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

Herschel O'Brien

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC

•

2+ years

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

Herschel has a Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology from LPCC - Chapman University.

Visalia, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Gentle

Collaborative

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Visalia, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I support individuals' pursuit of understanding (self and relationship) and reaching their true potential.

Next appointmentFriday, Apr 24th

Available virtually

Zulema Moore

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

2+ years

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

Zulema has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Loma Linda University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

LGBTQIA+

Substance Use

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Insightful

Approachable

Motivational

I am passionate about working collaboratively with clients through challenges to experience healing and growth in their lives.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

William Hill

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

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

California

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Alcohol Use

Anxiety

Depression

Panic Attacks

Style

Exploratory

Gentle

Supportive

I’m a therapist who helps adults navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I bring both clinical training and lived experience to create a grounded, supportive space—where change is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Nancy Garcia

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

6+ years

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

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

I work with people seeking to rediscover and renew themselves through supportive counseling.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Denise Seidman

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

25+ years

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

Denise has a Master in Counseling (MC) in Counseling Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute.

Nipomo, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Relationship Issues

Style

Outcome-oriented

Gentle

Collaborative

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist using an integrative and holistic approach to see what fits you best. My focus areas include anxiety and depression, relationship and work issues, grief, life transitions, separation and divorce, and co-parenting issues.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Armando Ruan

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

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

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Depression

Self Esteem

Stress

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

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

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Imelda Avila

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

7+ years

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

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

Fresno, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Style

Directive

Candid

Supportive

I'm passionate about helping individuals through tough times. I believe in providing a safe space for healing where you can work through what matters most to you.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 27th

Available virtually

Helene Siegel

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

17+ years

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

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

Mission Viejo, CA

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Alcohol Use

Anxiety

Depression

Substance Use

Style

Responsive

Candid

Curious

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

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Sanya Litch

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC

•

2+ years

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

Sanya has a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy Concentration Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor from Pacific Oaks College.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

LGBTQIA+

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Responsive

Attuned

Collaborative

Everyone's needs are unique. I tailor my approach accordingly to assist you in acquiring awareness, making choices, and initiating those choices to overcome challenges. Some challenges that I focus on are depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and socio-cultural issues.

Next appointmentSunday, Apr 26th

Available virtually

Gloria Gonzales

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

6+ years

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

Gloria has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) in Clinical Psychology/Latino Counseling from Antioch University.

Ventura, CA

Specialties

Grief

Cultural Stress

Life Transitions

Relationship Issues

Style

Directive

Candid

Curious

I work with individuals, families, co-parents, and couples. My hope is to help you heal and live an abundant life filled with happiness. I believe our trials and mishaps can give us wisdom as we go through life. Every day is an opportunity to learn, heal, and change.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Ani Samsonyan

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

Ani has a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology: Emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University.

Burbank, CA

Specialties

Grief

Codependency

Divorce

Life Transitions

Relationship Issues

Self Esteem

Style

Directive

Candid

Collaborative

Taking steps to better yourself requires courage. I provide a non-judgmental space where you can be your true self. I support people navigating life's challenges, dealing with anxiety and depression, or seeking more meaning. I feel honored to work with clients willing to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Tiffany Lewis-Hill

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

3+ years

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

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

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Stress

Substance Use

Style

Responsive

Approachable

Motivational

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

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Scarlett Ramos

LCSW

•

9+ years

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

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

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Older Adult

Style

Outcome-oriented

Attuned

Collaborative

I specialize in helping adults and older adults navigate anxiety, depression, stress, and bereavement. My work focuses on creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your challenges and find practical solutions that improve your daily functioning and quality of life.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 27th

Available virtually

Leanne Gip

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

21+ years

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

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anger Management

Anxiety

Depression

Stress

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

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

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Dara D'Elia

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC

•

5+ years

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

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

Beaumont, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Stress

Suicidal Ideation

Style

Responsive

Attuned

Affirming

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

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Continue exploring providers

See more therapists that specialize in Grief

Previous providers

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

Insurance

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

$15 / session

typical cost patients pay through Rula

Nationwide coverage:

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

100+ insurance plans accepted

140M total lives covered

Millions of sessions completed

Network

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

15,000+

licensed providers

Match

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

98%

of searches result in an exact match

Progress

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

93%

of patients report feeling better after treatment through Rula

Additional therapy specialties and modalities

Sex Therapy Trauma and PTSD Anxiety EMDR Dialectical (DBT)

Psychiatry Couples Family Children therapy Preteen therapy Teen therapy

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

Exploring online therapy for grief

Grief and its impact on life

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

The importance of therapy for grief

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

Effective therapeutic approaches for grief

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

Advantages of online therapy for grief

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

Tips for choosing the right grief therapist

FAQs about grief therapy and therapists

When to seek a grief therapist?

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

What is the typical duration of therapy for grief?

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

What to expect in your first grief therapy session?

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

How to find a qualified therapist for grief?

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

Does insurance cover grief therapy sessions?

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

Can grief therapy be conducted online?

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

Connect with Therapists who accept Sierra Health and Life in California

Quality care comes first at Rula

Quality care comes first at Rula

Herschel O'Brien

Zulema Moore

William Hill

Nancy Garcia

Denise Seidman

Armando Ruan

Imelda Avila

Helene Siegel

Sanya Litch

Gloria Gonzales

Ani Samsonyan

Tiffany Lewis-Hill

Scarlett Ramos

Leanne Gip

Dara D'Elia

Continue exploring providers

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

Insurance

$15 / session

Network

15,000+

Match

98%

Progress

93%

Additional therapy specialties and modalities

Find a therapist near you

We’re here when you need us

We’re here when you need us

Here to help