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Find an Aetna therapist in Santa Monica, CA

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

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

Find Aetna-covered mental health support in Santa Monica with Headway. Access 8,715 licensed providers for talk therapy and medication management, with copays around $30. Sessions are available in-person or virtually, often starting within days.

Shelby Ammann

Shelby Ammann

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Newport Beach, CA


“I work with teens and adults navigating complex trauma, anxiety, sleep concerns, and depression—often when symptoms feel persistent despite effort or prior therapy.”
Aetna + 3 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Panic disorders, PTSD
Direct, Humorous, Warm
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.

Aetna + 3 others
Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Substance use / addiction
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Clara D'Agostino

Clara D'Agostino

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Newport Beach, CA


Licensed Clinical Social Worker, specialized in mental health and women's issues. I use Expressive Arts and EMDR strategies to address trauma and anxiety. I am directive and supportive.

Aetna + 2 others
Anxiety, Family issues, Grief or loss, PTSD, Relationship issues
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Ning Cornwell

Ning Cornwell

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 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
Dr. Tracy Covington

Dr. Tracy Covington

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Oxnard, CA


I’m a clinical psychologist (doctor) in Ventura county, California, with over 25 years of experience and a practice designed to feel calm, human, and welcoming. Many of the patients I work with come to therapy feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, disconnected, anxious, depressed, or stuck. They may be navigating trauma, grief, relationship pain, major life transitions, or the quiet weight of having tried to manage too much for too long. My work is for people who are ready for something deeper than just getting through the day. My approach is warm, grounded, and deeply human, focused on real life, not just symptoms.

Aetna + 3 others
Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care, Family issues
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Rob Rutkowski

Rob Rutkowski

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Irvine, CA


“Men carry a lot quietly, including the pressure to keep performing while simultaneously not having a space to be vulnerable.”
Accepts Aetna insurance
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Participatory

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Josiah Peratoner

Josiah Peratoner

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 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
Dr. Cathy Evangelatos

Dr. Cathy Evangelatos

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 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
Nancy Rocco

Nancy Rocco

Therapist

In-person • Yorba Linda, CA


“Because of my background in medicine, psychology and social work, I'm able to bring a unique diversity of observations and assessments to my clients.”
Aetna + 5 others
Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care, Family issues
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Suha Albadawi

Suha Albadawi

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Claremont, CA


“My focus is helping my clients feel better about themselves and work through their symptoms that brought them to therapy.”
Accepts Aetna insurance
Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Creative, Empowering, Holistic
Marcela De La Cruz

Marcela De La Cruz

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Ventura, CA


“I show up authentically in the therapy room — bubbly, humorous, grounded, and compassionate — while also holding space for the sensitive and serious parts of your healing when needed.”
Aetna + 2 others
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues, PTSD
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Randall Cox

Randall Cox

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 28 mi away • Long Beach, CA


“I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and supported while working together to identify strengths, build effective coping strategies, and foster meaningful, lasting change.”
Aetna + 3 others
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss, Men's issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Dr. Reri Uku

Dr. Reri Uku

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Montclair, CA


I am a board certified, doctoral prepared PMHNP. I completed my post graduate at National University in Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I earned my DNP from Azusa Pacific University and graduated from CSUSB MSN program. I have been a faculty at CSUSB since 2014. Extensively trained and a certified Trauma-Informed specialist. I diagnose and treat mental disorders including medication-assisted treatment along with counseling for chemical dependency and substance use disorders.

Aetna + 8 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Ese Ogbetuo

Ese Ogbetuo

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Montclair, CA


“I use a holistic approach in managing various disorders enabling individuals to maintain a healthy lifestyle...”
Aetna + 10 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Energetic, Solution-oriented, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Gerrald Angeles

Gerrald Angeles

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Montclair, CA


Hello, I'm Gerrald Angeles, a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I provide psychiatric medication management for adults throughout California. I’m here to help you feel heard, understood, and supported in your mental health care. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or navigating mental health challenges alongside chronic conditions, I’m here to help you find balance and feel your best.

Aetna + 9 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Gloria Sudeta

Gloria Sudeta

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Ontario, CA


“I am dual board-certified family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.”
Aetna + 10 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Emily Ratliff

Emily Ratliff

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Upland, CA


“My goal is to create a safe, grounded space where you feel comfortable exploring vulnerable and challenging parts of your life without fear of judgment.”
Aetna + 5 others
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
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.”
Aetna + 3 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Nazanin Karandish

Dr. Nazanin Karandish

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 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
Marcela Castellanos

Marcela Castellanos

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 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
Theresa Russo

Theresa Russo

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 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
Steven Aird

Steven Aird

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 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
Darlene Violas

Darlene Violas

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 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
Ijeoma Mbadugha

Ijeoma Mbadugha

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Rancho Cucamonga, CA


“She is passionate about creating a supportive, judgment-free environment where every patient feels heard, respected, and empowered throughout their mental health journey.”
Aetna + 12 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Janet Gichau

Janet Gichau

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Corona, CA


“My open-minded strategic approach and accepting individualism help me let the patient guide in discussing their personal health struggles.”
Aetna + 8 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Kristine Lomas

Kristine Lomas

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 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
Mark Awanyai

Mark Awanyai

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 9.6 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
Kristina Smith

Kristina Smith

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 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
Marissa Melhuse

Marissa Melhuse

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 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
Maricela Gomez

Maricela Gomez

Therapist

Virtual • California


Therapy is a journey of personal growth and healing. It takes courage and can be challenging, but you don’t have to embark alone. My hope is that, as your therapist, I can be the holder of hope and a source of support. After obtaining my Master's in Counseling degree in 2015, I have had a wide range of experience. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults and families as they work through a wide range of issues including traumatic experiences, grief, depression, and anxiety.

Aetna + 8 others
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Identity issues, PTSD
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Keziyah Mack

Keziyah Mack

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your goals and move toward the life you want.”
Aetna + 6 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Inquisitive, Participatory, Warm
Renee Demirdjian

Renee Demirdjian

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach to therapy is an integrative blend of modalities tailored to each individual, drawing from attachment-based therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Jungian...”
Aetna + 6 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Hannah Mira

Hannah Mira

Therapist

Virtual • San Clemente, CA


“I believe that the genuine compassion, co-regulation and safety that can be found in a therapist and client relationship is one of the most powerful and supportive healing spaces.”
Aetna + 6 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Family issues, Identity issues, LGBTQIA+
Direct, Humorous, Inquisitive
Denisa Hoxha

Denisa Hoxha

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am passionate about instilling hope in my clients, I am compassionate and empathetic, and I am goal oriented...”
Aetna + 10 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Shrein Bahrami

Shrein Bahrami

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have extensive training and over ten years of clinical treatment experience in the area of eating disorders including Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating and disordered eating.”
Aetna + 1 others
Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, Identity issues, Relationship issues
Empowering, Holistic, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mary Carter

Mary Carter

Therapist

Virtual • West Covina, CA


I bring 14 + years of experience providing thrrapy in both private and clinical settings. My work is grounded in a client centered strengths-based approach, rooted in unconditional, positive regard and a commitment to providing a safe, non-judgmental space where client can openly share their stories.

I identify as neurodivergent and have personally and professionally navigated ADHD. This experience allows me to bring both clinical knowledge lived understanding to my work, helping clients recognize their strengths, develop effective strategies, and move toward meaningful growth and stability.

Aetna + 8 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Dr. Lili Nguyen

Dr. Lili Nguyen

Psychologist

Virtual • California


Hi, I am Dr. Lili and I have over 11 years of professional experience working with patients from 2 years old up to 102 years old. I specialize in treating patients facing mood disorders, adjustment difficulties, depression, anxiety, stress management, relationship issues, identity crisis, life transitions, grief, chronic medical conditions and/ or end-of-life care.

I have had the pleasure of witnessing the resilience and strengths of those who have overcome so much in their lives and build themselves up from the hardest of times.

If you're feeling lost, defeated, confused, you have come to the right place.

Aetna + 6 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Matthew Miller

Matthew Miller

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Santa Barbara, CA


“My style is warm, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that good psychiatric care works best when people feel comfortable asking questions and fully understand their options.”
Aetna + 9 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Susan Hea Jin Ko

Susan Hea Jin Ko

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm warm and supportive, but I'm also an active therapist. I'll listen and give you space to process, but I won't just sit back and leave you wondering what to do with everything you've shared.”
Aetna + 3 others
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Infertility, Maternal mental health, Stress management
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Bryan Hamilton

Bryan Hamilton

Therapist

Virtual • California


Have you been overwhelmed with trying to navigate through the ways you show up in your relationships with others, making you question your own self-identity? The goal is to help you navigate through these feelings/emotions with self-curiosity and compassion. I want to help hold space for my clients to explore these new tools through self-discovery.

Aetna + 7 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Humorous, 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.