Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 284 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: 12/19/2025

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi there, I'm Bridget, Our world is a busy and ever-changing place. With these changes can come stressors that can lead to anxiety, depression and interpersonal struggles. Do you find yourself unable to focus, or maybe struggling to enjoy things you once loved? Sometimes, we all need a place to be heard and understood. Sometimes, we just need some space to share and explore our own emotions in a non-judgemental and unbiased space. There is no "one size fits all" approach to therapy, I am honored to have the opportunity to work with you to achieve your goals and find peace. I practice an open, empathic approach to therapy using multiple different evidence-based modalities to help find a good fit for you as an individual. Reaching out for help can be difficult and takes a great deal of strength, I am so glad you are here and taking these first steps. Whether you are dealing with interpersonal struggles, depression, anxiety, trauma, life stressors or other concerns, I will meet you with compassion and understanding, and walk alongside you on this journey to healing and growth.
VirtualAvailable
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Empowering
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+5
I'm a bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I specialize in working with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD and trauma. I enjoy working with clients who are ready to work on their relationships with partners, family and themselves. Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma or personal development, I am here to work alongside you, offering evidence-based techniques and empathetic guidance to promote healing and enhance your well-being.
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Empowering
Humorous

Specialties

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

Specialties

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

Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
+1
I am a 54 year old bi-culutral father of two adolescents in the year 2025. With all of the social pressures that our families have been subject to, it's never been more important to be close and listen to each other. Social disconnect is the new pandemic and the challenges that interefere with social connection are the same ones driving our sense of faulty connection and confusion with pleasure and happiness.
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Warm
Authentic

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+5
I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a passion for helping clients explore new perspectives on mental health. I specialize in working with first responders and their families, offering a relaxed and inviting approach that creates a safe space for growth and healing. I particularly enjoy supporting individuals who are navigating everyday stress and looking to build healthier coping strategies. I often say, “Our toolboxes need to be big—because life requires a lot of tools.” My goal is to help clients expand their toolkits so they feel more equipped and empowered in their daily lives.
VirtualAvailable
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Frequently rebooked

Open-minded
Warm

Specialties

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

Specialties

ADHD
Bipolar Disorder
Child or Adolescent
+10
Life is often challenging and can be overwhelming. A good therapist can ease these challenges and turn them into opportunities for growth. I am a therapist with twenty years experience and expertise in child, adolescent and adult therapy. I earned a bachelor's degree with honors from University of California, Davis and a Master's from Smith College School for Social Work.
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Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+9
I am a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience. I have a holistic approach, facilitated by my Graduate studies in Spiritual Psychology. Combined with the tride & true CBT approach, this therapy can offer the insight & the tools that can add both depth and practicality to one's experience of themselves & their lives. I aim to help others understand themselves, others and their lives in ways that highlight compassion, patience, empathy & more.
VirtualAvailable
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Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Humorous
Holistic

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Trauma and PTSD
+1
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trapped by the weight of past trauma, or struggling to find a sense of peace in your daily life, I want you to know that healing is possible—and you're not alone. I specialize in treating trauma and anxiety with a specific focus on boys and men. As boys and men, many of us were taught to "tough it out," push through, or keep our emotions in check. But when trauma and anxiety go unspoken, they don’t just fade—they show up in our bodies, our relationships, and our sense of self. Whether you're facing panic, feeling numb, carrying the weight of a past experience, or just struggling to feel like yourself, I can help you work through it.
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Frequently rebooked

Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+4
Hello, and welcome! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. My background spans a variety of care settings, and I’m dedicated to providing compassionate, client-centered therapy as you navigate life’s challenges. I take a flexible, holistic approach to therapy, drawing on different therapeutic techniques to help you gain insight, self-awareness, and practical tools for coping. Above all, my work is grounded in empathy and a deep commitment to your well-being. Together, we’ll explore your concerns, identify areas of growth, and work toward building a more fulfilling life.
VirtualAvailable
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Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hello and thank you so much for having enough courage and honesty to take the first big step. My name is Erlynn Cabarles, LCSW and I have a Master’s in Social Work from SFSU. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California since 2015. I have 20 plus years of experience in the mental health field and I believe that the first step of healing is self-discovery and the development of personal goals to overcome challenges. My intentions are to instill hope and inspiration and to empower you to be able to move on to a more fulfilling life. Remember that You are resilient and determined to change for the positivity. My purpose is to provide a safe space and non-judgmental environment. If you’re ready, I’ll be here to support you on your journey towards healing!
VirtualAvailable
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Frequently rebooked

Warm
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

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

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Depression
Isabel is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor at Mountain Counseling and Training. She provides compassionate, culturally responsive therapy to children, adults, and families, with a strong background in crisis intervention and supporting clients through life’s most challenging moments. Beyond her clinical work, Isabel has led community mental health initiatives and continues to advocate for accessible resources and education, particularly within the Hispanic community.
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New to Grow

Specialties

ADHD
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+3
I take a warm, collaborative, and solution-focused approach to therapy, working alongside clients to help them find practical ways forward. Much of my work centers on supporting adults living with PTSD, depression, and anxiety, and I’ve developed a strong niche working with men in the gay community. My primary approach is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), but I believe therapy should fit the person—not the other way around. Depending on your needs and goals, I adjust how I work so that treatment feels useful and relevant to what you’re facing. Clients can expect a conversational style of therapy with me. I offer nonjudgmental support, space to reflect, and concrete strategies that can be applied outside of session. My goal is to create an environment where you feel understood, respected, and empowered to make meaningful changes in your life.
VirtualAvailable
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Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Career Counseling
Depression
Hi! Since 2010 I have been a trusted partner for my clients in order to help them achieve healthy and balanced personal lives and relationships. As a licensed small business, I’m deeply committed to being there even you need me most – helping you explore, heal, and move forward into a happy and healthy mindset. My clients constantly acknowledge and appreciate my warm, caring, and nonjudgmental described as calming when assisting them in developing effective coping skills and overcoming personal barriers.
VirtualAvailable
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Frequently rebooked

Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+4
Hello! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters from CSU Stanislaus and have been practicing for over 12 years. I work collaboratively with adults around a variety of life stressors to help them meet their individual goals. Some of my specific areas of expertise include working with anxiety disorders, life transitions, and women’s health.
VirtualAvailable
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Authentic
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

Depression
LGBTQ
Trauma and PTSD
+8
Hello! I have been continuously licensed as a Clinical Psychologist since 1999. I grew up poor in inner city Cleveland. I was the 1st in my family to complete a college degree of any kind. I was a truck driver before I became a psychologist. I have a neuromuscular disability which effects my lower arms and hands and lower legs and feet. I use a wheelchair for long distances but I can walk a little. I graduated with a BA in psychology from Cleveland State University in 1992. I graduated with my doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago in 1998.
VirtualAvailable
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Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

ADHD
LGBTQ
Trauma and PTSD
+6
I’m a therapist who brings warmth, humor, and compassion into the therapy room. I love working with clients spanning from those struggling with coping with the problems of the world, seeking to heal from childhood wounds, and LGBTQ+ clients/ I strive to create a safe, judgment-free space where you can show up as your full self. My approach is strength-based, collaborative, and supportive, helping you tap into your resilience while also finding new tools for growth.
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Frequently rebooked

Intelligent
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+2
I have been a licensed clinical social worker for 28 years. I chose a social work career to support and help others who find themselves in difficult situations. I'll help you identify your strengths, set attainable goals, and work with you to address feelings of anxiety or depression. As a Certified Happiness Trainer, I have a particular interest in happiness and well-being, and would be glad to incorporate this into our work if you wish.
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Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Self Esteem
Women's Issues
+6
Your life is changing and you’re not sure why you’re not handling it better. In my work with clients, I’ve seen that even good changes can make usually well-adjusted people struggle with day-to-day stress that didn’t seem to be a challenge in the past. I’ve worked with people who struggle with communicating emotions, prioritizing themselves, or feeling like their best is not good enough. If you feel like you can identify with those experiences and are not sure how to change things, I’d love to work with you.
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Humorous
Holistic

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Women's Issues
+3
I am a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to supporting individuals through life’s challenges with compassion and evidence-based care. I specialize in using EMDR, CBT, and DBT techniques to help clients heal from trauma, manage emotions, and build resilience. My approach is collaborative, empowering clients to take an active role in their healing journey. I believe therapy should be a safe and supportive space where therapy participants feel heard, understood, and valued. Together, we work toward creating lasting change, building healthier relationships, and fostering greater self-acceptance.
VirtualAvailable
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Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+10
I bring a pragmatic and logical approach to therapy, emphasizing balance in personal development. My style focuses on guiding individuals (adults & teenagers) who are committed to healing themselves from the ground up. Together, we can work towards fostering qualities such as confidence without arrogance and resilience without inflexibility. My approach is grounded in humility, recognizing the importance of being a “salt of the earth” in my practice.
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Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+8
I’m Herschel O’Brien, a clinical counselor with extensive experience in trauma-informed, client-centered care. I specialize in helping individuals navigate emotional challenges, build resilience, and reconnect with their strengths. My approach is grounded, compassionate, and collaborative, drawing from modalities like mindfulness, narrative therapy, and systems thinking. Whether you're facing trauma, mood instability, or life transitions, I offer a safe space where healing is possible and meaningful growth can take root. I believe in empowering clients to become the authors of their own lives, with clarity, confidence, and emotional insight.
VirtualAvailable
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Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Peer Relationships
Self Esteem
+8
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and have worked in mental health facilities and organizations for over 18 years and have been a LMFT for 6 years. I have experience working with: -Runaway teen youth (12-17 years old) -Children with autism/ADHD (under 12 years old) -Parenting Skills and Anger Management instructor -Transitional Aged-Youth (16-25 years old) -Adult psychiatric hospital setting -Adult outpatient treatment centers -Adults with disabilities (assisting living independently) -Integrative-Health in a health clinic (ages 5 - 65+ year olds). Working with many age groups and ranges throughout my career has humbled me to believe we are all in a quest to maintain a good quality of life within all phases of life. Let's meet to discuss ways we could work together for you to reach your desired outcomes!
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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.

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.