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

Malcolm Redmond

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

Malcolm has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Depression

Parenting

Stress

Style

Insightful

Attuned

Curious

This is a space for reflection, healing, and growth; somewhere you can explore your experiences with openness and compassion. Together, we’ll work toward understanding your challenges and creating meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Jeffrey Bellissimo

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

4+ years

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

Jeffrey has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Los Angeles.

Los Angeles, CA

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Alcohol Use

Anxiety

Relapse Prevention

Substance Use

Style

Insightful

Approachable

Motivational

My approach is straightforward: I help clients identify the root cause of their suffering and access their inner strengths to create healthy solutions. I believe people are experts in their own lives, and my goal is to facilitate healing by holding space and supporting you in navigating your journey to wellness.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Danny McCroskey

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

Danny has a Master in Counseling (MC) from University of Phoenix.

Beaumont, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Bipolar Disorder

Depression

LGBTQIA+

Style

Practical

Warm

Collaborative

I use an evidence-based intervention that I find best suited for the individual. I provide services to children, teens, adults, and couples. I also have experience in treating LGBTQ+ clients and their families.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Rolanda Bradshaw

LMFT

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

Rolanda has a Master of Science (MS) in Marriage Family Child Counseling from University of La Verne.

Santa Rosa, CA

Specialties

Grief

Cultural Stress

Life Transitions

Racial Identity

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Directive

Approachable

Empowering

I provide compassionate support to individuals seeking positive change in their lives. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your concerns and work toward meaningful growth.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Julia Davis

LMFT

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

Julia has a Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology from Brandman University and a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Brandman University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Relationship Issues

Stress

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Insightful

Attuned

Empowering

Welcome to my page! I am a licensed therapist in Michigan, California, Florida, and Washington with over a decade of experience assisting others to relieve distress and promote and restore positive relationships. I work with adults, helping them overcome anxious thoughts and behaviors and process past experiences.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Albert Balderas

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

4+ years

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

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

Ontario, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Stress

Style

Practical

Gentle

Collaborative

My goal is to foster a safe and compassionate space where together, we can identify alternative approaches to how you perceive, engage with, and overcome the obstacles that seem to hinder your pursuit of a fulfilling life. We will work towards empowering you with the tools and insights to lead the life you envision.

“Very personable. Relatable and easy to understand discussions. Empathetic and good balance of talking and listening.”

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

P K Phillips

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

1+ years

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

P K has a Master of Science (MS) in Management of Library and Information Science from University of Southern California and a Masters of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Loyola Marymount University.

San Diego, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Family Conflict

LGBTQIA+

Older Adult

Style

Exploratory

Gentle

Collaborative

As a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist, I work collaboratively with individuals, youth, families, and couples on their therapeutic, relational, and personal goals. I bring an eclectic, humanistic approach to supporting clients through life's challenges.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Athena Merianos

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

5+ years

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

Athena has a Master of Science (MS) in Counseling/MFT from University of Phoenix.

San Gabriel, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Style

Practical

Gentle

Supportive

Individuals and Couples Therapist. Navigating our way through life can be tough, and sometimes all it takes is some outside perspective to help us figure things out, and they can lend us that perspective. Sometimes it takes a lot more work to feel better, and I have the tools, experience, empathy, patience, and understanding to assist you.

“Because Athena is honestly a great therapist, she’s very patient and is very caring about helping me.”

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Suzanne Buckley

LMFT

•

27+ years

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

Suzanne has a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy Emphasis from Pepperdine University.

Gardena, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Practical

Warm

Collaborative

I enjoy working with people and helping them recognize their personal strengths that will assist them to be more balanced in life. I work with teens and adults to process any trauma or stressors that continue to impact their lives.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Glory Blanceagle

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCP

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

Glory has a Doctor of Psychology (PSYD) from Long Island University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Style

Insightful

Attuned

Curious

I've treated young adults to elders in various settings. My practice focuses on helping clients understand themselves and their relationships more deeply.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Marco Hernandez Munoz

LMFT

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

Marco has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Marriage and Family Therapy/Art Therapy from Notre Dame De Namur University.

Sunnyvale, CA

Specialties

Grief

ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

Stress

Style

Practical

Gentle

Affirming

My goal is to provide you with a supportive environment where you can express yourself, explore your thoughts and feelings, and take steps toward achieving personal happiness.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Erik Iem

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

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

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Depression

Stress

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Attuned

Curious

Taking the first step toward therapy can feel both brave and uncertain. I offer a supportive space to explore your experiences, heal from trauma, and find balance through life's changes. I work with trauma, anxiety, depression, and transitions. When you're ready, I invite you to begin your journey toward healing.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Pamela Mather

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

47+ years

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

Pamela has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology MFT Prep from Pepperdine University.

Long Beach, CA

Specialties

Grief

Aging

Anxiety

Depression

Older Adult

Style

Directive

Attuned

Empowering

I work with clients to identify what they need help with and create a map to find answers. I seek to empower you with strategies you can learn and depend on, as well as insight into what triggers you to feel unempowered. My approach is warm, collaborative, and focused on building your resilience.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Joseph Sarcoz

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

12+ years

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

Joseph has a Master's of Marriage and Family Therapy from California Graduate Institute.

Palm Desert, CA

Specialties

Grief

Depression

LGBTQIA+

Relationship Issues

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Outcome-oriented

Approachable

Supportive

I specialize in treating LGBTQ+ patients experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, addiction, and other life challenges related to minority sexual orientation.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Gricelda Alvarez

LMFT

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

Gricelda has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Style

Practical

Approachable

Curious

I create a safe space for exploring thoughts and feelings. I work with adults facing anxiety, depression, panic, self-esteem issues, life transitions, and grief. I will listen and support you on your journey.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

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 USC PPO / EPO Plan in California

Quality care comes first at Rula

Quality care comes first at Rula

Malcolm Redmond

Jeffrey Bellissimo

Danny McCroskey

Rolanda Bradshaw

Julia Davis

Albert Balderas

P K Phillips

Athena Merianos

Suzanne Buckley

Glory Blanceagle

Marco Hernandez Munoz

Erik Iem

Pamela Mather

Joseph Sarcoz

Gricelda Alvarez

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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