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 8531 therapists in California

Amy Flores

Therapist

Virtual • California

“My passion is to help clients find their inner strength and have a better understanding of themselves.”

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

Energetic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented

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

View profile and book

Qadar Abukamleh

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I like to increase your self awareness, install hope and challenge/ support you to achieve your therapy goals.”

Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues,

Challenging, Direct, Empowering

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Jessica Perales

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I am an LPCC that exuberates compassion and understanding and creates a safe and empowering environment...”

Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression,

Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Alexandra Brown

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I help ambitious professionals and parents bridge the gap between outward success and internal peace.”

Anxiety, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Trauma,

Direct, Empowering, Holistic

Accepts Aetna insurance

View profile and book

Arthur Belmont

Therapist

Virtual • California

“By learning to identify and challenge negative thoughts, you can improve your emotional well-being and behaviors.”

Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQIA+, Relationship Issues,

Open-minded, Participatory, Solution-oriented

Accepts Blue Shield of California, Aetna, United Healthcare,

View profile and book

Pamela Anderson

Therapist

Virtual • California

“You need to feel heard and understood! Come. The REAL you. Let's sit together and examine the things that occupy your mind, your time.”

Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues,

Creative, Empowering, Solution-oriented

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Carilla Clements

Therapist

Virtual • California

“Sessions are a welcoming space where you can be honest, take a breath, and feel heard without judgment.”

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

Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded

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

View profile and book

Kevin Lu

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Jose, CA

“He prioritizes ensuring his patients feel heard and understood while seeking to partner with clients to provide a comprehensive and collaborative approach to developing personalized treatment plans and optimized medication management that target...”

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

Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented

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

View profile and book

Brittany McLaren

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I work diligently to create an open and compassionate environment where clients feel genuinely heard and supported.”

Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss

Empowering, Open-minded, Warm

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

View profile and book

Dr. Crystal Flores

Psychologist

Virtual • Moreno Valley, CA

“I understand that the most important factor for successful psychotherapy is the therapeutic relationship.”

ADD/ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression,

Direct, Empowering, Holistic

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

View profile and book

Sunyata Ono

Therapist

Virtual • California

“My approach to therapy integrates psychodynamic principles with a strong emphasis on mindfulness practices.”

Anxiety, Family Issues, Grief or loss, Maternal Mental Health,

Empowering, Open-minded, Warm

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

David Diaz

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I am here to remind you that it is okay to start something new, normal to lean into discomfort for growth, & that your future self will be extremely proud of you.”

Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues, Grief or loss,

Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Krystal Handy

Therapist

Virtual • California

“Dr. Handy specializes in treatment of: survivors of trauma, residual impact of the BIPOC (i.e., Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities, Christians that practice or struggle with their practice of the faith, and those "of any ethnicity"...”

Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues, Grief or loss,

Direct, Empowering, Humorous

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

View profile and book

Maryam Afshari

Therapist

Virtual • California

“My therapy style is warm, active, and without judgment. My goal is to build confidence and create a safe space where clients can feel open by sharing their thoughts, feelings, and emotions.”

Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss,

Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded

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

View profile and book

Katie Miller

Therapist

Virtual • South Lake Tahoe, CA

“I am an integrative therapist that listens actively, seeks to understand you, and engages with you to help you reach your goals.”

Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues, Grief or loss,

Affirming, Direct, Participatory

Accepts Blue Shield of California, Carelon Behavioral Health

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Phillip McKinnon

Therapist

Virtual & in-person

41750 Rancho Las Palmas Drive, Rancho Mirage, CA

I'm a therapist based in the Coachella Valley with a broad scope. I work with individuals, couples, families, and children navigating some of life's most difficult terrain: trauma and PTSD, anxiety and depression, substance use and addiction, family conflict, grief, anger, and the particular pressures that come with being a man in a culture that rarely teaches men how to ask for help.

I offer both in-person sessions in the valley and telehealth appointments throughout California. My approach is direct but never harsh, structured but never rigid. I don't believe in one-size-fits-all therapy, I meet you where you actually are.

Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues,

Humorous, Open-minded, Warm

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

View profile and book

Stephanie Otterstetter

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I believe therapy is not about having all the answers—it is about creating a space where you can better understand yourself, recognize your strengths, and begin making meaningful changes at your own pace.”

Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues, Grief or loss,

Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Marissa Rodriguez

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I have evolved into an experienced Integrative Therapist. Truly believing and knowing, our minds, our bodies and our spirits are designed to heal themselves.”

Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Family Issues,

Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Maria Montalvan

Therapist

Virtual & in-person

229 F Street, Chula Vista, CA

“I see therapy as a partnership where we work together to understand your experiences and create lasting change.”

Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues, Relationship Issues,

Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm

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

View profile and book

Chidinma Nwankwo

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Francisco, CA

“She prioritizes building a solid therapeutic relationship with her patients based on trust, empathy, and respect.”

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders,

Empowering, Holistic, Participatory

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

View profile and book

Janeen Murphy

Therapist

Virtual & in-person

911 21st Street, Paso Robles, CA

“I have had extensive training and experience providing trauma focused, attachment based therapeutic treatment.”

ADD/ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression,

Humorous, Inquisitive, Warm

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Marylee Nambu

Therapist

Virtual • California

“As a trauma survivor with 35 years of sobriety, I understand the recovery process from the inside out, as well as from the outside in through the lens of my training as a therapist.”

Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Eating Disorders,

Affirming, Open-minded, Warm

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Tanisha Mosley

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I believe therapy should be a mix of deep healing and self-discovery—kind of like an abstract painting with a powerful message.”

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

Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded

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

View profile and book

Michael Mann

Therapist

Virtual & in-person

75 North Marengo Avenue, Pasadena, CA

I work primarily with men in their 20s and 30s, teens, and families. I worked in education for a few years before going back to grad school because I saw a need for mental health care for the families and teens I worked with. I worked in community mental health from 2016-2018 before moving into private practice.

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues,

Empowering, Participatory, Warm

Accepts Aetna, United Healthcare, Cigna,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Ashley Rodriguez

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I believe therapy is about understanding you as a whole person while also helping you find relief from the symptoms and struggles that are impacting your life.”

Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues, Maternal Mental Health,

Affirming, Empowering, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Aetna, Cigna,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Dr. Chioma Igwiloh

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA

“My style is calm, respectful, and practical, focusing on measurable progress and long-term stability.”

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

Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory

Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Carelon Behavioral Health,

View profile and book

Juliana Fabio

Therapist

Virtual • California

“My goal is to create a space where you feel supported, understood, and not alone in what you're carrying.”

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

Rachel Unger

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I listen with compassion and provide a safe space for clients to explore and express their feelings and thoughts.”

Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Sleep disorder,

Affirming, Empowering, Holistic

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

View profile and book

Jonah Stullman

Therapist

Virtual & in-person

418 Alhambra Boulevard, Sacramento, CA

“I believe healing happens when we slow down and pay attention to patterns, to pain points, and to the strengths that already exist within you.”

ADD/ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression,

Empowering, Holistic, Warm

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

View profile and book

Bridget Kleinert

Therapist

Virtual • California

“My approach is practical, collaborative, and insight-driven, helping you break down complex patterns and build actionable strategies for everyday life.”

ADD/ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression,

Creative, Open-minded, Warm

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Brent Kornish

Therapist

Virtual • Berkeley, CA

“I primarily support adults, including veterans, active-duty military, law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, and other first responders who are navigating depression, anxiety, anger, relationship struggles, life transitions, or the lasting effects of...”

Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD

Inquisitive, Participatory, Solution-oriented

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

View profile and book

Erica Metu

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California

“My communication style is warm, empathetic, and collaborative. In sessions, I create a tone that is open and nonjudgmental, so patients feel safe sharing their experiences honestly.”

ADD/ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression,

Direct, Open-minded, Warm

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Aetna, Cigna,

View profile and book

Alexis Cabrera

Therapist

Virtual • California

I commit to supporting your growth whilst challenging your outdated defense mechanisms. Old patterns got you this far, and my Gestalt training allows me to see your obstacles as creative adjustments. I will empower you to choose, consciously, what works and what works no longer.

ADD/ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression,

Direct, Humorous, Warm

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

View profile and book

Krista Gerdts

Therapist

Virtual • Santa Monica, CA

“My style is warm, engaged, and genuinely curious — if you're ready to stop going through the motions and start actually feeling like yourself again, I'd love to work with you.”

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues,

Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Carelon Behavioral Health, Curative,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Jaspreet Takhar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California

“She provides compassionate and holistic care to support patients in working towards their mental health goals.”

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression,

Affirming, Challenging, Empowering

Accepts Anthem Blue Cross California, Aetna, United Healthcare,

View profile and book

Cindy Lynn

Therapist

Virtual • California

“The Psychotherapy session is the client's time to focus on self, and who, what and why is most important and valuable for the client; therapy is client centered...”

Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, PTSD,

Direct, Empowering, Inquisitive

Accepts Blue Shield of California, Aetna, Cigna,

View profile and book

Hamilton To

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I am a compassionate and collaborative therapist who values creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for growth.”

Anxiety, Depression, Trauma

Affirming, Empowering, Humorous

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

View profile and book

Evelyn M Batres

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I am a compassionate and client-centered telehealth therapist. My approach emphasizes specifically in each individual person's unique strengths, needs, and preferences to create a therapeutic experience that is both empowering and effective.”

ADD/ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression,

Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Ashley Olson

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I have over a decade of experience in social work, bringing a warm, grounded, and compassionate approach to telehealth practice.”

Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues, Grief or loss,

Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded

Accepts Blue Shield of California, Aetna, Cigna,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Jerrica Danhoff

Therapist

Virtual • California

“I believe therapy can be a space to slow down, feel genuinely understood, and reconnect with the parts of yourself that may have gotten lost along the way.”

Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues, Grief or loss,

Affirming, Empowering, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Carelon Behavioral Health, Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey,

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

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Features

Find 8531 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