Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 903 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.

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Los AngelesSan DiegoSacramentoOaklandSan Francisco

Availability updated: 8/12/2026

Authentic
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Men's Issues
Spirituality
+5
I’ve worked in various roles in the mental health field since 1991 and have been a practicing clinician since 2012. My approach is genuine and authentic, warm and welcoming. I hope to help others appreciate what is sometimes the absurdity and incongruity of life's situations. It’s good to laugh, to have joy, appreciate what is better. GROW is secondary employment, and during the day I work for a county mental health plan delivering complex interventions for youth, families, and adults. On this platform I offer time in the evenings.
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New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Peer Relationships
Women's Issues
+6
In my practice, I am dedicated to supporting clients through life transitions, relationship challenges, anxiety, and personal growth. My clinical focus includes working with individuals who are navigating stress, building self-esteem, and seeking greater balance and clarity in their lives. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and goal-oriented, with a focus on helping clients build insight, strengthen coping skills, and develop a more confident and compassionate sense of self. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful and lasting changes.
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Empowering
Warm
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Coping Skills
+3
Hi, I’m Sandy. I have a passion for working with children and teenagers who are facing challenges in school, dealing with anxiety, depression, anger issues, peer relationships, or family struggles. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard and understood. You don’t have to go through this journey alone. Together, we’ll set meaningful goals and explore strategies to help navigate life’s ups and downs. I’m excited to work with you and help you achieve the growth and change you're seeking. I look forward to meeting you!
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Empowering
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Life Transitions
Racism
Trauma and PTSD
Experiencing adversity is part of the human experience, and everyone deserves a safe space to heal and thrive. Whether you're facing communication challenges, wanting to further develop insight, or managing traumatic responses, I am here to support. Together, we will work towards solutions that promote resilience, connection, and well-being. At the foundation of all goals, I hope to instill and restore a sense of safety, trust, and empowerment in your life. In addition to my clinical work, I am passionate about advocacy and education surrounding trauma-informed care. I believe in the importance of raising awareness and reducing stigma surrounding mental health and trauma, and I actively engage in community outreach and attend regular training initiatives to stay abreast current events.
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Warm
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+4
Are you feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Are you ready to make a change? It takes courage to ask for help. Therapy can be rewarding and lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. I have experienced the emotional challenges of life and can understand and empathize. In working together, we can cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and developing solutions that can help you gain control over your life and achieve your goals. Ultimately, therapy can lead you to greater self-esteem, self-awareness and most importantly, a more fulfilling life. As your therapist, I will provide a safe, caring, non-judgmental and confidential environment. I use an integrated approach to meet the specific needs and goals of my clients. I have experience working with adults, couples, teens and children
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Authentic
Direct
Solution oriented

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Hi my name is Ray Radeka, LCSW, CATC IV. I am a US Navy Veteran. Huge Dodger fan :)! I want to congratulate you on having the courage to reach out for assistance, it is not an easy thing to do. That being said you are already on your way to healing! I am a strength based, solution focused, compassionate, empathetic - intersectional therapist. I was born and raised in Southern California. I attended California Baptist University for my masters. My lived experiences on every level has motivated and prepared me to become a therapist. I have been in the mental health/substance abuse field, for 13 years, 8 of that was working as a Drug and Alcohol counselor specializing in Co-occurring disorders, which is someone that has been diagnosed with a Mental Health disorder and also suffers from a Drug or Alcohol addiction. I have now been practicing as a Clinical Therapist for the last 5 + years. My experience has been working with patients who suffer from Drug and Alcohol addiction, mood disorder, relationship issues, communication problems, First Responders and nurses. Veterans with severe mental illness, PTSD , co-occurring disorders, Sex addiction. Coping with symptoms of Bipolar Disorder, Depression and Anxiety, Emotion dysregulation, Anger Management. My clinical approach leans towards CBT, DBT, Strength based, Solution Focus Therapy, Meditation and Mindfulness, ACT, Trauma focus therapy. As was as assisting in developing healthy communication habits and skills. “Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day”. —Dalai Lama
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Holistic

Specialties

Grief
Perinatal Mental Health
Hi, I'm Erica! I am an LCSW specializing in maternal/postpartum mental health. I am here to support new and expecting moms navigate the profound identity shifts that come with motherhood. Passionate about maternal mental health, my goal is to provide a compassionate space for new moms to explore the complexities of losing and rediscovering themselves in this new role. Whether supporting you through postpartum struggles, fertility challenges, or the emotional weight of balancing your past and present self, I am dedicated to helping you discover your inner strength. I also have a passion for supporting motherless mothers, helping those who are mothering without their mothers process grief, find strength in their journey, and build the kind of nurturing presence they may have longed for themselves.
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New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I provide virtual therapy using an integrated, whole-person approach that focuses not only on navigating difficult periods, but also on maintaining progress, building resilience, and supporting long-term mental wellness. Therapy can be both restorative and preventative, and I work with clients across all stages of that process. I treat a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, personality-related patterns, and life transitions. My clinical background includes experience with higher-acuity and complex cases—such as forensic populations, individuals in psychiatric settings, and those managing co-occurring mental and medical conditions. While my current practice is fully virtual, I am comfortable addressing difficult or sensitive topics and provide a space where clients can speak openly without hesitation. My approach is direct, engaged, and collaborative. I prioritize building strong, trusting relationships and creating a setting where clients feel understood and supported. I recognize that progress is not always linear and work consistently with clients through both setbacks and growth. I am multilingual and can provide therapy in English, Lithuanian, and conversational Hungarian languages.
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Authentic
Humorous
Open-minded

Specialties

Couples Counseling
LGBTQ
Mood Disorders
My name is Michael Southerland and I have over 30 years experience in working with people in mental health, 10 years as a licensed therapist. I have worked in child welfare and adoptions, juvenile systems, and community mental health. I have been in private practice for a total of 8 years. I truly enjoy helping others become their best selves. I am looking forward to meeting you.
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Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+8
I believe we're endlessly creative and resourceful as human beings — we have to be, if we're going to keep showing up in a world that includes real suffering. Over the years, we all find ways to cope. Some are healthy and sustaining. Others work for a while, until they don't — because life stretches us past our limits, or because some part of us simply isn't willing to keep silencing our own voice, harming ourselves, or staying in relationships and patterns that no longer serve us. That's often where the real work begins: building a deeper relationship with yourself — one rooted in awareness, trust, and self-respect, rather than the inner critic that so many of us carry. I'm Gwendolyn, and my work centers on helping people reconnect with themselves and understand their own inner world (and the people in it). I often work with clients navigating grief, trauma, life transitions, and the impact of addiction — whether their own or that of someone close to them. Together, we'll work on quieting the inner critic, learning to trust yourself again, and supporting your nervous system so that calm feels more accessible. I also believe healing doesn't only happen through talk — creativity, nature connection, self-expression, and spiritual practices are often just as vital to the process, and I welcome them into our work together.
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Often rebooked

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
+1
Hello, I am Julie. We often are doing the best we can with what we are given, and I am here to help improve daily practices, routines, and maintain a life worth living. I help clients who struggle with Acute and Chronic Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety disorders, and Depressive disorders. I am trained in utilizing Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Reprocessing Desensitization (EMDR) therapy. Although, I have training in specific therapy modalities I take time to incorporate client goals and address the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness and art to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. I am excited to begin working with individuals in their journey to self-exploration and healing. "What we don't need in the midst of struggle is shame for being human." -Brene Brown
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Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+4
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing telehealth services to children, adolescents, and adults across California. As a bilingual therapist fluent in Spanish, I have extensive experience supporting clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and deeply value culturally responsive care. I earned my Master of Science in Counseling, with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, from California State University, Los Angeles, where I also completed my Bachelor of Arts in Child Development. My education and clinical training provided a strong foundation in evidence based practices, lifespan development, and relational dynamics, which continue to guide the way I support my clients. I work with individuals and families navigating anxiety, emotional overwhelm, life transitions, and relationship stress. I support children and adolescents in strengthening emotional regulation and coping skills, while helping adults manage stress, burnout, and personal growth with greater confidence and clarity. I believe meaningful change begins with connection. I meet each client where they are, creating a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, understood, and respected. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, focused on building resilience, increasing self awareness, and helping you develop practical tools that you can use in your everyday life. I offer flexible virtual sessions designed to fit into your schedule while providing accessible, high quality care.
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Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
I’m so glad you’re here. My name is Sierra, and I am a California-based licensed Psychologist with over 10 years of clinical experience supporting adults as they navigate life's challenges. My passion is helping people not only understand themselves more deeply, but also make lasting positive changes. I take a holistic approach to therapy that supports the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. This often includes strategies such as nervous system education, mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), somatic healing, and when helpful, collaboration with integrative providers like nutritionists. I also draw from additional evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy, while paying close attention to how stress or trauma may show up in the body. In our work together, we’ll create a personalized plan that blends insight, practical tools, and meaningful action. My goal is to provide a space where you feel truly seen and supported, and where therapy becomes not just about coping with challenges, but about moving toward the life you most want to live.
VirtualAvailable
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Often rebooked

Authentic
Humorous
Warm

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Depression
Mood Disorders
+9
"Healing may not be so much about getting better, as about letting go of everything that isn't you – all of the expectations, all of the beliefs – and becoming who you are." - Rachel Naomi Remen Hello! I am Lauresha Hawkins, LCSW, MSW, MPH. I am the CE0 and Founder of Mental Wellness University, Licensed Clinical Social Worker Inc., which is located in California. I am licensed in the state of California and Alaska. I am independently contracted with Grow Therapy. With trust and rapport as the foundation of our therapeutic alliance, my approach is eclectic in style and based on meeting the unique needs of who I serve. Possessing a passion for serving and inspiring people from all walks of life, I have experience working with individuals who have challenges with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, substance abuse, and perinatal mental health disorders. With fifteen years of experience in the field of social work, I have dedicated eight of those years to providing mental health services as an associate and licensed mental health professional in various settings, including residential therapeutic treatment facilities, outpatient clinics, and hospitals. Currently, I hold a three-year license. My passion lies in serving youth, Transitional Age Youth (TAY), adults, and mature adults, particularly those who are vulnerable and at risk, such as the LGBTQIA+ community and individuals with dual diagnoses.
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Direct
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Depression
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+5
My name is Jonathan Meza, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I have been working in the mental health field since 2008. My practice is based in the Los Angeles area in Southern California, but I am also available via telehealth for clients throughout the state. Finding the right therapist for you is important. I'm known for being a great listener, and a kid at heart. I'm a believer that life’s hardships can be opportunities for amazing growth. My approach is to gently challenge my clients with sensitivity for everyone's unique pace in self-discovery and motivation to achieve their goals.
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Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Dissociative Disorders
Self-Harming
Trauma and PTSD
Hi there, I'm Aimee! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I most commonly use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as my therapeutic approach. I work hard to help people pinpoint the changes they want to see in their life and assist with navigating the path toward a values driven and meaningful life. Many of us like to avoid uncomfortable feelings. I like to help people get comfortable with feeling uncomfortable.
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Solution oriented
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). In 1991, I obtained a B.H. in Social Psychology from The Universidad Autonoma de Baja California (Mexico). In 2008, I graduated from University of Phoenix with an M.A. in Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy. I have more than 22 years of experience working with patients—including adolescents, parents, adults, and couples. My focus is on improving relationships and addressing mental or emotional issues such as depression, anxiety, phobias, trauma, psychosocial stressors, life challenges, and personal goals.
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Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+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.
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Open-Minded
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Perinatal Mental Health
+10
Hi, my name is Karin (pronounced Ca-Lin). I am bilingual in Burmese and English and am both a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor. I strive to create a warm, inclusive environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel heard, valued, and respected. My approach is grounded in cultural awareness and appreciation, recognizing and honoring the unique experiences and perspectives each person brings to our work together. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious in social settings, or experiencing persistent sadness? Are you finding it difficult to balance your relationships, work, and overall well-being? Do you struggle to show yourself the same kindness you offer others? I support individuals who are experiencing anxiety and depression. Together, we will explore what may not be working and identify ways to help you regain a sense of balance. My approach integrates a whole-person perspective with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), focusing on the connection between mind, body, and spirit.
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Often rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like life isn’t quite yours? I help adults navigate: anxiety, depression, complex ADHD/ADD, generational trauma, perfectionism, codependency, people-pleasing, and interpersonal conflict. I also support people during times of transition or entering a different phase in life that can be difficult to experience. I take an integrative and personalized approach by blending compassion, humor, and practical strategies to help you regain clarity, confidence, and a life that truly feels like your own. Whether you’re struggling with stress, feeling lost, or ready for meaningful change, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Let’s work together to make life feel a little lighter… and finally stop arguing with your own brain at 2 a.m.
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Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+8
Hello there, I'm Susie. I'm a bilingual therapist who speaks English and Spanish. I have specialized training in Art Therapy and EMDR. In my work with individuals and groups, I am compassionate, collaborative, culturally sensitive and creative. I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. As humans, we create patterns and behaviors that may no longer be helpful for us when navigating relationships in our life. This can feel stressful, helpless, and anxiety provoking. Having space to acknowledge and talk about what is happening in your life can help relieve the intensity of those feelings and can help create new patterns and behaviors.
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Intelligent
Authentic
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Crisis Intervention
Depression
+6
Hello, my name is Jessica, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I am fully bilingual in English and Spanish, which allows me to support clients in the language they feel most comfortable expressing themselves in. I provide a warm, compassionate, and client-centered approach to therapy. I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, and emotional struggles. I believe that healing is a collaborative process, and I strive to create a safe and supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. When requested, I welcome the integration of faith into treatment. As a Christian therapist, I am honored to include biblical principles and spiritual support for clients who desire to include their faith as part of the healing journey. I believe that combining psychological tools with spiritual insight can lead to deep, lasting transformation.
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Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Family Therapy
+2
Hello! My name is Leah and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) based in California, I extend a warm greeting to you. My practice is dedicated to to working with young humans and the caregivers who show up for them everyday. Therapy with me is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to each families's unique needs, helping children and teens feel understood while empowering parents with practical support.
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Authentic
Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+10
As a supportive therapist, I fully assist clients to achieve empowerment and life of satisfaction. I effectively collaborate with clients to increase self-compassion and supportive social connections to live a life of independence and courage. With non-judgmental empathy, I listen to help clients understand their losses and even unendurable psychological pains, and provide ongoing support with therapeutic insight and expertise in a confidential setting.
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Humorous
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Making the decision to start your journey in mental health (or pick it back up) can be one of the scariest and most nerve-wracking things in this world. Bearing your soul and sharing the deepest, darkest, and most vulnerable parts of yourself with a virtual stranger is one of the bravest choices you can make. Are you ready to take that first step? I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) practicing in California for over 7 years. I've worked with children, teens, and adults from all backgrounds and walks of life. The majority of my work has been with individuals experiencing severe mental illness in community mental health. I have worked extensively with individuals and families in crisis to provide a safe and honest space to work through whatever is holding them back from leading the life they want to lead. I am a trauma-informed, Emergency Responder and Public Safety Certified Clinician (ERPSCC), Certified First Responder Counselor (CFRC), and am trained in TF-CBT. I aim to provide an environment where you are never afraid to share those dark thoughts or memories for fear that it will be "too much" for the therapist on the other end. I also strive to provide culturally-competent treatment for my clients, by attending trainings focusing on the LGBTQ+ community, persons of color, non-traditional relationships, and other communities with their own unique challenges. I love to find unique ways to build rapport and communication with my clients. Don't know where to start with how you are feeling? Give me a song that describes your week. Struggling with maintaining eye contact over a computer screen? Let's do some coloring to ease you into it. You are unique and your treatment should be too. Are you ready to open the door to healing?
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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.