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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.

Autumn Kern

Autumn Kern

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My work is rooted in the belief that our natural state is wholeness. When we create enough safety and space to listen deeply — to the body, to emotions, to inner knowing — healing becomes possible.”
Aetna + 3 others
Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Identity issues, Infertility
Creative, Open-minded, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Luke Barrett

Luke Barrett

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Luke's clients will always have a specific plan for how to work towards their goals and they will be supported to make progress every session.”
Aetna + 10 others
Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Grief or loss, Men's issues
Direct, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Meagan Pruden

Meagan Pruden

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I value genuine connection and believe healing happens best in a safe, respectful space where you feel truly heard.”
Aetna + 6 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Humorous, Warm
Dr. Lisette Sanchez

Dr. Lisette Sanchez

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I understand the challenges of balancing personal ambitions, family expectations, cultural values, and the pursuit of success...”
Aetna + 1 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Bedaa Qeryaqus

Bedaa Qeryaqus

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based practices like CBT and trauma-informed care.”
Aetna + 4 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Marisa Padilla

Marisa Padilla

Therapist

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“For the past 5 years I've specialized in supporting young adults who feel stuck in cycles of overthinking, fear of rejection, difficulty speaking up about their needs, or unhealthy relationship patterns.”
Accepts Aetna insurance
Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Identity issues, Relationship issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Krista Gerdts

Krista Gerdts

Therapist

Virtual • Santa Monica, CA


“My style is warm, engaged, and genuinely curious — if you're ready to stop going through the motions and start actually feeling like yourself again, I'd love to work with you.”
Aetna + 3 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Diabetes
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Seth Fenton

Seth Fenton

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I offer both therapy and practical, skills-based support. Using approaches like CBT, DBT, and crisis intervention...”
Aetna + 4 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders
Creative, Open-minded, Participatory
Shana Aoyama

Shana Aoyama

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is collaborative and flexible to suit your needs and strengths. You are the expert on your own life, and I contribute another perspective and strategies for meeting your goals.”
Aetna + 10 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Humorous, Inquisitive

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Blesilda "Blessy" Toohey

Blesilda "Blessy" Toohey

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I believe in a holistic approach to mental health care, integrating psychoeducation, counseling, medication management, and lifestyle modifications to promote overall well-being.”
Aetna + 9 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Laurel Mullally

Laurel Mullally

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


As a Nurse Practitioner, I believe healthcare should be a partnership, not a prescription. My approach combines advanced clinical skills with a deep commitment to patient advocacy, ensuring every individual has the tools and confidence to take charge of their health. I specialize in creating personalized treatment plans that honor the whole person — mind, body, and spirit. Whether I’m diagnosing, prescribing, or simply listening, my mission is to make every patient feel seen, heard, and cared for. I strive to turn sessions into moments of trust, learning, and hope."

I am board certified in Family Practice as well as Psychiatry and have been in practice for 25 year. I work with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, bipolar disorder, as well as address physical symptoms or issues that may affect mental health. I hold a Doctorate degree in education and Master Degrees in Advance Practice Nursing and education.

Aetna + 6 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Humorous
Michael Herrera

Michael Herrera

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am warm, friendly, and passionate about my work. I am creative in techniques and I use humor to facilitate the exploration of concerns.”
Aetna + 8 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Challenging, Humorous, Participatory
Hanna Chung

Hanna Chung

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Before problem-solving, I focus on attuning with you and building a positive, trustworthy relationship to ensure a safe and warm environment where you can reach your desired goals.”
Aetna + 2 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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 + 7 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Elizabeth Trujillo

Elizabeth Trujillo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I help clients reconnect with their bodies, their inner child, and their intuition so they can feel present, empowered, and proud of who they're becoming.”
Aetna + 5 others
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Panic disorders, PTSD, Trauma
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Amy Montague

Amy Montague

Psychologist

Virtual • California


I have been practicing for 40 + years, in the Southbay, Torrance area. I am a psychologist with a Ph.D. I specialize with young children, adolescence. I also work with couples, families and am practized in depression, anxiety, psychosis, and divorce. I utalize cognitive/behavioral and psychdynamic therapies. I match my approach to the personality and needs of thebpatient.

Aetna + 4 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Relationship issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Participatory
Darren Blatt

Darren Blatt

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is relationship driven and person-centered, which means I don't try to fit you into the way I "do" therapy; rather, I meet each person...”
Aetna + 9 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Challenging, Humorous, Solution-oriented
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 + 7 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Infertility
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Makeda Goodnight

Makeda Goodnight

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fullerton, CA


“Through the work we do together, we will create obtainable goals supporting your mental health, clarity and wellness.”
Aetna + 6 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Alexander Valenzuela

Alexander Valenzuela

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hello, my name is Alexander Valenzuela PMHNP. I specialize in psychiatric medication management and cognitive behavioral talk therapy. If you're struggling with your mental health and realize you want help, you don't have to do it alone. I am looking forward to starting the journey with you to help achieve your best self.

Aetna + 5 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Challenging, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Erica Carranza

Erica Carranza

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe, heard, and empowered.”
Aetna + 7 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, PTSD
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Sheryl Diane Snow

Sheryl Diane Snow

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a warm, caring, and intuitive therapist who creates a safe space for clients to feel heard and supported.”
Aetna + 9 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Participatory, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Angela Cooper

Angela Cooper

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I truly prioritize open and compassionate communication, ensuring that you feel comfortable and supported every step of the way on your journey to better mental health.”
Aetna + 7 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Clay Crosby

Clay Crosby

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Los Angeles, CA


“I seek to provide clients a safe, non-judgmental place to express and explore their challenges, and help them to rediscover their talents, strengths and resources.”
Aetna + 1 others
Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Creative, Empowering, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Roxana Hernandez

Roxana Hernandez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I will be genuine, authentic and focus on building a trusting relationship that will allow us to work on your goals.”
Aetna + 6 others
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues, Maternal mental health
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Manoj Kumar Sharma

Manoj Kumar Sharma

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Santa Maria, CA


I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, Santa Barbara, California. My practice blends both psychological approach as well as eastern wisdom. With a diverse background of professional and life experiences, I bring empathy, warmth, and a solution-focused mindset to my clients. My goal is to help clients alleviate suffering, boost their productivitiy, and enhance well-being.

Aetna + 5 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Trauma
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Neydi Tovar

Neydi Tovar

Therapist

Virtual • California


Asking for help can feel harder when you've spent most of your life being the one who holds things together. I'm Neydi, a bilingual English and Spanish speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 13 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. I work with individuals and families navigating trauma, grief, anxiety, and substance use. These challenges rarely arrive alone and almost always connect back to our relationships, our families, and the communities we come from. Clients often describe me as warm, direct, and genuinely invested.

Aetna + 6 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Nicole Rose

Nicole Rose

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is direct yet compassionate. I use evidence-based practices like CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care while honoring each person's unique story.”
Aetna + 11 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Empowering, Humorous
Erika Brinda

Erika Brinda

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I try to ensure that each of my clients leave every session feeling heard, understood and respected.”
Aetna + 6 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm

If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward, you don't have to figure it out alone.

I help adults work through anxiety, ADHD, depression, and the stress of big life transitions so you can move forward with more clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of direction.

I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with over a decade of clinical experience, and I bring a calm, grounded presence to the work.

My background spans trauma-informed care, support for college students building self-advocacy and success strategies (especially those with learning differences), and extensive work with the military community — including wounded warriors and their families.

Whether you're navigating a career or life change, managing attention or focus challenges, working through anxiety or depression, or facing relationship stress, I offer a safe, collaborative space where real growth is possible.

Clients often describe me as warm, real, non-judgmental, and direct in a supportive way. I'm LGBTQIA+ affirming and welcome people from all backgrounds with a spirit of inclusion and care.

Aetna + 4 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, OCD
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sofia Villalobos

Sofia Villalobos

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to help you reconnect with the vibrant, positive parts of yourself that may have been dimmed by life's challenges.”
Aetna + 7 others
Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lizette Sayo

Lizette Sayo

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, individualized care rooted in my extensive experience as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.”
Aetna + 8 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Viet Nguyen

Viet Nguyen

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I aim to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and understood. I believe mental health care should be collaborative, practical, and tailored to your unique needs. My approach combines evidence-based treatment with real-life understanding whether that includes therapy, lifestyle changes, or medication management when appropriate. I value honesty, cultural awareness, and meeting you where you are. My goal is to help you feel more stable, confident, and in control of your mental health not just during appointments, but in your everyday life.

Aetna + 4 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Maria Vazquez

Maria Vazquez

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m Maria, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over twelve years of experience working with families, children, and adults. My work has focused on breaking generational cycles of trauma and navigating challenging life transitions. In my work I have supported individuals and families through growing up, raising their children, and bringing healing and harmony into the home. I am deeply passionate about helping others on their journeys toward personal growth and a better quality of life and consider it a gift to be an agent of change.

In addition to my clinical work, I am also a working mother of a college student and clinically supervise and train other clinicians. This experience gives me a unique perspective and understanding on navigating life transitions and balancing multiple roles.

My approach is warm, affirmative, and solution-oriented – with some humor mixed in. While it can feel intimidating to take that first step, if you are ready, I can guide you in finding areas of strength while also challenging areas for growth in a compassionate way. Together we can work toward healing in a safe environment and create positive change to improve your quality of life.

Aetna + 7 others
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Tandrea Thysell

Tandrea Thysell

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Stockton, CA


Hi, I'm Tandrea Thysell, a California-based Marriage & Family Therapist. I've been providing therapy for most of my life (I think I was born to do this!), but professionally for more than 10 years.

Aetna + 5 others
Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Diabetes
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Faiza Sheikh-Mian

Faiza Sheikh-Mian

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am here to support you in building self-awareness + learning tools to help you overcome the challenges you are facing so you can thrive.”
Aetna + 4 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Holistic, Participatory, Warm
Leona Esmaeily-Aimua

Leona Esmaeily-Aimua

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“My goal is to make therapy a safe and supportive space where you can finally speak freely, feel heard, and begin to heal.”
Aetna + 4 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Humorous

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Steven Nelson

Steven Nelson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that meaningful change is possible through a compassionate, collaborative, and evidence-based therapeutic approach.”
Aetna + 12 others
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Lilia Stefanowa

Lilia Stefanowa

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Beverly Hills, CA


“My experience working in critical care has given me the privilege of supporting individuals through some of their most challenging moments, which shaped my compassionate, patient-centered approach.”
Aetna + 5 others
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Panic disorders
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Katie Skouse

Katie Skouse

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Solana Beach, CA


“My approach is warm, humanistic, and attachment-based. Together, we will use your emotional system as a compass to navigate modern struggles, break old patterns, and understand your story deeply without blame or shame.”
Aetna + 7 others
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues, LGBTQIA+
Empowering, 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.