Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 754 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: 5/7/2026

Open-minded
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+10
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 5 years of experience working with adults. Throughout my career, I have treated a wide range of symptoms in both the outpatient and inpatient setting. I have experience with working on a variety of life challenges including; racial and systemic issues, relationships, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, self worth, self harm/SI, and more . My hope is that, through a collaborative process, we can work together to help improve wellbeing, understand emotions, and improve behaviors. My approach to therapy is combined from my years of using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy and a client centered approach. My goal is to take the knowledge I have and help you navigate your life and goals.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Autism
LGBTQ
+7
I am a middle aged Caucasian woman with quirky hobbies and interests. I enjoy getting out in nature, reading, learning, and re-charging with quiet time. I specialize in working with individuals of all ages who are neurodivergent: ADHD, Autistic, PDA, Sensory Sensitive, Learning Differences, Gender Diverse. I help individuals better understand their nervous system and how it connects with emotions and behavior. I help parents better understand their kids and shift their parenting to support their children and increase enjoyment in their parenting experience. I help people learn strategies to improve their sense of well-being & manage anxiety, depression, and life stress. Respect for your autonomy and your values are central in my work.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+8
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe healing happens through connection, compassion, and understanding. I partner with clients to explore patterns, build coping skills, and develop greater self-awareness in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment. My work is informed by trauma-informed care and a holistic perspective that honors each client’s lived experience. My goal is to help clients feel more grounded, confident, and aligned with their values.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Holistic

Specialties

Family Conflict
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+10
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with adults (no couples) and children who feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or disconnected from themselves. You may be doing everything you can to keep going—showing up for work or school, caring for others, and managing daily life—while quietly carrying anxiety, sadness, anger, or deep exhaustion. Sometimes your reactions feel bigger than expected. Sometimes life just doesn’t feel like it used to. I specialize in trauma-informed care and understand that these experiences are not signs of weakness. They are often signs that your mind and body have been working hard to cope. I believe healing happens when you feel safe, understood, and supported at your own pace. In our work together, I offer a calm and steady presence. Therapy with me is not about pushing you to “just move on” or forcing change before you’re ready. It’s about slowing down, listening to what your mind and body are holding, and creating space for relief and clarity. My role is to walk alongside you as you regain a sense of stability and reconnect with the part of you that holds resilience, strength, and the capacity for joy—even if that feels far away right now.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Eating Disorders
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
I am an LPCC in California and an LPC in Texas. My educational background consists of earning my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Master's in clinical counseling, and a Master's in Addictions. I am a National Certified Counselor and am a certified addictions counselor. My past clinical experience includes working for a crisis center where the majority of clients experienced issues related to suicide, homicide, domestic violence, and child and elder abuse. These issues impact people of all ages, races, and ethnic groups. I have also worked for a county-based permanent assisted housing development where all of the clients have experienced episodes of homelessness, and have been significantly impacted by issues of trauma, depression, addictions, domestic violence, and child abuse.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+6
Hi, I’m Natalie — a warm, collaborative therapist who works with young and older adult clients navigating life’s emotional and mental health challenges. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, or major life transitions, I provide a supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered. My approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, and Person-Centered care. This means I tailor our work to your unique needs while offering tools to help you build resilience, improve relationships, and feel more in control of your emotional well-being. As someone who has personally overcome mental health challenges, I bring deep empathy and real-life perspective to the therapy process. I know how overwhelming it can feel — and how transformative therapy can be when it’s rooted in trust, connection, and practical change. Together, we’ll work at your pace to create a path toward healing and growth. You don’t have to go through this alone.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Depression
+10
I help couples and individuals to navigate turbulent times to find their innate vitality and loving relationships. As a couples therapist, I can help you move beyond patterns of arguing and conflict. You will learn how to communicate and express yourself and be heard and received. I also help couples who are striving to find a path to either stay together or move in. I also guide individuals with financial and/or time constraints to move towards a life balancing family, work and personal passion. I have decades of experience helping people achieve a healthy, happy long life filled with joy and connection. When we work together, I listen to your story. I bring decades of experience, but you are the expert on your own life. I’ll do a deep dive to understand how your symptoms affect you. My role isn’t to diagnose or label you. Instead, I offer invitations to explore new perspectives, try different approaches, and gently challenge the patterns holding you back. I feel confident about my abilities to help you to move forward into the life you have always desired. Therapy can be a daunting experience. I appreciate your courage in pursuing help. I always bring a sense of playfulness to the journey. Things can be hard and still be fun. I look forward to hearing from you.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+10
I empower my clients to become more confident, achieve the goals they set for themselves, and to better communicate with the people around them. I aid my clients in gaining a better understanding of themselves and help them explore how to solve problems while staying aligned with their core values. I approach my work from a person-centered lens, while also utilizing CBT and solution focused practices with a dash of narrative therapy and humor. This allows my clients to feel both seen and heard, while also enabling the creation of lasting changes in their lives.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Are you a woman or man in your 30s or 40s feeling overwhelmed by work, parenting, or life changes? I am a psychotherapist who helps women navigate midlife transitions, manage anxiety, and reclaim confidence and balance. Having personally experienced the challenges of motherhood, demanding career, and divorce, I bring both professional expertise and lived experience to our work together. I integrate EMDR to process past experiences and reduce emotional distress, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) to guide you toward a meaningful life, and values-based strategies to clarify what truly matters to you. I also use the Enneagram as a tool for self-awareness and understanding relational patterns. Together, we’ll develop practical strategies for stress management, self-discovery, and creating the life you truly want—whether that means thriving in your career, strengthening relationships, or finding more peace in your everyday life.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Intelligent
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. With a passion for supporting individuals, couples, and families to navigate the complexities of relationships and personal growth, I've dedicated my career to fostering a safe and nurturing environment where my clients can explore challenges, heal, and thrive. My approach is grounded in empathy, evidence-based practices, and a deep commitment to understanding each client's unique dynamics and strengths. Whether addressing communication issues, conflict resolution, emotional intimacy, or personal development, I aim to empower my clients to achieve greater harmony, understanding, and fulfillment in their lives and relationships.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+3
I have been working with clients for many years. I am honored to work with you and to be with you through the process of self discovery and personal growth. It takes a tremendous amount of courage to push ourselves to grow. It can be difficult; however, it can also be a transformative experience that can provide great personal freedom.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
+4
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations in different community settings. I have adapted different approaches in my clinical work to fit with the populations that I serve. As a therapist, I work to help make clients feel grounded and supported in our session appointments. I strive for authenticity when working with others. I try to help clients value honesty within themselves and in others. I hope to be able to facilitate growth and change in our time together.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Empowering
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Self Esteem
+2
Hello. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. I have been licensed since July of 2006. I have a passion for assisting people through challenges with the transformative power of therapy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Grief
+6
At a young age, I came to the United States from Pakistan through an arranged marriage. My experience as a young woman fresh to this country inspired my journey to making a difference in the community through activism and therapy. I went through my own therapeutic journey and now am excited to help my clients empower themselves in their narrative paths.
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

Often rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
Hello! You have taken a big step in engaging in therapy. I hope I can be the right fit for you. I am a licensed psychotherapist with 20+ yrs clinical experience. I am a somatic therapist, which means I work with the body, brain and mental health concerns. In my practice I use talk therapy, CBT and brainspotting treatment modalities. I also process trauma and anxiety through understanding attachment styles, relational foundations and a trauma lens. As a bilingual, bicultural and 1st generation person I love working with the BIPOC community navigating that experience as well.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Humorous
Warm

Specialties

ADHD
Child or Adolescent
Life Transitions
+9
Hello! My name is Randy , and I am a clinician dedicated to providing a compassionate, inclusive, and highly adaptable therapeutic experience. My practice is built on the belief that every individual’s journey is unique, and I am committed to meeting you exactly where you are. With extensive experience working with diverse populations—including Children, Families, , Transitional Age Youth (TAY), and postgraduate professionals—I pride myself on high multicultural competence. I offer a safe, affirming space that respects all human values, gender identities, LGBTQ+ and sexually transitional consumers and social backgrounds. Whether you are navigating a life transition, exploring your identity, or managing a personal crisis, I exercise the utmost tact and sensitivity to support your unique lifestyle. My clinical approach is holistic and multifaceted. I integrate evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Behavioral Interventions to help manage immediate symptoms. Simultaneously, I utilize Attachment-based and Narrative approaches to explore the deeper stories of your life, alongside Solution-Focused therapy to help you achieve tangible goals. Because safety is the foundation of healing, my practice is rooted in trauma-informed care, ensuring your past experiences are handled with dignity. Beyond individual counseling, I have a deep background in group and family therapy, IEP facilitation, and mentorship. My experience in coaching and employee development allows me to support clients through workplace challenges and professional growth. Whether we are working through the hurdles of community reintegration or the complexities of professional life, my goal is to empower you with the resilience needed to thrive. I look forward to partnering with you to create a plan that honors your identity and supports your path toward healing and fulfillment. Welcome to a space where your voice is heard and your journey is valued.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
Trauma and PTSD
+6
Hello, I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I earned my Master’s degree from the University of Southern California and have been working with clients for the past 10 years. I work with adults ages 18 to 60 who are navigating anxiety and depression, and my passion is helping people cultivate greater self-compassion, build confidence, and feel more capable in their everyday lives.
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
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Couples Counseling
Domestic Violence
Parenting
+10
Hi! My name is Crystal Villanueva and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I have 14 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, couples, and children experiencing the challenges of anxiety, depression, grief, family conflict, relationship challenges, and intimate partner violence. My approach to therapy is grounded in the spirit of Humanistic therapy. Humanistic Therapy is based on the core belief that people are good at heart and capable of making the right choices for themselves. In therapy, this belief leads me to focus on each individual’s unique point of view and how this view can impact their choices. It further emphasizes the importance of being our authentic selves to live the most fulfilling life. I strive to create a safe environment to help clients feel comfortable to express their thoughts/emotions. I am genuine, friendly, nonjudgmental, empathetic, and interactive. I believe I am easy to talk to as I am casual in my style, but direct and focused when it comes to our work together. My journey to becoming a therapist began with my own therapy that I received as a youth and young adult; it was life-changing. I worked with a therapist that was completely accepting and non-judgmental of my faults/shortcomings and helped me work past and accept them. Because of this experience, I wanted to give back and provide the same nonjudgment safe space, and acceptance to others.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Direct
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Couples Counseling
Hello...Most of my work is Brief Emotional Therapy, 4-7 sessions, although I do have folks that have been with me for longer. I work with issues of anxiety and depression as well as relationship issues and problems with emotional intimacy, both with ourselves and others. Much of my work involves moving towards your most meaningful or valued life while accepting the pain /anxiety that inevitably comes with it I'm here to facilitate your journey on whatever you are experiencing or going through without judgment or attitude. I help manage the depressions or anxieties that come with life, cope with a crisis, or move into the growth and evolvment that are ours to have. I practice tele-therapy daily. If you see an open slot you are welcome to take it without any advance notice. Thank you, Dr. Robert Lusson
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
+3
Hi, I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist for the past 13 years. I graduated from the California Institute of Integral Studies in expressive arts therapy. I also have lived in a Zen Buddhist temple to do residential practice for five years. My goal is to help people feel better as soon as possible. Usually by the time a person enters therapy they have been under stress that has been building for a while. I help people identify and clarify what their goals are and present interventions that I have supported people using that help them feel better.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Life Transitions
+6
Hi, I'm Ana, a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's transitions, heal from trauma, and build emotional resilience. I work with young adults who are seeking understanding, clarity, and meaningful change. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their emotions, strengthen their sense of self, and move toward a life that feels more balanced and authentic.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Hello, my name is Veronica. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to providing compassionate support and professional guidance to individuals. With a strong commitment to mental health and well-being, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their challenges and work toward positive change. As a licensed social worker, I am extensively trained in a variety of evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD. Additionally, I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to support clients dealing with depression and anxiety, ensuring that my therapeutic interventions are both effective and adaptable to individual needs. I am passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of those I serve. My goal is to help clients navigate life's challenges, foster personal growth, and promote well-being through compassionate and ethical social work practice.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Crisis Intervention
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi and thanks for stopping by! My name is Diana and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I've been a social worker/therapist for over a decade and feel lucky and proud to be able to do what I get to do, which is to help and support people. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, but my work has primarily been with the adult population. My treatment has focused on trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation and mood management.
VirtualAvailable
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 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.

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 happens during the first therapy 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.