How to find the right therapist in California

When choosing a therapist in California, 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 Therapists who accept Cigna in California

Book a session as soon as April 18

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

30+ therapists who accept Cigna Health Plans

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

30+ therapists who accept Cigna Health Plans

Shelly Boismenu

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

Shelly has a Master in Counseling (MC) Transpersonal Psychology from John F. Kennedy University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Stress

Style

Insightful

Warm

Motivational

22 years’ experience specializing in women’s therapy, relationship issues, high-conflict co-parenting & custody issues, parenting support. Evidence and strength-based, relational. I help women and couples heal, find clarity, and restore confidence through compassionate, practical support. I am best known for holding complexity with clarity.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Graciela Real

LCSW

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

Graciela has a Master of Social Work from Loma Linda University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Divorce

Suicidal Ideation

Style

Insightful

Approachable

Curious

I am a licensed psychotherapist. In my practice, I use a variety of modalities, always focusing on client needs. My goal is to be supportive in times of emotional distress while providing the tools to help clients gradually make positive changes.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Dara D'Elia

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC

•

5+ years

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

Dara has a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from University of Redlands.

Beaumont, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Stress

Suicidal Ideation

Style

Responsive

Attuned

Affirming

I have experience working with a diverse population, starting at 6 years old up to adulthood, all coming from diverse backgrounds and situations, which include trauma, crisis, anxiety, depression, grief, and loss.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Tiffany Lewis-Hill

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

3+ years

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

Tiffany has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Brescia University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Stress

Substance Use

Style

Responsive

Approachable

Motivational

I take an eclectic approach to therapy, integrating various techniques to help my clients sustain the progress they make. I primarily work with adults navigating life's challenges.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Stephen Garrett

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

20+ years

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

Stephen has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from National University and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology from California Polytechnic University Pomona.

Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Family Conflict

Parenting

Stress

Style

Directive

Candid

Collaborative

I specialize in helping individuals navigate challenges related to work stress, relationship issues, race & cultural identity, social-emotional health, cultural adjustment, and pandemic-related anxiety. My philosophy revolves around enriching lives by promoting an everyday lifestyle of social-emotional well-being.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Amy Modlin

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

4+ years

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

Amy has a Master of Social Work (MSW) Clinical Social Work from Grand Valley State University.

Los Angeles, CA

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Alcohol Use

Anxiety

Depression

Substance Use

Style

Outcome-oriented

Spiritual

Collaborative

My approach to therapy is person-centered. I walk alongside my clients to guide the process of growth, healing, and increased insight. I specialize in addictions/substance use, depression/anxiety, trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, work-life stressors, and life transitions.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Robert Plavajka

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

4+ years

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

Robert has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) from California Baptist College.

California

Specialties

Grief

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Style

Outcome-oriented

Attuned

Collaborative

My areas of practice include individuals ranging from ages 5-65, couples, and families. My approach to therapy is typically more person-centered while integrating cognitive-behavioral therapy and solution-based approaches as needed.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Armando Ruan

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

Armando has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Depression

Self Esteem

Stress

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

Welcome — I'm glad you're here. I help individuals navigate life's challenges with clarity, compassion, and support. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply seeking growth, therapy can be a powerful space for change and healing. If you're ready to take the next step, I'd be honored to support you.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Elia Saint Karene

LMFT

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

Elia has a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Campbellsville University’s Los Angeles Phillips.

South Pasadena, CA

Specialties

Grief

Depression

Life Transitions

Men's Issues

Relationship Issues

Self Esteem

Style

Responsive

Attuned

Motivational

I help individuals and couples strengthen their relationships while building lives filled with meaning, purpose, and connection. My work focuses on helping you reconnect with your inner motivation, expand your capacity for joy, and create a life that feels deeply fulfilling.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Cassidy Begashaw

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

Cassidy has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Social Work and Social Researc from Bryn Mawr College.

Campbell, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Chronic Illness

Coping Skills

Peer Relationships

Stress

Style

Responsive

Approachable

Affirming

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience supporting pre-teens, teens, and young adults navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, work stress, and life transitions. I find it an honor to work alongside clients who are courageously taking steps to improve their lives.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Adebola Soyemi

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

2+ years

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

Adebola has a Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology from Argosy University.

Riverside, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Stress

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Responsive

Gentle

Empowering

I take a client-centered approach, meeting you where you are and collaboratively moving toward your goals and mental wellness. Through evidence-based techniques, I help you overcome obstacles, develop coping skills, and cultivate resilience.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Leanne Gip

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

21+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Leanne Gip, are social workers trained to 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.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anger Management

Anxiety

Depression

Stress

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

I work with people facing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, parenting challenges, and career transitions. My goal is to provide a space where you can explore your concerns and work toward meaningful change.

Next appointmentSunday, Apr 19th

Available virtually

Helene Siegel

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

17+ years

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

Helene has a Masters of Arts (MA) from National University.

Mission Viejo, CA

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Alcohol Use

Anxiety

Depression

Substance Use

Style

Responsive

Candid

Curious

I'm here to offer you client-centered and solution-focused therapy to assist you in living your best life and gaining skills in emotional regulation and other wellness techniques. I am available to serve you and guide you on your journey to navigate the disruptions of depression and anxiety and to function at your highest potential.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Andrew Nguyen

LCSW

•

1+ years

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

Andrew has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Long Beach.

Tustin, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Peer Relationships

Relationship Issues

Self Esteem

Style

Outcome-oriented

Candid

Supportive

I'm a licensed psychotherapist who has experience working with a diverse community, including young adolescents going through life transitions, adults facing everyday lifestyle challenges, and older adults embracing their mortality. My focus areas of practice primarily focuses anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, loneliness, and relationships.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Christopher Tromba

LMFT

•

7+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Christopher Tromba, 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 in Counseling (MC) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Antioch University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Alcohol Use

Anxiety

Bipolar Disorder

Substance Use

Style

Exploratory

Approachable

Supportive

Working with individuals and adolescents has been my priority. I have experienced and witnessed the transformative power of therapy. I would be honored to assist you on your personal journey to a richer and more fulfilling authentic life.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

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

Exploring online therapy for grief

Grief and its impact on life

Grief is a natural response to loss, often felt deeply when we lose someone or something important to us. It can manifest in various ways, including sadness, anger, confusion, and a sense of isolation. Grief can significantly impact daily life, affecting one’s ability to function in personal and professional settings. Navigating through grief is a deeply personal process and can be critical for emotional healing and moving forward.

The importance of therapy for grief

Engaging with a grief therapist can be helpful for those struggling with loss. Therapists specializing in grief can provide support and understanding, helping you to process complex emotions and cope with the pain of loss. Therapy can offer a safe space to explore feelings of grief, learn to adjust to life after loss, and develop strategies for healing and finding a new sense of normalcy.

Effective therapeutic approaches for grief

Various therapeutic methods can be effective in supporting people through grief:

Advantages of online therapy for grief

Online grief therapy offers several practical benefits. It can be accessible and convenient, allowing you to connect with therapists from the comfort and privacy of your own home, providing a secure space to openly discuss and process your feelings during such a sensitive and personal time. The sessions are flexible and can be scheduled according to your needs, accommodating the unpredictable nature of grief.

Tips for choosing the right grief therapist

FAQs about grief therapy and therapists

When to seek a grief therapist?

Consider seeking a grief therapist if your grief feels overwhelming, is affecting your ability to carry on with daily activities, or if you're struggling to move forward. Common signs include persistent sadness, inability to enjoy life, or feeling stuck in your grief. Therapy can provide a guided pathway through the grieving process, helping you to cope with the loss and a renewed sense of purpose.

What is the typical duration of therapy for grief?

The length of grief therapy varies for each person, depending on the nature of the loss and personal coping mechanisms. Some may find short-term therapy beneficial, while others might engage in longer-term support. Grief therapy is often flexible, with the therapist adapting to your changing needs over time.

What to expect in your first grief therapy session?

In the first session, you'll likely share your story of loss and discuss how it’s impacting your life. Your therapist should listen empathetically, ask questions, and work toward establishing a supportive and understanding relationship. This session sets the foundation for your grief therapy journey.

How to find a qualified therapist for grief?

A qualified therapist for grief should have specialized training in grief counseling or therapy. Look for therapists with experience in dealing with your specific situation, and credentials in therapies you’d like to explore.

Does insurance cover grief therapy sessions?

Insurance coverage for grief therapy can vary. After you've booked your first session, Rula verifies your insurance coverage and follows up with a cost estimate, including any required copayments.

Can grief therapy be conducted online?

Yes, grief therapy can be effectively conducted online. It offers a flexible and accessible option, allowing you to receive support in a setting that feels most comfortable for you, especially during a time of mourning. Therapy techniques can be adapted for virtual sessions, ensuring you receive care tailored to your needs and recovery journey.

Connect with Therapists who accept Cigna in California

Quality care comes first at Rula

Quality care comes first at Rula

Shelly Boismenu

Graciela Real

Dara D'Elia

Tiffany Lewis-Hill

Stephen Garrett

Amy Modlin

Robert Plavajka

Armando Ruan

Elia Saint Karene

Cassidy Begashaw

Adebola Soyemi

Leanne Gip

Helene Siegel

Andrew Nguyen

Christopher Tromba

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