Skip to main content
Headway

Find a therapist in La Mesa, CA — covered by insurance

Therapist and patient in a therapy session
Calculator Illustration
Get a cost estimate
People with insurance pay as low as $0 per session through Headway

Top therapists in La Mesa, CA accepting new patients

Find mental health support in La Mesa with 8,985 licensed providers ready to help. Whether you're in Grossmont, Spring Valley, or nearby neighborhoods, access talk therapy and medication management through flexible in-person or virtual sessions. Many patients save 75% on care with insurance coverage.

Theresa Searles

Theresa Searles

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Mount Shasta, CA


“My goal is to work with my clients to increase self-empowerment and learn new tools to overcome life challenges.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Alec Bustos

Alec Bustos

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in working with children, teens, adults, and families, especially those navigating trauma, emotional dysregulation, neurodivergence, adoption/foster care, and identity exploration.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jamie Littleton

Jamie Littleton

Therapist

Virtual • California


I believe therapy should feel like a space where you can finally exhale. I strive to create an environment that is supportive, honest, and free of judgment; a place where you feel truly seen and emotionally safe. My approach is collaborative and practical. I don’t just help you understand why you feel the way you do; I help you build real tools to navigate it.

I earned my degree from Cal State Fullerton and have extensive experience working in addiction treatment, eating disorder recovery, and women’s issues. Supporting women is especially meaningful to me. I am deeply passionate about helping women navigate challenges related to self-worth, body image, relationships, boundaries, life transitions, and identity. I understand how trauma, societal expectations, and relational dynamics can shape how women see themselves, and I approach this work with both compassion and clarity.

Together, we focus on strengthening mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and communication skills in ways that feel realistic and sustainable. I blend insight-oriented exploration with concrete strategies, because meaningful change happens when insight meets action. My goal is to help you better understand your patterns, feel more confident managing your emotions, and move forward with greater clarity, self-trust, and resilience.

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Katranker Thompson

Katranker Thompson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy should feel safe, supportive, and collaborative. My goal is to meet you where you are...”
Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Inquisitive, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Kristina Daniel

Kristina Daniel

Therapist

Virtual • Eureka, CA


“I take a collaborative, curious approach to therapy, working alongside you to better understand your experiences and help you move toward meaningful change.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Avon Jones

Avon Jones

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My role is to create a supportive, respectful space where you feel understood and encouraged as you work toward the changes you want in your life.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Jennifer Ayala

Dr. Jennifer Ayala

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“A central part of my work is instilling hope—reminding clients that even when life feels overwhelming, healing and change are possible.”
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Panic disorders
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Crystal Johnson

Crystal Johnson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to help you feel truly heard and understood as we work together to identify and change the thought and behavior patterns that keep you from feeling your best.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Malliga Battar

Malliga Battar

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a seasoned behavioral health and forensic psychology leader with over 20 years of experience in county, correctional, and community settings. I hold a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, two master’s degrees, and I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist as of 2019. My work centers on trauma‐informed care, substance use, sexual abuse victims and offenders, crisis intervention, and forensic experiences.

ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Empowering, Energetic, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Crystal Folk

Crystal Folk

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My counseling style is warm and interactive; I believe in treating everyone with respect, being sensitive, and meeting each client in the space that they are in.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Challenging, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Gemma Santiago

Gemma Santiago

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe healing happens within safe and supportive relationships. My approach is warm, direct, and trauma-informed...”
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, PTSD, Relationship issues
Direct, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sean Richards

Sean Richards

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I will challenge you in a warm yet effective environment. My clients have described me as the love and support they need.”
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Diabetes, End of life care
Direct, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jeanie Delacruz

Jeanie Delacruz

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My mission as your potential therapist is to support and uplift you while you heal and continue to develop each day to be the best version of yourself.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Dr. Farah Pezeshki

Dr. Farah Pezeshki

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I believe every person can determine the best solutions for their unique selves when given the opportunity to take the lead and develop trust in making their own decisions.”
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lindsay Murad

Lindsay Murad

Therapist

Virtual • Costa Mesa, CA


“With over 12 years of experience, I offer a blend of biblical wisdom, prayerful discernment, and practical coaching techniques...”
Anxiety, Depression, Stress management, Women's issues
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. John Keay

Dr. John Keay

Psychologist

Virtual • California


I'm John, a licensed psychologist practicing in Utah and California. I started out in information technology because I loved computers and making sense of data, but over time I found I enjoyed working with people more than working with machines, so I went back to school and earned my doctorate in clinical psychology (PsyD). Since then I have worked in counseling centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals, and schools, and I have really enjoyed applying the science of psychology to help people understand themselves and navigate the challenges of everyday life. I see teens, young adults, adults, and older adults for concerns including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, life transitions, relationships, men's mental health, and questions of religion and spirituality.

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Michele Scyoc

Michele Scyoc

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work closely with individuals and families exploring emotional and behavioral concerns at home and school related to Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADD/ADHD, and anxiety disorders.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Angela Otegbulu

Dr. Angela Otegbulu

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Gardena, CA


“My approach is warm, collaborative, and individualized. I take time to understand what you are experiencing...”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, OCD
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Keith Nesbitt

Keith Nesbitt

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have been a crisis clinician much of that time helping ease the pain in the most acute psychiatric situations.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Stress management
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Bonni Funk

Bonni Funk

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I've had over 20 years experience in helping people heal from co-dependency, particularly from those with narcissistic behaviors.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Cora Taylor

Cora Taylor

Therapist

Virtual • California


I'm a licensed psychotherapist and I've been working clinically since 2015. I use David Burns' TEAM-CBT approach (he has several great books you might be familiar with). However, sometimes CBT feels too focused on thoughts. In those cases, I tend to use DBT interventions which include more emotional awareness and regulation.

Anxiety, Depression, Panic disorders, Relationship issues, Sleep disorder
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Allan Daniel

Allan Daniel

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Eureka, CA


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience providing psychotherapy to adolescents and adults across a range of emotional and behavioral concerns. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is supportive, respectful, and non-judgmental, where clients feel safe to explore their experiences openly. I believe that emotional distress is a natural response to life’s challenges and that, with appropriate support, individuals can develop insight, resilience, and effective coping strategies. I am committed to working collaboratively with clients from diverse backgrounds and identities, including LGBTQIA+ and gender-diverse individuals, and I prioritize creating an affirming and inclusive therapeutic space.

ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Family issues, Identity issues
Humorous, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Laura Myer

Laura Myer

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that daily habits and lifestyle play a vital role in overall wellness, including mental health.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Emily Elrod-Black

Emily Elrod-Black

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Luis Obispo, CA


“As someone who has recovered from serious mental health challenges, I offer support that comes from both my clinical training and genuine life experiences.”
Anxiety, Eating disorders, Identity issues, Relationship issues, Stress management
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mary Lightholder

Mary Lightholder

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Most importantly, I meet YOU where you're at. Whether you are struggling to find emotional safety or seeking to build self-trust...”
Anxiety, Chronic conditions, End of life care, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Cecily Kaballo

Dr. Cecily Kaballo

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I am warm and collaborative, and emphasize building a strong therapeutic alliance while also identifying a client's short- and long-term goals.”
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Polly Charette

Polly Charette

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in PTSD, complex trauma, traumatic brain injury, anxiety, chronic pain, and the lasting effects of growing up in alcoholic or dysfunctional families.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Panic disorders, Physical health issues, PTSD
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Gabe Veas

Dr. Gabe Veas

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is warm, direct, and engaged. I listen carefully, ask thoughtful questions, offer honest feedback, and challenge you when it may help.”
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care, Grief or loss
Creative, Direct, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Tomas Torres

Tomas Torres

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I take a holistic approach to care, addressing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—to support long-term mental wellness.”
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Alexandra Matustik

Alexandra Matustik

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“My hope is for you to have a deeper, more compassionate relationship to yourself, the important people in your life, and the world around you.”
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Creative, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Mercedes Frierson

Mercedes Frierson

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“I believe healing often begins with something simple but powerful: an invitation to have a conversation.”
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care, Family issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Andrew Sutherland

Andrew Sutherland

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi! I'm andrew (Drew) Sutherland. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist focusing on helping people feel better day to day, month to month, or year to year. Do you feel like you should be enjoying life more? Do thoughts of the past or images from a future keep you from moving forward with the things you want to do? Do you feel as if you are a passenger in your life rather than the one driving action, growth, change, and happiness? I understand. I felt the same way before I began my mental health journey. I use a client centered approach and tailor my work to what you need. You are in the driver's seat. Together, we will collaboratively work to help you become what you have only imagined.

Anger management, Anxiety, Men's issues, Panic disorders, PTSD
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Cirsten Brinson

Cirsten Brinson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I firmly believe in the inherent resilience of every individual. My practice is rooted in a strengths-based approach...”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Melvis Memeh

Melvis Memeh

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Riverside, CA


“I focus on the whole person — not just symptoms or tasks. That means listening carefully, understanding individual preferences, values, culture, and goals, and tailoring care accordingly.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Anastasia Grace

Anastasia Grace

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that therapy is not just about healing what hurts, but about expanding your capacity for connection, clarity, and a more meaningful life.”
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care, Family issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Pritpal Sidhu

Pritpal Sidhu

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My goal is to provide a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and supported.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Holistic, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Danielle Moore

Danielle Moore

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you.”
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Relationship issues
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Daniel Blitch

Daniel Blitch

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy is a space where curiosity and honesty meet growth. My approach is both exploratory and grounded.”
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Challenging, Inquisitive
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Jennifer Udo

Jennifer Udo

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I believe good mental health care starts with listening and understanding each person's unique experience.”
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Christina Alexander-Petersen

Christina Alexander-Petersen

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have been working as a therapist over the last 25 years I work from a cognitive behavioral standpoint.”
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, Family issues
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
121 - 160 of

About our therapists located within 20 miles of La Mesa, CA

Number of therapists within 20 miles of La Mesa, CA
There are over 62 therapists in La Mesa, CA accepting new patients.
62+
Average years in practice
Watercolor illustration of a bookshelf
11 years
Top specialties offered
Watercolor illustration of specialties
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 94%Depression
  • 90%Stress management
  • 87%Relationship issues
  • 74%Family issues
Insurances accepted
Watercolor illustration of insurance cards
  • 100%Aetna
  • 66%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 63%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 53%Providence Health Plan
  • 50%Cigna
Languages spoken
Watercolor illustration of languages
  • 90%English
  • 29%Spanish
  • 2%American Sign Language
  • 2%Arabic
  • 2%French
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 94%In-person or online
  • 6%In-person only
Provider gender
Watercolor illustration of gender identity
  • 69%Woman
  • 31%Man
License types
Watercolor illustration of license
  • 56%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 18%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 13%Clinical Psychologist
  • 10%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
  • 2%Medical Doctor
Treatment approaches
Watercolor illustration of treatment approach
  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 32%Family therapy
  • 19%Child or adolescent therapy
  • 15%Couples therapy

Frequently asked questions

Therapy Chair

Happy patient looking away

Find the right therapist for you

Headway makes it easy to find support for your mental health — from finding the right provider, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Therapist in La Mesa

Searching for therapists in La Mesa starts with finding someone whose experience matches what you want support with. Therapists can help with concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, grief, trauma, and life transitions. As you compare options, look for a therapist whose listed specialties, therapy style, and experience fit your needs. Bios can help you understand whether a therapist uses approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, or trauma-informed care.

La Mesa is a smaller city within the San Diego area, so local in-person options may vary by neighborhood, schedule, and office location. Virtual therapy can expand your search to therapists licensed in California, while in-person care may be a better fit if you prefer a local office near La Mesa, Grossmont, Spring Valley, or nearby parts of San Diego County. As you narrow your search, review appointment availability, whether the therapist is accepting new patients, and whether a free phone consultation is offered. Reading profiles before booking can also show how a therapist describes their communication style and what to expect in a first session.

Therapy in La Mesa can be a significant expense without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and see an estimated out-of-pocket cost before you book. Headway helps you find therapists who match your preferences, accept a wide range of insurance plans, and offer direct booking for in-person or virtual appointments. You can browse therapists, review bios, and book when you’re ready.

Explore more therapists in California

Use left and right arrow keys to switch tabs. Press Shift+Tab to return to the tab list from links in the selected tab.

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