Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 896 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.

Availability updated: 9/10/2026

Often rebooked

Authentic
Intelligent
Direct
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
+4
My name is Mark, and I have dedicated more than 15 years to working with families and youth in the foster care system. Before entering the field of foster care, I served as a combat medic in the military. This experience shaped my commitment to helping others and laid the foundation for my career. I have always been drawn to roles where I can make a positive impact on others’ lives. Helping people has become my true passion. In all my work, I strive to share joy and compassion, centering my approach on the unique needs of each individual I support.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Intelligent
Specialties
Addiction
Domestic Violence
Military/Veterans
+9
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience, I provide compassionate, expert care for individuals, couples, and families navigating a wide range of mental health challenges. My practice encompasses all core mental health issues, with specialized expertise in supporting the military population, addressing addiction, healing with domestic violence, and working with survivors of child abuse. With a deep commitment to fostering resilience and empowerment, I tailor evidenced-based approaches to meet your unique needs, helping you build stronger relationships and a healthier future.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
LGBTQ
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+8
Hi there! My name is Lana Trapp, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe therapy is a uniquely transformative process and that the benefits are endless. I find it extremely rewarding and truly an honor to be invited into one's life and inner world. My priority is to create a safe and supportive space in therapy in order to build and promote trust throughout the therapeutic process. I am here to get to know you and what you are wanting from therapy. I will support you always and challenge you when needed and appropriate. I have a supportive, flexible and easy-going personality. I also believe laughter and humor have a place in therapy. I cannot imagine doing any other kind of work. Helping others and being part of one's therapeutic journey are passions of mine. This is where I am meant to be, and I do hope our paths cross for I would love to work with you!
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Authentic
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+6
As a Christian Therapist, I want to meet you where you are at. I want to listen and support you in gaining the insight and clarity you need to become unstuck in life. By working together, we can identify your strengths, overcome obstacles, and create a plan of action to help you achieve your goals. Minimizing symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and self-worth. I use a mix of therapy modalities to help you shed the narratives that no longer serve you. I DO NOT Serve couples on this platform.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Spirituality
Women's Issues
+9
Hi there! My name is Caitlin, I'm a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) working with young women to navigate generalized anxiety, stress, life transitions, adjustment concerns, and the emotional impact of hormonal imbalances (such as PCOS). My therapeutic approach is authentic, holistic, strengths-based, and grounded in positive psychology. I integrate wellness coaching and faith, when desired, to support lasting well-being.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+6
Welcome! If you are struggling with daily stressors, the state of the world or traumatic experiences, I welcome you to contact me to explore how I can support and help in your healing. Therapy is a space dedicated to exploring your life and mind with the hope of something brighter and lighter. It is to alleviate that tension that may have been weighing you down for some time. I see the therapeutic space as a puzzle that begins with the pieces you put on the table but slowly comes together, through our work, to see the final clearer image. As your therapist, I will help empower and guide you towards unlocking tools to improve your mental well-being.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Direct
Specialties
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
+9
My name is Anna Grabarczyk (grah-bar-chick). European-born and raised, I bring over 12 years of clinical experience. My approach is engaging, action-oriented, and solution-focused, while always grounded in compassion and empathy. I value working with people from diverse backgrounds and strive to integrate a broad psychological and cultural perspective into therapy. With deep respect for different belief systems, I also recognize and thoughtfully address the spiritual dimension of emotional healing when it is meaningful to the client. I focus on several approaches, including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Solution-Focused therapy Trauma-Informed care Attachment-Based theory EMDR Ericksonian techniques
VirtualAvailable

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
Warm
Humorous
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Life Transitions
+10
Shauna Scarano earned her Master of Art's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University. She is a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California, Professional Counselor (LPC) in Colorado, Licensed Addictions Counselor (LAC) in Colorado, and Veteran and Active Military Provider. Shauna has worked extensively with individuals, couples, and families of all ages, races, ethnicities, background experiences, and socioeconomic backgrounds, to work to achieve overall wellness goals. Shauna has provided individual, couples, and family therapy services and enjoys counseling all individuals. Shauna especially loves working with individuals who are considering engagement in therapy for the first time, are considering re-engagement in therapy, or who are working to understand their current levels of motivations, desires, and readiness for treatment. Through the process of therapy with Shauna, you can expect to identify, process, and reduce mental health, addictive, or other symptoms that may be impacting your athletic or other performance, physical functioning, mental functioning, emotional functioning, spiritual functioning, social functioning, and overall wellness. If you are a resident in the states of California or Colorado, and are interested in finding out more about or scheduling mental health or addictions or substance abuse treatment services, Shauna accepts private insurances and self-pay clients. The first session is the clinical intake assessment. Shauna schedules directly in her practice, through direct messaging communications only (text message, email, during appointments scheduling next appointments), and not through the Grow Therapy or Google Calendar despite the calendar showing availability. Please contact Shauna through text or email to schedule your first appointment for the clinical intake assessment, or should you have any questions or concerns. You can also visit her Psychology Today profile through the link below, and can contact Shauna through the website by clicking "contact me."
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Warm
Open-minded
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) based in Irvine, California, and I work with clients throughout the state via tele-health. I work with Adults and specialize in anxiety and stress disorders using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help my clients explore their triggers, emotions, develop coping skills, and achieve positive life changes.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Crisis Intervention
+10
Hi, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in California. I received my Masters Degree in Counseling from Cal State Northridge in 1998, worked in Social Work for the past 24 years and for the past few years have been counseling couples and individuals. I help people deal with their issues from a strength-based compassionate perspective. I am here to support and encourage you while also challenging you to become your healthy and best self.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+4
I have been working with clients for many years. I am honored to work with you and to be with you through the process of self discovery and personal growth. It takes a tremendous amount of courage to push ourselves to grow. It can be difficult; however, it can also be a transformative experience that can provide great personal freedom.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Intelligent
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi, I tell my clients that I work with then using a variety of styles and methods that you get to pick. My treatment approach is usually to give clients new tools to live more effectively or provide experiences that are transformational! Most people are looking to get results quickly while others need more extended work and support. I can offer you both with a caring and empathic style to support you.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Humorous
Specialties
Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
School Issues
+6
As a black female school-based therapist, my dream client is one who approaches therapy with openness, honesty, and a willingness to engage in the process of self-discovery and growth. My dream client understands the importance of mental health and values the support that therapy can provide in navigating the challenges of adolescence. Ideally, my dream client is someone who is eager to explore their identity, including aspects of race, culture, and gender, in a safe and affirming space. They are open to discussing sensitive topics and are willing to challenge societal norms and expectations that may be impacting their well-being. My dream client is proactive in their approach to therapy, actively participating in sessions, completing assigned tasks or homework, and practicing coping skills outside of our sessions. They understand that therapy is a collaborative effort and are committed to working together to achieve their goals. Additionally, my dream client is respectful, compassionate, and empathetic towards others, fostering a sense of community and support within the therapeutic environment. They are open to learning from different perspectives and are willing to engage in discussions around social justice, equity, and inclusion. Overall, my dream client is someone who is committed to their personal growth and development, embraces their uniqueness, and values the power of therapy in fostering resilience and well-being.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Grief
Life Transitions
Men's Issues
+7
My name is Jen Leone, Marriage and Family Therapist in practice for 14 years. I specialize in working with motivated professional adults who need support in relationships, grief, and life transitions. Habits, regret and trauma - all can interfere with living a fuller life and realizing potential. I guide and support those who are ready to get unstuck, moving towards clear rather than fear based-choices.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Attachment Issues
Depression
+1
Hi there, my name is Trish, For more than 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of helping people through life’s challenges and changes. I believe that everyone has a story, and sometimes we need a safe place to be heard, understood, and accepted. I offer a warm, caring space where you can talk openly about what you’re experiencing without fear of judgment. Together, we’ll explore what’s happening in your life, what you need, and what you hope to change.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+4
Hi there! My name is Courtney Carlson and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I have a background in working with a diverse range of clients (children, families, adults) in a variety of settings (school-based, outpatient, long term residential settings). Currently, I focus on providing individual therapy for transitional-aged youth (18-24) and adults. I believe therapy is something I do with clients, not to clients. I typically work with helping clients manage anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms by improving coping skills, processing life transitions, exploring childhood and current family dynamics, improving relationships and communication skills, and improving emotional regulation skills.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Humorous
Direct
Specialties
Anxiety
Attachment Issues
Crisis Intervention
+3
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from California, currently living in Florida. I received my undergraduate degree from William Jessup University, with a Master's Degree from Chapman University. I love people and I love to see relationships thrive. Research shows us that the quality of life that we have is more dependent on the quality of relationships than any other factor. I want you to have the most fulfilling and satisfying life as possible.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+4
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I provide evidence-based psychotherapy for individuals who may be feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, mood-related concerns, or life transitions. I understand that reaching out for support can feel like a big step, and I strive to offer a warm, respectful, and collaborative therapeutic space. My approach is structured and goal-oriented, beginning with a comprehensive assessment to better understand your experiences, strengths, and needs. Together, we work to identify meaningful goals and develop a plan that supports lasting and positive change. I bring extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and families navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood dysregulation. I began providing therapeutic services in 2009 in a school-based setting, supporting students through mental health interventions as part of their IEP services. Since 2018, I have worked in private practice with adolescents and adults, using evidence-based approaches such as Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients build practical skills and greater emotional balance. I hold a Master’s degree from California State University, Long Beach, and completed my supervised clinical training through the Los Angeles Unified School District. My work focuses on building insight, strengthening coping skills, and applying evidence-based strategies to support improved functioning and overall well-being. Please note: I do not provide psychological assessments, disability evaluations, or documentation for emotional support animals. I also do not participate in court-related cases, including custody or other legal matters.
VirtualAvailable
Intelligent
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
+9
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician (NATC), and Personality Disorder Treatment Provider (C-PD). I create a supportive space where clients can process complex trauma, including betrayal trauma, and difficult family-of-origin patterns. I assist individuals recovering from environments shaped by abuse, neglect, abandonment, coercive control, chronic fear, and instability. My work addresses dynamics such as narcissistic family systems, enmeshment, family scapegoating, trauma bonds, antagonistic relationships, and addiction—often rooted in intergenerational trauma and nervous system dysregulation. I support clients in normalizing their emotions, feeling validated, and building greater resilience. I am certified as a DBT Clinician (C-DBT), Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), Mood Disorder Professional (CMDP), and ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP). I grew up in an environment with people who never discussed mental health; this sparked an early interest in the unspoken challenges I observed. As a dual major in psychology and sociology, my coursework was impactful. The lessons continued in graduate school, where I earned dual master’s degrees in social work and public administration. I interned at a domestic abuse shelter, a residential crisis center, and a community behavioral health facility, and completed specialized trauma-informed care training. My professional experience includes serving as a psychotherapist for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault; a behavioral specialist for children with autism, ADHD, and adjustment challenges; and a supervisor for social workers in county behavioral health. Additionally, I have led interdisciplinary teams of social workers and nurses in complex medical case management, and managed public health teams of case investigators, contact tracers, data analysts, and nurses during infectious disease outbreaks. I am deeply committed to helping clients recover from psychological and emotional harm, recognizing the serious impact these experiences can have on overall well-being.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
LGBTQ
Women's Issues
+5
I look forward to meeting you! While I have been licensed for 10 years, I have over 15 years of experience in the field of social work. I have the privilege of working with various populations from young children to adults and older adults in their journeys through life with LGBTQ+ identities, varying socioeconomic statuses, multicultural experiences, and religious backgrounds. I find this calling incredibly meaningful and hold this work and other individuals with much respect and care.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Intelligent
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
+5
My name is Ana Maldonado and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Ventura, California. I am currently working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults, adolescents, couples and families, and specialize in anxiety, stress, and family conflict. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Strength Based Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Life Transitions
Child or Adolescent
+7
Hello, I’m Sascha, If you’re here, you’ve already taken an important step toward prioritizing your mental health. Beginning therapy can bring up a mix of emotions...empowerment, uncertainty, even hesitation—and all of that is valid. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. My background includes work in county-based services, nonprofit mental health, foster care, and school settings. These experiences have allowed me to support individuals across a wide range of needs and life circumstances. I believe that people generally have an internal sense of what they need and where they want to go, but at times can feel stuck or unsure how to move forward. My role is to help you gain clarity around what may be contributing to that feeling and to work collaboratively with you to develop practical, meaningful ways to navigate challenges. Life stressors such as relationship dynamics, limited support systems, past experiences, and difficulties with emotional regulation can all impact our ability to function in the ways we want. In our work together, I aim to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where we can explore these areas and move toward greater stability, insight, and fulfillment.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+6
Hi, I’m Cassandra! I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University. I’ve had the opportunity to work in a variety of therapeutic settings including an inpatient psychiatric hospital treating a higher level of acuity, intensive outpatient program supporting teens and young adults, a residential facility working with incarcerated youth, and an outpatient program at a University counseling center.
VirtualAvailable
Intelligent
Warm
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Family Conflict
+3
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Master Degree from California State University and I've been practicing therapy for over 12 years. I grew up in Italy and moved to the US 42 years ago. I work with adult men and women struggling with trauma, anxiety, life transitions, relationships. I'm passionate about helping them live more fulfilling relationships and peaceful life.
VirtualAvailable
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.