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

Yes, most health insurance carriers in Merced, 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 Quest Behavioral HealthNorthwell DirectCurativeHealth Net-MedicareOptum, UnitedHealthcareAnthem Blue Cross-MedicareMedicareBlue Shield of CaliforniaOptum, UnitedHealthcare-MedicareAetna-MedicareAnthem Blue CrossAetnaDevoted Health Plan-MedicareBeaconPartners Direct HealthCentivoBeacon-MedicareCentral Health Plan of California-MedicareMediNcrease Health Plans (MHP)Magellan-CommercialKaiser Permanente (SoCal)Provider Network of America (PNOA)Magellan-MedicareBlue Shield of California-MedicareHealthSmartSana BenefitsTricare West (TriWest)Evernorth (Cigna)Sana Benefits-MedicareEvernorth (Cigna)-MedicareOptum, UnitedHealthcareHumana-MedicareTELUS Health (BHS)Health Net-MedicareAnthem Blue Cross-MedicareHealth NetKaiser Permanente (SoCal)-MedicareLakeside Medical (Regal Medical)-MedicareClaritev (MultiPlan PHCS)Health NetKaiser Permanente (NorCal)Anthem Blue CrossClaritev (MultiPlan PHCS)-MedicareLakeside Medical (Regal Medical)Blue Shield of CaliforniaMagellanKaiser Permanente (NorCal)-MedicareLucet (SCAN Health Plan)-MedicareOptum, UnitedHealthcare-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 Merced, California?

Once you have found a provider in Merced, 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 Merced, California

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

Larinda Carrier, Therapist

View Provider Details

43.7 miles away

Salida , CA

350-216-8764

5222 Pirrone Court, Suite 101A

350-216-8764

View Availability

Helen Mettu, Nurse Practitioner

Helen Mettu, APN, is dedicated to helping individuals across California achieve mental wellness through personalized, compassionate care. Serving adolescents, adults, and seniors, she provides a safe and supportive environment where patients can address challenges and work toward lasting improvements in their mental health. Helen offers a combination of individual therapy and medication management tailored to each person’s unique needs, empowering them to regain control of their lives. Helen specializes in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma. She is also experienced in addressing substance use issues through medication management, providing an integrated approach to care. Helen incorporates evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness into her practice, ensuring that treatment is both effective and comprehensive. Additionally, she is skilled in helping individuals manage sleep disorders, grief, and postpartum depression/anxiety, offering solutions that foster resilience and healing. Helen is particularly passionate about supporting populations with unique needs, including first responders, military veterans, and individuals on the autism spectrum. Her expertise extends to addressing challenges faced by those with developmental disabilities or head injuries, as well as individuals navigating adoption or foster care. By providing tailored interventions, Helen helps her patients overcome obstacles and improve their overall quality of life. Outside of her professional work, Helen enjoys traveling, reading, and spending quality time with her family. These personal interests reflect her appreciation for balance and well-being, values she integrates into her practice.

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View Provider Details

43.7 miles away

Salida , CA

350-216-8764

5222 Pirrone Court, Suite 101A

350-216-8764

View Availability

Jaime Doradea, Therapist

Jaime Doradea, LCSW, is dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and improve their mental well-being. Serving patients across California, he provides compassionate and evidence-based care tailored to each person’s unique needs. Jaime specializes in individual and group therapy, offering support for children, adolescents, and adults struggling with a range of mental health concerns. Whether addressing anxiety, depression, or trauma, he works collaboratively with his clients to develop effective strategies for healing and growth. Jaime is particularly passionate about supporting individuals experiencing PTSD and trauma-related challenges. He understands the profound impact that past experiences can have on daily life and is committed to helping clients build resilience and regain a sense of control. Additionally, he has extensive experience treating ADHD and childhood behavior issues, working closely with children, teens, and their families to foster positive behavioral changes and emotional well-being. His expertise also includes supporting individuals dealing with sleep disorders and insomnia, helping them establish healthy sleep patterns to improve overall functioning. Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Jaime provides practical tools and coping techniques that empower clients to navigate their emotions and behaviors effectively. He also offers case management services, ensuring that clients receive the comprehensive support they need. In addition to working with individuals, Jaime has a strong commitment to supporting those in the adoption and foster care community, as well as addressing men’s mental health concerns. Beyond his professional life, Jaime enjoys spending time with friends and family, staying active through exercise, and following his favorite sports teams. His passion for connection and well-being extends into his practice, where he strives to create a supportive and affirming space for his clients.

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View Provider Details

43.7 miles away

Salida , CA

350-216-8764

5222 Pirrone Court, Suite 101A

350-216-8764

View Availability

Pete Duarte, Nurse Practitioner

Pete Duarte, APRN, PMHNP-BC, PHN, helps adults across California navigate mental health challenges with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based care. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner at LifeStance Health, he provides personalized medication management and supportive therapy for individuals seeking relief from conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Pete takes a collaborative approach, ensuring each treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s goals, lifestyle, and overall well-being. He has a clinical focus on ADHD, anxiety, and depression, and is especially passionate about helping patients build sustainable strategies for long-term stability and improved daily functioning. Pete also supports individuals managing substance use concerns and co-occurring conditions, integrating practical tools that empower patients to regain control and confidence in their lives. His work is grounded in a balance of clinical precision and genuine human connection. Pete incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques into his sessions, offering actionable skills that complement medication management. He has experience supporting individuals within the autism spectrum and adapts his approach to meet diverse needs, communication styles, and life circumstances. His care philosophy emphasizes transparency, structure, and measurable progress, so patients always understand their treatment path. Outside of his clinical work, Pete values holistic wellness and practices. He enjoys hiking and cycling, using time in nature as a way to recharge and maintain mental clarity. Pete also prioritizes meaningful time with loved ones.

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View Provider Details

43.7 miles away

Salida , CA

350-216-8764

5222 Pirrone Court, Suite 101A

350-216-8764

View Availability

Brock Pistel, Psychologist

Brock Pistel, PhD, helps adults and seniors across California stabilize their mental health, regain a sense of control, and move forward with greater clarity and resilience. As a psychologist with LifeStance Health, he provides individual therapy for a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and complex mental health conditions. Dr. Pistel offers a steady, structured, and compassionate environment where clients can process challenges, build coping strategies, and work toward meaningful, lasting improvement. His clinical focus includes anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, PTSD and trauma, supporting clients in understanding how these conditions impact mood, behavior, and daily functioning. Dr. Pistel works collaboratively with clients to develop practical skills for managing symptoms, improving emotional regulation, and strengthening overall well-being. He also supports individuals navigating life transitions, stress, and co-occurring concerns, and offers additional areas of expertise to address a broad spectrum of mental health needs. His approach emphasizes continuity of care, skill-building, and creating a clear, sustainable path forward in recovery. Dr. Pistel integrates evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients manage distressing thoughts, regulate emotions, and build psychological flexibility. He has experience supporting diverse populations, including first responders, LGBTQ+ individuals, and military or veteran communities, ensuring care is inclusive, respectful, and responsive to each person’s background. Outside of his clinical work, Dr. Pistel enjoys walking, hiking, listening to music, reading, and woodworking, which help him maintain balance and stay grounded.

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View Provider Details

43.7 miles away

Salida , CA

350-216-8764

5222 Pirrone Court, Suite 101A

350-216-8764

View Availability

Tamela Dunn, Nurse Practitioner

Tamela Dunn, PMHNP-BC, is an advanced practice nurse at LifeStance Health, serving patients across California. With extensive experience and a dedicated focus on pediatric and adult mental health, Tamela provides compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals navigating a range of mental health challenges. She specializes in supporting children and adolescents with conditions such as ADHD, autism, and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD), as well as helping adults manage PTSD and trauma. Her commitment to comprehensive care includes medication management and evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to promote lasting well-being. Tamela's approach to treatment emphasizes a collaborative partnership where patients feel heard and empowered. She works closely with individuals and their families, tailoring care plans to meet unique needs and foster progress. For young clients, this might mean guiding children through behavior management strategies, while adults can benefit from her expertise in navigating anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and PTSD. Tamela also provides care for individuals dealing with complex conditions such as bipolar disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder, offering hope and support throughout their mental health journey. Passionate about promoting mental health resilience, Tamela dedicates her practice to addressing not just immediate symptoms but also the long-term wellness of her patients. Her dedication extends to her personal life as well; living in the scenic mountain region of California, she finds joy in spending time with her children and enjoys activities like baseball and volleyball.

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View Provider Details

43.7 miles away

Salida , CA

350-216-8764

5222 Pirrone Court, Suite 101A

350-216-8764

View Availability

Dayla Patterson, Therapist

Dayla Patterson, LMFT, provides compassionate and personalized mental health care to adults and seniors across California. She helps clients navigate life’s challenges by fostering self-awareness, resilience, and personal growth. Through individual, family, and group therapy, Dayla supports her clients in developing the tools they need to promote well-being and lead fulfilling lives. Dayla specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD/trauma. She understands how these conditions can impact daily life and relationships, and she tailors her approach to meet each client’s unique needs. Whether clients are facing the stress of midlife transitions, coping with grief, or managing postpartum depression and anxiety, Dayla offers a safe and supportive environment for healing. She is also skilled in addressing sleep disorders and women’s issues, ensuring that her clients receive comprehensive care. In addition to her primary specialties, Dayla works with individuals managing ADHD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis/schizophrenia. She incorporates evidence-based interventions like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness practices to support her clients' progress. Dayla is also experienced in family therapy, helping families strengthen communication and navigate complex dynamics. Dayla’s practice is inclusive, serving diverse populations, including individuals in the adoption and foster care system and those on the autism spectrum. She is passionate about creating an affirming space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered. Outside of her professional life, Dayla enjoys reading, meditation, and exercising. She finds fulfillment in helping clients connect with their strengths and navigate available resources to achieve happiness and personal growth.

See More Details

View Provider Details

43.7 miles away

Salida , CA

350-216-8764

5222 Pirrone Court, Suite 101A

350-216-8764

Call for Availability

Our Top Rated Mental Health Clinicians Serve the Merced Metropolitan Area

Atwater, Livingston, Winton

Our Mental Health Serve the Following Merced Metropolitan Area Neighborhoods:

Merced, California, is home to several distinct neighborhoods. These include Downtown, known for its historic buildings and local businesses. The Northside offers a mix of residential and commercial areas. The Southside features a variety of housing options and parks. Lastly, the Eastside is known for its quiet streets and family-friendly atmosphere.

FAQs about how to find a clinician in Merced, California

Find a provider near you in Merced, 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 Merced, 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

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