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

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

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

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

Eleana Coll

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

7+ years

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

Eleana has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from San Francisco State University.

Los Angeles, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Alcohol Use

Depression

Substance Use

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Outcome-oriented

Attuned

Affirming

I am a bilingual/bicultural Spanish-speaking psychotherapist working with children, adults, adolescents, and families who have experienced trauma, abuse, crime victimization, and immigration/acculturation issues.

“This is my first time having consistent therapy, and I am so pleased with her services. I am happy I was able to come across her profile and that her schedule works with mine. She is flexible and understanding. She has made therapy a positive experience for me when in the past I have had a lot of issues.”

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

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

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

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

Karim Khalil

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

2+ years

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

Karim has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) in Marriage And Family Therapy from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

Irvine, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Panic Attacks

Stress

Style

Exploratory

Candid

Curious

I work with Adults and specialize in anxiety and stress disorders using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help my clients explore their emotions, develop coping skills, and achieve positive life changes.

Next appointmentFriday, Apr 24th

Available virtually

Perla Campos Ruiz

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

4+ years

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

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

Los Angeles, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Depression

Domestic Violence

Stress

Style

Exploratory

Approachable

Curious

I provide compassionate, client-centered therapy to individuals and families. I specialize in supporting survivors of crime and domestic violence, as well as families navigating challenges with child welfare systems. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative, and grounded in building trust and resilience.

Next appointmentTomorrow

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

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

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

Shirley Duarte

LMFT

•

10+ years

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

Shirley has a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University.

Santa Clarita, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Developmental Disorders

Life Transitions

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Practical

Attuned

Empowering

I am a compassionate and motivated therapist with excellent listening skills, capable of quickly building rapport with clients.

Next appointmentSunday, Apr 26th

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

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

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

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

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

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

Anxiety

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

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

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Jennifer Carrillo

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

7+ years

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

Jennifer has a Master of Science (MS) from University of La Verne.

Claremont, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Stress

Style

Outcome-oriented

Warm

Collaborative

What is meaningful in your life? What do you find fulfilling? Life can be a difficult road with ups and downs, rejections, barriers, and areas of uncertainty. I look forward to working with you and finding your customized goals in therapy while applying different modalities.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Darcia Johnson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC

•

5+ years

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

Darcia has a Master of Science (MS) from Georgia State University.

California

Specialties

Anxiety

Addiction

Depression

Style

Responsive

Warm

Supportive

My hope is that all those seeking therapy find an excellent professional match. Those who might work best with me include those looking for a compassionate and active listener. A client seeking a warm and collaborative relationship with their therapist. A client who is attracted to a strengths-based approach to therapy.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Dolores Estrada

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

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

Santa Clarita, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Depression

Grief

Stress

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Supportive

I have experience working with children, adolescents, and families who have experienced trauma, grief/loss, chronic illness, and other life challenges. I bring compassion, experience, and am committed to your goals.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 27th

Available virtually

Megan Bright

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

10+ years

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

Megan has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) from Chapman College.

California

Specialties

Anxiety

Life Transitions

Self Esteem

Women's Issues

Style

Exploratory

Approachable

Empowering

YOU are important. I am honored to be your therapist and assist you in navigating and implementing the tools necessary to take you from surviving to THRIVING. My specialties include working with young adults and women's issues.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

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

Anxiety

Cultural Stress

Grief

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

Continue exploring providers

See more therapists that specialize in Anxiety

Previous providers

From our blog

View article

“In my experience, many clients mistakenly believe that impulsive actions provide immediate relief from anxiety, not realizing that these behaviors often lead to deeper feelings of regret and increased anxiety later on.”

– Brandy Chalmers, LPC

View article

“If anxiety seems random, try noting what happened just before — who you were with, how you felt, and if you overrode any personal boundaries. Often, hidden triggers come from subtle discomforts or internal conflicts that aren't obvious in the moment. Therapy can be a powerful space to explore these patterns, helping you build awareness and respond with more clarity and self-compassion.”

– Ashley Ayala, LMFT

View article

“Many people believe that anxiety is just a personality flaw or a sign of weakness. In reality, it's a legitimate mental health condition that can be effectively treated.”

– randy Chalmers, LPC

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 anxiety

Anxiety and its impact on mental health

Anxiety is a natural response to stress that can create feelings of worry, nervousness, or unease about certain events or situations. While occasional anxiety is normal, excessive or constant anxiety may interfere with your daily activities, work, and relationships. This can impact your quality of life and negatively affect your physical and emotional well-being.

Importance of seeking therapy for anxiety

Seeking therapy can be important if you’re struggling with anxiety. Your therapists can help identify the root causes of your anxiety and provide strategies to manage your symptoms. Early intervention can also help prevent the development of more severe anxiety disorders and reduce the risk of developing other mental health issues. Therapy for anxiety can help improve your overall well-being, self-esteem, and your ability to cope with life's challenges.

Common therapeutic approaches for anxiety

Therapists use several therapeutic approaches to address specific aspects of anxiety. For example:

Potential benefits of online therapy for anxiety

Online therapy for anxiety presents several potential benefits that often make it a more appealing choice compared to in-person therapy. It eliminates logistical challenges, enabling you to connect with licensed therapists throughout your state, even if they’re not in your local area. With online therapy, scheduling sessions become more flexible, fitting into your daily routine. Additionally, participating in therapy sessions from the comfort of your home can enhance feelings of safety, privacy, and comfort.

Tips for choosing an anxiety therapist

FAQs about anxiety therapy and anxiety therapists

When should I seek treatment for anxiety?

If anxiety symptoms often disrupt your daily life or cause intense distress, you may benefit from professional treatment. Some signs that anxiety has become problematic include excessive worrying, constant nervousness, physical symptoms like a racing heart or shortness of breath, sleep issues, or avoiding certain situations. Seeking help early on can prevent anxiety from worsening into a more severe disorder and improve mental health overall. Therapy provides a supportive environment to get to the root of your anxiety, build healthy coping strategies, and learn techniques to keep symptoms under control.

How long does anxiety therapy typically last?

The duration of anxiety therapy depends on several factors – the severity of your symptoms, how quickly you improve, and the methods used by your therapist. Anxiety therapy may last a few weeks to several months or may continue for over a year. Your therapist should review your progress and adjust your treatment as needed to ensure the best approach for you.

What should I expect during my first anxiety therapy session?

In your first anxiety therapy session, your therapist may ask about your history, symptoms, and goals for treatment. You and your therapist should also discuss their recommended therapy approach, confidentiality, and expectations. During this initial visit, you’ll be able to ask many questions and establish rapport with your new therapist!

How do I know if a therapist is qualified to treat anxiety disorders?

Qualified anxiety therapists typically hold a degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, and have a license to practice in your state. Look for therapists with experience treating anxiety disorders and other relevant certifications, such as specialized training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Will my insurance cover the cost of anxiety therapy sessions?

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

Can anxiety therapy be done online or through teletherapy?

Yes! Anxiety therapy can be done online via video calls. Rula offers online therapy for increased accessibility, convenience, and comfort for many people seeking help for anxiety.

Connect with Therapists who accept Sierra Health and Life in California

Quality care comes first at Rula

Quality care comes first at Rula

Tiffany Lewis-Hill

Eleana Coll

Denise Seidman

Karim Khalil

Perla Campos Ruiz

Imelda Avila

Shirley Duarte

Sanya Litch

Dara D'Elia

Nancy Garcia

Jennifer Carrillo

Darcia Johnson

Dolores Estrada

Megan Bright

Gloria Gonzales

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