Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 877 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: 7/2/2026

Empowering
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Crisis Intervention
+8
Hi! I’m Jennifer, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with 20 years of experience in mental health. I’m deeply passionate about helping individuals empower themselves and discover their inner strengths. I truly believe that you are the expert on your own mind and body, and my role is to guide you in tapping into that innate wisdom. In our work together, I use a trauma-informed, person-centered approach to help you gain mental clarity and motivation for change. I focus on nervous system regulation and creating a sense of safety within your body, as I believe this is the foundation for overall mental and physical well-being. If you’re ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing, I’m here to support you every step of the way!
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Foster Care/Adoption
Military/Veterans
+6
I am a veteran of the United States Air Force, having proudly served for 16 years. Over the years, I have earned a license as a Clinical Social Worker and hold a PhD in the same field. My professional journey has taken me through various roles, including working with Child Protective Services for Sacramento County and providing support through the Department of Veterans Affairs. My experiences have deepened my commitment to serving others and have equipped me with a diverse skill set in clinical practice and social work.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Solution oriented
Intelligent
Direct

Specialties

Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
+9
My name is Anna Grabarczyk (grah-bar-chick). European-born and raised, I bring over 12 years of clinical experience. My approach is engaging, action-oriented, and solution-focused, while always grounded in compassion and empathy. I value working with people from diverse backgrounds and strive to integrate a broad psychological and cultural perspective into therapy. With deep respect for different belief systems, I also recognize and thoughtfully address the spiritual dimension of emotional healing when it is meaningful to the client. I focus on several approaches, including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Solution-Focused therapy Trauma-Informed care Attachment-Based theory EMDR Ericksonian techniques
VirtualAvailable
Intelligent
Authentic
Humorous

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Life Transitions
+6
Hi, I'm Dave Jaskolski, a Licensed Marriage and Family Counselor. LMFT. I graduated from JFK University with a degree in Counseling and Transpersonal Psychology. I have worked at Antioch Children's Behavioral Health for over 26 years. I have worked with children, adolescents, and their families with serious symptoms and challenges such as: PTSD & trauma-related issues, ADHD/ learning disorders, and school-related IEPs, Self-harming/cutting/suicidal ideation and attempts, foster children, attachment issues, aggression/ anger issues. Autistic spectrum issues. I have taught and supervised interns in training to become therapists. I lead a Multi-Family Dialectical Behavior Therapy Group. I also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Direct
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Depression
+10
Teenagers often arrive in therapy carrying things that no one at home or school knows how to name yet. I've spent years working alongside adolescents and their families in schools and community settings—and I bring that same depth to my work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, and major life transitions. I also specialize in early psychosis: working with teens and young adults experiencing their first break with reality, and the families trying to understand what's happening. My approach centers on building clear goals, strengthening hope, and learning to move through the uncertainty that real change requires. If you'd like to learn more about me & my approach, please visit: www.benjaminclover.com/about
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+4
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with 25 years of clinical background. I have worked with clients in navigating crisis, addiction, isolation, anxiety, life transitions, and unresolved conflict. I provide safety, hope, understanding, and a way forward when dealing with clients' challenges to help them build resilience and move toward meaningful change. I advocate a philosophy of acceptance, compassion, empathy, and a respectful, non-judgmental style with all my clients. Through open and honest conversations my clients gain insight into their thoughts patterns, emotions, and past experiences to cultivate deeper insight and self-awareness. To experience, and be with another human being through the process of struggle, change, and healing is the greatest reward for me as a therapist.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
Hello! My name is Scott. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California, and most recently also Arizona, and truly have a passion for helping others to gain wellness. I am originally from sunny San Diego, California. After working in the field in several roles, I made the decision to ultimately be a Marriage and Family Therapist. Since then, I have truly loved every minute of what I do. My personal philosophy is that healing begins with understanding, connection and hope. I have also recently received a certification as an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider. PLEASE NOTE*** Unfortunately, at this time, I DO NOT SEE COUPLES/FAMILIES.. Additionally, I utilize AI in my practice to help me with my documentation. If you are uncomfortable with the use of AI in our sessions than I would ask that you find another therapist who does not use AI.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Holistic
Warm

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Hello! Is something holding you back from living life to your fullest potential? Feeling stuck? Anxious? Experiencing a difficult life transition? Depressed and unable to thrive in your current life situation? As a licensed professional clinical counselor and board certified somatic psychotherapist, I will address your concerns with an integrated approach that honors the sacredness of your body, mind & spirit. The body is the carrier of all of our lived experiences, and there is so much wisdom within each of us. I bring a unique perspective of nervous system functioning through Chi for Two® a mindful embodiment method. Scientist Stephen Porges created polyvagal theory. Polyvagal theory helps us recognize anxiety and depression as symptoms of trauma. When we experience trauma, our bodies create nervous system patterning that gets passed down over generations. When our ancestors experienced trauma, their bodies created nervous system patterning that got passed down to us. Chi for Two partner practices help us heal multi-generational trauma. I am interested in tapping into the internal resources you already possess, while providing you with accessible skills to support your journey towards having a life worth living become a reality.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

ADHD
Bipolar Disorder
Personality Disorders
+11
Hi, I am Matthew Ortega! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the beautiful, sunny state of California with nearly 15 years of experience working with clients in the community. Are you longing for more right now? Is ADHD executive dysfunction ruling your day? Are you needing help coping with a new diagnosis of Bipolar disorder or OCD? Or are you looking for a safe place to discuss topics with your spouse, validate your feelings and restore your relationship to its former glory? I help empower individuals and couples of all ages and relationship statuses to overcome their obstacles and live a happy and fulfilling life. I use an educational and interactive approach to elevate and validate you. My approach offers cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, dialectical behavioral, solution-focused, harm reduction, and trauma-informed perspectives as needed for YOUR unique situation. Together we dig deep to bring forth your most rewarding and fulfilling life. I take pride in leaving the stigmatizing labels at the door, here you are welcomed as you are! I believe it takes great strength and courage to take the first step in connecting with a therapist. My goal is to make you comfortable and empowered throughout the entire experience. If you’re ready to make the commitment and put in the honest effort to dig deep and blossom, then I am here to support you! I look forward to working with you and building this relationship!
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
+3
I work with high-functioning adults who may appear capable on the outside while quietly struggling with anxiety, stress, burnout, or difficult life and relationship transitions. Many of my clients are used to holding it together for everyone else, yet internally feel overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or disconnected from themselves. Therapy can help you slow down, better understand what you are carrying, and respond with more clarity, intention, and self-trust.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+10
Hello and welcome! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters Degree from Phillips Graduate Institute and have been providing therapeutic services in a variety of settings with multiple populations for over 14 years. With years of experience in the field, I bring a deep understanding of the complexities of human relationships and the impact they have on your overall well-being. I draw from evidence-based therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, attachment and family systems theory, to help you navigate through your challenges and achieve the outcomes you desire. In our sessions, we will work collaboratively to explore your concerns, uncover underlying patterns, and develop practical strategies for overcoming obstacles.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+7
Couples: I am TAKING Couples again. However only on Cash Pay basis. This is how it will work: You can schedule with me an hour consultation, you don't both have to be present, for this Consultation. From there we will meet 5 to 6 times for 1.5 hour sessions. It is very difficult to have Couples sessions within 60 min. The Cash pay is $250.00 for the 1.5 hour sessions. I understand the cost can be a deterrent in seeking help, however if you are both committed to doing the work 5 to 6 sessions should be productive and enough to see changes. Individuals: Of course I am still taking individuals that are or are not in a relationship and need help. We were never taught how to be in a relationship of any kind. Yes there are tons of books of how to, however to put them to practical use can be very difficult. This can also relate to a relationship with a family member, friends or co-workers. Sometimes our own mental health can influence all of our relationships, and you may need coping techniques for anxiety and or depression type symptoms. I will work with you individually to help you gain insight to your own behavior that may be influencing your relationship. I am here to help with coping strategies for anxiety and depression symptoms or learning how to communicate more effectively with others.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+10
I am licensed therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with compassion and clarity. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, transitional life phases and grief. My goals is to create a safe, non judgmental space where the client can explore their feelings, gain insight, and develop strategies for change. Together we work toward a greater self-understanding, healthier relationships, and a life that aligns with your values, goals, and to be a better version of yourself.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Chronic Illness
LGBTQ
+4
Hello, I am a therapist who focuses on improving the lives of his clients. I will help empower them to enrich their lives. Together we can explore methods on helping the individual deal with everyday life stressors and also past trauma. I am someone who wants to see their clients excel and be able to manage life's difficulties. Hoping to help my clients see positive results in therapy.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+3
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, CA. For almost 10 years, I have worked in various settings with teens and young adults to help them build resilience, healthy coping mechanisms, and learn to process emotions. I create a non-judgmental environment to support each client in their exploration of what led them to seek therapy. Through insight and awareness, clients can feel more empowered and find a deeper sense of self.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Women's Issues
+1
Welcome! I'm Annemarie and I would love to be your guide on your journey toward peace and self-discovery. Seeking support is such a huge step and often times a difficult one to take. But here you are! Now that the difficult part is behind you, let's talk about how I can help. Over the last 8 years, I have worked with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges which include depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief and loss, and life transitions. During our sessions, you can expect compassion and collaboration. Ours will be a non-judgmental, safe space where you can learn and practice evidence-based strategies to assist you with your challenges.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker of over twenty years and have worked with a variety of patients across multiple specialties. I also have a master's degree in Public Health. I've worked in medical social work, with patients in oncology, physical rehabilitation and dialysis. In this way, I have a robust understanding of both the physical and mental aspects of my clients.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Older Adults
+5
My name is Denise Bennett and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of where to begin, you are not alone. I believe everyone deserves a safe, supportive space where they can speak openly, feel heard, and be met with compassion. I work collaboratively with clients as they navigate life transitions, stress, relationship challenges, grief, and periods of uncertainty. Whether you are facing a specific concern or simply seeking a place to pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself, I am here to walk alongside you, at your pace, while honoring your strengths, experiences, and personal goals.
VirtualAvailable
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.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Greetings! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in California. I have 10 years of experience working as a school counselor. This work includes working with children and teens on anxiety and familial stress. Also, I have been practicing clinical therapy for 5 years. In this realm of work, I support individuals struggling with life issues and transitions to become the best versions of themselves.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Empowering
Direct

Specialties

Career Counseling
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
Self Esteem
+4
Through connection, empathy and a non-judgmental approach, I offer ways to help you discover what may be blocking you from finding your true path in life. By not seeing an individual for what symptoms they have or what is affecting them, I am more interested in helping you find what is the cause of symptoms and how to process them. I work with adults from all backgrounds. I am also open to any culture, belief, identification or orientation. All are welcome. I base all individual therapy on a client-focused approach and adapt sessions to the needs of each person.
VirtualAvailable
Intelligent
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
I’m a depth‑oriented psychologist who helps clients slow down, understand the patterns shaping their lives, and connect with the parts of themselves that need care and clarity. My style is warm, steady, and collaborative—I move at your pace and create a space where you don’t have to navigate difficult emotions or experiences alone. I’m especially attuned to trauma, anxiety, and attachment‑based patterns, and I work with clients who want more than symptom relief—they want insight, meaning, and lasting change.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Coping Skills
Depression
Anger Management
+17
Hello, thank you for coming to my web page, and I want to help you with whatever journey comes our way. I have 8 years of experience, with combined internship and as an LMFT in dealing with anxiety, depression and trauma. Being married, I believe that I can relate when married couples have struggles and they need my help with a tune-up or their restart. I empower clients to use different ways of thinking to whatever life situations come your way, by giving many different ways to solve problems, and improve communication and strive for assertiveness and self-confidence, and let go of past hurts. I strive to listen to clients at their lowest lows and highest highs and bring Christian views and values whenever possible.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Direct
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
All things are interconnected. To feel better, you have to act better. To feel better, you have to think better. To think better, you have to feel better. To act better, you have to think better. To think, feel, and act better, you have to care for your physical health. To care for your physical health, you have to think, feel, and act better. Each has a corresponding effect on the other. However, the aspect of ourselves that we have the most direct control of is what we do, our acting. While we can influence other people, we cannot control other people. A great source of conflict and unhappiness results from our efforts to control others. If you want better relationships, the only thing we can control is what we do, how we choose to relate. We are responsible for what we do. Others are responsible for what they do. Accepting this fundamental reality and thinking, feeling, and acting in accordance with it is how we increase our experience of power, freedom, belonging, meaning and, very importantly, fun. My professional experience includes over 30 years of post-Master’s clinical work, including leadership experience in foster care, chemical abuse and addiction, inpatient and outpatient mental health services, and crisis intervention, de-escalation, and hospitalization. I am experienced in working with ages three through the elderly. I have worked extensively with youth and families, diverse populations and life issues, providing services in various settings, including family homes, schools, juvenile detention facilities, jails, outpatient clinics, and inpatient psychiatric facilities.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+6
Do you find yourself putting everyone else's needs before your own? Perhaps you are the responsible one in your family—the person others depend on for support, and stability. You may appear successful on the outside, yet internally feel overwhelmed, anxious, or exhausted from carrying responsibilities that never seem to end. Maybe you struggle to set boundaries without guilt, find yourself repeating the same relationship patterns, or wonder why you work so hard yet still feel like you're falling short. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. For over 20 years, I have helped adults navigate anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, and grief. Many of the clients I work with are high-achieving adults, adult children of immigrant parents, and individuals who have spent years taking care of others while neglecting their own emotional needs. Often, the struggles we experience as adults are connected to lessons we learned early in life. We may have learned to stay strong, avoid conflict, meet expectations, or prioritize everyone else's needs before our own. While these patterns may have helped us survive difficult circumstances, they can later contribute to anxiety, burnout, resentment, and difficulties in relationships. Over the years, I have learned that growth is not about becoming someone else. It is about understanding ourselves more fully, letting go of patterns that no longer serve us, and creating relationships that reflect who we are today. I believe meaningful change begins with awareness, compassion, and courage. Therapy is not about becoming someone different. It is about reconnecting with who you are beneath the pressure, expectations, and self-doubt. You deserve relationships that feel authentic, a life that aligns with your values, and the freedom to care for yourself with the same kindness you so freely offer others.
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.