Do mental health care clinicians in Carlsbad, California accept insurance?

Yes, most health insurance carriers in Carlsbad, California cover mental health care including psychotherapy and psychiatry. Calculating the exact amount of coverage will be based on the plan details and whether the selected mental health clinician is in-network or out-of-network. LifeStance is in-network with most insurance plans in California, so you’ll pay only a copay at each session after meeting your annual deductible. We work with AetnaAetna-MedicareAnthem Blue CrossAnthem Blue CrossAnthem Blue Cross-MedicareAnthem Blue Cross-MedicareBeaconBeacon-MedicareBlue Shield of CaliforniaBlue Shield of CaliforniaBlue Shield of California-MedicareCentivoCentral Health Plan of California-MedicareClaritev (MultiPlan PHCS)Claritev (MultiPlan PHCS)-MedicareDevoted Health Plan-MedicareEvernorth (Cigna)Evernorth (Cigna)-MedicareHealth Net (MHN)Health Net (MHN)Health Net (MHN)-MedicareHealthSmartHumana-MedicareKaiser Permanente (NorCal)Kaiser Permanente (NorCal)-MedicareKaiser Permanente (SoCal)Kaiser Permanente (SoCal)-MedicareLakeside Medical (Regal Medical)Lakeside Medical (Regal Medical)-MedicareLucet (SCAN Health Plan)-MedicareMagellanMediNcrease Health Plans (MHP)MedicareNorthwell DirectOptum, UnitedHealthcareOptum, UnitedHealthcareOptum, UnitedHealthcare-MedicareOptum, UnitedHealthcare-MedicarePartners Direct HealthProvider Network of America (PNOA)Quest Behavioral HealthSana BenefitsSana Benefits-MedicareTELUS Health (BHS)Tricare West (TriWest)Health Net (MHN)-MedicareMagellan-CommercialMagellan-Medicare However, even in cases when a LifeStance provider is out-of-network with your insurance, you may still be able to receive reimbursement from your insurance company especially If you have a PPO or POS insurance plan. If you have an HMO, EPO, or Medicaid/Medicare plan that LifeStance is out of network with, you likely cannot receive a reimbursement and would be responsible for the full out-of-network session fee. Our mental health provider rates vary based on experience, we would be happy to assist you with clarifying the rate and finding you the right provider.

How can I make an appointment with a clinician in Carlsbad, California?

Once you have found a provider in Carlsbad, California you want to make an appointment with, you can proceed with booking an appointment online via a link on the provider’s profile or request a callback so our office will call you at the time that is convenient for you. This is especially important for new patients, as normally your provider will schedule your next appointment with you before the end of the session. If you are a new patient or want to schedule a session with another provider, the LifeStance scheduling specialist will go over your scheduling preferences and provider’s availability in-person or online. If your treatment involves scheduling appointments in group settings, our specialist will follow up with days and times with you over a phone call.

Find Mental Health Care in Carlsbad, California

Choose from approximately 5 LifeStance supported mental health clinicians that serve patients in Carlsbad, California. Our mental health clinicians see patients in 47 local offices in California and also provide virtual appointments throughout the state.

Rhonda Duncan Higgs, Therapist

After 13 years of active duty in the US Navy, Rhonda sought to compliment her school of hard knocks with a formal education. In 2006, she received a Master of Arts (emphasis in Marriage & Family Therapy) from Chapman University. Rhonda specializes in co-parenting and military culture. As a former service member, co-parent and former dependent of a Navy SEAL, Rhonda has a breadth of experience and knowledge that has proven invaluable. Additionally, she has had experience as a Kids Turn San Diego facilitator, coordinator and consultant from 2007 to 2012. Rhonda utilizes a wide range of theoretical approaches (based on the client’s needs and goals). However, she considers Cognitive Behavioral Therapy the foundation of her therapeutic approach. She has successfully treated patients that suffer from ADD/ADHD, adjustment issues, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, life transitions, parenting issues, PTSD, relationship issues, low self esteem, emotional trauma and women’s issues. Rhonda has also successfully treated at-risk teens, patients involved in high-conflict divorce and individuals recovering from emotionally abusive relationships. In addition to her broad range of life experiences, formal education, and clinical experience, Rhonda states, “I have yet to treat a client that I could not relate to or genuinely empathize with.” Beyond clinical techniques, Rhonda utilizes her sense of humor, intuition, and genuine rapport to help each patient attain their goals and reach their maximum potential.

See More Details

View Provider Details

Accepts: Aetna, Optum (UnitedHealthcare), Medicare See all

Specialties: ADHD, Anxiety See all

Ages Served: 22-74

5.86 miles away

Encinitas, CA

858-279-1223

351 Santa Fe Drive, Suite 200

858-279-1223

Book Appointment Online

Nancy Tokar, Psychologist

Nancy Tokar, PhD, brings a unique and compassionate approach to mental health care, serving individuals across California through LifeStance Health. With expertise in helping patients of all ages, from children and teens to adults and seniors, Dr. Tokar integrates psychological and spiritual perspectives to support a wide variety of needs. Specializing in areas such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance use, she creates a tailored treatment plan that addresses both the symptoms and the root causes of her clients’ struggles. Whether offering individual therapy, couples counseling, or group therapy, her holistic approach ensures that clients in California receive personalized care that fosters resilience and healing. Dr. Tokar is particularly passionate about treating individuals dealing with trauma, midlife transitions, and grief. Drawing on decades of experience, she helps clients navigate complex life challenges, empowering them to find clarity and peace. Her work with trauma, including PTSD, provides a safe and supportive space for those seeking to process their experiences and reclaim their well-being. For individuals facing midlife transitions or the loss of a loved one, Dr. Tokar offers thoughtful, compassionate guidance to help them move forward with confidence and hope. In her practice, Dr. Tokar uses evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Couples/Marital Counseling. These methods are highly effective for treating conditions like OCD, depression, and sleep disorders, while also fostering better relationships and emotional balance. Additionally, Dr. Tokar has extensive experience working with specialized populations, including first responders, individuals on the autism spectrum, and military veterans. She is also well-versed in addressing the needs of the LGBTQ+ community, creating an inclusive and affirming environment for all her clients. Outside of her professional life, Dr. Tokar enjoys exploring Eastern philosophy, practicing meditation, and engaging in art. These personal interests reflect her belief in the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit—values she incorporates into her therapeutic practice to promote overall well-being.

See More Details

View Provider Details

Accepts: Aetna, Optum (UnitedHealthcare), Medicare See all

Specialties: Anxiety, Depression/feeling down See all

Ages Served: 18-75+

5.86 miles away

Encinitas, CA

858-279-1223

351 Santa Fe Drive, Suite 200

858-279-1223

Book Appointment Online

Serena Robles, Therapist

View Provider Details

Accepts: Aetna, Centivo, Partners Direct Health See all

Specialties: Anxiety, Early adulthood: Independent living or relationships See all

Ages Served: 15-26

5.86 miles away

Encinitas, CA

858-279-1223

351 Santa Fe Drive, Suite 200

858-279-1223

Book Appointment Online

Gina Mendez, Therapist

Gina Mendez helps children, teens, adults, and seniors build stability, insight, and resilience when mental health challenges disrupt daily life. She provides compassionate, clinically grounded therapy to individuals and families across California, supporting clients as they navigate complex emotional, behavioral, and relational concerns. Gina is known for creating a safe, collaborative environment where clients feel empowered to engage in treatment and take meaningful steps toward long-term well-being. Gina is particularly passionate about working with trauma and stress-related conditions, especially with First Responders and Military/Veterans. She understands the unique pressures faced by those in high-risk and service-oriented roles and is deeply committed to advocacy, suicide prevention, and reducing stigma around mental health care. Her work often integrates trauma-informed strategies to address PTSD, anxiety, and mood instability, while honoring each client’s strengths, values, and lived experiences. She treats children, adolescents, teens, adults, and older adults with concerns such as PTSD/trauma, anxiety, and alcohol or drug use issues, while also addressing a wide range of additional mental health conditions. Gina works with diverse populations, including First Responders, Military/Veterans, and LGBTQ+ individuals, and offers culturally responsive care tailored to each client’s needs. Her clinical approach draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), along with additional evidence-based interventions as appropriate. She provides both individual and family therapy to support healing at every stage of life. Outside of clinical practice, Gina is deeply involved in equine-assisted therapy and is the founder of a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving veterans and first responders. Her passion for advocacy, education, and community connection strongly informs her therapeutic work.

See More Details

View Provider Details

Accepts: Aetna, Centivo, Partners Direct Health See all

Specialties: First responder stress, Military & veteran See all

Ages Served: 0-75+

5.86 miles away

Encinitas, CA

858-279-1223

351 Santa Fe Drive, Suite 200

858-279-1223

Book Appointment Online

Chantal Flanagan, Nurse Practitioner

View Provider Details

Accepts: Aetna, Optum (UnitedHealthcare), Medicare See all

Specialties: ADHD, Anxiety See all

Ages Served: 11-75+

5.86 miles away

Encinitas, CA

858-279-1223

351 Santa Fe Drive, Suite 200

858-279-1223

Book Appointment Online

Tanya Dorocak, Therapist

View Provider Details

Accepts: Aetna, Optum (UnitedHealthcare), Medicare See all

Specialties: Anxiety, Fertility See all

Ages Served: 6-75+

5.86 miles away

Encinitas, CA

858-279-1223

351 Santa Fe Drive, Suite 200

858-279-1223

Call to Book Appointment

Dmitry Primak, Psychiatrist

View Provider Details

Accepts: Aetna, Optum (UnitedHealthcare), Medicare See all

Specialties: Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder See all

Ages Served: 18-75+

5.86 miles away

Encinitas, CA

858-279-1223

351 Santa Fe Drive, Suite 200

858-279-1223

Call to Book Appointment

Paula Harwood McKenna, Nurse Practitioner

View Provider Details

Accepts: Aetna, Optum (UnitedHealthcare), Medicare See all

Specialties: Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder See all

Ages Served: 18-74

5.86 miles away

Encinitas, CA

858-279-1223

351 Santa Fe Drive, Suite 200

858-279-1223

Call to Book Appointment

Robyn Johnson, Therapist

View Provider Details

Accepts: Aetna, Optum (UnitedHealthcare), Medicare See all

Specialties: Anxiety, Chronic pain-related issues See all

Ages Served: 15-64

5.86 miles away

Encinitas, CA

858-279-1223

351 Santa Fe Drive, Suite 200

858-279-1223

Call to Book Appointment

Charity Hernandez, Therapist

Charity Hernandez, LMFT, helps individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s most challenging moments by offering a safe, supportive space for growth and healing. Serving patients throughout California, she provides therapy for teens, adults, and seniors facing issues such as anxiety, trauma, and relationship stress. Charity focuses on fostering authentic therapeutic connections, empowering her clients to explore underlying emotions, build resilience, and develop the tools needed to manage daily life with greater ease and confidence. Charity is especially passionate about working with individuals who have experienced trauma, including those navigating PTSD and related symptoms. She brings a trauma-informed lens to therapy, offering validation, support, and strategies to heal from difficult life events. She also provides affirming care to members of the LGBTQ+ community and supports individuals involved in adoption or foster care, recognizing the unique emotional and relational challenges they may face. Using interventions such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based approaches, Charity helps clients reduce impulsive behaviors, stabilize mood, and build emotional regulation skills. In addition to trauma work, Charity specializes in treating anxiety, ADHD, and substance use issues. She also supports clients through post-partum depression and anxiety, school avoidance, and couples concerns. Her therapeutic services are inclusive and comprehensive, reflecting her deep commitment to individualized care. She offers both individual and family therapy, as well as couples counseling. Outside of her professional life, Charity enjoys reading, fishing, exploring nature, and watching movies. She treasures time with her children and values moments of connection and calm.

See More Details

View Provider Details

Accepts: Aetna, Centivo, Partners Direct Health See all

Ages Served: 11-75+

5.86 miles away

Encinitas, CA

858-279-1223

351 Santa Fe Drive, Suite 200

858-279-1223

Call to Book Appointment

Mar Rubio Gutierrez, Therapist

View Provider Details

Accepts: Aetna, Optum (UnitedHealthcare), Medicare See all

Specialties: Anxiety, Depression/feeling down See all

Ages Served: 18-75+

6.1 miles away

Oceanside, CA

858-279-1223

3609 Ocean Ranch Blvd, Suite 208

858-279-1223

Book Appointment Online

Monica Oropeza, Therapist

View Provider Details

Accepts: Aetna, Optum (UnitedHealthcare), Medicare See all

Specialties: Anxiety, Panic attacks See all

Ages Served: 18-75+

6.1 miles away

Oceanside, CA

858-279-1223

3609 Ocean Ranch Blvd, Suite 208

858-279-1223

Book Appointment Online

Our Top Rated Mental Health Clinicians Serve the San Diego Metropolitan Area

Encinitas, Escondido, Oceanside, San Marcos, Vista

Our Mental Health Serve the Following San Diego Metropolitan Area Neighborhoods:

Carlsbad, California, is home to several distinct neighborhoods. La Costa offers a mix of residential and commercial areas, with beautiful golf courses and upscale shopping. The Village is a quaint coastal area with a charming downtown, while Aviara boasts luxurious resorts and stunning views. Bressi Ranch is a family-friendly neighborhood with parks, schools, and a vibrant community atmosphere.

FAQs about how to find a clinician in Carlsbad, California

Find a provider near you in Carlsbad, California on LifeStance. To find your perfect match use filters like insurance accepted, therapy specialty, and provider identity. Mental health care clinicians on LifeStance are highly rated and vetted for their extensive experience treating individual adults, children and adolescents, as well as couples and families. They offer both in-person and telehealth care.

Yes, most health insurance carriers in Carlsbad, California cover mental health care including psychotherapy and psychiatry. Calculating the exact amount of coverage will be based on the plan details and whether the selected mental health clinician is in-network or out-of-network. LifeStance is in-network with most insurance plans in California, so you’ll pay only a copay at each session after meeting your annual deductible.

We work with

Aetna
Aetna-Medicare
Anthem Blue Cross
Anthem Blue Cross
Anthem Blue Cross-Medicare
Anthem Blue Cross-Medicare
Beacon
Beacon-Medicare
Blue Shield of California
Blue Shield of California
Blue Shield of California-Medicare
Centivo
Central Health Plan of California-Medicare
Claritev (MultiPlan PHCS)
Claritev (MultiPlan PHCS)-Medicare
Devoted Health Plan-Medicare
Evernorth (Cigna)
Evernorth (Cigna)-Medicare
Health Net (MHN)
Health Net (MHN)
Health Net (MHN)-Medicare
HealthSmart
Humana-Medicare
Kaiser Permanente (NorCal)
Kaiser Permanente (NorCal)-Medicare
Kaiser Permanente (SoCal)
Kaiser Permanente (SoCal)-Medicare
Lakeside Medical (Regal Medical)
Lakeside Medical (Regal Medical)-Medicare
Lucet (SCAN Health Plan)-Medicare
Magellan
MediNcrease Health Plans (MHP)
Medicare
Northwell Direct
Optum, UnitedHealthcare
Optum, UnitedHealthcare
Optum, UnitedHealthcare-Medicare
Optum, UnitedHealthcare-Medicare
Partners Direct Health
Provider Network of America (PNOA)
Quest Behavioral Health
Sana Benefits
Sana Benefits-Medicare
TELUS Health (BHS)
Tricare West (TriWest)
⁠Health Net (MHN)-Medicare
⁠Magellan-Commercial
⁠Magellan-Medicare

However, even in cases when a LifeStance provider is out-of-network with your insurance, you may still be able to receive reimbursement from your insurance company especially If you have a PPO or POS insurance plan. If you have an HMO, EPO, or Medicaid/Medicare plan that LifeStance is out of network with, you likely cannot receive a reimbursement and would be responsible for the full out-of-network session fee. Our mental health provider rates vary based on experience, we would be happy to assist you with clarifying the rate and finding you the right provider.