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Find an Aetna therapist in Lake Forest, CA

Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Lake Forest, CA covered by Aetna

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Top Aetna-covered therapists and psychiatrists in Lake Forest, CA

Find Aetna-covered therapy in Lake Forest with Headway's network of 8,661 licensed providers. Sessions start as low as $30 copay, available in-person or virtually. Many clients save 75% on mental healthcare costs while accessing care within two weeks.

Steven Aird

Steven Aird

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 2.2 mi away • 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
Theresa Russo

Theresa Russo

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 2.2 mi away • 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
Dr. Nazanin Karandish

Dr. Nazanin Karandish

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 3.8 mi away • 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 • 4 mi away • 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
Kristine Lomas

Kristine Lomas

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 2.1 mi away • 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 • 2.2 mi away • 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
Kimberly Williams

Kimberly Williams

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 2.5 mi away • Laguna Hills, CA


“I work from a strengths-based perspective, helping you to recognize your strengths and achieve your goals in a thoughtful and supportive way.”
Aetna + 9 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, PTSD, Relationship issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Giovanna Nicola-Menke

Giovanna Nicola-Menke

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 2.8 mi away • 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 • 3.5 mi away • 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
Mark Awanyai

Mark Awanyai

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 3.9 mi away • 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
Dr. Stacey Berardino

Dr. Stacey Berardino

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 2.5 mi away • Laguna Hills, CA


“My assessment and therapeutic style is relaxed, comfortable, cognitive-behavioral, and problem-solving focused in nature.”
Aetna + 10 others
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Jan Covyeau

Jan Covyeau

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 3.9 mi away • Irvine, CA


“My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and focused on helping you better understand yourself and your relationships.”
Aetna + 5 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Richard Liu

Richard Liu

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 3.9 mi away • San Francisco, CA


“I am deeply committed to offering care that is rooted in compassion, empathy, and extensive knowledge of mental health.”
Aetna + 8 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss
Direct, Open-minded, Participatory
Dr. Julie DeVito

Dr. Julie DeVito

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 4.7 mi away • Mission Viejo, CA


“My patients can expect a relaxed, safe space, an environment of acceptance and non-judgement, empathy, positive regard and respect, and a collaborative approach to treatment.”
Aetna + 4 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Andrew Hey

Andrew Hey

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 5.6 mi away • Mission Viejo, CA


“In addition to my work as a therapist, I also currently work as a professional actor, which gives me a unique understanding of performance, communication, and authenticity.”
Aetna + 4 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Creative, Empowering, Humorous
Trinh Nguyen

Trinh Nguyen

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 3.9 mi away • Irvine, CA


“Compassion, authenticity, and humor are the foundation of my practice as I have found them to ease the pain in the process of healing.”
Accepts Aetna insurance
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss, Panic disorders
Empowering, Holistic, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Brandon Owens

Brandon Owens

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 2.9 mi away • Laguna Hills, CA


“Since becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I've seen how prioritizing mental health can bring more joy, balance, and resilience into everyday life.”
Aetna + 10 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Challenging, Creative

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michalina Zell

Michalina Zell

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 5.7 mi away • Mission Viejo, CA


“I am a warm and encouraging "person-centered" therapist and believe that a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and positive regard is essential to our work together.”
Aetna + 9 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, Maternal mental health
Open-minded, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Denyse Breeden

Denyse Breeden

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 3.9 mi away • Laguna Hills, CA


“I provide a compassionate, tailored approach using Somatic Experiencing, Inner Child healing, and/or hypnotherapy.”
Aetna + 2 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Dr. Barek Sharif

Dr. Barek Sharif

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 2.1 mi away • Mission Viejo, CA


“My approach as a therapist is rooted in my own humanity - I show up as a real person in the room with you.”
Aetna + 9 others
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Participatory, Warm
Fabrice Paracuellos

Fabrice Paracuellos

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 9.1 mi away • Laguna Beach, CA


“I integrate approaches that bring short-term relief and long-term benefits with quality of life, vibrancy, relationships, meaning, and self-appreciation.”
Aetna + 10 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Men's issues, Relationship issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Dr. Yemmy Taylor

Dr. Yemmy Taylor

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 9.1 mi away • 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
Manuel Cruz

Manuel Cruz

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 9.6 mi away • 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
Julie Chu

Julie Chu

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 8.6 mi away • Tustin, CA


“Julie brings extensive experience from both inpatient psychiatric and inpatient chemical dependency settings, allowing her to effectively support individuals with primary mental health concerns as well as complex dual-diagnosis presentations.”
Aetna + 8 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Tania Brunner

Tania Brunner

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • 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
Dr. Cathy Evangelatos

Dr. Cathy Evangelatos

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • Irvine, CA


I’m Dr. Cathy Evangelatos, a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I’m glad you’re here and I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward healing and growth. You have the option to choose a secular or faith-integrated approach for therapy.

Education:

· I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California with a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology. I also hold a master’s degree in Theology and offer optional Christian-integrated therapy for clients who wish to explore the intersection of mental health and their spiritual identity.

· With more than a decade of experience (pre and post doctoral), I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside people through life’s most difficult and meaningful challenges.

Specialized Training-Integrative Faith-Based Approach

With a master’s degree in Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary and specialized training in the integration of Christian faith and psychology including my clinical research project on integrating theology and psychology into a faith -based practice. This training equips me to offer thoughtful, well-informed support for clients who wish to explore the intersection of mental health and their faith. This is only provided at your request, and only when it aligns with what you are seeking.

Aetna + 7 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Josiah Peratoner

Josiah Peratoner

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • 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
Marissa Melhuse

Marissa Melhuse

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • San Juan Capistrano, CA


“My goal is to meet you where you are, with practical tools, fresh perspective, and steady, compassionate support.”
Aetna + 10 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kristina Smith

Kristina Smith

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • San Juan Capistrano, CA


“Through my own struggles with postpartum depression and anxiety, I became a passionate advocate for maternal wellness...”
Accepts Aetna insurance
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Humorous, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lori Vasquez

Lori Vasquez

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • 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
Ning Cornwell

Ning Cornwell

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • 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
Van Nguyen

Van Nguyen

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • 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
Ariane Djeussoung

Ariane Djeussoung

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • 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
Darlene Violas

Darlene Violas

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 9.4 mi away • Laguna Beach, CA


“I will not only challenge you to grow, but also provide unwavering support as you navigate your personal path towards healing and self-discovery.”
Aetna + 12 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Anne Marie Ruta Buchanan

Anne Marie Ruta Buchanan

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 11 mi away • Tustin, CA


“For anxiety, I provide psychoeducation on the brain and body's response to threat, and look for ways my clients behaviorally shift so that they can decrease the intensity and frequency of symptoms that get in the way of them living their ideal lives.”
Aetna + 3 others
Anxiety, Grief or loss, OCD, Panic disorders, Stress management
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Aidin Tajbakhsh

Dr. Aidin Tajbakhsh

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • 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
Hannah Williams

Hannah Williams

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • Irvine, CA


Welcome! Before becoming a psychotherapist, I spent many years in the law and advocacy field. My previous training and experience helps me relate well with many different backgrounds with a greater understanding and appreciation for the diverse issues and concerns encountered by others. I love working with adults of all ages and couples in their journey towards self-discovery, personal growth, greater connection and fulfillment.

Aetna + 10 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michelle Fuller

Michelle Fuller

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • 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
Tongqing Zhu

Tongqing Zhu

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • 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
Nicole Lawrence Testa

Nicole Lawrence Testa

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • San Juan Capistrano, CA


“I connect with clients by listening and exploring without judgement. Clients have told me they appreciate my compassion...”
Aetna + 9 others
Family issues, Grief or loss, Infertility, Men's issues, Relationship issues
Direct, Open-minded, 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.