Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 835 verified therapists in California who accept Optum insurance, you can filter by therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and solution-focused therapy to address issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist is currently welcoming new clients and has availability within the next 30 days, ensuring you have access to quality care that fits within your Optum insurance coverage.

Find therapists near you in

Los AngelesSan DiegoSan FranciscoSacramentoOaklandSan JoseLong BeachFresnoRiversideBakersfieldIrvinePasadenaStocktonAnaheimTorranceRosevilleBeverly HillsCoronaPiedmontSanta Clarita

Availability updated: 10/13/2026

Authentic
Empowering
Intelligent
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQ
+10
Are you feeling stuck, disconnected, or unsure of who you are becoming? Life transitions, relationship struggles, anxiety, grief, identity questions, and existential pain can leave us feeling overwhelmed or lost. Therapy offers a space to pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself in a deeper way. I help individuals of all ages better understand the unconscious patterns that shape their emotions, relationships, and sense of self. Together, we explore what may be keeping you stuck, uncover deeper meaning in your experiences, and create space for healing, growth, and lasting change. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in Depth Psychology and Integrative Healing Practices, I offer a holistic approach that honors the connection between mind, body, and spirit. I believe each person carries an innate capacity for healing, and therapy can help bring that inner wisdom forward. My role is to support you with compassion and insight as you move toward greater clarity, authenticity, and wholeness.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session

Often rebooked

Authentic
Intelligent
Challenging
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+9
You’re an Asian-American professional who has achieved a great deal, yet you still feel unhappy. You may feel angry with the people you love most, anxious about what life may bring, disappointed when things don’t go your way, and frustrated with all of the above. You know there has to be more to life than simply getting through the day, but you haven’t been able to figure out what that is yet. As a second-generation Korean American therapist, I understand both personally and professionally how difficult it can be to grow up between cultures, navigate family expectations, and develop a stable sense of confidence and self-respect. My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. I draw from CBT, psychodynamic therapy, supportive therapy, and mindfulness to help clients better understand themselves and develop the skills needed to create lasting, meaningful change.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Authentic
Intelligent
Specialties
Depression
Grief
Physical Health Condition
+5
Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Southern California. I received my Masters from Azusa University and have been practicing for 7 years. I help young adults experiencing emotional distress, burnouts, and life stage challenges overcome their difficulties and reach their goals. Additionally, I enjoy working with individuals facing cultural issues within their family of origin and with partner.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Authentic
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+3
My goal as a therapist is to provide support and encouragement to you during challenging times. I believe my role is to use my education and experience to help you achieve your desired outcome and help you find ways to learn to live with your present life circumstances. I specialize in evidence-based treatments for a wide range of conditions including anxiety, depression, career issues, difficult life transitions, adverse childhood experiences, grief & loss, relationship issues, anger management & domestic violence, and athletic performance. I grew up in a small coastal town in Northern California, and graduated from Humboldt State University. From there I moved to Redding California and started my career as a Marriage and Family Therapist.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Open-minded
Empowering
Specialties
Depression
Grief
LGBTQ
+14
Considering counseling is a big step and takes courage. I want to offer you that safe space for you to share in a caring and understanding environment. I can help you through your challenging journey to overcome your angst. My name is Myrna Vargas-Evert and I an LCSW. My experience ranges from working with adults in empowering them to overcome the burden of Anxiety and Depression. I have also worked with children and families providing communication, parenting, and relaxation skills, CBT and Strength Based approaches. My specialty is grief, gerontology, and TBI (traumatic brain injury). I also work with the Gerontology (older adult) population in Home Health & Hospice and persons who experienced a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) through a specialized return to Home & Community Program by providing education and support to the patients and their families so that they can have a more meaningful life.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Trauma and PTSD
My focus is to provide support and guidance. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy (ages 5+) using a client-centered approach. I use a wide variety of therapeutic approaches, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), etc. I am bilingual in English and Spanish. I provide a client-centered approach with motivational interviewing. I use a wide variety of therapeutic approaches.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Solution oriented
Authentic
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+5
Hi! Do you feel burdened by anxiety or overwhelmed by dark and gloomy thoughts? Do you feel frustrated that you are not as happy as you used to be, less sociable, more alone? Do you feel that life's circumstances have gotten you down, tired, and burnt out? I am an LCSW with over decades of experience working with individuals and families navigating life's journey with chronic illness, grief, anxiety and depression. Sometimes life can be tough and challenging. We may feel stressed, overwhelmed and isolated. Life transitions can be difficult and take effort, dedication and motivation. I specialize in treating self esteem issues, grief, anxiety, depression, post partum depression, caregiver stress, burn out, communication and relationship difficulties. Let's collaborate to identify what's not working so that we can reset, achieve balance and positivity in your life, and maximize day to day functioning. I am here to provide assistance, support and guidance and to remind you that reaching out is a sign of health and strength
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Women's Issues
As a licensed clinical social worker, I bring a compassionate and client-centered approach to help adults navigate life's complexities. With expertise in mental health and a commitment to fostering positive change, I specialize in addressing issues such as stress, relationships, and self-discovery. My therapeutic toolkit includes evidence-based modalities tailored to your unique needs. In my practice, I incorporate animal-assisted therapy as a unique and supportive element of the healing process. Whether it’s the calming presence of a therapy dog during sessions or structured therapeutic activities involving animals, I’ve found that the bond between humans and animals can open up powerful pathways for trust, regulation, and emotional connection. Animals can offer a grounding presence for clients of all ages and backgrounds, and I love seeing the ways they help people feel more comfortable, understood, and at ease.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Authentic
Empowering
Warm
Specialties
Coping Skills
Crisis Intervention
Spirituality
+5
Welcome to my professional practice focused on providing emotional support. Navigating the complexities of life can be challenging, and seeking assistance is a testament to personal strength. As a licensed therapist, I specialize in working with couples, families, and individuals, addressing psychological issues such as emotional distress and relational dynamics. I offer both Christian counseling and secular therapeutic modalities, creating a secure environment for clients to express their emotions and foster healthier interpersonal connections. My methodology is rooted in evidence-based practices aimed at managing anxiety, facilitating life transitions, and processing past traumas. Together, we will work on enhancing self-awareness and implementing strategies for positive behavioral change, ultimately paving the way for a more satisfying and enriched life experience. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together!
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Hello, and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 28 years of experience in the mental health field. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space to process, learn to unlearn that which is no longer helpful to you, and rebuild. My services can be provided in English, Portuguese, or Spanish and include stress management, coping with depression and/or anxiety, and learn to live with what cannot be changed. A meaningful life must be constructed, with care and diligence, kindness and courage.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Solution oriented
Warm
Direct
Specialties
Addiction
Anger Management
Child or Adolescent
+2
Hello I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing in the field of Social Work for over 30 years. I have worked with many different people from a variety of cultures. I have helped both children, adolescents and adults with various concerns from criminal behaviors, addiction, and serious mental illness. I have helped people change their behavior and thinking so they can reach their potential, achieve their goals and heal emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Direct
Warm
Authentic
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
+10
I am a straight-forward but empathic therapist, who also appreciates the same from her clients. I also believe in the social work mission of starting where the client is, so sessions are based upon that analogy. I have experience in many areas, including hospital, foster care, group homes, forensics, Veterans, home health, etc. I received my Masters of Social Science Administration from Case Western Reserve Univerity, and my Doctorate of Psychology from California Southern University. Although I have a doctorate degree, my scope of practice does not fall under psychological testing, pharmacological practices, nor community services. I only do individual therapy so if you need case management (such as letters), family/couples therapy, psychologicial testing, or medication, please refer to those licensed or practicing in those areas.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Authentic
Humorous
Warm
Specialties
Child or Adolescent
Men's Issues
Women's Issues
+10
My name is Gary Youssef and I have been providing mental/behavioral health services for children, adolescents, adults and families for 25+ years. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing mental/behavioral health issues impacting children and adults such as: career/school stressors, depression, anxiety, relational issues, parenting, family systems, medical challenges, healthy lifestyles, etc. I worked for 14 years as a therapist and program manager at the central outpatient psychiatry clinic at Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego which is ranked as one of the top 10 children's hospitals in the United States by U.S. News and World report. I have helped provide behavioral health services for over 10,000 children, adults and families throughout San Diego County. In addition, I helped support U.S. service members and their families while working as a military family life counselor at Naval Medical Center-San Diego in Pediatrics. I also volunteered at San Diego Unified School District and coached little league. I love being a father to my two awesome sons and I enjoy athletics and cooking in my free time. I am practical and eclectic therapist combining elements from theoretical orientations such as cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy to help clients of all ages. The vast majority of my clients report that they had a good experience working with me and describe me as experienced, professional, friendly, kind, helpful and effective.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Hi, I’m Maureshia, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over eight years of experience supporting individuals through life’s challenges. I work with young professionals and diverse populations, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, navigating anxiety, depression, career transitions, work-life balance, and identity exploration. My approach is warm, collaborative, and goal-oriented, focused on creating a safe space where you can gain insight, build practical skills, and move forward with confidence and clarity.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Intelligent
Authentic
Direct
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Starting therapy can feel empowering, confusing, or even intimidating—and it’s worth taking a moment to recognize the courage it takes to take this first step toward caring for your mental health. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where you can explore challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-care, and more. My goal is to help you strengthen communication and boundaries with yourself and others so that you can improve your quality of life and move toward the future you envision. Therapy is not just about overcoming obstacles—it’s also about personal growth. Together, we’ll clarify your goals and identify strategies to help you move toward them, whether that means change over the next month, six months, or a year. You’ll leave our sessions with practical insights and “next steps” you can put into action right away. I believe life’s purpose isn’t simply to be happy, but to find meaning—and within that meaning, joy emerges. While the journey isn’t always easy, it can be transformative. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Addictions Professional, Internationally Certified Drug Counselor, and Behavior Analyst. I take a strength-based approach, helping you use your unique abilities to address challenges. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to empower you in creating lasting change. Most importantly, I bring a relaxed, compassionate, and trustworthy presence, fostering a therapeutic relationship where you feel safe and supported.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session

Often rebooked

Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
+8
Hi, I’m Robyn Slayton-Lopez, a Licensed Professional Counselor who believes therapy should feel supportive, genuine, and, even when we’re doing hard work, sometimes a little bit human and real. I work with adults navigating depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, substance use, and dual diagnoses. I also specialize in working with neurodivergent clients, including those with ADHD and autism, through an affirming and strengths-based lens. My approach is compassionate, practical, and tailored to each person I work with. I draw from evidence-based models such as CBT, DBT, Inference-based CBT, and ERP, blending them with creative, collaborative strategies that make therapy meaningful and engaging. I want clients to feel seen, supported, and equipped with tools that actually work in their day-to-day lives. I don’t believe therapy has to feel clinical or stuffy. You can expect a mix of warmth, humor, and honesty in our sessions, because real healing happens when you can show up as your full self, without judgment. If you’re ready to work with someone who understands both the science of mental health and the uniqueness of being human, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQ
+10
If you’ve been feeling disconnected, anxious, or weighed down by the past, you don’t have to go through it alone. I’m Sujin Ma, PhD, LPCC, BC-DMT, a licensed therapist and board-certified dance/movement therapist. I help people feel more connected, understood, and at ease within themselves. My approach is gentle and collaborative, blending conversation, mindfulness, and creative expression. As an immigrant and bilingual therapist who has lived in several countries, I strive to create a space where all parts of you feel seen, supported, and accepted.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Family Conflict
+6
Hello! My name is Dioscelina Gonzalez, and I am a first-generation Latinx therapist. I am passionate about supporting the Latino community and other marginalized populations. As a proud Hispanic Mexican American licensed clinical social worker, I bring a culturally responsive and trauma-informed approach to my work. I am fluent in both Spanish and English, which allows me to provide therapy that honors language, culture, and identity.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+5
Hi there, I’m Cynthia! Do you feel overwhelmed with life’s challenges and are looking to restore balance and moderation to promote a sustainable lifestyle? Has your self-esteem taken a hit due to the constant changes and expectations of society? Are you looking to improve or change the trajectory of your life? I assist adults who experience mental health concerns that range from anxiety, depression, impulse control, inattentiveness, behavioral concerns, relationship challenges and difficulties with establishing healthy boundaries. Collaboratively, we can regain control of your thoughts and actions by exploring underlying concerns that are driving destructive behaviors and develop effective ways to improve overall functioning in all environments.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Authentic
Intelligent
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+10
Hello, I'm Karen and I am so happy that you have made this first step of seeking what might help whatever situation you are in. It's a big step, and not taken lightly. Therapy effectiveness is known to work best when it feels like the right fit for you, and you are in a place in your life to move forward with it. I have been doing this for a minute, and know how much change can come about walking alongside you on this journey. I have worked in outpatient settings, managed counseling programs, private practice, schools, drug treatment, crisis response, elder care, and at-risk settings. While I have skill sets in those areas, I feel that working with anxiety, trauma, grief, ADHD , and adjustments to life's circumstances are particularly strong attributes for me.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+5
Hello, my name is Elena, which means “shining light.” I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing since 2015, when I earned my Master’s in Social Work. Throughout my career, I have worked in a wide range of settings, including hospitals, mental health clinics, domestic violence shelters, foster care, addiction treatment centers, and jails. These diverse experiences have helped me discover what I value most in my work: making a meaningful difference in the lives of the people I serve. Whether I am supporting someone through depression, helping them manage anxiety, processing long-held trauma, or simply offering a safe space to be heard, I find deep fulfillment in walking alongside others on their healing journey. True to the meaning of my name, I strive to be a source of hope and light for those I meet, believing that even small moments of connection can create lasting change.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+5
I have been working as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for the last 14 years and have both a master's degree and doctoral degree in applied clinical psychology. I have worked in the community with individuals, youth with high-risk behaviors, and military families. I specialize in working with individuals with anxiety and/or depression, women's issues, substance abuse and recovery, trauma (PTSD or PTS) , military and veterans, first responders and those facing relationship or life transition concerns. While working with my clients I focus on the whole person, pulling forward your strengths and wisdom to solve life's challenges. I use solution-focused, cognitive behavioral and emotion-focused interventions. I also have seven years experience working with people outdoors in nature. I have a certificate in nutrition for mental health and believe in holistic treatment involving mind, body, and spirit. I will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is right for you as an individual. If you want to work holistically, we will develop a plan to address all three aspects, and if you don't prefer to work holistically, I will tailor your treatment to your specific interests. I value the rapport I develop with my clients above all things. The nature of the therapeutic relationship is the catalyst and holding space that creates safety to do all future work together. Choosing the right therapist who has a personality you are comfortable with is of utmost importance. Please reach out to me for a free phone consultation and let's find out if we can do some great work together to solve life's many challenges.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Solution oriented
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience supporting adolescents, young adults, adults, and families through life’s challenges. I work with clients navigating trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, and complex family dynamics, always honoring their cultural background and personal story. Through a compassionate, client-centered approach, I help individuals build resilience, gain insight, and develop the tools they need to heal, grow, and lead more empowered lives.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session

Often rebooked

Empowering
Authentic
Humorous
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Hi! I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in California with a Master’s degree from Teachers College, Columbia University in New York City. I have over 9 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults, helping them navigate anxiety, depression, and various life stressors. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, empowering clients to build on their strengths and achieve lasting personal growth.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session

Often rebooked

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+8
Hi, I’m Olivia, a therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and understanding. My approach is collaborative and supportive, drawing from evidence-based methods to fit your unique needs. Whether you’re seeking relief from stress, healing from past experiences, or striving for personal growth, I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey toward greater clarity and well-being.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Frequently asked questions

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in California. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across California from San Francisco to San Diego! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in California.

Yes! If you use Optum you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Optum you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs. Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center.Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.