Supportive Therapy Therapists in California

Supportive Therapy provides empathetic and validating mental health support, creating a safe space for individuals to express their feelings, reduce stress, and build coping skills. Often used as a companion to other therapeutic approaches, supportive therapy offers comfort and reassurance through life’s challenges. With 29 supportive therapists in California, clients can find compassionate, nonjudgmental support tailored to their needs. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is currently accepting new clients, with availability in the coming weeks for timely, affirming care.

Sarah Shead

(She/Her)

Sarah Shead, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCSW
2 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, my name is Sarah and I am an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) in CA. I work with adults and the geriatric population, specializing in managing anxiety and depression through a variety of therapeutic modalities. I focus on client-centered therapy and utilize the empowerment model. My approach varies based on the needs of the client. I frequently work with clients through CBT, supportive therapy and strengths-based therapy.

Raven P.

(she/her)

Raven P., LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$140/session
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
I believe that mind, body, and spirit are all interconnected. Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It's about how you drive, not where you are going. I am here as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in practice since 2016, I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, Grief & Loss, Life Transitions, Relationships, Faith-based Counseling, and Parenting. I am proud of you for taking the first step towards therapy. Change can be hard and taking this first step is not always easy. I aim to provide a safe, judgment free space to anyone looking for help and wanting positive change. We will address your thoughts and feelings at a pace that works best for you. My therapy style is supportive, reassuring, accepting, and genuine. In our therapeutic relationship, I will provide tools you need to reach your goals. You will do all the heavy lifting, but I will be here to support and encourage change.

Judith Leitch

(she/they)

Judith Leitch, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$180/session
LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
I'm here to provide an encouraging experience where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly while working towards your goals. As a provider, I am supportive, validating, and focused on you. Within this framework, I am also honest and direct, qualities I find many people appreciate in a therapeutic relationship. I think of therapy as a tool that can get you to a new way of thinking or out of a rut. Therapy can also be hard work, but that doesn't mean it has to be a hard time. I've been in the field long enough to know how normal having problems is. The people I work with appreciate that therapy can be a place to laugh, cry, and sometimes both at the same time. Life is weird, but having help can help.

Leeat Fitzer

Leeat Fitzer, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Lincensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 10 years of experience specializing in helping adults and adolescents navigate challenges related to anxiety and depression. I also work extensively with women experiencing postpartum mental health concerns, offering compassionate support during this pivotal time. My approach is centered in fostering a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, gain insight into their struggles, and develop practical coping strategies. By empowering clients to address the root cause of their concerns and build resilience, I strive to make a lasting impact on their emotional well-being and overall quality of life.

Alyssa Gohata

(she/her)

Alyssa Gohata, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$90/session
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in the San Francisco Bay Area, California. I received my Masters in Social Work from California State University, Long Beach in 2021. I help teens and young adults navigate stress related to relationships (family, friends/peers, romantic relationships) as well as school and work stress. I also help individuals dealing with anxiety and depression to manage their symptoms and develop positive coping skills.

Amoreena Berg

Amoreena Berg, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LMFT
24 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed MFT who has been in practice for over 15 years. I have extensive experience treating a wide variety of issues and psychological disorders from the most mild to the most severe. I work with adults and adolescents. My approach is warm, positive and compassionate. I can help you to achieve your personal goals, more effectively manage your emotions and stressors and develop strategies that will promote positive self-growth and lead you to and a more satisfying life. I have worked in a wide variety of settings in addition to my private practice including schools, residential homes and outpatient treatment facilities. My specialties include anxiety and depressive disorders, stress management, crisis counseling, grief counseling, and relationships.

Luke Barrett

(he/him)

Luke Barrett, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Luke is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a background in emergency medical services, hospital emergency departments, and health care for the homeless. He is a United States Coast Guard veteran located in California. Luke has a bachelor's degree in psychology, a master's degree in social work, and a master's degree in public administration. Luke believes in solution focused therapy, positive psychology, harm reduction, and cognitive behavioral therapy to improve quality of life and achieve goals. In therapy, Luke emphasizes healthy habit development, consistent focus on goals, and accountability.

Tasfia Abhadhan

(she/her)

Tasfia Abhadhan, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm Tasfia, I'm a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with a passion to help individuals reach their personal goals. I have over 10 years experience providing individual therapy, family work and case management for children, adolescents and adults. My approach to therapy is cohesive and client-centered. I assist individuals identify their strengths and barriers through individual therapy, behavioral rehabilitation, and collateral support within a multicultural community.

Mutya Mendiola

(she/her)

Mutya Mendiola, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! My name is Mutya. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Southern California. With over five years in the field, I've had the privilege of supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds experiencing anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues. I enjoy working with young adults experiencing significant life transitions such as starting college, entering the workforce, or exploring new relationships. Life transitions can be exciting, but they can also bring a lot of other emotions, such as anxiety, insecurity, and confusion. My goal in treatment is to provide a safe and supportive space where clients can comfortably share their experiences and navigate their challenges with confidence to help them thrive in their professional and personal lives. Collaboration is at the heart of my practice. We'll work together to explore your experiences, identify your goals, and develop strategies to help you thrive. I believe that each individual has unique strengths and perspectives that should be utilized in their journey toward growth and healing. I'd love to help you learn new skills, as well as utilize your strengths, to overcome your challenges and reach your goals.

Kimura Washington

(she/her)

Kimura Washington, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCSW
2 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Kimura (Key-mu-ra), a Southern Californian native and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have had the distinct pleasure of providing client-centered care to individuals in Long Beach, Los Angeles, and surrounding cities and in partnership (case management, care coordination) with Veterans, Caregivers, Geriatric populations, Youth aging out of foster care, and individuals who were homeless. My foundation and blueprint are my faith, worship, and prayer; I provide Christian Counseling, and utilize CBT, Solution Focused, Strength Based, and Positive Psychology methods to support Clients in their personal journey to self-actualization, acceptance, and empowerment.

Maritza Grau

Maritza Grau, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LCSW
35 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California with over 35 years of experience. I earned my master's degree from Barry University in Miami, Florida and have been dedicated my career to helping adults. I navigate PTSD, Depression and Life Challenges empowering them to become the best selves. I am fully bilingual in English and Spanish and have had the privilege of working in diverse settings across Florida, Puerto Rico and California. My professional experience includes university teaching, facilitating workshops and webinars, and serving as a consultant in various roles.

Stephanie Hardison

(she/her)

Stephanie Hardison, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Bienvenidas! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and Colorado. I serve my clients with a pro-body and anti-diet lens which means I will actively support you in dismantling fatphobia. Along with providing fat-positive wellness, I offer a nurturing space to process career changes, burnout, and becoming a cycle breaker within the BIPOC community. As a first-generation daughter of immigrants, I aim to create a safe and nurturing space with folks who are either new to therapy or are returning.

Subha Smith

Subha Smith, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$150/session
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master's Degree in Social Work from Azusa Pacific University, as well as a Master's degree in Psychology from California State University Los Angeles. I have 10+ years experience working in the mental health field, including both in an inpatient psychiatric setting and a community based mental health setting. I have worked with adults of all ages, from diverse ethnocultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, and/or the LGBTQ+ community. My experience includes working with individuals with various issues such as: anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationship issues, dual diagnosis, grief counseling, trauma, and women's Issues. My passion for mental health began in college when I realized there are disproportionately few South Asian mental health professionals. Having immigrated from India to the United States as a child, I have experienced first hand how attempting to acculturate can significantly impact one's mental health and overall wellbeing.

Diane L. Foster

(she/her)

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

Dr. Nikki R Ruffin

(she/her)

Dr. Nikki R Ruffin, LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LPCC
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, my name is Dr. Nikki Ruffin. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Illinois a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California and a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Indiana. I have my doctorate in Counseling and Education and I've been in practice for about 20 years. I work mostly with adults with anxiety, depression, grief, and loss and trauma, as well as life transitions and relationship issues.

Deb Menet

(she/her)

Deb Menet, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$180/session
LCSW
18 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
611 Veterans Bo...
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience and currently hold a role at Stanford Medicine Children’s Health. I previously served in various roles at a local non-profit including Clinical Director. I have participated in academic research and have presented at various national conferences on the topic of mental health. I work from a trauma-informed and multi-theoretical perspective and value providing LGBTQIA+ affirming care. I support women going through life transitions, people impacted by medical conditions, and healthcare workers. I provide psychotherapy as well as therapeutic yoga.

Lainie Popp

(She/Her)

Lainie Popp, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
I work with people who wonder why life feels a lot harder for them compared to everyone else. My clients often feel lonely or disconnected, and like they never really fit in. This might come from being neurodivergent, growing up in a high-control religion, living in a rigid family system, or feeling more self-aware than those around them. I work with care, curiosity, and creativity, using approaches rooted in mindfulness and evidence-based practices. My goal is to help you reconnect with your own inner wisdom so you can move through life with clarity, confidence, and compassion—for yourself and for others.

Diana K. Gruhl

(she/her)

Diana K. Gruhl, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Diana Gruhl, LCSW-C, and I am a very skilled, compassionate, and caring therapist (licensed in MD and CA) with years of experience providing counseling for adults and seniors. I graduated from CSULB-Long Beach in 2010 with a Master of Social Work degree and Graduate Student Honors Award. I then worked for years as an Associate Clinical Social Worker under clinical supervision in a variety of settings, and then passed the clinical exam and received my license in CA in 2019 and MD in 2020. I love to work with women (ages 21 - 65+ ideally), to help them discover and explore their feelings, uncover and transform limiting beliefs and behaviors, navigate life challenges, rediscover inner strengths and wisdom, develop effective coping skills and resources, and move toward their goals. I also help women cope with relationship issues, health conditions, depression, anxiety, panic, grief, concentration/attention issues, meaning and purpose inquiries, and self-esteem/confidence issues. In addition, I provide senior citizens support with issues of aging, caregiver issues, long-term planning, and assistance with resources. As a client-centered, collaborative therapist, I create a customized treatment plan with each client and use appropriate therapeutic methods in each session as indicated. The methods I am trained in include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Emotional Freedom Technique, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic methods, Compassionate Communication, Strengths-Based, and Solution-Focused Therapies. I also use expressive arts and reminiscence therapies when appropriate. I am here to support you in your journey and look forward to working with you to meet your goals. Please call Grow to schedule an intake appointment today at 786-755-1863. I currently have limited availability for sessions, so call to schedule an appointment soon. My schedule will be opening up more soon.

Justin C.

Justin C., LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$80/session
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Justin has been working in the field of behavioral healthcare since 2014. He began his career as a mental health technician within a locked psychiatric hospital in Los Angeles, supporting two units of adolescent and adult psychiatric patients. It was this experience that solidified Justin’s passion for providing compassionate, client-centered care in the mental health, and co-occurring dual diagnosis treatment field. Justin has done extensive work providing direct client care as a facilitator of individual, group and family therapy providing crisis intervention and mental health services to youth and adults identified as at-risk in Los Angeles. Justin has served various treatment programs in Los Angeles and the Bay Area. Over the years, Justin’s roles have included Residential Counselor, Case Manager, Primary Therapist, and Program Director. Justin Cowell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). An alumnus of the University of Arizona and San José State University, where he earned his Master’s degree (MSW), has experience in mental health, counseling, and community-based settings. Before joining the Grow team, Justin worked with diverse populations and adolescents. He enjoys incorporating CBT, mindfulness, and positive psychology into his sessions and is eager to bring these modalities to work with the recovery population at Grow Therapy. Born and raised in Inglewood, CA, Justin loves all LA sports teams, Lakers, Dodgers, Kings, and Rams, and loves going to games. Both personally and professionally, Justin is a proponent of self-care, having fun, and trying new things, and is excited to be a member of the Grow team.

Debbie Mancillas

Debbie Mancillas, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of California, where I was born, raised and educated. I have numerous years of experience working with children, teens and adults who are struggling with challenges in their lives. I excel at helping client's recognize their self worth and strengths by providing a supportive and strength based practice with a bit of humor. I have worked with clients navigating divorce, child welfare system, adoptions, divorce/child custody, educational issues, anxiety, mild depression and relationship issues.

Jennifer Drewno

Jennifer Drewno, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$90/session
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I have been practicing for almost eight years. I support my clients dealing with a variety of issues, such as Anxiety and Self-Esteem. I have enjoyed watching my clients grow and transform their lives. My clients report becoming more productive, having less stress, and an improved sense of well-being.

Kayla Corazao

Kayla Corazao, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
Change is hard, not having the tools, direction and support make the process even harder. I can help you identify areas that may be keeping you stuck. I also provide wellness and behavioral health coaching in addition to traditional therapy. The atmosphere that is created in the therapy session is one of warmth, safety, and acceptance. I have a straightforward, interactive approach to treatment. I am passionate about my work and strongly believe in the healing benefits of therapy. Reach out to me, I’d love to help you help heal, connect, & thrive. Together we can create the life you want.

Esther Bang

Esther Bang, LP - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$225/session
LP
22 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience in helping clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, cultural issues, life transitions, relationship issues, and their sense of identity. My goal is to help you explore obstacles to your growth, foster insight, and provide support and guidance to help you make necessary changes to alleviate emotional pain, gain self-esteem, and improve the quality of your life.

Armine Manukian

(she/her)

Armine Manukian, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LCSW
16 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a Licensed Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my Master's from the University of Southern California. I have provided mental health services for 16 years, helping clients with a wild range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, grief/loss, chronic illness, postpartum, problematic relationships, behavioral issues, personality traits and life/career transitions in diverse populations of adults. Given my experience, I have developed a therapeutic approach based on clients' needs. I combine evidence-based interventions with cognitive and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a supportive environment where clients openly and safely express their experiences, emotions, and thoughts with acceptance and non-judgment.

Sheilly (pronounced Shelly) Arora

Sheilly (pronounced Shelly) Arora, LP - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$250/session
LP
18 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Sheilly Arora, and I am a practicing psychologist for almost 20 years. I love what I do and find it a privilege to be of help to others. I am fluent in several Evidence Based treatments including and not limited to treatments for depression, anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia and PTSD. While originally from the East coast, I did both my internship and post-doctoral training in California. I have been here ever since and feel lucky to be able to call California my home.

SUSAN CHINSKEY

SUSAN CHINSKEY, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
41750 Rancho La...
Welcome! I'm Susan Chinskey, LMFT Take a deep breath—you’ve already taken the first step toward prioritizing your mental well-being. I know that starting therapy can feel empowering, overwhelming, or even a little scary, and I want you to know that you’re not alone in this journey. I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and self-care challenges. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, creating a safe space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of judgment. Whether you're looking to develop healthier boundaries, improve communication, or gain clarity in your personal growth, I’m here to help. Therapy is about more than just coping—it’s about transformation. If you're ready to take that next step toward the life you deserve, I’d be honored to walk alongside you. Let’s begin when you’re ready. I'm in Rancho Mirage, California.

Selam Gebrekristos

Selam Gebrekristos, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$125/session
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience, dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families on their journey toward healing and personal growth. With a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, I provide a compassionate, judgment-free space where clients can explore life’s challenges and work toward meaningful change. I specialize in helping clients navigate relationship dynamics, life transitions, anxiety, and personal development, empowering them to break through barriers and create fulfilling lives. I aim to offer understanding, support, and practical tools to help clients build stronger connections and find clarity in their lives.

Ronald Plumlee

(he/him)

Ronald Plumlee, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$140/session
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters from the Portland State University in Portland Oregon and have been practicing for 4 years as a licensed clinician. I help adults and young adults struggling with mental health and addiction disorders to become the best versions of themselves. I have been employed in mental health inpatient and outpatient agencies and addiction programs with effective results.

Paul Ellingsen

(he/him)

Paul Ellingsen, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LMFT
30 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed psychotherapist and hold bachelor’s and master’s degrees in psychology. I have over 30 years experience and have performed thousands of hours of counseling. I have worked across a broad spectrum of mental health settings including private practice, CPS, Residential Treatment Centers, substance abuse facilities, psychiatric hospitals, and conducted psychiatric evaluations in a hospital ER. I've seen it all and dealt with it all. My life’s work has been dedicated to assisting people overcoming problems, and living happier, more rewarding and fulfilling lives.

Explore more California Therapists by:

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.