Connect with Compassion Focused therapy in California

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+ providers
A headshot image of Rachel Bennett

Rachel Bennett

LCSW
•
8+ years

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

Rachel has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from San Diego State University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Child Abuse or Neglect
Depression
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Supportive

Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed by anxious thoughts, or navigating a major life transition? You don't have to figure it out alone. I help individuals step out of self-doubt and build a more grounded, confident connection with themselves. Together, we will create a compassionate, non-judgmental space tailored to your unique healing journey.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Herbert Wright

Herbert Wright

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
8+ years

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

Herbert has a Master in Counseling (MC) in Counseling Psychology from National University.

Carson, CA
Specialties
Borderline Personality
Schizophrenia
Substance Use
Style
Outcome-oriented
Spiritual
Motivational

I specialize in Humanistic / Existential, CBT, Object Relations, Solution-Focused, and Structural Family Therapy.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jacquelyn Akin

Jacquelyn Akin

LCSW
•
2+ years

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

Jacquelyn has a Master of Social Work, Adult Mental Health and Wellness from University of Southern California.

Huntington Beach, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Collaborative

Therapy can be a space to explore and work through life’s challenges while creating opportunities for healing, personal growth, and greater self-acceptance. I’m here to walk alongside you on that journey, offering support and guidance as we explore whatever is on your mind. You don’t have to figure it out on your own.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Luisa Aguilar-Salazar

Luisa Aguilar-Salazar

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
•
5+ years

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

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

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Divorce
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Candid
Curious

I specialize in supporting people re-pattern outdated survival strategies of anxiety, rage, fawning, shame, self-erasure, and self-abandonment. I accompany clients in moving from being performative, reactionary, and compliant, towards aliveness and authenticity. My practice integrates somatic techniques in therapy through an IFS informed lens.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Lana Mak-Phanitsiri

Lana Mak-Phanitsiri

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
•
9+ years

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

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

California
Specialties
Child Abuse or Neglect
Depression
Family Conflict
Grief
Relationship Issues
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Collaborative

I live for a passion for helping people navigate life's toughest transitions. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, and I focus on creating a non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts freely.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Sergio Soto-Alvarez

Sergio Soto-Alvarez

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
6+ years

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

Sergio has a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical, Counseling, and Applied Psychology from Point Loma Nazarene University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Gender Identity
LGBTQIA+
Relationship Issues
Self Esteem
Stress
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Curious

I provide a welcoming, non-judgmental space where you can explore your mental health. With acceptance, understanding, and humor, I make sure you feel acknowledged, comforted, and validated as you grow and heal. I specialize in boosting self-esteem and promoting personal development while encouraging you to challenge yourself.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Dawn Riley

Dawn Riley

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
8+ years

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

Dawn has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) from National University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Style
Outcome-oriented
Attuned
Collaborative

I work with adolescents, individuals, couples, and families, specializing in anxiety, depression, and communication. My main approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy so that clients get quicker relief from their symptoms.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Alfredo Lozano

Alfredo Lozano

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
17+ years

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

Alfredo has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Marriage and Family Therapy from San Diego State University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
Relationship Issues
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Curious

Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just ready for change? You don’t have to figure it out alone. I’m a bilingual therapist (English/Spanish) who helps adults find clarity and relief through practical, compassionate support. If you’re looking for a safe space to be fully yourself and start feeling better, reach out. I’m excited to meet you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Beverly Martinez

Beverly Martinez

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

Beverly has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Marriage, Family Child Therapy from University of Phoenix.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
LGBTQIA+
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Warm
Collaborative

I’m a warm, trauma-informed therapist who helps clients navigate anxiety, stress, trauma, and relationship challenges. I blend practical tools with deeper exploration of patterns shaped by past experiences. My goal is to offer a safe, supportive space for growth and healing.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Melissa Hopper

Melissa Hopper

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC
•
4+ years

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

Melissa has a Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University.

Folsom, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Empowering

I’m here to support you through life’s most difficult emotional challenges. Whether you're facing trauma, anxiety, grief, or long-standing emotional pain, you don’t have to go through it alone. I specialize in helping people work through complex trauma, manage anxiety, and find relief from patterns of rumination and overwhelm.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Amy Chow

Amy Chow

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
•
7+ years

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

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

Van Nuys, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Mood Disorders
Women's Issues
Style
Practical
Attuned
Affirming

My pronouns are she/hers/her, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about supporting your healing process through a culturally and trauma-informed lens, working through mental health challenges in order to foster healthy coping tools and enhance well-being.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Desiree Aspiras

Desiree Aspiras

LMFT
•
10+ years

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

Desiree has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Marital and Family Therapy from University of San Diego.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Career Counseling
LGBTQIA+
Life Transitions
jobStress
Style
Insightful
Warm
Motivational

Are you struggling with what's on your plate, or whether you are doing "what you're supposed to be doing"? Are you transitioning into a new phase, or ready to do something different? Are you feeling urgency to finally do the inner work so you can live in alignment with your innermost desires & values? If so, I look forward to connecting with you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Carrie Christensen

Carrie Christensen

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

Carrie has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Western New Mexico University.

Coalinga, CA
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Codependency
Depression
Stress
Style
Insightful
Spiritual
Motivational

I offer compassionate, trauma-informed therapy for the parts of you carrying stress, self-doubt, grief, old wounds, or repeating cycles that no longer serve you. Together, we explore patterns with curiosity, not judgment, while building practical tools for healing, regulation, and deeper connection to yourself.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Diane Prosser

Diane Prosser

LMFT
•
40+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Diane Prosser, 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.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Collaborative

I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist with extensive experience helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship patterns, and struggles with self-worth. I offer a warm, collaborative space where we can understand what lies beneath the symptoms and create meaningful, lasting change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Martina Galvan

Martina Galvan

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
•
4+ years

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

Martina has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from San Diego State University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Stress
Women's Issues
Style
Responsive
Attuned
Supportive

I'm here to support your journey. I provide a warm, collaborative space where you can slow down, feel understood, and create meaningful change. Together, we’ll explore patterns that keep you feeling stuck, strengthen your resilience, and help you move toward a more connected, fulfilling life.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Nancy Martinez

Nancy Martinez

LMFT
•
5+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Nancy Martinez, 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.

Garden Grove, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Self Esteem
Women's Issues
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

Welcome to the first step in your therapeutic journey. I work with individuals that occupy a guide to navigate their anxiety, depression, stress, family issues, and relationship issues. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment to provide you with the best care.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Lara Dirks

Lara Dirks

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
15+ years

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

Lara has a Master of Science (MS) in Marriage, Family, Child Therapy from University of Phoenix.

Modesto, CA
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
Style
Outcome-oriented
Gentle
Supportive

I work with children, families, and adults using a friendly, down-to-earth style. I bring science to our sessions and help people in crisis, those with mood disorders, ADHD, parenting challenges, relationship issues, and communication struggles.

“Lara is experienced and professional and I’ve enjoyed working with her for the past several months!”

Available virtually

A headshot image of Monica Derkacz

Monica Derkacz

LCSW
•
12+ years

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

Monica has a Master of Social Work from California State University, Chico.

California
Specialties
Addiction
Aging
Anxiety
Grief
Life Transitions
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Affirming

I believe that each person has the capacity to create meaningful change in their life. Together, through therapeutic exploration, we will work together to better understand what may be getting in the way and discover new, productive ways of moving forward. "Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing There is a field. I'll meet you there" Rumi

Available virtually

A headshot image of Maria Rohde

Maria Rohde

LMFT
•
35+ years

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

Maria has a Masters of Arts (MA) from CALIFORNIA STATE UNIV NORTHRIDGE.

California
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Panic Attacks
Relationship Issues
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Empowering

Join me in the healing journey, in which we will use the problems that life has delivered as gifts which help us recognize and release outdated reactions, thoughts and patterns, and live a more fulfilling, authentic and satisfying life.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Yuritzy Gomez Serrano

Yuritzy Gomez Serrano

LMFT
•
8+ years

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

Yuritzy has a Master in Counseling (MC) from California State University, Los Angeles.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Codependency
Parenting
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Warm
Affirming

With nearly a decade of experience, I support helpers, caregivers, advocates, and service-oriented people. Those who give endlessly to others and struggle to receive. We create space to process trauma, support your nervous system, and reclaim your limits, your voice, and your sense of worthiness- one that isn't just tied to what you accomplish.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Katie Hartman

Katie Hartman

LMFT

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

Katie has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) Marriage and Family Therapy from Stanford University.

Los Angeles, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Codependency
Depression
Relationship Issues
Self Esteem
Style
Directive
Attuned
Supportive

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe therapy should feel like a safe, supportive space where you can be yourself without judgment. I work collaboratively with clients to navigate anxiety, life transitions, relationships, and the challenges that can feel overwhelming on your own.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Darryl Gilmer

Darryl Gilmer

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
14+ years

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

Darryl has a Master of Science in Psychology (MSPSY) from Chapman University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Supportive

I work with couples and individuals navigating relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, and trauma. My approach is warm and relational, emphasizing the healing power of connection both within your relationships and between us in therapy.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Maria Marquez

Maria Marquez

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
27+ years

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

Maria has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) from Antioch College.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Cultural Stress
Depression
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Warm
Affirming

Welcome to my page! I am a bilingual, bicultural therapist, and I have been a licensed therapist for over 30 years. I still love doing therapy and helping people despite my 30-plus years in this field.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Daniella Leon

Daniella Leon

LMFT

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

Daniella has a Masters of Arts (MA) Clinical Psychology; Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Stress
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Warm
Collaborative

Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready for something to change, you don't have to navigate it alone. I help adults navigate anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, and life transitions while building healthier boundaries, stronger communication, and greater confidence.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Avigail Ward

Avigail Ward

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
14+ years

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

Avigail has a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) in MFT from Loma Linda University and a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) from Chapman University.

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Gentle
Curious

My goal is to provide a safe space where you feel heard and valued. It's a privilege to be allowed into your life and have you share your deepest thoughts and feelings with me.

Available virtually

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