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Find an Aetna therapist in Encinitas, CA

Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Encinitas, CA covered by Aetna

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Top Aetna-covered therapists and psychiatrists in Encinitas, CA

Access mental health support in Encinitas through Aetna insurance with Headway's extensive network. With copays ranging from $0-$35 and free consultations available, you can start your journey toward wellness today.

Mark Awanyai

Mark Awanyai

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Laguna Hills, CA


I work with adults facing ADHD, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, sleep issues, and substance use, offering clear, practical help—no guesswork. You might feel overwhelmed, stuck, have trouble sleeping, or struggle to focus. We follow a structured approach to understand your situation and develop a treatment plan that progresses. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and focused follow-up using evidence-based and trauma-informed strategies. The process is simple, with clear steps and adjustments based on your progress. If you're ready to proceed, reach out.

Aetna + 7 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Kristine Lomas

Kristine Lomas

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Mission Viejo, CA


“My goal is to help you feel more like yourself, function more fully, and move toward a life that feels meaningful to you.”
Aetna + 5 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Marcela Castellanos

Marcela Castellanos

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Lake Forest, CA


“I have helped guide adults, and adolescents from various cultural backgrounds, who struggle with various challenges in life, such as disturbances from childhood, trauma, anxiety, and depression.”
Aetna + 7 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Theresa Russo

Theresa Russo

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Lake Forest, CA


“Theresa Russo is a client-centered and solution-focused therapist who integrates various modalities and techniques to provide a judgment-free, personal approach to each client.”
Aetna + 10 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, PTSD
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Steven Aird

Steven Aird

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Lake Forest, CA


“I focus on establishing a safe, collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship, creating the framework for the work we will do together.”
Aetna + 10 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Giovanna Nicola-Menke

Giovanna Nicola-Menke

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Laguna Hills, CA


“Drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness practices, I help clients build awareness around their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and develop practical skills for coping and growth.”
Aetna + 3 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Krysta Boyle

Krysta Boyle

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Laguna Hills, CA


“I strive to create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel safe to be themselves.”
Aetna + 1 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Dr. Nazanin Karandish

Dr. Nazanin Karandish

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Irvine, CA


“I believe therapy is a collaborative work and I enjoy helping my clients live life to their fullest potential.”
Aetna + 9 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Holistic, Participatory
Mahsan Behnoud

Mahsan Behnoud

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Irvine, CA


“Together we can identify mental/emotional blocks, reprocess past disturbing memories, and develop mental agility to experience the life you deserve to flourish in.”
Aetna + 3 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ning Cornwell

Ning Cornwell

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Newport Beach, CA


Hi, my name is Ning! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Social and Behavioral Sciences and a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. For the past seven years, I have worked with children, teens, adults, and older adults facing stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, major life transitions, complex mental health conditions. My clinical work focuses on anxiety and mood disorders, and I combine cognitive and somatic techniques with talk therapy to address root causes and foster lasting personal growth.

Aetna + 4 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Open-minded, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Yemmy Taylor

Dr. Yemmy Taylor

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Irvine, CA


“I believe therapy should be a place where you feel heard, understood, and supported without judgment.”
Aetna + 7 others
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Michelle Fuller

Michelle Fuller

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Irvine, CA


Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, but more importantly, I am a safe space, an advocate, a collaborator, and a sounding board. I specialize in trauma/intergenerational trauma, depression, anxiety, identity incongruency, and general life stage/cycle challenges. I am EMDR trained, and a Certified Grief Informed Counselor.

Aetna + 5 others
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ariane Djeussoung

Ariane Djeussoung

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Upland, CA


“I believe in treating symptoms by using an holistic approach in addressing the root causes of mental health issues.”
Aetna + 10 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Josiah Peratoner

Josiah Peratoner

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Irvine, CA


I'm Josiah — a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) offering in-person sessions in Irvine and telehealth sessions across California. My work centers on three communities I care deeply about: veterans navigating the often-invisible work of coming home, LGBTQ+ individuals and couples looking for a therapist who genuinely gets it, and parents who are doing their best while carrying more than they show. I'm Transgender Allied, trained in trauma-informed and multicultural frameworks, and I work with individuals, couples, and families. Before anything else, I work hard to make sure you feel like yourself in the session — not a diagnosis, not a file.

Aetna + 6 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Challenging, Energetic
Celia Fierro

Celia Fierro

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Newport Beach, CA


I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in trauma, PTSD/CPTSD, attachment wounds, grief, anxiety and relationship concerns. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, families, veterans, and military-connected clients. My path into psychotherapy began through fine art, consciousness studies and contemplative practice, which continue to shape my appreciation for creativity, meaning, and the complexity of each person’s experience. I earned my M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, completed advanced training in psychedelic-assisted therapies at CIIS, and am pursuing a Ph.D. in Depth Psychology at Pacifica Graduate Institute.

Accepts Aetna insurance
Anxiety, End of life care, Family issues, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Creative, Inquisitive, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tongqing Zhu

Tongqing Zhu

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Irvine, CA


I work with immigrate parents who need support with homework resistance, screen-time battles, power struggles, and other behavior challenges at home — especially in Asian families navigating bicultural parenting.

I help parents manage unwanted behaviors and rebuild connection with their children. Whether you’re tired of constant homework fights or overwhelmed by excessive video gaming and school refusal, we will work together to reduce these challenges with practical, structured tools.

Aetna + 7 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Creative, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Grant Robinson

Grant Robinson

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Newport Beach, CA


“I offer an authentic and trusted healing experience using empathy, reflection, and a variety of coping skills to empower and create healthy change.”
Aetna + 4 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Empowering, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Aidin Tajbakhsh

Dr. Aidin Tajbakhsh

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Newport Beach, CA


I see therapy as a collaborative journey, where I walk alongside you rather than ahead of you. For nearly a decade, I’ve had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, autism, substance use, chronic pain, and life transitions. My background in clinical psychology, along with board certification in biofeedback and neurofeedback, allows me to integrate both psychological and physiological approaches to healing. Most importantly, I deeply respect the uniqueness of your lived experience and strive to create a space where you feel understood, supported, and empowered.

Aetna + 7 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lori Vasquez

Lori Vasquez

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Newport Beach, CA


“I especially enjoy supporting women and young adults, including women navigating postpartum anxiety, depression, and the adjustment to motherhood.”
Aetna + 9 others
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression, Eating disorders
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Salma Shah

Salma Shah

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Irvine, CA


“I'm a relational trauma psychotherapist specializing in healing from childhood attachment trauma and how we see ourselves and relate to other, breakups, divorce, and toxic abusive relationships.”
Aetna + 9 others
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tania Brunner

Tania Brunner

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Irvine, CA


I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, confidence, and self-compassion. I work with adolescents and adults who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, low self-worth, family conflict, and major life transitions.

My approach is both compassionate and collaborative. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and not judged. I believe that therapy is not one-size-fits-all, so I tailor my work to meet your unique needs and goals. Together, we’ll explore patterns, build healthier coping strategies, and work toward meaningful, lasting change.

I have experience supporting clients through complex family dynamics, cultural expectations, and identity development. I also work closely with individuals dealing with disordered eating and body image concerns, helping them develop a more balanced and trusting relationship with themselves.

Clients often describe me as warm, direct, and thoughtful. I will meet you with empathy while also gently challenging you when needed to help you grow.

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. My goal is to walk alongside you as you build insight, resilience, and a life that feels more aligned with who you are.

Aetna + 3 others
Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Substance use / addiction
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Manuel Cruz

Manuel Cruz

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Tustin, CA


“I strive to create a safe, non-judgemental environment where I can meet my clients where they are and help them learn to become the best version of themselves.”
Aetna + 3 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Challenging, Empowering, Open-minded

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Joe Arias

Joe Arias

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Riverside, CA


“Joe Arias is a Latinx and Queer Therapist eager to provide a judgment-free space where you can build self-compassion and feel that your voice is heard.”
Aetna + 7 others
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Janet Gichau

Janet Gichau

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Corona, CA


“My open-minded strategic approach and accepting individualism help me let the patient guide in discussing their personal health struggles.”
Aetna + 8 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Dr. Jose Cholula Bruno

Dr. Jose Cholula Bruno

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Santa Ana, CA


“I specialize in working with professionals, athletes, coaches, trainers, and other high-achieving individuals to address areas of anxiety and stress.”
Aetna + 3 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, PTSD
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Abdel Tayyem

Abdel Tayyem

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Corona, CA


Hi, I’m Abdel! With over 15 years of experience in healthcare, I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to providing compassionate care for individuals managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. As a bilingual speaker in English and Arabic, I specialize in creating an inclusive environment where patients from all backgrounds feel truly heard and respected. My goal is to empower you through open communication and evidence-based treatment to help you achieve lasting wellness.

Aetna + 5 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Maximiliano Cabellos

Maximiliano Cabellos

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Riverside, CA


Hi

My name is Maximiliano Cabellos, LMFT


I am here to support you in addressing your needs and help you discover an appropriate and healthy approach. My goal is to assist you in getting to the root of challenges and overcoming them to live a more fulfilled life.

Aetna + 8 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Humorous, Inquisitive

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michelle Johnson

Michelle Johnson

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Huntington Beach, CA


“My approach is attachment-focused and trauma-informed, drawing on EMDR, somatic therapy to help clients not just talk about their struggles, but truly feel different in their relationships and daily lives.”
Aetna + 7 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, PTSD
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Sandra Castillo

Sandra Castillo

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Santa Ana, CA


“I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. ...My practice is dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental space where we can address your concerns—whether you are dealing with daily stressors, mood changes, or complex...”
Aetna + 6 others
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Participatory, Solution-oriented, Warm
Jennifer Moen

Jennifer Moen

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Huntington Beach, CA


“I use EMDR, Narrative Therapy, and trauma-responsive interventions in a direct and grounded way to facilitate meaningful, sustainable change.”
Aetna + 4 others
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, End of life care, Family issues
Challenging, Creative, Warm
Maria Cutler

Maria Cutler

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Tustin, CA


I believe that healing begins with feeling truly seen, heard, and understood. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in curiosity rather than judgment. Whether you're navigating anxiety, grief, life transitions, relationship struggles, or simply feeling stuck, I offer a space where you can explore what’s happening with honesty and compassion.

I draw from evidence-based modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and psychodynamic insights, while always tailoring my approach to your unique needs and goals. Together, we’ll work to uncover patterns, build insight, and develop practical strategies that help you move toward clarity and meaningful change.

Clients often describe me as calm, supportive, and direct in a kind way. I value humor when it’s helpful, and I work to foster a relationship where you feel safe enough to be real—even when it’s hard.

Reaching out takes courage, and finding the right fit is key. If you're looking for someone who will listen deeply, challenge gently, and walk alongside you at your pace, I’d be honored to work with you.

Aetna + 11 others
Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Grief or loss, Maternal mental health
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Erin Beldner-Martinez

Erin Beldner-Martinez

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Huntington Beach, CA


“I'm a licensed therapist who believes therapy works best when clients feel safe, understood and are met with compassion.”
Aetna + 1 others
Anxiety, Depression, Maternal mental health, PTSD, Relationship issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cynthia Wygal

Cynthia Wygal

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Corona, CA


“I provide a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment.”
Aetna + 10 others
Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Relationship issues, Stress management
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Van Nguyen

Van Nguyen

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Tustin, CA


“I have helped my clients resolve attachment issues by guiding them towards understanding the importance of secure attachment when it comes to mental health and well-being.”
Aetna + 14 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Justin Matar

Justin Matar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Corona, CA


My patients can expect me to be warm, empathetic, and genuinely interested in their story. I take time to understand not just current struggles, but also personal history and experiences that have shaped who they are. I believe that mental health is deeply connected to overall health, and treating psychiatric conditions can positively impact all areas of life. I work with all patients and conditions, and I always meet people where they are. If someone isn’t ready for medications, I fully support their choice and will be there to provide guidance, education, and care until the time feels right for them. Above all, I listen, I value each person’s perspective, and I aim to create a safe space where patients feel truly heard.

Aetna + 7 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Alyssa Glorioso

Alyssa Glorioso

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am eclectic but will typically use a blend of psychodynamic, attachment, and cognitive behavioral therapy.”
Aetna + 8 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Freddie Williams

Freddie Williams

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I create my sessions from a client-centered approach, supporting and partnering with my client in an environment of acceptance, understanding, and unconditional positive regard...”
Aetna + 7 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Ifunanya Ifeacho

Ifunanya Ifeacho

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My work sits at the intersection of psychiatry, primary care, and behavioral health — because I believe that true healing requires treating the whole person, not just a diagnosis.”
Aetna + 8 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Beth Sopkin

Beth Sopkin

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I use an authentic approach to therapy; I find that my clients respond well to me being myself with them, so that they then feel comfortable being themselves with me.”
Aetna + 9 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Creative, Open-minded, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mary Morra

Mary Morra

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a good listener and I want each person to feel deeply understood and validated in their experience while also reflecting back your best self. My strength is in my ability to articulate and provide coherence to your story and challenges so you can then make the changes you want for yourself.

Aetna + 6 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues, Infertility
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm

What type of therapy does Aetna cover?

Aetna plans can vary, but many cover a range of therapy types. Below are some common options that may be included in your coverage.
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Frequently asked questions

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Affordable care that fits you — and your Aetna plan

Headway makes it easy to get affordable in-network mental health care with Aetna — from finding the right therapist or psychiatrist, to understanding costs, to booking your first session.

Find a provider - your way

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1 Cost may vary based on your location, age, and insurance coverage.