viewing life with analytical, philosophical, and emotional perception at an early age as life became difficult since I could remember. When I had finally turned my life around and attended college, I was inspired by many individuals. From this, I earned a position with my previous professor as his T.A in stress management. From there, I moved onto graduate school after attaining my Psychology degree. During my Marriage and Family therapy program, I continued to teach. The last year of my studies I was honored to work as an intern at non-profit agency where I delivered therapeutic services to a vast array of different populations: Onsite therapist for a middle school and high school (pre-teens and teens). I also worked with couple's, anger management, domestic violence, family/individual therapy at the main facility. I was then given the chance to work as an online professor at Ashford University after completing my Master's degree, where I continued to do so until this day. After graduation I moved onto working with children with Autism Spectrum disorder (minority population) for over a year. Finally, I traveled into the work on dual diagnosis/addiction, where I started as a part-time therapist and moved towards becoming the primary therapist, and then the clinical director for the whole facility. From my journey, I have been given the privilege to uphold a vast array of experiences, even to the extent of online gaming addiction. My main focus now lies in areas of emotional conn

Taina Connelly

Taina Connelly, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
24 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing services in Florida and California. I graduated from Pace University and have been practicing as a clinician for 24 years. I am a strengths-based clinician with extensive training and experience in cognitive behavioral therapy. The decision to seek therapy can be hard and intimidating. My goal is to provide a space for exploration, reflection and change.

Marianna Birdsong

Marianna Birdsong, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings, I'm Marianna Birdsong, an LCSW situated in Southern California, offering telehealth services statewide. My practice specializes in aiding adults facing anxiety, stress, and life transitions through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Client-Centered Therapy, tailored to meet individual needs. I believe therapy should be customized for each client. I primarily employ CBT and Client-Centered Therapy but remain flexible to adapt techniques as required.

Bruce Izadi

(he/him)

Bruce Izadi, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am Afsheen Izadi, but I go by Bruce. I have been working as a Marriage and Family Therapist since 2013 and have worked with many different populations. Growing up, I observed people putting more emphasis on their physical wellbeing and ignoring their psychological and emotional wellbeing. I see that they are interconnected and we were only treating a part of the problem. I did some introspection and decided that I didn't want to simply "survive," but live a good life. Then I realized I don't just want this for myself--I want to make this possible for others.

Robert Ramos

Robert Ramos, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you and walk alongside with you in that process.

Jesse Ngu

(she/her)

Jesse Ngu, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
17 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
8861 Williamson...
My name is Jesse and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Master’s degree from Columbia University School of Social Work and have been in the mental health field since 2008. I understand that life can be challenging, as everyone balances different roles and responsibilities. As a therapist, my goal is to help you understand your struggles and empower you to overcome them.

Belen Gonzalez

Belen Gonzalez, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
I’m a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist who supports clients using Christian counseling, DBT skills, and narrative therapy. I offer a space where your story, faith, and mental health are respected and explored with care. As a first-generation Mexican-American and a woman of faith, I believe healing happens when people feel safe to be themselves—mind, body, and spirit. My journey into therapy was shaped by a deep commitment to faith, education, and a desire to provide culturally responsive care to underserved communities.

William Clymer

(he/him)

William Clymer, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hello. I am a licensed Clinical Mental Health Social Worker/Therapist with 30 years of experience. I have practiced in the states of California and Indiana, and received my graduate education through Purdue University and Indiana University. I enjoy working with individuals and couples. I particularly like to promote optimal living, in which healthy living habits, including health-promoting diet, exercise, spirituality, creative expression, and service to others, is practiced. My therapeutic orientation is holistic, with use of cognitive-behavioral therapies, hypnotherapy, eye-movement desensitization & reprocessing (EMDR), and humanistic-existential therapy. Currently I am providing therapy remotely through tele-mental health.

Ilhan Ali

(she/her)

Ilhan Ali, LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and have been practicing since 2020. I earned my Master of Arts in Clinical and School Counseling from Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, in May 2020. I incorporate a range of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and trauma-informed care. I tailor my approach to each client’s unique needs, helping them build resilience, improve relationships, and create meaningful change. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, traveling, reading, painting, journaling, and spending time with family and friends.

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.

Lori Menendyan

Lori Menendyan, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Master’s in Clinical Social Work from the University of Southern California. I also have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Cal State University Northridge. I have a extensive history with over 15 years of experience working with adults 18 and over with various mental health diagnoses. I like to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients to have a place to express their thoughts and feelings.

Jake Snyder

(he/him)

Jake Snyder, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
9 years of experience
Virtual
You have already taken your first step towards healing, and to you, I send the warmest welcome. My diverse background in the field includes a BA in Psychology from SUNY New Paltz as well as a master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of San Francisco. During and following my education, I have gained 9 years of direct comprehensive experience working with at-risk children, young adults, and families. In addition, this work in the community of San Francisco, along with my work with adult clients, has given me extensive experience treating a wide range of mental health diagnoses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma disorders, and personality disorders in the context of both individual treatment and family dynamics. I am looking forward to meeting you and witnessing your journey toward healing.

Ronena Summers

Ronena Summers, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. I earned my Master's Degree in Psychology Counseling from Mt. ST. Mary's University in Los Angeles and have been practicing for 15 years. I facilitate insight into problematic issues in your life transition towards a life worth living. My approach is empathetic, compassionate, and direct. I help recognize unhealthy patterns of thoughts and behaviors.

Katerina Sorrell

Katerina Sorrell, LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
10 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
23232 Peralta D...
Katerina Sorrell, MA, PPSC, LPCC, is a licensed psychotherapist and National Board Certified Counselor with over a decade of experience helping clients achieve healing, resilience, and personal growth. With a Master’s in Counseling from Chapman University and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from CSULB, she offers a strong academic foundation paired with compassionate, culturally responsive care. Katerina is fluent in English and Spanish and provides services to children, adolescents, and adults, drawing from evidence-based approaches such as CBT, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Her work spans working with Orange County Department of Education and various school districts in Orange County, California, where she has served as a School Counselor and Mental Health Practitioner. She specializes in crisis intervention, early identification of students in need, and the development of supportive mental health strategies. Katerina also volunteered with the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, demonstrating her deep commitment to mental health advocacy. In addition to her school-based work, Katerina provides individual therapy in private practice in Laguna Hills, California,, helping adults, military and youth clients manage challenges like anxiety, depression, family conflict, peer pressure, and trauma. Her unique background also includes career assessments, allowing her to support clients in discovering their strengths and life direction. Whether in schools, clinical settings, or the community, Katerina empowers her clients to navigate life’s challenges with confidence, connection, and hope.

Dr. Sepideh Birjani

(she/her)

Dr. Sepideh Birjani, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
4 years of experience
Virtual
As your therapist, I bring a caring and warm presence to every session, creating a safe and supportive space where you can feel truly heard and understood. At the same time, I’m goal-oriented and committed to helping you make meaningful progress toward the changes you want to see in your life. Together, we'll work at your pace to achieve growth and healing. Over the years, I've supported individuals from diverse backgrounds, helping them navigate their unique paths toward healing and personal growth. My approach is adaptable, compassionate, and rooted in evidence-based practices tailored to your specific needs.

Leslie Hodge

Leslie Hodge, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience, I provide compassionate, expert care for individuals, couples, and families navigating a wide range of mental health challenges. My practice encompasses all core mental health issues, with specialized expertise in supporting the military population, addressing addiction, healing with domestic violence, and working with survivors of child abuse. With a deep commitment to fostering resilience and empowerment, I tailor evidenced-based approaches to meet your unique needs, helping you build stronger relationships and a healthier future.

Dr. Sherry Glover

(she/her)

Dr. Sherry Glover, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
33 years of experience
Virtual
I am a straight-forward but empathic therapist, who also appreciates the same from her clients. I also believe in the social work mission of starting where the client is, so sessions are based upon that analogy. I have experience in many areas, including hospital, foster care, group homes, forensics, Veterans, home health, etc. I received my Masters oof Social Science Administration from Case Western Reserve Univerity, and my Doctorate of Psychology from California Southern University.

Cindy Nguman

(she/her)

Cindy Nguman, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! I'm Cindy Nguman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California, and I’m so glad you’re here. I work with clients all across the state through the convenience of Telehealth, creating a safe and supportive space, wherever you are. I specialize in supporting young adults and adults who are navigating life’s many ups and downs, whether that’s anxiety, stress, depression, dating, life transitions, identity exploration, or relationship challenges. You're not alone in what you're going through, and together, we’ll work to help you feel more grounded, confident, and understood. My style is warm, compassionate, and collaborative. I use a person-centered approach, which means I deeply value who you are and what you bring to the table. I also draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy to help us make meaningful progress toward your goals. Reaching out is a brave first step, and I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey. 💛

Michael Eide

Michael Eide, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
20 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a decade of experience specializing in treating individuals struggling with substance use disorders, trauma, and co-occurring mental health conditions. I work with dual-diagnosis clients, where I provide therapy to clients facing complex challenges, including addiction, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. My therapeutic approach integrates psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and motivational interviewing, helping clients uncover the underlying emotional and relational patterns that contribute to their struggles.

Randall Rubida

Randall Rubida, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
18 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) currently living in Pennsylvania, but was born and raised in California (Bay Area). I have been practicing as a Marriage and Family Therapist for 19 years, and am licensed in both states. I find therapy rewarding at all ages, but specifically enjoy working with adults and families. My goal is to help you build up the confidence you need to be successful.

Bonnie Blackman

(she/her)

Bonnie Blackman, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
25 years of experience
Virtual
Fearful, hopeless, or uncomfortable with yourself or your relationships. Pain is unavoidable, but I can help you carry that burden as we work towards solutions together. For 30 years , I worked with both children and adults .My aim is to create a nonjudgmental supportive space as we navigate your concerns and fears to find safe , secure and comfortable solutions

Maria Migliore

(she/her)

Maria Migliore, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
I’ve studied and practiced many methods. I like to be eclectic and work with you with what’s needed to get you back on track and feeling your best. I was a teacher for many years, then went for my masters in social work. Life has many twists and turns. Sometimes we can feel off balance or are suffering from depression or anxiety. We’ve all had our ups and downs and getting back on track and feeling our best is a goal I enjoy helping people achieve the life they want.

JC Pattugalan

(she/her)

JC Pattugalan, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello and welcome! My name is JC and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Southern California. I am currently a Marriage and Family Therapy Ph.D. candidate specializing in Medical Family Therapy at Northcentral University. I obtained my Masters in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University, Orange County. I operate from a combination of a Patient-Centered approach to therapy wherein I meet my patients where they are at while implementing a Biopsychosocial approach which allows me to comprehensively examine the interplay of biological, psychological, and social elements to understand health, illness, and the delivery of healthcare for my patients and their presenting concerns.

Ryan Jordan

(he/him)

Ryan Jordan, LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! Welcome to Grow! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor & hold a Masters of Science in Counseling Psychology from Hope International University. My academic curriculum specialized in: family systems, biopsychosocial thought, psychodynamic approaches, and person centered interventions. Therapeutically, I specialize in substance abuse counseling/addiction, as I am also certified as a substance use counselor and have worked in substance abuse treatment as a residential treatment technician before becoming a therapist. Further, I specialize in working with kids & adolescents who struggle with emotional defiance/conduct disorders & developmental disabilities. Further, I have experience in dual diagnosis treatment and exploring grief/loss issues. My style to therapy comes from a Rogerian, CBT, and Humanistic approach and embracing the “entire self”. My passion in being a therapist is to see and embrace progress, meeting people where they are at, being present during “aha” moments, and serve altruistically. Outside of being a therapist, I enjoy participating in ministry work, being active in recreational sports, volunteering as a crisis counselor & hospice volunteer. Some of my past work experience has included: working in special education as a substitute teacher, in the public-school sector as a tutor/instructional assistant, and as an in-home behavior interventionist working with kids who have developmental disabilities.

Shawna Reynolds

(she/her)

Shawna Reynolds, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Shawna Reynolds, and I have been in the social work field for 20 years, and the clinical field for over 15 years now. I was drawn to social work to specifically to help provide a sense of safety, security and stability for youth and families. I bring that same sense of safety, security and stability to my Therapy Practice where using a variety of CBT and TFCBT different modalities I now help adult clients identify areas of self-improvement so that they can make positive behavioral changes in their lives to experience more positive pleasurable emotions such as excitement, happiness and a healthy self-concept.

Ephraim Tokar

Ephraim Tokar, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
12 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 12+ years of experience. My specialties consist of psychosomatic illnesses, relationships, and career counseling. I received my Bachelors degree in Child Psychology, initially working with the teen/young adult population. I then transitioned over to adults as I pursued my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Whether it's individuals, couples, or the geriatric population, I'm happy to get to work with whomever comes my way. I do my best to facilitate a warm, trusting environment. Looking forward to speaking with you soon!

Heather Byrd

Heather Byrd, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in southern California. I work with individual adults only, utilizing Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) in treating those suffering from trauma/PTSD. I enjoy working with highly motivated individuals who are ready to address their trauma and work towards being free from the triggers, distress and patterns that are affecting their daily lives.

Priscella A.

(she/her)

Priscella A., LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
What I have learned about pain is this: it does not have to stay. This practice is private, because our work is sacred; truly, no one understands your pain the way you do. I will always remain a safe space to help shift that agony toward ease. Welcome. Any rating on this page is a reflection of a HIPPA violation left without reparations by the state of California and the Federal Government; it is not an accurate depiction of me but rather, my identity having been stolen after it was sold to the dark web after I experienced a break in via city wide attack given I am allied with the Queer community, the Immigrant community, the Black & Asian community, and the Single Mother Community. Additionally, I am Jewish. Please disregard.

Yesica Valenton

(she/her)

Yesica Valenton, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
4 years of experience
Virtual
As your therapist, I will provide a safe, nurturing, supportive, and confidential environment for you to share your life story with me. I’m truly passionate about mental health, I love being a therapist and I can tell you that God loves us very much and cares about our mental health well-being and happiness. As your therapist, I also care about you, and if its okay with you, I would love to support you in exploring a deeper relationship with Christ, and that you can learn healthier behaviors to improve relationships, learn healthier ways to communicate with others, explore your own needs and desires, and just feel happier. As your therapist, I want to support you and guide you in achieving emotional, behavioral, and relational well-being, and live your life with faith, peace, love, and joy. We will explore your strengths, coping mechanisms, resources, and God-given gifts to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life according to God's plan for you.

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 Gold Coast Health Plan (Medi-Cal)?

Yes! If you use Gold Coast Health Plan (Medi-Cal) you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Gold Coast Health Plan (Medi-Cal) 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.