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 20

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

Monique Dean

LCSW

•

4+ years

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

Monique has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Dominguez Hills.

Riverside, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

I'm a therapist working with youth and families. I bring compassion, intuition, and authenticity to my therapeutic approach.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Joleene Watabe

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC

•

5+ years

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

Joleene has a Master of Arts (MA) in Community Counseling from Xavier University.

Clovis, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Relationship Issues

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Insightful

Spiritual

Curious

I'm passionate about helping people live healthy and fulfilling lives. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, and religious/spiritual issues. I'm LGBTQ+ friendly and use a customized approach combining multiple therapeutic methods.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Janelle Kwak

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LMFT

•

10+ years

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

Janelle has a Master of Arts (MA) from National University.

Carlsbad, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

I specialize in working with adults who experience anxiety, depression, and trauma. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by painful past experiences or unhelpful thought patterns, I can help you feel supported and give you tools to help you move forward with clarity, resilience, and confidence.

“Janelle is a great listener who makes me feel safe and heard. She provides constructive feedback and never minimizes my feelings. She is thoughtful and responsive to questions/concerns. A truly wonderful therapist.”

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Harrison Smith

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LPCC

•

3+ years

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

Harrison has a Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Florida State University.

California

Specialties

Alcohol Use

Anxiety

Depression

Substance Use

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who helps clients break patterns, gain clarity, and create lasting change. My approach is direct, insight-driven, and focused on depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, and addictive behaviors.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Maribel Alaniz Mendez

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

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

California

Specialties

Family Conflict

Grief

Life Transitions

Relationship Issues

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Supportive

I understand how overwhelming grief and loss can feel. Whether you're coping with the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or another significant life change, you're not meant to go through it alone. With support, you can process your pain, reconnect with yourself, and rediscover joy and meaning in your life.

Next appointmentFriday, Apr 24th

Available virtually

Jennifer Kalusa

LMFT

•

4+ years

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

Jennifer has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Hope International University and a Master of Public Health (MPH) in Health Education and Health Promotion from Loma Linda University.

Santa Clara, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Peer Relationships

Relationship Issues

Style

Insightful

Warm

Affirming

I specialize in working with adults navigating traumatic experiences, relationships, self-discovery, and complex emotions. I believe each person has within them what they need to heal and to have emotional health and healthy relationships.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

David Franceschini

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC

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

David has a Master's in Counseling (MC) from Concordia University- Irvine.

California

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Men's Issues

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Approachable

Supportive

No human is immune from heartache, loss, fear, insecurities, and traumas, big and small. If you’re alive, you’ve experienced some STUFF, and you don’t have to carry the burden alone. I offer compassionate, trauma-informed care using EMDR, CBT, Brainspotting, and relational approaches to help you heal, grow, and find balance.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Lisa Frampton

LCSW

•

5+ years

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

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

California

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Outcome-oriented

Approachable

Empowering

I work with adults of all ages. I specialize in working with anxiety and depressive disorders using Talk therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered, and Strength-based approaches.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Melissa Ellis

LCSW

•

1+ years

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

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

Los Angeles, CA

Specialties

Life Transitions

Women's Issues

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Curious

I empower clients by providing the tools they need to succeed. With a holistic and compassionate approach, I specialize in working with teens, older adults, and women's issues. My goal is to create a supportive environment where clients can thrive and achieve their personal growth.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Sarah Hart

LCSW

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

Sarah has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Fullerton.

San Diego, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Trauma and PTSD

Women's Issues

Style

Insightful

Warm

Empowering

I know how hard it can be to reach out for therapy, so thank you for being here and investing in yourself. I’m Sarah, an LCSW who helps people heal from anxiety, depression, and past wounds through a warm and supportive approach. You’re not broken, you’re human, and change is possible.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Eyizah Acquaye

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT

•

3+ years

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

Eyizah has a Master of Science (MS) in Counseling Psychology/Marriage and Family Therapy from California Baptist University.

San Bernardino, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Stress

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Insightful

Candid

Collaborative

I would love to join you to explore ways to make life better. I can assist you in gaining insight into the patterns that may be contributing to your challenges and walk with you on a path to healing.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Hope Obermiller

LMFT

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

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

California

Specialties

Anxiety

Relationship Issues

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Curious

I help individuals and couples process trauma, manage anxiety, and improve communication. My focus is on building resilience and creating meaningful change in a supportive space.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Amber Locklear

LCSW

•

2+ years

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

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

Palmdale, CA

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Self Esteem

Style

Insightful

Candid

Supportive

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes everyone has the capacity to heal; how much and how deeply a person wants to go into that realm is up to them. My role is to nurture and support growth, so it will be challenging at times, but on the journey of healing, beautiful and amazing opportunities present themselves.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Morgan Taylor

LMFT

•

3+ years

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

Morgan has a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University.

Nevada City, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Stress

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Candid

Collaborative

My education and training have been centered on being trauma-informed and working with individuals, couples, and families.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Minerva Romano

LMFT

•

8+ years

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

Minerva has a Master of Science (MS) in Counseling from California State University, Fullerton.

Santa Ana, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Responsive

Warm

Curious

I am a therapist who would love to work with you to create your own personal space, a space where you feel safe to express your needs, process your emotions, and allow for empowerment and transformation. I work in partnership with you towards your goals as a guide.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

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.

5,248

offer therapy

Psychiatry

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

89

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 EMDR therapy

What is EMDR therapy, and how does it work?

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a unique form of therapy that aims to reduce the distress associated with traumatic memories. Therapists use several types of stimuli during EMDR therapy, such as moving a light wand back and forth while the patient tracks it with their eyes and focuses on the target memory. The therapy is grounded in the understanding that trauma can overwhelm our brains, creating lasting effects. A therapist trained in EMDR can help you process traumatic memories and promote emotional healing.

EMDR 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 EMDR therapy

EMDR therapy can be effective in treating a range of conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other stress-related disorders. This therapy has shown positive results for people who have faced different types of trauma, ranging from an adverse experience or abuse to more subtle yet significant life events. It can often benefit those who haven't succeeded with conventional treatment methods.

Potential benefits of online EMDR therapy

Online EMDR 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 EMDR therapy session

During an online EMDR session, your therapist will guide you through specific eye movements or tasks as you recall distressing events. Combining discussion and guided exercises during online sessions aims to reduce the emotional impact of these memories. In the online setting, your therapist can use digital tools to enhance the EMDR process, adapting in-person techniques to suit the virtual environment.

Choosing the right EMDR therapist

Insurance coverage for therapy varies by provider 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 EMDR therapy

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

Recent studies suggest that, for many people, online EMDR therapy can be as effective as in-person sessions. Many therapists on the Rula platform have experience adapting EMDR techniques for 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 EMDR therapy right for me?

EMDR therapy is suitable for many people dealing with trauma or stress-related issues. It may be helpful if other therapy approaches haven’t fully addressed your symptoms or you're looking for a different approach. It’s important to consult a professional EMDR therapist to discuss your situation and determine if this therapy fits your needs best.

How should I prepare for online EMDR sessions?

Before starting EMDR therapy, it’s important to prepare yourself to face potentially distressing memories. Consider letting trusted people know you're planning to start working with a therapist and might need extra support as you dive in. Acknowledge that the process might bring up a range of emotions and that healing isn't always linear. Remember that your therapist should support you every step of the way, and you can feel fully comfortable sharing your experience with them.

How long does EMDR therapy last?

The length of EMDR therapy varies depending on your circumstances, including the nature of the trauma and your response to treatment. Some people may experience significant improvement within a few sessions, while others might engage in EMDR therapy over several months. Your therapist can tailor EMDR to your unique healing journey.

Are there any requirements for participating in online EMDR 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

5,248

Psychiatry

89

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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