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

Susan Lambert

LCSW

•

26+ years

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

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

March Air Reserve Base, CA

Specialties

Anger Management

Anxiety

Bipolar Disorder

Depression

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Insightful

Approachable

Affirming

I will help you with a plan that will allow you to achieve your goals. I believe that trust, feeling safe, and using the therapeutic suggestions are the keys to success in therapy. Seeing your goals met is my goal. I work with adults who experience depression, anxiety, trauma, and dissociation. I am an LCSW in California, License #: LCSW (19382).

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Carl Quedenfeld

LPCC

•

32+ years

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

Carl has a Master of Arts (MA) Addiction Studies from Indiana Wesleyan University and a Master of Arts (MA) Counseling from Northern Illinois University.

California

Specialties

Anger Management

Addiction

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Substance Use

Style

Practical

Candid

Curious

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have spent the last 44 years in the field of mental health and substance use doing direct service, supervision, management, and consulting. I have training and skills in a variety of evidence-based treatments, including the Gottman Method for relationships, DBT, CBT, Exposure therapy, and other modalities.

Next appointmentFriday, Apr 24th

Available virtually

Jennifer Rondeau

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPCC

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

Jennifer has a Master's in Counseling (MC) from University of Redlands.

Yucaipa, CA

Specialties

Anger Management

Anxiety

Bipolar Disorder

Depression

Life Transitions

Relationship Issues

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Curious

Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and I commend you for it. I'm here to support you in that process. Today is a new day, and I look forward to meeting you.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Jessica Vazquez Tames

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT

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

Jessica has a Master of Arts In Clinical Counseling from Point Loma Nazarene University.

California

Specialties

Anger Management

Anxiety

Depression

Style

Practical

Warm

Supportive

Starting therapy is a courageous step, and I commend you for taking it. I am here to make this process feel helpful, supportive, and right for you.

Next appointmentSaturday, Apr 25th

Available virtually

Jennifer Harmon

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW

•

6+ years

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

Jennifer has a Social Worker (SW) from University of Utah.

California

Specialties

Anger Management

Addiction

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Style

Outcome-oriented

Candid

Supportive

I approach therapy as a partnership where you are the expert in your own life. I'm here to support you in reaching your goals and optimum health. I believe there is no one size fits all when it comes to therapy, so I tailor my approach based on your unique needs.

“I cannot explain how grateful I am to have Jennifer as my therapist. She’s changed my whole perspective on therapy and how I view myself.”

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Mike Denn

LCP

•

15+ years

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

Mike has a Doctor of Psychology (PSYD) from Trinity College of Graduate Studies.

Camarillo, CA

Specialties

Anger Management

Anxiety

Depression

Style

Exploratory

Gentle

Collaborative

My approach to therapy is called Rational Living Therapy. My focus is to make you better, not just feel better.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Stephen Serrato

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPCC

•

9+ years

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

Stephen has a Masters of Arts (MA) from Ottawa University.

Santa Clarita, CA

Specialties

Anger Management

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Stress

Style

Responsive

Attuned

Curious

I enjoy helping others and work with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Kevin Bagwell

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPCC

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

Kevin has a Master of Science (MS) in Human Services Counseling from National Louis University.

Pasadena, CA

Specialties

Anger Management

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Responsive

Candid

Collaborative

I know therapy might feel intimidating or overwhelming. Thank you for considering it, and I hope you give it a try. I work with individuals and families dealing with relational conflict, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I use a client-centered, eclectic approach tailored to your needs and meet you where you are.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Mya Williams

LCSW

•

4+ years

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

Mya has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis.

Los Angeles, CA

Specialties

Anger Management

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Self Esteem

Style

Exploratory

Attuned

Collaborative

I want to help you understand how thoughts and feelings link to actions. I like breaking those patterns we either don't like anymore, felt kept happening, or kept getting us in trouble.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

James Fandialan

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LPCC

•

6+ years

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

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

California

Specialties

Anger Management

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Style

Responsive

Warm

Motivational

I provide therapy to individuals, couples, families, adolescents, and children. My work focuses on helping people navigate life's challenges with compassion and practical support.

Next appointmentFriday, Apr 24th

Available virtually

Felipe Amaya

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW

•

18+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Felipe Amaya, 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.

Fontana, CA

Specialties

Anger Management

Anxiety

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

I work with individuals and families facing chronic illnesses, particularly those managing kidney failure and long-term dialysis. I also support Latino clients navigating language, cultural, and generational challenges. My goal is to help you live your best life and become the best version of yourself.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Jacqueline Garner

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW

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

Jacqueline has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from San Jose State University.

California

Specialties

Anger Management

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Life Transitions

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Supportive

I provide a safe, affirming space where you can speak your truth, reconnect with your strengths, and make sense of the challenges that brought you here. My focus is helping individuals and families move from surviving to thriving.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Jane Akponye

LMFT

•

4+ years

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

Jane has a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) in Counseling Psychology from University of Ibadan.

Pomona, CA

Specialties

Anger Management

Anxiety

Stress

Style

Directive

Candid

Empowering

African-American therapist, educator, and advocate from Nigeria, and author of Children of Divorced Parents. Founder of Elis Family Counseling in Pomona, CA. As a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I help people heal, grow, and celebrate life again.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Jeremy Acevedo

LCSW

•

7+ years

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

Jeremy has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Mental Health from University of Southern California.

California

Specialties

Anger Management

ADHD

Codependency

Coping Skills

Family Conflict

Relationship Issues

Style

Directive

Candid

Motivational

I help people process trauma and build practical skills for lasting change. My approach is solutions-focused and skills-based, grounded in direct feedback and accountability.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Toni Childs

LMFT

•

18+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Toni Childs, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can 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

Anger Management

Anxiety

Bipolar Disorder

Depression

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

I am committed to helping individuals, couples, and families improve their quality of life and create meaningful change.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

This set of providers was curated just for you.

Want personalized assistance finding the right fit? Call or text our team at 323-745-8323.

Previous providers

From our blog

View article

“I wish more people knew that anger and sadness are closely connected. Sometimes, when anger feels too strong, it comes out as tears instead of yelling or fighting. Crying doesn’t mean your anger isn’t real — it’s just another way to show your feelings.”

– Brandy Chalmers, LPC

View article

“I encourage clients to shift their perspective by recognizing that anger is often a protective response to unresolved trauma, and learning to process and express it can be a key step in healing and regaining control.”

– Brandy Chalmers, LPC

View article

“Anger can often feel more accessible than other emotions because it offers a sense of control, while emotions like fear or sadness often bring vulnerability. In therapy, people can safely explore what’s underneath their anger and begin to understand the deeper feelings driving it. This process builds emotional awareness and helps create healthier, more empowered ways to respond.”

– Ashley Ayala, LMFT

Hundreds of thousands of patients have found affordable, in-network mental health care with Rula

Insurance

After you select a provider, we’ll send you a personalized cost estimate before your first session—so you’ll know what to expect.

$15 / session

typical cost patients pay through Rula

Nationwide coverage:

After you select a provider, we’ll send you a personalized cost estimate before your first session—so you’ll know what to expect.

100+ insurance plans accepted

140M total lives covered

Millions of sessions completed

Network

We hold providers to high clinical standards so you can trust the care you receive.

15,000+

licensed providers

Match

The right provider makes all the difference. We help you find someone who truly fits your needs—the first time.

98%

of searches result in an exact match

Progress

Care should make a difference. Our approach helps you track progress you can feel.

93%

of patients report feeling better after treatment through Rula

Additional therapy specialties and modalities

Sex Therapy Trauma and PTSD Anxiety EMDR Dialectical (DBT)

Psychiatry Couples Family Children therapy Preteen therapy Teen therapy

Male therapists Female therapists Spanish-speaking therapists Black or African American therapists Asian therapists Hispanic or Latinx therapists

Understanding online therapy for anger management

Anger management and its role in daily life

Anger is a natural emotion, but frequent or intense feelings of anger can have a negative impact on your relationships, work, and overall well-being. Effective anger management is crucial for maintaining healthy interactions and emotional balance. The goal of anger management is to help you recognize and control anger triggers before they escalate so you can express anger in healthy, non-destructive ways.

The importance of therapy in managing anger

Therapy plays a key role in understanding and managing anger. Professional therapists can help you identify the underlying causes of your anger and develop strategies to respond to anger triggers more constructively. Addressing anger through therapy can prevent it from negatively impacting your life and relationships. It can also promote emotional growth, improved communication skills, and better stress management.

Common therapeutic approaches for anger management

Therapists can use various methods to help manage anger effectively. For example:

Advantages of online therapy for anger management

Online therapy can offer accessibility, convenience, and a comfortable setting for people seeking help with anger management. It removes the need for travel, making it easier to fit therapy sessions into a busy schedule. The privacy of attending sessions from home can also make it easier to discuss sensitive issues and emotions, fostering a more open and effective therapeutic experience.

Tips for choosing an anger management therapist

Look for a therapist trained in anger management and experienced with specific issues you may struggle with. When searching for a therapist, keep the following in mind:

FAQs about anger management therapy and therapists

When should I seek therapy for anger management?

Consider therapy if your anger is difficult to control, leads to regrettable actions, or negatively affects your relationships and work. Signs that you may benefit from anger management include:

Therapy can provide strategies to recognize and manage anger effectively, improving interactions and emotional health.

What is the typical duration of anger management therapy?

The length of anger management therapy depends on your specific needs and progress. It can range from short-term interventions focusing on immediate anger management techniques to long-term therapy that addresses deeper emotional issues. Ongoing assessments with your therapist can help tailor the therapy to your evolving needs.

What to expect during your first anger management therapy session?

In the first session, your therapist typically discusses your history with anger, your triggers, specific incidents that concern you, and how anger impacts your life. This conversation helps set the stage for understanding your specific challenges with anger and to begin exploring healthy coping mechanisms and outlets for frustrations. You may learn about the therapist's approach and establish the groundwork for a trusting therapeutic relationship.

How to find a qualified therapist for anger management?

A qualified anger management therapist should have relevant training and a license to practice in your state. Look for therapists with experience in anger management and check for any additional certifications or specialized training in effective anger management techniques.

Does insurance cover anger management therapy sessions?

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

Is anger management therapy available online?

Yes, anger management therapy can be conducted online, offering a flexible and private way to get help. Online therapy can provide the benefits of in-person therapy while accommodating your lifestyle and personal needs.

Connect with Therapists who accept Sierra Health and Life in California

Quality care comes first at Rula

Quality care comes first at Rula

Susan Lambert

Carl Quedenfeld

Jennifer Rondeau

Jessica Vazquez Tames

Jennifer Harmon

Mike Denn

Stephen Serrato

Kevin Bagwell

Mya Williams

James Fandialan

Felipe Amaya

Jacqueline Garner

Jane Akponye

Jeremy Acevedo

Toni Childs

From our blog

Hundreds of thousands of patients have found affordable, in-network mental health care with Rula

Insurance

$15 / session

Network

15,000+

Match

98%

Progress

93%

Additional therapy specialties and modalities

Find a therapist near you

We’re here when you need us

We’re here when you need us

Here to help