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 USC PPO / EPO Plan in California

Book a session as soon as April 19

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

30+ therapists who accept USC PPO / EPO Plan

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

30+ therapists who accept USC PPO / EPO Plan

Kae Vitor

LPCC

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

Kae has a Master of Science (MS) Counseling Psychology from Azusa Pacific University.

California

Specialties

Anxiety

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Responsive

Gentle

Supportive

Starting therapy can feel uncomfortable, but I'm glad to see you here. I strive to create a comfortable space in which you can feel safe enough to be vulnerable and work together towards your goals.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Cassidy Phuong Pham

LMFT

•

4+ years

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

Cassidy has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University.

California

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Stress

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Insightful

Attuned

Motivational

I practice from a trauma-informed perspective and specialize in trauma. I believe that everyone deserves to be seen and heard.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Kelisha LaGrone

LMFT

•

6+ years

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

Kelisha has a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University, San Francisco Bay Area.

San Francisco, CA

Specialties

Divorce

Grief

Racial Identity

Spirituality

Women's Issues

Style

Responsive

Spiritual

Affirming

I meet clients where they are and collaborate to tailor treatment to their unique needs. My focus includes anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity integration, family or relationship conflict, and trauma.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Ashley Abarca

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT

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

Ashley has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) from Brandman University.

Victorville, CA

Specialties

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

LGBTQIA+

Relationship Issues

Style

Responsive

Approachable

Empowering

I walk alongside you as you discover who you are and what you need. Using a client-centered, non-directive approach, we'll explore healing methods and coping strategies for anxiety, depression, trauma, and identity concerns. I provide a supportive and affirming space for adults, younger adults, and teens, including the queer community and veterans.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Georgette Esquivel-Chand

LMFT

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

Georgette has a Master of Science (MS) Clinicial Counselor/Psychology/MSCP from Notre Dame De Namur University.

California

Specialties

Addiction

Anxiety

Depression

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Candid

Supportive

I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on understanding your unique experiences, with a deep commitment to addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and self-esteem concerns.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Michele Richter

LPCC

•

4+ years

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

Michele has a Master of Science (MS) Mental Health Counseling/Marriage & Family Therapy from Barry University.

Palm Springs, CA

Specialties

Addiction

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

I offer supportive counseling to children, adolescents, young and older adults, and families. I believe seeking therapy is a choice of immense inner strength—a choice that says you are ready to learn new things about yourself, grow, and live your best life.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Elizabeth Gonzalez

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW

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

Elizabeth has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Smith College.

California

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Racial Identity

Stress

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Affirming

Engaging in therapy opens so much potential for growth and healing—let's make that happen together. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, stress management, and trauma. I aim to provide a comfortable, empathic, and safe space for you to explore your internal world and external realities.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Clara J. Pellizzari

LCSW

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

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

California

Specialties

Coping Skills

Depression

Grief

Older Adult

Stress

Style

Responsive

Approachable

Supportive

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I provide compassionate, client-centered support to help individuals achieve emotional well-being and personal growth. We will work together to resolve issues as a team.

Next appointmentSunday, Apr 19th

Available virtually

Elaine Pritchard

LMFT

•

9+ years

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

Elaine has a Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology from John F Kennedy University.

Pleasanton, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Mood Disorders

Style

Outcome-oriented

Approachable

Affirming

My approach is to meet the client where they are at and help them process part of their journey. To help and have the honor to walk with clients in their journey for a time.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Virginia Alvizo

LMFT

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

Virginia has a Masters of Science in Counseling, Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy from University of Phoenix and a Master of Arts (MA) from University of Phoenix.

California

Specialties

Coping Skills

Cultural Stress

Parenting

Trauma and PTSD

Women's Issues

Style

Exploratory

Candid

Affirming

I have a very open-minded style, but can also be transparent to help motivate & challenge you. I specialize & enjoy working with others in Self-love, relationship stressors/issues, personal growth, individualization, stress management, communication, parenting skills, & so much more. Not providing couples/marriage therapy.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Georgia Panagiotou

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW

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

Georgia has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University San Marcos.

Carlsbad, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Life Transitions

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Practical

Gentle

Collaborative

Starting therapy can feel exciting and scary at the same time, I'm here to make sure this transition is meaningful and helpful. I specialize in working with individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I take a humanistic approach to therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs and meeting you where you are.

Next appointmentSunday, Apr 19th

Available virtually

Jennifer York

LMFT

•

3+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Jennifer York, 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 Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology/Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University.

Burbank, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Eating Disorders

Grief

Style

Insightful

Warm

Supportive

I believe in an attachment-based psychodynamic approach to healing. I love working with couples, individuals, and families.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

David Lutes

LCSW

•

5+ years

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

David has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Northern Kentucky University and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology (Major), Neuroscience (Minor) from Northern Kentucky University.

Santa Clara, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Bipolar Disorder

Coping Skills

Depression

Substance Use

Style

Responsive

Gentle

Curious

I am inspired to work with clients to help improve their understanding of and management of their unique mental health symptoms in an effort to improve their overall quality of life. My guiding goal is to create a comfortable and collaborative process in which we can work together toward improving your mental health.

“David is thoughtful, insightful, and kind. His guidance has been very helpful for me, and I highly recommend him.”

Next appointmentSunday, Apr 19th

Available virtually

Marina Tonkonogy

LMFT

•

16+ years

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

Marina has a Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy from Phillips Graduate Institute.

Woodland Hills, CA

Specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Stress

Style

Exploratory

Approachable

Curious

I’m a California-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience. My work is insight-oriented, drawing from Jungian and existential traditions. I work with those who feel emotionally or culturally out of place, or with individuals who long for connection but refuse to compromise on depth or integrity to find it.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Faith Reeves-Austin

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPCC

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

Faith has a Master of Science (MS) in Child Development Mental Health from San Diego State University.

San Diego, CA

Specialties

Cultural Stress

LGBTQIA+

Life Transitions

Racial Identity

Women's Issues

Style

Responsive

Attuned

Collaborative

In these unprecedented times, I am here to provide a safe and dependable space for you to decompress and navigate adversity. I support clients by empowering them to be their authentic selves, identifying tools to cope with everyday stressors, and addressing symptoms of systemic oppression contributing to the mental health epidemic in our country.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Continue exploring providers

See more providers

Previous providers

A closer look at Rula’s mental health providers in California

Specialty

Our providers specialize in a wide range of mental health needs, so you get care that truly fits you.

75

clinical specialties represented

Gender

You deserve a provider who understands your identity. Rula providers offer care that’s inclusive and affirming.

10

gender identities represented

Race & Ethnicity

Our providers represent a variety of backgrounds and cultures. Find providers who share or respect your lived experiences.

10

ethnicities represented across Rula providers

Therapy

Whether it’s stress, relationships, or personal growth, our therapists help you navigate what matters.

5,248

offer therapy

Psychiatry

Medication can be a key part of care. Our psychiatric providers offer expert guidance on what’s right for you.

89

offer medication management

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 psychodynamic therapy

What is psychodynamic therapy and how does it work?

Psychodynamic therapy is an approach that focuses on understanding the deeper, unconscious emotions and motivations that shape a person's behavior. It’s rooted in the belief that past experiences, particularly those from childhood, have a significant impact on current behavior and mental health. The therapy involves exploring these past experiences and their emotional aftermath to gain insights into present issues. The goal of this therapy is to identify patterns in your thoughts and behaviors, understand their origins, resolve inner conflicts, and work toward creating healthier relationships.

Psychodynamic therapy may not be the best treatment for your needs. It's important to understand the process and discuss this treatment method with a mental health professional.

Common issues addressed by psychodynamic therapy

Psychodynamic therapy can be effective for a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. It can be beneficial for individuals seeking to understand the deeper roots of their emotional difficulties and for those interested in exploring long standing personal patterns.

Potential benefits of online psychodynamic therapy

Online psychodynamic therapy offers the convenience and comfort of receiving treatment from your home. It's convenient for those with busy lives, limited mobility, or prefer the privacy of their own space. Plus, the online format lets you connect with licensed therapists throughout your state, even if they’re not in your local area.

What to expect during an online psychodynamic therapy session

During an online psychodynamic therapy session, you can expect to engage in open-ended discussions with your therapist about your life experiences, thoughts, feelings, and dreams. The focus of the therapy is to explore how past experiences, including those from childhood, may influence your current emotions and behaviors. Your therapist will help you explore these areas to gain deeper insight into your emotional world, with an emphasis on understanding patterns that may impact your present life. This approach promotes self-reflection and insight, aiming to address current challenges and enhance emotional well-being.

Choosing the right psychodynamic therapist

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

FAQs about online psychodynamic therapy

How effective is online psychodynamic therapy compared to in-person sessions?

Many find online psychodynamic therapy effective. Many therapists on the Rula platform have experience adapting psychodynamic therapy techniques for online formats. While some people may prefer in-person interactions, others find online therapy more convenient and less intimidating, which can help make sessions more effective.

Is psychodynamic therapy right for me?

Psychodynamic therapy may be best suited for people who wish to uncover the roots of their behaviors and emotional patterns in an effort to gain insight into their behaviors and emotional patterns and enhance their relationships.

How should I prepare for online psychodynamic sessions?

To get ready for online psychodynamic therapy, be prepared to explore and discuss your deeper emotions and past experiences. Psychodynamic therapy focuses on understanding how your early life experiences, subconscious thoughts, and recurring patterns influence your current behavior and feelings. Be open to discussing a wide range of topics, from childhood memories to your current thoughts and dreams.

How long does psychodynamic therapy typically last?

Psychodynamic therapy can vary in duration, often extending to long-term engagement depending on the depth and complexity of the issues being explored. The timeline is flexible and tailored to each individual's unique healing journey.

Are there any requirements for participating in online psychodynamic therapy?

You'll need a private, quiet space for uninterrupted video sessions along with a dependable internet connection and a device with a working webcam and microphone. You can commit to the process by keeping appointments, practicing techniques at home, journaling progress, and regularly discussing challenges with your therapist.

Quality care comes first at Rula

Quality care comes first at Rula

Continue exploring providers

A closer look at Rula’s mental health providers in California

Specialty

75

Gender

10

Race & Ethnicity

10

Therapy

5,248

Psychiatry

89

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

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We’re here when you need us

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