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 20

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

Mohamed Ali El Ghawil

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC

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

Mohamed has a Master of Arts (MA) from Chicago School of Professional Psychology and a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from University of Tripoli.

California

Specialties

Grief

Coping Skills

Men's Issues

Sleep or Insomnia

Sports Performance

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Responsive

Attuned

Empowering

The first steps to your healing journey have already begun. Congratulations on taking the initiative and overcoming the fear of reaching out for support.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Carmen Alegria

LCSW

•

1+ years

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

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

Lost Hills, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Stress

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Outcome-oriented

Attuned

Motivational

My focus includes working with clients who experience anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and stress.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Elena Alvarez

LPCC

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

Elena has a Master's in Counseling (MC) from Loyola Marymount University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Mood Disorders

Stress

Style

Outcome-oriented

Approachable

Supportive

I have been in the field for 9+ years, supporting clients through various difficulties and challenges. Throughout these years, I have learned that the best approach is collaborative, with the client as the main focus. I am here to provide a supportive and safe space where you can be yourself and achieve your goals.

Next appointmentFriday, Apr 24th

Available virtually

Marie Fort

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC

•

7+ years

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

Marie has a Master of Science (MS) from Indiana University Bloomington and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology from Brigham Young University Idaho.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Self Esteem

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Outcome-oriented

Gentle

Motivational

I understand how difficult it can be to find support when you're suffering from anxiety, depression, past trauma, abuse, or relationship challenges. These issues can be overwhelming, but I am here to help you overcome the roadblocks you face.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Margarita Araiza-Johnston

LCSW

•

16+ years

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

Margarita has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Tulane School of Social Work.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

LGBTQIA+

Style

Exploratory

Gentle

Motivational

My areas of expertise include assessment, child abuse and neglect, bilingual therapy, family systems, domestic violence, crisis counseling, and suicide prevention.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Norine Campbell

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCP

•

3+ years

Licensed Clinical Psychologists (LCPs), like Norine Campbell, hold a doctoral degree and are trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Norine has a Doctor of Psychology (PSYD) from Alliant International University.

San Bernardino, CA

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Anger Management

Anxiety

Behavioral Issues

Style

Outcome-oriented

Candid

Collaborative

My approach to therapy is to develop a trusting therapeutic relationship so that the focus can be on healing in a nonjudgmental and safe space in order to move toward positive change.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Melissa Donate

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Melissa Donate, 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 Counseling Psychology from National University.

El Cajon, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

LGBTQIA+

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Curious

My passion is helping people navigate the difficulties of life. I am bilingual (English/Spanish). Se habla español.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Amina Habib

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

Amina has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Marital and Family Therapy from Notre Dame De Namur University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Depression

Substance Use

Style

Exploratory

Approachable

Collaborative

I help individuals navigate life's challenges with compassion, clarity, and support. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely. Therapy is a collaborative journey, and my goal is to empower you with the tools and insights needed to foster growth, healing, and lasting change.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Salina Golightly-Mondragon

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

6+ years

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

Salina has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Dominguez Hills.

Riverside, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Mood Disorders

Panic Attacks

Style

Outcome-oriented

Attuned

Supportive

I work as a Mental Health Therapist with a primary focus in Individual Therapy and Couples/Marital Counseling.

Next appointmentFriday, Apr 24th

Available virtually

Emmanuel Torres

LCSW

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

Emmanuel has a Master of Social Work (MSW) Generalist/Child Welfare/Mental Health/Marco from California State University, Northridge.

Granada Hills, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Stress

Style

Exploratory

Candid

Curious

Thank you for visiting my page, and congratulations on taking a meaningful step toward growth. Life can be challenging, and at times, our personal and professional worlds can feel overwhelming. Stress, anxiety, relationship issues, and life transitions can deeply impact how we show up at work, at home, and within ourselves.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Ramon Ortega-Caballero

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

3+ years

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

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

Santa Clarita, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

LGBTQIA+

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Curious

I'm a compassionate therapist who offers a welcoming space for healing, growth, and self-discovery. With a deep commitment to inclusivity, I work with individuals from all walks of life—including Latina/o, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ communities. I support clients through childhood trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, and domestic violence.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Deborah Parham

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

10+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Deborah Parham, 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.

Hanford, CA

Specialties

Grief

Relapse Prevention

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

I help people working through personality, mood, and psychotic disorders, as well as those seeking support for trauma and emotional regulation.

“She makes me feel heard and really tries to understand what I am explaining.”

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Adrian Reveles

LCSW

•

3+ years

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

Adrian has a Master of Social Work in Adult Mental Health & Wellness from University of Southern California.

San Pedro, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

LGBTQIA+

Substance Use

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Responsive

Gentle

Collaborative

I specialize in reducing symptoms stemming from trauma, grief, substance abuse, work stress, partner conflict, and family stress. I help you move forward through healing, managing anxiety, and empowerment.

Next appointmentSunday, Apr 26th

Available virtually

Shawn Polivoi

LCSW

•

20+ years

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

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

Oakland, CA

Specialties

Grief

Aging

Anxiety

Depression

Mood Disorders

Style

Outcome-oriented

Candid

Curious

My approach is to meet you where you are and help you get where you want to be. I work with adults and older adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I believe in creating a warm, collaborative space where we can explore what's bringing you to therapy and work together toward meaningful change.

“Homeboy allowed me to express myself and made me feel good about the accomplishments that I have achieved throughout the Therapy. Asked the hard hitting questions and got me thinking on doing better.”

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Mercedes Serafini

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

15+ years

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

Mercedes has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Children, Youth and Families from California State University, Long Beach.

Long Beach, CA

Specialties

Grief

Aging

Stress

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Directive

Gentle

Collaborative

I'm a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist passionate about helping others heal. I work with children, adults, and older adults facing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and immigration or acculturation challenges. My goal is to provide a safe environment where you can feel comfortable opening up to healing and self-discovery.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

This set of providers was curated just for you.

Want personalized assistance finding the right fit? Call or text our team at 323-745-8323.

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 USC PPO / EPO Plan in California

Quality care comes first at Rula

Quality care comes first at Rula

Mohamed Ali El Ghawil

Carmen Alegria

Elena Alvarez

Marie Fort

Margarita Araiza-Johnston

Norine Campbell

Melissa Donate

Amina Habib

Salina Golightly-Mondragon

Emmanuel Torres

Ramon Ortega-Caballero

Deborah Parham

Adrian Reveles

Shawn Polivoi

Mercedes Serafini

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