Blue Shield Of California (Medi-Cal) Therapists in San Diego, CA

Accessing mental health care through Blue Shield of California (Medi-Cal) can provide crucial support without overwhelming costs, though finding available providers can sometimes be a challenge. With 13 verified therapists in San Diego, CA who accept Blue Shield of California Medi-Cal, you have access to experienced professionals offering therapeutic approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, and supportive counseling to help with concerns such as anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is accepting new clients and has availability soon, helping you connect with compassionate, in-network care covered by your Medi-Cal plan through Blue Shield of California.

Availability updated: 9/24/2025

Rated 4.7 stars out of 5, 87 ratings

Will Randall

LMFT, 12 years of experience

Open-minded
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Coping Skills
Couples Counseling
Self Esteem
+10
I am a dedicated and highly motivated client-focused Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. Therapy does not have to be dry, boring, or scary and it's okay to have fun in therapy. We all share in the HUMAN EXPERIENCE! So I may not have the same experiences as you, however, I know what feels like to make mistakes, experience hurt, love, loss, pain, and fear. I also know what it’s like to rebuild myself and have success again. Everyone experiences a range of thoughts, feelings, emotions, and situations that shape and mold us. Therefore, working with people, in their time of need motivates me to assist them in finding balance in their lives.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 10 ratings

Rick Kuchler

LMFT, 14 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Addiction
Mood Disorders
Self Esteem
+10
Hi, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist living in the San Francisco Bay Area. I received my Masters from Argosy University and have been practicing for over 15 years. I specialize in helping individuals, couples and families learn about and overcome problems they're experiencing by developing a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships. I've worked extensively with individuals and families experiencing substance use disorders, mood and anxiety problems, severe mental health challenges, family conflict, low self-esteem, and issues with life satisfaction. By using an integrative approach I provide personalized treatment to help my clients overcome their challenges and improve their mental well-being. My hope is I can help all my clients grow to become the best versions of themselves.
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Rated 4.4 stars out of 5, 7 ratings

Yair Torres

LCSW, 10 years of experience

Solution oriented
Intelligent
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
Hi there, I’m Yair. Destigmatizing access to mental health services and empowering individuals to take control of their lives is a passion of mine. I have been in the mental health field for over 10 years and offer an eclectic approach to addressing mental health needs. Whether it's difficulty with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, or substance use, you are not alone and there is hope. I am here to help. My theoretical orientation for services is primarily a combination of a psychodynamic approach combined with cognitive behavior theory. I am here to create a collaboration with you so that you can become your therapist and take control of your life. Individuals I have served have been treated through evidence-based practices that include Individual Cognitive Behavior Therapy (ICBT), Seeking Safety, Managing and Adapting Practices, Psychosis Early Intervention and Prevention and Crisis Oriented Recovery. I hold a Master of Social Work from the California State University of Los Angeles, a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from California State University of Los Angeles and an Associate of Science in Administration of Justice from El Camino Community College in Torrance, CA.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 30 ratings

Tara Tanaka, Ph.D.

LP, 18 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+4
Hello, I am a licensed Psychologist and have been working in the field for approximately 20 years. As a psychologist, I find fulfillment in helping individuals navigate, not only mental health challenges, but daily challenges in life by providing a supportive and compassionate environment. By utilizing an eclectic and collaborative approach we can find solutions together to overcome life's difficulties. Let me assist you in becoming the best version of yourself.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 147 ratings

India Diggins

LMFT, 8 years of experience

Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Racism
Self Esteem
Women's Issues
+1
I have worked in the mental health field for over 10 years, providing various services to adults and families. My approach is psychodynamic, relational, and insight-oriented with a holistic focus on the mind-body continuum. My style, while rooted in empathy, is also very direct. I will act as your mirror in order to help you see yourself more clearly. I also utilize positive psychology and strength-based approaches to help clients identify ways to increase their quality of life. Clients often walk away from therapy feeling heard, hopeful, and willing to attempt homework to improve their lives. *I specialize in trauma-informed depth psychotherapy for highly sensitive people.
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Rated 4.8 stars out of 5, 161 ratings

Maria Migliore

LCSW, 8 years of experience

Direct
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
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 to live the life they want.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 56 ratings

Lori Menendyan

LCSW, 10 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+1
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.
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Rated 4.8 stars out of 5, 72 ratings

Doris Muchirahondo

LMFT, 14 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Autism
+4
Hi, I’m Doris Anne Muchirahondo, and I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges with care and expertise. I specialize in supporting children/adolescents like you who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or misunderstood. For instance, one of my clients felt crushed by workplace stress and family conflicts, which led to emotional outbursts and strained relationships. Through therapy, we worked together to identify triggers, develop healthier communication skills, and create coping strategies that restored balance in their life. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, relationship issues, or emotional burnout, I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs. Let’s work together to move toward the fulfilling, connected, and joyful life you deserve.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 194 ratings

LaShonda Hill

LMFT, 8 years of experience

Authentic
Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

Life Transitions
Military/Veterans
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Hello, my name is LaShonda. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from a very small town in Georgia. However,I have lived in California since 2004. Prior to moving here I have lived in Washington state for 4 years. I joined the military at the dapper age of 18 and served my country for 13 years. I received a bachelor's in Legal Studies prior to leaving the military in 2012. After careful deliberation I decided that I no longer wanted to pursue a career in law and that I was more fascinated with human behavior. I then started a dual master's program in Counseling Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy in San Diego, California. I received my masters in 2015 and decided to take a step further and obtain my PhD in marriage and family therapy, with an emphasis on military families. I am currently a PhD candidate a Northcentral university where I am within the process of completing research on military relationships. I am a certified clinical trauma professional, trained in Sex-trafficking, Post traumatic stress, CBT, DBT as well as clinical family trauma.
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Rated 4.7 stars out of 5, 143 ratings

Meta L. Petty

LCSW, 12 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Depression
Family Conflict
Grief
+1
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.
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Rated 4.5 stars out of 5, 67 ratings

Melba Morales

LCSW, 23 years of experience

Empowering
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+13
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.
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Rated 4.7 stars out of 5, 75 ratings

Dr. Michaela Renee Johnson

LMFT, 14 years of experience

Solution oriented
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Couples Counseling
Sex Therapy
Anxiety
+3
Great to meet you! I believe the key to living a happy life, is learning how to speak your truth with grace & live a courageous life of authenticity. This requires checking in with yourself, often, exploring old patterns that aren’t serving you, tapping into grit & resiliency, and having a growth-oriented mindset. I'm an avid adventurer, having traveled to 25+ countries. I'm a licensed tailwheel (multiengine & seaplane) pilot who loves radial engines and vintage aircraft. In my spare time, you’ll find me flying, gardening & reading and chasing a house full of boys.
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Rated 4.1 stars out of 5, 138 ratings

Ephraim Tokar

LMFT, 20 years of experience

Direct
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Career Counseling
Men's Issues
Self Esteem
+16
Hi there, my name’s Ephraim Tokar. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience. My specialties consist of relationships, men’s issues, career counseling, and psychosomatic illnesses. I received my Bachelors degree in Child Psychology, working initially with the adolescent population before transitioning over to adults. I then received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Whether it's individuals or couples, 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 meeting with you soon!
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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 Blue Shield of California - Medi-Cal?

Yes! If you use Blue Shield of California - Medi-Cal you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Blue Shield of California - 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.