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Find a therapist in Santa Cruz, CA — covered by insurance

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Top therapists in Santa Cruz, CA accepting new patients

Headway serves Santa Cruz across all neighborhoods, connecting you with 8,968 warm and solution-oriented providers. Get started with a free intake call, find availability as soon as tomorrow, and benefit from insurance coverage that can reduce your session costs significantly.

Claire Neumann

Claire Neumann

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Oakland, CA


I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (NY & CA) with an MSW from NYU and a BA in Communications from Northwestern. With 14 years as a professional actor and teaching artist, I incorporate creativity into my eclectic therapeutic approach, which includes CBT, mindfulness, expressive arts, and psychodynamics. I specialize in supporting clients with anxiety, depression, identity exploration, relational challenges, and personal growth.

Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Meghan Fuller

Dr. Meghan Fuller

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Oakland, CA


“My work is grounded in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic approaches, with careful attention to development, attachment, trauma, and the complexity of each individual's inner life.”
Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Dr. Cristina LaFarre

Dr. Cristina LaFarre

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • San Francisco, CA


“Seeking help for your mental health is a sign of strength, and I am proud of people who advocate for their well-being.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Clementine Brown

Clementine Brown

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Francisco, CA


“I use a Liberation Psychology approach which means we often explore how we have internalized society's oppressive systems and how we can get you as free as possible from internalized and external forms of oppression.”
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michelle Jensen

Michelle Jensen

Therapist

Virtual • Hughson, CA


“I use CBT, Person Centered, Support therapy, solutions focused therapy, EMDR, mindfulness and meditation and talk therapy as my main therapy modalities.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Ezenwanyi Ogbuji

Ezenwanyi Ogbuji

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, or life's emotional challenges, please know you don’t have to carry this weight alone. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to helping you reclaim your life. My practice is built on a foundation of deep empathy and genuine care. I treat you as a whole person, not just a set of symptoms. Together, we will navigate your challenges using evidence-based treatments tailored to your unique story and goals. Your mental health journey deserves a safe space, and I am here to provide exactly that as we work toward your healing.

Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, OCD
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Andrea Faraday

Andrea Faraday

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I support clients who want a caring and steady space where they can explore their inner world with honesty and compassion.”
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Family issues
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Vicki Barker

Vicki Barker

Therapist

Virtual • Rocklin, CA


“With personal experience with dysfunctional family dynamics, ADHD, depression, anxiety and grief I have much knowledge to share.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Empowering
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
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.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Jessica Arneson

Dr. Jessica Arneson

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m Dr. Jessica. Thank you for checking out my profile. Finding the right therapist can be a bit of a process, and I appreciate you considering my services. I specialize in working with high-achievers, highly-sensitive/empath people, influences and content creators who are balancing career, relationships, and personal wellbeing. Many of my clients come to me exhausted from burnout or carrying deep relationship wounds—whether from breakups, divorce, or ongoing relationship struggles. These experiences can leave you questioning your self-worth and identity.

Anxiety, Grief or loss, Identity issues, PTSD, Relationship issues
Direct, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Sylvia Botros

Sylvia Botros

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe healing happens through a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, compassion, and collaboration.”
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues, PTSD
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Robert Black

Robert Black

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is deeply empathic and collaborative — I believe real progress starts with real trust, so I focus on building a warm, non-judgmental relationship from our very first session.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Participatory, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Charla Afoa

Charla Afoa

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi! I'm Dr. Charla and I am a licensed therapist (est. 2014) specializing in identity and authentic self-expression. Holding a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology, I integrate clinical expertise with holistic certifications in EMDR and Hypnotherapy. My eclectic approach meets clients at the intersection of traditional psychology and alternative healing.

Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, PTSD, Relationship issues
Challenging, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jaclyn Staubach

Jaclyn Staubach

Therapist

Virtual • Brea, CA


“I've also supported a loved one through cancer treatment, giving me personal insight into the challenges caregivers often face.”
Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Inquisitive, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kizzy Myisha Parker

Kizzy Myisha Parker

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach is thoughtful, structured, and collaborative—focused on helping you regain clarity, stability, and confidence in daily life.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Marc Sherman

Marc Sherman

Therapist

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“I offer a collaborative approach to therapy where client and therapist work together to find solutions and alternatives to seeing life through a different lens and perspective.”
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Men's issues, Relationship issues
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lisa Minster

Lisa Minster

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that everyone's journey is unique, and by focusing on your strengths, I can help you make meaningful changes that truly make a difference.”
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Stress management, Trauma
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mirlande Amazan

Mirlande Amazan

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to engage each client in a warm, non-judgmental environment to allow one to share authentically, with an expected outcome of growth and healing.”
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Seth Fenton

Seth Fenton

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I offer both therapy and practical, skills-based support. Using approaches like CBT, DBT, and crisis intervention...”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders
Creative, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Chelsea Reid

Chelsea Reid

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe deeply in the healing that becomes possible when someone feels truly safe, seen, and supported.”
Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Grief or loss, OCD
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Hua Zhong

Hua Zhong

Therapist

Virtual • San Jose, CA


“As a bilingual therapist offering services in both English and Mandarin Chinese, I am passionate about making therapy accessible and culturally responsive for diverse communities.”
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Holistic, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kathryn Lagorio

Kathryn Lagorio

Therapist

Virtual • California


Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, ADHD, depression, or the weight of past trauma? I work with adults who want to feel more grounded, understood, and confident in navigating their lives. Together, we can make space for what you’ve been carrying, better understand what may be holding you back, and reconnect with your strengths. I offer a warm, affirming, and collaborative space where your story matters and change can happen at a pace that feels right for you.

ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Meghan Shamburger

Meghan Shamburger

Therapist

Virtual • Compton, CA


“I believe that trauma stops us from truly walking in all that we were meant to be, leading us to tip toe through life unsure of ourselves and our attachments.”
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues, Maternal mental health
Challenging, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Shahin Carrigan

Dr. Shahin Carrigan

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach to therapy is problem-solving and solution-focused. Applying and training you on techniques and ways that would help you to get "unstuck" and be able to resolve your problems of daily living and thrive in your school, work, and...”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 15 insurance carriers
Edith Mercado-Jimenez

Edith Mercado-Jimenez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where you feel genuinely heard and understood, right from the very first conversation.”
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Cara Niemeier

Dr. Cara Niemeier

Psychiatrist

Virtual • California


“She uses an evidence-based, holistic approach, with the goal of using the lowest effective doses of sustainable medications when needed.”
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Creative, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Oluchi Iwuoha

Oluchi Iwuoha

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Ontario, CA


“My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and personalized. I believe in working closely with my clients to understand their goals and create treatment plans that support lasting emotional wellness.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Creative, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Theresa Rodriguez

Theresa Rodriguez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My therapeutic approach is marked by compassion and directness, creating a non-judgmental and supportive environment that embraces individuals as they are.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 19 insurance carriers
Lorraine Watkins

Lorraine Watkins

Therapist

Virtual • California


Stuck? In pain? Contemplating a life change, or just had one thrust upon you? Let's explore your options and make things easier.

I have 20+ years of experience helping demoralized adults back to high functionality. I specialize in helping develop motivational skills in those are dealing with depression, anxiety and adjustment issues (including relational and gender identity issues).

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Vanessa Armas

Dr. Vanessa Armas

Therapist

Virtual • Irvine, CA


“I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, emphasizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.”
Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Stress management, Women's issues
Empowering, Holistic, Inquisitive
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Melanie Reyes

Melanie Reyes

Therapist

Virtual • San Francisco, CA


Perhaps you are visiting today to obtain answers to confusion, peace in the torment, clarity from the chaos, healing from the pain. Maybe you just want someone to understand your pain. You might be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or hopeless. Whatever your reasoning may be, I am dedicated to help you achieve hope and healing. Thank you for taking the first step to work toward your personal healing journey.

Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Felicia Stansbury

Felicia Stansbury

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe you are the expert in your own life. My role is to walk alongside you as we explore challenges, build insight, and identify the tools and perspectives that support the changes you want to make.”
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Holistic, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

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.

Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Substance use / addiction
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michelle Broehm

Michelle Broehm

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy should feel real, not clinical. If you don't mind a bit of honesty and the occasional laugh, I'd love to connect.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, PTSD
Inquisitive, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Noelle Sladon

Noelle Sladon

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is warm, direct, and collaborative. I ask good questions, I listen more than I talk, and I help you build concrete skills between sessions — not just insight in the room.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Alyssa Glorioso

Alyssa Glorioso

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am eclectic but will typically use a blend of psychodynamic, attachment, and cognitive behavioral therapy.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Tate Tyler

Tate Tyler

Therapist

Virtual • California


Welcome and congratulations on beginning your therapy journey! I'm here to support you as you take steps toward your goals and develop into your best possible self. I hope to create a safe space for you to find relief, healing, and develop meaningful insight to reach your fullest potential.

Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues, LGBTQIA+
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Stephanie Torres

Stephanie Torres

Therapist

Virtual • Los Alamitos, CA


“Healing is more than managing symptoms, it's about restoring balance between your mind, body, and soul.”
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jessica Taylor

Jessica Taylor

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am committed to creating a supportive, collaborative, and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment where clients feel heard and empowered.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Arch Jungers

Arch Jungers

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hello, I'm Arch Jungers, PMHNP-BC, and I came to psychiatric care more than seven years as a psychiatric charge RN, leading care teams and sitting with patients in their most difficult moments, before becoming a Nurse Practitioner. I truly believe that together, we can solve any mental health problem. When I'm not here, I'm loving on my dogs, playing tennis, or bowling in my weekly league. I am looking forward to meeting you and seeing how I can be of service to you.

ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Creative, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
41 - 80 of

About our therapists serving Santa Cruz, CA

Number of therapists serving Santa Cruz, CA
There are over 8,990 therapists in Santa Cruz, CA accepting new patients.
8,990+
Average years in practice
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10 years
Top specialties offered
Watercolor illustration of specialties
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 92%Depression
  • 88%Stress management
  • 82%Relationship issues
  • 79%Trauma
Insurances accepted
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  • 98%Aetna
  • 79%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 77%Cigna
  • 75%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 66%Blue Shield of California
Languages spoken
Watercolor illustration of languages
  • 97%English
  • 17%Spanish
  • 2%Farsi
  • 1%Mandarin
  • 1%Hindi
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 90%Online only
  • 10%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 79%Woman
  • 20%Man
  • 1%Non-binary
License types
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  • 48%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 31%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 7%Clinical Psychologist
  • 7%Nurse Practitioner
  • 7%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 37%Family therapy
  • 23%Couples therapy
  • 15%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

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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 Santa Cruz

Searching for therapists in Santa Cruz starts with finding someone whose experience matches what you want support with. Therapists may focus on concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, grief, ADHD, or life transitions. As you compare options, look for training and specialties that fit your needs, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, couples counseling, family therapy, or work with a licensed marriage and family therapist. A therapist’s bio can help you understand their approach, communication style, and what sessions may look like.

In a smaller city like Santa Cruz, local in-person therapy options may be more limited by office location, commute, and appointment times. Virtual therapy can expand your choices while still connecting you with a therapist licensed in California. Some people prefer meeting in a physical office, while others choose virtual sessions for scheduling flexibility. To narrow your search, review whether a therapist is accepting new patients, has appointment times that fit your calendar, offers a free phone consultation, and works with the type of support you’re seeking, including couples counseling, marriage counseling, or family therapy.

Therapy in Santa Cruz can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and see your estimated cost before you book. Headway helps you compare therapists who are accepting new patients, review detailed profiles, check insurance coverage, and book directly when you’re ready. This makes it easier to find a Santa Cruz therapist who matches your needs, accepts your plan, and offers care in a format that works for you.

If you're experiencing or worried about violence, threats, or coercion in your relationship, couples therapy isn't usually the right starting point — individual support is safer. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233, or text START to 88788\) can help you think through next steps.

If anyone in your family is experiencing or worried about abuse, threats, or coercion, joint family or couples therapy usually isn't the right starting point — individual support is safer. The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline (1-800-422-4453) and National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233, or text START to 88788\) can help you think through next steps.

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