Connect with Therapists who accept Optum - Medicare Advantage in San Diego, CA

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+ therapists
A headshot image of Janet Phillips

Janet Phillips

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LCSW
18+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Janet Phillips, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Janet has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from San Diego State University.

California
Specialties
ADHD
Aging
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Curious

I enjoy helping people move forward with their lives, learning how to adapt and make better choices for themselves. My goal is to help clients realize that they are worthy of being liked and loved by others and to like and love themselves.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ruth Villasenor

Ruth Villasenor

LCSW
8+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Ruth Villasenor, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Ruth has a Masters of Social Work from California State Sacramento.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Style
Directive
Attuned
Affirming

I use Cognitive-Based Therapy and believe in a collaborative approach to identifying goals and a treatment plan.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Wendy Thomas

Wendy Thomas

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW
4+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Wendy Thomas, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Wendy has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Walden University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Depression
Relapse Prevention
Stress
Substance Use
Style
Responsive
Gentle
Supportive

I am licensed in California and Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & depression. I believe that you are the expert on your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Christopher Stone

Christopher Stone

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
3+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Christopher Stone, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Christopher has a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Outcome-oriented
Warm
Supportive

I feel that it is helpful to utilize training and experience along with empathy, compassion, and optimism to assist in identifying and working towards goals related to growth and improvement in mental health. I have gotten positive feedback about supporting folks with anxiety and like to assist clients in this area, as well as depression.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jennifer Johnson

Jennifer Johnson

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LCSW
9+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Jennifer Johnson, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Jennifer has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from San Diego State University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Spirituality
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Warm
Collaborative

Warm greetings! I am honored you are here. I have a mind, body, energy, and emotional approach to my practice. I identify closely with my Osage heritage and Native American background.

Available virtually

A headshot image of William Hale

William Hale

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
2+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like William Hale, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

William has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy, School Counseling from St Mary's College of California.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Outcome-oriented
Approachable
Collaborative

I'm passionate about supporting teens, couples, families, and adult individuals. I strive to create a safe space using warmth, humor, and unconditional positive regard where clients can be their true, authentic selves.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Angel Vargas, LMFT

Angel Vargas, LMFT

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Angel Vargas, LMFT, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Angel has a Master of Science (MS) in Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy from University of Phoenix.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Alcohol Use
Anxiety
Depression
Men's Issues
Style
Insightful
Candid
Empowering

Whether you're seeking healing, pursuing personal growth, or navigating a challenging life transition, therapy can be a powerful vehicle to help you reach your desired destination. The path may not always be easy, but it can be deeply rewarding—and I would be honored to support you every step of the way.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Sergio Ibanez

Sergio Ibanez

LCSW
3+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Sergio Ibanez, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Sergio has a Master of Science, Master of Social Work, MSW, LCSW at University of New England.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Divorce
Parenting
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Directive
Gentle
Supportive

I provide support and guidance for individuals, couples, and families. I work with diverse populations and use approaches including EMDR, CBT, DBT, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy to address your unique needs.

Available virtually

A headshot image of P K Phillips

P K Phillips

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
2+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like P K Phillips, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

P K has a Master of Science (MS) in Management of Library and Information Science from University of Southern California and a Masters of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Loyola Marymount University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
LGBTQIA+
Older Adult
Style
Exploratory
Gentle
Collaborative

As a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist, I work collaboratively with individuals, youth, families, and couples on their therapeutic, relational, and personal goals. I bring an eclectic, humanistic approach to supporting clients through life's challenges.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jared Gaurano

Jared Gaurano

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Jared Gaurano, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Jared has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marital and Family Therapy from Alliant International University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Spiritual
Collaborative

The primary topics I work on with my clients are grief, anxiety, trauma, and depression. I use Compassion-Based, Faith-Based, CBT, and Narrative therapy to guide my clients toward healing.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Shannon Oliveira

Shannon Oliveira

LMFT
9+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Shannon Oliveira, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Shannon has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Curious

My goal as your therapist is to help you create a meaningful and enjoyable life. Whether you come to therapy to manage a pre-existing condition or diagnosis, or are looking to improve the relationships in your life, I am happy to assist you until you get to where you would like to be.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Kurt Helfrich

Kurt Helfrich

LMFT
9+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Kurt Helfrich, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Kurt has a Master of Arts (MA) from National University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Curious

I started in the field mainly working with children. Currently, I see individuals 18 years of age and older, as well as couples.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ileana Gallegos

Ileana Gallegos

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
5+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Ileana Gallegos, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Ileana has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Mental Health from University of Southern California.

Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Candid
Supportive

I'm passionate about facilitating healing by collaborating with you to reach your goals. I believe in creating safe spaces without judgment. I'm excited you've decided to take this next step in your journey, allowing me to help you become a healthier, stronger version of yourself.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Athena Merianos

Athena Merianos

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
5+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Athena Merianos, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Athena has a Master of Science (MS) in Counseling/MFT from University of Phoenix.

San Gabriel, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Life Transitions
Style
Practical
Gentle
Supportive

Individuals and Couples Therapist. Navigating our way through life can be tough, and sometimes all it takes is some outside perspective to help us figure things out, and they can lend us that perspective. Sometimes it takes a lot more work to feel better, and I have the tools, experience, empathy, patience, and understanding to assist you.

Because Athena is honestly a great therapist, she’s very patient and is very caring about helping me.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Taina Connelly

Taina Connelly

LMFT
13+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Taina Connelly, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

Northridge, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
First Responders
Grief
Mood Disorders
Style
Responsive
Warm
Collaborative

I work with individuals and families experiencing chronic mental illness, grief, and dual diagnosis challenges. My goal is to provide a safe space where you can process emotions and thoughts, and learn skills to manage symptoms and situations without debilitating distress.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Victor Buechler

Victor Buechler

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
9+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Victor Buechler, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Victor has a Master in Counseling (MC) School from Based Family Counseling - California State University, Los Angeles.

Los Alamitos, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Candid
Motivational

I'm Victor Buechler (pronounced 'bewkler'). I see my role as being the facilitator of your change, the witness to your growth, and the temporary container for your pain. I work best with individuals who are looking for insight and solutions to overcome the barriers of their depression, anxiety, or other challenges.

Available virtually

A headshot image of William Huntley

William Huntley

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LCSW
8+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like William Huntley, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

William has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Sacramento.

California
Specialties
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Transgender Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Outcome-oriented
Candid
Supportive

My main goal as a therapist is to help you see the truth of who you are and what you can be. I work with clients to unpack the challenges that brought you to therapy in a safe way, so we don't create further emotional or mental pain.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Larry Smith

Larry Smith

LCSW
4+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Larry Smith, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Larry has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, San Bernardino.

Los Angeles, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Warm
Collaborative

I bring over 25 years of experience in mental health, ranging from addiction to trauma. I believe in a strength-based approach in providing clients support because everyone has skills, talents, and abilities to tap into to assist them in overcoming life's challenges.

Larry has been super helpful, understanding and an active listener. I am glad to have him as my therapist

Available virtually

A headshot image of Rachelle Bodle

Rachelle Bodle

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
7+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Rachelle Bodle, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Rachelle has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage & Family Therapy from Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

Pasadena, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Candid
Affirming

I help adults who grew up parenting their parents, shouldering perfectionism, people-pleasing, and caregiver roles reclaim their true selves and build lasting resilience. I provide trauma-informed support for survivors of sexual abuse and create an affirming, nonjudgmental space for LGBTQ+ clients.

She's honest and kind, with no nonsense. Yes, I am a survivor of trauma, but I have learned to overcome seeing myself as a victim. I never thought I would be in a place where I can set boundaries without feeling guilty and share my past without pain and tears. I am now an advocate for mental health, domestic violence, and sexual trauma. I have been able to achieve all of this by learning how to care for myself through therapy.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Catherine "Kati" Butcher

Catherine "Kati" Butcher

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Catherine "Kati" Butcher, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Catherine "Kati" has a Master of Education (MED) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Cambridge College.

Palo Alto, CA
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Gentle
Curious

I'm so glad you're here. Taking the first step towards healing and growth takes courage, and I'm honored to be part of your journey. I create a safe, supportive space where children, teens, individuals, couples, and families can find hope, healing, clarity, and connection.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Herschel O'Brien

Herschel O'Brien

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LPCC
2+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Herschel O'Brien, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Herschel has a Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology from LPCC - Chapman University.

Visalia, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Gentle
Collaborative

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Visalia, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I support individuals' pursuit of understanding (self and relationship) and reaching their true potential.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Parsi Kim

Parsi Kim

LMFT
15+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Parsi Kim, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Parsi has a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology from Phillips Graduate Institute.

Riverside, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Collaborative

I provide a supportive space where clients feel heard—especially during times of uncertainty or change. I work collaboratively with you to help make sense of your experiences, manage emotional challenges, and move toward a more grounded and authentic version of yourself.

She's a great listener and helps me to stop and see things from a more helpful perspective.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Akiko Takeda

Akiko Takeda

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
12+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Akiko Takeda, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Akiko has a Master of Science (MS) from California State University, Dominguez Hills and a Masters of Arts (MA) from University of Illinois - Chicago.

Redondo Beach, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Panic Attacks
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Collaborative

Our lives are built on relationships, which is why many people struggle with relational challenges that lead to depression and anxiety. I invite you to join me in a safe space to think about your problems, feel lighter, discover your thinking habits, learn new ways of communication, and uncover strengths you've never noticed before.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Kimberly Brooks

Kimberly Brooks

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
8+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Kimberly Brooks, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Kimberly has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Health/Mental Health from Southern Illinois University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Stress
Style
Directive
Candid
Motivational

I’m a trauma-informed psychotherapist specializing in anxiety, emotional overwhelm, spiritual fatigue, and life transitions. I’m Kimberly M. Brooks, LCSW, and I help people who feel overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally drained find clarity, peace, healing, and emotional restoration.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Terry Fowler

Terry Fowler

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
8+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Terry Fowler, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Terry has a Master's in Counseling from University of Phoenix.

Riverside, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Eating Disorders
Self Esteem
Stress
Style
Outcome-oriented
Warm
Collaborative

I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in eating disorders, addiction medicine, anxiety, stress, and depression. The approaches I use are Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy to help clients gain the skills to help themselves.

Available virtually

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