Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 831 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: 10/29/2026

Has intro video

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

Has intro video

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

Has intro video

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

Has intro video

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

Has intro video

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

Has intro video

Intelligent
Direct
Solution oriented
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
Authentic
Empowering
Direct
Specialties
Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+9
You’re doing your best to hold everything together—but you’re exhausted. Maybe everyone turns to you, yet your mind won’t shut off. If you're navigating anxiety, self-doubt, perfectionism, people-pleasing, burnout, or past trauma, therapy can be a place to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and create space for the person you are beneath all that pressure.
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
Solution oriented
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Coping Skills
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+5
Hi, I'm Abby. Do you find it difficult to gain peace in your daily life? Do your past experiences impact how you can function in your present moment? Or does fear about past or future events keep you from living your life the way you want to today? I help people from all walks of life learn to manage and process these feelings, emotions and events. Empowering them to move forward with skills to be successful in their daily lives. Together we can heal mind, body and spirit to build the healthiest version of you moving forward. Confident in your ability to manage what life brings your way. Wellness is more than the absence of disease; it is a state of optimal well-being. It goes beyond the curing of illness to achieving health. Through the ongoing integration of your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual self, you have the opportunity to create and preserve a whole and happy life. I strive to create services that are designed to provide you with an integrated solution for your mind, body, spirit, and life to enhance your life and resolve issues. I provide counseling designed to address many of the issues people are dealing with and I am excited to start this journey with you. I know the first step can be scary but I will walk alongside you to achieve the goal you have set out for yourself.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+9
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters from California State University Bakersfield and have been practicing for over 10 years. I am dedicated to providing a safe and compassionate space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and challenges. I am also here to guide you on your path to self-discovery and empowerment.
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
Warm
Solution oriented
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+5
Welcome! My name is Jasmyn Rodriguez, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and I hold a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California (USC). I am specialized in working with adolescents women and young adults. My main goal is to assist clients in identifying and transforming negative thought patterns and behaviors, ultimately enhancing their emotional well-being.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
Coping Skills
+3
Narcissistic abuse and emotional abuse can leave you feeling confused, hurt, and searching for answers. You may have believed you found your soulmate, only to end up in a complicated, painful relationship. Feelings of isolation, self-blame, and frustration are common, but you don’t have to face this alone. If you’ve been researching narcissism and its impact, you’re already taking the first step toward healing—and I’m here to guide you the rest of the way. As a compassionate therapist, I specialize in helping individuals recover from narcissistic abuse, emotional abuse, and toxic relationships. I work with clients to rebuild self-esteem, set healthy boundaries, and create a life filled with clarity, confidence, and empowerment. My practice is inclusive and affirming, and I am passionate about supporting the LGBTQ+ community through unique challenges and experiences. If you’re ready to make a change but aren’t sure where to start, I’m here to help. Together, we’ll work on healing past wounds, breaking free from harmful patterns, and creating a future where you feel in control and valued. Let’s take the first step towards you having a better life.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented
Direct
Specialties
Life Transitions
Parenting
Serious Mental Illness
+7
I’m a compassionate and grounded therapist with a deep commitment to supporting families, friends, and loved ones impacted by severe mental illness. Through my work supporting individuals living with significant mental health challenges, I have witnessed how mental illness can ripple through relationships and affect the well-being of entire family systems. I am passionate about helping loved ones navigate these challenges with greater understanding and confidence while finding space for their own needs, emotions, and healing. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Sociology and my Master of Arts in Counseling Education. My experience spans community mental health clinics and school settings, informing my understanding of the complex ways that individual experiences, family dynamics, and broader societal systems intersect. I believe that supporting those impacted by mental illness involves not only education and advocacy, but also creating space for the often-overlooked experiences of family members and loved ones. I recognize that loving someone who experiences severe mental illness can bring a wide range of emotions, uncertainties, and challenges. You may be navigating complicated family dynamics, searching for resources, or learning how to establish healthy boundaries. Outside of my work, I find meaning in nature, exploring life's deeper questions, and noticing the light that exists even during difficult seasons. I am drawn to the possibilities that emerge when we feel supported enough to approach our experiences with curiosity and openness. I feel deeply grateful to share space with others during some of life's most challenging moments. Together, we can explore where you are, make room for the complexity of your experiences, and work toward healing, connection, and a future that feels more aligned with the life you want to create.
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
Authentic
Warm
Direct
Specialties
Coping Skills
Depression
Self Esteem
+9
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. Originally from Taiwan, I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Columbia University. Throughout my career, I have worked with a diverse range of individuals and communities, including children and families, adolescents, transitional-age youth, young adults, older adults, men, women, couples, LGBTQ+ individuals, and justice-involved populations. I am fluent in English, Mandarin, and Taiwanese. I understand that our cultural backgrounds, family experiences, and life circumstances can shape who we are and influence the way we see ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us. My clinical experience has given me a broad understanding of the unique challenges people face at different stages of life. I strive to create a respectful and supportive environment where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered. In today's fast-paced world, many people find themselves overwhelmed by daily responsibilities and may be disconnected from what brings meaning and fulfillment to their lives. It is common to push aside difficult thoughts and emotions simply to get through the day. Over time, however, this can leave us feeling stuck, isolated, or uncertain about how to move forward. I want to assure you that it is okay to reach out and talk it out. Whether you are navigating a major life transition, experiencing relationship difficulties, seeking greater self-understanding, or simply looking for a safe space to process your experiences, therapy can provide an opportunity to gain insight and perspective. My approach is direct yet empathic, collaborative, and solution-focused, while remaining grounded in genuine compassion and practical feedback. Together, I can help you explore the challenges you are facing, identify patterns that may be holding you back, build upon your strengths, and work toward meaningful, positive, and lasting change.
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
Direct
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+5
Hi, I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I have been practicing for 12 years. I am US Navy veteran and also an enrolled member of Oneida Nation of Wisconsin. I take pride in identifying with both of those groups as they help define who I am as a person, outside of being a mental health clinician. I have experience working with a broad age-range of clients (elementary age through elderly age).
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
Authentic
Warm
Intelligent
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi, I tell my clients that I work with then using a variety of styles and methods that you get to pick. My treatment approach is usually to give clients new tools to live more effectively or provide experiences that are transformational! Most people are looking to get results quickly while others need more extended work and support. I can offer you both with a caring and empathic style to support you. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been in private practice since 1989. Our training is similar to Marriage and Family Therapists but with a wider focus and a different emphasis.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+7
I believe therapy should be a place where you feel heard, supported, and empowered to create meaningful change. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, veterans, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, and crisis situations. My background in emergency psychiatric services and behavioral health has given me extensive experience helping individuals through some of life’s most difficult moments with compassion and without judgment. My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and tailored to your unique needs. I integrate evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, trauma-informed care, and psychoeducation to help clients build practical coping skills, increase self-awareness, and work toward lasting emotional wellness. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, struggling with stress, processing past experiences, or simply looking for support as you navigate life’s challenges, my goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can heal, grow, and feel empowered every step of the way.
Available
Warm
Direct
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Welcome I am so glad you are here. Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting, but you do not have to navigate this alone. Whether you are struggling to find balance amid overwhelming work stress, trying to improve communication in your relationships, or looking for practical ways to ease the heavy weight of anxiety and depression, I am here to help. Together, we will create a safe, supportive space to explore your goals, untangle complex emotions, and build the tools you need to reclaim your peace of mind and live a more fulfilling 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
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.