Connect with Black or African American therapists in California

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+ therapists
A headshot image of Karen Kaiser

Karen Kaiser

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC
•
4+ years

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

Karen has a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from George Mason University, a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) from University of Virginia and a Master of Education (MED) from University of Virginia.

California
Specialties
Chronic Illness
Mood Disorders
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Curious

I view my role not as an expert dictating your path, but as a guide accompanying you on your journey towards healing and self-discovery. Each individual holds the key to their well-being; my job is to support you in unlocking your inherent potential and navigating the challenges that arise along the way.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Nicole Horne

Nicole Horne

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
13+ years

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

Nicole has a Master in Counseling (MC) Counseling Psychology/Master of Science/Marriage and Family Therapy from California Baptist College.

Corona, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Empowering

I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore anxiety, trauma, stress, life transitions, and self-esteem challenges. My approach combines insight, practical tools, and emotional support to help clients feel more grounded, empowered, and connected to themselves.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Buffy Bowers-Woods

Buffy Bowers-Woods

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
•
13+ years

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

Buffy has a Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) School Social Work from California State University, Fresno.

Fresno, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
Stress
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Collaborative

Starting therapy doesn't have to feel heavy or intimidating. My style is warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative. Whether you're looking for clarity, healing, or just a space to be unapologetically you, you're welcome here.

Available virtually

A headshot image of James Norris

James Norris

LPCC
•
10+ years

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

James has a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) in Counselor Education and Supervision from University of the Cumberland and a Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology from Seattle University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Cultural Stress
Depression
Men's Issues
Racial Identity
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Collaborative

I aim to improve overall mental, emotional, and physical health through a customized approach tailored to each individual's needs.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jimmie Simpson

Jimmie Simpson

LMFT
•
9+ years

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

Jimmie has a Master in Counseling from University of Phoenix.

Los Angeles, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Collaborative

Welcome! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 10+ years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. I provide a warm, supportive, trauma-informed space where we'll work together to build resilience, healing, and lasting positive change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Toya Carroll

Toya Carroll

LPCC
•
3+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Toya Carroll, 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.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Outcome-oriented
Attuned
Supportive

I am a psychotherapist with more than 15 years of experience working with individuals, families, and couples. My clinical background includes treating anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, grief, relationship concerns, and a wide range of life stressors. I draw from ERP, TF‑CBT, CBT, and Solution‑FT to provide structured, evidence‑based support.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ayodele Amadu

Ayodele Amadu

LMFT
•
3+ years

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

Ayodele has a Master of Science (MS) in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist College.

California
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Stress
Suicidal Ideation
Style
Exploratory
Spiritual
Curious

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to helping individuals achieve emotional wellness, personal growth, and healthier relationships. My practice provides a compassionate, culturally sensitive, and faith-integrated approach where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to navigate life’s challenges.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ayanna Forks

Ayanna Forks

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Ayanna Forks, 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.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Stress
Suicidal Ideation
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Motivational

Welcome! Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate life's challenges alone. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience, I am dedicated to helping individuals find healing, build resilience, and create meaningful change in their lives.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ronisha Nicole Hampton

Ronisha Nicole Hampton

LCSW

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

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

California
Specialties
Coping Skills
Family Conflict
Peer Relationships
Relationship Issues
Women's Issues
Style
Outcome-oriented
Attuned
Empowering

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges while creating a supportive, engaging, and meaningful therapeutic experience. I earned both my Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work degrees from California State University, Long Beach. I have six-plus years of experience.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Gabrielle Powell

Gabrielle Powell

LCSW
•
7+ years

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

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

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Gender Identity
Stress
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Curious

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My practice is a warm, safe space where you’re seen as the expert on your own life. I’m here to walk beside you—not ahead of you—as we uncover your inner strengths and build the healing you deserve. Please note: I do not provide off-work notes or court-related paperwork.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Shelley Benn

Shelley Benn

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
5+ years

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

Shelley has a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology/Marriage and Family Therapy from Argosy University.

California
Specialties
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
Spirituality
Women's Issues
Style
Outcome-oriented
Candid
Motivational

Life transitions and unexpected stressors can leave us feeling overwhelmed or disconnected. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can untangle anxious thoughts and develop sustainable coping strategies. You don’t have to carry heavy burdens alone. Using a client-centered, brief solutions approach, I provide a safe environment.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Tosh Fritsch

Tosh Fritsch

LMFT
•
20+ years

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

Tosh has a Master's in Counseling (MC) from Sonoma State University.

Santa Rosa, CA
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Parenting
Trauma and PTSD
Video Game Addiction
Style
Directive
Warm
Empowering

With over 26 years of experience, I have dedicated passionately more than half of my life to supporting children, individuals, couples, and families through the challenges and opportunities that life presents. I see my role as walking alongside people during some of the most important and difficult chapters of their lives.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Clairessa Spencer

Clairessa Spencer

LCSW
•
17+ years

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

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

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Cultural Stress
Depression
Stress
Women's Issues
Style
Practical
Candid
Motivational

I strive to create a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can exhale, feel heard, and explore what’s holding you back. Together, we’ll work toward easing symptoms, building practical coping skills, and finding meaningful solutions so you can feel more confident, balanced, and like yourself again.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Huey Fairweather

Huey Fairweather

LCSW
•
1+ years

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

Huey has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Temple University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Men's Issues
Substance Use
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Supportive

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Veteran who provides a supportive nonjudgmental space where clients can feel comfortable discussing life's challenges. My approach is collaborative and practical, helping clients build coping skills, recognize their strengths, and make meaningful progress towards their goals.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jessica Langford

Jessica Langford

LMFT
•
8+ years

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

Jessica has a Master of Science from University of Phoenix.

California
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Behavioral Issues
Coping Skills
School Issues
Style
Practical
Warm
Motivational

I am a dedicated therapist committed to supporting children, adolescents, and families as they navigate life’s challenges. My approach is to help clients build practical skills, increase self-awareness, and create meaningful change. I strive to provide a safe and supportive space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to grow.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Marisa Padilla

Marisa Padilla

LMFT
•
5+ years

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

Marisa has a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Counseling from Point Loma Nazarene University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Cultural Stress
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Self Esteem
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Curious

My name is pronounced as Muh-Ree-Suh. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California, and I help folks in their 20s & 30s navigate relationship anxiety, people-pleasing, breakups, and dating insecurity so they can feel more confident and secure in relationships.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jacalyn Wetzel

Jacalyn Wetzel

LCSW
•
5+ years

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

Jacalyn has a Master of Social Work from Catholic University of America.

California
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
Stress
Women's Issues
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Motivational

I work with people struggling with ADHD symptoms, anxiety, and depression. I've worked with people from all walks of life, from reality TV stars to new parents struggling with the transition into parenthood. We all struggle with something at some point in our lives, and I'm here to help you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Kim Paylor

Kim Paylor

LPCC
•
6+ years

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

Kim has a Master of Science (MS) in professional clinical counseling from Grand Canyon University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Spirituality
Substance Use
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Affirming

My counseling style is warm, authentic, and collaborative, and I strive to create a safe space where you feel seen, heard, and supported. Rather than telling you what to do, I work alongside you to explore challenges, uncover strengths, and help you move toward the life you want to create.

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 Carl Fuller

Carl Fuller

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
•
11+ years

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

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

Sacramento, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Spirituality
Stress
Style
Outcome-oriented
Spiritual
Collaborative

I have over 23 years of experience in the mental health field, with five years of independent licensing. Establishing genuine rapport is essential to the therapeutic process. As a Christian faith-based therapist, I have successfully guided many individuals on their healing journeys.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Joseph Burton

Joseph Burton

LCSW
•
4+ years

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

Joseph has a Master of Social Work (MSW) Social and economic justice from University of California, Los Angeles.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Men's Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Supportive

I am a trauma-informed and culturally responsive therapist who supports individuals navigating anxiety, depression, stress, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, explore challenges, and develop practical tools for meaningful change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Shawanda Crawford

Shawanda Crawford

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
7+ years

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

Shawanda has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

Los Angeles, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Behavioral Issues
Coping Skills
Depression
Self Esteem
Style
Responsive
Warm
Supportive

When individuals find themselves suffering from debilitating mental health disorders and/or dual diagnoses, they often feel lost and unsure of where to turn for help and understanding. I am deeply passionate about helping people process negative experiences and traumatic stressors that can significantly impact daily functioning.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Roselle Smith

Roselle Smith

LMFT
•
5+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Roselle Smith, 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
Depression
Grief
Life Transitions
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Practical
Approachable
Supportive

I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist dedicated to providing compassionate, client-centered care in a safe and supportive environment. My approach focuses on helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, build resilience, and develop practical strategies to improve their mental health.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jasmine Salenga

Jasmine Salenga

LCSW
•
1+ years

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

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

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Chronic Illness
Depression
Style
Insightful
Warm
Motivational

I’m a compassionate, client-centered therapist who believes meaningful change starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. In our work together, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where we can explore challenges, build practical tools, and help you move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life

Available virtually

A headshot image of Mirlande Amazan

Mirlande Amazan

LCSW
•
15+ years

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

Mirlande has a Master of Divinity (MDIV) Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary.

Los Angeles, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Women's Issues
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Collaborative

My approach to therapy is holistic - spirit, mind, body- as applicable. I hold an MDiv pertaining to spiritual care. Though not limited to, my focus area of practice is on mental health issues pertaining to women -- particularly BIPOC. My dream clients are those who are seriously committed to their mental health journey.

Available virtually

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