Book 100+ of the best Optum therapists in California
Find the best Optum therapist in California for your needs on Grow Therapy. Grow Therapy has 859 verified therapists accepting Optum who are accepting new patients and have availability in the next 30 days. Grow Therapy verifies every therapist using our team of in-house specialists. Grow Therapy only shows therapists we know are active and accepting new patients.Find the best Optum therapist in California for your needs on Grow Therapy. G...
Kimber A Harvey
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
18 years of experience
Virtual
Coarsegold, CA - Accepting clients in CA
When life's challenges - work, relationships, money troubles, illness or injury become too much to manage, or when the pain of the past pops up when you least expect it to disrupt sleep, or when daily stressors build up and make it hard to cope, that's when more than a friendly ear is needed. That's when a professional can help you heal the compounding effects of life experiences.
If you are seeking long-term relief from anxiety, trauma, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, grief or loss, I will help you heal those emotional injuries that compound over a lifetime and make life lose its meaning. And I will empower you to heal the emotional pain that is preventing you from living your best life.
Audrey Levy
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
45 years of experience
Virtual
Los Angeles, CA - Accepting clients in CA
As a Doctor of Psychology and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist for 45+ years, I am experienced in helping my clients deal with issues such as Loss and Grief Recovery, Substance Abuse, Anger Management, Crisis Counseling, Stress Reduction, Depression and Anxiety. I provide a calm, empathetic, and nurturing environment where you will feel heard, and most importantly, understood. Together we will work on ways to help you understand your feelings and compulsions.
My grieving clients experience closure through writing letters to their loved ones who have died. This letter writing is effective for all forms of loss. Reading the letters aloud is very healing as it encourages acceptance, and permits moving on to build a life filled with love and laughter.
I've dealt with my own grief, loss and growth by writing a book series, "The Adventures of the Angel Oleo," as well as "The Dog Bible for Humans - Advice from Dogs to Humans of All Ages." I hope you have an opportunity to read one of my books and that I get to help you, and someone you know.
Laurissa Miller
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
1 year of experience
Virtual
Camarillo, CA - Accepting clients in CA
My name is Laurissa Miller. I am an LCSW that lives in Ventura County, California. I have 13 years of experience with kids, trauma, PTSD, and foster care. I have also worked with children with Autism and ADHD. My goal is always to meet my clients where they are at and work as a team to help them accomplish their goals. I look forward to working with you.
Luis Ciprez
(he/him)
Optum
LCSW
18 years of experience
Virtual
Woodside, CA - Accepting clients in CA
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.
Danielle Murphy
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Santa Clarita, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hi, I am Danielle. Do you find yourself struggling with motivation or struggling with negative feelings? Are you continuously worrying, resulting in feeling exhausted and irritable? Are you wondering if you will feel normal again? I provide help for those experiencing stress, excessive worry, burnout and lingering unhappiness. I am empathetic, warm, and direct. I am supportive and respectful of clients while offering insight.
Chris Caston
Optum
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Orange, CA - Accepting clients in CA
I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Beth Tiras
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
18 years of experience
Virtual
Accepting clients in CA
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.
Haneda Knox
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Santa Clara, CA - Accepting clients in CA
I am Filipino American and immigrated to the United States as a child. While I am not fluent in Tagalog, I can understand Tagalog. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based in Santa Clara County. I received my master's degree in social work from San Jose State University (SJSU). I have experience working with younger to older adults who struggle with depression and anxiety.
Nickole Iadarola
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
14 years of experience
Virtual
Santa Rosa, CA - Accepting clients in CA
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California with over 14 years of experience. I take an eclectic, client-centered approach—drawing from CBT, DBT, mindfulness, psychodynamic, and depth psychology to meet each client’s unique needs. I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and PTSD, creating a safe and supportive space for healing and growth.
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, I blend techniques from Person-Centered Therapy, CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic Theory, Mindfulness, and Depth Psychology. This flexible style allows us to work on both immediate relief and lasting transformation—always with your unique needs at the center.
I believe therapy should feel safe, supportive, and empowering. My goal is to create a space where you feel truly heard, understood, and encouraged to grow at your own pace. Let’s discover what healing can look like for you.
Justin Kram
(he/him)
Optum
LMFT
13 years of experience
Virtual
San Francisco, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) currently based and practicing in Oregon, though with an active license in California as well. I attended California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) for graduate school and lived in the Bay Area for a decade before moving to Portland, OR shortly before the pandemic. I have over thirteen years of experience as a "generalist" therapist, though I specialize in supporting individuals in the midst of life transitions, including but not limited to: relationship challenges, moves to a new city or state, new or chronic medical diagnoses, career and work problems, spiritual questioning, transitions into the workforce or retirement. I do NOT work with couples at this time. While I consider the psychological theories behind my work, I hold them lightly in the room, believing most fundamentally in the importance of an adaptive, culturally-sensitive, non-judgmental stance with my clients.
PLEASE NOTE: your chosen intake appointment time is subject to my final approval based on my shifting availability. I see clients on multiple platforms and am unable to sync all of my calendars in real time. Following the initial appointment, we will find a mutually agreeable meeting time and I will manage the booking on the Grow platform going forward, including rescheduling and cancellations. You will need to message me directly to cancel or reschedule your appointment. I request the courtesy of as much advanced notice as possible. I am not able to work with clients who cancel without 24 hrs advanced notice or no show more than twice.
Sabrina Word
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Vacaville, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Thank you for being here and taking the nexts steps towards your own wellness.
I am Sabrina Word, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters from San Jose State University, Go Spartans! I have over 14 years of experience in areas of sexual violence and intimate partner violence, advocacy, violence prevention, and health education. For the past 8 years, I have been providing direct services for high acuity clients providing therapy, case management and crisis services to current and former foster youth. Clients appreciate my warm and inviting space while bring curiosity and support for them in finding their voice.
Scott Crusey
(he/him)
Optum
LMFT
9 years of experience
Virtual
La Mesa, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello! My name is Scott. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California and truly have a passion for helping others to gain wellness. I am originally from sunny San Diego, California. After working in the field in several roles, I made the decision to ultimately be a Marriage and Family Therapist. Since then, I have truly loved every minute of what I do. My personal philosophy is that healing begins with understanding, connection and hope. Unfortunately, at this time, I do not see couples.
Brenda Navarrete
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
San Jacinto, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello! My name is Brenda and I am a licensed clinical social worker. As a dedicated and empathetic mental health professional with over 6 years of experience, I am deeply committed to helping adolescents and young adults navigate their emotional and psychological challenges. My journey into therapy began with a profound personal interest in understanding human behavior and a desire to support others in their pursuit of mental well-being.
Monique Gary
Optum
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
Long Beach, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello, my name is Monique and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I earned my Master's Social Work (MSW) from The University Southern California (USC) and have been practicing for over 15 years. I help adult women and men face, overcome and win the internal struggle within themselves. These struggles could be a result of trauma, anxiety, depression etc.
Tracy McClendon
Optum
LCSW
18 years of experience
Virtual
Stockton, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Tracy McClendon, LCSW is a therapist who believes we all have the capacity to grow and looks forward to helping you on your mental health journey. Is it possible you have come to a point in your life where you want change, need to get in control of you or your environment? With direction, support, serenity you can learn to master negative thought processes that bring about negative emotions and behaviors. She believes together, you will build upon your strengths, identify your concerns and you will overcome your challenges.
Luke Barrett
(he/him)
Optum
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Fresno, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Luke is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a background in emergency medical services, hospital emergency departments, and health care for the homeless. He is a United States Coast Guard veteran located in California. Luke has a bachelor's degree in psychology, a master's degree in social work, and a master's degree in public administration. Luke believes in solution focused therapy, positive psychology, harm reduction, and cognitive behavioral therapy to improve quality of life and achieve goals. In therapy, Luke emphasizes healthy habit development, consistent focus on goals, and accountability.
Jules Gomez
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
Lakewood, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my Masters from the University of Southern California and have been providing mental health treatment for 12 years. I have experience working with clients of all ages to manage major life transitions, move through traumatic stress, and build a toolkit of coping skills to manage day to day challenges.
Paul Ellingsen
(he/him)
Optum
LMFT
30 years of experience
Virtual
Elfin Forest, CA - Accepting clients in CA
I am a licensed psychotherapist and hold bachelor’s and master’s degrees in psychology. I have over 30 years experience and have performed thousands of hours of counseling. I have worked across a broad spectrum of mental health settings including private practice, CPS, Residential Treatment Centers, substance abuse facilities, psychiatric hospitals, and conducted psychiatric evaluations in a hospital ER. I've seen it all and dealt with it all. My life’s work has been dedicated to assisting people overcoming problems, and living happier, more rewarding and fulfilling lives.
Jennifer Sturm
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Accepting clients in CA
Hello, my name is Jennifer and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I received my master's degree from the University of Southern California and have been practicing for over 10 years. I help women who are experiencing emotional challenges, life transitions, health issues, and so on, to be able to feel unstuck in their lives and begin to move forward.
Michele Scyoc
Optum
LMFT
30 years of experience
Virtual
Loma Linda, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Are you struggling in living your best life? Do you feel ‘off’ and not sure why? Having difficulties in your interpersonal relationships at home/work?
Is the past keeping you feeling stuck?
I will help identify and explore barriers keeping you feel ‘stuck’ in life. We’ll work together in identifying what is keeping you from living an authentic and fulfilling life.
I will work with you in developing healthy coping strategies and tools in order to enrich your everyday life and overall functioning. This can be with family, friends, or in whatever capacity you’re struggling. We can identify how anxiety and depressive symptomolgy presents. How you currently deal with interpersonal and behavioral issues and develop new healthy coping strategies.
Yasmine Khoushab
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
9 years of experience
Virtual
Los Angeles, CA - Accepting clients in CA
I’m a therapist who helps individuals navigate personal struggles, heal from past trauma, and create healthier, more fulfilling lives. I specialize in supporting clients through codependency, life transitions, and emotional challenges, bringing it all back to you. I help you see yourself clearly, separating the lies from the pain, and discerning guidance from truth. Together, we’ll work toward self-compassion and courage, helping you awaken, transform, and emerge into the empowered version of yourself that’s always been within you.
Yohanna Tamayo
Optum
LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
Victorville, CA - Accepting clients in CA
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) who is bilingual in Spanish and English, with a primary focus on conducting therapy in Spanish.
As a woman, mother, and wife, I deeply believe in the inherent value, love, and potential of each individual. I hold a strong belief in the infinite love of God for all of us, and I am a firm advocate for the possibility of change. I have witnessed the transformative journeys of my clients and recognize the power within each person to grow and thrive.
Elizabeth Lachapelle
Optum
LP
36 years of experience
Virtual
Plymouth, CA - Accepting clients in CA
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.
Jo Beth Vannatta Krebs
(she/her)
Optum
LPCC
7 years of experience
Virtual
Monterey, CA - Accepting clients in CA
It takes courage and resiliency to embark on the journey of finding your “best self.” Life is full of unique challenges and lessons including traumatic events, grief, relationships and family all can take their toll on our psyche. I use an eclectic, integrative, approach that includes Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy and Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Clinical Hypnosis for pain management, performance enhancement and memory retention among other treatments to find what restores joy and peace to you! My goal is to provide a supportive, caring space to work on your symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, post-partem depression, grief or any other diagnosis that is impacting your daily life.
I am a Christian having attended all Christian Universities but embrace all spiritual practices. I respect all faiths, beliefs and cultures and consider myself an ally to the LGBTQ community.
I very much believe in a holistic whole body wellness plan. Lets work on living your best life ever with Mind, Body and Spirit working together!
Adrianne L. Clinton
(she/her)
Optum
LPCC
23 years of experience
Virtual
Winterhaven, CA - Accepting clients in CA
I'm credentialed by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) and licensed as a professional counselor (LPC) in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and California. I'm a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC), through the Pennsylvania Certification Board and Florida Certification Board. I work purposefully with those experiencing mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use, and trauma.
"If you have come across my profile, chances are you may be at a crossroads in life. We've all been in this place at one time or another, and I can help you grow as you navigate through the process. The power lies in the process itself! Change requires a decision, coupled with the willingness to take action. As a seasoned therapist, I understand that counseling is a contact sport, requiring participation and teamwork. Therefore, I implore you to invest in yourself!
Natalia Manzary
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Los Angeles, CA - Accepting clients in CA
My name is Natalia Manzary and I am a Licenced Clinical Social Worker. Born and raised in Hawthorne, CA, I embarked on my career in Social Work in 2016. I have experience working with families and individuals of all ages (young children, adolescents, young adults, and adults).
Growing up, the topic of mental health was a discussion that was frowned upon. At a young age, I noticed the cycles of trauma and fear to express oneself were continuously passed on, which essentially creates a limited environment for a person to thrive and grow. My passion for therapy grew as I learned about the stigmas in mental health. Through personal and professional experiences, I can assist my clients with navigating the different spaces and people that one encounters in life.
My goal is to explore childhood and trauma, eliminating maladaptive coping by learning and acquiring an array of skills, focusing on strengths, and developing strong communication skills to maintain self-respect and advocate for your needs.
Yadira Reyes
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
Bell Gardens, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Welcome — I’m so glad you’re here.
I specialize in supporting overwhelmed professionals, parents, and those feeling stuck or burnt out. With over a decade of experience as a therapist and coach, I help clients regain balance, reconnect with their goals, and strengthen their emotional well-being. Whether you're navigating parenting challenges, career stress, or just feel like you've lost your spark, I offer practical tools and compassionate support to help you move forward.
If you've tried therapy before but still feel like something’s missing, you’re not alone — and I’m here to help. Let’s explore what’s getting in the way and create a plan to help you live with more clarity, confidence, and peace.
Virginia Myricks
Optum
LMFT
16 years of experience
Virtual
Accepting clients in CA
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.
Melissa Decraene
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
14 years of experience
Virtual
Accepting clients in CA
Are you struggling with your work-life balance, family unit, parent-child relationship, or other relationships? Are these conflicts bringing you overwhelming emotions and distress? Are you in need of more healthy coping skills?
As a professional therapist (LMFT) of over 12 years, I strive to empower client success while being a guiding presence in a supportive and safe space. By managing anxiety and dealing with burnout in the workplace/school, at home, and in relationships you can involve yourself in ideas and activities that bring you to the present and guide you toward your desired future.
I am currently working with individual clients 18 and over only, and not accepting couples.
Crystal Cardenas
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Los Angeles, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hola! I’m a bilingual, Latina Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. All clients have the power to heal, and I provide a judgement free and compassionate space to help you navigate life’s challenges. Together, we’ll explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences to develop coping strategies that support your healing and growth. My goal is to empower you to build a healthy, meaningful life rooted in resilience and self-awareness.
Kim Johnson
Optum
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Spring Valley, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello, my name is Kim. I have over 8 years experience working with adult individuals in community care, mental health and medical settings. I use a collaborative, person-centered, solutions-focused approach. I love working with clients who may consider themselves non traditional, who are looking for creative tools to navigate the inevitable chaos of life and land on a path that is authentic to self.
Laura Barone
Optum
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
Santa Monica, CA - Accepting clients in CA
I believe therapy is a journey of exploration, growth, and transformation. No two people are the same, and that’s why I take an integrative approach, drawing from a variety of evidence-based modalities to tailor treatment to each individual’s unique needs. I hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work from New York University and I am committed to lifelong learning, continuously deepening my expertise in trauma-informed care and evidence-based therapeutic modalities to ensure I provide the highest level of support to my clients.
Alessandra Szekir
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
San Diego, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello and Seja bem-vindo! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I grew up in Brazil and moved to California to pursue my career as a therapist. I truly believe that due to life challenges, stressful jobs, career and busy lifestyle, it's very easy to dismiss our inner voice. That is the voice that wants to be heard, tell us about our emotions and hurdles. Allowing your inner voice to be heard will empower you to embrace the beautiful journey of self discovery.
Carrissa Duncan
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Accepting clients in CA
As a therapist, I have learned that the best gift I can give to my clients is to provide a secure attachment in the therapeutic alliance so that clients can begin to cultivate secure attachments in their own personal lives. It is my intention to create this therapeutic space for each one of my unique clients from our first session together.
Susana Garcia-Guzman
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
Lindsay, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hola! I'm Susana a first generation Latina, bilingual, (Spanish & English) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. First, I'd like to acknowledge the courage it takes to start your therapy journey you made it to the first step! Starting therapy can feel nerve wracking, but you won't be alone. You will be welcomed, seen and heard in a safe space. I have worked with youth, parents and young adults since 2014 and have been practicing as a therapist for the last 6 years, helping clients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and several other needs. I look forward to helping people looking to break through cycles of stigma, intergenerational trauma, lived traumatic experiences and learn tools to navigate life's challenges.
Loc Vu
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
San Jose, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hi there, I'm Loc. Do you find yourself struggling with life's challenges and in need of support to move forward?
I help clients manage anxiety and depression while also preventing burnout. Together, we can identify what isn't working in your life and get you back to a state of balance and on track.
Whether you're facing overwhelming relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel daunting, but it's a positive step to take. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll provide a trusting environment and focus on practical solutions to help you overcome the obstacles and habits that are holding you back. Let's work together!
Shanekka Brown-Johnson
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
Fresno, CA - Accepting clients in CA
I'm Shanekka N. Brown-Johnson, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 20 years of experience in behavioral health. I provide person-centered, culturally sensitive therapy to individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and relationship challenges. My approach blends evidence-based practices like CBT, ACT, DBT, and motivational interviewing to help clients feel seen, supported, and empowered to create meaningful change.
Yuxi Tang
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Pasadena, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hi! I am Yuxi (Karen). I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in the State of California with over ten years of experience in various healthcare settings. I firmly believe that every individual's journey is unique and powerful, and I am a staunch advocate for person-centered care. I would be honored to have the opportunity to become a part of your journey and provide support as we navigate through your difficult times.
Anupama Masih
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
22 years of experience
Virtual
Accepting clients in CA
Hi. I’m Anupama. I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist. I have worked with issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD. Panic disorder. I have lots of experience with couples issues and domestic violence. I have also worked with parenting issues I have a calming and gentle approach I like to make my clients feel comfortable right away.
Brian Wedderburn
(he/him)
Optum
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Santa Rosa, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, but I strive to make the process easier by creating a space where you feel understood, supported, and empowered. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with six years of experience, I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next steps, I offer a practical, down-to-earth approach that meets you where you are.My clients appreciate that I'm genuine, nonjudgmental, and easy to talk to. Therapy with me is a collaboration—I’m here to help you process emotions, untangle patterns, and build strategies that make sense for your life. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach, and we’ll work together to create a plan that aligns with your needs and goals. I also understand the complexities of identity, relationships, and navigating life’s pressures, especially for young to middle aged adults who are juggling careers, personal growth, and interpersonal dynamics. If you’re feeling unseen, unheard, or just need space to sort things out, you don’t have to do it alone.
Michael Chavez
(he/him)
Optum
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
Riverside, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hi, my name is Michael (Mike) Chavez, LCSW, and I provide individual therapy to adults facing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship issues. My therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy, active listening, and collaboration. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and supported. Together, we’ll explore what’s not working in your life and develop practical tools and strategies to create positive, lasting change. Sometimes that means identifying and replacing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors with ones that better align with your values and goals. My goal is to help you feel more empowered, balanced, and resilient.
Nicole Chess
Optum
LMFT
16 years of experience
Virtual
Palm Desert, CA - Accepting clients in CA
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.
Julia May
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Accepting clients in CA
Hello, I'm Julia May. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Art Therapist specializing in helping young adults and adults navigate challenges such as codependency, relationship issues, addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. My approach combines traditional talk therapy with the creative process of art therapy to foster self-discovery and healing. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, gain insight, and build the tools needed to thrive. Together, we work toward meaningful change and greater well-being.
Shyanne Grandi
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
17 years of experience
Virtual
El Cajon, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hello! My name is Shyanne and I am an Art Therapist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist living and working in San Diego. For more than 15 years, I've worked with young people, their families, and adults, offering support as they creatively engage their strengths to overcome obstacles and enhance their lives. Art making in therapy is a great way to support communication, growth, and resilience during times of personal challenge. I work from an inclusive, strengths based, and trauma informed lens. I look forward to getting to know you!
Celeste Zarpas
(she/her)
Frequently rebooked
Optum
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
Accepting clients in CA
Hi, I'm Celeste!
I am passionate about helping people live a happier life- whether that means learning how to better manage anxiety, working through traumas, or developing a kinder inner monologue. I believe in order to make any changes, we must first understand how we got here. That is why I place a big emphasis on insight and help you understand how you got where you are, why it makes sense, and how we can change it.
Megan Meredith
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
3 years of experience
Virtual
Moorpark, CA - Accepting clients in CA
My name is Megan Meredith and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California. I received my Masters in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and have been practicing for 3 years. I have several years of experience with young adults and adolescents, and I worked for several years as a School-Based Therapist. I provide therapy via a person-centered approach with tailored interventions to address emotional, behavioral, and relational issues. My area of focus includes anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, grief and loss, and issues related to life transitions. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and aims to reduce problematic symptoms and improve clients' self-esteem, insight, and overall quality of life.
Amy Lykes
( )
Frequently rebooked
Optum
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Folsom, CA - Accepting clients in CA
My name is Amy, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in El Dorado Hills, California. I work with clients statewide via Telehealth. In my years as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have worked with individuals of all ages, from diverse cultural backgrounds and with a broad spectrum of struggles impacting their life. My practice is based on a foundation of providing a warm and compassionate attitude into my work with individuals, and being especially attuned to providing a safe, non-judgmental space.
Yashica Budde
Frequently rebooked
Optum
LMFT
17 years of experience
In-person
2380 Shasta Way...
Simi Valley, CA - Accepting clients in CA
I'm Yashica a LMFT located in Simi Valley, California. I am a seasoned mental health therapist with over two decades of clinical knowledge and experience. My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that hope is the catalyst for change. By helping you challenge and replace irrational thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes, I aim to set you free to embrace transformation.
Jessica Garcia
Frequently rebooked
Optum
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
Mountain View, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Life can be a lot sometimes. Whether you're going through a big change, feeling stuck, or just need a space to vent—I’m here to listen, support, and help you sort through it all. I bring warmth, straightforwardness, and a sense of humor into the sessions. Healing can still be intentional without being heavy all of the time.
I have over 11 years of experience and a special focus on working with: People in the middle of big life transitions—new chapters/endings, Clients working through generational trauma, especially those wanting to break cycles and reclaim their voice, and BIPOC individuals navigating cultural dynamics, and the weight of systemic stress.
Allison MacIntyre
(she/her)
Optum
LMFT
20 years of experience
Virtual
Woodland Hills, CA - Accepting clients in CA
Hi! I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist, practicing since 2003. I have spent my career helping people find success and feel better about themselves. I have extensive experience working with adolescents and families, as well as individuals with dual diagnosis (mental health issues with substance disorder). The brain is my favorite organ in the human body and I love using education and skills to help people find mastery over their emotions.