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

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

ADHD

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

Richard Meza

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW

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

Richard has a Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) from California State University, San Bernardino.

California

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Self Esteem

Style

Outcome-oriented

Attuned

Collaborative

I know seeking therapeutic help isn't always the easiest thing to do, but I applaud you for taking the first step on the journey. I specialize in working with individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma.

Next appointmentTomorrow

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

ADHD

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

Cynthia Obershaw

LCSW

•

20+ years

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

Cynthia has a Master of Social Work from Loma Linda University.

California

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Style

Directive

Gentle

Collaborative

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I believe that you can heal yourself with guidance and understanding. I am passionate about providing gentle guidance, support, and understanding in the therapeutic journey.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Jeffrey Robertson

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT

•

7+ years

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

Jeffrey has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) in Child Studies Specialization from Antioch University.

Winnetka, CA

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Bipolar Disorder

Coping Skills

LGBTQIA+

Style

Insightful

Gentle

Curious

I want you to feel empowered to lead the direction of each session. My special areas of focus include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, relationship issues, autism, health, and body/mind connections.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Erica Schwartz

LCSW

•

21+ years

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

Erica has a Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) Children and Family Services from University of Texas, Austin.

California

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Stress

Style

Outcome-oriented

Warm

Motivational

I use a combination of approaches, including CBT and Solution-Focused therapy, to help you achieve your goals. My focus is on depression, anxiety, grief and loss, parenthood, and stress management.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

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

ADHD

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 appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Gian Michael Sarabia

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT

•

1+ years

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

Gian Michael has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Santa Clara University.

California

Specialties

ADHD

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

Bipolar Disorder

Codependency

Personality Disorders

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Directive

Attuned

Motivational

I work with clients to manage a variety of mental health challenges. I use evidence-based approaches, with emotional attunement, authentically, using gentle confrontations when appropriate, while holding solid clinical boundaries. I tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique needs.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Julie Crist

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT

•

4+ years

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

Julie has a Master in Counseling (MC) MFT from San Jose Western Seminary.

Escondido, CA

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Divorce

Life Transitions

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Responsive

Warm

Supportive

I am passionate about empowering individuals to thrive in life. Therapy is essential for uncovering and understanding self-destructive behaviors and working through, not around, loss and grief.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Katie McBain

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT

•

7+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Katie McBain, 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.

Lompoc, CA

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Substance Use

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

I work with individuals facing a wide range of challenges, from substance use and autism to schizophrenia. My goal is to help you overcome life challenges, improve your quality of life, and achieve your personal goals.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Jorge Sandoval

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT

•

10+ years

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

Jorge has a Master in Counseling (MC), Counseling Psychology from National University and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology from University of California - San Diego.

California

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Self Esteem

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Practical

Approachable

Empowering

You are the person who has been holding it together for everyone else, but inside, you feel like you are barely making it. I will walk alongside you in your journey to self-discovery. I'm here to help you feel less stuck and make the necessary changes to achieve your goals and create the life you desire. I am fluent in Spanish and English.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Michelle Gutierrez

LMFT

•

2+ years

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

Michelle has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pacific Oaks College.

Ventura, CA

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Self Esteem

Style

Exploratory

Spiritual

Curious

I work with adults and teens experiencing anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. My integrative approach honors your individuality and meets you where you are.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Aaron Jarrels

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LMFT

•

5+ years

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

Aaron has a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from Marriage and Family Therapist - National University.

California

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Stress

Style

Responsive

Approachable

Empowering

I assist clients by sharing a new way to understand what they are experiencing, releasing them from their current state.

“Aaron is easy to talk to and makes a safe space for us to be ourselves and talk freely. We appreciate his approach to therapy, having realistic expectations, and keeping us on track with our goals. He also has a friendly, positive energy that helps sessions from feeling so heavy at times.”

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Jessica Rowinsky

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW

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

Jessica has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Portland State University.

Santa Rosa, CA

Specialties

ADHD

Child Abuse or Neglect

Sexual Abuse

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Insightful

Warm

Supportive

If you're finding it difficult to cope with past experiences or struggling to move forward, know that you are not alone. I support children, families, and adolescents in healing and finding hope and resilience after traumatic events, stress, and grief. I believe healing involves addressing trauma while increasing self-compassion and reducing shame.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 27th

Available virtually

Amanda Gaddis

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LMFT

•

3+ years

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

Amanda has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Touro University Worldwide.

Lake Elsinore, CA

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Relationship Issues

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Candid

Curious

I believe in a strength-based approach to solving problems, renewing hope, and building new skills. Everyone can benefit from feeling seen, heard, and understood. Finding a therapist you can connect with is an integral part of the therapeutic process.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Continue exploring providers

See more therapists that specialize in ADHD

Previous providers

From our blog

View article

“Recognize when your thoughts start looping, and gently shift focus to the present through grounding techniques. With practice and self-compassion, you can train your brain to break free from overthinking and negative self-talk.”

– Ashley Ayala, LMFT

View article

“Children with inattentive ADHD can receive negative reactions from the adults in their lives who don’t understand the diagnosis and what it entails. This can greatly shape a child’s self-image if they are frequently being criticized and met with frustration or anger.”

– Ashley Ayala, LMFT

View article

“A common challenge people face when managing both ADHD and hypervigilance is feeling constantly overstimulated and mentally exhausted. ADHD makes it hard to filter distractions, while hypervigilance keeps the nervous system on high alert. These experiences make it difficult to relax, focus, or feel safe even in calm environments.”

– 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

Navigating online therapy for ADHD

ADHD and its effects on daily life

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is more than just difficulty with focus or hyperactivity. It's a complex neurological condition that can significantly affect various aspects of life, including work, relationships, and self-esteem. People with ADHD may struggle with impulsiveness, disorganization, and maintaining attention, which can lead to challenges in both personal and professional settings.

Why therapy is crucial for ADHD management

Seeking therapy for ADHD can be key to understanding and managing its symptoms. Therapists can provide insights into how ADHD impacts your mental well-being and offer practical strategies for managing its symptoms. Therapy can also address common co-occurring issues such as low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. Meeting with a therapist can improve focus, organization, and emotional regulation, improving your quality of life.

Effective therapeutic approaches for ADHD

Various therapy approaches can be effective in managing ADHD, each catering to different needs:

Advantages of online therapy for ADHD

Online therapy offers a convenient and accessible way to receive support for ADHD. It can remove the need for travel, making it easier for people with ADHD to have regular therapy sessions. The flexibility of online therapy makes it possible to fit therapy appointments into many schedules. Additionally, receiving therapy from the comfort of your own home can create a relaxed environment that is good for open communication and focus.

Choosing the right therapist for ADHD

FAQs about ADHD therapy and therapists

When to seek therapy for ADHD?

Consider therapy if ADHD symptoms have a negative impact on work, school, or relationships. Therapy for ADHD may also be helpful if you’re struggling with associated issues like time management or low self-esteem. Therapy can provide strategies for managing daily challenges, improving focus, and enhancing overall well-being.

What's the typical duration of ADHD therapy?

The duration of ADHD therapy varies based on personal needs and the severity of symptoms. Some people might see improvements with short-term therapy, while others may benefit from longer-term support. Therapy often involves ongoing collaboration with your therapist to adjust strategies and approaches as needed.

What to expect in your first ADHD therapy session?

In the first session, you’ll likely discuss your ADHD symptoms, challenges, and goals with your therapist. This conversation sets the stage for creating a tailored treatment plan. It’s also an opportunity for you to understand the therapist’s approach and build a comfortable therapeutic relationship.

How to find a qualified therapist for ADHD?

A qualified therapist for ADHD will have relevant training and a license to practice therapy in your state. Look for therapists with specific experience in ADHD treatment. Ask about any additional qualifications or training they have related to managing ADHD symptoms.

Does insurance cover ADHD therapy sessions?

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

Is ADHD therapy available online?

Yes, ADHD therapy is available and can be effective online. It offers the flexibility and convenience of attending sessions from a comfortable and secure location, making it a practical option for those seeking help managing ADHD.

Connect with Therapists who accept Sierra Health and Life in California

Quality care comes first at Rula

Quality care comes first at Rula

Carl Quedenfeld

Richard Meza

Jessica Vazquez Tames

Cynthia Obershaw

Jeffrey Robertson

Erica Schwartz

Toni Childs

Gian Michael Sarabia

Julie Crist

Katie McBain

Jorge Sandoval

Michelle Gutierrez

Aaron Jarrels

Jessica Rowinsky

Amanda Gaddis

Continue exploring providers

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