EAP:United Healthcare Optum Therapists in California

Utilizing mental health support through UnitedHealthcare/Optum’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can provide you with convenient and affordable access to care. With 18 verified therapists in California who accept UnitedHealthcare/Optum EAP, you have options across therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and supportive counseling to help address work-related stress, personal challenges, or life transitions. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is currently open to new clients and has availability in the coming weeks, ensuring timely access to quality, EAP-covered care tailored to your needs.

Availability updated: 7/6/2025

Sarah Davidson-Amici

(she/her)

Sarah Davidson-Amici, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
I come to my practice with life experience and have lived in Europe and know the challenges of making life transitions. I use a laid back approach and focus on meeting the clients where they are to really understand the changes they wish to make. I firmly believe in the therapeutic allegiance and the client therapist working together for the optimum outcome.

Sydney Shaevel

(she/her)

Sydney Shaevel, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
4 years of experience
Virtual
The therapeutic relationship is one that I hold close to my heart, as it is a piece of the puzzle that allowed me to flourish into my true self. I know firsthand what it is like to struggle and feel as though the obstacles ahead appear to be near impossible, whether big or small. While in the moment they may seem insurmountable, truly these experiences become the seeds of transformation and the foundation for stepping into our greatest possibilities in life. I invite you to explore your struggles collaboratively in a non-judgmental and safe space to cultivate greater self-acceptance, empowerment, and strength as you reclaim your inner knowing. I’m looking forward to supporting you as you step into new possibilities in this healing and transformative journey.

Jody evans

Jody evans, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
1 year of experience
Virtual
Hi. My name is Jody Evans and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing for the past 10 years. I graduated from Pepperdine university top of my class. I help adults struggling with depression, anxiety and addictions to learn coping skills to manage these disorders. I can provide individual, couples or family therapy. I have experience working with individuals who are going through divorce or any life transition.

Deborah L. Ramirez

(she/her)

Deborah L. Ramirez, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
945 University ...
Hi there. I'm Deborah, I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. Thank you for visiting my profile. Congratulations on beginning or continuing your healing journey. I am committed to helping individuals achieve healing, restoration of joy and hope for their future with an integrative and client-centered approach. I am playful by nature and take a "thinking out of the box" approach toward therapy to tailor our sessions to the client's needs. I am experienced with Family Based Treatment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Narrative Therapy. I have 6 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults suffering from eating disorders, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and those suffering from severe mental illness. I have experience working in several treatment settings such as community based mental health, Partial hospitalization and intensive out-patient treatment. I have also worked in Domestic Violence programs with survivors and in Assisted Community Treatment supporting for the severely mentally ill. I would love to partner with you in your journey toward healing.

Brandon Hyatt

Brandon Hyatt, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
17 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Brandon Hyatt and I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing for the last 17 years. I am simply an agent of change. My job is to help the people that choose to work with me create the changes in their lives that they want. I meet people where they are and help get them to where they want to be.

Jamie Littleton

(she/her)

Jamie Littleton, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
12 years of experience
Virtual
In my practice, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) within a trauma-informed care framework to support clients struggling with self-esteem, body image, and relationship issues. Recognizing the impact of trauma on these areas, I create a safe and empathetic environment where clients feel validated and understood. My structured approach helps clients develop practical skills in mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. For self-esteem and body image concerns, I focus on helping clients cultivate self-compassion and challenge negative self-talk through mindfulness and acceptance strategies, always being mindful of their trauma history. In addressing relationship issues, I guide clients in building healthier communication patterns and setting appropriate boundaries using interpersonal effectiveness skills, while ensuring a trauma-sensitive approach. By integrating these techniques, I empower clients to navigate their emotions more effectively, improve their self-perception, and foster more fulfilling relationships, all within a context that prioritizes their safety and well-being. **Please note I do not see couples

Kristy Turner

(she/her)

Kristy Turner, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
22 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am Kristy. As a psychotherapist my approach to therapy for over the last 20 years with individuals, couples and families is rooted in some key elements including building a therapeutic relationship, uncovering unconscious processes, promoting self-reflection and insight, and facilitating emotional processing. As a psychotherapist while working with you, I am dedicated to helping you develop self-awareness, gain insight into your inner world, make lasting changes in your life and create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment. By creating a safe and supportive environment I allow you to heal and help overcome challenges, develop healthier coping strategies and achieve therapeutic goals.

Kelly Haven

Kelly Haven, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
"You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." -A.A. Milne We all struggle at times to see our inner strengths and capabilities due to the life experiences which have shaped us. I work in the belief that we each have everything we need to achieve a fulfilled and successful life already present within us; sometimes we just need a little help accessing it. Using a multi-modality approach I encourage my clients to work in the small steps, not the giant leaps, that bring us to self awareness, acceptance, and lasting change. I began my working career as an EMT in pre-hospital and Emergency Room settings. The desire to further my education and better serve my community led me to pursue becoming an LMFT. I received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Brandman University and a Master’s degree in Psychology with a dual emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and Clinical Counseling from Brandman University. I have additional training and experience in Clinical Pastoral Education from the College of Pastoral Supervision and Psychotherapy at David Grant Medical Center at Travis Air Force Base and have worked in both residential treatment and clinical settings. I have four sons and two grandchildren. In my off time I enjoy spending time in nature, photography, and attending baseball games with my husband of 25 years.

Beth Tiras

(she/her)

Beth Tiras, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
18 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is licensed in California and Arizona; I have been working with clients since 2006. I enjoying working with all sorts of populations including people struggling with anxiety, mood disorders (depression and bipolar disorder), men's issues and eating disorders. I believe we all have the capacity to change and grow, and we each have times in our life where we need a little bit of extra help. I hope to help you to reconnect with yourself and with others in your life.

Jonnetta Appianing

(she/her)

Jonnetta Appianing, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am Jonnetta Appianing, Licensed Marriage & Child Family Therapist of 5 years of post graduate experience. Being a Licensed Mental Health Therapist has given me the opportunity to work in a variety of different roles, settings, and diagnosis from all cultures facing many of life stressors including, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, trauma, PTSD, OCD, substance abuse, interpersonal relationship, addictions and eating disorders. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with children, teens adults and couples. Throughout my years, I gained experience supporting and empowering people with different challenges and it has been very rewarding.

Dr Will Renzema

(he/him)

Dr Will Renzema, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
21 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California for 20 years and I hold a doctorate degree in the Philosophy of Counseling. I am in my second marriage for 29 years now, after my 24-year first marriage failed. We have seven children between the two of us, 31 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. I have had good success counseling couples who have given up on their relationship, especially those who have experienced infedelity. I don't counsel children until they are 18. I enjoy helping people understand how they became the way they are and therfore find ways to leave dysfunction behind.

Christine Rivlin

(she/her)

Christine Rivlin, LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
9 years of experience
Virtual
I am an LPCC in California and an LPC in Texas. My educational background consists of earning my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Master's in clinical counseling, and a Master's in Addictions. I am a National Certified Counselor and am a certified addictions counselor. My past clinical experience includes working for a crisis center where the majority of clients experienced issues related to suicide, homicide, domestic violence, and child and elder abuse. These issues impact people of all ages, races, and ethnic groups. I have also worked for a county-based permanent assisted housing development where all of the clients have experienced episodes of homelessness, and have been significantly impacted by issues of trauma, depression, addictions, domestic violence, and child abuse.

Stacy Reid

Stacy Reid, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
20 years of experience
Virtual
With 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist, my goal is to provide a safe and welcoming environment for you, as a client. I work with adults, children, and families. Within that framework I provide individual, couple or family counseling sessions, specializing in fostering growth and improved mental health by empowering clients to address their concerns in a way that aligns with their individual needs.

Anastasia Rivera, MSW

Anastasia Rivera, MSW, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Are you feeling defeated, overwhelmed, hopeless or simply “not yourself” anymore? My name is Anastasia and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I specialize in working with adults and teenagers suffering from symptoms related to mental health challenges. I have the experience and competence to help individuals and families cope with relationship problems, feelings related to depression, challenges from social anxiety and trauma, coping with anger, grief and loss, and life transitions. I believe that therapy should be a safe space for you to ventilate without judgment. In therapy, you should be challenged to grow your skills and strengths so that you can return to the person you once were before mental health challenges were present. My specialized modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered therapy, psychodynamic therapy and strengths-based approaches. My goal is to support you while challenging you at a comfortable pace to see positive change in your life. * Please note I do not provide letters for service animals or special accommodations. Please feel free to reach out with any questions at 661-487-1779

AMJ Alabún'mí A.M. Jones

(they/them)

AMJ Alabún'mí A.M. Jones, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
As an ABOLITIONIST, I believe in *literally* abolishing police, prisons, & all other forms of state violence. I am happy to discuss in-depth but for now, know that I am most heavily oriented in the work of folx like Project Nia; Interrupting Criminalization; Equitable Care Certification, and Survived & Punished. Of course, I am still deepening my learning and praxis, as one ought. As a RESOURCE MAVEN, I facilitate linkages to information & resources to support people’s wellbeing. Meaning I actually make the calls with you, etc., if wanted/needed. This type of support is a major source of joy for me & something that I’m happy to help with! I’m a FACILITATOR of JOY because, as a Queer, Disabled, Neurodivergent, fat, Gender Nonconforming Black person, I place special emphasis on helping marginalized folx find and (re)create joy in a world that denies us joy. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my focus is on understanding the environmental and contextual factors at play in your life. I come to therapy with a trauma-informed/healing-centered perspective and work collaboratively with you on determining what kinds of interventions are best suited for your needs. My approach is laid back and can be viewed as “coachy,” meaning I ask questions and provide feedback to help you figure out solutions that will work for your life. I also encourage you to bring your creative and spiritual practices to therapy, so if you want to include art, tarot, crystals, ancestor reverence, etc., we can do that!

Arnold Presley

Arnold Presley, LP - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
19 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 19 years of experience in the area of Physical, Emotional and Sexual Trauma. I have provided services to military, law enforcement and crime victims as well as those who have less violent experiences that cause problems with their family members and spouses. I feel that it is essential for people to have a safe, respectful and healthy relationship with their loved ones in order to fully appreciate and enjoy life to the fullest.

Monica Perez

Monica Perez, LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counsellor (LPCC) based in California. I received my Masters from the Cal State University of San Bernardino and have been practicing for 5 years. Inspired by my own experiences in therapy, I strive to provide clients a safe space by utilizing a non-judgmental approach to help overcome life struggles, by helping them develop healthy coping skills, reduce stress and prevent burnout. My extensive experience in various settings have equipped me to effectively support culturally diverse populations by utilizing multiple modalities of treatment tailored to each client's needs.

Mirlande Amazan

(she/her)

Mirlande Amazan, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
24 years of experience
Virtual
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with clinical and social services experience - along with years of experience and knowledge of spiritual care (MDiv) - I enjoy partnering in the whole-person healing process. Understanding the person in their environment as well as being enlightened to a person's intrinsic qualities, informs the healing process and facilitates an effective healing journey .

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 EAP:UnitedHealthcare/Optum?

Yes! If you use EAP:UnitedHealthcare/Optum you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have EAP:UnitedHealthcare/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 Eating Disorders?

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. For example, your selected specialty, Eating Disorders, is filtering therapists in California that work with patients with similar concerns.

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.