Connect with Therapists who accept Optum in California

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+ therapists
A headshot image of Danny McCroskey

Danny McCroskey

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
13+ years

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

Danny has a Master's in Counseling (MC) from University of Phoenix.

Beaumont, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Style
Practical
Warm
Collaborative

I use an evidence-based intervention that I find best suited for the individual. I provide services to children, teens, adults, and couples. I also have experience in treating LGBTQ+ clients and their families.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Carrie Poulson

Carrie Poulson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
10+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Carrie Poulson, 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.

Escondido, CA
Specialties
Codependency
Depression
Self Esteem
Women's Issues
Style
Exploratory
Gentle
Empowering

I am a Licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist. I am also a certified art therapist. I am understanding and will meet you where you are at, shine a light on the path and walk along side you as you navigate your journey.

Carrie is a great communicator and a great listener. She has a great deal of experience and is able to point things out to me that I am missing, and also ask questions that make me consider different aspects of my situation. She is direct, but also considerate of how she phrases her opinion on sensitive subjects. I highly recommend her.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Metra Jaberi

Metra Jaberi

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
11+ years

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

Metra has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Azusa Pacific University.

Moreno Valley, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
Life Transitions
Substance Use
Style
Responsive
Gentle
Supportive

I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ekaete Ekpo

Ekaete Ekpo

LMFT
4+ years

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

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

Pasadena, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Style
Outcome-oriented
Warm
Motivational

Thank you for considering me in your wellness journey. My approach to our therapeutic relationship will be with warmth, care, compassion, and a non-judgmental approach, adapting to the unique needs of each client.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Stephanie Avina

Stephanie Avina

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
8+ years

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

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

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Collaborative

I specialize in working with trauma, suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression, and working with children.

Available virtually

A headshot image of ReShawnda Richardson

ReShawnda Richardson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
10+ years

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

ReShawnda has a Masters of Arts (MA) Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles.

Sacramento, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Stress
Style
Responsive
Warm
Supportive

I take a warm, compassionate, and client-centered approach to therapy, combining evidence-based techniques with flexibility to meet your unique needs. I specialize in supporting clients with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, ADHD, and stress management, helping you build coping skills and achieve meaningful growth.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Nancy Crute

Nancy Crute

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
6+ years

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

Nancy has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Catholic University of America.

California
Specialties
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
Stress
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Warm
Curious

I work with adults experiencing major life transitions, depression, anxiety, grief, and low self-esteem. I offer warm, compassionate, and insight-oriented care. I blend practical tools with deeper exploration so you can better understand yourself- as well as manage your symptoms. When appropriate, I utilize art and intuitive practices in my work.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Avigail Ward

Avigail Ward

LMFT
14+ years

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

Avigail has a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) in MFT from Loma Linda University and a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) from Chapman University.

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Gentle
Curious

My goal is to provide a safe space where you feel heard and valued. It's a privilege to be allowed into your life and have you share your deepest thoughts and feelings with me.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Sean Kennedy

Sean Kennedy

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
6+ years

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

Sean has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Adelphi University.

San Francisco, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
Stress
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Empowering

I come from a strengths-based approach. This means I will never ask what is wrong with you but instead, what is right with you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Chonnie Thiessen

Chonnie Thiessen

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
8+ years

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

Chonnie has a Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology from Brandman University.

Palm Desert, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Spiritual
Curious

I am a therapist with a passion for helping others. I provide effective and compassionate therapy to individuals, couples, and families.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ihuoma Egbuziem-Anderson

Ihuoma Egbuziem-Anderson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
6+ years

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

Ihuoma has a Master of Science (MS) in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University, Fresno.

Fresno, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
Relationship Issues
Style
Responsive
Gentle
Motivational

My role is to walk alongside you and help you become the best version of yourself. I am knowledgeable in several treatment modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral, Client-Centered, Solution-Focused, Strength-Based, and Mindfulness.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Karen Kaiser

Karen Kaiser

LPCC
4+ years

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

Karen has a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from George Mason University, a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) from University of Virginia and a Master of Education (MED) from University of Virginia.

California
Specialties
Chronic Illness
Mood Disorders
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Curious

I view my role not as an expert dictating your path, but as a guide accompanying you on your journey towards healing and self-discovery. Each individual holds the key to their well-being; my job is to support you in unlocking your inherent potential and navigating the challenges that arise along the way.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Herbert Wright

Herbert Wright

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
8+ years

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

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

Carson, CA
Specialties
Borderline Personality
Schizophrenia
Substance Use
Style
Outcome-oriented
Spiritual
Motivational

I specialize in Humanistic / Existential, CBT, Object Relations, Solution-Focused, and Structural Family Therapy.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Joseph Sarcoz

Joseph Sarcoz

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
12+ years

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

Joseph has a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from California Graduate Institute.

Palm Desert, CA
Specialties
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Outcome-oriented
Approachable
Supportive

I specialize in treating LGBTQ+ patients experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, addiction, and other life challenges related to minority sexual orientation.

Available virtually

A headshot image of John Peters

John Peters

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
26+ years

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

John has a Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) from UCLA Dept of Social Work.

Santa Monica, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Men's Issues
Older Adult
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Directive
Warm
Supportive

I have experience helping clients with aging issues, stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, depression, and life changes.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Linda Karpel

Linda Karpel

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
20+ years

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

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

Lake Forest, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Relationship Issues
Transgender Issues
Style
Responsive
Warm
Supportive

I work with individuals and young adults facing a range of mental health concerns. My focus is on creating a supportive space where you feel heard and respected as we address what matters most to you.

My therapist is amazing. I feel so much like I am learning more about myself and about life just from each session. I would highly recommend her.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Christopher Richardson

Christopher Richardson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
10+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Christopher Richardson, 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 a Marriage and Family Therapy Specialization from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
Grief
Substance Use
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Collaborative

Life is a journey with many bumps along the way, and I specialize in helping you navigate them. I work with people facing trauma, grief, anxiety, substance abuse, and depression. Whether you're dealing with short-term stress or long-term challenges, I'll use my knowledge and our therapeutic relationship to help you reach your best self.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Nazanin Arkan

Nazanin Arkan

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
5+ years

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

Nazanin has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Gentle
Supportive

I specialize in working with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and dual diagnoses. My approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and focused on treating the whole person. I utilize evidence-based modalities to help you gain insight, heal from within, and move forward with clarity and confidence.

They are insightful, providing suggestions to think and consider in order to better understand and cope with the issues at hand. They provide a calm and welcoming personality that makes it easy to open up about issues that one is dealing with.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Alanna Villanueva

Alanna Villanueva

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
7+ years

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

Alanna has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California Baptist College.

Dunsmuir, CA
Specialties
Life Transitions
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
Self Esteem
Spirituality
Stress
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

Proud of you for exploring therapy—it's not easy to take that first step. I genuinely enjoy supporting my clients through the therapeutic process, meeting you where you are and walking alongside you.

Alanna has always been a therapist who I feels listens attentively and who really cares about her clients. She has always met me with compassion and is very attentive. I appreciate the inquisitive questions she asks which helps me get a better understanding of myself and help me reflect further. She has been essential in working through past trauma. She is also very kind and so friendly.

Available virtually

A headshot image of James Harris

James Harris

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
6+ years

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

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

Laguna Niguel, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Alcohol Use
Anxiety
Depression
Style
Exploratory
Spiritual
Collaborative

I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who lives in Laguna Niguel, California. I work with adults of all ages, genders, and nationalities and specialize in stress, depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, substance/alcohol use disorder, codependency, interpersonal issues, relationship issues, marriage and family issues, and couples counseling.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Kelly Thompson

Kelly Thompson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
5+ years

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

Kelly has a Masters of Science in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist College and a Master in Counseling (MC) from California Baptist College.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Codependency
Depression
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Supportive

I'm committed to helping individuals navigate life's complexities. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where people feel seen, heard, and empowered. Whether we're working through mental health concerns, relationship struggles, or personal growth, I believe in the power of meaningful, collaborative conversation.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Julio Guerrero

Julio Guerrero

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
15+ years

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

Julio has a Master of Science (MS) in Counseling, MFT from California State University, Long Beach.

Torrance, CA
Specialties
ADHD
Anger Management
Anxiety
Behavioral Issues
Depression
Style
Responsive
Warm
Supportive

I am a first-generation American and a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. In my work with clients, I understand the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and I collaborate with my clients to work on solutions.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Nicole Gutierrez

Nicole Gutierrez

LMFT
6+ years

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

Nicole has a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute.

California
Specialties
Codependency
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
Spirituality
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Spiritual
Curious

I’m an LMFT specializing in integrative depth psychotherapy. My goal is to create a warm, supportive space where we can explore your patterns, emotions, and life experiences together.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Haley Wright

Haley Wright

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
8+ years

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

Haley has a Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Counseling from California State University, Long Beach.

Long Beach, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
Stress
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Collaborative

I specialize in treating trauma and work with individuals, couples, families, and children. I help people navigate depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, interpersonal conflict, and challenges related to the pandemic.

Haley has been solid as my therapist. She's helped me navigate through the fog of my everyday struggles, especially when it comes to managing my stresses. She's very attentive and her feedback has helped me understand me better. I get those epiphany moments when she really helps break down those walls I've built up and lived with. When that happens, at least for me, I see that as heaven scent. I appreciate her more after every session. Haley is awesome. I hope to be a better historian, a better human and a stronger me with every passing day.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Elias Tamene

Elias Tamene

LPCC
5+ years

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

Elias has a Master's in Counseling (MC) from Boston Graduate School of Psychoanalysis.

California
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Supportive

I help individuals navigate life's challenges with compassion, clarity, and evidence-based care. My practice is grounded in respect, collaboration, and a deep belief in your capacity for growth and healing.

Available virtually

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