Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 848 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: 7/2/2025

Gloria Ramirez

(she/her)

Gloria Ramirez, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
1 year of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Santa Paula, California. I have been in the mental health field for over 15 years and my passion has led me to earn my degree in mental health counseling. I currently offer therapy in person and through telehealth. I am bilingual in Spanish, and enjoy working with others to help them achieve their best self.

Jamie Schmidt

(she/her)

Jamie Schmidt, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I know life can be exhausting at times, and I find it to be invaluable to have a space to openly process our challenges and stressors. I have worked with individuals from various backgrounds and experiences including people moving through trauma, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety. My practice focuses on supporting individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression by providing a safe space to explore healthy ways to manage these symptoms and utilize the strengths and resources you have available to promote a better quality of life.

Jeri Wilson

(she/her)

Jeri Wilson, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Jeri. Do you feel like you have always been the responsible one who gets things done but lately are starting to feel resentful or just plain exhausted? Are you dealing with emotionally immature family members/co-workers/friends? Do you find it difficult to put yourself first? I help high-functioning individuals manage their relationships, emotions, and stress in their lives. We will work together to understand the root of your struggles, help you explore your options and become a better communicator so you can meet your own needs. You just need to show up for your appointments, be interested in your growth and do any homework assignments that are assigned to you (they are easy, don't worry).

Farah Jadhavji

(she/her)

Farah Jadhavji, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) specializing in anxiety disorders, including OCD, PTSD, phobias, and social anxiety. With a client-centered approach and a family systems background, I love to work with adults, couples, and families to overcome challenges, improve relationships, and foster lasting change. My goal is to provide compassionate, effective therapy tailored to each person’s unique needs.

Stephen Del Grosso

(he/him)

Stephen Del Grosso, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Feeling down, unmotivated or flat? Are you disengaging in previously pleasurable activities leaving you feeling unmotivated and anxious? Through a collaborative partnership, I can help you lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life, helping to reduce anxiety and boost problem solving all from the comfort of your living room! I utilize a client centered, solution focused approach, through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing interventions to help reduce anxiety and depression and promote wellbeing. I have had success working with crisis intervention and trauma informed care to help a variety of clients’ ranging from minor disturbances to significant impairment. Through my eclectic approach, I can treat a wide range of client needs. My experience stems from working with individuals, young adults and couples who struggle to overcome anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment disorders and substance use disorders. Whatever the issue, I can be of service to offer an empathetic, patient centered level of care that will meet your needs. Please call or email for a free 15 min phone consultation to see how I can best support your needs. All sessions are conducted via telehealth, through a safe and secure platform. Don’t settle for your new normal, contact me to help you make changes today!

Arakel Aristakessian

(he/him)

Arakel Aristakessian, LPCC - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
6 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Arakel Aristakessian and I am a first generation American of Armenian immigrants. There is never a lack of drama in my family and I think it is important to be mindful of cultural expectations and norms when navigating conflict. In this fashion, I use an individualized approach to meet my clients' needs. My style of therapy is grounded in the person-centered approach. I practice listening with empathy to my client’s lived experiences. I remind myself that it is not my place to judge anyone for their past choices. It is my responsibility to respond honestly and respectfully. My hope is to mediate shame, so that people feel comfortable and safe in opening up about what is troubling them. Once the therapeutic space feels safe, only then can various treatment methods truly be effective.

Jennifer Roberts

(she/her)

Jennifer Roberts, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
30 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist helping my clients find more congruency and peace in their lives. People often believe that their feelings of anxiety and depression are their individual problem or failure, but very often these feelings are just a normal response to a challenging world. They come to their first session worried that they are crazy or deficient in some way, but they’re not. You don’t have to feel this way. I can help you develop understandings about how you are responding to your world, how you are making meaning of your life and how those meanings might be causing you to feel anxious, sad, hopeless, and frustrated. I have decades of experience helping people create lives that feel safe, meaningful, and more joyfully aligned with who they are and what they want.

Jania Sommers

(she/her)

Jania Sommers, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
32 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome to my practice. I am a seasoned therapist and have worked in many different settings over many years. All I ever wanted to do is help people have their best lives. I practiced social work with a Bachelors degree in prisons, community agencies for the disabled, a state hospital, a state facility for people with cognitive challenges, child and family welfare work and working with folks in community care homes. I also developed and led a community program for Guardians ad Litem in child abuse and neglect cases. Then I went back to school and earned my Masters in Social Work and then my therapy credentials after many hours of supervision. I truly enjoy listening and encouraging clients to embrace strategies for wellness and self-compassion using mindfulness and compassion and strength based materials. I am actively engaged in consult groups with other therapists focusing on trans and queer issues. For several years I taught at the graduate school level in South Carolina and then Utah, teaching social work students skills for working ethically and compassionately.

Justin Kram

(he/him)

Justin Kram, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
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.

Christopher Blackwell

(he/him)

Christopher Blackwell, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
1 year of experience
Virtual
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience supporting individuals navigating depression, anxiety, and life’s everyday challenges. I take a compassionate, client-centered approach and primarily use Mindfulness-Based Therapy to help you build awareness, reduce stress, and develop healthier coping skills. In our work together, you can expect a safe, supportive space where you’ll learn to manage difficult thoughts and emotions, stay grounded in the present moment, and reconnect with what matters most to you. Whether you're seeking relief from overwhelming feelings or looking to strengthen your emotional resilience, I'm here to walk alongside you on that journey.

Robert Nwanganga

Robert Nwanganga, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
Thank you for sharing information about yourself. I'm so happy that you reached out for help. I am Robert Nwanganga, a licensed therapist. I have been a Social Worker since 2003. I also need to let you know that I am more interested in finding out why a certain behavior is occurring than I am in demonizing you for exhibiting the behavior. I have worked with a diverse populations and I have learned that therapy has to be personal if it is to be effective. I am committed to working with you in finding what modality works with your personality and focus on your strength in dealing with the situation that brought you to us.

Giovanna Fattorini-Ocampo

Giovanna Fattorini-Ocampo, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I’m Giovanna. Whether you have been struggling with mental health problems most of your life or are experiencing some personal hardships and are looking for help, you have come to the right place. Be proud of yourself for reaching out for support. The journey might not be easy but the goal is to help you have a life that you find meaningful and fulfilling. I have experience working with adolescents, transitional age youth, adults and older adults dealing with mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, trauma, personality disorders, developmental disorders, and substance use as well as with those going through life transitions and struggling finding their way.

Michael Chavez

(he/him)

Michael Chavez, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
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.

Erika Jackson

Erika Jackson, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
9 years of experience
Virtual
As a dedicated Licensed Trauma-Focused Clinician, I am committed to creating a safe and supportive space where individuals and couples can explore emotions, process difficult feelings, and discover their underlying strengths to manage life stressors. My work in guiding people towards improving their lives is my passion. My therapeutic approach is very authentic, warm, with a touch of humor, ensuring that you feel comfortable and understood throughout our journey together. Many of my therapeutic techniques are backed by scientifically proven mental health theories or statistical research, and I am continuously learning new modalities through ongoing trainings. Imagine a therapy session that is not only effective but also feels like a genuine conversation with a trusted friend. My approach is direct, open-minded, and solution-focused, tailored to meet your unique needs as you reflect on your life. I believe in the power of concise communication, making each session impactful and focused on your progress. I am passionate about empowering my clients to face life’s challenges by tapping into their natural capabilities. In my practice, you'll find a non-judgmental and welcoming environment, where your concerns are met with compassion and understanding. My goal is to provide a safe and judgment-free space for you to explore life's unique challenges we all face. I'll walk alongside you to guide and assist in managing life stressors impacting your journey. With my support, we will develop solutions, coping skills, and an understanding of emotions to improve your quality of life. It is essential to me you leave each session with more insight, self-awareness, and self-acceptance than before. I am experienced in working with individuals, couples, children of all ages, diversity of ethnicities, genders, and different cultural frameworks, which I embrace with warm understanding and appreciation. Let's devote time to your personal growth and healing together.

Kamron Poosti

(he/him)

Kamron Poosti, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I’m Kamron Poosti, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Los Angeles. I specialize in addressing issues like anxiety, depression, dating, communication, relationships, burnout, and work-related stress. My client-centered approach offers tailored support to help you navigate your unique challenges and develop effective coping strategies. I’m dedicated to helping individuals from all walks of life achieve greater mental well-being and lead more fulfilling lives.

Idania arellano

(she/her)

Idania arellano, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, my name is Idania Arellano, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I received a master's degree in Marital and Family Therapy from Loma Linda University in 2019. I have worked in human services for since 2010 in various capacities including drug and alcohol and case management in group homes. I enjoy working as a therapist and feel privileged to help others work on themselves.

Caitlinn Concepcion

(She/Her)

Caitlinn Concepcion, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Caitlinn Concepcion and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California working towards my Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy (DMFT) degree (ABD). I am a compassionate therapist dedicated to empowering individuals on their journeys of self-discovery and healing. I create a safe, nurturing space for clients to explore their inner worlds, build resilience, and embrace personal growth. My therapeutic approach blends introspection with practical strategies, helping clients uncover insights, address challenges, and cultivate a deeper connection to their authentic selves.

Sydney Shaevel

(she/her)

Sydney Shaevel, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
4 years of experience
Virtual
The therapeutic relationship is one that I hold close to my heart, as it is a piece of the puzzle that allowed me to flourish into my true self. I know firsthand what it is like to struggle and feel as though the obstacles ahead appear to be near impossible, whether big or small. While in the moment they may seem insurmountable, truly these experiences become the seeds of transformation and the foundation for stepping into our greatest possibilities in life. I invite you to explore your struggles collaboratively in a non-judgmental and safe space to cultivate greater self-acceptance, empowerment, and strength as you reclaim your inner knowing. I’m looking forward to supporting you as you step into new possibilities in this healing and transformative journey.

Emilie Crist

(she/her)

Emilie Crist, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
4 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Emilie Crist and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I graduated from Fresno State with a Bachelor of Science in Special Studies Pre-Public Health and attained my Master’s of Art in Marriage and Family Therapy from Touro University Worldwide. I have worked in community health and private practice and have a broad range of knowledge and experience that I am able to apply to my work as a clinician. I look forward to helping you on your healing journey to find deeper meaning and a better understanding of yourself to reach your full potential.

Charmayne Bowens

(she/her)

Charmayne Bowens, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
As a dedicated therapist, my name is Charmayne, and I specialize in providing compassionate support to women aged 18 and above who are navigating the complexities of anxiety, grief, and trauma. I believe in creating a safe and nurturing space where individuals can explore their emotions, heal from past experiences, and develop coping strategies to lead fulfilling lives. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges women face, I am committed to empowering my clients on their journey towards mental well-being and self-discovery. Together, we can cultivate resilience and foster growth in the face of adversity. I invite you to take the courageous step towards healing and reach out to embark on this transformative journey with me.

Claudia Melo

(she/her)

Claudia Melo, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
18 years of experience
Virtual
I am a bilingual Latinx therapist with over 18 years of experience, offering culturally grounded mental health support through my private practice, Luna Nueva Holistic Therapy. My approach integrates evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, and interpersonal therapy with holistic healing and ancestral practices to support mind-body-spirit wellness. I specialize in working with BIPOC and first-generation individuals navigating life transitions, grief, cultural identity, and generational trauma, offering a compassionate and affirming space for healing, self-discovery, and radical self-love.

Adrienne Yam

Adrienne Yam, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
1 year of experience
Virtual
As a therapist, I am committed to helping you have healthier, more balanced, harmonious lives and relationships. My therapy approach includes traditional and holistic healing techniques that involve mind, body, heart and spirit as well as things unseen. My years of experience in community mental health include individual, child, couples, co-parenting and family therapy. I am able to relate well to many different cultural, ethnic, socio-economic groups. With an M.A. in transpersonal psychology and an M.B.A. from University of Chicago plus 25 years of corporate experience, I use a broad range of skills to help my clients explore their needs and goals. As a certified yoga and meditation teacher, many of my clients have learned mindfulness techniques that enhance their recovery. All of us need confidential support for different things at times. My job is to compassionately support you in what you need, with your values, to have the life that you want.

Gina M. Delligatta

Gina M. Delligatta, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hello. I am a psychotherapist who values not only the creative attributes of the mind but also the wisdom of the body and soul. My presence-oriented, client-centered approach, helps me connect in a way that empowers the change and growth you desire. I offer practical tools and guidance that support you to achieve wellness and balance. My areas of specialty include trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, relationships, cross-cultural, and creativity. I am well-versed in teaching coping skills, self-regulation, and mindfulness practices. Somatic, psychodynamic, depth, art, energy psychology, guided imagery, and CBT are some of the therapeutic modalities I apply. I also have extensive experience working with energy therapies and the active imagination. Because I care deeply about supporting my clients through times of need, the relational guidance and support I maintain helps clients achieve their goals and overcome challenges. I especially connect with those who are struggling to find their way through life transitions and the difficulties encountered along the way. My own life experience informs and gives insight into these struggles, and my open, authentic, and non-judgmental personality helps clients to feel safe and at ease. Building trust and openness is key to my work, and I value each and everyone’s unique story and journey. I also have a background in the creative and professional arts and this experience gives me a unique insight into supporting those who are creatives. Additionally, I have an insider's perspective on cross-cultural issues and understand some of the challenges one meets when living in a country different from where they were born. Currently, I am a PhD candidate in East-West psychology with a focus on imaginal practices and their transformative potential.

Thilini Abeygunaratne

(she/her)

Thilini Abeygunaratne, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Artist based in Southern California. I studied art therapy at Loyola Marymount University and have been a practicing therapist for almost 7 years. I would like to facilitate art-making during telehealth sessions whenever a client is willing to do so. I am excited and hopeful to get to be a part of your journey

Cami Allard

Cami Allard, LP - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LP
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I’m Dr. Cami, a psychologist providing telehealth services to adults in California. I am a native of the Central Valley in California and come from a diverse cultural community. I currently reside in the beautiful country of Norway and enjoy downhill skiing, hiking, gardening, traveling, and learning new languages. As a psychologist, I am passionate about helping individuals develop helpful strategies to effectively navigate their path and the roadblocks that may arise on their journey in life. Upon feeling effective, it is a beautiful experience to walk with the individual as they re-story past hurts, emotions, and experiences into a story of empowerment and growth. As a therapist, this is the gift of therapy: a transactional experience of growth in the therapeutic relationship in which both I, and the client walk along the path of reclaiming self-compassion and identity. In my work, I use warmth, humor, and a nonjudgmental approach to develop a strong alliance with my clients, grounded in authenticity and acceptance. I view therapy as a collaborative experience in which I encourage clients to approach challenges with curiosity and self-compassion. My clients have described me as open to learning and understanding their cultural values and beliefs, warm, easy to talk to, empathic and humorous in session. If I were to use one sentence, to sum up my view of a healthy therapeutic treatment experience, it would be: Therapy, in its purity, is a place where an individual is validated, supported, and empowered to thrive on their path in life.

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.