Connect with Compassion Focused therapy in California

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+Compassion Focused therapy providers
A headshot image of Sabrina Griswold

Sabrina Griswold

LPCC
•
3+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Sabrina Griswold, are mental health professionals 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.

Elk Grove, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Empowering

I offer a warm, collaborative space to explore the patterns, relationships, and experiences shaping your life. My humanistic and existential approach emphasizes self-understanding, authenticity, meaning, and helping you move toward a life that feels more aligned with who you are.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Olivia Sessanna

Olivia Sessanna

LCSW
•
2+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Olivia Sessanna, 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
Anxiety
Depression
Substance Use
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Style
Practical
Approachable
Empowering

My clinical foundation encompasses a wide spectrum of care, which allows me to meet clients exactly where they are in their unique healing journey. Beyond my formal clinical training, my diverse personal and professional experiences provide a grounded, real-world perspective.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jeffrey Hagle

Jeffrey Hagle

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Jeffrey Hagle, 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) in Trauma plus Mental Health from University of Denver.

Long Beach, CA
Specialties
Developmental Disorders
Mood Disorders
Personality Disorders
Thought Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Directive
Candid
Empowering

You can call me Jay! I believe healing isn't just something we think our way through, it's something we experience. Together, we'll explore the connection between your mind, body, and nervous system with curiosity, compassion, and enough humor to remind you that life can be both messy and meaningful.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Brittnay Stevens

Brittnay Stevens

LPCC
•
4+ years

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

Brittnay has a Master in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Cultural Stress
LGBTQIA+
Racial Identity
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Affirming

I am a licensed therapist providing culturally grounded, intersectional mental health support across California. As a Black, queer practitioner, my practice is rooted in the belief that healing happens when you can bring your entire, authentic self into the room.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Arcelito Glorioso

Arcelito Glorioso

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
•
3+ years

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

Arcelito has a Master of Social Work from California Baptist College.

Murrieta, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
LGBTQIA+
Panic Attacks
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Warm
Empowering

Healing happens through relationships, insight, and feeling deeply understood. I have a servant's heart to care for adults navigating trauma, relationship issues, and to overcome anxiety. I help clients build resilience and create lasting change to move from victim to survivor, thriver, and to be a victor of their lives. Let's do life together!

Available virtually

A headshot image of Kenjie Nwosu

Kenjie Nwosu

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

Kenjie has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Walden University.

California
Specialties
Relapse Prevention
Style
Responsive
Candid
Supportive

I am a licensed LCSW new to Rula. I understand that taking the first step to seek therapy can feel daunting. My ultimate goal is to provide a safe, warm and non-judgmental space where you can feel truly heard, empowered and equipped to navigate life's challenges.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Felicia Payton

Felicia Payton

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
4+ years

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

Felicia has a Master of Science (MS) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Loma Linda University.

Riverside, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Directive
Gentle
Collaborative

I work with individuals and families navigating systemic issues, anxiety, and trauma. My approach draws on Bowenian Theory to understand how family patterns and broader systems shape our experiences and struggles.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Karen Barnoy

Karen Barnoy

LMFT
•
5+ years

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

Karen has a Masters of Arts (MA) from Antioch University Santa Barbara.

California
Specialties
ADHD
Addiction
Eating Disorders
Mood Disorders
Personality Disorders
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I offer a warm, trauma-informed, and collaborative space where you can explore life's challenges, reconnect with your strengths, and deepen your understanding of yourself. Together, we'll work toward creating lasting change that feels authentic, meaningful, and aligned with your values.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Allison Gilbert

Allison Gilbert

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
38+ years

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

Allison has a Masters of Arts (MA) from John F. Kennedy University.

California
Specialties
Codependency
Life Transitions
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
Relationship Issues
Women's Issues
Style
Responsive
Spiritual
Affirming

Life can be full of challenges that leave us floundering. Are you feeling a lack of self-confidence and questioning your purpose? Let me help you get back on track.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Nydia Valverde

Nydia Valverde

LCSW
•
17+ years

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

Nydia has a Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University.

California
Specialties
Mood Disorders
Panic Attacks
Sexual Abuse
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Warm
Affirming

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than twenty years of experience supporting individuals, families, and children of all cultures and backgrounds. I’ve worked in settings where people often seek help during their most vulnerable moments. I approach therapy with compassion, curiosity, and deep respect for each person’s unique story.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Kathrine Bagdasaryan

Kathrine Bagdasaryan

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
2+ years

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

Kathrine has a Masters of Arts (MA) from Pepperdine University.

California
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Substance Use
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Supportive

I believe therapy should feel like a safe, supportive conversation—not something scary or overly clinical. I help people navigate challenges like anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and substance use while building practical tools for lasting change. My goal is to help you feel understood, empowered, and a little less alone.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Miguel Rodriguez

Miguel Rodriguez

LCSW
•
13+ years

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

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

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Cultural Stress
Depression
Parenting
Stress
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Collaborative

Life can feel overwhelming, and asking for help is not always easy. Whether you are feeling stuck, struggling in relationships, facing a major transition, or simply looking for support, you do not have to navigate it alone. I would be honored to work alongside you as you move toward greater clarity, healing, and growth.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Sara Sepulveda

Sara Sepulveda

LPCC
•
5+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Sara Sepulveda, are mental health professionals 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.

Fresno, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Warm
Supportive

I help guide others who struggle with feelings of depression, anxiety or trauma by helping them to develop coping skills through use of interventions and counseling strategies to help rebuild confidence and self-esteem.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Elaine Dern

Elaine Dern

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
•
22+ years

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

Elaine has a Master of Social Work in Mental Health from San Diego State University.

California
Specialties
ADHD
Gender Identity
Mood Disorders
Sexual Addiction
Substance Use
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Empowering

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been a licensed clinician for over 20 years. I believe therapy offers an individual the power of insight to begin the process towards empowering one's life. Using cognitive behavioral, client-centered therapy offers the client begins to build a therapeutic alliance.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Gabriela Lopez-Machon

Gabriela Lopez-Machon

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
4+ years

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

Gabriela has a Master's in Counseling (MC) from Wright Institute.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Style
Responsive
Warm
Supportive

I am a therapist who works with teens, adults, couples, and families navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical, helping clients build insight, strengthen connections, and create meaningful, lasting change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jeanette Arroyo

Jeanette Arroyo

LMFT
•
5+ years

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

Jeanette has a Master of Science (MS) from California State University, Fresno.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Grief
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Practical
Warm
Collaborative

I provide a warm, collaborative, and practical approach to therapy, helping adults navigate anxiety, trauma, grief, and relationship challenges. Together, we'll build insight into the patterns that may be keeping you stuck while developing effective strategies that support meaningful, lasting change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Diana Shapiro

Diana Shapiro

LMFT
•
21+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Diana Shapiro, 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 of Science (MS) in Counseling from California State University, Hayward.

California
Specialties
Coping Skills
LGBTQIA+
Older Adult
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Style
Responsive
Attuned
Collaborative

Therapy is, first and foremost, a commitment to yourself. I will be with you all the way, offering a supportive, collaborative approach. I have been doing this for over 2 decades, and have a lot of tools in my toolbox to share if and when needed or requested.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Leslie Honorato

Leslie Honorato

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
•
5+ years

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

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

California
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
School Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Gentle
Supportive

Life can feel overwhelming when you’re carrying everything alone. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients can slow down, reconnect with themselves, and work through anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, life transitions, and emotional burnout with clarity and care.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Martha Hughes

Martha Hughes

LCSW
•
13+ years

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

Martha has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Social Work Interpersonal Intervention from Michigan State University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Older Adult
Women's Issues
Style
Exploratory
Gentle
Curious

You can call me Marti! Reaching out takes real courage, and I’m here to support you through life transitions, daily stress, and personal growth with grounded, collaborative, and tailored care. My goal is to create a safe, nurturing space where you can be completely yourself, feel deeply heard, and begin meaningful, lasting healing at your own pace.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Heidi Kiernan

Heidi Kiernan

LMFT
•
12+ years

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

Heidi has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from Institute of Transpersonal Psychology.

California
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Responsive
Warm
Collaborative

I'm a CA Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with individual adult clients who are seeking improved mental health, personal growth, and optimal emotional well-being.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Sarah Chavez

Sarah Chavez

LPCC
•
3+ years

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

Sarah has a Masters in Counseling (MC) in Mental Health Clinical Counseling from Capella University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Cultural Stress
Grief
Life Transitions
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Collaborative

Have you been looking for a space where you can feel genuinely seen and understood? I believe meaningful change happens through a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, safety, and connection. My approach is warm, culturally responsive, and centered on meeting you where you are.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Johnnie Mattioli

Johnnie Mattioli

LMFT
•
5+ years

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

Johnnie has a Masters of Education (MED) Marriage and Family Therapy from Cambridge College.

California
Specialties
ADHD
Addiction
Anxiety
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

Life can look put together on the outside while you feel anxious, exhausted, disconnected, or uncertain about what comes next. I help adults navigate anxiety, burnout, relationship concerns, and major life transitions so they can feel clearer, more connected, and more confident moving forward.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
11+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Jennifer Lopez, 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 from California Baptist College.

California
Specialties
Aging
Cultural Stress
Depression
Grief
Stress
Style
Insightful
Warm
Empowering

I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 13 years of experience. I love coffee, a good writing pen, a cozy sweater, and a great podcast. I love working with people, and this field has given me purpose and drive. I feel honored to walk alongside you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Edith Barfield

Edith Barfield

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

Edith has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Our Lady of the Lake University.

Madera, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Borderline Personality
Depression
Family Conflict
Stress
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Affirming

I’m a bilingual (English/Spanish) LCSW, and I’m really glad you’re here. Taking this step for your mental health is a big deal, and I’m genuinely proud of you for making it a priority. You don’t have to figure this out alone—I’m excited to embark on this journey with you and help you navigate this process at a pace that feels right for you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Emily Martinez

Emily Martinez

LMFT

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

Emily has a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family therapy from Alliant International University.

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Self Esteem
Sex Therapy
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Curious

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals and couples around relationships, attachment, identity, intimacy, and emotional well-being. I offer affirming, collaborative care that helps clients understand patterns, build self-trust, and create more intentional change.

Available virtually

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