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 512 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
Darin Deterra
(he/him)
LMFT
25 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I’m Dr. Darin Deterra, PhD, LMFT. I’ve been a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) for more than 25 years. I’m a Holistic Therapist, an Executive Coach, and a Quantum Healer. I call this the Golden Triad.
’m the author of several books, I'm an award-winning public speaker; a radio show host (Transformation Station in Monterey, CA), and a TV show host (Toasted TV in Santa Cruz, CA). I have lived in five different countries on four continents. I have written and produced more than 60 original songs, and designed a virtual world for kids that teaches Four-Dimensional intelligence. I have run marathons and triathlons, and bicycled triple centuries. I have climbed mountains around the world, and practiced skydiving in Washington, paragliding in Nepal, and parasailing in Africa. I have lived in Switzerland, Brazil, and India. I worked with Buddhist monks in Nepal and Bhutan, and I worked one-on-one with Ram Dass at his home in Maui. I have worked with some of the greatest healers on the planet and integrated this into my work. I have lived my dreams and I believe deeply that you can also.
Jill Cordova Holt
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
PLEASE NOTE: I am a Gerontological Counselor.
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.
Find therapists experienced in these areas
Jania Sommers
(she/her)
Frequently rebooked
LCSW
32 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome to my practice. I am a seasoned therapist and have worked in many different settings over many years. All I ever wanted to do is help people have their best lives. I practiced social work with a Bachelors degree in prisons, community agencies for the disabled, a state hospital, a state facility for people with cognitive challenges, child and family welfare work and working with folks in community care homes. I also developed and led a community program for Guardians ad Litem in child abuse and neglect cases. Then I went back to school and earned my Masters in Social Work and then my therapy credentials after many hours of supervision. I truly enjoy listening and encouraging clients to embrace strategies for wellness and self-compassion using mindfulness and compassion and strength based materials. I am actively engaged in consult groups with other therapists focusing on trans and queer issues. For several years I taught at the graduate school level in South Carolina and then Utah, teaching social work students skills for working ethically and compassionately.
Christopher Blackwell
(he/him)
LCSW
1 year of experience
Virtual
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience supporting individuals navigating depression, anxiety, and life’s everyday challenges. I take a compassionate, client-centered approach and primarily use Mindfulness-Based Therapy to help you build awareness, reduce stress, and develop healthier coping skills.
In our work together, you can expect a safe, supportive space where you’ll learn to manage difficult thoughts and emotions, stay grounded in the present moment, and reconnect with what matters most to you. Whether you're seeking relief from overwhelming feelings or looking to strengthen your emotional resilience, I'm here to walk alongside you on that journey.
Crystal Tellez-Giron
(she/her)
Frequently rebooked
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
I, truly, believe there is no "one size fits all" to therapy, so I tailor the therapy experience to match your individual and unique needs. I'll support you in your healing journey as your "co-pilot" to help you navigate difficult emotional terrain. I aim to meet you where you are and allow you, the expert of your own lived experience, to take the driver's seat, while serving as your sound board in the passenger seat, gently pointing out your blind spots, to help you identify the best path to wellness and fulfillment for a quality life that aligns with your values.
Yudelka Ureña
Frequently rebooked
LCSW
16 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of practice and experience. My passion is to empower you to live as your most authentic self, no matter what challenges life has presented. I combine traditional psychotherapy with the transformative practices of Kundalini yoga and meditation, guiding you from what may feel like darkness back into your radiant, authentic light.
I strive to create a space of healing and growth where you feel supported, safe, and seen. My hope is to help you challenge yourself to step into—and truly own—your inner light. If you are carrying the weight of past or current stressors, trauma, anxiety, depression, or self-esteem issues, you owe it to yourself to heal and grow. This is your opportunity to dedicate time and care to you.
Joanne Freed
LMFT
38 years of experience
Virtual
I have a PhD in Clinical Psychology and am a licensed LMFT. I received my PhD in 1994 and have been practicing for about 30 years. I work with adult women and men, who are experiencing life transitions such as career issues and relationship problems. The goal of the therapy is to use self-awareness to bring about change, and more joy in life.
Emma Ruiz
LMFT
12 years of experience
Virtual
As a trauma informed therapist and a mommy to an angel baby, I offer a compassionate and strength based tailored approach to therapy. I have 12 years of clinical experience, 22 years experience in providing support to individuals in foster care and 5 years experience in working with individuals in recovery from substance/alcohol abuse. From 2013 till 2024 I was an Associate Marriage Family Therapist. In 2024, I became a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist.
Christina Ramirez
LMFT
20 years of experience
Virtual
I offer virtual therapy, focusing on helping people set healthy boundaries, speak up for themselves, and make positive changes in their lives. For nearly 20 years, I’ve helped adults overcome anxiety and codependency by fostering self-love, empowering them to build healthier relationships with themselves and others. My goal is to help clients move through life with greater confidence, clarity, and emotional balance.
Ronena Summers
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. I earned my Master's Degree in Psychology Counseling from Mt. ST. Mary's University in Los Angeles and have been practicing for 15 years. I facilitate insight into problematic issues in your life transition towards a life worth living. My approach is empathetic, compassionate, and direct. I help recognize unhealthy patterns of thoughts and behaviors.
Dr. Sepideh Birjani
(she/her)
LMFT
4 years of experience
Virtual
As your therapist, I bring a caring and warm presence to every session, creating a safe and supportive space where you can feel truly heard and understood. At the same time, I’m goal-oriented and committed to helping you make meaningful progress toward the changes you want to see in your life. Together, we'll work at your pace to achieve growth and healing. Over the years, I've supported individuals from diverse backgrounds, helping them navigate their unique paths toward healing and personal growth. My approach is adaptable, compassionate, and rooted in evidence-based practices tailored to your specific needs.
Juho Kim
(he/him)
Frequently rebooked
LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. With a passion for supporting individuals, couples, and families to navigate the complexities of relationships and personal growth, I've dedicated my career to fostering a safe and nurturing environment where my clients can explore challenges, heal, and thrive. My approach is grounded in empathy, evidence-based practices, and a deep commitment to understanding each client's unique dynamics and strengths. Whether addressing communication issues, conflict resolution, emotional intimacy, or personal development, I aim to empower my clients to achieve greater harmony, understanding, and fulfillment in their lives and relationships.
Kim Jackson-Massaro
(she/her)
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
I help clients untangle the deeper emotional patterns that keep them feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves. My approach is warm, collaborative, and insight-oriented—I offer a space where you can slow down, reflect, and begin to shift long-held patterns that no longer serve you. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, grief, burnout, or other challenges, I’m here to help you reconnect with your inner clarity and strength.
Sarah Davidson-Amici
(she/her)
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.
Lisa Criswell
(she/her)
Frequently rebooked
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I’m a California Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My goal is to create a safe and trusting environment for you to explore and overcome any challenges you face while providing the emotional support you need. I have worked with teens and adults to overcome their life challenges and develop the coping skills necessary to become the best version of themselves. I spent time practicing my therapeutic skills as an intern trainee at the California State University, Fresno university clinic. Here I began to focus on working with teens and young adults to overcome challenges associated with life transitions, burnout, relationship issues, and mood disorders such as anxiety, grief, and depression. Working as part of a grant program with parolees and then a group private practice, I also gained significant experience working with individuals who have trauma history. Through this work, I was able to learn and implement a variety of modalities to effectively address the impacts of trauma. I love my work as a therapist and would be happy to be part of your journey.
Karen Weaver
(she/her)
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm Karen Weaver. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and have been practicing for over 10 years. Life can be challenging at times and we can all benefit from some support. My focus in working together is to assist you in becoming your best self. That could be anything from managing anxiety and stress better, to overcoming past challenges or getting along better with family or friends.
Jessica Lazos
(she/her)
Frequently rebooked
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, I'm Jess!
Real change takes time, practice and patience. I am honored to have the opportunity to accompany you on your journey. I am Bilingual in English and Spanish (Hablo español). I have been privileged to work with adults, teens, families, and couples struggling with a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, communication, trauma etc.
I am experienced in a number of evidence based techniques including CBT, DBT, Person-Centered therapy, and I will actively work with you to find the best approach to meet your individual needs. This open and flexible approach allows you to share and comfortably express and explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors in a warm, safe and inviting space.
I hold a unique understanding of the struggles that accompany physical disabilities. I understand how hard reaching out and asking for help can be, and I am so proud of you for taking this first step towards peace and healing!
Life is easier with support! Together we can discuss how therapy could benefit you and/or your family.
Elizabeth Lachapelle
Frequently rebooked
LP
36 years of experience
Virtual
Short-term counseling with an experienced professional to clarify thoughts and feelings, learn mental health management skills and plan for mental health and wellness. Possible topics include general mental health questions, improving mental health, goal setting, building cognitive and behavioral skills, dealing with life transitions, and clarifying thoughts and feelings. I am not licensed in treatment of substance abuse or addictions. I do not do court related work. Adults only.
Carrie Likeness
(she/her)
LMFT
12 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! Are you feeling frozen, avoidant, exhausted, disconnected, or uncertain in life? Many of us do from time to time and this is where psychotherapy makes a difference. My passion as a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist is helping those struggling with unresolved issues that can block personal growth and vibrancy. Some signs of being stuck appear as thought spiraling, rumination, thought or image intrusions, an increased self-critical voice, physical discomforts, sleep issues, irritability, despair, avoidance, isolation, and worrisome behaviors.
Luis Ciprez
(he/him)
LCSW
18 years of experience
Virtual
Hello there and thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 17 years of combined experience working in the field of mental health and substance use. As a therapist, I like to provide a safe and nonjudgemental safe space for Clients to work on their concerns and achieve their goals. Most of my Clients feel that even if they have struggled to connect with other therapists in the past, they are able to connect with me and feel supported.
Patricia Jones
(she/her)
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated with my Master's Degree from Rutgers University. I have experience working with teens, and adult dealing with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, self-esteem, self -harm, ADHD, life changes and other challenges. I specialize in working with teens, women and men who are experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, negative self-image and trauma. I work with clients to help them discover their true self. I will meet you where you are in your journey, and will you facilitate the changes you need to reach your fullest potential. If your tired of your emotional rollercoaster consider coming to see me.
Kristina Alvarez
(she/her)
LPCC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, my name is Kristina. I love to help people overcome obstacles in their lives, including but not limited to relationship problems, anxiety, low moods, work burnout, major life transitions, or self-esteem issues. I use a Person-Centered approach to therapy and apply evidence-based practices such as CBT and Solution Focused. I facilitate a therapeutic space of non-judgment and curious exploration, to foster self-discovery and deep healing from trauma and adverse experiences.
Lauren N Horvath
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
I offer strength-based, trauma-informed care, grounded in the belief that you are the expert of your own life. With 15+ years of experience in this field, I draw from a range of approaches—including CBT, DBT, and EMDR—to help you achieve your goals. Reach out for a free phone consultation to discuss your unique needs and begin creating a personalized plan for healing.
Idania arellano
(she/her)
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, my name is Idania Arellano, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I received a master's degree in Marital and Family Therapy from Loma Linda University in 2019. I have worked in human services for since 2010 in various capacities including drug and alcohol and case management in group homes. I enjoy working as a therapist and feel privileged to help others work on themselves.
Emilie Crist
(she/her)
LMFT
4 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Emilie Crist and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I graduated from Fresno State with a Bachelor of Science in Special Studies Pre-Public Health and attained my Master’s of Art in Marriage and Family Therapy from Touro University Worldwide. I have worked in community health and private practice and have a broad range of knowledge and experience that I am able to apply to my work as a clinician. I look forward to helping you on your healing journey to find deeper meaning and a better understanding of yourself to reach your full potential.
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 a specific issue?
The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.
What are the "Clients say I'm" badges?
Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.
Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?
Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.
What to expect during your first session?
Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs.
Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center. Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.
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.