Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 398 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: 12/31/2025

Warm
Humorous

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
I am amazing. so amazing! i have life experience and work experience that i bring to the table. Would you like fries with that? If you don't like that, we can get you dessert instead. My mom always said, "dessert first". She also taught me that taking a chance on a person can change a life and alter the course towards amazing. I am amazing because she took a chance on me.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Direct
Challenging

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Suicidal Ideation
I am a compassionate and client-centered therapist dedicated to supporting teens, young adults, adults, and families as they navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in helping individuals struggling with anxiety, emotional regulation, trauma, and relationship dynamics, providing a safe and supportive space for growth. Using evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, attachment-based therapy, and trauma-informed care, I guide clients in building resilience, improving communication, and gaining confidence in themselves. My goal is to empower clients with the tools they need to create meaningful change and lead more fulfilling lives.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Holistic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Welcome—I’m Sam Moglen, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) providing therapy for individuals and couples in Berkeley, CA, and throughout California via online sessions. Whether you’re struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges, therapy can help you find clarity and feel more connected to yourself and those around you. I am trained in a range of modalities including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), the Rest and Restore Protocol, the Safe and Sound Protocol, Polyvagal Theory, and somatic therapy approaches in a way that feels safe and comfortable for you.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Holistic

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Luke is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a background in emergency medical services, nonprofit organizations, and hospital emergency departments. He is a United States Coast Guard veteran located in California. Luke has a bachelor's degree in psychology, a master's degree in social work, and a master's degree in public administration. Luke emphasizes healthy habit development, consistent focus on goals, and communication skills. Luke believes in solution focused therapy, positive psychology, reducing substance use, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to improve quality of life and achieve goals.
VirtualAvailable
Intelligent
Open-minded

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+10
I’m Dr. Nathaniel Woods, a clinical psychologist with over 17 years of experience in providing therapeutic services. Having served as an executive director of mental health institutions in Nevada and California, I bring a wealth of experience to my practice. I focus on creating long-lasting, supportive therapeutic relationships that often span several years. My approach is both professional and compassionate, dedicated to symptom relief and ensuring that every client feels truly valued and heard.
VirtualAvailable
Intelligent
Empowering

Specialties

Career Counseling
LGBTQ
Self Esteem
+9
At my core, I am a therapist who believes in the transformative power of depth, empathy, humor, and the arts. I’ve spent my career helping people understand themselves more fully — not only by reducing symptoms, but by uncovering the narratives, emotions, and self-limiting beliefs that have kept them small or stuck. I work from a humanistic and psychoanalytic foundation, integrating mindfulness, ACT, and solution-focused strategies to help clients access resilience, self-compassion, and real change. I bring a warm, grounded, and creative presence into the room. My background as an artist and writer shapes my work: I’m attentive to symbolism, story, imagination, and the deeper layers of a person’s emotional life. Humor is also one of my most natural tools, not to avoid pain, but to help clients feel safe, open, and connected as they explore difficult experiences. Across corporate mental health, trauma work, refugee support, and private practice, I’ve seen how people flourish when they’re permitted to be fully themselves. I help clients build self-esteem through honesty, curiosity, and acceptance; loosen rigid patterns; and move beyond the internalized messages or roles that no longer serve them.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Career Counseling
Family Conflict
Self Esteem
+10
Jennifer is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has been in the field for over 8 years treating individuals who suffer from mental illness. Jennifer’s therapeutic approach is collaborative and client-centered. Jennifer is a good fit for someone who would like a solution-focused and strategic experience in therapy. Jennifer aims to work with clients to assist with achieving realistic goals to complement daily functioning. Jennifer works with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, overcoming trauma, and work-related stressors. Jennifer has received additional certifications in anger management, victims of batterers, domestic violence, sexual assault, and trauma. Jennifer strives to work alongside you on your journey to assist in cultivating a brave space of restorative growth using collaborative problem-solving strategies. Jennifer is ideal for clients who would like to receive short-term therapeutic services.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Family Conflict
+3
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Master Degree from California State University and I've been practicing therapy for over 12 years. I grew up in Italy and moved to the US 42 years ago. I work with adult men and women struggling with trauma, anxiety, life transitions, relationships. I'm passionate about helping them live more fulfilling relationships and peaceful life.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Open-minded

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.
VirtualAvailable

Frequently rebooked

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.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
+2
Are you struggling with what's on your plate, whether you are doing "what you are supposed to be doing," or feeling like an imposter at times? Are you transitioning into a new phase, or ready to do something different? Are you feeling urgency to finally do the inner work so you can live in alignment with your innermost desires and values? If so, I look forward to connecting with you. <br> I can help you process and move through what’s holding you back right now from flourishing. Let’s work together to manage anxiety, low self esteem, depression, and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working, help you find more clarity, and figure out what will serve you. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you are making the right choice. Give yourself permission to take this time for yourself. You deserve a space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the challenges that have brought you here. Let's work together! I use a variety of therapy styles and tailor my approach to your needs. Mindfulness, connecting to creativity, and a culturally informed social-justice lens also inform my practice and are important to me. I often assign homework between sessions. These might look like exercises or activities to engage in, or prompts to consider and reflect upon. I want for you to feel heard, understood, and validated. At the same time, know that I will challenge you when it is appropriate, and encourage you to experiment with doing things differently than you may have done before. Relief and healing is possible, change and flourishing is possible, but not without effort on your part. Therapy is about getting the support you need, while learning ways to cope, recover, grow, and thrive.
VirtualAvailable
No reviews yet
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New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who helps adults ages 18 to 65+ navigate anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationship stress, and emotional overwhelm. I provide a warm, supportive, culturally sensitive space where you can feel understood and empowered. My goal is to help you build insight, strengthen coping skills, heal past wounds, and create a more balanced and fulfilling life.
VirtualAvailable
Humorous
Direct

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Mood Disorders
Substance Misuse
+1
Hi and welcome! I’m Anna, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker here to support you through the ups, downs, and everything in between. For the past four years, I’ve helped clients navigate anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, and big life transitions in a space that’s completely safe and judgment-free. My approach? Real conversations, practical coping skills, and building healthy boundaries—with yourself and others—so you can show up as the best version of you. Together, we’ll tackle challenges like overthinking, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, or feeling stuck, and create a plan that feels authentic and doable. Therapy doesn’t have to feel scary or stiff—it can be a space where you get to explore, heal, and grow. If you’re ready to make moves toward a life that feels balanced and meaningful, I’m here for you.
VirtualAvailable
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.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Family Conflict
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Hello/Hola, I am/soy Candy! It takes courage to address your emotional, spiritual and mental well-being. One of the hardest challenges in life is to discover a new path when you're feeling stuck. You have just taken the hardest step by seeking support from an experienced licensed mental health professional. If you're dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions or have experienced a traumatic event, I want you to know that you're not alone. I use tele-therapy to offer a safe, non-judgemental space where we can explore your thoughts, feelings and underlying issues that may be contributing to your well-being. Se necesita de mucha valentía para lidiar con tu bienestar emocional, espiritual y mental. Uno de los desafíos más difíciles de la vida es descubrir un nuevo camino cuando nos sentimos estancados. Tu acabas de dar el paso más difícil al buscar el apoyo de una profesional de salud mental con experiencia. Si estás lidiando con ansiedad, depresión, estrés, transiciones de vida o has pasado por un evento traumático, quiero que sepas que no estás solo(a/x/e). Yo utilizo la terapia para ofrecer un espacio seguro y sin prejuicios donde podemos explorar tus pensamientos, sentimientos y problemas subyacentes que pueden estar influenciando tu bienestar.
VirtualAvailable

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.
VirtualAvailable
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
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Foster Care/Adoption
+5
I am a licensed therapist with a passion for supporting individuals on their journey toward emotional well-being and personal growth. With a strong background in mindfulness and yoga, I believe in the transformative power of integrating mind-body practices to promote healing and resilience. My therapeutic approach is grounded in evidence-based techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and crisis de-escalation strategies, to help clients manage anxiety, depression, and life's challenges with greater ease and clarity. I work collaboratively with my clients to create a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where they can explore their emotions, build coping skills, and develop greater self-awareness. Whether you are facing overwhelming stress, struggling with mental health concerns, or navigating a crisis, I am here to support you in cultivating balance, emotional well-being, and inner peace.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Life Transitions
Older Adults
Women's Issues
+4
Providing psychotherapeutic services to those seeking emotional sustenance and healthy psychological support during these very stressful times. I have been working in this field for approximately 20 years now. My experience is with all school grade levels, as well as adults from all walks of life. I find that the ideal patient is open-minded (willing to look at things from different perspectives), consistent (with attendance/self-care/psychoeducation), and humble to learn. My patients have described me as kind, trustworthy, accepting, an excellent mentor, dependable, and down-to-earth. Short-term and long-term assistance provided for: Adults (18+) Individual Therapy Anxiety Depression Coping Skills ADHD Asperger’s Syndrome Autism Spectrum Disorder Codependency Developmental Disorders Intellectual Disability Life Transitions Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Spirituality Stress Women’s Issues Mood Disorders Thinking Disorders Trauma Certified
VirtualAvailable

Frequently rebooked

Empowering
Warm
Holistic

Specialties

Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Trauma and PTSD
+5
Hi, my name is Kristin I am a LCSW licensed by the state of California. I have a wealth of experience as a psychotherapist working for the state of California in various clinical social work roles. I am a EMDR trained Therapist. I am also a medical social worker, with experience working in hospice and dialysis. I am a trauma informed therapist to assist clients in the healing process and move clients from victim to victory. I believe clients who are living with past trauma, and heavy emotions need support. I am especially helpful at helping my clients find the ground when everything feels out of control. I am ready, willing and able to support your confidence about ways to handle the turmoil that life brings.
VirtualAvailable

Frequently rebooked

Solution oriented
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+10
Franco Romualdez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Irvine, CA. His expertise lies in helping young adults and adults work through their anxiety, depression, or chronic stress. Many of his clients are going through periods of major life changes such as starting or ending relationships, finishing school and beginning their career, or combatting high levels of stress. These situations result in feelings such as loneliness, frustration, or low self-esteem, which can also impact relationships. Franco provides knowledgeable guidance to those searching for a pathway forward. Franco’s goal is to connect clients with a greater sense of meaning in their lives, helping them connect with fulfillment across their work and personal lives, and especially in their relationships. His sessions are collaborative as he takes clients through Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), encouraging them to engage in psychological flexibility and learning more about their core values. He also teaches clients tools and exercises from positive psychology, giving clients strategies to implement throughout the week to help them shift away from negative patterns. Franco earned a Master’s degree in Counseling from California State University, Fullerton. He has nearly 10 years of experience as a therapist and draws from his personal life experiences as a husband and father. His therapy style is communicative and understanding, and his clients find themselves more hopeful about living fulfilling, peaceful lives.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+6
I'm a licensed MFT #81396. My ultimate goal in my therapy work is to help my clients believe in themselves as much as I believe in them. I work with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and countless life issues. While I am deeply humanistic, I also frequently employ elements from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to challenge clients' negative self-talk, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help them navigate big feelings. My work is informed by Object Relations theory, in which the therapist provides the client with empathy and attunement. Additionally, I am trained in EMDR, which is an invaluable tool for clients struggling with trauma.
VirtualAvailable
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

Frequently rebooked

Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Depression
Coping Skills
+4
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my undergrad from California State University of San Bernardino, my Masters and Doctorate from Argosy University in Southern California. I have been Practicing in Mental Health for over 10 years. I have worked with children, adolescent to adults from behavior issue, family to working with those individuals incarcerated.
VirtualAvailable
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
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.