How to find the right therapist in San Francisco, CA

When choosing a therapist in San Francisco, CA, it's best to reflect on what you’re looking for and ask yourself which of the following criteria are most important to you: Do they accept your insurance? Do you need a therapist who specializes in a specific mental health concern such as depression, anxiety, or trauma? Are you looking for someone to work with you individually? Or are you looking for someone to support you as a couple or family? Would you be more comfortable partnering with a therapist of a certain race, gender expression, sexual orientation, religious, or cultural background?

Can I use my insurance?

Yes! Therapists on the Rula platform are in-network with most major insurance plans. Rula patients typically pay $15 per session, although your individual cost may vary based on your insurance benefits and deductible. We’ll work with your insurance to confirm your estimated per-session cost before your first appointment. Ready to get started? Click here to browse available therapists who accept your insurance.

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

There’s no right or wrong reason to start therapy. Whether you’re seeking help navigating a life transition or managing symptoms of anxiety or depression, therapy is an effective treatment for many types of concerns – all you need is an open mind and a general sense of what you’d like to explore with a therapist. Still unsure? Head to our blog to learn more.

How soon can I meet with a therapist?

Therapists in Rula’s network are available to meet as soon as tomorrow. Click here to explore therapists and book your first session in minutes.

What should I consider when choosing a therapist?

It depends on your personal preferences and goals. Whether you’re seeking a therapist who specializes in certain mental health conditions, shares your ethnic background, or is available to meet at your preferred time – Rula makes it easy to search and filter by what matters most to you. If you don’t feel like your first choice was a match, don’t worry – we’ll help you switch to a different therapist in our network. Check out our blog post for more pointers on finding your best-fit therapist.

How do I know if I need therapy or psychiatry?

If you’re experiencing severe symptoms that interfere with your daily functioning, you may want to consider starting with a psychiatric provider who can assess your needs and prescribe medication if deemed necessary. If your symptoms are mild or moderate, therapy may be a better starting point. No matter where you begin your journey – your provider will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that’s based on your individual needs and concerns. Still unsure? Visit our blog to learn more about the differences.

Does Rula offer in-person appointments?

Currently, Rula offers in-person therapy in some states. For those living in other states, there are many benefits to online therapy!

Can Rula help me find a therapist?

Absolutely. Rula’s network of 10,000+ licensed providers represent more than 80 clinical specialties and a diverse range of backgrounds – making it easier to find the care you need. Once you provide us with some basic information, we’ll generate a curated list of in-network therapists who are licensed in your state and accepting new patients. From there, you can filter by what matters most to you and explore individual biographies until you find a match. Ready to get started?

What types of care can I access through Rula?

Providers in Rula’s network specialize in individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and psychiatric care (i.e., medication management).

Who is eligible to access care through Rula?

Individuals aged 5 and older are eligible to receive care in any state where Rula is available.

How will I meet with my therapist?

Rula specializes in online therapy – giving you the flexibility to meet with your therapist from wherever you’re most comfortable. We’ll send you an appointment reminder containing a secure link to your scheduled Zoom session approximately 24 hours before your session.

Connect with Grief therapists in San Francisco, CA

Book a session as soon as April 18

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

30+ Grief therapists

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

30+ Grief therapists

Eva Decroix

LMFT

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

Eva has a Master in Counseling (MC) Psychology from National University.

California

Specialties

Grief

ADHD

Anxiety

Cultural Stress

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Outcome-oriented

Warm

Curious

I am a counselor with a thriving interest in helping people reach their health and healing goals. I have studied and lived abroad for many years, such as in China and Korea. I have multi-background knowledge. I also was in the U.S. Army for 6 years, which means understands military rules and life, so veterans are very welcome.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Jalee Carder

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

7+ years

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

Jalee has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pacific Oaks College.

Los Angeles, CA

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Style

Outcome-oriented

Approachable

Collaborative

I work with adults facing challenges like anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, trauma, and relationship stress.

“We have come a long way in our healing and Jalee has been nothing but supportive and productive in making that happen.”

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Fernando Vinuela

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

10+ years

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

Fernando has a Master of Arts (MA) in CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY/ MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY from Pepperdine University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Cultural Stress

Depression

Family Conflict

Life Transitions

Style

Practical

Candid

Collaborative

I am a therapist with a Rogerian foundation. My areas of focus are anxiety, depression, family-stage changes, and immigrant families.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Alyssa Burnham

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

5+ years

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

Alyssa has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, East Bay.

California

Specialties

Grief

Life Transitions

Parenting

Relationship Issues

Women's Issues

Style

Insightful

Approachable

Affirming

I work with individuals across the lifespan with a focus on treating perinatal clients and young adults 18 - 25 years old. A blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness, coupled with an anti-oppression framework, supports clients in finding clarity, building on existing inner resources, and increasing well-being with self and others.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Abel Fernandez

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

41+ years

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

Abel has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Fresno.

Seaside, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Style

Responsive

Warm

Empowering

I have had the opportunity and privilege to work in various mental health settings, slowly priming myself to become a psychotherapist. It took many years before I felt I had the experience and confidence to step into this role.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Jon Douglas Detwiler

LMFT

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

Jon Douglas has a Masters of Arts (MA) Marriage and Family Therapy from California Family Study Center.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Relationship Issues

Stress

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Curious

Life can feel complicated, but I believe that when we stay close to our feelings and have the courage to explore them, we find our way back to who we truly are.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Gabriela Cibrian

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

7+ years

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

Gabriela has a Bachelor of Science (BS) from University of Phoenix.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Style

Exploratory

Gentle

Collaborative

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. My passion is working with individuals and families to help them understand behavioral patterns within themselves and to help them make positive changes.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Vannesa Arrivillaga-Rauda

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

1+ years

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

Vannesa has a Master of Clinical Health Services in Marriage and Family Therapy from University of Phoenix.

Redlands, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Life Transitions

Mood Disorders

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Insightful

Attuned

Collaborative

My focus has been on trauma, and I have worked with children, couples, and families navigating the challenges of trauma.

Next appointmentFriday, May 15th

Available virtually

Anush Petrosyan

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

Anush has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) in Counseling Psychology from Mount Saint Mary's College.

Van Nuys, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

LGBTQIA+

Sex Therapy

Transgender Issues

Style

Insightful

Approachable

Collaborative

I am a kink-aware, LGBTQ+, multicultural, alt lifestyle-affirming therapist. I provide a sex-positive, alt-inclusive, supportive environment to discuss all those things you have difficulty talking to your friends and family about. I work with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, life stressors, addiction, and trauma.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Stephanie Deatherage

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

Stephanie has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Community Mental Health from California State University, Fullerton.

Lake Forest, CA

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Substance Use

Style

Exploratory

Gentle

Collaborative

I help people navigate anxiety, depression, and life's ups and downs. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to feel stuck, disconnected, or overwhelmed. I offer a grounded, supportive space to reflect, heal, and reconnect with yourself. My approach is collaborative and rooted in evidence-based practices but guided by real human connection.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Sierra Bush

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

2+ years

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

Sierra has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Louisiana State University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Career Counseling

Depression

LGBTQIA+

Life Transitions

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Collaborative

I'm a compassionate therapist committed to fostering mental and emotional well-being in individuals facing diverse challenges.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Robey Patrick

LMFT

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

Robey has a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) in Spanish Literature from Ohio State University, a Master of Arts (MA) in Spanish Literature from Pennsylvania State University - Hershey and a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Psychology from National University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Child Abuse or Neglect

Cultural Stress

LGBTQIA+

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Outcome-oriented

Attuned

Affirming

I am a compassionate therapist who strives to create a welcoming and affirming space for all. My practice is specialized in helping people process trauma head-on, using the somatic and mindfulness-based modality of Brainspotting.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Johna Eatherton

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

Johna has a Master in Counseling (MC) from California Baptist College.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Depression

Self Esteem

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Outcome-oriented

Approachable

Motivational

I work with adults and teens to navigate anxiety, depression, and the effects of trauma. Therapy is a vulnerable process, and I take a walk beside you on your journey toward emotional well-being and self-discovery.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Michael Kessler

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

Michael has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Individual, Family and Group from San Francisco State University.

Santa Rosa, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Gender Identity

LGBTQIA+

Transgender Issues

Style

Responsive

Candid

Collaborative

I'm a genderqueer, transmasculine, pansexual therapist. I specialize in serving LGBTQIA+ people around exploring gender & attractions, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, dating & sex, coming out, family & relationship issues, body image & neurodivergence, among other things.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Jollene Stiles-Bradsher

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

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

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

LGBTQIA+

Relationship Issues

Style

Insightful

Warm

Motivational

Change is difficult, and learning to trust someone is even harder. I work to create affirming, empowering, and safe spaces for healing. My goal is to help you feel "self-connected" and to prepare you for your journey through life.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Continue exploring providers

See more therapists that specialize in Grief

Previous providers

Hundreds of thousands of patients have found affordable, in-network mental health care with Rula

Insurance

After you select a provider, we’ll send you a personalized cost estimate before your first session—so you’ll know what to expect.

$15 / session

typical cost patients pay through Rula

Nationwide coverage:

After you select a provider, we’ll send you a personalized cost estimate before your first session—so you’ll know what to expect.

100+ insurance plans accepted

140M total lives covered

Millions of sessions completed

Network

We hold providers to high clinical standards so you can trust the care you receive.

15,000+

licensed providers

Match

The right provider makes all the difference. We help you find someone who truly fits your needs—the first time.

98%

of searches result in an exact match

Progress

Care should make a difference. Our approach helps you track progress you can feel.

93%

of patients report feeling better after treatment through Rula

Additional therapy specialties and modalities

Sex Therapy Trauma and PTSD Anxiety EMDR Dialectical (DBT)

Psychiatry Couples Family Children therapy Preteen therapy Teen therapy

Male therapists Female therapists Spanish-speaking therapists Black or African American therapists Asian therapists Hispanic or Latinx therapists

Navigating online therapy for Grief

Still looking for a Grief therapist in San Francisco, California?

The fog rolls into the Richmond and suddenly you're crying on the 38 Geary because something reminded you of them again. Finding grief support in San Francisco shouldn't mean waiting weeks for an appointment or settling for someone who doesn't get it. Rula connects you with therapists who specialize in grief and loss, helping you honor what you've lost while finding your way forward.

Getting started takes minutes. Create an account on Rula and browse therapists who understand complicated grief, bereavement, and loss. Select someone whose approach and background feel right, then schedule your first session through the platform. You can meet via secure video from home or in person at locations throughout San Francisco, including the Mission, North Beach, and the Sunset. Appointments are available as soon as tomorrow, so you don't have to sit with this alone.

Most Rula patients pay between $0 and $25 per session with insurance. If you don't have coverage, payment plans and HSA/FSA options make therapy accessible. Ninety-four percent of Rula patients found a provider they feel comfortable with, and 93% report feeling better about their symptoms after receiving care. Grief therapy helps you carry loss without letting it carry you. You can honor what you've lost and still find your way forward. Start today.

FAQs

What will grief therapy cost with my insurance in San Francisco?

With San Francisco's high cost of living, therapy affordability matters. Most Rula patients pay between $0 and $25 per session using insurance, which makes consistent grief support financially sustainable even in one of the country's most expensive metros. If you don't have insurance coverage, payment plans and HSA/FSA options help make therapy accessible without the sticker shock.

Can I see a grief therapist in person in San Francisco, or is it telehealth only?

Rula offers both options. You can meet with a grief therapist via secure video from home, or schedule in-person sessions at locations throughout the city, including the Mission, North Beach, and the Sunset. Given San Francisco's notoriously long commutes and transit delays, having both options means you can prioritize convenience when you need it. Appointments are available as soon as tomorrow.

What type of therapist is best for grief in San Francisco?

Look for a licensed therapist who specializes in grief, loss, and bereavement. Rula's network includes over 21,000 mental health providers representing more than 180 clinical specialties, so you can filter for therapists trained in complicated grief, sudden loss, anticipatory grief, or specific situations like losing a partner or parent. In a city where provider wait times often stretch to weeks or months, having this many specialized options means you won't have to settle.

How do I know if a therapist in San Francisco actually specializes in grief?

Rula's platform lets you filter therapists by specialty areas including grief, loss, trauma, and bereavement. You can also see each provider's training, therapeutic approach, and patient reviews before booking. Ninety-four percent of Rula patients found a provider they feel comfortable with, which matters in a city where finding the right specialist can otherwise take months of trial and error.

Do I need a grief diagnosis to start therapy in San Francisco?

No. You don't need a formal diagnosis or referral to book a grief therapist through Rula. Many people start therapy simply because they're struggling with loss and need support navigating it. In San Francisco's high-pressure environment where there's often an expectation to bounce back quickly, grief therapy offers space to process loss at your own pace without having to justify or label your experience first.

What therapy approaches help with grief in San Francisco?

Evidence-based approaches for grief include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, narrative therapy, and meaning-making techniques. Your therapist will tailor the approach to your specific loss and where you are in the healing process. Ninety-three percent of Rula patients report feeling better after receiving care, and in a city where people often feel pressure to process loss quickly and privately, having professional guidance makes the journey less isolating.

How long does grief therapy take to work?

Many Rula patients report starting to feel better after just three sessions, though everyone's timeline is different based on the nature of their loss and their support system. In San Francisco, where the pressure to keep functioning at work and in daily life can make grief feel even more isolating, having regular therapy creates consistent space to process emotions without the expectation of quick fixes.

What does improvement from grief therapy look like?

Progress in grief therapy often looks like being able to remember your loved one without being overwhelmed by pain, returning to routines that felt impossible, or finding meaning in your loss. You might notice you can ride the 38 Geary without breaking down, or walk through neighborhoods that used to trigger intense emotions with more steadiness. Therapy helps you carry the loss without it carrying you.

Connect with Grief therapists in San Francisco, CA

Quality care comes first at Rula

Quality care comes first at Rula

Eva Decroix

Jalee Carder

Fernando Vinuela

Alyssa Burnham

Abel Fernandez

Jon Douglas Detwiler

Gabriela Cibrian

Vannesa Arrivillaga-Rauda

Anush Petrosyan

Stephanie Deatherage

Sierra Bush

Robey Patrick

Johna Eatherton

Michael Kessler

Jollene Stiles-Bradsher

Continue exploring providers

Hundreds of thousands of patients have found affordable, in-network mental health care with Rula

Insurance

$15 / session

Network

15,000+

Match

98%

Progress

93%

Additional therapy specialties and modalities

Find a therapist near you

We’re here when you need us

We’re here when you need us

Here to help