Does my insurance cover therapy in California?

Today, most plans include [some sort of coverage for mental health care](https://headway.co/clients/understanding-health-insurance). You can check your mental health coverage for your current plan by doing any of the following: - Enter your insurance plan details on [Headway](https://headway.co) to see if we can instantly verify - Visit your insurance company's website or app - Review your EOB (explanation of benefits) and look for details on "behavioral health benefits" - Call your insurance company directly to ask

How much will my therapy session cost in California?

Once you select a therapist and enter [your insurance details](https://headway.co/clients/understanding-health-insurance), we'll verify your insurance and estimate your in-network session costs. Because we partner with 70+ of the nation's top insurance plans, we're able to provide you with accurate estimates before you even book.

How do I find a therapist in California who accepts my insurance?

Select your state and insurance on [Headway](https://headway.co) — then, use filters to add any other preferences such as ethnicity, age, gender, and therapy style. We'll provide a list of providers who match your preferences and accept your plan, and you'll be able to review their profiles and book directly.

Which insurance plans does Headway accept in California?

Headway therapists are currently able to accept Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield (in select states), Cigna, Oscar, Oxford, United Healthcare, and all Optum affiliates. These larger insurance networks also administer mental health benefits for third-party insurance carriers, and often our providers are able to accept those, as well.

Do I have to pay to use Headway?

No, it doesn't cost anything to find a therapist on Headway. Once you're ready to book, we'll find [your mental health benefits](https://headway.co/clients/understanding-health-insurance) and show you a price estimate per session. You won't be charged until after the session.

When am I going to be charged?

A few days before [your first session](https://headway.co/clients/first-therapy-session), we'll verify your account has enough funds by placing a temporary hold on your payment method. This hold will be the same amount as your estimated cost and will have "Headway" as the statement description. After your session, we'll cancel this hold and issue a charge for the estimated cost.

How do I pay for my care?

You can pay by card (credit, debit, HSA, FSA, or HRA Card) or by connecting your bank account. After a session, your therapist will confirm the details and we'll bill your payment method on file. We're able to bill you at the time of service because our system reads your benefits in real time (vs. waiting for your claim to process).

Are video visits with a therapist online covered by my insurance?

Most insurance plans will cover telehealth services (video visits). When you add [your insurance details](https://headway.co/clients/understanding-health-insurance), we can help determine if telehealth is covered by your specific plan.

Are all the clinicians on Headway licensed?

Yes, all clinicians on Headway are required to be fully licensed. Headway clinicians include talk therapists (LMHC, LCSW, LMFT, Counselor, LPC, LP, LCAT, and Psychologist) and medication management providers (Psychiatrists, Nurse Practitioners, MDs, and DOs).

Is online therapy more affordable than in-person therapy?

It depends. If you're using insurance, online and in-person therapy often cost about the same, [based on your coverage and provider network](https://headway.co/clients/understanding-health-insurance). Some find online care more convenient and accessible. With Headway, you can find therapists who accept your insurance and get a cost estimate before you book.

Is there a difference between a therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist?

Yes. “Therapist” and “counselor” are general terms for professionals who provide talk therapy for mental health challenges. Their titles may vary based on training and licenses. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose conditions, prescribe medication, and sometimes offer therapy. On Headway, you can find both therapists and psychiatrists to support your needs.

What can I expect at my first therapy session?

In your first session, think of it as an opportunity for you and your therapist to get to know each other. They'll likely ask about what brought you to seek therapy and about your goals. Together, you'll figure out what works best for you, and set a comfortable rhythm for sessions that follow. Not sure where to start? Headway's directory makes it easy to find a therapist who fits your needs and takes your insurance, helping you feel confident walking into your first session. Explore therapists in California and view their profiles for more information on who they are and how approach their sessions.

Is virtual therapy with a California therapist an option for me if I’m located in a different state?

There are a few factors the determine if you can see a provider in California from your state. First, California and your state must be reciprocity states, which is an agreement that effectively allows a licensed professional to "transfer" their license to the other state. Additionally, the provider must go through the reciprocity licensing process. Headway's directory shows you all of the providers licensed in California, making it easy to tell which providers you can see virtually from your location. Individual provider's profiles provides information on where they're located and what modalities they offer.

What therapy types do Headway's therapists offer?

Headway's network includes a range of therapy styles—think Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and more. There are therapists trained in everything from solution‑focused work to trauma-informed or family therapy. With Headway, you can explore and connect with therapists in California who matches your needs. Use Headway's directory to find someone who offers the kind of care you're looking for, in a way that resonates with you.

Find 9012 therapists in California

Jolene Coe

Therapist

Virtual & in-person

1500 41st Avenue, Capitola, CA

“I am an Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist and work from a parts-based lens to help you understand and relate differently to these internal patterns.”

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss,

Direct, Participatory, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Providence Health Plan

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Brian King

Psychologist

Virtual • California

“I seek to provide a thoughtful and reflective setting where clients develop greater understanding of their problems and limitations through honest exploration of themselves, and to bolster strengths/foster growth.”

ADD/ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder,

Creative, Open-minded, Participatory

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

View profile and book

Samantha Sanchez-Franco

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I'm here to help you actually make the changes you've been wanting to make and have struggled to do so.”

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues,

Affirming, Direct, Holistic

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Jennifer Bulger

Psychologist

Virtual • California

“My goal is help people discover their authentic courage and inner strength to overcome current challenges and to heal from past experiences that may be holding them back.”

ADD/ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder,

Open-minded, Participatory, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

View profile and book

Erica Bush

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I believe you are the expert on your own experiences, and my role is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore those experiences without judgment.”

ADD/ADHD, Anger Management, OCD, Substance Abuse / Addiction,

Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

View profile and book

Katrina Balian

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I strive to create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where young people can feel comfortable being themselves, better understand their emotions, build confidence, and develop skills to navigate challenges in their everyday lives.”

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues,

Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

View profile and book

Corinne Humphries

Therapist

Virtual • California

“Through humor, empathy and compassion, I will aid in setting achievable goals, developing helpful skills, and empowering clients to seek their fullest potential.”

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss,

Direct, Energetic, Humorous

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Ijeoma Mbadugha

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person

9431 Haven Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga, CA

“She is passionate about creating a supportive, judgment-free environment where every patient feels heard, respected, and empowered throughout their mental health journey.”

ADD/ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder,

Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

View profile and book

Corlie Presswood

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have experience working with clients experiencing Trauma, Bi-Polar, Depression, Anxiety, and persistent mental illness and psychosis.”

Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression,

Creative, Open-minded, Solution-oriented

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Claudia Villarreal

Therapist

Virtual & in-person

282 Landis Avenue, Chula Vista, CA

I genuinely like people, have always love to help ,

Will take my clients through the therapeutic process, with empathy and care for their experience in therapy to be a positive one.

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues,

Empowering, Energetic, Solution-oriented

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Elizabeth Bevan

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I am a Psychotherapist who specializes in working with adults who have experienced trauma and would like to learn to cope with the resulting experiences of anxiety, depression and psychosis.”

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression,

Creative, Open-minded, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

View profile and book

Cyndi Gallego Lcsw-S

Therapist

Virtual • California

“My goal is to create a warm, culturally sensitive, and supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and comfortable being yourself.”

Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression,

Creative, Solution-oriented, Warm

Accepts Blue Shield of California, Aetna, United Healthcare,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Sarah Flam

Therapist

Virtual • San Diego, CA

“I draw from attachment-based, somatic, compassion-focused, and expressive therapies to support emotional regulation and self-understanding.”

Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues, Grief or loss,

Creative, Holistic, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Dr. Shelby Solomon

Psychologist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA

“Dr. Solomon recognizes therapy is an uplifting, supportive, and sometimes challenging experience, and believes establishing trust, safety, and open communication is essential to the process.”

ADD/ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder,

Holistic, Participatory, Solution-oriented

Accepts Aetna insurance

View profile and book

Gloria Morrow

Psychologist

Virtual • California

“I create a beloved community environment for my clients, where the client feels respected and his or her needs are at the forefront of the session.”

Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues, Grief or loss,

Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

View profile and book

Sarah Darwich

Therapist

Virtual • California

I enjoy working with all age ranges, with most mental health issues. I genuinely share the experience with my client, I get in their shoes, and I feel what they feel. The beauty about therapy is knowing that you are there to actually work on yourself, no matter the process. I hope to help many become better people and create better futures for themselves.

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues,

Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

View profile and book

Tammie Makely

Therapist

Virtual • California

“My role isn't to fix you -- it's to work alongside you to quiet the noise, get curious about what's underneath, and help you reconnect with yourself and the people who matter most to YOU.”

Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression,

Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

View profile and book

Lara Zaghikian

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I primarily use Integrative Therapy, combining aspects of various schools of thought, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy.”

Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues, Grief or loss,

Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Aetna, Cigna,

View profile and book

Jeanette Vega

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I'm a therapist who believes that people don't need to be "fixed"—they need to be understood, supported, and given space to grow at their own pace.”

Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues, Grief or loss,

Affirming, Open-minded, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

View profile and book

Jeffrey Wirth

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I have always strived to help them become the best version of themselves as possible, while reaching to accomplish any constructive goals they may have for themselves.”

Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression,

Humorous, Participatory, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

View profile and book

Ruth Clavelo

Therapist

Virtual • California

“Sessions are a calm, welcoming space where you can show up as you are, without pressure or judgment.”

Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Family Issues,

Empowering, Open-minded, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Jennifer Hattar

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I take a holistic approach to therapy, taking into consideration a person's childhood and upbringing, cultural, socioeconomic and spiritual practices and values.”

ADD/ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression,

Affirming, Empowering, Warm

Accepts Blue Shield of California, Aetna, Cigna,

View profile and book

Dr. Camellia Mazhar

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I work with attachment and evidence-based models of therapy, so that you can be confident my techniques do make lasting change.”

Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues,

Affirming, Empowering, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

View profile and book

Dr. Noah Hass-Cohen

Psychologist

Virtual • California

“I am a psychologist and professor who uses research supported positive psychology, solution focused and creative arts therapies psychotherapy.”

Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief or loss,

Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Aetna, Carelon Behavioral Health,

View profile and book

Lilly Flores

Therapist

Virtual • California

“My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable showing up exactly as you are, without judgment or pressure to have everything figured out.”

Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues, Grief or loss,

Empowering, Open-minded, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

View profile and book

Estela Posternak

Therapist

Virtual • California

“Awareness of thoughts and feelings, understanding the difference between acting, reacting or letting go, coping skills to manage situation in daily living.”

Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues,

Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Tina Logan

Therapist

Virtual • California

I provide clients with tools. discernment, and hope for the future. My sessions are supportive, helping to guide, and encourage you with a caring. compassionate, and non-judgmental approach. When you feel that your train has gotten off track, I will help you get back on track. Christian counseling is also available upon request.

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues,

Affirming, Direct, Solution-oriented

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Ana Reed

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I firmly believe you are the expert of your own life experience. Through a patient-centered approach, we'll build a collaborative and dynamic partnership...”

Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues, Grief or loss,

Empowering, Open-minded, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Janelle Mccoy

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I utilize a strength-based approach to therapy, encouraging clients to engage in self-exploration to better understand their mental health challenges.”

Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression,

Direct, Empowering, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

View profile and book

Latanya Burley

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I focus on creating a genuine therapeutic relationship built on trust, empathy, respect, and open communication.”

ADD/ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder,

Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Aetna, Cigna,

View profile and book

Rachelle Felix

Therapist

Virtual • California

“My goal is to hold space and facilitate resiliency and growth to thrive through life's challenges and daily stressors.”

Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues, Maternal Mental Health,

Challenging, Open-minded, Solution-oriented

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

View profile and book

Mal Ragunathan

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I aim to listen deeply to what troubles you and hold space for your own process of self discovery in a way that enables you to go beyond the surface...”

Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues, Grief or loss,

Holistic, Open-minded, Warm

Accepts Aetna insurance

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Christopher Kincheloe

Therapist

Virtual • San Diego, CA

“I use approaches like CBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing to help you better understand yourself and build tools that actually work in real life.”

Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression,

Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented

Accepts Aetna, United Healthcare, Carelon Behavioral Health,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Julia Hamilton

Therapist

Virtual • California

“My practice centers radical tolerance, creating an affirming, compassionate, and culturally responsive safe space.”

Anxiety, Family Issues, Grief or loss, LGBTQIA+,

Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Joshua Levitt

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I am dedicated to the idea that treatment can be both rewarding and fun, and have been able to apply this idea in every setting I have worked in by including activities such as games to help promote self-esteem, and even incorporating Dungeons and...”

Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues, Grief or loss,

Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Aetna, Cigna,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Oprah Diop

Therapist

Virtual • California

My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, heard, and supported. I am open-minded, easy to talk to, and strive to build genuine connections that make therapy feel more like a conversation than an interview. Many people describe me as someone who feels familiar, like they’ve known me for years. I believe in using humor, collaboration, and practical strategies to help navigate life’s challenges while honoring each person’s culture, experiences, and values.

Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues,

Creative, Humorous, Open-minded

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

View profile and book

Jennifer Fard

Therapist

Virtual • Laguna Hills, CA

“I particularly enjoy working with high-functioning adults who are used to being the dependable one, the professional, parent, partner, or person everyone else turns to, but are tired of overthinking, carrying too much, or constantly feeling "on."”

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues,

Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Hector Calderon

Therapist

Virtual • California

“Healing begins with feeling seen and understood, and you do not have to navigate growth, change, or uncertainty alone.”

Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression,

Empowering, Humorous, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Blue Shield of California, Aetna,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Nicole Juliano

Therapist

Virtual & in-person

11549 Los Osos Valley Road, San Luis Obispo, CA

“I have over 9 years of experience working with children, individuals, and families that have experienced trauma and challenging life experiences.”

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues,

Empowering, Humorous, Participatory

Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Carelon Behavioral Health,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Alisha Adebayo

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA

“I believe strongly in meeting you where you are. Even if it is a place you have never opened the doors for another.”

ADD/ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder,

Affirming, Creative, Humorous

Accepts Blue Shield of California, Aetna, United Healthcare,

View profile and book

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Find 9012 therapists in California

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Frequently asked questions

Does my insurance cover therapy in California?

How much will my therapy session cost in California?

How do I find a therapist in California who accepts my insurance?

Which insurance plans does Headway accept in California?

Do I have to pay to use Headway?

When am I going to be charged?

How do I pay for my care?

Are video visits with a therapist online covered by my insurance?

Are all the clinicians on Headway licensed?

Is online therapy more affordable than in-person therapy?

Is there a difference between a therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist?

What can I expect at my first therapy session?

Is virtual therapy with a California therapist an option for me if I’m located in a different state?

What therapy types do Headway's therapists offer?

Find the right therapist for you

Find the right therapist for you