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 529 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: 7/16/2025

Leslie Lange

(she/her)

Leslie Lange, LP - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
30 years of experience
Virtual
I help clients who are struggling with feelings of anxiety and depression, as well as stress, with poor self-esteem and relationship difficulties. I have been in practice for 30 years, and support clients in gaining skills to help themselves to quickly feel better. I also help teens ang young adults who are depressed and anxious. I help people to feel better and live with more joy.

Sam Moglen

(he/him)

Sam Moglen, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. My approach is warm and down-to-earth, and use perspectives and tools from many styles of therapy such as EMDR, somatic, and Brainspotting so that I can tailor a unique approach together with you. I strive to be clear, honest, and genuine to learn about your reality in a manner that feels comfortable for you.

Robert Garza

Robert Garza, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
23 years of experience
Virtual
California State University Stanislaus of Social Work, Master's in Social Work License LCSW# 76744 23 Years of experience Hello! My name is Robert Garza, LCSW Bi-lingual. I have over 18 years of experience working with clients ranging from early childhood, adolescence, children/families, adults, and end-of-life care. I have always viewed my professional career to learn as much as possible and be able to impact the largest number of people in need of support, counseling, therapy, and a safe space. I have worked in educational settings, healthcare settings, and clinical settings. I was born in Corcoran and raised in Central California. I currently reside in Rocklin CA, and enjoy horseshoe pitching, long walks, the ocean, and family and friends. My historical area of focus ranges from challenges in school to overcoming childhood traumas, depression, anxiety, social isolation, and conflict within family units. These are common things that we all face as we grow and evolve into our adult selves.

Bella Lurie

(she/her)

Bella Lurie, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am a psychotherapist, a meditation teacher, and an amateur naturalist. In my home country, I am licensed to conduct learning disability evaluations. My growing up was first-hand impacted by 3 very different languages and cultures. These cultures informed the style of my relationships and my esthetic preferences. For as long as I can remember, I have been mystified by human memory functioning, first as a scientist, then as a meditator. Having gone a long way from trying to remember everything I deemed worth remembering to a more effortless and drama-free attitude toward memory-creating moments, I am still making sense of what it means to integrate each moment of life as it comes. Approaching this subject experientially and relationally informs who I am as a practitioner and as a person. If topics like cognitive functioning, memory styles and focus make your curiosity antennas hum, this is a place for you. My approach to psychotherapy is highly relational and somewhat didactic. I love to explain everything I see and say at every step of the process. With me, you will never experience a blank screen characteristic of traditional psychoanalytic approaches (from which I draw inspiration in the realm of dream interpretation and theory).

Angeline Hsu

(she/her)

Angeline Hsu, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Southern California. I received my Masters from Azusa University and have been practicing for 7 years. I help young adults experiencing emotional distress, burnouts, and life stage challenges overcome their difficulties and reach their goals. Additionally, I enjoy working with individuals facing cultural issues within their family of origin and with partner.

Sharon Hill-Anderson

Sharon Hill-Anderson, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I’m Sharon Hill-Anderson, LMFT. I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who takes a person-centered, collaborative approach to working with adults navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where you can begin your journey toward healing and personal growth. I value open, supportive, and non-judgmental conversations. My style is rooted in active listening, ensuring you feel heard and understood. This space is for you—to reflect, explore, and grow at your own pace.

Stacey Rydell

(she/her)

Stacey Rydell, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Stacey, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Denver, though I am originally from Santa Barbara, CA. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University and have been working with clients for over six years. I specialize in supporting young LGBTQ adults as they navigate the challenges of early adulthood, with a focus on treating anxiety, depression, and emotional well-being. My goal is to create a safe, affirming space where individuals can explore their experiences and work toward healing and growth.

Carrie Gajowski

(she/her)

Carrie Gajowski, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
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.

Jaron Haynes

Jaron Haynes, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
20 years of experience
Virtual
I am Jaron Haynes, an African American/Native American licensed therapist with 20 years of clinical experience which includes working with families, adolescents, the chronically mentally ill, those struggling with substance abuse and addiction, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, domestic violence, and personality disorders. As an expert in Marriage & Family Therapy he brings to the team a wealth of knowledge and vast experience to provide the highest quality of care and patience necessary for even those high conflict parenting clients. Jaron is a licensed professional that exhibits compassion and empathy. His passion to help those in need and his desire to give back to the community that helped shape him has led him to work with clients from diverse populations and cultural backgrounds.

Dr. Arlice Cleveland

Dr. Arlice Cleveland, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
13 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I’m Dr. Cleveland, and I bring over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. I received my master's degree in clinical psychology with emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and my doctorate degree in Applied Clinical Psychology. Throughout my career, I have served many roles, including Clinical Director and Primary Therapist at various mental health and substance treatment centers. I have been deeply involved in developing and growing treatment programs that are effective and compassionate. I have had the opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients, including those who are court-mandated, and I am well-versed in addressing the unique challenges they face. In addition to my clinical practice, I have worked as a professor, where I stay at the forefront of research and innovative practices in mental health treatment. My approach is grounded in evidence-based methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Whether you are dealing with specific challenges or seeking personal growth and balance, I am here to support you on your journey."

Gwendolyn Tyson

Gwendolyn Tyson, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am Gwendolyn Tyson, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California. During my 29 years of experience, I have worked with a diverse range of people aged 3 to 95, providing individual, child, and family counseling. My therapeutic approach consists of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused, strength-based, grief and loss, and Christian-based counseling. I also enjoy working with families with issues related to trauma, terminal illnesses, blended families, and phase of life issues. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is paramount for growth, meaning the relationship between therapist and client is of the utmost importance for success. I have been told that I have a gentle, soft demeanor that makes clients feel relaxed and easily engaged during sessions. By using self-reflection, one becomes more aware of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. My desire is to help you achieve your goals by exploring interventions you can use for a lifetime. Let's start this journey together. My approach I generally use Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral, trauma-focused, grief and loss, and Strength-Based therapy. My focus I provide treatment to patients from 3 to 95 years of age. Providing support around anxiety, depression, grief and loss, blended families, phase of life issues, and dealing with terminal illnesses. With my early education background, I provide family and parenting support.

Joyce Siler

Joyce Siler, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I'm an LMFT in CA who loves helping clients achieve their goals. I received my MA from Western Seminary in Los Gatos. I have been practicing for more than 15 years. I am a Christian therapist who is passionate about encouraging my clients in their strengths, equipping them with new tools and empowering them with renewed hope. I meet each client where they are and work with them to facilitate individual and interpersonal growth.

Jania Sommers

(she/her)

Jania Sommers, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

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.

Jason Markel

Jason Markel, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! My name is Jason Markel (pronounced Mar-Kell) and I am honored to be considered as your therapist. I am a person who is passionate and dedicated in helping others and I use that passion to help clients overcome obstacles, heal pain and move towards living the life they want to live. It is always an honor and privilege to be welcomed into someone's world and I treat it as such.

Lamont Hernandez

Lamont Hernandez, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
13 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist for the past 13 years. I graduated from the California Institute of Integral Studies in expressive arts therapy. I also have lived in a Zen Buddhist temple to do residential practice for five years. My goal is to help people feel better as soon as possible. Usually by the time a person enters therapy they have been under stress that has been building for a while. I help people identify and clarify what their goals are and present interventions that I have supported people using that help them feel better.

Sari Zuccarino

(she/her)

Sari Zuccarino, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with teens, adults, and families. I enjoy working together with my clients and listening to what they want to achieve. I support my clients by providing them with the skills they need to manage their daily struggles and ultimately reach their goals. My approach to therapy is person-centered as it allows clients to gain their own understanding of their experiences to help them with their personal growth. I use evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and mindfulness techniques to support my clients in the healing process. I like to individualize each of my client's needs, and there is a vast assortment of many other approaches and tools that I use. I'm honored to be trusted by my clients and to support them with their mental health. Knowing that I have a part in affecting the lives of others is very rewarding to me. I get great pleasure in educating and helping people reach their fullest potential to live their best life.

Vic Lloyd

(they/them)

Vic Lloyd, LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California, I live in the Palm Springs area of Southern Cal. My goal in life is to assist others with their mental health challenges and provide them with tools and education that will help them successfully manage these challenges. I look forward to seeing you in one of my sessions.

Crystal Tellez-Giron

(she/her)

Crystal Tellez-Giron, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

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.

Virginia Myricks

Virginia Myricks, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
16 years of experience
Virtual
Hello my name is Virginia Myricks, LMFT and my goal is to encourage, challenge and empower you to uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. I understand that every individual struggles with life challenges in their own unique way and it would be my pleasure to work with you on identifying your goals, offering treatment interventions that are best suited to your individual needs and to assist you in experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

Nicole Chess

Nicole Chess, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
16 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Nicole Chess and I have a masters in sport psychology and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a Master's sport psychology degree from John F. Kennedy University and I have a Masters in marriage and family therapy. I also have a B.A. in Business with a specialization in management information systems from San Jose State University, which I played on the number #1 golf team for many years and was in the LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association). I have a passion for helping individuals transform their lives and dreams into bigger and better ones. I will collaborate with you so we come up with a plan to implement practical ways to make them come true! I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy plus hypnotherapy. I can incorporate these inside therapy so that you can improve outside of therapy and in your daily life. My clients usually see improvement in as little as 3 to 4 sessions. I have worked with lawyers, pilots, pro athletes, techies, and people from all faiths and all walks of life. I also have half of two doctorate degrees I have not completed in transpersonal psychology from Sophia University and half of a doctorate in clinical psychology from San Diego University of Integrative Studies.

Tom Prinz

(he/him)

Tom Prinz, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
40 years of experience
Virtual
I maintained a private practice in Ventura, CA for about 35 years as a marriage and family therapist and i worked with children, teenagers, adults and couples. About 8 years ago my wife and i moved to Oakland, Ca to be closer to our adult children and our two granddaughters. For the past five years i have volunteered at City Team, Oakland which is a residential placement for men with anger and addiction problems, I wrote the book that i am using to teach the men at City Team and i have self published six other books on parenting, marriage and personal issues; a couple of titles are "Dragon Slaying for Parents (and Couples)" , "The Lost Aspect of Love (sympathy)", "Winning at a Losing Game" and "The First Pictorial Self-Help Book for Men Who Do Not Read". I have conducted hundreds of seminars on parenting, marriage and personal issues. I obtained a masters degree in Petroleum Engineering at UC Berkeley, and worked for Shell Company for five years; not wanting my epitaph to read that i made 10 billion dollars for an oil company and returned to school to obtain a Masters Degree in Counseling. I was a School Psychologist for a school district for five years then opened up my private practice. This experience has proven to be very valuable in counseling with adults,

Darin Deterra

(he/him)

Darin Deterra, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

Juho Kim

(he/him)

Juho Kim, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

Justin Chang

(he/him)

Justin Chang, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
11 years of experience
Virtual
Come just as you are. Reaching out during a difficult time takes real courage. If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, loneliness, relationship struggles, trauma, shame, addiction, grief, or anger, you are not alone. I am here to walk alongside you to help with bearing the weight, finding relief, beginning the healing process, and moving toward growth. I am a therapist, father, and husband. I approach the growth process with empathy, nonjudgmental curiosity, and strengths-based focus. I work with an attachment-based and trauma-informed lens through the clinical models of Bowen Theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing).

Pilar Alonso Nunez

(she/her)

Pilar Alonso Nunez, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
With 20 years of experience as a medical social worker, hospice care and hospital settings, I have had the honor of supporting clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. As an immigrant myself who has navigated my own grief journey, I bring a personal understanding to my work. Holding a PhD in cultural anthropology enriches my awareness of how culture shapes the experience of loss and healing. I’m especially passionate about providing grief therapy to immigrants, recognizing how physical distance from loved ones can complicate grief. My approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and grounded in both professional expertise and lived experience.

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.