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

Bahman Ghahremani

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

3+ years

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

Bahman has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Northridge.

North Hollywood, CA

Specialties

Grief

Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Psychosis

Relationship Issues

Sexual Abuse

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Attuned

Curious

I have experience treating early and complex traumas across the lifespan, including physical and sexual abuse. I work with psychosis and obsessive-compulsive disorders. I also support relationship concerns with peers, friends, family, partners, and spouses. I believe your relationship with yourself sets the standard for all others.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Ylissa Aquino

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

5+ years

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

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

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Stress

Style

Exploratory

Attuned

Collaborative

I’m an LCSW (CA), a CBT- centered, trauma-informed therapist blending narrative and psychodynamic tools with mindfulness and skills practice. I specialize in ADHD/AuDHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, family-of-origin dynamics, boundaries, burnout, grief, and life transitions.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Julio Merlan

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

Julio has a Master of Ats in Clinical Social Work At California State University San Bernardino.

California

Specialties

Grief

Depression

Domestic Violence

LGBTQIA+

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Directive

Candid

Supportive

I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy and forensic services, offering compassionate, tailored support for adults, including survivors and perpetrators of domestic violence. My goal is to provide a safe, judgment-free space where you can feel seen, heard, and empowered to work through life's challenges.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Laura Ryan

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

49+ years

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

Laura has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Sacramento.

Aliso Viejo, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Mood Disorders

Trauma and PTSD

Women's Issues

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

I provide counseling to individuals, couples, and families dealing with anxiety, depression, workplace stress, grief, traumatic loss, and emotional trauma. My practice focuses on helping people navigate common life challenges as well as more complex traumatic experiences.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Renee Davis

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

18+ years

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

Renee has a Master in Counseling (MC) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Hope International University.

Riverside, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Codependency

Depression

Relationship Issues

Style

Outcome-oriented

Attuned

Collaborative

I enjoy working with couples and individuals. I specialize in sexual addiction, recovery, affair repair, depression, and anxiety. I am able to teach dialectical behavioral therapy to help balance mood and create a life worth living.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Jackeline Gonzalez

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Jackeline Gonzalez, 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

Grief

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Depression

Stress

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Responsive

Attuned

Affirming

I am a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey toward self-understanding, emotional well-being, and personal growth. I believe that every person has the inner strength and resilience to overcome life’s challenges. My role is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Soua Mary Vang

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

Soua Mary has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northcentral University.

Manteca, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Cultural Stress

Depression

Trauma and PTSD

Women's Issues

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

I understand that prioritizing mental health is vital for achieving true happiness and stability. My holistic approach addresses your unique needs, integrating personal experiences with proven practices. I'm committed to guiding you in sharing your story, fostering self-awareness, and unlocking your full potential.

Next appointmentSaturday, Apr 25th

Available virtually

Denenea Conner-Tillman

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

16+ years

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

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

Moreno Valley, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Codependency

Depression

Life Transitions

Substance Use

Style

Practical

Approachable

Curious

My approach to therapy is person-centered, empathic, and compassionate. I have worked with adults to address anxiety, depression, codependency, life transitions, stress, relationships, and substance use issues.

Next appointmentSaturday, Apr 25th

Available virtually

Darin Deterra

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

38+ years

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

Darin has a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) IN Psychology from Sierra University.

Encinitas, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

LGBTQIA+

Substance Use

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Outcome-oriented

Spiritual

Affirming

I'm a holistic therapist and healer with specialties in client-centered therapy, trauma work, somatic therapy, emotional intelligence, couples counseling, and depth work. I help people transform their lives by addressing the deep connections between physical, mental, spiritual, and financial health.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Tara Doshier, LCSW, PMH-C

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Tara Doshier, LCSW, PMH-C, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Tara has a Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) from University of Texas, Austin.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Mood Disorders

Stress

Style

Responsive

Approachable

Curious

I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 27th

Available virtually

Teresa Ronquillo

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

1+ years

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

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

San Bernardino, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Depression

Self Esteem

Stress

Style

Responsive

Approachable

Curious

I take a collaborative approach, meeting patients where they are, and focusing sessions on meeting treatment goals. As an MFT, my focus areas include relationship counseling, anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, identity, and self-esteem.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Jamila Leander

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

7+ years

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

Jamila has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, San Bernardino.

Corona, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Candid

Curious

"Vulnerability is not a sign of weakness. It's a sign of strength, resilience, and compassion for oneself." Greetings, I am an LCSW based in California. I received my Master's from California State University, San Bernardino, and have been practicing for over 5 years. I enjoy helping individuals unlock strengths and maximize living their life.

Next appointmentFriday, Apr 24th

Available virtually

Stephanee Holmes

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

Stephanee has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Bakersfield.

Bakersfield, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Self Esteem

Stress

Style

Exploratory

Approachable

Collaborative

Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and finding the right person makes all the difference. If you're looking for someone who will truly listen, support you without judgment, and help you make sense of life's challenges, you're in the right place. I'm passionate about helping people build confidence, heal, and feel more grounded.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Cierra Paulson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

Cierra has a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from University of San Francisco.

Vacaville, CA

Specialties

Grief

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Approachable

Curious

I'm excited to meet you. Therapy can be a big step towards choosing yourself, and I am honored to be part of your journey. I specialize in working with adults navigating life transitions, relationship dynamics, first responder trauma, and related challenges.

Next appointmentFriday, Apr 24th

Available virtually

Frances Crean

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

14+ years

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

Frances has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Hawaii.

La Quinta, CA

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Anxiety

Life Transitions

Style

Outcome-oriented

Candid

Curious

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Your goals are of utmost importance, and understanding barriers that could be in the way is often the path to success. Issues such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, excessive worry, substance misuse, work-related stressors, and life transitions of every kind are the focus areas of my practice.

“My therapist has lived experience, so she knows what she's talking about. She seems curious and approaches our discussion with kindness and has given me actual guidance, with suggestions of how I can work on my issues on my own between sessions too. Her method is already proving to be helpful and I feel like I click with her. I don't feel embarrassed about sharing things and I am beginning to feel lighter. I am so grateful”

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

Bahman Ghahremani

Ylissa Aquino

Julio Merlan

Laura Ryan

Renee Davis

Jackeline Gonzalez

Soua Mary Vang

Denenea Conner-Tillman

Darin Deterra

Tara Doshier, LCSW, PMH-C

Teresa Ronquillo

Jamila Leander

Stephanee Holmes

Cierra Paulson

Frances Crean

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

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