Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 836 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: 10/18/2025

Rated 4.8 stars out of 5, 49 ratings

Bridget Delaney

LMFT, 9 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi there, I'm Bridget, Our world is a busy and ever-changing place. With these changes can come stressors that can lead to anxiety, depression and interpersonal struggles. Do you find yourself unable to focus, or maybe struggling to enjoy things you once loved? Sometimes, we all need a place to be heard and understood. Sometimes, we just need some space to share and explore our own emotions in a non-judgemental and unbiased space. There is no "one size fits all" approach to therapy, I am honored to have the opportunity to work with you to achieve your goals and find peace. I practice an open, empathic approach to therapy using multiple different evidence-based modalities to help find a good fit for you as an individual. Reaching out for help can be difficult and takes a great deal of strength, I am so glad you are here and taking these first steps. Whether you are dealing with interpersonal struggles, depression, anxiety, trauma, life stressors or other concerns, I will meet you with compassion and understanding, and walk alongside you on this journey to healing and growth.
Virtual
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Rated 4.6 stars out of 5, 93 ratings

Christopher Brown

LPCC, 14 years of experience

Direct
Humorous
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Hi, possible client! You may be going through a stressful moment in your life. You may have had some complex trauma occur in your past. Or you may have a teen who is experiencing some mental health difficulties. Maybe you're looking for someone who may have more in common with you to help you through your challenges. Whether you are looking for a space to feel supported and discuss your trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship, life goals, or to simply feel seen, I may be the therapist for you.
Virtual
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 52 ratings

Lester Renee Jones Jr.

LCSW, 20 years of experience

Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Coping Skills
Depression
Spirituality
+8
I utilize an eclectic NONJUDGEMENTAL nontraditional approach…Focusing on exploring, identifying, and clarifying past traumas and maladaptive behaviors and beliefs causing physical, psychological, and emotional pain (suffering). Assisted guidance in dissolving and eliminating pathological behaviors that cause significant impairments in one’s daily functioning via the implementation of universal techniques and principles rooted in (Self-knowledge, Self-mastery, Self-love, Self-analysis and radical Self-acceptance) allowing YOU to accelerate your HEALING. Believe in the knowing the poor choices, miscalculations (errors), mistakes, and failures are our life lessons, gifts, master teachers, as they will ALWAYS bring the greatest inner-standing of ourselves and truly illuminates our path (PURPOSEFUL EXISTENCE). Discover the “Law Of Attraction” and meta-physical teachings revealing “YOU ARE YOUR GREATEST HEALER…AS YOU ARE THE HEALING” as well as “THE ULTIMATE CREATOR” of your world, your reality, and your life as every second of your existence is EVIDENCED by your beliefs, your internal dialogue, and how you are languaging and vibrating In this physical realm of existence. BELIEVE IN THE KNOWING YOU ARE A PHENOMENAL BEING DESERVING OF BALANCE, HARMONY, PEACE, AND LOVE in every aspect of your being!!!
Virtual
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Rated 4.8 stars out of 5, 88 ratings

Teresa Burbach

LMFT, 23 years of experience

Open-minded
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Hello! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has been working with individuals, couples and families for twenty three years. I use interventions based on cognitive behavioral techniques to help you reach your goals and overcome patterns of behavior that are not working well for you. I believe you are the expert in your own life and strive to work with you to understand and move forward toward your goals.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 14 ratings

Amanda Gonyer

LMFT, 6 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Spirituality
+3
My name is Amanda Gonyer and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I identify as she/her, third generation Mexican American, bicultural, spiritual, and LGBTQ allied. I graduated with my Masters in Marital Family Therapy from CSU Dominguez Hills and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Sonoma State University. I am very artsy and love to paint in my free time. I can usually be found trying a new restaurant, doing yoga in the park, or reading a good book with a good cup of coffee in a coffee shop.
Virtual
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 35 ratings

Maria Arellano

LMFT, 10 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
I’m Maria Arellano, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I’m bilingual in English/Spanish. I have 10 years of experience helping individuals and families improve their mental health and well-being by developing coping skills to overcome life challenges. I have experience assisting adult individuals presenting issues related to anxiety, depression, grief, substance abuse, anger management, PTSD, and stress due to life transitions. In collaboration with clients, I assist them in setting measurable and achievable goals according to each client’s needs and presenting problem as well as identifying the steps to accomplish the desired outcomes.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 43 ratings

Kristi Miedecke

LMFT, 4 years of experience

Solution oriented
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Coping Skills
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Southern California. I received my Master's Degree from Capella University and have been practicing for 4 years. I am certified in Equine Assisted-Psychotherapy through EAGALA, and love to implement the presence of horses in sessions when possible for clients in Riverside county and surrounding areas. I help families and individuals navigate life's challenges by providing a supportive space to explore experiences, build resilience, and create meaningful change.
Virtual
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 16 ratings

Courtney Carlson

LMFT, 9 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
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.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 28 ratings

Rebecca Allgeier

LCSW, 40 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Chronic Illness
Coping Skills
+9
Hello , I am a licensed social worker based in Ohio. And I also am licensed in California. I have been practicing for close to 40 years, so have a great deal of professional and life experience, that I can apply to my work with clients. I am motivated to help adults of any age, move forward with their lives. And there to help clients develop healthy skills that they can utilize, to become their "best selves." My approach is short term/solution focused. I also see myself as a life coach for many of my clients.
Virtual
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 49 ratings

Noor Aljawad

LCSW, 7 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Open-minded
Warm

Specialties

Mood Disorders
Self-Harming
Suicidal Ideation
+3
Hello! As a licensed clinical therapist, I provide respectful and compassionate services to help you identify your goals, and support you in coping with challenges along the way to achieving them. I have a social justice orientation that recognizes the impact of oppression, discrimination, and marginalization on mental health. I believe that everyone deserves to be treated fairly and kindly, and that our behaviors serve a function, whether unhealthy or healthy, understood or misunderstood. I work with clients who struggle with various issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, relationship problems, identity, and self-esteem. I use evidence-based approaches that are tailored to your unique needs and preferences. Some of the techniques I use include teaching skills around emotion regulation and distress tolerance, incorporating narrative therapy practices and cultural relational understanding of trauma and healing. My aim is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. I will listen to you with empathy and curiosity, and help you find new ways of understanding and effectively responding to what is coming your way. Together, we will work on developing your strengths, fortifying your resiliency, and further embodying your values in your day-to-day life. If you are interested in working with me, please contact me to schedule a consultation. I look forward to hearing from you and supporting you on your journey.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 3 ratings

Karim Khalil

LMFT, 6 years of experience

Solution oriented
Direct
Authentic

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) based in Irvine, California, and I work with clients throughout the state via tele-health. I work with Adults and specialize in anxiety and stress disorders using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help my clients explore their triggers, emotions, develop coping skills, and achieve positive life changes.
Virtual
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 8 ratings

Sharlene Hanaway

LMFT, 16 years of experience

Empowering
Solution oriented
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
+5
Hello, and Thank You for reading my profile! My name is Sharlene Hanaway. I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for many years. During that time, I have worked with many clients who have been deeply challenged by their life circumstances and everyday issues. My clients have tried many different ways to help themselves but need fresh eyes and someone who can help them change their perspectives about the things they can change and let go of the things they can not change. It is a collaborative relationship where we find what works for you! I welcome you to work with me, so you can move on from the issues that are getting in the way of your living the life you want.
Virtual
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Rated 4.8 stars out of 5, 32 ratings

Cynthia Sloan

LMFT, 10 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Solution oriented
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+4
Hi there, I'm Cynthia. Do you feel overwhelmed and exhausted? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help individuals manage anxiety and depression. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a strength based approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness and supportive therapy to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hang-ups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!
Virtual
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Rated 4.8 stars out of 5, 27 ratings

Holly Merrill

LMFT, 10 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+3
Hello! Are you struggling with anxiety or feelings of depression? As a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I can help guide you through these uncomfortable feelings and support you in reaching your mental health goals. My goal is to guide you to develop tools and insights to help you navigate life's challenges and lead your most fulfilling life.
Virtual
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 56 ratings

Candace Delis

LPCC, 6 years of experience

Authentic
Direct
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Insomnia/Sleep Issues
+6
Hi, I’m Candace — a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s in Community Counseling from Lakeland University and a Bachelor’s in Sociology from UW-Stevens Point. I’m a straightforward, no-fluff therapist who believes the best work happens when you feel safe enough to be fully yourself. My clients often tell me I’m not a “typical” therapist — and they’re right. I’m progressive, direct, sometimes sarcastic, and always focused on creating a space where you don’t have to pretend. I work well with people who want honesty, humor, and real conversations — whether you’re dealing with anxiety, relationship issues, burnout, identity exploration, or just feeling stuck. I’m an animal lover (my dogs are basically coworkers), I have tattoos, and I’m not easily rattled. You won’t shock me, and you don’t have to filter yourself here. If you’re looking for a therapist who keeps it real, creates a safe space, and isn’t afraid to challenge you when needed — with compassion and maybe a little dry humor — I might be a good fit.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 4 ratings

Michael Chavez

LCSW, 12 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Chronic Illness
Substance Misuse
+2
Hi, my name is Michael (Mike) Chavez, LCSW, and I provide individual therapy to adults facing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship issues. My therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy, active listening, and collaboration. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and supported. Together, we’ll explore what’s not working in your life and develop practical tools and strategies to create positive, lasting change. Sometimes that means identifying and replacing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors with ones that better align with your values and goals. My goal is to help you feel more empowered, balanced, and resilient.
Virtual
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 35 ratings

Angie Douma

LMFT, 10 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
+6
Hi, I’m Angie. Are you ready to make some positive changes that will improve your life? Maybe you’re suffering from depression, or anxiety is imposing limitations on how you live your life. Your journey and the life experience that led you here can be complicated, multidimensional, and diverse. I believe the approach to your psychotherapy should be as dynamic as you are and shouldn’t be limited to a “one theory fits all” methodology. You don’t have to face these challenges alone.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 3 ratings

Ninel Simonian

LMFT, 13 years of experience

Solution oriented
Direct
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Phobias
Trauma and PTSD
Great to meet you! Hi. I'm Ninel. After receiving my Master’s in Counseling Psychology/Marriage and Family Therapy and spending a few thousand hours on internships, I became a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I’ve worked in various settings, from psychiatric hospitals and residential facilities to my practice, in the last ten years. A bit about my approach to therapy Today’s life doesn’t give us the luxury of spare time. We need effective, fast fixes that enable us to get back on our feet and wrestle with life and its demands. I continuously look for opportunities to improve my skill set as a psychotherapist to provide the best possible treatment to my clients. I utilize leading-edge techniques that allow me to help you effectively and efficiently. I’m direct, to the point, don’t sugar-coat things, and my clients love me for that.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 61 ratings

Keren Cabrera

LMFT, 7 years of experience

Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+3
I am a bilingual and first generation Honduran American Marriage and Family Therapist who is based in California, born and raised in Los Angeles area. I received my masters at Pepperdine University and have been practicing therapy for the past 5 years. Over the past couple of years I have been working with young and older adults dealing with depression, anxiety and past traumas such as sexual, physical and emotional abuse.
Virtual
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Rated 4.6 stars out of 5, 79 ratings

Heather Barbatsis

LCSW, 19 years of experience

Empowering
Direct
Authentic

Specialties

ADHD
Coping Skills
Couples Counseling
+10
Hello, I'm Heather, a seasoned counselor dedicated to providing compassionate support to individuals navigating life's challenges. With over 20 years of experience in Social Work and Counseling, including service as a Navy Veteran, I bring a wealth of expertise and understanding to my practice. As an Author, I've authored books aimed at simplifying complex medical and mental health issues, such as Hospice, Home Health, and Palliative Care. My commitment to enhancing accessibility and understanding in these areas underscores my passion for empowering individuals to take charge of their well-being. In my counseling approach, I prioritize active listening and client-centered care. Your growth and goals are at the forefront of our sessions, as I work collaboratively with you to navigate the path toward healing and personal fulfillment. In addition to individual counseling, I specialize in couples therapy, helping partners navigate complex issues like communication breakdowns, conflict resolution, and rebuilding trust. Through tailored interventions and empathetic support, I assist couples in cultivating deeper understanding, connection, and resilience within their relationships. I also offer individual counseling for personal growth, healing, and support, providing a safe and nurturing space for clients to explore their innermost thoughts and emotions on their journey towards greater well-being and fulfillment. Insight and progress can often be achieved in just one session, though the benefits of ongoing therapy are profound. Whether you're stepping into counseling for the first time or continuing your therapeutic journey, my objective remains the same: to provide you with the compassionate support and guidance you deserve. Your willingness to engage in therapy is deeply appreciated, and I am here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 35 ratings

Art Imla

LMFT, 10 years of experience

Solution oriented
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Self Esteem
+1
Hi, I'm a licensed marriage, family therapist out of California with over a decade of experience in therapy. I have my master's of counseling and a family man dedicated to helping others free themselves from their own trappings. Everyone has a unique journey in life and often times, navigating it on own is what we think we're supposed to do. What if there was another way? That's where I would love to come in and support you. I will be in your corner as you navigate life, where I can cheer you on and call you out. Too often, folks think the burden they have is only for themselves to bear. I want people to know that they are not alone and they don't have to face things alone.
Virtual
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 11 ratings

Rosely Hernandez

LMFT, 9 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based out of California. I have been in practice for approximately 10 years now, helping families manage and overcome challenges that life brings. I have assisted adolescents with managing through challenging emotions. I have assisted young adults in managing through life transitions and developmental milestones. I have assisted many others in managing and overcoming traumas.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 21 ratings

Savannah Hoffman

LCSW, 11 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Open-minded
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+9
My name is Savannah and I want to thank you for considering me as a partner on your journey to inner growth, safety, and peace. Psychotherapy is an endeavor that can feel uncomfortable at times, but together we can work to troubleshoot your "hang-ups" and insecurities to smooth out your path ahead. Do you find that no matter how hard you try, you continue to gravitate towards situations that cause you emotional pain, that leave you feeling exposed and vulnerable? Do you wonder why other people in your life seem so happy but you feel like you just can't "get it right?" Do you want to learn more about how and why it sometimes feels like you are your own worst enemy to progress? There is resolution to what you're experiencing and I want to work with you on your personalized quest for growth and safety. What have you been through? What recordings have been stuck on-loop in your mind? What kinds of characters have you crossed paths with in your life? Let's work together to figure it out and get you "un-jammed." I graduated with a Master of Social Work from Tulane University and I am licensed in the state of California to practice independently (LCSW #76380). I have years of experience working in a variety of psychiatric settings; when I am not seeing clients on this platform, I continue to work today in a local inpatient psychiatric hospital.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 4 ratings

Lisa Orraca

LMFT, 10 years of experience

Empowering
Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Life Transitions
I am a very straightforward, direct clinician. I work best with motivated clients who may not have the answers but are ready and willing to do the work. I have significant experience working with clients at all levels of care in substance use and mental health treatment. I enjoy untangling ruptures and attachment styles to provide insight around what the underlying issues you are currently struggling with. I am proud and excited to launch my private practice to focus on this client base.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 15 ratings

Christina Flynn

LCSW, 7 years of experience

Warm
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Post Partum
+10
Hello, my name is Christina and I am passionate about serving those who have been suffering and are looking for real solutions to their problems. I look forward to helping you meet your long and short term goals through our collaborative and therapeutic work together. I have 7+ years of post grad experience treating children, adults, families, former foster youth and incarcerated adults in a variety of mental health settings.
Virtual
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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.

What are the "Clients say I'm" badges?

Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.

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.