Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 512 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: 1/9/2026

Rated 4.7 stars out of 511 ratings
Rated 4.7 stars out of 511 ratings
Open-minded
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Spirituality
+8
I am a clinician interested in understanding the human experience and empowering the client to remember their wholeness, intelligence, and goodness. I strive to create opportunities for the client to relax and open up to the joys in life. I look to find ways to connect the client back to themselves, to have a fuller, more honest, authentic and compassionate relationship with themselves and the world.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 56 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 56 ratings
Intelligent
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Hi, my name is Wisdom and I am a LCSW. I have 7+s years as a therapist and became licensed in 2023. I received my undergraduate degree in 2013 from UCSB and my MSW in 2018 from CSUSM. I am certified in (C-DBT) , Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I believe that trauma, that is unprocessed and/or not fully integrated, can become stored in our bodies and lead to somatic, body, and/or emotional "tor-mentors" (Schwartz, 2023). As such, I utilize Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM), such as massage therapy, acupuncture, meditation, and yoga, in therapy sessions and/or bridge outside connections to these resources. I am an Internal Family Systems (IFS) informed clinician and apply parts work in sessions that helps illuminate segments of ourself that holds onto certain burdens. Navigating through life can be quite complicated, though whether you choose to Accept this or not can allow room for Change or continued suffering.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.9 stars out of 57 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 57 ratings

Frequently rebooked

Empowering
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Men's Issues
+5
For over 10 years, my work spanned from court advocacy to case management for immigrant and underserved communities in Los Angeles. I have worked in community mental health providing culturally responsive therapeutic services including harm reduction and crisis counseling. Rooted in social justice, my work as a therapist is an extension of my passion in helping others empower themselves and assist in their healing journey.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 510 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 510 ratings

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Autism
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+10
My name is Geno Creese, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Drama Therapist (#942) accepting virtual clients in California. Regardless of presenting issues, I like to meet my clients where they are at; whether you are new to mental health support or are a seasoned veteran there is space for you here. We will work to identify what is getting in the way of you meeting your goals and address these challenges together. That said, we will work together each session with whatever you bring to the room. As a therapist I work from an attachment based lens and use elements of psychodynamic theory, solution focused therapy, CBT, Narrative Style Interventions, and a host of Drama Therapy Interventions to support my clients.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.9 stars out of 544 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 544 ratings
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Grief
+10
Hello, I am Elizabeth Kelly, a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in working with individual adult clients aged 18 and older. If you are seeking help with working through grief, loss, difficult changes, anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, aging challenges or any other issues that may be hard to overcome alone, I am here to help you through. I follow a client-centered approach, meaning that I believe that you have the internal strength and ability to grow. Together, we will create goals to best serve you. I will listen to your concerns and provide coping skills and resources to help you through your difficult situations.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.8 stars out of 54 ratings
Rated 4.8 stars out of 54 ratings
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
+4
Everyone deserves to live a meaningful life—one filled with purpose, fulfilling relationships, personal growth, and a sense of balance. At times, however, we all need support and guidance to move forward. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over seven years of experience helping individuals across the lifespan navigate emotional and psychological challenges. In my practice, I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, mood instability, anger, relationship difficulties, divorce, family conflict, and work-related stress. My goal is to help clients reduce distress, strengthen insight, and build the skills needed to create lasting and positive change. My counseling style is warm, collaborative, and interactive. I place a strong emphasis on treating each person with respect, sensitivity, dignity, and compassion. I draw from a variety of evidence-based and insight-oriented approaches, including mindfulness-based practices, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), schema therapy, psychodynamic, humanistic, and rational-emotive interventions. Treatment is always tailored to your unique needs, goals, and life circumstances. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and support you on your path toward growth and well-being.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.4 stars out of 519 ratings
Rated 4.4 stars out of 519 ratings
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+7
If you're struggling with stressors, attempting to heal from past traumas, facing anxiety in certain areas of life, or are feeling down I can help you navigate these difficulties. I specialize in anxiety and trauma as well as female and maternal mental health. I have a very person centered approach; meaning that I try to understand fully what brings you in and where you are coming from. Once we have a solid foundation of understanding I assist in evaluating beliefs and processes that keep people stuck, I provide practical skills for relief, and break down barriers to creating and maintaining new habits. I know it can feel overwhelming as you decide who to trust with these needs, your comfort, safety and needs are my main concern. I'll meet you where you are to build a trusting relationship with you and once that is in place you will have a solid foundation for then trusting the process.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 524 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 524 ratings

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+9
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) originally from just outside of New York City and currently live in San Diego. Working to support the mental health of others is truly my greatest honor. We are often programmed by our previous experiences, culture, and past trauma to believe a false narrative about ourselves. Utilizing the therapeutic alliance, I help clients to resolve negative, false, or limiting beliefs that may be hindering their ability to step into their true identities. We do not have to continue to live out the script that we inherited or feel the need to live in the shadows. Instead, we can live with intension, purpose, and a sense of gratitude.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 530 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 530 ratings
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Life Transitions
Peer Relationships
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Welcome! My name's Becca. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for helping others. I’m dedicated to creating a strong therapeutic alliance, founded in shared goals for a life worth living. I’ll provide a warm, supportive, safe, and professional space for you to feel comfortable delving into difficult past and present situations, in order to pave a new, happier, and healthier way forward. Making the decision to start therapy can bring up a mix of emotions. You have reached a point where you are ready to take control of your life and create meaningful change. For this, I greatly applaud your courage! While the work may be challenging at times, I am a firm believer that “The only way out is through.” And oh, will it be worth it when you break through. In working together, it is my ambition that you (re)gain a sense of empowerment in your life. If this is what you’re looking for, then let’s get started. Inspired by the breakthrough moments I witness in my sessions everyday, I am proud to have established the private practice, Breakthrough Counseling! If you're interested in learning more, feel free to check out my website: mybreakthroughcounseling.com
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 514 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 514 ratings
Warm
Humorous

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience providing psychotherapy to adolescents and adults across a range of emotional and behavioral concerns. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is supportive, respectful, and non-judgmental, where clients feel safe to explore their experiences openly. I believe that emotional distress is a natural response to life’s challenges and that, with appropriate support, individuals can develop insight, resilience, and effective coping strategies. I am committed to working collaboratively with clients from diverse backgrounds and identities, including LGBTQIA+ and gender-diverse individuals, and I prioritize creating an affirming and inclusive therapeutic space.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 520 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 520 ratings

Frequently rebooked

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
+9
Hi, I'm glad you are here. My name is Alicia and I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in Southern California and working telehealth statewide. I am committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with compassion and clinical expertise. I provide a supportive and non-judgmental space, where clients can work through various mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 532 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 532 ratings
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+10
Hello, my name is Bryan Llorente, I am a licensed clinical social worker and have experience working in several clinical and therapeutic settings. I started my career at Advent Health Hospice Care, one of the largest non-profit hospital systems in the country. Through this position I gained experience in providing therapeutic counseling services to individuals and families who are going through major transitional period in their lives (receiving a terminal illness, death of loved one, living adjustments etc.) As a result I am well experienced in dealing with depression, anxiety, situational stress, loss of a loved one, grief, and am understanding of how medical issues can affect a person’s mental health. I have also worked for Orlando Health at the Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies covering the ED/Triage, antepartum and postpartum units of the hospital. This position gave me experience with providing crisis interventions and psychotherapeutic counseling to patient's who have a history of severe mental health issues, or who are actively experiencing medical emergencies, traumatic events, domestic violence, manic/depressive episodes, psychotic episodes, and suicidal ideations. In addition, I provided education on post partum depression and child care. In 2021 I began teaching classes as an Adjunct Professor for the University of Central Florida's College of Health Professions and Sciences. I have also worked for the National Suicide Prevention Line where I learned how to deal with a variety of mental health and emotional crisis situations over the phone. I feel well equipped to help my clients deal with a variety of issues, whether in person, or online. I take an objective and collaborative approach to understanding problems, and work with clients to create strategies to address problems head on so that clients learn the skills necessary to achieve their goals.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 523 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 523 ratings
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.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 530 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 530 ratings

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
+10
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 13 years of experience providing psychotherapy to children and their families at a community mental health agency, and psychotherapy in private practice to adults and adolescents. As a humanistic therapist, I maintain a positive approach to psychotherapy by focusing on strengths and positive attributes. I assist my clients with developing a stronger, healthier sense of self, and with making rational choices towards achieving their maximum potential.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.8 stars out of 567 ratings
Rated 4.8 stars out of 567 ratings

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Spirituality
+10
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Board Certified Registered Art Therapist. I received my Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Notre Dame de Namur University. Classes in the MFT program also met the requirements for the American Art therapy Association for art therapy. I am also a Christian and provide therapy from that perspective for those who want their faith to be a part of the therapy process. I believe our spiritual well-being and relationship with God can have a significant influence on all other areas of our lives including mental health. I have a holistic approach to therapy looking at how mental, physical, and spiritual health impact each other in both positive and negative ways. I have experience in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) supporting clients in gaining a healthier relationship with their thoughts and feelings. I have worked extensively with clients in coping with depression, stress and anxiety, as well as in processing grief, loss, and life transitions. I am passionate about making mental health services more readily available to those who need it and normalizing the need for them.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 561 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 561 ratings

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Empowering
Holistic

Specialties

Grief
Trauma and PTSD
Do you currently feel you are at full capacity with life and needs assistance with managing current struggles in family, relationships, past trauma, or grief? I assist teenagers and adults who have experienced trauma and/or grief that is currently affecting their work, school, family, relationships, burn out that can lead to manifesting in addiction, further anxiety, depression and stress. Together, we can identify what's not working and improve health and well being. I also integrate mindfulness/meditation, EMDR to help you regulate emotions and lower stress to work within your window of tolerance. Whether you're dealing with stress, trauma, relationship challenges, addiction, anxiety, depression I'm here to support you unconditionally and assist with guiding and providing unbiased support. Seeking therapy can feel intimidating, vulnerable and scary and not an easy choice, I am aware of that and will do everything on my end to make the process as comfortable as possible. A safe space is needed in the healing journey and therapy is the ideal place to make that progress. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with unconditional positive support, a person center approach and evidence based practices tools to make positive change. Take the first step towards self care and schedule an appointment today!
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 52 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 52 ratings
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

ADHD
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience providing treatment and care for vulnerable populations, including children and adults who require trauma-informed therapy, such as foster youth and individuals affected by domestic violence and/or interpersonal violence (IPV). My therapeutic approach utilizes attachment theory in combination with trauma-informed care, focusing on the development of skills for regulation, healthy communication, and boundaries.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.9 stars out of 543 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 543 ratings
Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
+2
Are you struggling with what's on your plate, whether you are doing "what you are supposed to be doing," or feeling like an imposter at times? Are you transitioning into a new phase, or ready to do something different? Are you feeling urgency to finally do the inner work so you can live in alignment with your innermost desires and values? If so, I look forward to connecting with you. <br> I can help you process and move through what’s holding you back right now from flourishing. Let’s work together to manage anxiety, low self esteem, depression, and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working, help you find more clarity, and figure out what will serve you. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you are making the right choice. Give yourself permission to take this time for yourself. You deserve a space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the challenges that have brought you here. Let's work together! I use a variety of therapy styles and tailor my approach to your needs. Mindfulness, connecting to creativity, and a culturally informed social-justice lens also inform my practice and are important to me. I often assign homework between sessions. These might look like exercises or activities to engage in, or prompts to consider and reflect upon. I want for you to feel heard, understood, and validated. At the same time, know that I will challenge you when it is appropriate, and encourage you to experiment with doing things differently than you may have done before. Relief and healing is possible, change and flourishing is possible, but not without effort on your part. Therapy is about getting the support you need, while learning ways to cope, recover, grow, and thrive.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.9 stars out of 514 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 514 ratings
Empowering
Authentic
Solution oriented

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
Rated 5.0 stars out of 58 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 58 ratings
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Coping Skills
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+5
Hi and welcome! My name is (Anna) Iris Raileanu Pincin and I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Southern California. I work with individuals on a variety of topics such as depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal issues etc. utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused- CBT, Psychodynamic etc. I'm excited to get to know you!
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.8 stars out of 551 ratings
Rated 4.8 stars out of 551 ratings
Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+6
I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. My approach is Holistic Therapy, focusing on the mind, body and soul. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 54 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 54 ratings
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Peer Relationships
+4
Congratulations! You have taken the first steps in the journey to your goal(s). I am extremely grateful you are considering me to partner up with. I consider my relationships as instrumental in learning who I am. The relationships that most speak to who I am include being a spouse, father, brother, son, colleague, and friend. My grandparents are deceased. Through these relationships I have learned a great deal.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 518 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 518 ratings
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Sometimes we all need a little extra support during tough times. Let me be that support for you. Therapy can be a very scary process for many people. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable environment for you and to provide you with the tools and resources needed to get through your day to day struggles. I strive to facilitate a space where clients can process shame, guilt, isolation, self-forgiveness and hopelessness. I am passionate about what I do. When you are ready to begin your journey and start your healing process, I would love the opportunity to walk along with you.
VirtualAvailable
No reviews yet
No reviews yet

New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who helps adults ages 18 to 65+ navigate anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationship stress, and emotional overwhelm. I provide a warm, supportive, culturally sensitive space where you can feel understood and empowered. My goal is to help you build insight, strengthen coping skills, heal past wounds, and create a more balanced and fulfilling life.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.6 stars out of 514 ratings
Rated 4.6 stars out of 514 ratings
Empowering
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Sex Therapy
I’m so happy you’re here! You’ve already taken the most difficult step to improve your life. Now it’s my turn to take your hand and help you through the next steps of your journey. My job is to empower women to reclaim their sexuality. By taking ownership of your body and your pleasure, you can refresh your zest for life. I have over 15 years of experience in mental health. I am a sex therapist who utilizes cognitive behavioral, narrative, and solution- focused techniques to enable you to take control of your mental well-being. Good mental health is not a luxury, it is an essential component of a healthy life. You have the power within you to change your mindset and become who you are meant to be. Let me help you learn to live and love authentically!
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 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.