Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 902 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: 8/29/2026

Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Peer Relationships
Trauma and PTSD
+3
Hello, I am an Asian-American female, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California and Nevada with many years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families providing mental health services in a community-based setting, intensive mental health setting, and private practice setting. I am here to provide support for whatever your needs may be and overcome any challenges in your life. I am licensed in California and Nevada. I DO NOT PROVIDE COUPLES THERAPY WORK ON GROW PLATFORM. Website: www.healingheartsmentalhealth.com Instagram: Ilovetherapy661
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Empowering
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
We all experience life's challenges, feel alone, stuck and unsure what to do sometimes. I understand, it can be scary, seeking professional help for personal issues. I also know, therapy can be deeply healing, when one can open up and take the first step towards mental well-being and self-love! My name is Janaelyn Mitchell, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that provides individual therapy and coaching.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
+8
Hello, I'm Nicole, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I have a passion for working with individuals in order to assist them in developing and utilizing the necessary coping skills to manage and thrive during difficult times, life transitions, and through needed change. My goals are to create a safe and supportive environment for all my clients, while they increase their level of self-understanding and self-awareness.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Authentic
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+4
I’m a licensed therapist who helps people reconnect with their emotions when they’ve spent years pushing them aside just to get through life. Many of the clients I work with are thoughtful, capable, and deeply caring, but feel disconnected, overwhelmed, or hard on themselves without fully understanding why. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in Emotion-Focused work, helping you slow down, understand what’s happening inside, and build a more compassionate relationship with yourself. Therapy with me isn’t about fixing you, it’s about helping you feel more like you again.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
+3
Welcome! If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or going through a life transition, you’re not alone. I offer a collaborative approach to therapy that moves beyond labels and one-size-fits-all solutions. Together, we’ll work toward understanding what’s happening, what you want to change, and what can help you move forward. I work with individuals, including young adults and women navigating different stages of life such as college, career changes, and parenthood. My approach is goal-oriented and draws from systemic, solution-focused, and problem-solving therapies, always taking your unique experiences, strengths, and goals into account. Please note: I am not currently accepting new couples.
Available

Often rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
Hi everyone! My name is Kristin (she/her)! As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I love what I do! This includes working with clients to reach their goals, reinforce their strengths and work towards inner healing. I strive to utilize reflective listening, empathetic understanding and compassion with my clients to provide a safe enough environment where they can feel comfortable sharing with me in our therapy sessions. I encompass modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, but work towards an individualized treatment approach as each client is different! My background includes working in outpatient, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient and correctional settings with clients who may identify with different multicultural backgrounds. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, relational issues or trauma symptoms. If you or your chosen family are ready to begin therapy, I am here to be a support and guide for you to work towards your growth!
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Authentic
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+6
As a Christian Therapist, I want to meet you where you are at. I want to listen and support you in gaining the insight and clarity you need to become unstuck in life. By working together, we can identify your strengths, overcome obstacles, and create a plan of action to help you achieve your goals. Minimizing symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and self-worth. I use a mix of therapy modalities to help you shed the narratives that no longer serve you. I DO NOT Serve couples on this platform.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+6
Hi, I’m Cassandra! I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University. I’ve had the opportunity to work in a variety of therapeutic settings including an inpatient psychiatric hospital treating a higher level of acuity, intensive outpatient program supporting teens and young adults, a residential facility working with incarcerated youth, and an outpatient program at a University counseling center.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+8
Greetings, I'm African American, California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy (144529). I possess a Master’s degree in Clinical Counsel from Point Loma Nazarene University and a Master’s degree in Public Health with a Specialization in Health Care Administration from National University. Additionally, I'm a disabled Veteran with seven years of active-duty service in the United States Navy. I've been performing therapy over the last 5 years as an Associated Registered Marriage and Family Therapist and an Associate Registered Professional Clinical Counsel prior to obtaining my full licensure as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I treat individuals from diverse backgrounds, with mild to moderate Mood Disorders such as depression, anxiety, and professional and personal stressors.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+4
I have been working with clients for many years. I am honored to work with you and to be with you through the process of self discovery and personal growth. It takes a tremendous amount of courage to push ourselves to grow. It can be difficult; however, it can also be a transformative experience that can provide great personal freedom.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
+7
Welcome! My name is Liz and I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience. Through a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strengths-Based approaches, and the option to incorporate Faith-Based counseling, I provide personalized support that empowers clients to discover their inner strength, heal from past wounds, and build a more fulfilling future. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, stress, or navigating life's challenges, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your path to healing and growth.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+4
Hello, I'm Elysa Thangchaipinyokul, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) serving adults throughout California. I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California and have over 15 years of experience helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, grief, and life transitions. Raised in a first-generation immigrant family, I understand how culture, family dynamics, and life experiences can shape emotional well-being and relationships. I strive to provide a supportive, culturally responsive environment where clients feel understood, challenged, and empowered to grow. My approach is warm, collaborative, and compassionate. I believe therapy should feel like a safe space where you can be heard, gain insight, and develop practical tools to create meaningful change. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) while tailoring treatment to your unique needs and goals. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready for change, I'm here to support you every step of the way.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Coping Skills
Family Conflict
Trauma and PTSD
+11
Hi there! I’m Ashley — a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California and Texas with nine years of experience helping people find healing and balance. I work with individuals and families who are navigating anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, family conflict, trauma, and life changes. My style is warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative. I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, respected, and truly understood. Together, we’ll explore your story, identify what’s holding you back, and build tools to help you move forward with confidence and self-compassion. Reaching out for therapy takes real courage, and I want you to know that you don’t have to go through this alone. I’m here to support and empower you as you create the life you want to live.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented
Direct
Specialties
Anxiety
Family Conflict
Life Transitions
+10
I run Unscripted Therapy, a practice focused on helping people break out of stuck patters. I work with individuals who are tired of having the same conversations and somehow ending up right back where they started. Whether it’s anxiety, stress, or relationship patterns that keep repeating, something isn’t working—and at this point, that’s pretty clear. My approach is direct, collaborative, and focused on actually changing what’s not working. I’m not going to just sit there nodding while you vent and then ask how that made you feel for the tenth time. We’ll figure out what’s keeping you stuck and start doing something different about it. Therapy with me is honest, practical, and yes—sometimes a little blunt. But it’s also real. If you’re looking for something that actually helps you move forward (not just talk about why you’re stuck), we’ll probably be a good fit.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Warm
Solution oriented
Specialties
Eating Disorders
Health/Medical Issues
Mood Disorders
+10
Hello! My name is Lori Sanderson, I am a licensed clinical therapist with a master's degree in clinical social work and a doctoral degree in health education and promotion. I enjoy looking at your thoughts and assumptions and how they contribute to uncomfortable emotions or feelings. How you think contributes to how you feel and how you behave. How you behave also contributes to how you feel. I will meet you where you are, but I will also help you develop a stronger and healthier version of you. We will do this together by helping you to explore the potential roots of your struggles and by giving you the tools to manage your emotional responses to life stressors, including tragedies, medical conditions, losses, criticism, etc. You deserve somewhere that you can share what is on your mind, be emotionally supported and validated, without fear of being judged. You deserve someone who can support you in becoming the best and most fulfilled version of you.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Solution oriented
Warm
Specialties
ADHD
Mood Disorders
Women's Issues
+4
I’m Alana, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Los Angeles. I work with young adults and women who are navigating major life transitions and feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves. Together, we identify and clear the patterns that get in the way of you showing up as the most grounded, confident version of yourself. I earned my undergraduate degree from Simmons University and my master’s degree from the University of Southern California. Over the past decade, I’ve worked across a wide range of settings—including school-based mental health programs within LAUSD and SMMUSD, Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, the Department of Children and Family Services, intensive outpatient and residential programs and most recently private practice. These experiences shaped a treatment approach that is thoughtful, flexible, and deeply attuned to the whole person. I believe meaningful therapy goes beyond symptom management and focuses on understanding the root causes of distress. My style is warm yet direct, grounded, and collaborative. Clients often share that they feel relief early on—because they finally feel understood. My role isn’t to “fix” you, but to help you reconnect with your strengths, build clarity and confidence, and feel more in control of your life again.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Fertility & Reproduction Issues
Life Transitions
+3
You're the one everyone calls first; composed outside, exhausted inside. I'm Dr. Dezetta Burnett, DSW, LCSW. My virtual California practice helps women and professionals work through anxiety, burnout, boundaries, and the waiting and grief of IVF. Sessions are direct and practical: you'll leave with a clear next step, not just insight. Midday weekday telehealth, built to fit inside your workday. If you are a new or current client who is preparing for IVF or IUI, currently undergoing treatment, or have recently completed treatment, and you do not see an available appointment within the timeframe you need, please schedule my next available appointment and send me a message. I will make every effort to accommodate you sooner if an opening becomes available.
VirtualAvailable
Intelligent
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Parenting
Trauma and PTSD
+14
Therapy is a collaborative relationship between therapist and client and it is my hope that ours is one that will help to empower you to enact the change you need to live the life you want. You may often have times in your life when you think everything is fine and then suddenly you feel angry, anxious or upset. Maybe you frequently struggle with feeling on edge, avoid talking about your feelings or negative experiences, feel stuck, find it hard to focus or concentrate, you get distracted easily or have difficulty relaxing. Any negative life experience, including from childhood, has the possibility of manifesting in any of the ways described. I endeavor to help you manage and process the feelings that may hold you back from being able to function and live your life the way you want. Together, we can figure out your obstacles and start your journey of healing. I work with teens, adults of all ages and parents with young children 3-7 and will incorporate family sessions as needed. I can usually see children 8-12 and couples, but prefer to see these clients in-person which is not possible currently, but hopefully in the near future. I often utilize mindfulness, somatic awareness, EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT or PCIT. Thinking about going to therapy can feel intimidating, but in doing so, you are taking a step on your journey to healing. I will offer you a safe, non-judgmental space to heal and meet you wherever you are in that journey.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQ
+6
I am an LGBTQ+ Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist. I am committed to offering kind, compassionate, culturally responsive, and practical support to all of my clients as they navigate the challenges of daily life. The goal is to help you achieve positive, healthy healing and lasting change through evidence-based practices and responsive and practical support.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Life Transitions
Spirituality
Trauma and PTSD
+6
What I’m most passionate about is helping people become free—free from old trauma, unhealthy conditioning, and patterns that no longer serve them. My work is about guiding you back to a clear, whole sense of self where you feel alive, engaged, and able to face life’s challenges with humor, spirit, and trust in yourself and your path. My therapy style is warm, grounded, and deeply exploratory. I help clients look beneath the surface of their struggles to uncover the root causes, bringing a holistic perspective and a practical toolbox to open new pathways toward clarity, understanding, and real change.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Career Counseling
Women's Issues
+3
Hi, I’m Kristen—Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 13 years of experience supporting high-achieving women and young professionals who are navigating burnout, career transitions, and the pressure to “hold it all together.” Many of my clients are driven, capable, and successful on paper—but internally feel overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected from the life they’ve built. They’re often at a turning point: ready to pivot careers, grow a business, or redefine what success actually means for them. My approach is collaborative, direct, and results-oriented. I combine evidence-based therapy with practical strategy to help you regulate stress, gain clarity, and make confident, aligned decisions—without spending years in therapy. This work is about more than insight; it’s about creating real momentum in your life and career. You can expect a space where you’re both supported and challenged—where you don’t have to perform, but you also won’t stay stuck. Together, we’ll move you out of burnout and into a more grounded, intentional way of living and working. For those who value faith as part of their healing, I also offer a nondenominational, faith-integrated approach rooted in compassion, purpose, and spiritual alignment. Whether you’re building something new, questioning your next move, or simply wanting to feel more like yourself again—this is a space to reset, realign, and move forward with clarity and confidence.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+8
Navigating life’s challenges can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. As your therapist, my mission is to create a safe, supportive, and collaborative space where you feel seen, heard, and understood. Together, we’ll work toward meaningful growth, healing, and the tools to navigate life with confidence and resilience. I’m Michelle, and I am so glad you’re taking this brave step on your wellness journey. Life is full of ups and downs, and sometimes we encounter obstacles that leave us feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or even disconnected from who we are. These challenges might stem from past trauma, ongoing stress, or life transitions that feel too big to manage alone. My passion is walking alongside my clients to help them reconnect with their strengths, rediscover their self-worth, and build a path toward a more fulfilling and joyful life.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Specialties
Life Transitions
Serious Mental Illness
Trauma and PTSD
+3
I enjoy working collaboratively to develop goals that are realistic, meaningful, and lead to positive change. I view therapy as a journey—one that helps you find steadier footing and supports you as you move along your unique path. Although much of my background has been in public service settings working with severe mental illness, acute crises, and trauma, I welcome concerns of any size. No problem is too small or too overwhelming to bring into therapy. I invite you to give the therapy process a chance to work for you! I have been in the behavioral health field for more than 30 years and have been licensed since 2012. I have a practical, down-to-Earth style with an open-minded, solution focused approach. There is likely no issue too complicated or difficult for me to work with. I like to establish a clear treatment path with attainable goals, making it easier for you. I encourage you to give the therapy process a chance to work for you. My goal is to offer steady support and thoughtful guidance as you discover a healing path that truly fits your life. While life can be challenging, you don’t have to navigate it alone—therapy can provide a safe space to find clarity, resilience, and hope.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic
Specialties
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
+1
Hello, I am Julie. We often are doing the best we can with what we are given, and I am here to help improve daily practices, routines, and maintain a life worth living. I help clients who struggle with Acute and Chronic Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety disorders, and Depressive disorders. I am trained in utilizing Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Reprocessing Desensitization (EMDR) therapy. Although, I have training in specific therapy modalities I take time to incorporate client goals and address the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness and art to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. I am excited to begin working with individuals in their journey to self-exploration and healing. "What we don't need in the midst of struggle is shame for being human." -Brene Brown
VirtualAvailable
Humorous
Authentic
Direct
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
+5
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from California, currently living in Florida. I received my undergraduate degree from William Jessup University, with a Master's Degree from Chapman University. I love people and I love to see relationships thrive. Research shows us that the quality of life that we have is more dependent on the quality of relationships than any other factor. I want you to have the most fulfilling and satisfying life as possible.
VirtualAvailable
Frequently asked questions

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in California. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across California from San Francisco to San Diego! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in California.

Yes! If you use Optum you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Optum you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs. Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center.Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.