Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 819 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: 10/30/2026

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
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
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
Warm
Open-minded
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Women's Issues
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to helping in navigate life’s transitions with strength and resilience. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and practical I use evidence-based methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotional Focus Therapy (EFT) while honoring the unique story and needs of each client. I believe healing happens when we create a safe space for growth, and my goal is to empower you to build healthier relationships with yourself and others.
VirtualAvailable
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.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic
Specialties
Grief
Life Transitions
Older Adults
+10
PLEASE NOTE: I specialize in Gerontology. I believe in empowering older adults by fostering independence, resilience and sense of identity. Aging is a journey that should be met with dignity, respect, and opportunities for growth. By actively listening, providing tailored support, and encouraging self-determination, I can help older adults maintain their autonomy and confidence. Resilience is nurtured through meaningful connections, purposeful activities, and a focus on strengths rather than limitations. I am committed to honoring an individual's experiences, celebrating their uniqueness, and creating environments where people feel valued and capable. I challenge stereotypes about aging and promote a vision of later life filled with possibility and fulfillment.
VirtualAvailable
Intelligent
Authentic
Direct
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
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+6
Dan Main, LMFT is a trauma informed psychotherapist providing Telehealth as well as in person services in Lafayette, CA. He is EMDR trained and utilizes other models such Internal Family Systems Therapy and Comprehensive Resource Model to help with symptoms of trauma including anxiety, depression, and more. He has been licensed since 2015 and worked in a variety of settings, most recently in community mental health, before engaging in private practice full time. Dan primarily provides individual psychotherapy for individuals age 14 and older. Dan has attended numerous silent meditation retreats over the past 15 years and often integrates mindfulness practices into his work with clients.
VirtualAvailable
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
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
Authentic
Intelligent
Warm
Specialties
ADHD
Child or Adolescent
Trauma and PTSD
+10
My name is Jacob Lapides and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California and I have been in this field for over 15 years. I am a Holistic therapist who likes to focus on healing an individual from all aspects including mind-body wellness. I bring an eclectic skill set of many different therapeutic approaches and orientations so that I can use different techniques to find the best tools and interventions to help and support whoever I am working with.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Solution oriented
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+8
Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my master's from California State Dominquez Hills and have been practicing for 15 years. I help adults and adolescents who are experiencing life challenges become more productive in their personal lives and in their community. My specialties are in the areas of relationship challenges and clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, mood, anger, impulsivity, and self-esteem. Moreover, I have experience with families dealing with child abuse, family custody challenges, substance abuse counseling (men/women), psychotherapy (men/women/adolescents), and group services. My clinical training and therapeutic skills have helped individuals navigate life's experiences through their ups and downs. I am confident in utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Coping Skills Development with a client-centered and solution-focused approach. I focus closely on what I can offer to help, taking one step at a time, keeping the communication active, and empowering individuals to concentrate on self-care. Most of all, to build individuals' motivation to enhance their everyday living.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Empowering
Authentic
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
LGBTQ
+14
I have been in the field for twenty six years and have learned to adjust to what the client is presenting in the session to achieve a sense of safety. I work with what the client is presenting and focus on how to guide the client to work through their presenting problem. I have had a history of working with a variety of clients and cultures. I started working in a therapeutic community with at risk adolescents. I later worked with court referred gang members. From there I worked with the homeless and the LGBTQ Community on addictions. I opened a private practice in a more suburban environment.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Crisis Intervention
+10
Hi, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in California. I received my Masters Degree in Counseling from Cal State Northridge in 1998, worked in Social Work for the past 24 years and for the past few years have been counseling couples and individuals. I help people deal with their issues from a strength-based compassionate perspective. I am here to support and encourage you while also challenging you to become your healthy and best self.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
Are you feeling stuck, disconnected in your relationships, or noticing patterns that you don’t fully understand? You may be wanting to explore deeper—unpacking core beliefs or unresolved experiences that are impacting how you relate to others and to yourself. This process of gaining insight and gently challenging those patterns can be a meaningful step toward healing and growth. I have experience working with BIPOC individuals, women navigating anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, and individuals experiencing challenges with emotion regulation. I also support clients who are working toward feeling more like themselves again—reconnecting with a sense of balance, clarity, and emotional grounding. Finding a therapist who feels like the right fit is an important part of the process. If what you’re reading resonates with you, I would be honored to support you in this work. Our sessions—whether weekly or biweekly—are a dedicated space for you to slow down, reflect, and focus on your needs. My current availability is during daytime hours, between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM, and I am not offering evening appointments at this time. I look forward to walking alongside you in your healing journey.
VirtualAvailable
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
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Spirituality
+10
Hello, my name is Brigitta. I empower individuals to take back their lives by identifying their strengths, identity, and learn useful skills to help develop a future with hope and expectation. Together, we will explore what is making you stuck by utilizing a holistic approach and address issues of the mind, body, and spirit to strengthen you as an individual. I utilize elements of various modalities with each individual to find out where the wounds began, to close the doors to an unresolved past, to reframe negative core beliefs and its maladaptive influence, and to work towards healthy goals for your future. I can integrate faith-based counseling to build resilience and hope at your request. Our sessions will be a place of safety, growth, and rejuvenation for your soul. I will meet you with a non-judgmental and compassionate approach. As we build our therapeutic relationship, the process of healing and restoration will come. I cannot wait to meet you!
VirtualAvailable
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.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Direct
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+14
You are emotionally, mentally, and physically exhausted! You recognize there is a problem, but don't know how to solve it. You are caught in the cycle of overwhelm. If you continue down this road all you will find is powerlessness and hopelessness. You don't have to stay trapped. My focus is to empower you to take back your life & become the best version of yourself.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Direct
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+6
Hello, I'm a licensed professional therapist practicing in California and Virginia since 2003. I have such respect and admiration for my clients because seeking therapy is very courageous. My goal for your therapy journey is to develop a relationship where you can feel trust so that you can become your authentic self. My therapeutic style is very eclectic and versatile. I want to provide a warm environment for you to feel better and grow. I specialize in treating you as a person and starting in a place where you are comfortable while adjusting to your needs as we move forward. I have expertise in treating depression/anxiety disorders, grief/loss, infertility, trauma, and relationship conflicts.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented
Specialties
LGBTQ
Racism
Trauma and PTSD
+4
Hello! My name is Tiphanie. I am an EMDR trained LCSW who is bicultural and bilingual in English and French. If you are looking for a supportive space to navigate feelings of depression, anxiety or overwhelm, a space to self-reflect, or address cycles of self-sabotage, let’s meet. In my practice, I draw from trauma-informed care, client-centered approaches, culturally and racially responsive lenses, as well as LGBTQIA+ affirming modalities. I also value holding a safe, creative, and inclusive space.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
LGBTQ
Men's Issues
+2
I believe that life is a beautiful thing, but at times, hurdles and trials can obscure us from seeing that vision. Do mornings greet you with anxiety or sadness? Have you noticed that your motivation within you has dwindled? Hi, I'm Ben, and my passion is collaborating with individuals like you to help them rediscover their very best selves. I thrive on connecting with my clients right where they are. Whether you're wrestling with depression, grappling with anxiety, or simply feeling adrift, I invite you to take the initial step and schedule an appointment with me! We will work together to chart a new course to rekindle your appreciation for the beauty surrounding us in life. My primary approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which empowers you to unravel negative behavior patterns, allowing you to break free from thoughts and actions that might be constraining your happiness.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Sex Therapy
+9
My name is Jason Stewart, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) with a genuine passion for helping others. With nine years of experience in the field, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations, including couples, families, individuals, and the LGBTQ+ community. Throughout my career, I have found that connecting with my clients on a deep and authentic level is at the core of effective therapy. I bring empathy, warmth, and curiosity into every session, creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and life's challenges. Whether you are struggling with relationship issues, navigating complex family dynamics, facing personal obstacles, or seeking to understand and embrace your own identity, I am here to walk alongside you on your unique journey. In addition to my professional approach, I believe in the power of humor as a therapeutic tool. Laughter can bring lightness to difficult situations and foster resilience. By combining my years of experience, genuine empathy, warmth, curiosity, and a touch of humor, I strive to create a therapeutic experience that is both enriching and transformative. If you are seeking a therapist who values your unique experiences, understands the intricacies of diverse populations, and can provide a safe space for exploration and growth, I invite you to connect with me. Together, we can embark on a path of healing and create a life filled with fulfillment and well-being.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+8
Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. Prior to becoming licensed in 2017, I worked with children and youth in public and private schools as a Behavior Interventionist for over a decade. I also worked in a mental health non-profit providing counseling and other social services to culturally, spiritually, and linguistically diverse populations. My expertise includes working with victims of crimes and domestic violence, immigrants and refugees, and individuals from the South West Asian North African (SWANA) region.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Open-minded
Specialties
Addiction
Child or Adolescent
Depression
+5
Hello! I have been a therapist for almost 15 years and have worked with children, teens, individuals, and families. I live in northern California and have been in private practice for 5 years. I am told I am friendly, I laugh when things are funny (never at you and always with you!), and take my role seriously. I have worked in residential treatment, psychiatric care, family courts, and with individuals who have been incarcerated. My wide range of experience has allowed me to see all different types of people and help them all the same. I currently work with clients who are children, teens, and adults. They experience a wide range of challenges and are mid to higher functioning.
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.