Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 771 verified therapists in California who accept Optum insurance, you can filter by therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and solution-focused therapy to address issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist is currently welcoming new clients and has availability within the next 30 days, ensuring you have access to quality care that fits within your Optum insurance coverage.

Tiffany Coleman

Tiffany Coleman, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Tiffany Coleman, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am an Alumnus of California Baptist University. I have over 7 years of experience working in mental health as a therapist. In my clinical practice, I utilize and incorporate a combination of evidence-based practices that adapt to the unique needs of each individual. Some common treatment modalities I use in my practice include Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.

Terry Ramirez

(she/her)

Terry Ramirez, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
13 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) located in California. I earned my Master's degree from the University of California, Fresno, and I have been practicing for 13 years in various capacities. My focus is on assisting individuals who are experiencing career stress and burnout, empowering them to achieve their full potential and become the best versions of themselves.

Darian Brinton

Darian Brinton, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Darian Brinton and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe you have the answers to life's biggest challenges and questions. I have found that by providing a listening ear, and space for intentional self-reflection, everyone can make significant improvements in many areas of their lives. I have experience working with men, young adults and teens with a variety of mental health-related challenges and complex life circumstances including Men's Issues, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Divorce, and overall stress to name a few. My mission is to help you find mental clarity, clarification of values, and an increase in present awareness. My approach to working with clients is to be a guide, allowing you to uncover insights and self-discovery at your own pace. I utilize an eclectic approach utilizing modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Exposure Response Prevention to name a few. I assist in values exploration, mindfulness practices, and replacing faulty and unhelpful thoughts.

Ashton Therapy

(she/her)

Ashton Therapy, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
My therapeutic style is warm, nonjudgmental, and friendly. My hope is to help my clients understand they are not alone and there is always hope to move forward. If you have a desire to make a positive change in your life, therapy may be the right path for you. I provide a user-friendly telehealth office setting and do my best to work with your schedule.

Wade Denes

Wade Denes, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
I am not here to fix you because you are not broken. I am not here to judge you because you are free to be whoever you want to be. I am here to help you reach your goals and find a trajectory to true happiness. Your journey to wellness begins when you recognize the role you play in your own life. You are powerful, capable, and worthy of the joy you seek. I am here to walk this path with you. I have extensive experience treating clients with Relationship Distress, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Codependency, Bipolar Disorder, and Adjustment Disorder. I am a certified specialist in the areas of anxiety and addiction.

Maureen Sanders

(she/her)

Maureen Sanders, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
19 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters Degree in Social Work from California State University Los Angeles. I have been working in mental health for over 35 years, and as a licensed professional for 14 years. My area of expertise is mental health and supporting clients to be able to adjust and cope better with a myriad of life stressors.

Pam Fenenbock

(she/her)

Pam Fenenbock, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
25 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm an experienced therapist with over 25 years in the field. I have always been interested in people’s stories and support clients facing a variety of issues: insomnia, sadness, anxiety, grief/loss, relationship challenges, work and life stress,and lgbtq support. If you are facing a challenge,it may be helpful to talk to an empathetic professional trained to help you develop new perspectives, feel supported and make changes. My focus is on the uniqueness of each client and feel it is important to establish rapport and a partnership so that the therapy experience is collaborative. I will not simply sit and listen but will interact, ask questions, and offer suggestions. I enjoy working with adults of any age in individual therapy. Some of my specialties include stress management, grief and loss, anxiety , self-esteem and supporting clients facing life changes. With more than 25 years of experience, I consider myself an eclectic therapist using an Integrative Holistic approach. I use a variety of tools from different therapies including Rogerian, Cognitive Behavioral, Guided Imagery, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Client Centered and Family of Origin in order to best support a client’s journey toward relief and wholeness of Mind, Body, and Spirit. I look forward to working with you and invite you to reach out.

Victor Hernandez JR

(he/him)

Victor Hernandez JR, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LMFT
27 years of experience
Virtual
I am passionate about helping people deal with life challenges that cause them distress. My first goal is to help you identify what the problems are, how they impact relationships in your life, and what goals you want to work on to bring understanding, calm, peace, and joy back into your life. You are the expert in your life, and working together with me, I will challenge your thinking patterns to help you see alternative outcomes that align with the goals you are working toward.

Heather Byrd

Heather Byrd, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in southern California. I work with individual adults only, utilizing Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) in treating those suffering from trauma/PTSD. I enjoy working with highly motivated individuals who are ready to address their trauma and work towards being free from the triggers, distress and patterns that are affecting their daily lives.

Dorothy Foxx

(she/her)

Dorothy Foxx, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience helping individuals and families overcome challenges related to trauma, family dynamics, cultural barriers, depression, anxiety, and anger. My passion lies in empowering clients to reach their goals through the use of cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. In my private practice, I offer evidence-based individual, family, and group psychotherapies via tele-mental health technologies such as Video On Demand (VOD) and Zoom. This allows clients to express themselves in an objective and non-judgmental environment as they embark on their journey to healing. My real-world approach ensures that clients receive practical and effective support.

Marcia de Oliveira Howard

(she/her)

Marcia de Oliveira Howard, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 25 years of experience in the mental health field. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space to process, learn to unlearn that which is no longer helpful to you, and rebuild. My services can be provided in English, Portuguese, or Spanish and include stress management, coping with depression and/or anxiety, and learn to live with what cannot be changed. A meaningful life must be constructed, with care and diligence, kindness and courage.

Suzanne Pugliese

(she/her)

Suzanne Pugliese, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
13 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
1214 W F St, Oa...
My name is Suzanne and I have been working in the field of mental health since 2009. I have a passion to support others with personal growth and healing through a variety of mental health interventions. I prefer to evaluation the whole person and their history in order to best create a treatment plan that addresses each client's unique needs. The hope is to create a lasting positive change in their overall well-being and connections with others.

Meredith Mebane

(she/her)

Meredith Mebane, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I help clients to overcome the obstacles that get in the way of living a meaningful and purposeful life. I believe mental health and wellness is a lifestyle of putting yourself first mentally, emotionally, and physically. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I have a Masters in Social Work from the University of Oklahoma and a Bachelor's in Psychology from Chapman University. My primary focus includes depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, caregiver stress, relationship issues, and stress management. It is important for my clients to be comfortable, agreeable and involved throughout the treatment process. Treatment plans are individualized to meet your needs because one size does not fit all. I use a person centered strengths based approach using Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). I look forward to partnering with you on your healing journey.

Kathy Cunningham

(she/her)

Kathy Cunningham , LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, my name is Kathy. I am licensed in California as a marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing for six years. I work with adults that struggle with depression and anxiety. I have extensive experience working with individuals that have problems with substance use. I believe that you are the expert in your life. My role is to help you recognize your strengths and learn how to build on those strengths to help you become the best version of yourself.

Julianne Ybarra

Julianne Ybarra, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am Julie. We often are doing the best we can with what we are given, and I am here to help improve daily practices, routines, and maintain a life worth living. I help clients who struggle with Acute and Chronic Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety disorders, and Depressive disorders. I am trained in utilizing Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Reprocessing Desensitization (EMDR) therapy. Although, I have training in specific therapy modalities I take time to incorporate client goals and address the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness and art to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. I am excited to begin working with individuals in their journey to self-exploration and healing. "What we don't need in the midst of struggle is shame for being human." -Brene Brown

Andrea Pacheco

Andrea Pacheco, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
17 years of experience
Virtual
I am a seasoned therapist specializing in women's issues and anxiety, utilizing a relational and attachment-focused approach. In our collaborative and empathetic therapeutic space, my goal is to guide you towards balance, peace, increased self-awareness, and the profound journey of self-acceptance and self-love. Together, we will navigate challenges, fostering healing and empowering you to create your own path to lasting well-being.

Audrey Levy

(she/her)

Audrey Levy, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
45 years of experience
Virtual
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.

Gennifer Williams

(she/her)

Gennifer Williams, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
You deserve to feel well and live your most authentic life. I provide tools to help you embrace a deeper understanding of yourself, strengthen your coping mechanisms, improve your mood, and thrive with increased daily functioning, self-efficacy, self-esteem, self-awareness, and authentic self-expression. When life feels overwhelming, our minds can convince us that we are alone in our daily challenges and during our most difficult times. We get used to handling it on our own. I believe there is a better way. Working with a psychotherapist who can deeply connect with where you are on your healing journey can be transformative. Transformation might look like addressing symptoms, resolving a problem, or seeking something more. By guiding you to deeper insights and clearer understandings, together, we are better able to confront the barriers that may be holding you back from the life you want to live.

Shelly Welsh

(she/her)

Shelly Welsh, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
20 years of experience
Virtual
Are you struggling with everyday life? Do you find it hard to share how you feel because you think no one else will understand? Our life journeys can be difficult at times, but it doesn't have to be journeyed alone. I love helping people learn that they can overcome the difficulties life throws at them. I am, Shelly Welsh, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with people struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, caregiver burnout, infidelity, vocational stressors, poor coping strategies and life transitions. I work primarily from a Cognitive Behavioral Approach while incorporating person-centered and solution-focused techniques. I will help you find the barriers to healing and growth and living your best life.

Jessica Canada-Rudolph

Jessica Canada-Rudolph, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Jessica Canada-Rudolph and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I received my Master's degree from Alliant University and have been practicing for 5 years. I love what I do! I am here to help with things from decreasing anxiety symptoms to improving communication. As an LMFT, I can be a neutral ear to listen with compassion and help you discover your solutions!

Madeleine Azar

(she/her)

Madeleine Azar, LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LPCC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, I'm Maddie! Do you worry all the time? Want to feel more confident and empowered? If you need someone to talk to, I’m here to help. I bring a warm and relational approach to my work. With training in mental health, mindfulness, and yoga, my counseling style is rooted in a holistic-based approach. I also have training in issues surrounding anxiety, self esteem, grief, relationships, career, depression, personal development, and LGBTQ+ topics. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors (License #80432) and an LPCC in the State of California (License #15087). My counseling practice is supported by a Masters of Educational Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin and hundreds of hours of continued education in psychotherapy. I’m here to encourage you to become the person you would like to be. ***Online counseling is NOT recommended for persons who: - are currently dependent on drugs or alcohol or have a recent history of substance abuse. - are suicidal, homicidal, or experiencing suicidal or homicidal ideation. - are in crisis. (*If you are in need of crisis services, please contact 911, call the National Suicide Hotline at 988, or go to your local emergency room for immediate help.*) If you meet any of the criteria listed above, online counseling will not offer an adequate level of support to meet your needs at this time. I would recommend face-to-face sessions which may offer the level of contact and engagement that would be most beneficial to you.***

Kathleen Barker

(she/her)

Kathleen Barker, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
14 years of experience
Virtual
I am an alternative, openminded, non-judgmental therapist for those folks who have felt marginalized, ostracized, bullied, and judged for expressing parts of themselves that may be deemed "weird" or misunderstood. I am educated and experienced in LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma recovery, grief, relationship issues in unconventional relationships (poly, kink, platonic, etc.) I seek to help clients explore their values that have likely been buried by trauma, shame, and people-pleasing, and help form a structure to living a life that feels more genuine.

Michelle Bee

(she/her)

Michelle Bee, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
17 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I’m a Multi-Ethnic Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Biblio/Poetry Therapist, Holistic Wellness Life Coach and Small Business Coach based in California. I received my Masters from Chapman University and have been practicing for more than 15 years. I help BIPOC women experiencing unique complexities from prolonged stressors that impact their mental, emotional and physical health. This could mean feeling overwhelmed by chronic stress or emotional challenges that impact your personal and professional life. We will work together to restore wellbeing through mindful awareness, health advocacy and liberation-oriented practices.

Remi Larson

(They/Xe)

Remi Larson, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
We can find ourselves in a place where we no longer recognize the person in the mirror - that may be due to symptoms of depression or anxiety, effects of trauma, changes in identity, values, or circumstance, or a number of other things. While our past informs who we are today, it does not have to dictate where we are going tomorrow. I hope to work with you so we can understand how your experiences have come to create patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving, and how we can use this knowledge to recover from the past and create a life that feels worth living. Therapy with me brings together treatment modalities in a way that is tailored uniquely to you, your goals, and your needs. My therapeutic approach is eclectic and incorporates a variety of evidence-based interventions, including DBT, CBT, and EMDR. I also integrate neurobiology so you can understand why your mind and body are operating the way they are.

LESLIE LIBUTTI

LESLIE LIBUTTI, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
28 years of experience
Virtual
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California, I believe that therapy is team work and my goal is to create a safe space for people to share their concerns and goals. I have worked in the hospice field for many years and now I incorporate all that I have learned from this to help people improve their lives on a daily basis. My passion and compassion translate to a very dynamic and empowering therapy experience.

Monique Gary

Monique Gary, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
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.

Megan Hoff

(she/her)

Megan Hoff, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello there. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in California. I have experience working with youth, adults, and families from a variety of backgrounds. I provide individual therapy using strategies that are tailored to fit you. In sessions I often use elements of CBT, Attachment Theory, Solution Focused Therapy, and trauma informed care. I show up with empathy, humor, and patience, and I value working collaboratively alongside my clients. I believe that you are the expert on your life and my role is to provide support and guidance along the way. I often help people struggling with depression and anxiety, family and interpersonal relationship challenges, career and school stress, and self-esteem. I'm glad you're here and I look forward to meeting you!

Christina Rodriguez

(she/her)

Christina Rodriguez, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, I'm Christina. I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist that has been in practice for over 10 years. During our sessions, we'll work at your pace and where you are at emotionally. Creating a safe space filled with compassion and kindness is important to me, plus a mixture of mental health interventions. We'll set a goal and work towards achieving that goal. Don't worry, we don't have to delve deep into your past if you are not ready. Sometimes there is the need to process what you are going through at the moment and have someone to be there and listen and that's okay too. We can start there.

Marquita Dempsey

Marquita Dempsey, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters and Doctorate from Argosy University in Southern California. I have been Practicing in Mental Health for over 10 years. I have worked with children, adolescent to adults from behavior issue, family to working with those individuals incarcerated.

Laura Mason

Laura Mason, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, I'm Laura. Are you looking for a place to reflect and regroup in this ever-changing world? Do you often feel overwhelmed with responsibility, shame, or guilt that you aren't doing enough? Are you aiming to bring more peace and understanding into your life? I help adults address the difficulties and complexities of life by drawing from your own inherent strengths to help you integrate practical and manageable strategies to cope and work towards personal healing and growth. I believe in an individualized approach to therapy, utilizing a variety of modalities to address issues as a direct impact on the whole system - mind, body, and spirit. Taking the step towards therapy is so incredibly brave, and I warmly invite you to reach out to learn more. In our sessions together, I will listen with compassion and help you work through what your are facing - You don't have to do everything on your own. I look forward to meeting with you soon!

Raymond Rabbani

Raymond Rabbani, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
11 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I graduated from Alliant International University and have 11 years of experience in treatment settings ranging from residential care to routine outpatient care, treating self-harm, addiction, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relation and family conflict, life adjustments and more. Utilizing CBT, DBT, and Solution-Focused interventions will help develop insight to why things are they way they are, and how to take action towards a brighter future.

Layla Hernandez

Layla Hernandez, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Layla Hernandez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience in the mental health field. I'm fluent in English and Spanish and take a client-focused approach to therapy. I utilize evidence-based techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Solution-Focused, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), to ensure the best outcomes for my clients.

Katelyn Shields

(she/her)

Katelyn Shields, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
I love being a therapist. While I can serve and help many people with a variety of life’s challenges. I am currently working towards a certification in Sex Therapy. I want to specialize my training to work with LGBQAIP, Trans/GNC/Non-binary/2 spirit communities. I work with individuals. I am Kinky/BDSM/poly friendly. As I personally identify with many of the above-mentioned identities, I can provide therapy and expertise from a lived experience.

Rebecca Allgeier

Rebecca Allgeier, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
40 years of experience
Virtual
Hello , I am a licensed social worker based in Ohio. And I also am licensed in California and Arizona. I have been practicing for close to 40 years, so have a great deal of professional and life experience, that I can apply to my work with clients. I am motivated to help adults of any age, move forward with their lives. And there to help clients develop healthy skills that they can utilize, to become their "best selves." My approach is primarily short term/solution focused. I also see myself as a life coach for many of my clients.

James Noftle

(he/him)

James Noftle, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
My career as a classroom teacher, assistant principal and university professor served me well in my current practice as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I earned my Doctorate in Education/Ed.D. from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL. As a university professor, I became the Multiple Subject Program Director, Graduate Reading Director, and Supervisor of Student Teachers with both national and international publications.

Monique Dixon

(she/her)

Monique Dixon, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
Experiencing adversity is part of the human experience, and everyone deserves a safe space to heal and thrive. Whether you're facing communication challenges, wanting to further develop insight, or managing traumatic responses, I am here to support. Together, we will work towards solutions that promote resilience, connection, and well-being. At the foundation of all goals, I hope to instill and restore a sense of safety, trust, and empowerment in your life. In addition to my clinical work, I am passionate about advocacy and education surrounding trauma-informed care. I believe in the importance of raising awareness and reducing stigma surrounding mental health and trauma, and I actively engage in community outreach and attend regular training initiatives to stay abreast current events.

Brooke Barnidge

Brooke Barnidge, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Brooke and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I am a strengths-based, client centered, and solutions focused therapist. I strive to create an environment that you feel supported, safe, and free of judgment. I work with individuals and couples of all ages who are experiencing anxiety, depression, peer/interpersonal relationship conflicts, bullying, life transitions, low self-esteem, burnout, insomnia, anger, panic attacks, and stress management. My approach is to integrate evidence-based practice and theory while honoring your individual needs and meeting you where you are at. My goal is to provide you with the tools to enhance your quality of life and feel more confident with navigating life's presenting challenges. My promise as a therapist is to be with you every step of the way. I look forward to meeting you!

Kymberly Cruz

Kymberly Cruz, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Life can bring us challenges that feel overwhelming. As a result, you may find yourself feeling anxious, irritable, or maybe even struggling in managing your day to day life activities. If you're looking to make some changes in your life, then therapy is the perfect place to start. As an integrative client-centered therapist, I tailor my therapeutic approach to the needs of my client. You are unique and so is your journey toward healing. My job is to be flexible to your needs as we work collaboratively to help you reach your goals.

Natalie Potyagova

Natalie Potyagova, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist who had been seeing Clt for over 10 years for individual, couples and family issues. I've got my education from Pepperdine University. I enjoy working on helping you to achieve your goals in life, decrease your stress and improve your self-esteem. I've been very successful in helping Clts to eliminate their feelings of depression, anxiety, fears, uncertainties related to struggles in the relationships and also helping families to have significantly better understanding of each other.

Doris Muchirahondo

(she/her)

Doris Muchirahondo, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
14 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I’m Doris Anne Muchirahondo, and I’m here to help you navigate life’s challenges with care and expertise. I specialize in supporting individuals like you who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or misunderstood. For instance, one of my clients felt crushed by workplace stress and family conflicts, which led to emotional outbursts and strained relationships. Through therapy, we worked together to identify triggers, develop healthier communication skills, and create coping strategies that restored balance in their life. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, relationship issues, or emotional burnout, I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs. Let’s work together to move toward the fulfilling, connected, and joyful life you deserve.

Lorah Joe

(she/her)

Lorah Joe, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
24 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years clinical experience working with children, families and adults across a variety of settings including outpatient mental health, school based, crisis intervention, inpatient psychiatric facilities, large non-profit, and private practice. My goal is to assist my clients to feel comfortable in reducing their symptoms and helping them to be their optimal selves.

Dr. Terri Pittenger

(she/her)

Dr. Terri Pittenger, LP - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LP
17 years of experience
Virtual
I am a psychologist and offer services via telehealth for individuals. Problems come from a network of experiences. In our work together, we will investigate these problems: where they come from, how they are supported, what they may be telling you, how you learned from these problems, ways they can be negotiated, and times when they are not present. Nothing is wrong with you. You are simply dealing with problems the best way you know how. As we explore the problems, you will find fresh perspectives and build alternative ways of responding that enable you to build better relationships and handle problems with increased flexibility. I am an interactive therapist working with you to develop and experience more confidence, focus, and motivation to meet life’s changing demands. I help people who are doing ok on the outside figure out, and understand, why they might feel so overwhelmed on the inside. You can gain insight and clarity and increase your ability to navigate life transitions, anxiety, fear, depression, and/or traumatic experiences that have impacted your quality of life.

David Gonzalez

(he/him)

David Gonzalez, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hello and Welcome! My name is David Gonzalez and I am a bilingual (Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I’ve been in the mental health field since 2013. In the last 12 years I've had the privilege to work with children, adolescents and adults across various professional settings. My modalities of choice are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focus Brief Therapy. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety or adjusting to new life stressors, together we will develop a great treatment plan and get you to your desired goals. We will work from a holistic perspective (mind, body and spirit) and address your individualized needs. With my clinical training and your insight, I am sure we will do great work! So congrats on making it this far and for having the courage to take the first steps in your mental health journey. Let’s get to work!

Alexis Kuney

(she/her)

Alexis Kuney, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
2 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! My name is Alexis Kuney and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Southern California. Therapy and meeting a new therapist for the first time can be a little scary, but you've taken the first step, which is great! If you’ve never gone to therapy, or if it’s been a while, it’s time to move forward and rediscover the best version of yourself, and I'm here to help you do that. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, interpersonal/relationship issues, adult ADHD, and survivors of domestic violence. I also work with parents in high-conflict custody disputes to help them navigate the complexities of family court. I have a personal knowledge of what it means to struggle, and I find satisfaction in helping people solve their problems in meaningful and adaptive ways. In these unsettled times, a therapeutic support system can be beneficial to all of us. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and hopeless coping with life’s challenges, it’s helpful to have someone calm, supportive, and empathetic to listen and provide guidance. Given that everyone is unique, and our lives are complex, I tailor my approach to you and your needs. My goal is to provide an environment that is safe and supportive so that we can work collaboratively to help you reach your goals.

Michelle Settergren

(she/her)

Michelle Settergren, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
Profile: Hi there and welcome! My name is Michelle, and I'm glad you found your way here. Life has a way of introducing anxiety, stress, trauma and grief when we least expect it, and I'm here to help support you in returning to a place where you feel safe, self aware, and empowered. I believe we all have the capacity to be self-healers. I've worked in several realms of healing and medicine for more than 10 years, and I approach my therapeutic connections with warmth and curiosity. I lovingly encourage you to come as you are. My goal is to know you, not change you, and support whichever problems you feel ready to address with a transparent and authentic presence. I have experience working with adults, teens, groups, couples, families, and first responders and military, in managing struggles that come with depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, addiction, self acceptance and identity questioning, grief, adjustment issues, interpersonal concerns, and women's, LGBTQIA+, or BIPOC issues. We will work toward your goals using trauma-informed, mindfulness, CBT, DBT, and gestalt therapy with plenty of education along the way. Regular feedback is important to see what patterns are running the show on a subconscious level. I believe everyone deserves the chance to live their lives in their truest form, with care, respect and self-empowerment. *Currently only accepting referrals for individual therapy (18+)*

Kelly Hanzy

(she/her)

Kelly Hanzy, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
3065 Freeport B...
Welcome! I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist practicing in the golden state of California. I received my Master’s from John F. Kennedy University in California and have been practicing for 8 years. I work with couples, families and individuals as young as 16 years of age. I look forward to supporting you and working towards a better version of yourself! A little about myself: I love being active, which includes hiking, cycling, working out in the gym. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I believe in practicing what I share with clients, I don’t just say things and live the complete opposite. SELFCARE is the best care and the best way to ensure you’re in the best position to help! Be well. And cheers to a long healthy life!

Molly Higgins

(she/her)

Molly Higgins, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
9 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Molly Higgins and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) in the state of California. I have been doing therapy for almost 10 years and have worked with adults through telehealth since 2020, focusing on depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions and stress. I have a background in community mental health, where I focused on strengthening parent-child relationships. I individualize treatment for each clients, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, with a foundation of a person-centered approach.

Angela Zhang

(she/her)

Angela Zhang, LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LPCC
4 years of experience
Virtual
I am an LPCC credentials in the State of California. I received MA Counseling training from LMU. I have been practicing for the past 4 years and come from a community mental health background. I hope to help client feel heard, validated, and empowered to manage life's stresses. I believe in a strong therapeutic alliance and will utilize humor to provide reframing of clinical situations.

Kellett Tighe Psychotherapy

(he/him)

Kellett Tighe Psychotherapy, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
14 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, #135129. I received a Master of Art in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles, where I specialized in Psychology of Trauma. I support individuals of all ages in processing a wide range of issues, including but not limited to, HIV, substance use disorder and various patterns of addiction, intimate partner issues, trauma, both current and past involving families and work environments, depression, self-esteem, anxiety and relationship difficulties.

Kathy Kelly

(she/her)

Kathy Kelly, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
17 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Kathy Kelly, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been licensed since 2009 and have experience working with individuals, couples, adolescents, and families in crisis. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, adjustment disorders, and understanding behavior patterns that are set from childhood. I have extensive experience working with individuals who are experiencing difficult life changes, stress, and chronic mental health disorders. The most common approaches that I use are cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, emotionally focused, mindfulness, solutions focused, grief, and trauma focused therapy. I am confortable working with various levels of life experiences, including childhood trauma, current stressors, life transitions, and I appreciate using psychodynamic and family systems therapy to help my clients understand and identify patterns of behavior, and negative thought patterns that originated from their past experiences. I provide a safe space with the goal of making my clients feel welcome, comfortable, and at ease. I have been very successful at teaching clients coping skills, and helping clients process their feelings and emotions with the goal of finding peace, happiness, and an overall sense of well being. Your journey begins today and I will be there with you to guide you and support you.

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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 Optum?

Yes! If you use Optum you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Optum you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

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.