Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 832 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 DiegoSan FranciscoSacramentoOaklandSan JoseLong BeachFresnoRiversideBakersfieldIrvinePasadenaStocktonAnaheimTorranceRosevilleBeverly HillsCoronaPiedmontSanta Clarita

Availability updated: 10/28/2026

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
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Authentic
Empowering
Warm
Specialties
Coping Skills
Crisis Intervention
Spirituality
+5
Welcome to my professional practice focused on providing emotional support. Navigating the complexities of life can be challenging, and seeking assistance is a testament to personal strength. As a licensed therapist, I specialize in working with couples, families, and individuals, addressing psychological issues such as emotional distress and relational dynamics. I offer both Christian counseling and secular therapeutic modalities, creating a secure environment for clients to express their emotions and foster healthier interpersonal connections. My methodology is rooted in evidence-based practices aimed at managing anxiety, facilitating life transitions, and processing past traumas. Together, we will work on enhancing self-awareness and implementing strategies for positive behavioral change, ultimately paving the way for a more satisfying and enriched life experience. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together!
VirtualAvailable
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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
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Authentic
Humorous
Warm
Specialties
Child or Adolescent
Men's Issues
Women's Issues
+10
My name is Gary Youssef and I have been providing mental/behavioral health services for children, adolescents, adults and families for 25+ years. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing mental/behavioral health issues impacting children and adults such as: career/school stressors, depression, anxiety, relational issues, parenting, family systems, medical challenges, healthy lifestyles, etc. I worked for 14 years as a therapist and program manager at the central outpatient psychiatry clinic at Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego which is ranked as one of the top 10 children's hospitals in the United States by U.S. News and World report. I have helped provide behavioral health services for over 10,000 children, adults and families throughout San Diego County. In addition, I helped support U.S. service members and their families while working as a military family life counselor at Naval Medical Center-San Diego in Pediatrics. I also volunteered at San Diego Unified School District and coached little league. I love being a father to my two awesome sons and I enjoy athletics and cooking in my free time. I am practical and eclectic therapist combining elements from theoretical orientations such as cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy to help clients of all ages. The vast majority of my clients report that they had a good experience working with me and describe me as experienced, professional, friendly, kind, helpful and effective.
VirtualAvailable
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Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Hi, I’m Maureshia, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over eight years of experience supporting individuals through life’s challenges. I work with young professionals and diverse populations, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, navigating anxiety, depression, career transitions, work-life balance, and identity exploration. My approach is warm, collaborative, and goal-oriented, focused on creating a safe space where you can gain insight, build practical skills, and move forward with confidence and clarity.
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Authentic
Solution oriented
Direct
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Luke is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a background in emergency medical services and hospital emergency departments. He is a United States Coast Guard veteran located in California. Luke believes in healthy habit development, consistent focus on goals, and problem solving to improve quality of life. Luke's approach to therapy includes: positive psychology, stress management, reducing substance use, communication skills, solution focused therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Outside of work Luke enjoys outdoor activities like camping, mountain biking, sailing, and scuba diving.
VirtualAvailable
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Intelligent
Direct
Solution oriented
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
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Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
My name means “Light,” and my goal is to help you rediscover yours. As a BIPOC therapist, I bring a culturally sensitive, holistic approach to healing. Together, we’ll shed light on your challenges and explore compassionate, practical solutions to help you move forward. My work is rooted in the transformative power of mindfulness, spirituality, and self-awareness. I integrate psychoanalysis, faith-based counseling, and holistic healing to create a space where you can reconnect with your authentic self and cultivate resilience. I specialize in supporting adults facing anxiety, trauma, depression, and men’s issues. My approach blends psychotherapy with spiritual exploration and self-discovery — helping you realign with your purpose and inner peace. I believe every person holds untapped potential and innate wisdom. My role is to hold a nonjudgmental space where you can feel seen, supported, and understood. Through our work together, we’ll turn over the stones of your experience to reveal clarity, healing, and a renewed sense of direction. I’ve personally walked through profound loss and transformation — including a near-death experience and the passing of my beloved mother to cancer. These experiences deepened my faith in the human spirit and in our collective ability to heal and shine again. Wherever you are on your journey, I’m here to help you grow and remember who you truly are — a light meant to shine.
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Authentic
Humorous
Empowering
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
+10
Hey there friend, I’m Dr. Ryan Terao. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in supporting those doing their best to navigate this experience we call life. I partner with my clients to discover, observe, and reconnect them with their values and find more effective ways to achieve their goals. In each session, I aim to provide my clients with new perspectives and tangible skills to adjust their mindsets to help them be more intentional in living out their values in their life. *Unfortunately I am not currently taking insurance for coupes therapy and am only accepting cash payments for couples therapy*
VirtualAvailable
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Empowering
Warm
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+5
I have been working in the area of mental wellness for over 25 years developing programs, creating partnerships, and working directly with clients. I have a passion for supporting clients to feel better and reach their goals. I work with clients to understand the states of their own nervous systems and work with skills to find more peace and balance in their bodies. I believe that a body, spirit, mind approach is the direction of healing and becoming our best. Our body holds so much wisdom for healing and wellbeing. Our spirits help us connect with the best parts of ourselves that can help us move from dark places to letting the light shine from within. We can learn to change the messages in our minds that are more reflective of who we are as a whole being.
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Often rebooked

Solution oriented
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Coping Skills
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+5
Hi, I'm Abby. Do you find it difficult to gain peace in your daily life? Do your past experiences impact how you can function in your present moment? Or does fear about past or future events keep you from living your life the way you want to today? I help people from all walks of life learn to manage and process these feelings, emotions and events. Empowering them to move forward with skills to be successful in their daily lives. Together we can heal mind, body and spirit to build the healthiest version of you moving forward. Confident in your ability to manage what life brings your way. Wellness is more than the absence of disease; it is a state of optimal well-being. It goes beyond the curing of illness to achieving health. Through the ongoing integration of your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual self, you have the opportunity to create and preserve a whole and happy life. I strive to create services that are designed to provide you with an integrated solution for your mind, body, spirit, and life to enhance your life and resolve issues. I provide counseling designed to address many of the issues people are dealing with and I am excited to start this journey with you. I know the first step can be scary but I will walk alongside you to achieve the goal you have set out for yourself.
VirtualAvailable
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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
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Warm
Intelligent
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Older Adults
+12
Choosing a therapist can feel confusing, especially when you’re trying to understand what therapy actually involves. At its core, therapy is a unique relationship built on trust, safety, and genuine human connection. My first priority is creating a non‑shaming, supportive environment where you feel understood and comfortable sharing your story. I primarily work with individuals at this time and accept a limited number of couples when appropriate. My approach is experiential and attachment‑based, meaning we explore emotions, patterns, and relationships in a way that helps you make sense of what you’re feeling and move toward meaningful change. You can expect empathy, authenticity, and a collaborative process where your goals guide our work. I’m especially effective with adolescents, young adults, people navigating high‑stress careers in tech or business, active-duty service members, veterans, and anyone seeking clarity, emotional grounding, or healthier ways of relating to themselves and others. Clients often describe me as caring, steady, and deeply invested in their wellbeing. If what you’ve read resonates, I’d be glad to connect and explore whether we’re a good fit. Sincerely, Michael Durrigan, LMFT (131635)
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Empowering
Authentic
Intelligent
Specialties
Anxiety
Crisis Intervention
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Having spent almost two decades healing patients, I've developed a profound understanding of the unique challenges individuals face in their journey towards self-discovery. My approach combines evidence-based, trauma-focused therapy with neuroscience-based cognitive techniques, specifically tailored toward each patient. Together, I invite you to embark on a journey of growth and empowerment, unlocking your full potential and nurturing your True Self.
VirtualAvailable
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Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+2
I am a licensed psychotherapist providing individual, family, adolescent and child therapy. I will collaborate with you to identify your goals and learn what is getting in the way of your sense of well-­being. We can work together to support your strengths while addressing the issues that are causing you problems. I provide an environment conducive to discussing difficult issues and exploring creative possibilities for change. I have grief therapy experience, including Survivors of Suicide, and Motherless Daughters.
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Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
+3
Hello, I am Coralia Valdez, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I have been working in the mental health field for over 25 years. Throughout my work as therapist, I believe that real change happens when you feel truly heard and supported. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you can explore your challenges, discover your strengths, and move toward the life you want.
VirtualAvailable
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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
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Authentic
Empowering
Direct
Specialties
Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+9
You’re doing your best to hold everything together—but you’re exhausted. Maybe everyone turns to you, yet your mind won’t shut off. If you're navigating anxiety, self-doubt, perfectionism, people-pleasing, burnout, or past trauma, therapy can be a place to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and create space for the person you are beneath all that pressure.
VirtualAvailable
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Authentic
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
+8
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 6 years of clinical experience treating individuals navigating life challenges, depression, anxiety, self esteem and relationship issues. I provide a warm and empathetic approach and have experience working with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and underserved communities. Some modalities I use include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help challenge negative thoughts and increase coping skills for stress management.
Available
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Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
+7
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I received my master's degree in Marriage in Family Therapy from USC (University of Southern California). I help adults navigate conflicts that may arise from cultural differences, such as generational gaps, cultural identity, family/relationship issues, and cultural/societal pressures by helping you utilize your values and goals to reconcile dilemmas and maintaining healthy relationships with yourself and others. I also help adults experiencing depression and anxiety by helping you challenge unhelpful thoughts, beliefs, behaviors as well as develop and utilize tools to reduce anxiety, depression, and stress that impact your day to day life.
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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
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Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+10
Hi! Do you feel overwhelmed with constant racing thoughts making you feel anxious, or unhelpful negative self-talk causing you to feel depressed and mentally fatigued? These patterns of thinking can negatively affect your job, relationships, and ability to cope with daily life. You don't have to navigate this alone. We can work together and reframe these unhelpful thoughts to a healthier mindset so you can regain your sense of calmness and balance. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with teens, adults, and families. I enjoy collaborating and listening to what you want to achieve. I support you by providing the skills needed to manage your daily struggles and ultimately reach your goals. My approach to therapy is person-centered, allowing you to gain your own understanding of your experiences to promote personal growth. I use evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness techniques to support you in the healing process, and I tailor every session to your specific needs by utilizing a vast assortment of other therapeutic approaches. I get great pleasure in educating and helping you reach your maximum potential. It's an honor to be trusted with your story, and I bring that same care to every session we share. My goal is for you to leave each session with practical tools and a clearer sense of your own strengths. Whatever brings you to therapy, we'll move at your pace, with your goals guiding our work together.
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Authentic
Warm
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+4
Hi there! My name is Courtney Carlson and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I have a background in working with a diverse range of clients (children, families, adults) in a variety of settings (school-based, outpatient, long term residential settings). Currently, I focus on providing individual therapy for transitional-aged youth (18-24) and adults. I believe therapy is something I do with clients, not to clients. I typically work with helping clients manage anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms by improving coping skills, processing life transitions, exploring childhood and current family dynamics, improving relationships and communication skills, and improving emotional regulation skills.
VirtualAvailable
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Often rebooked

Intelligent
Warm
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Hello, I'm Cameron and many of my clients are adults and couples who present as successful on the outside but internally struggle with burnout, anxiety, self-doubt, trauma, and/or feeling disconnected in their relationships. They find themselves stuck in cycles of overthinking, people-pleasing, or unhealthy communication patterns that leave them feeling insecure or emotionally distant. I help individuals and couples heal and move forward and learn skills to feel more confident, connected, and emotionally secure.
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Authentic
Direct
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Men's Issues
Trauma and PTSD
+9
My career as a classroom teacher, assistant principal and university professor served me well in my current practice as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I earned my Doctorate in Education/Ed.D. from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL. As a university professor, I became the Multiple Subject Program Director, Graduate Reading Director, and Supervisor of Student Teachers with both national and international publications.
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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.