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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.

Vickie Medina

Vickie Medina

Therapist

Virtual • Ventura, CA


“I believe therapy should feel safe, collaborative, and empowering. Supporting emotional healing and identity development is deeply meaningful to me.”
Aetna + 4 others
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
L Agape Tuiletufuga

L Agape Tuiletufuga

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe the therapeutic alliance between the client(s) and the therapist is central to generative and effective work.”
Aetna + 5 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Creative, Direct, Humorous
Georgiana Anugom

Georgiana Anugom

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hello, and welcome! My name is Dr. Georgiana Anugom, DNP, PMHNP-BC. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over six years of experience providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to adolescents and adults.

I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree and have extensive experience treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and borderline personality disorder (BPD). I believe in treating each individual with dignity, respect, and empathy. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients from all backgrounds feel heard, understood, and supported throughout their mental health journey.

I am passionate about helping individuals achieve emotional wellness, improve their quality of life, and develop the tools needed to thrive in their personal and professional lives.

Aetna + 3 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Carson Cozad

Carson Cozad

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I offer an affirming role in my client's lives highlighting each individual's areas of resilience and strength.”
Aetna + 5 others
Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Affirming, Empowering, Humorous
Lisa Lopez Barajas

Lisa Lopez Barajas

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have a commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for my clients. I bring a deep understanding of cultural dynamics and a dedication to empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds.”
Aetna + 8 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Inquisitive, Open-minded

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Susana Castellanos

Dr. Susana Castellanos

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“Drawing from her extensive experience across diverse settings, Dr. Castellanos provides compassionate, evidence-based psychological services tailored to the unique needs of each individual she serves.”
Aetna + 7 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Challenging, Empowering

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Marielena Gonzalez

Marielena Gonzalez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I assist my clients in identifying triggers/uncomfortable emotion to help them build their toolbox of coping skills.”
Aetna + 5 others
Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Marleni Tavarez

Marleni Tavarez

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Roseville, CA


“Supporting you in working on the anxiety, depression, life changes, trauma and relational components with yourself/others to help you move beyond stuck.”
Accepts Aetna insurance
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Lindsay Thompson

Lindsay Thompson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is warm, collaborative, and integrative. I strive to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and supported as we work toward meaningful, lasting change.”
Aetna + 4 others
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Christopher Bishay

Christopher Bishay

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that every person's story is unique, and I approach therapy with curiosity and compassion.”
Aetna + 6 others
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Men's issues, Panic disorders
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Kristie Bell

Kristie Bell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is collaborative, compassionate, and holistic, and I strive to create a space where clients feel genuinely seen, supported, and able to explore themselves with honesty, curiosity, and self-compassion.”
Aetna + 3 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Holistic, Humorous, Warm
Lane McConnell

Lane McConnell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe successful therapy works best when there is a positive empathetic working relationship between the client & therapist.”
Aetna + 2 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Rebecca Zaragoza

Rebecca Zaragoza

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that humans have a remarkable ability to grow and heal, and they do this best when they feel seen and heard.”
Aetna + 3 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Participatory, Warm
Dr. Marchita Masters

Dr. Marchita Masters

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I have a warm, comfortable, conversational style. I consider attachment theory, utilize Cognitive Therapy, EMDR and sometimes humor.”
Aetna + 1 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Kasandra Bellamy

Kasandra Bellamy

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I view therapy as a tool for change - and a "good fit" is an important part of the formula for change.”
Aetna + 8 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Creative, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Glory Laizer

Glory Laizer

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


I am experienced, DNP , PMHNP compassionate, non-judgmental person, provide the full range of psychiatric-mental health care across the lifespan and can prescribe Medication and administer psychotherapy.

Aetna + 6 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, Maternal mental health
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Alfred Aguite

Alfred Aguite

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My focus is on supporting individuals in developing the best version of themselves to responsibly face the challenges of life with a sense of courage, honor, and sincerity.”
Aetna + 6 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Challenging, Direct, Empowering

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jose Hernandez

Jose Hernandez

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m a naturally curious, growth-oriented human who believes healing happens when insight meets action. I love helping people zoom out to see the bigger picture of their lives—while also gently zooming in on the patterns, habits, and beliefs that shape their everyday experience.

I’m drawn to the intersection of self-awareness and real-world momentum. Therapy with me is thoughtful, collaborative, and grounded. We can explore the deep stuff—identity, relationships, purpose, transitions—while also building practical tools you can actually use on a Tuesday afternoon when life is lifing.

I value emotional honesty, nervous system regulation, and sustainable growth over quick fixes. I believe you’re not broken—you’re adaptive. Together, we figure out what’s working, what’s outdated, and how to move forward in a way that feels aligned, empowered, and authentically you.

Expect warmth, insight, humor when it fits, and a space where all parts of you are welcome. Healing doesn’t have to be clinical and cold—it can be connected, intentional, and even a little energizing.

Aetna + 6 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Holistic, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lidia Escobar

Lidia Escobar

Therapist

Virtual • California


Feeling overwhelmed, stuck or needing to focus? I enjoy partnering with my clients on their journeys to improved wellness. In our time together, we will celebrate your strengths and develop goals to maximize your wellness, together. While we can't change our past, we can work together to process our story’s strengths and struggles. We can talk through your current challenges and quiet the noise around you. We can explore the barriers that may get in the way of enjoying life to the fullest. We can identify ways to find joy again. I look forward to meeting with you to plan how to achieve your goals.

Aetna + 5 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Caryn Bickel

Caryn Bickel

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a seasoned therapist with over 25 yrs of experience. I exclusively provide Telehealth (video sessions) for both CA and AZ residents!”
Aetna + 8 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, Maternal mental health
Holistic, Participatory, Warm
Gwendolyn Tyson

Gwendolyn Tyson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have been told that I have a gentle, soft demeanor that makes clients feel relaxed and easily engaged during sessions.”
Aetna + 6 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Zointrikca Wyatt

Zointrikca Wyatt

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy doesn't have to feel heavy all the time. While we'll absolutely take your challenges seriously, I also bring a sense of humor, honesty, and realness into the room.”
Aetna + 6 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Humorous
Valerie Handlers

Valerie Handlers

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is loving, compassionate and direct. If you just want someone to listen and not give you suggestions on how to improve your life, then I am not the right therapist for you!”
Aetna + 7 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQIA+, Stress management
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Lisa Ritter

Lisa Ritter

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Temecula, CA


“I draw from research-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), to help you build insight, re-wire negative thinking, and strengthen emotional resilience.”
Aetna + 2 others
Anxiety, End of life care, Family issues, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Creative, Empowering, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Vivian Castaneda

Vivian Castaneda

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is always client-centered and strength-based. Through the client-centered approach, my clients lead the way.”
Aetna + 5 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, OCD, PTSD
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Dr. Julie Cohen

Dr. Julie Cohen

Psychologist

Virtual • California


avigating emotional distress or long-standing conflict can feel like being fractured, but healing often begins with finding a reliable and experienced partner. I am Dr. Julie Cohen, a Clinical Psychologist with over 45 years of experience. I have spent my career helping individuals, couples, and families resolve conflict—whether it’s occurring in the living room or the workplace. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and stress, particularly for those who are ready to dive into their inner experience to improve how they feel about themselves and their relationships. I feel privileged to help my clients achieve their goals and improve their lives by providing the expert, seasoned care necessary to handle even the most complex challenges with precision and kindness.

I believe that the foundation of our work is a relationship of absolute trust and safety. My extensive training allows me to look at your life through a wide lens, understanding how your past experiences and upbringing shape your current personality and challenges. I encourage an honest and direct dialogue, as that is where true mutual understanding begins. When I am not working with clients, I value the perspective that comes from a long career dedicated to human behavior, often finding restoration in the very principles of balance and growth that I share in my sessions. I want my clients to feel safe and empowered during their time with me, knowing they have a safety net of four decades of clinical expertise behind them.

Aetna + 6 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Kimberly Herrera

Kimberly Herrera

Therapist

Virtual • California


I work with individuals, couples, and families seeking meaningful change in their lives. I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process that is supportive, empathetic and nonjudgmental. My role is to provide practical tools, insight, empowerment, and encouragement as you build emotional resilience, resolve internal and interpersonal conflicts, and move toward greater well-being.

Aetna + 6 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Open-minded, Participatory, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Desiree Joslyn

Desiree Joslyn

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in working with neurodivergent individuals and their families, helping to create understanding, support, and meaningful connections.”
Aetna + 6 others
Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQIA+
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Marlene Blanco

Marlene Blanco

Therapist

Virtual • Onyx, CA


“I provide a supportive, non judgmental space for you to work on reconnecting with yourself and making the changes that you want.”
Aetna + 7 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, LGBTQIA+, Relationship issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Amy Plaster

Amy Plaster

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I use a warm, collaborative approach that combines practical tools like CBT with a supportive space to process your experiences.”
Aetna + 6 others
Anxiety, Depression, Identity issues, Men's issues, Relationship issues
Direct, Open-minded, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Anabel Segovia

Anabel Segovia

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive training in nursing and a specialization in mental health and medication management.”
Aetna + 3 others
Anxiety, Depression, Maternal mental health, PTSD, Women's issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Summer Brown

Summer Brown

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


I work with adults across the full span of life, from age 18 through 103, and I truly value the different experiences that come with each stage. Whether you are navigating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or simply wanting to feel more balanced and well, I am here to support you. I believe mental health care should feel accessible and responsive, which is why I offer flexible options like same day appointments, telehealth, and even house calls. My goal is to meet you where you are and provide care that fits into your life, not the other way around.

Aetna + 8 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Edward Olvera

Edward Olvera

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Each session will end with a "To Do" assignment which is when the therapy "begins" in a manner like that which takes place between the coach and the athlete.”
Aetna + 4 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Creative, Direct, Solution-oriented
Haig Barsegian

Haig Barsegian

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Book knowledge is helpful, but life experience is invaluable. I spent over 30 years in sales and management in the airline industry before becoming a therapist...”
Aetna + 4 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, End of life care
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Romyna Becker

Romyna Becker

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Riverside, CA


“I integrate the latest neuroscience research to help you learn about your autonomic nervous system through a somatic-based therapy model called Brainspotting.”
Accepts Aetna insurance
Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Maternal mental health, Relationship issues
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Uzoma Obi

Uzoma Obi

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I am compassionate and empathic in my interaction with my clients and I try to create a safe and supportive environment.”
Aetna + 5 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Roxana Vahdat

Roxana Vahdat

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach helps you explore what's beneath the surface—patterns, emotions, and beliefs that may be shaping your current experience.”
Accepts Aetna insurance
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Participatory, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Audrey McDougal

Audrey McDougal

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Ecotherapist with extensive experience supporting individuals, couples, families and groups. I believe every person has the capacity for growth, resilience, and healing. I also hold a systems and climate-aware perspective, working to support clients within the challenging times / systems we are experiencing. My clients include those who are navigating life transitions or experiencing challenging emotions, i.e. anxiety, depression, loss of purpose, grief, or identity confusion. I also see couples who may be struggling with conflict or communication challenges.

Accepts Aetna insurance
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Beth Pumerantz

Beth Pumerantz

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that when we change the way we THINK, we change the way we FEEL, which will change the way we ACT!!”
Aetna + 4 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, PTSD, Relationship issues
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Gerreka Gilliam

Gerreka Gilliam

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is both direct and empathetic, grounded in building a strong therapeutic relationship as the foundation for meaningful change.”
Aetna + 2 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

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.