Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 748 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.

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Los AngelesSan DiegoSacramentoOaklandSan Francisco

Availability updated: 11/20/2025

Steve LeSieur

LMFT, 7 years of experience

Intelligent
Direct
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Family Conflict
Men's Issues
+5
Hi there. I'm Steve. I specialize in relationships of all kinds, especially romantic/intimate/sexual and including ethical nonmonogamy (ENM). I believe living in the world today means the demands for your attention are often relentless, sometimes making you overwhelmed, stuck, or feeling like you've lost touch. Think of therapy as a place where you and I show up for YOU—for that very blessed being you get to be, this whole life. In turn, this helps all your relationships thrive, which again, helps you thrive too! We all have a natural drive to adapt, learn, and grow, and we do so in relationships—with ourselves, with others, with ideas and values, and with the world. You and I will listen closely—from where you are right now—to help reconnect you to your innate tendency to grow and change in desired ways. This may very well mean tolerating more friction and tension at first. It’s alright. You will get more comfortable with being uncomfortable. Over time, knowing how you feel, think, and act—right here and now—will help you make better choices, recharge your sense of well-being, and enliven your relationships.
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Brandon Rodriguez

LMFT, 4 years of experience

Holistic
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+10
My name is Brandon A. Sandate Rodriguez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California with four years of professional clinical work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I have worked with adolescents and young adults in the juvenile justice system and with adults with serious and persistent mental health concerns. In working with marginalized communities my focus is toward enhancing self-awareness by emphasizing the importance of understanding one’s culture and identity. I aim to connect deeply with my clients and build professional and supportive relationships that can provide healing and growth.
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Steven Schwartz

LCSW, 11 years of experience

Solution oriented
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Hi there, I'm Steven. Do you feel that life has become hard to handle? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health, or maybe the things that used to make you feel productive? When was the last time you were kind to yourself? I help people manage their distressing mood changes and unexpected stresses. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a holistic approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. We will work to uncover the "healthy" you that has been stymied by the tough circumstances you find yourself in. Let's do this together. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome your challenges.
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Mere Abrams

LCSW, 11 years of experience

Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
LGBTQ
Life Transitions
+7
Hi there — I’m Mere Abrams, a queer, trans therapist with over a decade of experience supporting LGBTQIA+ youth, young adults, and adults, as well as their parents, caregivers, and family members. I specialize in creating intentional, nonjudgmental, and affirming spaces where clients can ask questions, process experiences, build coping skills, and feel more grounded in their values and sense of self. I support clients in recognizing and breaking patterns, building resilience and confidence, and fostering a deeper understanding and connection with self and others.
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Pär Daniel Andréasson

LMFT, 9 years of experience

Authentic
Humorous
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
+9
My goal as a therapist is to help clients face both the real and perceived challenges in their lives with clarity, support, and renewed strength. I approach each person as a unique human being with their own story, strengths, and struggles, and I see therapy as a collaborative process of moving forward together. I work in a way that is direct and pragmatic, drawing on psychoeducation and clinical experience to give clients new ways of seeing, understanding, and coping with life’s difficulties. At the same time, my style is deeply connection-based, rooted in empathy and authenticity, with room for levity when appropriate. I am a hopeful therapist who believes in the process of growth and in our ability as human beings to continually renew ourselves. I find it a genuine honor to share in a client’s journey, and I approach the work with respect, presence, and care. I work with a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety and anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship and coupling challenges, parenting stress, OCD, and many others.
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Stephen Del Grosso

LMFT, 8 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Feeling down, unmotivated or flat? Are you disengaging in previously pleasurable activities leaving you feeling unmotivated and anxious? Through a collaborative partnership, I can help you lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life, helping to reduce anxiety and boost problem solving all from the comfort of your living room! I utilize a client centered, solution focused approach, through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing interventions to help reduce anxiety and depression and promote wellbeing. I have had success working with crisis intervention and trauma informed care to help a variety of clients’ ranging from minor disturbances to significant impairment. Through my eclectic approach, I can treat a wide range of client needs. My experience stems from working with individuals, young adults and couples who struggle to overcome anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment disorders and substance use disorders. Whatever the issue, I can be of service to offer an empathetic, patient centered level of care that will meet your needs.
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Lisa Perkins

LMFT, 9 years of experience

Empowering
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+6
Hi, my name is Lisa Perkins, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I specialize in helping people overcome and manage the challenges in their lives. I empower people to see and reach beyond their circumstances. Who you are, where you are and what you are experiencing today does not have to be your tomorrow. Can you imagine becoming who you are meant to be? I can, "Piece by Peace."
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Jennelle Saavedra

LMFT, 10 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+10
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, born and raised in California. I received my Masters degree from Brandman University. I have experience working with adults, children, and families struggling with a wide range of challenges, such as, depression, anxiety, trauma, work/academic issues, and relationship conflicts. I also have experience in grief and loss, as well as emotional/behavioral challenges in children, teens, and adults.
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Evan Jones

LMFT, 6 years of experience

Open-minded
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Addiction
+9
Hi! I'm Evan and I'm a licensed therapist (LMFT) based in California. I believe that everyone has unique strengths that can be harnessed to overcome obstacles and achieve personal growth. In our sessions, we'll work together to identify your goals and create practical, actionable solutions tailored to your specific needs, whether you're dealing with stress, depression, relationship issues, or anything in between. My therapeutic approach is rooted in solution-focused therapy and positive psychology, utilizing a strengths-based perspective to help you navigate life's challenges and transitions. Together, we’ll focus on fostering a positive mindset to help you create meaningful and lasting change. My aim is to provide a supportive and encouraging environment where you feel understood and motivated to take charge of your life. Let's work together to unlock your potential and build a fulfilling, balanced, and happy life.
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Jennifer Stoneburner

LMFT, 13 years of experience

Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+9
My name is Jennifer Stoneburner, I am an LMFT in California. I have 13 years experience. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, ADHD, depression and I especially love to work with holistic modalities, such as EMDR and Mindfulness. I am passionate about helping children, teens, and adults decrease anxious symptoms, so they can find their true selves and live a happy, joyous, fulfilled life.
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Christina Flynn

LCSW, 7 years of experience

Open-minded
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Post Partum
+10
Hello, my name is Christina and I am passionate about serving those who have been suffering and are looking for real solutions to their problems. I look forward to helping you meet your long and short term goals through our collaborative and therapeutic work together. I have 7+ years of post grad experience treating children, adults, families, former foster youth and incarcerated adults in a variety of mental health settings.
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Sam Moglen

LMFT, 8 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Holistic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Welcome—I’m Sam Moglen, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) providing therapy for individuals and couples in Berkeley, CA, and throughout California via online sessions. Whether you’re struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges, therapy can help you find clarity and feel more connected to yourself and those around you. I am trained in a range of modalities including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), the Rest and Restore Protocol, the Safe and Sound Protocol, Polyvagal Theory, and somatic therapy approaches in a way that feels safe and comfortable for you.
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Sheldon Chase

LCSW, 24 years of experience

Warm
Holistic

Specialties

Grief
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
+5
I'm Sheldon like the TV show! (Big Bang Theory). I help analytical high-achieving adults who feel stuck in patterns of anxiety and depression untangle their inner world and reconnect with their deeper self-using insight-driven therapy, dream exploration, and a creative lens that helps them uncover what's been buried beneath the surface. Do you often say, "I'm successful on the outside but exhausted and anxious inside," "overthinking everything, but still feeling stuck," or being in a "constant sense of restlessness or dissatisfaction," or being a person who "struggles to access or name emotions clearly." I help clients have greater awareness and emotional clarity and begin to feel grounded, self-trusting and more internally connected. I hope to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms through deeper insight and ability to recognize and break unconscious patterns. I help clients discover meaning through creative exploration, and dream work. I want clients to increase their confidence in navigating relationships and decisions and moving from analysis paralysis to self-acceptance and expression. My areas of expertise are in Depression, Anxiety, Chronic Mental Illness, Risk Assessment, Trauma, PTSD and Substance Abuse Disorders.
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Selam Gebrekristos

LMFT, 15 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Depression
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience, dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families on their journey toward healing and personal growth. With a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, I provide a compassionate, judgment-free space where clients can explore life’s challenges and work toward meaningful change. I specialize in helping clients navigate relationship dynamics, life transitions, anxiety, and personal development, empowering them to break through barriers and create fulfilling lives. I aim to offer understanding, support, and practical tools to help clients build stronger connections and find clarity in their lives.
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Brannon La Force

LPCC, 37 years of experience

Authentic
Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Personality Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
Brannon La Force, a Mobile, Alabama native, is a mental health professional with 35 years in the field. He holds licenses in Alabama, California, Florida, Kansas, Oregon, and Texas as professional counselor. He completed a BA in History from Asbury University, and a MS in Counseling from the University of South Alabama. He is a PhD doctoral candidate in Clinical Psychology with Walden University. He is the Owner and Senior Clinician with Brannon La Force, LPC-S & Associates, PLLC and currently lives and works abroad as a digital nomad. Mr. La Force is also an Adjunct Professor at Southern New Hampshire University where he teaches forensic psychology. In addition to owning a private practice, he has worked in community mental health, a forensic hospital, hospital emergency rooms, and inpatient psychiatric units. While the bulk of his work has been in the US, Mr. La Force has also written behavior plans for intellectually disadvantaged adults in Australia, treated genocide survivors in Rwanda, and supported sailors in the US Navy with their mental health needs on the island kingdom of Bahrain. His areas of expertise include trauma, relationships, and borderline personality disorder. He is an avid proponent of Dialectical Behavior Therapy and runs a DBT group. He also supervises associate counselors in Texas and Kansas and precepts psychiatric nurse practitioners nationwide for their psychotherapy rotation. Mr. La Force has three adult children, two of which are also counselors. He is an avid Crimson Tide fan, loves seafood and provides support to Village Health Team in western Uganda.
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Alicia Flores

LMFT, 13 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Depression
+1
Are you feeling overwhelmed by persistent sadness or anxiety? Struggling to find a way to manage these emotions? I'm here to help you navigate these challenges. My approach is focused on helping you manage your feelings and take meaningful steps in the areas that matter most to you. Although we can't always change our thoughts and emotions, we can learn to respond to them in healthier ways. Together, we will work on building acceptance, resilience, and genuine connections to support your healing and well-being.
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Eduardo Umana Cobar

LCSW, 8 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Intelligent
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my Masters from the University of Southern California and have been practicing for 8 years. I help pre-teens, adolescents, and adults struggling with different life challenges become the best versions of themselves. I work full time as a Behavior Health Counselor for a school district in California, and I take clients part time in the evenings from 4:30pm to 7:30pm. I pride myself in developing strong and authentic relationships with my clients as they include me as part of their healing journey.
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Ani Sargsyan

LCSW, 15 years of experience

Empowering
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Career Counseling
+7
My name is Ani and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Bachelor's degree from UCLA in 2007 and obtained my Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University in 2010. I have experience providing individual and family therapy, case management and crisis intervention. I am trained/certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Managing and Adapting Practice, The Nurturing Parenting Program, Seeking Safety and Child and Parent Psychotherapy.
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Teri Diette-Nelson

LMFT, 16 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Solution oriented
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+5
As a licensed psychotherapist with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Vanguard University, I have the training and expertise needed to guide you through difficult times and help you discover your authentic self. My passion for mental health is driven by a strong desire to support others in leading fulfilling lives and reaching their highest potential. Earning my Master's degree equipped me with the essential knowledge and skills to facilitate positive change. My therapeutic approach focuses on providing tools and techniques to help you cope with anxiety and depression, foster positive transformations, and uncover the happiness you seek in life. I use methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based strategies, Solution-Focused techniques, and Positive Psychology to tailor treatment to your specific needs.
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Michael Chavez

LCSW, 12 years of experience

Authentic
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Chronic Illness
Substance Misuse
+2
Hello, my name is Michael Chavez, LCSW, and I provide individual therapy to adults facing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, work related stress, and relationship issues. I understand how tough life can get. Before I became a therapist, I went through my own challenges — unhoused, unemployed, and struggling with substance use. Getting sober and working my way through college wasn’t easy, but it shaped the way I show up for others now: with understanding, patience, and zero judgment.
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Cindy Trujillo

LCSW, 11 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
+7
Starting therapy can feel like a big step my approach is all about making the process feel comfortable, supportive, and down-to-earth—like a real conversation, not a clinical checklist. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, going through a big life change, or just feeling stuck, we’ll figure things out together at your pace. I bring a warm, relaxed, and non-judgmental energy to every session, and my goal is to create a space where you can be your full self—laugh, cry, vent, reflect, explore… whatever you need, it's all welcome. I've had the privilege of working with kids, teens, and adults, and I understand that each stage of life comes with its own ups, downs, and curveballs. No matter where you are on your journey, we’ll start there—no pressure, no pretense. Just real talk and real support.
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Jamila Leander

LCSW, 10 years of experience

Empowering
Solution oriented
Challenging

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
"Vulnerability is not a sign of weakness. It's a sign of strength, resilience and compassion for oneself." Greetings, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my Masters from California State University San Bernardino and have been practicing for over 5 years. I enjoy helping individuals unlock strengths and maximize living their life to its full potential. There is no one size fits all, I incorporate therapeutic methods tailored to meet your unique goals.
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Darren Blatt

LMFT, 20 years of experience

Open-minded
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Family Conflict
Mood Disorders
Suicidal Ideation
Do you feel like you are going through life missing a part of yourself? Despite having gone through all the motions of growing up, you have somehow missed the part of finding fulfillment and meaning? I'm here to help you work through all of the things that get in your way of finding your identity and true connection. Whether it is hidden by anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, disordered eating, or relationship difficulties- we can work through it together in order find a sense of empowerment and peace within yourself, your relationships, and your life. I specialize in the treatment of developmental trauma, chronic trauma, and PTSD, as well as co-occurring disorders, including anxiety, depression, other mood disorders and high functioning autism spectrum disorder. I have experience working with clients in multiple levels of care including residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient treatment as well as outpatient private practice. My areas of specialty and expertise are in working with Children, Adolescents and Young Adults. I have extensive experience in crisis intervention, suicide prevention, severe trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, family conflict and High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder. I have provided support for clients in a variety of settings, including residential treatment, community-based services, intensive in-home services, school-based services as well as private practice.
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Manuel Leiva

LMFT, 14 years of experience

Direct
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Many people experience anxiety, depression, and many other emotional struggles. Often people feel there is no one they can trust and no one who can understand them. The impact of this emotional suffering can make daily life painful. It can put strain on relationships with family, friends, and peers. I specialize in working with people on an individual basis and have found that there are similar challenges that we all face while trying to navigate through our daily lives.
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Holly Merrill

LMFT, 10 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Solution oriented
Open-minded
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+3
Hello! Are you struggling with anxiety or feelings of depression? As a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I can help guide you through these uncomfortable feelings and support you in reaching your mental health goals. My goal is to guide you to develop tools and insights to help you navigate life's challenges and lead your most fulfilling life.
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Frequently asked questions

Why filter by California rather than a city like LA?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in the state. 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.

Will my therapist take Optum?

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.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on a specific issue?

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.

What are the "Clients say I’m" badges?

Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

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.

What to expect during your first session?

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.