Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 825 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: 10/31/2026

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Women's Issues
As a licensed clinical social worker, I bring a compassionate and client-centered approach to help adults navigate life's complexities. With expertise in mental health and a commitment to fostering positive change, I specialize in addressing issues such as stress, relationships, and self-discovery. My therapeutic toolkit includes evidence-based modalities tailored to your unique needs. In my practice, I incorporate animal-assisted therapy as a unique and supportive element of the healing process. Whether it’s the calming presence of a therapy dog during sessions or structured therapeutic activities involving animals, I’ve found that the bond between humans and animals can open up powerful pathways for trust, regulation, and emotional connection. Animals can offer a grounding presence for clients of all ages and backgrounds, and I love seeing the ways they help people feel more comfortable, understood, and at ease.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Direct
Warm
Specialties
Addiction
Anger Management
Child or Adolescent
+2
Hello I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing in the field of Social Work for over 30 years. I have worked with many different people from a variety of cultures. I have helped both children, adolescents and adults with various concerns from criminal behaviors, addiction, and serious mental illness. I have helped people change their behavior and thinking so they can reach their potential, achieve their goals and heal emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm
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
Intelligent
Authentic
Direct
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Starting therapy can feel empowering, confusing, or even intimidating—and it’s worth taking a moment to recognize the courage it takes to take this first step toward caring for your mental health. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where you can explore challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-care, and more. My goal is to help you strengthen communication and boundaries with yourself and others so that you can improve your quality of life and move toward the future you envision. Therapy is not just about overcoming obstacles—it’s also about personal growth. Together, we’ll clarify your goals and identify strategies to help you move toward them, whether that means change over the next month, six months, or a year. You’ll leave our sessions with practical insights and “next steps” you can put into action right away. I believe life’s purpose isn’t simply to be happy, but to find meaning—and within that meaning, joy emerges. While the journey isn’t always easy, it can be transformative. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Addictions Professional, Internationally Certified Drug Counselor, and Behavior Analyst. I take a strength-based approach, helping you use your unique abilities to address challenges. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to empower you in creating lasting change. Most importantly, I bring a relaxed, compassionate, and trustworthy presence, fostering a therapeutic relationship where you feel safe and supported.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Depression
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Hello, my name is Marisol Garcia. I am first generation Mexican-American who has worked in a community mental health clinic for the past 12 years. I've gone through my own life experiences, from which I've worked on overcoming through therapy. I believe this have given me the opportunity to empathize with clients, in combination with the knowledge I've gained through my education and training, in order to help you, the client.
VirtualAvailable
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+6
Dan Main, LMFT is a trauma informed psychotherapist providing Telehealth as well as in person services in Lafayette, CA. He is EMDR trained and utilizes other models such Internal Family Systems Therapy and Comprehensive Resource Model to help with symptoms of trauma including anxiety, depression, and more. He has been licensed since 2015 and worked in a variety of settings, most recently in community mental health, before engaging in private practice full time. Dan primarily provides individual psychotherapy for individuals age 14 and older. Dan has attended numerous silent meditation retreats over the past 15 years and often integrates mindfulness practices into his work with clients.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Specialties
Depression
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
+5
Hi! I am Jackie Maffett. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of California, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois, and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I received my Masters in Counseling Psychology from Northwestern University and have been in professional practice for 12 years. I have worked in a variety of settings, including private practice, community mental health centers, and schools. I have worked with a diverse range of clients including adults, teens, children, families, and couples. I consider myself an integrative therapist, meaning that I pull from different theoretical orientations based on my clients’ particular needs. I most often use cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques to help clients change intrusive thought patterns and develop healthy behaviors. I also use a psychodynamic focus to help my clients develop insight into the origin of their presenting problems. I am a solution-focused therapist and aim to foster practical change in my clients’ lives. I value my clients’ strengths and try to assist them in discovering those natural abilities to help bring about desired change. Finally, I whole-heartedly believe in the importance of creating a safe, trusting, and judgment-free space for my clients and I work to establish a warm, collaborative therapeutic relationship in which feedback is welcomed.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Humorous
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Men's Issues
+8
Welcome - I'm glad you're here. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker inspiring hope and facilitating change in the lives of individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. For over 18 years, I have provided psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families in California. A Los Angeles native, in 2007 I graduated with my Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California. My path to becoming a person-centered therapist has been shaped by a deep belief in the healing power of human connection. From early on, I was drawn to listening—to really hearing people—and witnessing the strength that can emerge when someone feels truly understood. That belief led me to social work, where I found a natural alignment with the values of empathy, dignity, and respect for each person’s lived experience. Through my training and clinical work, I was especially moved by the person-centered approach, which sees the client not as a problem to be fixed, but as a whole person with the capacity for growth, insight, and change. Embracing this approach has transformed the way I see the therapeutic relationship: not as a space where I give answers, but one where I hold space—with care, compassion, and authenticity—so clients can explore, heal, and move forward on their own terms. Over time, I’ve continued to grow both personally and professionally, integrating complementary tools like CBT and Solution-Focused Therapy while always staying grounded in the person-centered core. It’s a privilege to walk alongside my clients, to witness their resilience, and to be a steady presence as they reconnect with their strengths, values, and goals. Being a therapist isn’t just what I do—it’s part of who I am.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Addiction / Substance Use
Anger Management
Depression
+7
Hi there! Do you ever feel pulled in a million directions? Maybe you're struggling to finish tasks, navigate relationships, manage work or challenges related to unhealthy coping habits. Perhaps being kind to yourself feels like the hardest thing to do. Whatever you're facing, you're not alone, and you don't have to figure it out on your own. I'm here to support you with compassion, understanding, and without judgment. Over 14-year of therapy, my goal is to walk alongside you as you face life's challenges, discover your strengths, and move toward real change, healing, and a greater sense of well-being. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist with more than 14 years of experience, and I help people with depression, anxiety, and addiction. I'm speak three languages, English, Farsi, and Pashto. Traveling throughout Europe and living in Asia and South America have enriched my understanding of the many ways our backgrounds, experiences, and life stories shape who we are. These experiences have taught me to approach each person with an open heart, genuine curiosity, and compassion for their unique journey. I bring this understanding into every session, honoring each person’s story and meeting them where they are. Clients often describe me as thoughtful, caring, creative, and reliable, with a calm and steady presence. I take a relaxed approach to therapy, and you lead the way. In our first session, we'll start with a quick hello and get to know each other. Then we'll talk about a few of the challenges you're facing. I'll ask open questions and listen closely so I can understand what matters most to you. There is no pressure to have everything figured out. Sometimes it takes a few sessions to understand what is really going on, which is usual and perfectly okay.
VirtualAvailable
Intelligent
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Women's Issues
Coping Skills
+4
If you're in your 40s or 50s and feel like you no longer recognize yourself, you're not imagining it. Anxiety that seems to come out of nowhere, a shorter fuse, brain fog, poor sleep, low mood, and feeling like you've lost your spark are all common in perimenopause and menopause. Too often, women are told it's "just stress" or that they should push through. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of experience and a Certified Menopause Coach. I specialize in working with women in midlife who are navigating the emotional and mental health side of this transition, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD symptoms that often surface or intensify during these years. In our work together, you'll have a space where your experience is taken seriously. I'll help you understand what's happening, build practical tools for managing mood, stress, and focus, and reconnect with who you are and what you want from this next chapter. I draw on a range of evidence-based approaches and tailor them to you. Midlife can be more than something to get through. With the right support, it can be a time of clarity, confidence, and renewal. I'd be honored to help you thrive in it.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Humorous
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
+6
Do you feel stretched thin, stuck, or just plain worn out from trying to hold it all together? I'm Ange, and that's exactly who I work with. My style is pretty down to earth, some days we get into the deep stuff, other days we're laughing about how messy life can be. I work comfortably in Cantonese and Mandarin, though English is where I'm most at home.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Suicidal Ideation
+7
I am a compassionate and client-centered therapist dedicated to supporting teens, young adults, adults, and families as they navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in helping individuals struggling with anxiety, emotional regulation, trauma, and relationship dynamics, providing a safe and supportive space for growth. Using evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, attachment-based therapy, and trauma-informed care, I guide clients in building resilience, improving communication, and gaining confidence in themselves. My goal is to empower clients with the tools they need to create meaningful change and lead more fulfilling lives.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Intelligent
Specialties
Coping Skills
Peer Relationships
Women's Issues
+4
Hello, I'm Angie! I’m an LCSW based in California with several years of experience working with clients, including youth, adults, and families. I operate from the framework that it is frequently difficult to be a person, and we all benefit from non-judgmental spaces to navigate life's chaos. My approach is integrative, drawing from various modalities like MI, CBT, DBT, SFBT, EMDR and Narrative therapy. I tailor my interventions to each individual and their circumstances. I believe in psychoeducation and ensuring that every person in my care understands their diagnosis, symptoms, and the reasons behind therapeutic suggestions so they are empowered to make decisions with the information. Let’s talk about the things that are happening for you!
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Solution oriented
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Sexual Abuse
+1
Authentic Empowering Encouraging I am an experienced Bilingual/Bi Cultural Spanish fluent, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, raised in Los Angeles, CA. I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California (USC). I've been in practice 14 years. My passion is helping people facing depression, anxiety, grief, relationship struggles, and life changes. My goal and purpose are to help clients develop into the best version of themselves and to gain the skills to manage their daily lives with hope, happiness, purpose and determination. I utilize empathy, compassion and active listening skills to meet clients where they are at in their mental health journey.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
I’m so glad you’re here. My name is Sierra, and I am a California-based licensed Psychologist with over 10 years of clinical experience supporting adults as they navigate life's challenges. My passion is helping people not only understand themselves more deeply, but also make lasting positive changes. I take a holistic approach to therapy that supports the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. This often includes strategies such as nervous system education, mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), somatic healing, and when helpful, collaboration with integrative providers like nutritionists. I also draw from additional evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy, while paying close attention to how stress or trauma may show up in the body. In our work together, we’ll create a personalized plan that blends insight, practical tools, and meaningful action. My goal is to provide a space where you feel truly seen and supported, and where therapy becomes not just about coping with challenges, but about moving toward the life you most want to live.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
+3
I am originally from South Africa and have an innate ability to connect with people from different cultures. I am committed to providing a safe and trusting environment, which is the core foundation of my work with clients. ​I work with adults and teenagers who are dealing with depression anxiety, grief, hopelessness and other mental illnesses. I help clients experiencing panic attacks/anxiety using the application of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). ​As a cancer survivor, I understand all aspects of being a patient. I am passionate about helping clients cope with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. In addition to working at Grow Therapy, I run a private practice in Encino. I have also worked as the Clinical Director at A Home Within, an organization that connects foster children with therapists in private practice. Their motto: "One child, one therapist, for as long as it takes." My work at Safe Harbor, an Intensive Outpatient and Dual Diagnosis Facility was where I saw families and individuals and guided weekly teenage groups for self-harm. I completed my traineeship at Hillview Mental Health, an outpatient facility for clients representing a full spectrum of mental illnesses. I ran groups and worked with clients individually. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California State University, Northridge and a Masters in Psychology from Phillips Graduate University.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Direct
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+14
You are emotionally, mentally, and physically exhausted! You recognize there is a problem, but don't know how to solve it. You are caught in the cycle of overwhelm. If you continue down this road all you will find is powerlessness and hopelessness. You don't have to stay trapped. My focus is to empower you to take back your life & become the best version of yourself.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Intelligent
Warm
Specialties
ADHD
Child or Adolescent
Trauma and PTSD
+10
My name is Jacob Lapides and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California and I have been in this field for over 15 years. I am a Holistic therapist who likes to focus on healing an individual from all aspects including mind-body wellness. I bring an eclectic skill set of many different therapeutic approaches and orientations so that I can use different techniques to find the best tools and interventions to help and support whoever I am working with.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Solution oriented
Empowering
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
+10
I am not only a therapist but a real person. Everyone struggles with mood and thoughts and sometimes we all need help navigating the intensity of these experiences. I hope to be a guide for you as you walk through whatever challenges are keeping you from moving forward. This process will be challenging and will take work, however if you take away one thing from reading this, it is that you are not alone and there are people out there waiting to offer help.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Grief
Perinatal Mental Health
Trauma and PTSD
+10
With over twenty years of experience in the mental health field, I am a seasoned clinician versed in evidenced based practices tailored to your individual needs. I will work with you collaboratively to ensure not only symptom relief, but improvement in relationships, communication and your specific goals. I will focus on helping you find your path according to your unique story and goals while helping you learn new coping skills and gain insight along the way.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Holistic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Life Transitions
Men's Issues
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently eligible to see Telehealth clients in California and Florida. I have been practicing Holistic Psychotherapy in my private practice for 7 years specializing in Hypnotherapy and trauma resolution. I assist adults to navigate life transitions such as grief, heartbreak, career changes, healing from trauma or outdated versions of themselves, so they can feel more free and present in everyday life.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Grief
Life Transitions
Men's Issues
+7
My name is Jen Leone, Marriage and Family Therapist in practice for 14 years. I specialize in working with motivated professional adults who need support in relationships, grief, and life transitions. Habits, regret and trauma - all can interfere with living a fuller life and realizing potential. I guide and support those who are ready to get unstuck, moving towards clear rather than fear based-choices.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Specialties
Couples Counseling
Parenting
Sexual Abuse
+14
Hello there, my name is Jackie. I’d like to start by saying it brings me great joy that you are here making time for yourself! Allow me to ask, what brought you here today? Is it fears…traumas… distractions… hardships…loss… endless worries… striving for something meaningful? If you’re finding it hard to answer, “where do I go from here?,” then arriving at this thought is exactly where you need to be to make the decision to create your own path . If you are someone who has the courage to understand the impact of childhood experiences and the longstanding impact it has had on your present day self then I am the therapist for you. I invite discussions of traumas ranging from sexual abuse, neglect, parentification to name some and how these form shadows of fear that then differing parts of psyche learn how to adapt to. Let's bring these to light together in a way that shapes the ability to care for these unmet needs in order to show up better for yourself, your partner (in couple's counseling) and for your family (parenting). As you reach this crossroads I offer you tools to support you in bringing to light the barriers that prevent you from uncovering your full potential. I invite you to show up for yourself as you journey through the mountains and valley’s that are the wonders of your life.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
+8
Welcome! ¡Bienvenido! My name is Silvia and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of California. My mission is to create a positive, supportive space where you feel truly empowered. Therapy should feel like a meaningful conversation—one that helps you breathe a little easier and feel a little lighter each time we meet. I strive to offer an environment where you feel heard, supported, guided, and safe. Through a humanistic approach, I focus on making our time together feel valuable, collaborative, and deeply meaningful.
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.