Find an Aetna therapist in La Jolla, CA
Book a therapist or psychiatrist in La Jolla, CA covered by Aetna


Top Aetna-covered therapists and psychiatrists in La Jolla, CA
Aetna members in La Jolla can access therapy through Headway with copays around $30, saving an average of 75% on mental health care. Choose from thousands of providers specializing in talk therapy and medication management, with flexible scheduling and next-day availability options.
I am Shaliss Padilla MA, LMFT, the Founder, CEO and Clinical Supervisor of group private practice MindbodyologyTM. I am also a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology. In addition, I am a Holistic Psychotherapist, (or what I have coined a MindbodyologistTM), also a Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Specialist. I offer live and online support groups and workshops for survivors of narcissitic abuse and toxic relationships.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and Lead Clinician. I received my Master of Arts from Western Kentucky University have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1996 and provided services in child welfare settings involving abused and neglected children and parents who experienced addiction, trauma, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. I also have years of experience working in a private practice setting, working with teens, adults, couples and active duty military. I also specialize in treating trauma and PTSD using EMDR.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California and Washington and provide outpatient psychotherapy services in-person and via telehealth. I have been licensed for approximately 1.5 years, and have 7 years of supervised clinical experience across rehabilitation clinics, community mental health, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, where I trained under licensed psychologists before becoming licensed myself.
I primarily work with first responders, active-duty military personnel, and veterans. These professions often involve repeated exposure to stress, uncertainty, trauma, and significant personal sacrifice, which can affect well-being, relationships, and life outside of work. My goal is to help clients navigate these challenges while also building lives that feel meaningful, fulfilling, and aligned with what matters most to them.
My clinical training and professional experience include working with veterans within the Veterans Health Administration and providing trauma-focused treatment for first responders in intensive outpatient settings. Through this work, I have gained an appreciation for the unique demands associated with careers that require individuals to perform under pressure, respond to critical incidents, and regularly place the needs of others before their own. This perspective continues to inform my work with clients as they navigate challenges both on and off the job.
Helping others has always been a desire of mine. Helping clients with a variety of issues such as anxiety, relationship issues, marriage issues, parenting, life skills, pornography, anger, and many more. I have seen and heard a lot of issues from a lot of different people who have had hardship and others who just needed guidance. I believe that we all come from different walks of life and sometimes on our journey; we may get steered in the wrong direction. It is my desire to help guide you back in the right direction. I want to validate your emotions and makes sure you are heard.
I am a passionate clinical therapist who loves working with children, women, couples and families going through challenging times. Are you and your your child having trouble communicating? Are you and your spouse having trouble communicating? Do you see them going through a hard time, long to help but don't know how? Do you suffer from Bipolar Disorder? I am here for you. Do you feel undone by anxiety or depression and don't know how to "shake it off"?
Hi I'm Natalie and I want to help you build a life that feels authentic and purposeful. Do you feel like you’re navigating life on autopilot, and have difficulty showing up for your work, your relationships, or yourself? You may find yourself caught in cycles of people-pleasing or seeking external validation, only to end up feeling drained and unfulfilled. If you feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, know that you don’t have to navigate this alone. In our sessions, we’ll move beyond the 'what' to understand the roots of your struggle while building practical, compassionate strategies to help you reclaim your confidence and advocate for your needs.
Hello! I'm Gurleen Hans, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to supporting individuals on their mental health journey. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and have five years of nursing experience working with diverse populations and cultures. My passion for mental health care stems from a genuine love of caring for others and witnessing the transformative power of compassionate, evidence-based treatment.
I specialize in medication management for adults and adolescents experiencing a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and co-occurring substance use disorders. My experience spans both partial hospitalization programs and community-based outpatient settings, allowing me to understand the full spectrum of mental health needs—from acute crisis stabilization to ongoing maintenance care.
I have provided psychiatric services in various behavioral health settings, including work with interdisciplinary teams to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care. I have particular expertise in serving individuals with severe and persistent mental illness (SPMI), and I'm committed to meeting clients where they are in their recovery journey.
My approach integrates holistic wellness principles with pharmacological interventions, recognizing that effective treatment addresses the whole person. I stay current with emerging research through ongoing professional development, ensuring you receive evidence-based care.
I prioritize open communication and actively involve you in treatment decisions. Whether you're seeking support for the first time or looking for medication optimization, I bring clinical expertise combined with cultural sensitivity and an understanding that each person's mental health story is unique. I'm honored to support you on your path toward wellness, and lasting hope.
I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my masters degree in Social Work from CSU Bakersfield. I have been working with children and adolescents for the past five years. My work is person-centered, who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationships, and life transitions.
With a Masters in Holistic Counseling Psychology as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #106892) and with a Masters Certification in Intuitive and Energy Medicine (MIM) I offer an integrative approach that blends evidence based therapeutic modalities with psycho-spiritual practices to support healing, growth, and transformation for personal and spiritual development.
Hi, I’m Mercy Nyeche, DNP, PMHNP-BC. I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping adults regain clarity, confidence, and emotional balance.
Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming especially when you’re used to being the strong one for everyone else. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, life transitions, or feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, you don’t have to do it alone.
My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and evidence-based. I take time to truly listen, understand your goals, and create a personalized treatment plan that fits your life, not just your symptoms.
Please note that I do not provide disability paperwork, leave of absence documentation, FMLA forms, legal letters, school accommodation letters, or other administrative forms. The only documentation I provide is a work excuse note for the date of your appointment and, when clinically appropriate based on my evaluation and professional judgment, up to three (3) days off from work. If you require any of the services or documentation listed above, I kindly ask that you schedule with another provider who offers those services. Thank you for your understanding and for helping ensure that your healthcare needs are matched with the appropriate provider.
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.
Frequently asked questions


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.
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