How to find the right therapist in Santa Ana, CA

When choosing a therapist in Santa Ana, 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 Autism or Asperger's Syndrome therapists in Santa Ana, CA

Book a session as soon as April 20

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

30+ Autism or Asperger's Syndrome therapists

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

30+ Autism or Asperger's Syndrome therapists

Jamelle Brown

LMFT

•

1+ years

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

Jamelle has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Marriage, Family Therapist Counseling Psychology from California Institute of Integral Studies.

Modesto, CA

Specialties

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Insightful

Gentle

Affirming

I bring clinical experience and lived experiences to help you identify distorted narratives and gain insight into your specific issues. I work with youth, teens, parents, single parents, young adults, and middle-aged adults navigating stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and trauma.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Cristobal Galvan

LMFT

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

Cristobal has a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Psychological Trauma from Antioch University.

California

Specialties

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

Anxiety

Cultural Stress

Life Transitions

Men's Issues

Relationship Issues

Style

Responsive

Attuned

Motivational

Feeling stuck or like you’ve been carrying everything on your own for too long? You don’t have to do it alone anymore. I help people understand emotional patterns, heal from difficult experiences, and build healthier relationships in a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can gain clarity and live more authentically.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Jordan Gray

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

7+ years

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

Jordan has a Master in Counseling from Argosy University, San Francisco Bay Area.

Tustin, CA

Specialties

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Mood Disorders

Style

Responsive

Candid

Motivational

I focus on adolescents, young adults, and adults. In session, I make an effort to be compassionate, direct, approachable, and transparent.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Briana Rivera

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

Briana has a Master's in Counseling (MC) from Pepperdine University.

California

Specialties

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Relationship Issues

Stress

Style

Outcome-oriented

Attuned

Motivational

Taking the step to begin therapy is brave, and I'm here to support you. I specialize in individual, couples, and marriage therapy, combining cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused approaches to help you navigate challenges and foster deeper connections. If you're ready to explore your thoughts in a safe space, let's chat.

Next appointmentFriday, Apr 24th

Available virtually

Melissa Halici

LMFT

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

Melissa has a Masters of Arts (MA) Marriage and Family Therapy with Specialization in Clinical Art Therapy from Loyola Marymount University.

California

Specialties

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

ADHD

Addiction

Chronic Illness

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Insightful

Warm

Empowering

I’m an LMFT and Art Therapist who believes real change begins with understanding yourself more fully—your emotions, experiences, and the patterns that shape your life. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or disconnected from yourself/others, I’ll help you untangle what’s going on and guide you back toward a sense of clarity and alignment.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Jennelle Saavedra

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

4+ years

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

Jennelle has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Psychology from Brandman University.

Santa Paula, CA

Specialties

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Curious

We are all just doing the best that we can, but it is easy to feel depleted, alone, anxious, or depressed. Making the decision and commitment to better oneself is difficult, to say the least. I am here to help you achieve your goals.

“She gives amazing support. She is a fantastic listener, and I feel very heard and seen in her care. I am comfortable sharing things that are challenging to share at times. She is a fantastic therapist.”

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Nidya Crockett

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

4+ years

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

Nidya has a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from University of Phoenix and a Master of Social Work (MSW) with Emphasis: Community, Organization, and Business Innovation; Military Social Work from University of Southern California.

Riverside, CA

Specialties

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

Anxiety

Self Esteem

Stress

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Responsive

Approachable

Supportive

I believe people deserve to heal from life's stressors, and building a support system is essential to that process. I specialize in helping individuals with mood disorders, complex traumas, emotional disturbances, and significant life transitions.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

David Weeks

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

1+ years

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

David has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from USC.

Visalia, CA

Specialties

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Style

Practical

Gentle

Curious

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in working with adults navigating challenges such as anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, autism, and major life transitions. I integrate evidence-based practices, including Polyvagal Theory (Neurobiology), neurodivergent-affirming practices, IFS, ACT, and mindfulness techniques.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Sara Hechtman

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

3+ years

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

Sara has a Master's of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University.

Culver City, CA

Specialties

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

Addiction

Anxiety

Depression

LGBTQIA+

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Approachable

Curious

I specialize in individual and family therapy, working with diverse populations including geriatric, LGBTQIA+, dual diagnosis, and chemical dependency clients.

“She's helped me understand a lot about myself and doesn't judge or belittle what I feel. I've come a long way because of her.”

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Eliana Martin

LCSW

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

Eliana has a Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) from Western Carolina University.

California

Specialties

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

Anxiety

Cultural Stress

Depression

LGBTQIA+

Life Transitions

Style

Responsive

Warm

Affirming

I am a bilingual LCSW. I specialize in supporting youth and adults, with a focus on LGBTQ+ clients, immigrants, and first-generation and single mothers navigating complex life transitions. I provide a safe, affirming space where we can work together to build on your strengths, process challenges, and move toward the life you want

Next appointmentFriday, Apr 24th

Available virtually

Cassandra Lopez

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT

•

8+ years

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

Cassandra has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Chapman University.

Santa Clarita, CA

Specialties

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

Anxiety

Depression

Infertility

Life Transitions

Style

Outcome-oriented

Approachable

Collaborative

My goal is to empower clients with the tools they need to make the best personal choices. I take a compassionate and tailored approach to help each individual reach their goals.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Ruth Arviso-Richmond

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCP

Licensed Clinical Psychologists (LCPs), like Ruth Arviso-Richmond, hold a doctoral degree and are trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Ruth has a Doctor of Psychology (PSYD) from California Lutheran University.

Thousand Oaks, CA

Specialties

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

Depression

Family Conflict

Relationship Issues

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Outcome-oriented

Approachable

Supportive

I specialize in working with individuals struggling with depression and those trying to make sense of traumatic life experiences. I also provide support for maintaining healthy relationships and fostering more cohesive family units. Therapy is often that first step to moving forward.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Anthonie Etienne

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

3+ years

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

Anthonie has a Master of Divinity (MDIV) Youth and Family Ministry, Pastor from Grand Canyon University, a Master of Arts (MA) in Master of Divinity from Grand Canyon University and a Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology, Marriage Family Therap,y and Professional Clinical Counseling from Chapman University.

California

Specialties

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

Anger Management

Anxiety

Behavioral Issues

Depression

Mood Disorders

Style

Outcome-oriented

Spiritual

Collaborative

I am an LMFT, Pastoral Counselor, and Ordained Minister. I find joy in serving those seeking realignment in life. By reaching the heart of challenges, we build from the inside out. Our work together focuses on being heard, developing solutions, and empowering you to overcome.

Next appointmentFriday, Apr 24th

Available virtually

Elizaveta Egorova

LMFT

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

Elizaveta has a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University.

Cerritos, CA

Specialties

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

Anxiety

Codependency

Depression

Life Transitions

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Collaborative

I support individuals facing anxiety, depression, codependency, and trauma. My approach is holistic, incorporating cognitive-behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, solution-focused strategies, and mindfulness. Together, we'll create a warm, supportive space where you feel safe on your journey.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Venecia Ebneof

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

8+ years

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

Venecia has a Master of Science (MS) in Marriage and family counseling and child Therapy from University of Phoenix.

California

Specialties

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

Anger Management

Depression

Parenting

Relationship Issues

Stress

Style

Outcome-oriented

Candid

Empowering

I work with individuals, couples, and families navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, and emotional stress. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard and supported as we explore what brings you to therapy and how I can help you move forward.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Continue exploring providers

See more therapists that specialize in Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

Previous providers

From our blog

View article

“Focusing on autistic people’s strengths allows me to adapt cognitive behavioral therapy and other interventions. This could look like asking them to use their increased memory capacity to remember and identify negative thoughts.”

– Elise Miller, MA, LPC

View article

“It’s completely valid to feel overwhelmed. Holding both autism and trauma can feel heavy, but it also means there are multiple paths to healing. You’re not broken, and understanding both can help you care for yourself with more clarity and compassion.”

– Brandy Chalmers, LPC

View article

“Therapy can be a great way for parents to learn skills to best support their child’s unique needs. With outside perspective and skills training, parents and children can learn to collaborate together.”

– Ashley Ayala, LMFT

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 Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

Still looking for a Autism or Asperger's Syndrome therapist in Santa Ana, California?

Sunday lunch at one of the packed Mexican restaurants along Bristol Street in Santa Ana, and the noise level makes it impossible to track the conversation bouncing between aunts, cousins, and grandparents crammed around the table. You're not being rude when you can't make eye contact or need to step outside. You're autistic, and navigating sensory overload in multi-generational gatherings is exhausting when you're masking every interaction. Rula connects you with autism specialists in Santa Ana who understand that support isn't about fixing you, it's about helping you unmask without judgment.

Rula's network includes therapists and coaches who specialize in autism spectrum support and can help with social communication challenges, sensory sensitivities, and identity exploration. Getting started is straightforward: you'll sign up, browse providers who match your needs, select someone who feels right, and schedule your first session. You can meet with your therapist through telehealth or find in-person options in Santa Ana neighborhoods, with online appointments available as soon as tomorrow.

Finding an autism therapist in Santa Ana who takes insurance doesn't mean compromising on quality. Rula patients typically pay between $0 and $25 per session with insurance, and self-pay options include payment plans and HSA or FSA coverage if you're uninsured. Ninety-four percent of Rula patients found a provider they feel comfortable with, and 93% report feeling better about their symptoms after receiving care through Rula. Understanding yourself isn't a diagnosis to fear, it's permission to stop performing. You can start today.

FAQs

How much does autism therapy cost in Santa Ana with insurance?

Given Santa Ana's cost of living pressures for working families, finding affordable autism support matters. Rula patients typically pay between $0 and $25 per session with insurance, which means therapy doesn't have to stretch an already tight budget. If you're uninsured, Rula offers self-pay options including payment plans and HSA or FSA coverage, so you have choices beyond going without care.

Can I see an autism therapist in person in Santa Ana, or is it telehealth only?

Rula offers both in-person sessions in Santa Ana neighborhoods and telehealth options, so you can choose what works for your sensory needs and schedule. If commuting downtown during rush hour feels overwhelming, telehealth lets you meet from home. Either way, online appointments are available as soon as tomorrow, which addresses the long waitlists typical in Orange County.

What type of therapist should I look for autism support in Santa Ana?

Look for therapists who specialize in autism spectrum support, including those trained in social communication, sensory integration, and identity exploration. Rula's network includes therapists and coaches with these specific backgrounds, and 94% of Rula patients found a provider they feel comfortable with. That matching rate matters when you need someone who gets the autism experience, not just general mental health support.

How do I know if a therapist in Santa Ana really understands autism?

When browsing providers on Rula, you can filter by specialties like autism and Asperger's syndrome to see only therapists with that training. Rula's network represents over 180 clinical specialties, so you're not settling for whoever has an opening. This filtering helps Santa Ana residents avoid the common frustration of booking with a generalist who doesn't understand neurodivergence.

Do I need an autism diagnosis before starting therapy in Santa Ana?

No, you don't need a formal diagnosis to start autism therapy through Rula. Many adults in Santa Ana seek support while exploring whether autism explains their experiences with sensory overload, social exhaustion, or masking. Your therapist can help you understand your neurology and, if appropriate, guide you toward evaluation resources. Getting support doesn't require having everything figured out first.

What therapy approaches help with autism in Santa Ana?

Effective approaches for autistic adults include cognitive behavioral therapy for managing anxiety, dialectical behavior therapy for emotional regulation, and social skills training for navigating interactions. Many Santa Ana residents also benefit from sensory integration strategies and support for reducing masking behaviors. Rula therapists use evidence-based methods tailored to your specific goals, whether that's handling sensory overload at family gatherings or advocating for accommodations at work.

How long does it take to see results from autism therapy in Santa Ana?

Rula patients typically report starting to feel better after just three sessions, though autism therapy is often about ongoing support rather than a quick fix. Early sessions might focus on immediate stressors like managing sensory overwhelm in Santa Ana's crowded public spaces or reducing the exhaustion from constant masking. Longer-term work builds self-understanding and sustainable coping strategies.

What does improvement from autism therapy look like in Santa Ana?

Improvement often means feeling less exhausted from masking, understanding your sensory needs better, and communicating boundaries more clearly in social and work situations. For Santa Ana residents navigating multi-generational households or demanding jobs, therapy can help you honor your needs without guilt. Ninety-three percent of Rula patients report feeling better about their symptoms after receiving care, which reflects real progress in daily functioning and self-acceptance.

Connect with Autism or Asperger's Syndrome therapists in Santa Ana, CA

Quality care comes first at Rula

Quality care comes first at Rula

Jamelle Brown

Cristobal Galvan

Jordan Gray

Briana Rivera

Melissa Halici

Jennelle Saavedra

Nidya Crockett

David Weeks

Sara Hechtman

Eliana Martin

Cassandra Lopez

Ruth Arviso-Richmond

Anthonie Etienne

Elizaveta Egorova

Venecia Ebneof

Continue exploring providers

From our blog

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