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 Sierra Health and Life in California

Book a session as soon as April 21

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

30+ therapists who accept Sierra Health and Life

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

30+ therapists who accept Sierra Health and Life

Caprisha Moody

LMFT

•

9+ years

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

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

California

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Parenting

Stress

Style

Insightful

Approachable

Collaborative

I provide behavioral therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to help individuals navigate life's challenges.

Next appointmentFriday, Apr 24th

Available virtually

Carol Koshimizu

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

5+ years

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

Carol has a Master of Science (MS) in Counseling/Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy from University Of Phoenix.

Temecula, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Insightful

Approachable

Supportive

I join with you in a safe environment to guide and support your healing using innovative therapies. I work with you to obtain relief from stress, anger, anxiety, depression, grief, and fear. The goal is to transform your pain into self-acceptance and personal growth.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Karina Hernandez

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

Karina has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Fresno Pacific University.

Visalia, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Life Transitions

Relationship Issues

Style

Exploratory

Candid

Motivational

Life can be unpredictable, and you may find yourself feeling overwhelmed, afraid, anxious, stressed, or alone. If you are experiencing relationship issues, identity issues, depression, anxiety, life transitions, loss, or trauma, therapy can help. My goal is to foster a safe and supportive environment tailored to your needs and journey.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 28th

Available virtually

Kaitlin Strauss

LMFT

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

Kaitlin has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University.

California

Specialties

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Depression

Life Transitions

Stress

Style

Insightful

Attuned

Supportive

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, and life transitions. I aim to provide compassionate support as you bravely embrace meaningful growth.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Ahlam Axelrod

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

8+ years

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

Ahlam has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) in Counseling from Chapman University.

San Diego, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Cultural Stress

Divorce

Relationship Issues

Women's Issues

Style

Outcome-oriented

Candid

Curious

When you experience communication deficits in relationships, question your self-worth, or feel preoccupied with others' approval, it can feel isolating. I am here to support you through these times and help you develop the life you deserve and want to live.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 28th

Available virtually

Nicolette Munoz

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

Nicolette has a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Chapman University.

California

Specialties

Addiction

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Relationship Issues

Style

Exploratory

Candid

Collaborative

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I believe therapy works best when clients can sense the humanity of their therapist, knowing they are working with someone authentic, empathetic, and deeply invested in their growth. I believe it’s important for clients to experience their therapist as a real human being.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 28th

Available virtually

Alexis Dehghani

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

3+ years

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

Alexis has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from University of Southern California.

California

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Self Esteem

Style

Outcome-oriented

Warm

Collaborative

I specialize in working with adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, self-worth issues, depression, and trauma. I take a collaborative approach and strive to create a supportive space where you can openly address your concerns, gain insights, and make strides in your journey of personal growth and healing.

Next appointmentTomorrow

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

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 appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Dulce Quezada

LCSW

•

7+ years

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

Dulce has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Southern California.

Fontana, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Style

Outcome-oriented

Attuned

Supportive

I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy to help clients gain new insights and improve their quality of life.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Beth Leigh Kolakoski

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

8+ years

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

Beth Leigh has a Master in Counseling (MC) Counseling Psychology / Marriage and Family Therapy from University of San Francisco.

San Rafael, CA

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

Depression

Grief

Style

Responsive

Warm

Supportive

I help adults navigate anxiety, depression, grief, loss, neurodivergence, and life transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs. I provide a supportive space where you can feel heard, gain clarity, and develop practical strategies to restore balance and create meaningful change.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Nadine Lujan

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

11+ years

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

Nadine has a Master of Science (MS) in Counseling Psychology from California Lutheran University.

Thousand Oaks, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Older Adult

Stress

Style

Outcome-oriented

Gentle

Empowering

I work with young adults, adults, and seniors specializing in depression, anxiety, stress, and life transitions using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Supportive therapy, Behavioral therapy, and Humanistic therapy.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Elizabeth Ronca

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

9+ years

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

Elizabeth has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Clinical/Mental Health from Boston College.

California

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Life Transitions

Women's Issues

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Curious

I work with individual adults, specializing in anxiety, life transitions, depression, identity questioning, grief and loss, women's issues including perinatal mental health, and career counseling. My approach is person-centered and customized to each individual's concerns.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Amanda Rios

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

1+ years

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

Amanda has a Master's in Counseling (MC) Marriage and Family Counseling from California State University, Fresno.

Selma, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Relationship Issues

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Outcome-oriented

Candid

Collaborative

If you are feeling overwhelmed by life, then you are in the right place. You do not have to continue this venture alone.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 28th

Available virtually

Nancy Beltran

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC

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

Nancy has a Master of Arts (MA) in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

California

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Insightful

Approachable

Motivational

Navigating life’s complexities can feel overwhelming, especially when facing the weight of depression, anxiety, social expectations, and the unique challenges of ADHD and trauma. My clinical practice is rooted in personal experience and empathy, allowing me to support clients with compassion and create a safe and nonjudgmental environment.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 27th

Available virtually

Vanessa Gamache

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

7+ years

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

Vanessa has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) from University of San Francisco.

San Francisco, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Grief

Life Transitions

Relationship Issues

Style

Exploratory

Gentle

Curious

I'm passionate about supporting individuals, young adults, and adolescents navigating relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, transition, and grief. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship as a catalyst for meaningful change.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 28th

Available virtually

Continue exploring providers

See more providers

Previous providers

A closer look at Rula’s mental health providers in California

Specialty

Our providers specialize in a wide range of mental health needs, so you get care that truly fits you.

75

clinical specialties represented

Gender

You deserve a provider who understands your identity. Rula providers offer care that’s inclusive and affirming.

10

gender identities represented

Race & Ethnicity

Our providers represent a variety of backgrounds and cultures. Find providers who share or respect your lived experiences.

10

ethnicities represented across Rula providers

Therapy

Whether it’s stress, relationships, or personal growth, our therapists help you navigate what matters.

5,250

offer therapy

Psychiatry

Medication can be a key part of care. Our psychiatric providers offer expert guidance on what’s right for you.

90

offer medication management

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

Understanding online compassion-focused therapy

What is compassion-focused therapy, and how does it work

Compassion-focused therapy (CFT) is a form of therapy that aims to help people be more compassionate towards themselves and others. It’s often beneficial for people who struggle with shame, self-criticism, or low self-esteem. CFT combines cognitive behavioral therapy techniques with exercises promoting kindness, empathy, and understanding. The goal is to teach people how to be kinder to themselves, understand their difficult emotions, and improve their ability to relate to others and handle life's challenges.

Compassion-focused therapy may not be the best treatment for your needs. Understanding the process and discussing this treatment method with a mental health professional is important.

Common issues addressed by compassion-focused therapy

Compassion-focused therapy can address various emotional and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, and trauma-related stress. It's often helpful for people who experience intense guilt, shame, or self-criticism.

Benefits of online compassion-focused therapy

Online compassion-focused therapy offers the convenience and comfort of receiving treatment from your home. It can be convenient for those with busy lives, limited mobility, or prefer the privacy of their own space. Plus, the online format lets you connect with specialized therapists in your state who may not be in your local area, making treatment more accessible.

What to expect during an online compassion-focused therapy session

During an online compassion-focused therapy session, your therapist may guide you through exercises and discussions to develop self-compassion and empathy. CFT sessions may include activities to help you stay present and develop a more understanding and kind attitude towards yourself. Your therapist may want to discuss your past experiences to understand why you might be hard on yourself or engage in negative self-talk.

Choosing the right compassion-focused therapist

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

FAQs about online compassion-focused therapy

How effective is online compassion-focused therapy compared to in-person sessions?

For many people, online compassion-focused therapy can be effective in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma-related stress. Many therapists on the Rula platform have experience adapting compassion-focused therapy techniques to online formats. While some may prefer in-person interactions, others find online therapy more convenient and less intimidating, which can help make sessions more effective.

Is compassion-focused therapy right for me?

Compassion-focused therapy may be best suited for people who want to improve their relationship with themselves. This is often achieved by developing greater self-compassion and empathy. It can be particularly helpful for those who struggle with self-criticism or have a harsh internal dialogue. It’s important to consult a therapist to discuss your situation and determine if this therapy fits your needs.

How should I prepare for online compassion-focused sessions?

It's important to approach compassion-focused therapy sessions with an open mind and willingness to explore your emotions and self-perceptions. CFT aims to help you develop a more compassionate and kind approach towards yourself and others. Be prepared to participate in exercises that encourage self-compassion and challenge self-critical thoughts.

How long does compassion-focused therapy typically last?

The duration of compassion-focused therapy varies depending on your needs and goals. While some people may benefit from short-term treatment, others engage in longer-term sessions to fully develop and strengthen their compassionate skills.

Are there any requirements for participating in online compassion-focused therapy?

It’s important to have access to a private, quiet space where you won’t be disturbed. This helps in maintaining focus and privacy during sessions. You’ll also need a reliable internet connection and a device capable of video conferencing.

Quality care comes first at Rula

Quality care comes first at Rula

Continue exploring providers

A closer look at Rula’s mental health providers in California

Specialty

75

Gender

10

Race & Ethnicity

10

Therapy

5,250

Psychiatry

90

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

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