Do mental health care clinicians in El Cajon, California accept insurance?

Yes, most health insurance carriers in El Cajon, 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 El Cajon, California?

Once you have found a provider in El Cajon, 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 El Cajon, California

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

Larry Crawford, Therapist

Larry Crawford helps individuals, teens, couples, and families across California move from feeling overwhelmed and stuck to feeling steady, understood, and empowered. As a Marriage & Family Therapist with LifeStance Health, he provides individual therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy for adolescents (11+), teens, adults, and seniors. Larry supports clients navigating anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma, offering practical tools and steady guidance tailored to each stage of life. He has extensive experience working with ADHD, alcohol and drug use issues, and childhood behavior concerns, helping families improve communication and rebuild trust. Larry is particularly skilled in addressing couple’s issues and midlife transitions, supporting partners who feel disconnected, caught in repeated conflict, or uncertain about the future of their relationship. His approach is balanced and collaborative—grounded in accountability, empathy, and evidence-based care. Larry integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based strategies to help clients better understand their thoughts, regulate emotions, and build healthier patterns. He also incorporates couples/marital counseling and family therapy techniques to strengthen relationships and create more supportive home environments. In addition to individuals and couples, he works with members of the LGBTQ+ community, First Responders, and Military/Veterans, offering culturally responsive care that honors each client’s lived experience. He offers additional specialties and interventions to meet diverse mental health needs. Since beginning his clinical practice in 2018, Larry has remained committed to providing thoughtful, results-oriented mental health treatment. Outside of his clinical work, he enjoys boxing, meditation, bike riding, and hiking—activities that reflect his belief in balance, resilience, and overall wellness.

See More Details

View Provider Details

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

Specialties: Alcohol use, Childhood behavioral issues See all

Ages Served: 6-75+

3.25 miles away

La Mesa, CA

858-279-1223

8881 Fletcher Pkwy, Suites 350-360

858-279-1223

Book Appointment Online

Arceli Oliva, Nurse Practitioner

Arceli Oliva helps teens, adults, and seniors across California manage their mental health with compassionate and evidence-based psychiatric care. As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health, she specializes in medication management to support clients in achieving stability, clarity, and improved quality of life. Arceli works with individuals navigating conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, psychosis, and sleep disorders, offering thoughtful treatment plans that are tailored to each person’s needs. She is particularly experienced in addressing complex concerns such as ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and eating disorders, as well as guiding individuals through later life transitions and mental health challenges related to medical conditions. Her approach integrates both clinical expertise and empathy, helping clients better understand their symptoms and move toward long-term wellness. Arceli’s work also extends to supporting specialized populations, including first responders, military veterans, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. She incorporates interventions like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and CBT for Insomnia to complement medication management, empowering clients with practical strategies for improved functioning and well-being. Outside of her professional role, Arceli enjoys traveling and has visited more than 30 countries, an experience that has deepened her appreciation for diverse perspectives and cultures. She is also passionate about cooking, hiking, and spending time with her two dogs. These personal interests reflect her belief in balance, connection, and joy—values that inform the care she provides to her patients. At LifeStance Health, Arceli Oliva is committed to helping clients throughout California build healthier, more fulfilling lives through personalized psychiatric care.

See More Details

View Provider Details

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

Specialties: Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder See all

Ages Served: 15-75+

3.25 miles away

La Mesa, CA

858-279-1223

8881 Fletcher Pkwy, Suites 350-360

858-279-1223

Book Appointment Online

Margarita Velosa, Therapist

Margarita Velosa, LCSW, is dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges with a focus on fostering meaningful and lasting change. Serving patients across California, she specializes in providing compassionate care for adults and seniors, offering a wide range of therapeutic services tailored to address each client’s unique needs. Whether supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, or substance use, or guiding couples through relational challenges, Margarita creates a supportive environment to promote healing, growth, and connection. Margarita is particularly passionate about addressing relationship dynamics, anxiety, and women’s issues, including midlife and postpartum transitions. Her approach is rooted in understanding the intricate emotional and psychological factors that affect interpersonal relationships, enabling clients to build stronger and more fulfilling connections. Additionally, she provides specialized support for women facing reproductive challenges, life transitions, and the emotional complexities of postpartum depression and anxiety. With a focus on empowering her clients, she blends evidence-based techniques with a warm, empathetic approach. Drawing from extensive expertise, Margarita employs therapeutic methods such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Couples/Marital Counseling. She also incorporates health and wellness principles into her practice, emphasizing the connection between physical and mental well-being. Her work extends to diverse populations, including first responders, military veterans, and LGBTQ+ individuals, ensuring inclusive and culturally sensitive care. Margarita also has additional expertise in treating PTSD and trauma, grief and challenges related to medical conditions, health psychology and Religious Trauma Therapy. Mission to provide religious trauma-informed support and resources to survivors of and those helping survivors of religious trauma, adverse religious experiences (AREs), faith deconstruction, cults, spiritual abuse, and leaving high demand/high control systems. Beyond her professional work, Margarita is passionate about health and wellness in her own life. She enjoys running, hiking, cycling, and weight training, finding balance and resilience through fitness. Her commitment to self-care and holistic well-being informs her approach to therapy, inspiring clients to explore their own pathways to wellness.

See More Details

View Provider Details

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

Specialties: Attachment issues, General relationship issues See all

Ages Served: 18-75+

3.25 miles away

La Mesa, CA

858-279-1223

8881 Fletcher Pkwy, Suites 350-360

858-279-1223

Call to Book Appointment

Amy Horne, Therapist

View Provider Details

Accepts: Aetna, Medicare, Centivo See all

Specialties: Anxiety, Depression/feeling down See all

Ages Served: 18-74

5.98 miles away

San Diego, CA

858-279-1223

6386 Alvarado Court, Suite 210

858-279-1223

San Diego, CA

858-279-1223

8989 Rio San Diego Dr, Suite 200

858-279-1223

Book Appointment Online

Ray Nagey, Therapist

Raymond Nagey helps individuals and couples in California find greater clarity, balance, and connection in their lives. He provides therapy for adults and teens, supporting those facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns. Through a warm and collaborative approach, he guides patients in building stronger coping skills, improving communication, and working toward meaningful personal and relational growth. Raymond is especially dedicated to helping couples strengthen their relationships. He works with partners to identify sources of conflict, enhance understanding, and build healthier ways of relating to one another. Whether addressing difficulties with trust, communication, or emotional closeness, he creates a safe and supportive environment where couples can develop the tools they need to navigate challenges together. His work extends to relationship skills more broadly, including those with family, friends, and significant others, with an emphasis on cultivating resilience and harmony. With extensive experience treating anxiety, depression, and anger, Raymond uses evidence-based methods to help patients move through difficult emotions and create lasting change. He often integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Couples/Marital Counseling into his sessions, while also tailoring treatment to each person’s unique needs. This personalized approach allows him to support clients in building greater self-awareness and confidence as they move toward healthier patterns of thought and behavior. Outside of his professional practice, Raymond enjoys hiking, tennis, playing piano, attending plays and concerts, traveling, and spending meaningful time with family and friends. These personal interests reflect his appreciation for creativity, connection, and balance—values he also encourages in those he works with.

See More Details

View Provider Details

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

Specialties: Anxiety, General relationship issues See all

Ages Served: 15-64

10.51 miles away

Chula Vista, CA

858-279-1223

2300 Boswell Rd, Suite 275

858-279-1223

Book Appointment Online

Katerina Echegaray, Therapist

Katerina Echegaray, LMFT (formerly known as Silvia Karen Flores Uribe) is a licensed marriage and family therapist with a strong foundation in clinical psychology. She graduated from Universidad Franco Mexicana’s Clinical Psychology program in Mexico City and began her career as a licensed clinical psychologist in 1999. In 2000, Katerina moved to the United States, where she later earned a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from JFK University in California, becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). Katerina specializes in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses across the lifespan, working with individuals, couples, and families. Her areas of expertise include developmental disabilities, severe mental disorders such as psychotic and personality disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, and dual diagnoses involving addiction. She is also skilled in infant and toddler mental health, and offers therapy modalities including psychoanalysis, humanism, DBT, CBT, and family systems therapy. In addition to traditional therapeutic approaches, Katerina is experienced in animal-assisted psychotherapy, working with horses and cats, as well as art therapy. She believes in the continuous mental, emotional, social, and spiritual growth of individuals, and is dedicated to helping her clients achieve mental health, optimal functioning, and a deep sense of fulfillment. Outside of her professional life, Katerina enjoys spending time with her husband and their 11 pets. She has a passion for the arts, including painting, sculpture, and music, and loves to travel. Katerina is inspired by the philosophy of Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who believed that every person is born good and is only later influenced by society. Katerina emphasizes that true therapy is not just about temporary relief—it is a journey toward genuine healing and wellness. While the process may be challenging at times, Katerina is committed to guiding her clients toward becoming stronger, wiser, more resilient, and ultimately, happier.

See More Details

View Provider Details

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

Specialties: Bipolar Disorder, Hallucinations See all

Ages Served: 18-75+

10.51 miles away

Chula Vista, CA

858-279-1223

2300 Boswell Rd, Suite 275

858-279-1223

Book Appointment Online

Sharlene Famisan, Nurse Practitioner

View Provider Details

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

Specialties: Anxiety, Autism: generally independent See all

Ages Served: 18-64

10.51 miles away

Chula Vista, CA

858-279-1223

2300 Boswell Rd, Suite 275

858-279-1223

Book Appointment Online

Marilou Cabusao, Nurse Practitioner

Marilou M. Cabusao, PMHNP, is an empathetic and skilled psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping adults and seniors across California manage their mental health. With expertise in medication management and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), she offers evidence-based treatments to support those dealing with complex mental health conditions. Marilou’s approach is rooted in active listening and compassionate care, ensuring that each patient feels heard and supported throughout their treatment journey. Serving individuals in California, she is committed to helping patients regain stability and achieve a better quality of life. Marilou specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and mood-related disorders, with a deep focus on addressing the unique challenges faced by veterans and older adults. Her extensive experience in geriatric mental health allows her to provide specialized care for seniors dealing with conditions such as psychosis, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate the complexities of mental illness, particularly when it comes to managing symptoms like panic attacks, OCD, and trauma-related concerns. Marilou’s commitment to psychoeducation ensures that her patients are well-informed and empowered to take an active role in their care. In addition to these specialties, Marilou is highly skilled in working with patients who experience social anxiety, self-harm, and psychotic disorders. Her treatment plans are tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual, incorporating both therapeutic interventions and medication management to support long-term recovery. Whether addressing severe mental health issues or providing ongoing care for mood disorders, Marilou is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for all her patients. Outside of her professional life, Marilou enjoys spending quality time with her family. Her personal interests reflect her commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance, a principle she applies in her practice to promote overall well-being.

See More Details

View Provider Details

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

Specialties: Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder See all

Ages Served: 18-75+

10.51 miles away

Chula Vista, CA

858-279-1223

2300 Boswell Rd, Suite 275

858-279-1223

Book Appointment Online

Holly Bates, Therapist

View Provider Details

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

Specialties: Anxiety, General relationship issues See all

Ages Served: 18-75+

10.51 miles away

Chula Vista, CA

858-279-1223

2300 Boswell Rd, Suite 275

858-279-1223

Book Appointment Online

Elizabeth Landram, Therapist

Elizabeth Landram, LCSW, helps adults across California navigate life transitions, improve emotional well-being, and manage complex mental health concerns through thoughtful, evidence-based individual therapy at LifeStance Health. She works with adults and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma, offering a steady, compassionate presence while helping clients build practical coping skills and regain a sense of balance. Elizabeth’s approach is collaborative and tailored, empowering clients to move forward with greater clarity and confidence. Elizabeth is dedicated to supporting individuals facing later life transitions, midlife changes, and the challenges of caregiving for aging parents or family members. She understands the emotional and physical toll these experiences can bring and provides guidance to help clients process grief, manage stress, and maintain their own well-being while caring for others. Her work also includes helping individuals adjust to medical conditions, chronic pain, and sleep-related concerns, with a focus on improving overall quality of life. Her clinical style integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based techniques to address patterns of thinking, enhance emotional regulation, and strengthen resilience. Elizabeth has experience supporting diverse populations, including individuals in the LGBTQ+ community and those recovering from head injuries, and she offers additional areas of support based on each client’s unique needs. Outside of her clinical work, Elizabeth enjoys both indoor and outdoor activities and values spending time with animals.

See More Details

View Provider Details

Accepts: Aetna, Medicare, Centivo See all

Specialties: Aging, Anxiety See all

Ages Served: 18-75+

10.51 miles away

Chula Vista, CA

858-279-1223

2300 Boswell Rd, Suite 275

858-279-1223

Book Appointment Online

Dumka Biragbara, Nurse Practitioner

Dumka Biragbara, PMHNP, provides compassionate and expert mental health care to adults and seniors across California. She is dedicated to helping patients achieve improved mental health and well-being through empathetic, evidence-based treatments. By fostering a safe and supportive therapeutic environment, Dumka tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of her clients, helping them navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience. Her practice includes comprehensive medication management, ensuring patients receive personalized and effective care. Dumka specializes in treating anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression, understanding the profound impact these conditions can have on daily life. Her approach focuses on addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes, guiding patients toward lasting recovery. She also works closely with individuals experiencing trauma and PTSD, creating a safe space for them to process their experiences and reclaim their sense of self. Additionally, she supports clients dealing with sleep disorders and insomnia, recognizing the critical role that quality sleep plays in mental and physical health. Beyond these specialties, Dumka has a passion for working with populations such as military veterans, individuals with developmental disabilities, and those on the autism spectrum. She integrates a holistic and patient-centered approach, offering care that is both inclusive and culturally sensitive. Whether addressing head injuries, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or grief, Dumka provides personalized strategies to empower her patients and improve their quality of life. When she's not practicing, Dumka enjoys traveling and exploring new destinations. Her love for adventure and learning about different cultures enhances her ability to connect with patients from diverse backgrounds. This personal passion reflects her commitment to fostering growth and balance in both her life and her clinical practice. and her practice is inclusive of LGBTQ+ individuals, first responders, and military veterans. Fluent in English, Gujarati, and Hindi, Dhwani effectively serves California's culturally diverse communities. Outside of her professional life, Dhwani finds joy in hiking and exploring new trails, which helps her stay grounded and connected to nature. She also enjoys experimenting with new recipes and spending quality time with family and friends. Her love for reading about psychology and neuroscience reflects her commitment to staying at the forefront of mental health advancements.

See More Details

View Provider Details

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

Specialties: ADHD, Anxiety See all

Ages Served: 18-75+

10.51 miles away

Chula Vista, CA

858-279-1223

2300 Boswell Rd, Suite 275

858-279-1223

Call to Book Appointment

Brenda Duarte, Therapist

View Provider Details

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

Specialties: Anxiety, Focus, concentration & memory See all

Ages Served: 18-74

10.51 miles away

Chula Vista, CA

858-279-1223

2300 Boswell Rd, Suite 275

858-279-1223

Call to Book Appointment

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

La Mesa, Lemon Grove, Santee, Spring Valley

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

El Cajon, California, is home to several distinct neighborhoods. These include Fletcher Hills, a residential area with beautiful views; Rancho San Diego, known for its suburban feel and shopping centers; and Granite Hills, offering a mix of rural and suburban living. Each neighborhood has its own unique character and amenities, making El Cajon a diverse and appealing city to live in.

FAQs about how to find a clinician in El Cajon, California

Find a provider near you in El Cajon, 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 El Cajon, 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.