Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 747 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: 11/21/2025

Lucy Meza

LMFT, 8 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Trauma and PTSD
+7
My name is Lucy M. Meza, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over eight years of experience providing mental health services. I began my career working in outpatient settings within nonprofit community programs, where I supported individuals and families navigating a wide range of emotional and relational challenges. This foundation has deeply shaped my commitment to accessible, compassionate, and culturally responsive care. I work with children, adolescents, families, individuals, and couples, offering therapy in both English and Spanish to ensure that clients from diverse backgrounds—especially within the Latinx community—feel seen, heard, and understood. My approach blends Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with spiritual reflections, supporting clients in reconnecting with their inner higher Self, discovering how to practice self-love, and building healthy, meaningful relationships. I specialize in helping clients address concerns such as trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, communication difficulties, behavioral challenges, and relationship issues. Whether I’m working with a child, a couple, or an entire family, my goal is to create a warm, safe, and culturally sensitive space where healing feels possible and growth feels natural. I approach therapy through a lens of compassion, spirituality, and self-love—honoring each person’s story and inner wisdom. I believe that true healing happens when we reconnect with ourselves, our roots, and the people we love. To meet the needs of today’s busy families, I offer both flexible telehealth and in-person sessions in a welcoming environment. Whether you’re seeking guidance for your child, hoping to strengthen your sense of self-worth, or longing to restore peace and connection within your relationships, I am here to walk beside you with understanding, faith, and encouragement on your journey toward healing and empowerment.
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Maria Genter Hester

LMFT, 25 years of experience

Solution oriented
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Post Partum
Women's Issues
+1
Hello, my name is Maria Genter Hester I am a licensed marriage family therapist they have been in private practice on and off for about 20 years. I love working with families and teens I have a specialty in postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, I also have training in dealing with perinatal loss, abortion, miscarriage and grief. I love helping people who are interested in using their faith background to further their healing and achieve the life that they want. Most of my training has been in cognitive behavioral therapy and family systems. I earned my Masters in Counseling Psychology at the University of San Francisco, I reside in San Diego. I love the outdoors, hiking beach, art, cooking, and activities with my family and friends.
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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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Megan Kalili

LMFT, 4 years of experience

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Family Conflict
+7
I’m Megan, an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Los Angeles, specializing in helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, relational challenges, and major life transitions. My approach is warm, supportive, and solution-oriented, integrating CBT, Mindfulness Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) to empower clients in overcoming obstacles and building fulfilling lives. Whether working with children through play-based techniques or adults seeking clarity and emotional balance, I create a safe space for self-exploration, growth, and lasting change.
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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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Dommonique Bruno

LCSW, 12 years of experience

Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+4
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my Master of Social Work degree from California State University of San Bernardino and have been practicing for over 13 years. I help adults ranging from young adults to the elderly, that are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or life transitions, to improve their quality of life and to become the best versions of themselves.
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Michelle Kurtz

LCSW, 20 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Solution oriented
Holistic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+6
Hello, I'm a licensed professional therapist practicing in California and Virginia since 2003. I have such respect and admiration for my clients because seeking therapy is very courageous. My goal for your therapy journey is to develop a relationship where you can feel trust so that you can become your authentic self. My therapeutic style is very eclectic and versatile. I want to provide a warm environment for you to feel better and grow. I specialize in treating you as a person and starting in a place where you are comfortable while adjusting to your needs as we move forward. I have expertise in treating depression/anxiety disorders, grief/loss, infertility, trauma, and relationship conflicts.
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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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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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Rachel Fishman

LCSW, 13 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Intelligent
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Phobias
+9
I understand that opening up about your life and its challenges can feel uncomfortable. That's why I am committed to providing a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can feel truly heard and understood. My passion is to partner with you on your healing journey. Together, we will gently explore what's holding you back and identify the most effective paths toward healing and personal growth. I'm dedicated to applying evidence-based practices to ensure the most effective support for you.
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Lena Payne

LCSW, 20 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Grief
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
+8
Hello. I'm a LCSW in California who has been practicing psychotherapy for 20 years. I help adults who are struggling in relationships or who are overcoming the effects of past relationships. I really enjoy working with women experiencing reproductive changes such as perinatal, perimenopause, and menopausal transitions. I have experience as a professor in social work teaching classes on treating trauma and working with military and veterans. I also train new psychotherapist to help them develop skills which help me continue to learn and grow.
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Cintia Ctibor

LMFT, 8 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+3
Sometimes, the most profound connections are formed when someone truly listens.I’m Cintia, here not just to hear, but to deeply understand you. In a world where trauma and anxiety often drown out our inner voices, I know that beneath the spoken words, lies a heart’s true narrative. What a degree in Clinical Psychology and a seven-year journey as a therapist has allowed me to is delve deep into the realms of trauma, anxiety, and depression. While these are my primary focuses, I also bring profound insights into PTSD, intricate family dynamics, relationship challenges, and concerns faced by the LGBTQ community.
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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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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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Jessica Anorve

LMFT, 5 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Empowering
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
+6
Hi! I am a licensed therapist in the state of CA and ID. I received my Masters from the University of Phoenix and have been practicing for 5 years. I have experience helping individuals overcome challenges and achieve personal growth. I have a strong background in providing effective therapeutic interventions, and I am committed to facilitating positive change and promoting mental well-being. My approach to therapy is client-centered, meaning that I prioritize building a trusting and collaborative relationship with you. I believe in meeting you where you are in your journey and tailoring treatment plans to best support your unique needs and goals. By creating a safe and non-judgmental space, I empower you to explore your emotions, gain insight, and develop the skills necessary to navigate life's complexities.
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Maria Baldasseroni

LMFT, 8 years of experience

Authentic
Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
+6
Hello there, welcome to my page! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I I have a Master in Clinical Counseling Psychology with emphasis in Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute in California where I am based. I’m a dedicated psychotherapist committed to supporting individuals on their journey towards mental and emotional wellness. With 8 years of experience in this practice. I’ve had the great privilege of helping clients navigate through life’s challenges, fostering resilience, and facilitating positive transformations. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, active listening, and creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I specialize in anxiety, relationships, life transitions and trauma, using evidence-based techniques tailored to each individual’s unique needs. I believe in the power of collaboration, working alongside my clients to identify strengths and empower them to achieve their personal goals. Whether you’re facing difficulties, seeking personal growth, or aiming to improve your overall well-being, I’m here to provide compassionate support and guidance throughout your therapeutic journey.
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Steven Nelson

LMFT, 9 years of experience

Empowering
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hello, My name is Steven Nelson. I'm a licensed Marital and Family Therapist for 8 years. I always find it to be an honor to help others find their solutions and journey. There can always be a positive aspect to a struggle or an unfortunate situation. "If you seek, you will find solutions." At times we just need that support to help see it. In addition to my Psychological Therapy license, I hold specialties certifications in Drug and Alcohol addiction, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Sex Addiction, Trauma and Domestic Violence prevention.
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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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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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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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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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Karina Weeks

LPCC, 10 years of experience

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 people 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!
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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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Victor Washington

LCSW, 8 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Intelligent
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
+6
I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker in California with a demonstrated ability to develop rapport with people from various backgrounds. As a social worker, I have had the opportunity to work in various settings from medical and psychiatric hospitals, community mental health agencies and the criminal justice system (juveniles and adults). I have also worked with individuals challenged by addiction. Through the use of interpersonal dynamics, I can support individuals in accessing various psychological parts of themselves while focusing on the past, present and future.
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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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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.