Surest Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Surest (formerly Bind) insurance can make accessing mental health support both convenient and affordable. With 60 verified therapists in California who accept Surest, you can filter by therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and interpersonal therapy to address concerns like anxiety, stress, or relationship challenges. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is currently welcoming new clients and has availability within the next 30 days, ensuring you receive timely, high-quality care covered by your Surest plan.

Availability updated: 7/5/2025

Tiffany J. Anderson

(she/her)

Tiffany J. Anderson, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
12 years of experience
Virtual
Note: I currently have slots available for individual therapy only at this time. Hi There, I'm a dedicated licensed marriage and family therapist. I work with college students and adults who recognize their challenges and are committed to the transformative journey toward a healthier, more satisfying life. With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I am skilled at providing empathy, creativity, and expertise in our work together. I enjoy collaborating with my clients in setting goals they envision, leading to an unapologetic and fulfilling existence.

Claudia Rivas

(she/her)

Claudia Rivas, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
24 years of experience
Virtual
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California, I specialize in providing individual therapy for individuals navigating depression, anxiety, and stress-related challenges. My therapeutic approach is rooted in creating a safe, supportive space where clients can explore, heal, and resolve their concerns through trauma-informed care and a strong racial justice lens. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Somatic Experiencing interventions to foster self-awareness, promote emotional healing, and support embodiment and mindfulness.

Angel Ouza

(she/her)

Angel Ouza, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
16 years of experience
Virtual
My aim is to foster a supportive and safe space for you to explore your feelings, thoughts and challenges. My work will help you recognize the power within you & source( whatever you believe in is totally okay in my world, I respect all) and trusting that it all works out the way it should! I have also faced my own life challenges, moved across the country to my dream states and more, which I believe has taught me to have more compassion and an open mind. Hence, why I always state I am a human first. One of my biggest strengths that helps foster a safe space for my clients, is my unconditional acceptance & operating from an unapologetic authentic framework, whilst helping them get to the level they desire. * I do offer a scaling rate for fees, please reach out for more information on that*

Giovanna Fattorini-Ocampo

Giovanna Fattorini-Ocampo, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I’m Giovanna. Whether you have been struggling with mental health problems most of your life or are experiencing some personal hardships and are looking for help, you have come to the right place. Be proud of yourself for reaching out for support. The journey might not be easy but the goal is to help you have a life that you find meaningful and fulfilling. I have experience working with adolescents, transitional age youth, adults and older adults dealing with mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, trauma, personality disorders, developmental disorders, and substance use as well as with those going through life transitions and struggling finding their way.

Denise Dugan

(she/her)

Denise Dugan, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Denise Dugan your Whyscounselor. We often question "why" when life hits us hard. We try to make sense of of what doesn't make sense but don't know how to find the answers. What if I told you the answers to the "whys" may not ever be answered but you can manage how those unanswered questions have affected you. Have you ever thought that if only this person would change or if I could stop feeling so anxious, frustrated, and sad things would be better? Life can be hard and challenges can steal our hope for changes to take place. What if I told you that there is one thing you can change that will affect everything else in your life and that is the way you see yourself? I want to help people dealing with anxiety, depression, and relationship issues and are motivated to do the work it will take. I want to help people find the tools to manage symptoms to cope with everyday life challenges and make the necessary changes in their behaviors and lives that reflect how they want to show up. I can help you develop a healthy relationship with the most neglected relationship you have and that is with yourself. Our work together will be discovering and developing pathways to a healthier relationship with yourself first in order to have healthier relationships with others and to make the necessary changes you need to make. Allow me to help you to manage the "whys" in your life. My educational background includes a M.S. in Counseling Psychology and a B.A. in Psychology from California Baptist University in Riverside, CA. I am trained in Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT or Tapping), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).

Anna Yang

(she/her)

Anna Yang, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm a Hmong-American therapist based in California with experience working with BIPOC and underserved communities of color. I also have experience working in Child Protective Services where I supported children and biological, foster, and adopted parents in the foster care system. I enjoy working with teens, young adults, and adults who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, relationships, or life transitions. My approach is empathetic and client centered. As needed, I also press and push for accountability to help clients work toward the change they desire.

Albert Xiong

(he/him)

Albert Xiong, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
***Please note that although Grow allows clients to schedule their own intakes, I require an initial free 15-minute phone consultation before treatment begins. The purpose of this call is to establish if we're a good fit in regard to style and goals. If we are not able to have that phone consultation at least one day before the intake, I will have to reschedule the intake. Thank you for understanding!*** Let's take a moment to acknowledge you being here! Thank you for finding your way to me, and I hope we can work together to help you make meaningful change in your life. I'm Albert Xiong (he/him/his), and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist with 6 years of experience providing affirming therapy services to a wide variety of clients across multiple settings. As a gay, Chinese American, myself, I get what it's like to navigate facets of our identities that can sometimes feel at odds. After a career of providing services to disenfranchised folks on Medi-Cal, students in a high-achieving high school in the Bay Area, and a small agency, I've found that fostering trusting and supportive relationships goes a long way in being a therapist. In the (virtual) therapy room, you can expect me to be an animated and relatively lighthearted therapist; I pride myself on bringing my genuine self into our therapeutic relationship, and my genuine self is someone who's curious and playful. Milton Erickson said, "patients have grim enough lives, let's not give them grim therapy, too." And while I resonate deeply with this quote, you can expect me to always supply the respect and compassion you deserve when you decide to share about something grim.

Dr. Gabe Veas

(he/him)

Dr. Gabe Veas, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
3 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Dr. Gabe Veas, and I find joy in helping individuals, couples, and families pursue their mental health goals in a non-blaming and non-shaming manner. My primary work has assisted clients in exploring their identities by dynamically utilizing online psychotherapy. I incorporated photos, music, and art into the treatment to help clients deconstruct their narratives. I am committed to lifelong learning by holding membership with several professional groups, including the American Association for Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists, which assists me in helping clients experience sexual health, freedom, and healing.

Tottyona Willingham

(she/her)

Tottyona Willingham, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi 😊,I am a BIPOC Licensed Clinical Social Worker . I specialize in working with individuals with a wide range of life experiences spanning from domestic violence, foster care , trauma, family conflict, life transitions culture and racism and QBTBPIOC LGBTQIA+ issues. I use strength-based and evidence based practices to view you from a whole person perspective and the environment.

Donny Youssef

(he/they)

Donny Youssef, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
As a compassionate and affirming therapist, I strive to create a warm, accepting space where clients feel seen, valued, and empowered in their unique identities. My practice is deeply rooted in trans-affirming and LGBT-inclusive care, ensuring that individuals from all walks of life are met with respect, validation, and understanding. Grounded in anti-oppressive principles and a strong commitment to social justice, I work collaboratively with clients to navigate life’s challenges while honoring their lived experiences. I believe that healing is not only personal but also deeply connected to the broader systems in which we live. My approach fosters self-compassion, resilience, and empowerment, helping clients cultivate meaningful change in both their inner worlds and their communities. Whether you are exploring your identity, seeking support for life’s transitions, or working through personal struggles, I am here to walk alongside you with warmth, authenticity, and unwavering support.

Crystal Cardenas

(she/her)

Crystal Cardenas, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hola! I’m a bilingual, Latina Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. All clients have the power to heal, and I provide a judgement free and compassionate space to help you navigate life’s challenges. Together, we’ll explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences to develop coping strategies that support your healing and growth. My goal is to empower you to build a healthy, meaningful life rooted in resilience and self-awareness.

DeVante Jewett

(he/him)

DeVante Jewett, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Do you have unresolved issues that impact your daily life? Do you struggle with coping when you’re stressed or have difficulties being kind to yourself? My name is DeVante and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in private practice called Asé Therapy and Social Work Services. I’m dedicated to helping facilitate the completion of your goals by using a holistic approach and identifying pieces of yourself that give you strength and hope. I help support clients in developing tools to manage their emotions and cope during difficult times. I integrate talk therapy from a healing perspective, which is centered on helping folks release unresolved issues and fostering positive visualizations. Asé Therapy and Social Work Services incorporates a social justice and disability justice framework while centering a non-judgmental & brave space. I’m happy to be part of your healing journey and I look forward to working with you!

Dr. Lavonda Mickens

(she/her)

Dr. Lavonda Mickens, LP - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
15 years of experience
Virtual
I am a native of Los Angeles and a Black woman. I’m a mother, a wife, a sister, a daughter and a proud community member. I believe that we all (as humans) are each others’ keeper. I practice with multiple methods but often view individuals through psychodynamic and cultural lenses. Any religious or spiritual background that prioritizes kindness is my jam.

Pooja S. Parashar

(she/her)

Pooja S. Parashar, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I’m Pooja Parashar, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with a Master’s from USC. I’m passionate about making therapy accessible & breaking the stigma of seeking help, especially with clients of color. My approach centers on building an empathic connection & meeting you where you are. I offer virtual & in-person services, specializing in trauma, communication issues, & anxiety, viewing clients holistically within their broader life context. I strive to create a healing environment by tailoring therapy to your needs. I am deeply committed to offering a supportive space where you can truly feel safe and heard.

Jesus Aceves

(he/him)

Jesus Aceves, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! My name is Jesus, I am a multi-state Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 5 years of experience working with adults. If you are struggling to cope with the challenges that are life, I am here to help you. I strongly believe that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all model, and because of this, I take a collaborative approach to meet my clients where they are to help get them where they want to be. My motto in life is, life is about making positive movements forward.

LaToya McLaughlin

LaToya McLaughlin, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, my name is LaToya. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving clients in California and New Jersey! I have 10 years of extensive experience in the mental health field; I am dedicated to empowering individuals and families to navigate their unique challenges. With a master's degree in social work and multiple certifications, I have developed a diverse skill set that allows me to provide tailored therapeutic support to adults and older adults.

Hector Madril

Hector Madril, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I'm Hector Madril, LMFT, Are you feeling worried all the time? Feeling down or depressed? Dealing with negative thinking that wont go away? Are you struggling to maintain a balance between responsibilities and everyday challenges? Let me help you! I will guide you to effectively manage anxiety, depression or elevated stress that may arise when dealing with past or present relationship issues, family conflict, divorce, separation, parenting difficulties, trauma, illness, loss, transitions or other life stressors. We will work with a humanistic approach, integrating evidence-based and mindfulness techniques that will bring a healthy balance and restore wholeness. I'm here for you! You don't need to tackle this alone. Let me assist you to bring about the changes and harmony you desire. I'll treat you with empathy and compassion while sharing the knowledge, skills, and strategies to help you conquer the obstacles on your life journey. Let's team up and work together!

Nica Gaona

(she/her)

Nica Gaona, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Do you have an an issue or concern that you're currently going through and want to be able to feel heard and understood? As a licensed Clinical Social Worker I can provide a safe and welcoming place where you can feel open to share those concerns or worries. Together we can work toward creating more balance in your life. I use a collaborative style to build on your strengths and resources and use them as the foundation of the helping process. I have 21 years experience working with children, families, and individuals as a social worker, eight of them as a licensed clinician! Prior to training as a therapist I worked as and advocate for children, youth and families in various community based non-profits. The peace I felt in helping lift burdens for individuals and families was the energetic drive that led me to the path of clinical social work! I consider it a privilege to be invited and entrusted with the task of walking alongside you during a challenging moment in your life. Seeing you grow and succeed is one of the greatest reward I could ask for!

Connie M Murcia

(she/her)

Connie M Murcia, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Understanding human behavior and how such shapes our lives is a key essential component to unraveling the complexities of who we are. As a seasoned Clinician, I work closely with my clients via joining them on their journey and provide an encouraging environment via a psychodynamic and holistic approach and assist those who are truly motivated to seeking change and mastery in their lives.

Erika Jackson

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

Helen Yum

(she/her)

Helen Yum, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Los Angeles based psychotherapist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, collaborative, culturally inclusive, nonjudgmental, LGBTQ+ affirmative and trauma-informed. I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and psychodynamic therapies to address a variety of problems including depression, interpersonal conflicts, difficulty with intimacy and relatedness, self-destructive or self-sabotaging behaviors, repeating painful life problems with little sense of control, life adjustments and transitions, grief and loss, and anxiety disorders. I welcome explorations of the intersectional impact of race, class, gender and sexuality on mental health. As a cancer survivor I am especially interested in the relationship between physical and mental health and supporting those living with chronic health conditions. As a lifelong learner, my recent areas of interest include sports and performance psychology. I completed a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Columbia University, a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Welfare from UC Berkeley, and a Master’s of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from The New School. I have specialized training and experience treating Post Traumatic Stress in military veterans and survivors of sexual abuse. In addition to my work as a therapist I provide training and clinical supervision at nonprofit housing programs in Los Angeles. I have served as a field instructor for social work graduate students from Cal State LA and USC. In 2023 I was appointed to serve on the ethics committee of the National Association of Social Workers, and currently serve on the medical board of advisors for Onco-Ballet, a nonprofit that provides dance classes to cancer patients and survivors.

Maureen Sanders

(she/her)

Maureen Sanders, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
19 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters Degree in Social Work from California State University Los Angeles. I have been working in mental health for over 35 years, and as a licensed professional for 14 years. My area of expertise is mental health and supporting clients to be able to adjust and cope better with a myriad of life stressors.

Deneen Maria Asuncion

(she/her)

Deneen Maria Asuncion, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
23 years of experience
Virtual
Do you have others around you who support you? Has there been any change in your sleep, physical activity, and/ or diet? How would you rate your current stress level? Lastly, is it a constant battle to maintain a semi-positive outlook on life due to unresolved grief and loss issues? * Current Certifications: 1. ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP). 2. Certified Mindfulness- Informed Professional (CMIP). • As a psychotherapist, I work towards building effective relationships with my clients. The care that I provide is collaborative, coordinated, and attainable. • My patients' and their family members' preferences, values, cultural traditions, and socioeconomic conditions are always respected. • My patients will consistently receive emotional support to relieve fear, behavioral issues, anxiety, and depression. • My qualities as a highly skilled psychotherapist are as follows: patient, solution-focused, empathetic, confident, observant, excellent listening skills, and respect for diversity. • My primary goal is empowering you to create or maintain a healthy sense of emotional, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. My specialties are as follows: 1. ADHD - Children, Adolescents, and Adults 2. Women's issues 3. Men's Issues 4. Abortion, Pregnancy Loss, Miscarriage, and Infertility 5. Stress Management 6. Anxiety Disorders 7. Depression 8. Sleep Disturbances 9. Relationship Problems 10. Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Anxiety, and Phobias 11. Fully Remote Work/ Hybrid Workers 12. Stay-at-Home Mom/ Dad 13. Individuals with Disabilities such as Chronic Pain, Dwarfism (Children/ Adolescents/Adults), Musculoskeletal Injuries, Cancer, Blind, Immune-Disorders, Down Syndrome, Specific Learning Disorders, Epilepsy, etc. 14. Child and Adolescent Mental Health Issues 15. Addiction and Substance Misuse Issues You deserve a consistently safe place to heal and grow. In our sessions, I will join you with compassion and evidence-based practices - so that you can get through this very difficult time in your life. * Please note that I do not write the following letters: Letters for Emotional Support Animal (ESA) or Letters for Court-related matters.

Cheryl James

Cheryl James, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
Hello there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience. I graduated with both a BSW and MSW from San Diego State University and received my formal trauma training at Rady's Children's Hospital. Throughout my experience, I have worked in many capacities including private psychotherapy practice, teaching social work courses at SDSU, medical social work, home health, managed care and with a full range of treatment specialties. I appreciate using a strengths-based approach within a cultural context to best understand the unique needs of my clients.

Davis Lo

(he/him)

Davis Lo, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! My name is Davis Lo and I am currently a Licensed Therapist. Currently accepting new clients for weekly or biweekly sessions! Do you feel stuck or lost? Almost like no matter what you do you cannot get out of your current situation? Are you having difficulty coping? Sometimes life happens and it can be overwhelming to deal with everything. Do you need someone who will listen, be compassionate, and non judgemental? Well look no further! By working together, your life can be easier. You will be able to identify your stressors, thought patterns, and challenges that gets in your way of moving forward in life. You will be able to live your best life according to your own values and what is important to you. You will learn skills to be able to manage your stressors and find what is important to you. I have worked with various age groups from teens to older adults that struggle with psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, and social issues. As a therapist, I focus on helping clients understand their own challenges and working together to find a solution that works for them in a safe environment. In addition, I focus on helping clients find their inner strengths while working on helping them develop a meaningful and fulfilling life.

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 Surest (formerly Bind)?

Yes! If you use Surest (formerly Bind) you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Surest (formerly Bind) 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 Racism?

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need. For example, your selected specialty, Racism, is filtering therapists in California that work with patients with similar concerns.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

What to expect during your first session?

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs.

Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center. Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.