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Find an Aetna therapist in Santa Cruz, CA

Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Santa Cruz, CA covered by Aetna

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People with insurance pay as low as $0 per session through Headway

Top Aetna-covered therapists and psychiatrists in Santa Cruz, CA

Santa Cruz residents can access therapy and medication support through Headway's Aetna network. Choose from thousands of providers, schedule sessions as soon as tomorrow, and enjoy flexible virtual or in-person appointments. Average savings reach 75% on sessions with insurance coverage.

Danika Mills

Danika Mills

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I like to keep things approachable and collaborative... find strategies that actually fit your life.”
Aetna + 8 others
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, PTSD, Sleep disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Chinenye Udoh

Chinenye Udoh

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in healthcare. I work with adolescents, teenagers, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, mood disorders, life transitions, and emotional burnout.

My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and judgment-free environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. I understand that mental health is deeply connected to daily life, relationships, culture, and personal experiences, and I take a compassionate, whole-person approach to care.

Aetna + 7 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Caroline Thomas

Caroline Thomas

Therapist

Virtual • California


Welcome to my Therapy practice. Here we will work together to explore where you currently are emotionally, and work to get you to where you would like to be.

I believe that everyone needs to fell heard and understood. You and I are a team to prioritize your mental health and well-being.

I take a Psychodynamic approach to understanding your past. This is your therapy session and I welcome any and all feedback.

I look forward to working with you.

Aetna + 3 others
Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Family issues, Grief or loss
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Miaisha James

Miaisha James

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello! My name is Miaisha. Are you looking for a space where you can keep it real and get support? Then you are at the right place because I believe that everyone deserves a space where they can feel heard, understood, and supported. I am a compassionate and culturally sensitive Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I use multiple treatment approaches when working with clients, one of which is client-centered, this allows you to be the driver of your journey, while I am riding in the passenger seat. Whether you're adjusting to new life roles or seeking deeper self-understanding, I’m here to support you. You deserve a therapist who sees and affirms you, helping you embrace change with confidence and resilience. Let’s work together to create meaningful, lasting change. I invite you to reach out and take the first step and know that you are not alone. Together, we’ll create a path forward that honors your unique journey.

Aetna + 4 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Nimota Aleje

Nimota Aleje

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“With over 10 years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I am committed to delivering personalized, evidence-based treatment plans that foster optimal mental health and wellness.”
Aetna + 2 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Creative, Open-minded, Warm
Luis Contreras

Luis Contreras

Therapist

Virtual • San Diego, CA


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 25 years of experience providing mental health services in behavioral health, crisis intervention, community mental health, and medical settings. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, family conflict, and other emotional challenges.

My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and trauma-informed. I believe healing happens when clients feel safe, understood, and empowered. I work alongside clients to build on their strengths, develop practical coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment.

Throughout my career, I have provided therapy and clinical support in outpatient, community-based, hospital, college mental health, and correctional settings. In my private practice, I provide bilingual psychotherapy to individuals and families experiencing trauma, stress, relationship challenges, parenting concerns, and behavioral health issues. I also have extensive experience supporting foster, adoptive, and biological families caring for children impacted by trauma and attachment-related difficulties.

My professional background includes crisis stabilization, risk assessment, treatment planning, wraparound services, and multidisciplinary care coordination for youth and families with complex needs. I am also a part-time lecturer in the School of Social Work at San Diego State University, where I teach and mentor future social workers.

I am passionate about culturally responsive care, equity in mental health services, and helping clients feel empowered throughout their healing journey. I provide services in both English and Spanish and welcome clients from all backgrounds.

Aetna + 7 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Dr. Ekta Kumar

Dr. Ekta Kumar

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I work with adults and couples, especially professionals, students, and creatives in high-pressure environments — who want more than just coping skills.”
Accepts Aetna insurance
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Theresa Jones

Theresa Jones

Therapist

Virtual • California


I specialize in supporting adolescents, adults, and families navigating trauma, systemic stress, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. With 11 years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I’ve worked across diverse communities, including Black, Native American, Veteran, and criminal justice-involved populations. Clients often describe me as grounded, direct, and compassionate, and I bring deep respect for each person’s lived experience into the work we do together.

Aetna + 5 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Nene Umunnakwe

Nene Umunnakwe

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I find fulfillment in offering guidance to help people gain clarity in lives. My expertise lies in addressing ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, & schizophrenia.”
Aetna + 7 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Participatory
Cesar Mardones

Cesar Mardones

Therapist

Virtual • Sacramento, CA


“I believe in an approach that people are the experts in their own lives, and I am here to help guide them from a professional standpoint.”
Aetna + 8 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Challenging, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Dr. Angel Nwochie

Dr. Angel Nwochie

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I utilize tools such as health education, psychoeducation, psychotherapy to help you along the journey of your mental health.”
Aetna + 3 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Jill Lawler

Jill Lawler

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to offer a warm, welcoming space where clients feel heard, respected, and supported as they move toward healing, growth, and a more balanced life.”
Aetna + 8 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, Relationship issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Suzan Nedjati

Suzan Nedjati

Therapist

Virtual • California


As a Licensed Psychotherapist with over 17 years of clinical experience, I have dedicated my career to helping children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges and discover their strengths. In addition to my private practice, my work in a hospital Emergency Department has provided me with valuable experience supporting individuals and families during some of their most difficult and vulnerable moments.

Aetna + 1 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jaazar Shalabi

Jaazar Shalabi

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, my name is Jaazar (Jay) Shalabi and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). Are you struggling with past traumatic experiences, cycles of depression and/or anxiety? Maybe you are struggling with relationship issues, confidence, low self esteem. Perhaps you are a veteran struggling to deal with integrating back to civi life or take back control of your life once again prior to service.

As a child of trauma and combat veteran, I have lived through life with just enough insight through these lived experiences to help me discover that Insight=Power, and Power=Change; What do you change? well, thats the question only you have the answer to and hopefully I can support you in finding what that is.

Aetna + 5 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Challenging, Empowering, Humorous
Dr. Nancy Abellera Vazquez

Dr. Nancy Abellera Vazquez

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“It is my sincere desire to walk side by side my clients on their journey toward healing, growth and change.”
Aetna + 4 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, PTSD, Stress management
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Janet Carrasco

Janet Carrasco

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to help you process experiences from your past, manage present challenges, recognize your strengths, and move toward a healthier and more fulfilling future.”
Aetna + 6 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
James Noftle

James Noftle

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have been a psychotherapist for almost 15 years seeing clients in a variety of settings including out patient hospital/group setting, clinical settings, and private practice. I am passionate about my work as a psychotherapist. Both clients and colleagues have labeled me with a "tough love approach" while simultaneously challenging my clients to reach their potential. While hiring, training and supervising new therapist, I would often remind them, "Clients don't care what you teach them, until they know that you care about them".

Aetna + 3 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Challenging, Empowering
Jessica Wallace

Jessica Wallace

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to support and guide you throughout your healing journey.”
Aetna + 9 others
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Panic disorders, PTSD
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
David Diaz

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.”
Aetna + 10 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Alexiis Figueroa

Alexiis Figueroa

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation for growth and healing, and I strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space for clients.”
Aetna + 6 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Roxy Mandisen

Roxy Mandisen

Therapist

Virtual • California


Welcome. I'm Roxy, dedicated to helping you find what you are looking for in therapy. My goal is to offer a safe, compassionate space where you can heal and grow.

Aetna + 8 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Infertility
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Amanda Pifer

Amanda Pifer

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is compassionate, curious, collaborative, and authentic, with a healthy appreciation for humor.”
Aetna + 4 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, End of life care
Challenging, Humorous, Inquisitive
Zora Speert Dieterich

Zora Speert Dieterich

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Los Angeles, CA


“I am an interactive therapist whose practice involves a mutual cooperative approach to empower self-learning.”
Aetna + 11 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Carla Francis

Carla Francis

Therapist

Virtual • California


I received my master's degree from the University of Southern California in Social Work with a concentration in Mental Health.

I began my career serving diverse communities across Los Angeles County, working in community mental health centers, at the Department of Mental Health, and in specialized treatment programs.

Through these roles, I gained extensive experience in trauma recovery, substance use treatment, crisis intervention, and supporting individuals facing life’s most complex challenges.

With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I specialize in providing individual therapy for adults (18+).

Aetna + 4 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, Men's issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Brandy Malloy

Brandy Malloy

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My therapy style is warm, collaborative, and goal-oriented. I focus on helping clients build insight, develop coping tools, and shift unhelpful patterns through evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness.”
Aetna + 7 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Joann Ezeibe

Joann Ezeibe

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a warm, non-judgmental space where you feel genuinely heard and understood, and where we can talk openly about what you're going through without shame or stigma.”
Aetna + 5 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, OCD
Affirming, Direct, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ruth Lee

Ruth Lee

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My role isn't to tell you who to be, but to partner with you as you rediscover the mastery you already hold over your inner feelings.”
Aetna + 6 others
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Relationship issues, Stress management, Women's issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Ednita Ramirez

Ednita Ramirez

Therapist

Virtual • Fullerton, CA


Hi, I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I offer therapy for adults and teens who are looking for support with life’s challenges—whether it’s stress, transitions, relationships, or just feeling stuck. I’m bilingual in Spanish and have a deep, personal understanding of the Latinx experience, which helps me connect with clients in a meaningful and culturally sensitive way.

I’m trained in EMDR, trauma-informed care, DBT, CBT, and more, and have worked in the mental health field for over 10 years. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family—including my toddler and teenager—going on walks, doing yoga, and enjoying a good matcha.

Aetna + 6 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Viktoria Penchuk

Viktoria Penchuk

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to help them better understand these responses, reduce emotional distress, and regain a greater sense of confidence and control in their lives.”
Aetna + 7 others
Anxiety, Depression, Panic disorders, PTSD, Relationship issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Alejandra Fernandez-Zamora

Alejandra Fernandez-Zamora

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I view therapy as a space where clients can explore their experiences with curiosity and without judgment.”
Aetna + 7 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, Panic disorders
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Yu Tsun Tseng Brown

Yu Tsun Tseng Brown

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe in collaborative healing, where you are the expert of your own story, and I serve as a supportive guide in your transformative process.”
Aetna + 7 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Erika Huguenard

Erika Huguenard

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello, I’m Erika Huguenard, LCSW and I believe that healing begins with feeling seen, understood, and supported exactly where you are. With over 12 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I provide a compassionate and collaborative space for people navigating trauma, loss, life transitions, and the complex emotions that come with being human.

Aetna + 6 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Shelan Campbell

Shelan Campbell

Therapist

Virtual • California


I believe that every individual has the innate capacity for healing.

Hello! I am a dedicated LCSW committed to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with resilience and clarity. My goal is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and empowered to make meaningful changes. My clinical foundation is built on a rigorous academic path focused on understanding human behavior and holistic well-being. I graduated with a BA in Psychology from La Sierra University and later obtained my MSW from Loma Linda University.

Aetna + 7 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, Grief or loss
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Ronald Perales

Ronald Perales

Therapist

Virtual • Laguna Niguel, CA


I'm a humanistic therapist who believes in listening to my client. I have years of experience working in the psychotherapy field as well as life experience. I treat people with kindness, dignity and respect.

Aetna + 13 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Elaine Bobadilla-Fischer

Elaine Bobadilla-Fischer

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with extensive experience in child welfare and supporting individuals through life’s most challenging moments. My focus is working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. My goal is to provide you with the coping skills, practical tools, and supportive guidance needed to navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence, resilience, and emotional well-being while empowering you to create meaningful, lasting change.

Aetna + 6 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Judithann Roberts

Judithann Roberts

Therapist

Virtual • California


Deep listening is a gift that empowers individuals to reflect and change

Aetna + 9 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Creative, Open-minded

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kianna Romero

Kianna Romero

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, I am Kianna. I am a warm and inquisitive Spanish- and English-speaking LCSW. I make sure to incorporate cultural competency when understanding the individual, the family system, and partnerships. I create a welcoming space where clients feel seen, understood, and respected across identities. I approach each session with curiosity and compassion, honoring the cultural stories and lived experiences that shape a person’s healing journey.

Aetna + 7 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Kala Patterson

Kala Patterson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I help clients reclaim their sense of self as they recover from toxic systems, environments and abusive relationships.”
Aetna + 13 others
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Challenging, Empowering, Solution-oriented

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Rosario Sandoval

Rosario Sandoval

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach centers on empowering clients through compassionate, culturally responsive care, with a deep commitment to addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and life transitions.”
Aetna + 8 others
Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Diabetes
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Susan Stokes

Susan Stokes

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach to therapy is client-centered and holistic, drawing on my broad experience in mental health, education, and wellness.”
Aetna + 5 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Diabetes, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, 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.