Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 909 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.

Availability updated: 8/10/2026

New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Peer Relationships
Women's Issues
+6
In my practice, I am dedicated to supporting clients through life transitions, relationship challenges, anxiety, and personal growth. My clinical focus includes working with individuals who are navigating stress, building self-esteem, and seeking greater balance and clarity in their lives. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and goal-oriented, with a focus on helping clients build insight, strengthen coping skills, and develop a more confident and compassionate sense of self. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful and lasting changes.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Humorous
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
LGBTQ
+10
My name is Deems and I'm an LCSW. I am heavily CBT and DBT based but as with most therapists, I draw from a lot of places depending on the situation. I am casual, chatty, eclectic in both my work and my personal interests, and am big on transparency and accountability. Queer and Poly friendly. Big nerd. Dad. I like art, the gym, reading, and going overboard on a new hobby every 6 months.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Holistic
Humorous

Specialties

Grief
Racism
Sexual Abuse
+10
Hi, I’m a licensed therapist with over six years of experience helping individuals with healing and growth. I focus on trauma-informed care, working with youth and adults who have experienced commercial sexual exploitation, are involved in the sex trade, or are dealing with complex trauma, anxiety, and life changes. I also address anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and personal growth using evidence-based practices like CBT, mindfulness, and trauma-informed care. I am dedicated to creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for healing and self-discovery. My approach is rooted in compassion, cultural humility, and collaboration—I believe in meeting you where you are and walking alongside you at your own pace.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Depression
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+5
My name is Jonathan Meza, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I have been working in the mental health field since 2008. My practice is based in the Los Angeles area in Southern California, but I am also available via telehealth for clients throughout the state. Finding the right therapist for you is important. I'm known for being a great listener, and a kid at heart. I'm a believer that life’s hardships can be opportunities for amazing growth. My approach is to gently challenge my clients with sensitivity for everyone's unique pace in self-discovery and motivation to achieve their goals.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Direct
Solution oriented

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Hi my name is Ray Radeka, LCSW, CATC IV. I am a US Navy Veteran. Huge Dodger fan :)! I want to congratulate you on having the courage to reach out for assistance, it is not an easy thing to do. That being said you are already on your way to healing! I am a strength based, solution focused, compassionate, empathetic - intersectional therapist. I was born and raised in Southern California. I attended California Baptist University for my masters. My lived experiences on every level has motivated and prepared me to become a therapist. I have been in the mental health/substance abuse field, for 13 years, 8 of that was working as a Drug and Alcohol counselor specializing in Co-occurring disorders, which is someone that has been diagnosed with a Mental Health disorder and also suffers from a Drug or Alcohol addiction. I have now been practicing as a Clinical Therapist for the last 5 + years. My experience has been working with patients who suffer from Drug and Alcohol addiction, mood disorder, relationship issues, communication problems, First Responders and nurses. Veterans with severe mental illness, PTSD , co-occurring disorders, Sex addiction. Coping with symptoms of Bipolar Disorder, Depression and Anxiety, Emotion dysregulation, Anger Management. My clinical approach leans towards CBT, DBT, Strength based, Solution Focus Therapy, Meditation and Mindfulness, ACT, Trauma focus therapy. As was as assisting in developing healthy communication habits and skills. “Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day”. —Dalai Lama
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Autism
Military/Veterans
+10
Robin Hall, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in the state of California and Hawaii. She attained her Master's in Social Work from the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, in 2009. Robin's professional journey has led her to work extensively in areas such as sleep challenges, PTSD, anxiety, and trauma, where she uses a combination of evidence-based therapeutic approaches. In her therapy sessions, Robin prioritizes creating a safe, judgment-free environment where people can openly express themselves, ensuring that you feel seen, heard, and valued throughout the journey towards healing and growth.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Dissociative Disorders
Self-Harming
Trauma and PTSD
Hi there, I'm Aimee! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I most commonly use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as my therapeutic approach. I work hard to help people pinpoint the changes they want to see in their life and assist with navigating the path toward a values driven and meaningful life. Many of us like to avoid uncomfortable feelings. I like to help people get comfortable with feeling uncomfortable.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+6
Hi, I’m Cassandra! I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University. I’ve had exciting opportunities to work in a variety of therapeutic settings including an inpatient psychiatric hospital treating a higher level of acuity, intensive outpatient program supporting teens and young adults, a residential facility working with incarcerated youth, and an outpatient program at a University counseling center.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Empowering
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Depression
Grief
Life Transitions
+9
Hi and welcome! We all struggle with the human condition from time to time. As your therapist I’m here to meet you with genuine connection, to truly see and hear you. It's only in a safe, supportive space that we can truly unpack the thoughts, feelings, and patterns that shape our lives and create lasting, intentional change. I offer a unique blend of motivational coaching and in-depth therapy. Together, we’ll take a holistic look at your unique humanness - your strengths, struggles, values and patterns - while working toward practical, goal-oriented solutions that help you reduce emotional suffering and move forward in your life, relationships, and career.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
+1
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
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
+4
Hi, I’m Tyana Larise Ingram, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Financial Social Worker with over 10 years of experience supporting women through life's challenges. I help women navigate burnout, grief, anxiety, financial stress, and major life transitions while reconnecting with their strengths and sense of self. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs, with optional Christian faith integration available for those who desire it.
Available
Warm
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+4
Are you feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Are you ready to make a change? It takes courage to ask for help. Therapy can be rewarding and lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. I have experienced the emotional challenges of life and can understand and empathize. In working together, we can cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and developing solutions that can help you gain control over your life and achieve your goals. Ultimately, therapy can lead you to greater self-esteem, self-awareness and most importantly, a more fulfilling life. As your therapist, I will provide a safe, caring, non-judgmental and confidential environment. I use an integrated approach to meet the specific needs and goals of my clients. I have experience working with adults, couples, teens and children
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Solution oriented
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Coping Skills
+5
Hello! I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with extensive experience helping individuals navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. I utilize evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), I guide clients on a journey of healing, personal growth, and transformation, empowering them to lead more fulfilling and balanced lives.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Humorous
Open-minded

Specialties

Couples Counseling
LGBTQ
Mood Disorders
My name is Michael Southerland and I have over 30 years experience in working with people in mental health, 10 years as a licensed therapist. I have worked in child welfare and adoptions, juvenile systems, and community mental health. I have been in private practice for a total of 8 years. I truly enjoy helping others become their best selves. I am looking forward to meeting you.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+9
Hello, I am an older adult who came to this career after a long career in the non-profit sector. Over the years, I have worked with a wide variety of clients with a wide variety of issues and circumstances. The bulk of my previous experience in the nonprofit world was in substance use disorder treatment programs. My training as a therapist includes specialized training for a wide variety of disorders. I am known for being empathic, honest and insightful and a relentless cheerleader for my clients. I am very interactive and I will offer liberal doses of feedback and suggestions. I will provide psycho-education and will look to you for feedback about how you are feeling about the therapy. We will address the therapy as a team. My ideal client is someone motivated to improve their life. I work with clients who can benefit from 1 month to 1 year of therapy.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Empowering
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
+8
Welcome! ¡Bienvenido! My name is Silvia and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of California. My mission is to create a positive, supportive space where you feel truly empowered. Therapy should feel like a meaningful conversation—one that helps you breathe a little easier and feel a little lighter each time we meet. I strive to offer an environment where you feel heard, supported, guided, and safe. Through a humanistic approach, I focus on making our time together feel valuable, collaborative, and deeply meaningful.
VirtualAvailable
Intelligent
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+3
I am a licensed therapist with a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Baroda. I have extensive experience working with individuals facing challenges with depression and anxiety, helping them find purpose and achieve their life goals. My communication style is warm, empathetic, and focused on motivational interviewing and mindfulness-based techniques. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can openly express themselves.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Hi! My name is Heather Colquhoun (Cal-hoon). I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have received my Master's and Doctorate degrees in Couple & Family Therapy in Sacramento. I embody a safe, empathic, and compassionate presence while walking alongside adolescents, adults, couples, and families during their journeys of self-discovery, empowerment, growth, and healing. I offer a humanistic, collaborative, and trauma-informed approach with humor on the side. I believe that you have the innate ability to heal, grow, and thrive. You are deserving of protection, consideration, and care. I look forward to have the opportunity to be a part of your healing journey with you while navigating new ways to create safety, stability, self-love, and wellness. It is time to put yourself first and create the life you love.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+7
✦ At this time, new client availability is limited to morning and afternoon appointments. Evening sessions (4:00 PM and later) are reserved for established clients only, even if evening openings appear available online. Hola! I’m a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed psychotherapist (LMFT) based in California with a decade of experience. I received my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy with an emphasis in Clinical Art Therapy from Loyola Marymount University. I specialize in supporting adolescents and adults of all ages who are facing mental health challenges that affect their daily lives and aspirations. As an art therapist, I offer art therapy sessions where no previous art experience is necessary. This approach combines traditional psychotherapy with creative expression to help you process emotions and integrate body and mind.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). In 1991, I obtained a B.H. in Social Psychology from The Universidad Autonoma de Baja California (Mexico). In 2008, I graduated from University of Phoenix with an M.A. in Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy. I have more than 22 years of experience working with patients—including adolescents, parents, adults, and couples. My focus is on improving relationships and addressing mental or emotional issues such as depression, anxiety, phobias, trauma, psychosocial stressors, life challenges, and personal goals.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Peer Relationships
Self Esteem
+3
Nice to meet you and thanks for visiting my page! I'm a bilingual therapist (English/Spanish) with a CBT, affirming and open-minded approach. I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma PTSD, women's issues, relationship challenges and anger management. I'm an active listener, focused on your story and the life experiences that shaped your journey. I believe transparency and trust are key to building a strong therapeutic relationship.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Humorous
Warm

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Depression
Mood Disorders
+9
"Healing may not be so much about getting better, as about letting go of everything that isn't you – all of the expectations, all of the beliefs – and becoming who you are." - Rachel Naomi Remen Hello! I am Lauresha Hawkins, LCSW, MSW, MPH. I am the CE0 and Founder of Mental Wellness University, Licensed Clinical Social Worker Inc., which is located in California. I am licensed in the state of California and Alaska. I am independently contracted with Grow Therapy. With trust and rapport as the foundation of our therapeutic alliance, my approach is eclectic in style and based on meeting the unique needs of who I serve. Possessing a passion for serving and inspiring people from all walks of life, I have experience working with individuals who have challenges with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, substance abuse, and perinatal mental health disorders. With fifteen years of experience in the field of social work, I have dedicated eight of those years to providing mental health services as an associate and licensed mental health professional in various settings, including residential therapeutic treatment facilities, outpatient clinics, and hospitals. Currently, I hold a three-year license. My passion lies in serving youth, Transitional Age Youth (TAY), adults, and mature adults, particularly those who are vulnerable and at risk, such as the LGBTQIA+ community and individuals with dual diagnoses.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+8
Hello there, I'm Susie. I'm a bilingual therapist who speaks English and Spanish. I have specialized training in Art Therapy and EMDR. In my work with individuals and groups, I am compassionate, collaborative, culturally sensitive and creative. I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. As humans, we create patterns and behaviors that may no longer be helpful for us when navigating relationships in our life. This can feel stressful, helpless, and anxiety provoking. Having space to acknowledge and talk about what is happening in your life can help relieve the intensity of those feelings and can help create new patterns and behaviors.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Holistic
Open-minded

Specialties

Addiction
Bipolar Disorder
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I bring both professional and personal experience to my work as a therapist. Having a Bipolar 1 diagnosis has given me a unique perspective on the challenges of navigating the institutional and often stigmatized aspects of mental health and the impact on life. This lived experience allows me to approach therapy with empathy, a genuine curiosity and appreciation for each client’s journey, while also emphasizing overall holistic living for optimal wellness of mind and body. Professionally, I’ve worked in psychiatric residential treatment, addiction medicine, youth detention and private practice settings. These experiences have strengthened my ability to support clients through a wide range of concerns from mild to severe forms of mental health challenges and their impact on daily living. I integrate a lot of somatic and sensory-based tools focusing on emotion and nervous system regulation, including brainspotting, drumming, sound therapy, aromatherapy, meditation techniques and other mindfulness tools, along with an emphasis on nature therapy, nutrition in relation to mental health and sleep hygiene. Alongside these approaches, I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to examine and reframe unhelpful thought patterns, strengthen emotion regulation, and collaborate with clients to develop the most applicable coping strategies in those areas. I have extensive experience supporting clients with addictions, complex PTSD/trauma history, ADHD, BPD, bipolar and schizophrenia, among others. "Based on your exceptional client engagement and outstanding care, you’ve officially qualified as a 2026 Grow Therapy Thriver! 🎉 (roughly 600 out of 25,000+ providers) This recognition reflects the meaningful relationships you build with clients from the start and the trust you inspire through your work. Becoming a Thriver places you among a select group of providers who set the tone for excellence across the Grow platform. We’re honored to celebrate this milestone with you."
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Challenging
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
First Responders/Healthcare Workers
+4
I became a social worker to help communities thrive by supporting individuals one by one. Discovering your strength in overcoming life’s challenges can lead to lasting success. Your desire for independence, self-esteem, and self-actualization is real, normal and achievable. Everyone has the potential to live a fulfilling life, and I’m here to guide you in building the foundation for that.
VirtualAvailable
Frequently asked questions

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in California. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.