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

Laura Pennelle

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

Laura has a Master of Social Work (MSW) Title IVe and Administrative Social Work from San Diego State University.

San Diego, CA

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Insightful

Candid

Empowering

I focus on treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, stress, self-esteem, addictions, grief, and life changes. I also help people navigate relationship conflict, domestic violence, codependency, and co-parenting challenges. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 27th

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

Diana Abrams

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

4+ years

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

Diana has a Master in Counseling (MC) Psychology from California Institute of Integral Studies.

San Francisco, CA

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Anxiety

Depression

Mood Disorders

Older Adult

Style

Exploratory

Attuned

Motivational

I work with clients using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy, creating a supportive and collaborative space where individuals can explore challenges, build coping skills, and move toward growth and healing.

“Diana has helped me in my personal growth in more ways than I can count. She has navigated me through the loss of my brother and father, a new job and feelings of insecurity, and much more.”

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Rinad Taha

LCSW

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

Rinad has a Master of Social Work from California State University San Marcos.

California

Specialties

Grief

ADHD

Anxiety

Cultural Stress

Depression

Family Conflict

Style

Directive

Warm

Collaborative

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, California. I provide telehealth and in-person therapy for children and adults.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Rowena Gillo

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

34+ years

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

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

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Depression

Life Transitions

Stress

Style

Responsive

Warm

Supportive

I'm a psychotherapist who works with adults and older adults facing anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, and personal growth. My style is warm, interactive, and collaborative, and I bring experience from diverse mental health settings.

Next appointmentFriday, Apr 24th

Available virtually

Eric Saprid

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

8+ years

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

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

Los Angeles, CA

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Anxiety

Depression

Stress

Substance Use

Style

Directive

Warm

Curious

I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, and spirituality.

Next appointmentFriday, Apr 24th

Available virtually

Sarah Gbadebo

LMFT

•

8+ years

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

Sarah has a Master of Science (MS) in Counseling from California State University, Northridge.

Lancaster, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anger Management

Anxiety

Depression

Self Esteem

Stress

Style

Outcome-oriented

Approachable

Collaborative

Congratulations on taking the first step to begin your therapeutic journey. It takes courage to start this process, and I'm proud of you for getting started! I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, boundaries, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Ernie Demis

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

39+ years

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

Ernie has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology from City University of New York.

Glendale, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Bipolar Disorder

Depression

Relationship Issues

Style

Responsive

Attuned

Collaborative

In therapy, it's often said to do what works because patients often present with unique conditions that require special thought. I draw on my diverse experience treating adults, geriatrics, young adults experiencing first-break psychosis, and dually diagnosed individuals and their families to provide thoughtful, tailored treatment.

“Ernie is wise, compassionate, and comforting to speak to.”

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

La Cresheia Lee

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

•

9+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like La Cresheia Lee, 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.

San Diego, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Mood Disorders

Relationship Issues

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

I work with people experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, cultural and racial identity concerns, stress management, grief and loss, emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, suicide ideation, and co-occurring disorders.

“She is absolutely amazing”

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Roselia Ortega

LCSW

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

Roselia has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Stanislaus.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Behavioral Issues

Depression

Stress

Style

Responsive

Attuned

Empowering

I provide therapy in both English and Spanish. I'm dedicated to supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and understood. I help clients build insight, develop healthy coping skills, and create meaningful change in their lives.

Next appointmentThursday, Apr 23rd

Available virtually

Mir Ali

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC

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

Mir has a Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Counseling Psychology from Capella University.

Irvine, CA

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Career Counseling

Depression

Life Transitions

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Gentle

Collaborative

I specialize in anxiety, trauma, PTSD, depression, and career counseling. I believe in the transformative power of human connection and the connection we create with our inner selves. Seeking help reflects your strength, self-awareness, and determination to improve your quality of life and create a new healthy narrative.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Amber Tomczak

LMFT

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

Amber has a Masters of Arts (MA) Psychology from Chapman University.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Coping Skills

Relationship Issues

School Issues

Spirituality

Style

Exploratory

Spiritual

Curious

Feeling stuck, disconnected, or weighed down by emotional pain? You don’t have to carry it alone. I help individuals, couples, families, and professionals work through suffering, restore connection, and move toward healing with compassion, insight, and support.

Next appointmentTuesday, Apr 21st

Available virtually

Amber Roper

LMFT

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

Amber has a Master of Science (MS) from California Baptist College.

California

Specialties

Grief

Anxiety

Depression

Family Conflict

Infertility

Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum

Style

Insightful

Approachable

Motivational

I believe therapy is very personal, should be individualized, and tailored to the needs of the client. I have experience in working with children, teens, and adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, and stress. I also work with adults who experience relationship, marriage conflict, and infertility struggles.

Next appointmentMonday, Apr 20th

Available virtually

Esther Torres

LMFT

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

Esther has a Masters of Arts (MA) Marriage and Family Therapy from United States International University.

San Diego, CA

Specialties

Grief

Addiction

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Relationship Issues

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Collaborative

Hello, and thank you for visiting my page. I help individuals navigate their challenges and work toward improving their mental health, fostering healthier connections, and improving overall well-being.

Next appointmentWednesday, Apr 22nd

Available virtually

Maeva Hosmer

LMFT

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

Maeva has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Marriage and Family Therapy from California Baptist College.

California

Specialties

Grief

Coping Skills

Life Transitions

Parenting

Relationship Issues

Spirituality

Style

Practical

Spiritual

Supportive

I consider it a privilege to be allowed to come alongside you in your mental health journey. You are a person deserving of respect and compassion, no matter what you're going through.

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

Laura Pennelle

Norine Campbell

Diana Abrams

Rinad Taha

Rowena Gillo

Eric Saprid

Sarah Gbadebo

Ernie Demis

La Cresheia Lee

Roselia Ortega

Mir Ali

Amber Tomczak

Amber Roper

Esther Torres

Maeva Hosmer

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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