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

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

Michael Kessler

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

Michael has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Individual, Family and Group from San Francisco State University.

Santa Rosa, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Gender Identity

LGBTQIA+

Transgender Issues

Style

Responsive

Candid

Collaborative

I'm a genderqueer, transmasculine, pansexual therapist. I specialize in serving LGBTQIA+ people around exploring gender & attractions, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, dating & sex, coming out, family & relationship issues, body image & neurodivergence, among other things.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 27th

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

Giulia Marcone

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

3+ years

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

Giulia has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from National University.

San Diego, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Life Transitions

Men's Issues

Sexual Addiction

Style

Responsive

Approachable

Collaborative

I provide individual, couples, family, children, and youth counseling in a tele-therapy format. It would be my privilege to offer a safe and collaborative space for bringing change and growth that will move you toward your desired goals in life.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Melissa Thomas

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

20+ years

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

Melissa has a Master of Arts (MA) in MFT from Western Seminary San Jose Campus.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Parenting

Stress

Style

Exploratory

Spiritual

Curious

I work with women navigating betrayal trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. With experience supporting foster and adopted children through trauma, I understand how past wounds shape present struggles. I offer sessions that integrate psychology and spirituality.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 27th

Available virtually

Jalee Carder

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

7+ years

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

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

Los Angeles, CA

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Style

Outcome-oriented

Approachable

Collaborative

My goal is to create a space that feels warm, grounded, and open—a place where you can show up just as you are. I want you to feel safe enough to talk about whatever's on your mind, without pressure or judgment. I work with adults facing challenges like anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, trauma, and relationship stress.

“We have come a long way in our healing and Jalee has been nothing but supportive and productive in making that happen.”

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 28th

Available virtually

Dr. Monique Hicks

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

8+ years

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

Dr. Monique has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Grand Canyon University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Style

Responsive

Spiritual

Collaborative

I utilize a range of interventions and techniques tailored to you. I have extensive experience working with all populations. If you are experiencing difficulties or want to learn techniques to obtain emotional, spiritual, and mental stability, I am here to assist you in attaining your therapeutic goals.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 27th

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 appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Jennifer Rauch

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

3+ years

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

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

Carlsbad, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Relationship Issues

Self Esteem

Style

Outcome-oriented

Candid

Collaborative

I am an LCSW with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and I would love to help you find your way through life's problems. I provide counseling services to older youths and adults facing problems at school, work, or in their personal lives. I primarily use CBT as a tool to help my clients reach their goals in a timely manner.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Eunice Chen

LCSW

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

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

California

Specialties

Grief

Aging

Anxiety

Chronic Illness

Depression

Older Adult

Style

Exploratory

Approachable

Collaborative

I work with adults, young adults, older adults, immigrants, and first-generation individuals navigating life’s transitions. I support clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and grief, as well as those seeking greater clarity, confidence, and emotional well-being.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 28th

Available virtually

Darlene Obregon

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

2+ years

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

Darlene has a Master in Counseling (MC) in Marriage, Family and Child Counseling from California State University, Sacramento.

Sacramento, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Trauma and PTSD

Women's Issues

Style

Insightful

Approachable

Motivational

I work with clients, couples, and families on uncovering the roots of their presenting problems and helping them find new ways of healing so they can live a more fulfilling life.

“Darlene has been great with my daughter since the first session. My daughter really likes and enjoys talking to her. She provides a lot of support.”

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 28th

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

Grief

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Depression

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

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

Grief

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

Fernando Vinuela

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

10+ years

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

Fernando has a Master of Arts (MA) in CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY/ MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY from Pepperdine University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Cultural Stress

Depression

Family Conflict

Life Transitions

Style

Practical

Candid

Collaborative

I am a therapist with a Rogerian foundation. My areas of focus are anxiety, depression, family-stage changes, and immigrant families.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Samantha Velazquez

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

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

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Mood Disorders

Stress

Style

Responsive

Candid

Supportive

The first step toward therapy is showing up. Congratulations on already taking that step. I'm here to help you feel seen, heard, and supported throughout your therapeutic journey. I work with individuals navigating depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, relationship challenges, and the lasting impact of trauma.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

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

Sanya Litch

Michael Kessler

Nancy Garcia

Giulia Marcone

Melissa Thomas

Jalee Carder

Dr. Monique Hicks

Zulema Moore

Jennifer Rauch

Eunice Chen

Darlene Obregon

Dolores Estrada

Shirley Duarte

Fernando Vinuela

Samantha Velazquez

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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