Find a therapist in California — covered by insurance
Top therapists in California accepting new patients
Headway brings mental health support to California residents with 8,089 empowering providers ready to help. With sessions available virtually or in-person and accepted by 70+ insurance plans, many clients save significantly on their mental health care.
I subscribe to cognitive behavioral therapy, emphasizing the rational behavioral therapy modality. I hold a doctorate (EdD) in counseling and educational psychology from the University of San Francisco, where I also earned my Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy. I earned a Master's in Divinity from the Franciscan School of Theology at the Graduate Theological Union. I have been practicing since 1987 and am a seasoned therapist.
I have lived in the Truckee Tahoe area off an on for over 30 years, I have an AA Degree in Early Child Development, a BA Degree from the University of California Santa Cruz, and I attended the University of. Nevada, Reno for my Masters in Social Work.
My husband and I have two grown children who live in Northern CA and Nevada. We are avid skiers, mountain bikers, and my hobbies include cooking, art, writing, and learning, and of course, playing with our mini golden doodle, Joaquin.
My roots are in Scranton, Pennsylvania; growing up, life was challenging and unpredictable for me and my sisters. I was the first member of our extended family who was able to put themselves through both undergraduate (BA - Latin American Studies/UCSC, and graduate school (MSW- Masters in Social Work, (UNR) and graduate with honors.
All three of my younger sisters followed in my footsteps to pursue higher education and to find success as Professionals.
My husband and I moved to the Tahoe/Truckee area together in the early 1990s, pursuing seasonal employment. We somehow made ends meet, things got a little easier each year, and he later pursued a career in resort and business management, while I pursued continuing education, mental health and licensure, and opening up my practice.
Our son and a daughter both grew up enjoyed attending local public schools in Truckee, and later the Univeristy of California; they are both living fulfilling adult lives in the nearby region.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe healing happens through connection, compassion, and understanding. I partner with clients to explore patterns, build coping skills, and develop greater self-awareness in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment. My goal is to help clients feel more grounded, confident, and aligned with their values.
As a therapist, it is my passion to support women navigating challenges related to different life stages. I provide a compassionate, safe space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to explore their emotional and physical well being.
My focus
I specialize in working with adults facing depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, occupational stress, relationship conflicts, cultural and identity issues, and survivors of abuse. I help clients build understanding and chart a path forward using evidence-based approaches.
My communication style
My style is nurturing, accepting, empathic, and personable. I use unconditional positive regard to help you feel safe without judgment. I validate how you feel and normalize your situation so you can feel comfortable and at ease in our work together.
My journey to mental healthcare
I became a therapist because I have always accepted others, regardless of their background or circumstances. I believe in advocating for those who may not otherwise have a voice.
Welcome!
As a licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), I believe in prioritizing out mental health as a way to live a happy and balance life. Reaching out for help can be one of the hardest things a person can do, great job on taking that step! I’ve been practicing for 10 years, but in the field for 20 plus years. In the last 6 years I have shifted my main focus to adults 18 plus who are struggling with trauma and substance use.
Listen.... Life happens and it's during the tough and difficult times that as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I'm here to offer a safe space of affirmation.... and accountability
My name is Gillermina Alvarado and I go by Mina. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Riverside, CA, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I received my Master's from the University of Phoenix and have been practicing for 9 years.
I work with young children, adolescents, young adults, and adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, grief and loss, behavioral challenges, and life changes. My communication style is calm, accommodating, and personable — I want my clients to feel comfortable speaking with me about anything and feeling safe, and I pride myself on my ability to listen without judgment.
Above all, I believe that you are the expert of your own story, and that you have many strengths that will help you overcome what's challenging you. It takes courage to take the first steps toward change, and I'm here to support and empower you in that journey.
Frequently asked questions
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 California
Finding the right therapist in California starts with getting clear on what you need. Whether you're looking for support with anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, or something else, it helps to find a licensed provider who has experience with your specific situation. California-licensed therapists include LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs, and psychologists, each with different training backgrounds and areas of focus. Reading a provider's bio can give you a sense of their style and approach before you commit to a session.
California is one of the most expensive states for mental health care, which makes using your insurance one of the most practical ways to lower your out-of-pocket costs. On Headway, you can enter your insurance information to confirm coverage and see an estimated session cost before booking. Nationally, Headway partners with over 100 insurance plans, and many patients pay as low as $0 per visit depending on their plan and location.
With providers available across Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, and throughout the state, you can browse therapists offering both in-person and virtual sessions. Every provider listed on Headway is accepting new patients, so you can review detailed bios, check real-time availability, and book directly.
Use left and right arrow keys to switch tabs. Press Shift+Tab to return to the tab list from links in the selected tab.