Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 765 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: 4/16/2026

Often rebooked

Authentic
Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

Addiction
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+9
My therapeutic style is grounded in a holistic and integrative framework, which empowers me to provide personalized care that aligns with each client's distinct situation and clinical needs. I am committed to cultivating a safe and nurturing space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. As I walk alongside clients on their path to healing, I remain flexible and responsive, adjusting my approach to support their growth and development at every stage.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Depression
+10
Hello! I'm Will, a dedicated therapist with seven enriching years of experience in the field of mental health. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with diverse individuals, helping them navigate through challenges and achieve personal growth. I am currently pursuing my doctorate in clinical psychology, a journey that further fuels my passion for understanding the complexities of the human mind. My therapeutic approach is firmly anchored in compassion and evidence-based practices, ensuring that the support I provide is both empathetic and practical. I strive to create a safe and nurturing environment where my clients can explore their thoughts and feelings openly. Guided by a Catholic worldview, I place a strong emphasis on the inherent dignity of every individual, believing that everyone deserves respect and understanding in their healing journey. I am deeply committed to facilitating transformative experiences that empower clients to realize their potential and lead fulfilling lives.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+5
If you’re here, you’re likely carrying more than you show. I specialize in helping adolescents and adults who feel anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, or weighed down by life’s transitions—including postpartum shifts, depression, relationship pain, and betrayal trauma. My approach is warm, grounded, and real. I focus on creating a space where you can finally exhale, process what’s been heavy, and reconnect to your own strength and clarity. With experience in hospitals, criminal justice settings, and outpatient clinics, I’ve supported people through some of the hardest chapters of their lives. Those experiences shaped the therapist I am today—one who listens deeply, meets you where you are, and walks beside you as you rebuild, heal, and move forward with confidence.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
LGBTQ
Trauma and PTSD
+2
As a compassionate and affirming therapist, I strive to create a warm, accepting space where clients feel seen, valued, and empowered in their unique identities. My practice is deeply rooted in trans-affirming and LGBT-inclusive care, ensuring that individuals from all walks of life are met with respect, validation, and understanding. Grounded in anti-oppressive principles and a strong commitment to social justice, I work collaboratively with clients to navigate life’s challenges while honoring their lived experiences. I believe that healing is not only personal but also deeply connected to the broader systems in which we live. My approach fosters self-compassion, resilience, and empowerment, helping clients cultivate meaningful change in both their inner worlds and their communities. Whether you are exploring your identity, seeking support for life’s transitions, or working through personal struggles, I am here to walk alongside you with warmth, authenticity, and unwavering support.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Men's Issues
Self Esteem
+6
I help adults who look like they’re holding it together on the outside, but feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in the same relationship patterns on the inside. We’ll work on stress management, emotional regulation, communication, and the deeper “why” behind your reactions—so you feel more grounded, confident, and consistent in daily life. My style is warm, structured, and down-to-earth. You don’t need perfect words—just a willingness to show up. I use CBT/DBT/ACT tools for practical change, and I can integrate deeper work (Brainspotting/IFS) when it’s a good fit. I also create a dedicated space for men—especially men of color—who want to explore masculinity, culture, identity, and relationships without judgment.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Fertility & Reproduction Issues
Perinatal Mental Health
Postpartum
+3
Many of the people I work with are navigating postpartum anxiety, intrusive thoughts after having a baby, or the emotional stress of fertility treatment. These experiences can feel overwhelming and isolating, even when everything looks “fine” from the outside. I’m Dr. Saira Jhutty, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in reproductive mental health, including postpartum anxiety, intrusive thoughts after having a baby, and the emotional challenges of fertility treatment. I work with individuals and couples navigating infertility, pregnancy after loss, third-party reproduction, and the complex transition into parenthood. My approach integrates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with a strong focus on self-compassion and values-based living. Rather than trying to “fix” difficult emotions, we work together to understand them and find ways to move forward that feel sustainable — especially during times when life feels uncertain or overwhelming. My style is warm, collaborative, and grounded. Many of the people I work with feel exhausted, anxious, or unlike themselves after a baby or during fertility treatment. Therapy can be a space where you slow down, make sense of what you're experiencing, and begin to feel more like yourself again. Whether you’re navigating postpartum anxiety or depression, identity shifts after becoming a parent, pregnancy after infertility, or the emotional weight of fertility decisions, you don’t have to carry it alone.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Postpartum
Women's Issues
Anxiety
+3
I specialize in helping expectant and new parents adapt and thrive in their new roles. The transition into parenthood is one of the most profound life changes, and it can come with emotional and psychological challenges. I believe that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Whether you're dealing with overwhelming emotions, struggling to adjust to postpartum life, you don’t have to face it alone. I am here for you. Therapy is different for every person and I work to tailor my treatment specifically to your needs and personality in order to help you in the best possible way. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience working with people to enhance their lives through developing new skills and tools to tackle life's challenges.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+10
Hi, I’m Leah Yeshnik, LMFT. I specialize in supporting adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. My approach is honest, direct, and grounded in presence. I listen deeply, reflect thoughtfully, and bring compassion, respect, consistency, humor, and accountability into the therapeutic space. My work is especially attuned to the emotional and relational experiences of women. I incorporate a range of modalities to meet different learning styles and needs, including expressive arts, journaling, self-reflection, skill building, and somatic practices
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented
Empowering

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
Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Grief
Life Transitions
Older Adults
+10
PLEASE NOTE: I specialize in Gerontology. I believe in empowering older adults by fostering independence, resilience and sense of identity. Aging is a journey that should be met with dignity, respect, and opportunities for growth. By actively listening, providing tailored support, and encouraging self-determination, I can help older adults maintain their autonomy and confidence. Resilience is nurtured through meaningful connections, purposeful activities, and a focus on strengths rather than limitations. I am committed to honoring an individual's experiences, celebrating their uniqueness, and creating environments where people feel valued and capable. I challenge stereotypes about aging and promote a vision of later life filled with possibility and fulfillment.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+2
When life's challenges - work, relationships, money troubles, illness or injury become too much to manage, or when the pain of the past pops up when you least expect it to disrupt sleep, or when daily stressors build up and make it hard to cope, that's when more than a friendly ear is needed. That's when a professional can help you heal the compounding effects of life experiences. If you are seeking long-term relief from anxiety, trauma, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, grief or loss, I will help you heal those emotional injuries that compound over a lifetime and make life lose its meaning. And I will empower you to heal the emotional pain that is preventing you from living your best life.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+8
Hello! It is truly a pleasure to have the possibility of working with you. Anxiety, trauma, and depression can make us feel lost and the road through is muddy and overwhelming. This is why having a guide that can understand you and meet you where you are, is incredibly important. It is my goal to help you navigate this voyage as well as hold and work through complex emotions as they fight with each other while at the same time cohabitating in the same space. I look forward to taking those first steps with you and take this journey together.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+2
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California and hold a Master of Social Work degree from the University at Albany, State University of New York . I have an extensive background in community and school-based mental health and over the course of my career have served adults, adolescents and families with diverse backgrounds and life experiences in a variety of settings. I believe very strongly in each person’s capacity for growth and change and strive to find ways to help people live with greater meaning, satisfaction, and choice.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
+8
Hello. my name is Diane Gibbs and i have been a licensed clinical social worker since 2008. I am Rogerian(carl rogers) focused. I am clt centered, start where the client is, creating a safe and nonjudgmental environment where a client feels safe to explore. any one of us can experience disturbance of mood, thought, or emotion; simply because we are human. I like to use a strengths based approach, empowering the clt to use their strengths in overcoming obstacles. I have used various modality interventions including CBT DBT Exposure Therapy, IFS, Strengths based, trauma focused, guided imagery, meditation, narrative, and visualization. I have worked with 5 yo to 80+ yr old. I feel blessed when clients open their life up to me and honor the oath to privacy and client needs. Let’s have a 15 minute meeting and see if we are a fit :)
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
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.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Open-minded

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
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Depression
Self Esteem
Women's Issues
+3
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Fontana, CA. I graduated with a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University in Malibu in 2020. I work with various age groups to help them find healing, manage their symptoms, and achieve their treatment goals- and I am so honored to be part of that process with my clients.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Direct
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
LGBTQ
Substance Misuse
+8
I’m Dr. Andy Davis, a licensed psychologist with 18 years of experience in the mental health field. Thirteen of those years were spent serving in the U.S. Air Force, where I had the privilege of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. My clinical focus includes depression, anxiety, PTSD, stress, grief, personality disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, and concerns related to sex and pornography addiction. As a sex-positive therapist, I provide a safe and affirming environment for clients to explore sensitive areas of their lives without fear of judgment. My therapeutic style is both solutions-focused and rooted in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). I believe therapy should be proactive and goal-driven, helping clients not only gain insight but also develop strategies for change. Clients often describe me as direct and honest, while also compassionate and collaborative—I strive to give practical feedback and advice that can be applied both in and outside of sessions. I especially enjoy working with veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and young adults. These groups often face unique challenges, and I consider it an honor to walk alongside them as they navigate life’s complexities. In addition to my clinical work, I have an extensive background in clinical research. While serving in the Air Force, I conducted sleep studies and developed modern treatment approaches for PTSD and traumatic brain injuries. This research continues to inform my practice, and I place strong emphasis on developing healthy routines, quality sleep schedules, and consistent self-care as foundations for mental health. I often work with clients to build structure into daily life, recognizing these habits play a powerful role in resilience and long-term well-being. Above all, my goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where clients feel empowered to face challenges, discover new perspectives, and build lasting resilience.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Open-Minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Eating Disorders
Life Transitions
+7
Jazmin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides virtual therapy for clients across California. She works with teens and young adults navigating anxiety, self-esteem challenges, and eating disorders. Using a warm, client-centered approach grounded in CBT and ACT, she helps clients reduce negative self-talk, build practical coping skills, and move toward greater self-acceptance. Jazmin creates an inclusive space where everyone feels supported on their journey toward lasting resilience. Through extensive training and clinical experience, she integrates evidence-based therapy approaches to support clients with a wide range of mental health concerns. You can learn more at JazminAlarconTherapy.com
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Authentic
Direct

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
Authentic
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
+10
Hi, I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California for 20 years and I hold a doctorate degree in the Philosophy of Counseling. I am in my second marriage for 30 years now, after my 24-year first marriage failed. We have seven children between the two of us, 31 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. I have had good success counseling couples who have given up on their relationship, especially those who have experienced infidelity. I don't counsel children until they are 18. I enjoy helping people understand how they became the way they are and therefore find ways to leave dysfunction behind.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Direct
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
LGBTQ
Men's Issues
+3
I believe that life is a beautiful thing, but at times, hurdles and trials can obscure us from seeing that vision. Do mornings greet you with anxiety or sadness? Have you noticed that your motivation within you has dwindled? Hi, I'm Ben, and my passion is collaborating with individuals like you to help them rediscover their very best selves. I thrive on connecting with my clients right where they are. Whether you're wrestling with depression, grappling with anxiety, or simply feeling adrift, I invite you to take the initial step and schedule an appointment with me! We will work together to chart a new course to rekindle your appreciation for the beauty surrounding us in life. My primary approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which empowers you to unravel negative behavior patterns, allowing you to break free from thoughts and actions that might be constraining your happiness.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Open-minded

Specialties

Depression
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
+8
I’m passionate about helping clients navigate life’s challenges and build emotional well-being. I work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, relationship concerns, and major life transitions. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to each person’s unique needs, creating a safe space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered. In therapy, I focus on helping clients gain clarity, increase self-awareness, and develop practical strategies to cope with life’s difficulties. Together, we explore patterns that may be holding you back, identify strengths you can build on, and create tools that support meaningful and lasting change. I particularly enjoy supporting clients through periods of transition, such as career changes, relationship shifts, or navigating uncertainty, as well as helping those seeking to reduce stress, improve self-confidence, and achieve a greater sense of balance in their lives. My goal is to create a warm, nonjudgmental environment where you feel comfortable sharing openly and exploring your thoughts and emotions. I aim to partner with you in a way that fosters insight, resilience, and personal growth so that you can move forward with confidence and purpose. Whether you’re struggling with persistent feelings of sadness or anxiety, feeling stuck, or simply want a supportive space to reflect and grow, therapy can provide clarity, guidance, and tools to help you thrive. I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward understanding, healing, and personal growth.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

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
Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Are you a woman or man in your 30s or 40s feeling overwhelmed by work, parenting, or life changes? I am a psychotherapist who helps women navigate midlife transitions, manage anxiety, and reclaim confidence and balance. Having personally experienced the challenges of motherhood, demanding career, and divorce, I bring both professional expertise and lived experience to our work together. I integrate EMDR to process past experiences and reduce emotional distress, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) to guide you toward a meaningful life, and values-based strategies to clarify what truly matters to you. I also use the Enneagram as a tool for self-awareness and understanding relational patterns. Together, we’ll develop practical strategies for stress management, self-discovery, and creating the life you truly want—whether that means thriving in your career, strengthening relationships, or finding more peace in your everyday life.
VirtualAvailable
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 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.

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.

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 happens during the first therapy 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.