Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 882 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: 6/28/2026

Warm
Humorous
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+24
Life transitions and unexpected challenges can bring a mix of emotions, including stress, uncertainty, anxiety, sadness, and self-doubt. Whether you are navigating changes in relationships, school, work, identity, family dynamics, or other personal challenges, therapy can provide a supportive space to process these experiences and develop healthier ways of coping. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing therapy in both English and Spanish. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds and strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard and empowered. Over the past several years, I have worked in a variety of settings including schools, community mental health, inpatient psychiatric care, and hospital emergency services, helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, life transitions, and interpersonal challenges.
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

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

Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anger Management
Coping Skills
Depression
+6
I have over 20 years experience working in a forensic setting addressing a range of mental health issues that include anger management, psychosis, general anxiety, depression, and trauma related symptoms. I offer therapy using cognitive based interventions along with mindfulness strategies to manage mood symptoms and control negative thinking patterns. I also offer assertive communication techniques to help improve communication style between partners, family, friends, and workplace.
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
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
Solution oriented
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Military/Veterans
Trauma and PTSD
+4
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who provides counseling to adults and couples using a trauma-informed approach. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and I help clients process and heal from complex life experiences. I bring a unique depth of experience to my work, having served 25 years as a police officer and over 13 years supporting first responders through peer support programs. I am also a certified domestic violence counselor with experience working with both adults and children impacted by trauma, and a U.S. Army veteran with four years of active-duty service.
VirtualAvailable

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Spirituality
+5
Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters of Science in Counseling Psychology at Mount Saint Mary’s University and have been practicing for over 8 years. I help adults struggling with anxiety and life transitions face their history and get to the root of their life experiences so that they can connect back to themselves and become who they really are.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
Great to meet you! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I’m really glad you’re here. Reaching out for support isn’t always easy, so taking this step already says a lot about your willingness to grow. I work with clients navigating anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, and patterns that can feel hard to break. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the same cycles or unsure why certain things keep coming up, you’re not alone — and that’s exactly the kind of work we can explore together.
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

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
Authentic
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Crisis Intervention
Depression
Mood Disorders
+2
Hello, I have extensive experiences in providing mental health services as a License Clinical Social worker (LCSW) to adolescents, adults, and older adults. I received my master's from the University Southern California (USC) and have been practicing for 20 years. I enjoy helping adolescents, adults, and older adult struggling with mental health issues and has helped many clients to gain understanding and insight into their mental health issues and learned health coping skills to improve their life and have healthy relationships with people they interact with.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+6
Hello, my name is Elena, which means “shining light.” I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing since 2015, when I earned my Master’s in Social Work. Throughout my career, I have worked in a wide range of settings, including hospitals, mental health clinics, domestic violence shelters, foster care, addiction treatment centers, and jails. These diverse experiences have helped me discover what I value most in my work: making a meaningful difference in the lives of the people I serve. Whether I am supporting someone through depression, helping them manage anxiety, processing long-held trauma, or simply offering a safe space to be heard, I find deep fulfillment in walking alongside others on their healing journey. True to the meaning of my name, I strive to be a source of hope and light for those I meet, believing that even small moments of connection can create lasting change.
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

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
Solution oriented
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+7
I am not taking Couples, but I am 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 beit coping strategies for anxiety and depression symptoms or learning how to communicate more effectively with others.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQ
+7
I earned my doctorate and post-graduate master's degrees in psychology and my master's degree in counseling from the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. Professionally, I retired from the United States Air Force as a senior non-commissioned officer, and since retiring, have worked in several different behavioral health settings. In addition to my private practice, I am a graduate-level adjunct professor of counseling psychology.
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
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

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
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
LGBTQ
Men's Issues
+6
My name is Aaron Jimenez, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Los Angeles, California, with over 13 years of experience serving the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. Much of my career has been rooted in community-based care. I spent eight years at the Los Angeles LGBT Center — the largest LGBTQ+ health organization in the world — where I deepened my commitment to affirming, culturally responsive therapy. I have also had the privilege of teaching at my graduate alma mater, Pepperdine University, and consulting on a range of mental health-related projects that continue to shape my approach to this work. My practice is grounded primarily in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a framework I have found to be one of the most practical and effective tools available. By integrating CBT's evidence-based problem-solving skills with mindfulness and distress tolerance, DBT helps clients develop a clearer understanding of themselves — and the concrete skills to turn that insight into meaningful, lasting change. As a gay man and person of color, I understand firsthand the importance of feeling truly safe and seen in a therapeutic space. That sense of safety is the foundation of everything I do. From there, I take a collaborative approach — working alongside each client to build toward a life worth living, as defined by them.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Authentic
Humorous

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
LGBTQ
+10
My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, realistic, and empathetic. I have had the privilege of serving children,teens, adults, and families from diverse backgrounds. I specialize in trauma therapy in children and adults and enjoy an experiential approach to healing. I have experience working with domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking survivors. I am trained as a child and adolescent trauma professional, and I am also skilled in assisting in an array of clinical issues including chronic stress and anxiety, trauma, ADHD, depression, mood disorders, various personality disorders, Adoption concerns (Birthparents, Adoptive Parents, and Adoptees), esteem, and self-worth, along with academic and employment challenges. I welcome LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities into my practice. In our sessions, you can expect to see several therapy modalities utilized including Adlerian Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and narrative therapy.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Men's Issues
Self Esteem
+6
I help adults who look like they’re holding it together on the outside, but feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in the same relationship patterns on the inside. We’ll work on stress management, emotional regulation, communication, and the deeper “why” behind your reactions—so you feel more grounded, confident, and consistent in daily life. My style is warm, structured, and down-to-earth. You don’t need perfect words—just a willingness to show up. I use CBT/DBT/ACT tools for practical change, and I can integrate deeper work (Brainspotting/IFS) when it’s a good fit. I also create a dedicated space for men—especially men of color—who want to explore masculinity, culture, identity, and relationships without judgment.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Welcome to my professional profile. My name is Paul Quezada, and I am a bilingual (Spanish) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Southern California. Thank you for taking the time to consider me as a potential ally on your journey towards improved mental health and overall well-being. First and foremost, I want to acknowledge your courage in seeking help. Your mental health is paramount, and I commend you for prioritizing it. I am here to offer my support and guidance as you navigate life's obstacles and challenges. My role is to provide you with the necessary tools and support to manage the various struggles impacting your mental health. Whether you are grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or navigating significant life transitions, I am here to accompany you on your journey towards healing and self-discovery. Thank you for considering me as a potential partner in your therapeutic journey. I look forward to the opportunity to work together and support you in achieving your goals.
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.