Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 439 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: 1/5/2026

Open-minded
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Self Esteem
Serious Mental Illness
Being a therapist is a lifelong passion for me and is rooted in my dedication to supporting adults, children, families, and communities in building safety, resilience, and hope. My journey has taken me from my home county of Santa Cruz where I advocated and ran groups for youth living in situations including domestic violence from 2011-2013, to working as a shelter counselor in Oakland for youth 13-21 from 2016-2018. I worked in serving famillies with San Francisco Child and Family Services, where I partnered with families navigating reunification with their children while providing psychoeducation and crisis counseling during critical moments from 2018-2022. I have been licensed with my LCSW since May 2025 and focused my prior professional development around harm reduction and culturally focused treatment, aligning with my commitment to social justice and culturally responsive care.
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
Intelligent

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+10
My mission as your therapist is to support you with goal-oriented outcomes utilizing solutions focused objectives towards a more realized, actualized, and authentic functioning self. My vision is to help you learn to reframe your narrative through healthy self-reflection, introspection and continuous personal growth to live life in the present moment by embracing exploration of the human condition through your lens. I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with an all-inclusive, person-centered, humanistic and holistic approach to psychotherapy, which means I listen to you and focus on your concerns foremost- you're in charge! I incorporate multiple modalities, all populations and any beneficial counseling orientations into my therapeutic practice, with a core focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness based interventions utilizing behavioral modification principles.
VirtualAvailable
Open-minded
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Men's Issues
+8
I'd say my upbringing inspired me from my home to school. I have seen and heard mental health being mentioned as important and encouraged to take care of. I'd say full circle of having gone to therapy, becoming a therapist, and providing therapy is rewarding in itself, I'd have to put a paragraph explaining why, so I'll leave it as that. I look at therapy as a unique relationship that both mirrors and overlaps qualities of a good friend, parent, sibling, partner, etc., where both the therapist and client focus on tackling the concerns he/she presents in therapy.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Humorous

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience providing psychotherapy to adolescents and adults across a range of emotional and behavioral concerns. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is supportive, respectful, and non-judgmental, where clients feel safe to explore their experiences openly. I believe that emotional distress is a natural response to life’s challenges and that, with appropriate support, individuals can develop insight, resilience, and effective coping strategies. I am committed to working collaboratively with clients from diverse backgrounds and identities, including LGBTQIA+ and gender-diverse individuals, and I prioritize creating an affirming and inclusive therapeutic space.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Hi there, I'm Steven. Do you feel that life has become hard to handle? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health, or maybe the things that used to make you feel productive? When was the last time you were kind to yourself? I help people manage their distressing mood changes and unexpected stresses. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a holistic approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. We will work to uncover the "healthy" you that has been stymied by the tough circumstances you find yourself in. Let's do this together. 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 your challenges.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+3
Hi there, I'm Kristen! I’m an LCSW licensed in Michigan and California with over 11 years of experience helping high-achieving women and young adults find balance, purpose, and peace without spending years in therapy. My work is designed for those who are ready to make real, lasting change — to quiet the anxiety, overcome imposter syndrome, and break free from the cycle of burnout. I take a collaborative, results-oriented approach that blends evidence-based therapy with career-focused insight and practical business tools to help you grow both personally and professionally. You’ll gain clarity, confidence, and strategies that extend far beyond our sessions. For your convenience, I offer weekend appointments to fit your busy lifestyle. For clients who wish to integrate faith into their healing, I also provide nondenominational, faith-based counseling rooted in compassion and spiritual growth. Whether you’re navigating transitions, chasing big goals, or simply craving peace in the midst of success, this is a space to realign, reset, and move forward with intention.
VirtualAvailable

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Spirituality
+10
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Board Certified Registered Art Therapist. I received my Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Notre Dame de Namur University. Classes in the MFT program also met the requirements for the American Art therapy Association for art therapy. I am also a Christian and provide therapy from that perspective for those who want their faith to be a part of the therapy process. I believe our spiritual well-being and relationship with God can have a significant influence on all other areas of our lives including mental health. I have a holistic approach to therapy looking at how mental, physical, and spiritual health impact each other in both positive and negative ways. I have experience in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) supporting clients in gaining a healthier relationship with their thoughts and feelings. I have worked extensively with clients in coping with depression, stress and anxiety, as well as in processing grief, loss, and life transitions. I am passionate about making mental health services more readily available to those who need it and normalizing the need for them.
VirtualAvailable

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+9
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) originally from just outside of New York City and currently live in San Diego. Working to support the mental health of others is truly my greatest honor. We are often programmed by our previous experiences, culture, and past trauma to believe a false narrative about ourselves. Utilizing the therapeutic alliance, I help clients to resolve negative, false, or limiting beliefs that may be hindering their ability to step into their true identities. We do not have to continue to live out the script that we inherited or feel the need to live in the shadows. Instead, we can live with intension, purpose, and a sense of gratitude.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+3
Hi there, I'm Leanne. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to 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 hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Welcome to my practice! I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in California. I received my Masters in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University and have been practicing for 7 years. I see adults and couples. I am interested in understanding where my clients feel they are struggling in their relationships, work or social life and helping them get unstuck.
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

Frequently rebooked

Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Perinatal Mental Health
Post Partum
+3
Hello! My name is Martha Hurtado-Garcia and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience supporting individuals with a wide range of challenges, including perinatal depression and anxiety, major life transitions, and the foster care system. Additionally, I have worked directly with teens and their parents for over 9 years providing support to those struggling with communication issues, self esteem, depression and anxiety. I am currently pursuing certification in perinatal mental health to deepen my ability to serve parents and families during such an important stage of life. At the heart of my practice is a genuine love for helping others. I strive to meet my clients where they are, empowering them to define their own goals while walking alongside them with compassion and respect. Hablo Español!
VirtualAvailable

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Solution oriented
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
Trauma and PTSD
+4
Hi all! Have you ever wondered what life would be like free of anxiety and depressive symptoms? Are you feeling lost and in need of a purpose? I love helping folks recover from issues like anxiety, depression, OCD and complex post-traumatic stress. Healing and recovery are possible! I will work with you to establish small achievable goals we can take baby steps toward. I also believe in the importance of being able to explore and process feelings that were not safe to share in the past. Healing is a process that takes time and I will help guide you. I can help you get to the root of the issue and teach you skills you can use all of your life in various situations. I do inner-child/ inner-adult work for those interested, but I also use the more practical REBT to help shift rigid perspectives that keep us stuck. I know seeking therapy can feel scary and intimidating, you have already taken the brave step of seeking assistance. I will meet you with patience and empathy and help you realize the strength you never knew you had. Let's work together!
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
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Career Counseling
Depression
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate emotional challenges, build healthier relationships, and develop confidence in their ability to heal and grow. With a compassionate, client-centered approach, it offers a safe, supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, unpack stress patterns, and learn practical tools for meaningful change. I have experience in supporting clients experiencing anxiety, intrusive thoughts, self-doubt, low motivation, relational conflict, and life transitions. She values collaboration and believes each person’s story is unique. Therefore, therapy is tailored to meet clients where they are, honoring their lived experiences while empowering them to move forward with clarity and resilience. Her work integrates evidence-based practices with warmth, empathy, and respect, helping clients strengthen communication, reduce stress responses, challenge unhelpful thinking patterns, and reconnect with their sense of self. Desma is passionate about guiding clients toward emotional balance, personal insight, and improved daily functioning so they can experience life with greater confidence and connection. Whether you’re seeking support for personal growth, relationship concerns, or mental and emotional wellness, I am committed to walking alongside you on your healing journey.
VirtualAvailable

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Open-minded
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+3
Hey there! My name is Jaclyn, and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California, practicing for six years. I offer a relaxed, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their concerns at their own pace. My approach is client-led, ensuring sessions are tailored to individual needs while equipping clients with practical tools for growth. With a supportive, warm, and empathetic presence, I help clients navigate challenges, fostering trust and empowerment in their journey toward healing.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Holistic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
The symptoms and sensations of post-traumatic stress, anxiety, grief, and depression can often feel debilitating, and may leave us bereft of hope that things will ever get better. My main goal and focus is to facilitate healing and collaborate with clients to carve out a path towards a greater sense of inner peace, meaning, and connection. I find that cultivating psychological flexibility and emotional regulation will often facilitate this endeavor and aim to guide and support my clients to this end. I embrace an eclectic approach to psychotherapy, borrowing from multiple traditions and theories of treatment. I tend to use psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I am a strong advocate of integrative psychology and finding creative solutions to life's challenges and stressors.
VirtualAvailable

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Direct
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Career Counseling
Depression
+4
Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2009 and Doctor of Behavioral Health based in California. I received my Doctorate from Arizona State University and my Masters from Norfolk State University. I have been practicing for 20 years. I specialize in adolescent girls ages 15+ and women’s issues to include but not limited to Depressive symptoms, Low self-esteem, and life transitions. My goal is to help all find their values, self-worth and decrease negative symptomatology that are impacting their daily functioning.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
Welcome. I am Dr. L, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing therapy for adults, couples, and families experiencing anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges. I work with individuals who feel overwhelmed by life transitions, emotional stress, family conflict, or ongoing mental health concerns and are seeking practical, supportive therapy to feel more balanced and grounded. Many clients come to therapy feeling anxious, emotionally exhausted, stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns, or impacted by past trauma. I offer a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space to help you process emotions, understand patterns, and develop effective coping strategies for anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship stress.
VirtualAvailable
Holistic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+9
Hi, I’m Vanda Kim, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker based in California. I have worked in the mental health field for over 17 years. My experience includes working in medical, school, and private practice settings, where I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals through many of life’s challenges. I’m passionate about building genuine connections with people from diverse cultural and personal backgrounds and deeply value the unique stories and perspectives each person brings to therapy.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+7
Greetings! My name is Deborah Sterling, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in southern California. I received my Master of Social Work degree from California State University. I have been practicing therapy for six years, utilizing various modalities to meet my clients' needs. I work primarily with adults who experience anxiety or depression to minimize their symptoms and become their best version of themselves.
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
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Depression
+10
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who works with children, adolescents, and adults to help them navigate challenges that impact their mental health. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I create a safe space where clients feel at ease sharing their thoughts and emotions. I am dedicated to supporting individuals and families in developing healthier coping strategies, fostering emotional resilience, and achieving lasting well-being. I also offer therapy in English and Spanish, tailoring the therapeutic process to each person's cultural and linguistic needs. Soy terapeuta licenciada en matrimonio y familia (LMFT) y ofrezco servicios terapéuticos a niños, adolescentes y adultos que enfrentan desafíos relacionados con su salud mental. Mi enfoque es compasivo y libre de juicios, creando un espacio seguro donde los clientes pueden expresarse con confianza. Estoy comprometida a apoyar a individuos y familias en el desarrollo de estrategias de afrontamiento saludables, fortaleciendo la resiliencia emocional y promoviendo un bienestar duradero. Además, ofrezco terapia en inglés y español, adaptando el proceso terapéutico a las necesidades culturales y lingüísticas de cada persona.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+6
I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. My approach is Holistic Therapy, focusing on the mind, body and soul. 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
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.