Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 858 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: 5/22/2025

Noor Aljawad

(she/her)

Noor Aljawad, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! As a licensed clinical therapist, I provide respectful and compassionate services to help you identify your goals, and support you in coping with challenges along the way to achieving them. I have a social justice orientation that recognizes the impact of oppression, discrimination, and marginalization on mental health. I believe that everyone deserves to be treated fairly and kindly, and that our behaviors serve a function, whether unhealthy or healthy, understood or misunderstood. I work with clients who struggle with various issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, relationship problems, identity, and self-esteem. I use evidence-based approaches that are tailored to your unique needs and preferences. Some of the techniques I use include teaching skills around emotion regulation and distress tolerance, incorporating narrative therapy practices and cultural relational understanding of trauma and healing. My aim is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. I will listen to you with empathy and curiosity, and help you find new ways of understanding and effectively responding to what is coming your way. Together, we will work on developing your strengths, fortifying your resiliency, and further embodying your values in your day-to-day life. If you are interested in working with me, please contact me to schedule a free consultation. I look forward to hearing from you and supporting you on your journey.

Patrick Fernaiz

Patrick Fernaiz, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed professional in California with extensive experience in the mental health industry. With 5 years of dedicated work and an additional 9 years of complementary experience, I have worked in various settings including the criminal justice system, high-acuity psychiatric units, applied behavioral analysis, geriatrics, substance abuse facilities, and PHP/IOP/RTC levels of care. Thank you for considering me as your therapist.

Elizabeth Kelly

(she/her)

Elizabeth Kelly, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am Elizabeth Kelly, a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in working with individual adult clients aged 18 and older. If you are seeking help with working through grief, loss, difficult changes, anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, aging challenges or any other issues that may be hard to overcome alone, I am here to help you through. I follow a client-centered approach, meaning that I believe that you have the internal strength and ability to grow. Together, we will create goals to best serve you. I will listen to your concerns and provide coping skills and resources to help you through your difficult situations.

Thilini Abeygunaratne

(she/her)

Thilini Abeygunaratne, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
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 5 years. I have primarily worked with children in foster care and families post-adoption. I also have some experience working with individuals dealing with addiction. I would like to facilitate art-making during telehealth sessions whenever a client is willing to do so. Please feel free to reach out with any questions and I look forward to speaking with you.

Mohamed Conteh

Mohamed Conteh, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed clinical social worker, and I meet my clients where they are. I use a strength-based eclectic approach and am empathetic to my clients. I work with clients who are dealing with life transitions, depression, anxiety, and stress etc. I use a nonjudgmental approach and work with clients to build rapport. I have over ten years of experience and I have worked with, teens, adults and the elderly, and individuals with developmental disabilities. I provide support to my client in every step of their journey.

Maria Arellano

Maria Arellano, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
I’m Maria Arellano, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I’m bilingual in English/Spanish. I have 10 years of experience helping individuals and families improve their mental health and well-being by developing coping skills to overcome life challenges. I have experience assisting adult individuals presenting issues related to anxiety, depression, grief, substance abuse, anger management, PTSD, and stress due to life transitions. In collaboration with clients, I assist them in setting measurable and achievable goals according to each client’s needs and presenting problem as well as identifying the steps to accomplish the desired outcomes.

Ozzie Lomeli

(he/him)

Ozzie Lomeli, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hi. I'm a licensed clinical social worker and received my Masters from USC. I've provided therapy since 2010. I've spend 14 years working with adolescents but i also having experience working with veterans and people with addiction. I've worked with people that have PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, anger issues, drug and alcohol addictions; I've also facilitated various groups in schools and in psychiatric facilities

Gladis M. Rendon

(she/her)

Gladis M. Rendon, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Gladis, and I am here to support you. Do you feel like you're carrying a heavy burden that's weighing you down? Have you ever had a difficult experience that you never shared with anyone, especially during childhood? Maybe it's been a struggle to cope with mental health issues like addiction, depression, or anxiety, and you think it could be linked to something that happened to you when you were younger?. I specialize in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and my expertise is in treating childhood trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Together, we can navigate various forms of trauma, such as grief, loss, divorce, separation, domestic violence, and emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. By working with me, you can gain a deeper understanding of how these experiences have impacted you, both emotionally and physically. This knowledge can help you regain control over your reactions and behaviors and begin the healing process. I hold an M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy and an M.S. in Clinical Psychology from California Lutheran University. Additionally, I am certified in Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Managing and Adapting Practice, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Positive Parenting Programs.

Scott Crusey

(he/him)

Scott Crusey, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Scott. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California and truly have a passion for helping others to gain wellness. I am originally from sunny San Diego, California. After working in the field in several roles, I made the decision to ultimately be a Marriage and Family Therapist. Since then, I have truly loved every minute of what I do. My personal philosophy is that healing begins with understanding, connection and hope. Unfortunately, at this time, I do not see couples.

Grace Aguilar

(she/her)

Grace Aguilar, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
14 years of experience
Virtual
I am Graciela Aguilar, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. My heritage is rooted in Mexico City, I was raised in Orange County, California. With 14 years of experience, I assist children, adults, and families offering virtual therapy for anxiety, depression, and PTSD. I am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment that helps you challenge the negative core beliefs contributing to dissatisfaction. Believing in the right to joy, together we will uncover the skills and strategies that work best for you.

Meta L. Petty

(she/her)

Meta L. Petty, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
I believe in honoring each individual as the expert of their own life, meeting them without judgment or preconceptions. Counseling, for me, is not about labeling problems but about discovering solutions and effective coping strategies. I work with individuals of all ages, including children, teenagers, adults, couples, and families, who are facing a wide range of challenges, with a particular passion for geriatric mental health. Embarking on therapy is a courageous and potentially life-changing decision, and I am dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. I am deeply committed to helping others realize their full potential. My areas of expertise include providing support for grief, depression, life stressors, divorce, blended families, and individuals and families involved with state agencies.

Julissa Galvan Garza

Julissa Galvan Garza, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am a highly empathetic, positive individual that seeks to assist my clients in finding their worth, self love and myriad of abilities to thrive within life challenges. I enjoyed walking with my clients to find the best version of themselves and who they want to be. I meet my clients where they are and walk with them through awareness and healing process.

Snow Lee

Snow Lee, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! This is Snow Lee, I have over 10+ years working with individuals and providing human service. My background consists of working in different settings such as inpatient, outpatient, and crisis. I have experience and understanding of working with individuals from a diverse background. I start my work by collaborating with my clients working through their current issues and helping them identify its root cause. We work together by becoming aware and conscious of their thoughts, behaviors, & emotions and it its influences and relation to their root issues.

Karen Harvey

Karen Harvey, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi it's nice to meet you, I am a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. I received my Masters from Fuller Theological Seminary and have been practicing for 7 years. I help adults struggling with trauma, anxiety and stresses of life to regain their sense of agency, make sense of the past, and make progress towards their goals for the future.

Karen Bardavid

(she/her)

Karen Bardavid, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Registered Art Therapist based in California. I also have certification in substance use disorders. I practice from a trauma-informed, strengths-based perspective, utilizing integrative techniques which include CBT, mindfulness practices, somatic approaches, psychodynamic, internal family systems and art therapy. I tailor treatment to best suit your needs. I understand how hard it can be to make the decision to work through difficulties. My goal is to help clients develop insight into their thinking and behavioral patterns by exploring the root causes of their anxiety, depression, or trauma and identify the underlying issues contributing to their distress. This process of self-discovery can be challenging, but it is also incredibly empowering.

Jon Dang

(he/him)

Jon Dang, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) who's been practicing for the past 7 years. I primarily work with adults who may be struggling with a variety of issues: anxiety, depression, work stress/career transitions, ADHD/ADD, anger management, and eating disorders. I have a passion for working with adults dealing with issues related to their relationship with food and/or body image concerns - finding myself serving as a co-chair of the Male Eating Disorder Special Interest Group (SIG) for the Academy for Eating Disorders.

Bonnie Mende

(she/her)

Bonnie Mende, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, My name is Bonnie. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California since 2005. I am also licensed as a Registered nurse and have worked in the field for 35 + years. I am a 58-year-old mom of 18 twin daughters in their first year of college. Yep, raising teenagers is no joke! Parenting has its fair share of hills and valleys. I have been married for 23 years. Are you finding that maintaining relationships is a struggle at times? Do you need someone to listen and hear you? I want to build rapport and understanding with each client. I have worked with clients struggling with a variety of issues and concerns. I have experience with clients who have experienced Anxiety, Depression, OCD, family and job stress, domestic violence, complex trauma, PTSD, child custody issues, teen issues, parent-child concerns, grief process, and people experiencing difficulties with substance abuse and use. My therapy is individualized according to what each client wants and needs. My goal is to align with my clients so they will experience being supported in their lives. I use therapy modalities that include: compassion-focused, solution-focused, multicultural, strength-based, Christian, mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, and dialectical therapies. My strengths lie in my ability to put people at ease. I am honest, straight-forward, down to earth, value authenticity, and enjoy getting to know all kinds of people while refraining from judgment. I enjoy music and I sing and play the piano. I enjoy my family, traveling, reading, and my dog Toto, and 2 cats. I look forward to meeting you. Let's talk!

Lisa Hermann Rose

(she/her)

Lisa Hermann Rose, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
29 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed therapist in the state of California with over 25 years of counseling experience. I work primarily with individuals. I have worked with clients with many different struggles including addiction, relational issues, depression, anxiety, sex addiction, empowerment and self-esteem issues. Therapy can be a safe, non-judgmental supportive environment to help you talk through these challenges, find balance, and start feeling like yourself again. Whether you’re going through a tough life transition, struggling in your relationship, feeling unworthy, not good enough or wanting to let go of unhealthy habits, we can take the steps forward together.

Sierra Forest

Sierra Forest, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
9 years of experience
Virtual
Just joined Grow and I'm excited to be here. My goal is to uplift my clients toward being in their best confident purposeful selves. Due to the current market situation, I've reduced my rates for encouragement. You are welcome here. Let’s find your path to inner peace and personal growth. I offer a safe space where you can explore your feelings and thoughts, overcome challenges, and develop your full potential. Whether you're feeling anxiety or going through any of life transitions, I'm here to support you on your journey. Take your first step towards a happier, healthier you by experiencing the transformative power of therapy. With your interest, this is what we are able to do together: "Sierra Forest is a talented and empathic therapist who has the ability to help people change and transform their lives." Bob Shelby, LMFT, John F Kennedy University

Leanne Gip

Leanne Gip, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, I'm Leanne. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!

Kimura Washington

(she/her)

Kimura Washington, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
2 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Kimura (Key-mu-ra), a Southern Californian native and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have had the distinct pleasure of providing client-centered care to individuals in Long Beach, Los Angeles, and surrounding cities and in partnership (case management, care coordination) with Veterans, Caregivers, Geriatric populations, Youth aging out of foster care, and individuals who were homeless. My foundation and blueprint are my faith, worship, and prayer; I provide Christian Counseling, and utilize CBT, Solution Focused, Strength Based, and Positive Psychology methods to support Clients in their personal journey to self-actualization, acceptance, and empowerment.

Millie Montgomery

(she/her)

Millie Montgomery, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am Millie Montgomery, licensed therapist. Are you undergoing life changes where it is getting in the way of your happiness and daily functioning? Let us work together. I have a client-centered, trauma-informed, strength-based therapeutic style. I engage with client who are experiencing different issues or want a safe place to share their feelings and speak their mind. I believe in each individuals inner strength and resiliency to overcome any challenge that may arise in their lives. If you are ready to make changes in your life, reach out. Engaging in therapy is the first step in asking for help. You got this ! I am non-judgemental in manner and respect other's values and morals. I am currently offering virtual therapy at this time. only. Thank you for taking the time and I look forward to hearing from you.

Aaron Rohrer

(he/him)

Aaron Rohrer, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
17 years of experience
Virtual
Are you struggling with issues related to depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, grief, or major life changes? You, like the many clients I've supported over the last 15 years, may be struggling with circumstances outside of your control, feel dissatisfied with the way substances are impacting your life, or are struggling to stay motivated or connected to the version of yourself you would like to be. Using basic principles from common and evidence based practices such as ACT and CBT, combined with client centered and solutions focused approach, I can work with you to help you impact the change you would like to see in your life.

Dr. Shannon Casey

Dr. Shannon Casey, LP - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LP
11 years of experience
Virtual
I specialize in helping individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma achieve the happier and more fulfilling lives they desire. These challenges are often complicated by lack of motivation, trouble experiencing pleasure, self-deprecating thoughts, interpersonal conflicts, and feeling as if you don’t have direction in your life. Some clients know what they want, but they have obstacles that prevent them from moving forward. Other clients are searching for change and want to create meaning in their lives. Wherever you are, I will provide support and compassion as we work towards your goals and aspirations. I do not provide opinions for emotional support animals, disability, or fitness to return to work/other activities for clients who are not well-established at the time of the request. I do not provide couples therapy.

Julia Mudarri

(she/her)

Julia Mudarri, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist serving clients all over California. I have been seeing clients for over 15 years. I help people improve their mental health and relationships with themselves and each other so that they can live their best lives. I am passionate about the work my clients do and fully believe in the ability of therapy. The life you want and the way you want to “be“ in it is possible!

Explore more California Therapists by:

Selected tab: Insurance

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.