UnitedHealthcare/Optum Therapists in California

Finding a therapist who accepts UnitedHealthcare/Optum insurance can simplify access to mental health support that fits your budget. With 860 verified therapists in California who accept UnitedHealthcare/Optum insurance, you can filter by therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and interpersonal therapy to address concerns like anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist is currently welcoming new clients and has availability within the next 30 days, ensuring you receive timely, quality care that is covered by your UnitedHealthcare/Optum insurance.

Availability updated: 6/30/2025

Becca Paushter

(she/her)

Becca Paushter, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! My name's Becca. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for helping others. I’m dedicated to creating a strong therapeutic alliance, founded in shared goals for a life worth living. I’ll provide a warm, supportive, safe, and professional space for you to feel comfortable delving into difficult past and present situations, in order to pave a new, happier, and healthier way forward. Making the decision to start therapy can bring up a mix of emotions. You have reached a point where you are ready to take control of your life and create a change for the better. For this, I greatly applaud your courage! While the work may be challenging at times, I am a firm believer that “The only way out is through.” And oh, will it be worth it when you break through. In working together, it is my ambition that you (re)gain a sense of empowerment in your life. If this is what you’re looking for, then let’s get started.

Jill Cordova Holt

Jill Cordova Holt, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
PLEASE NOTE: I am a Gerontological Counselor. I believe in empowering older adults by fostering independence, resilience and sense of identity. Aging is a journey that should be met with dignity, respect, and opportunities for growth. By actively listening, providing tailored support, and encouraging self-determination, I can help older adults maintain their autonomy and confidence. Resilience is nurtured through meaningful connections, purposeful activities, and a focus on strengths rather than limitations. I am committed to honoring an individual's experiences, celebrating their uniqueness, and creating environments where people feel valued and capable. I challenge stereotypes about aging and promote a vision of later life filled with possibility and fulfillment.

Janaelyn Mitchell

(she/her)

Janaelyn Mitchell, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
We all experience life's challenges, feel alone, stuck and unsure what to do sometimes. I understand, it can be scary, seeking professional help for personal issues. I also know, therapy can be deeply healing, when one can open up and take the first step towards mental well-being and self-love! My name is Janaelyn Mitchell, and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist that provides individual therapy and coaching.

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!

Amber Potter

Amber Potter, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
16 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm Amber Potter, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist committed to providing a supportive space for your well-being and growth. With over 15 years of clinical experience, I'm passionate about empowering you to live a meaningful life. Together, in a safe and compassionate environment, we'll collaboratively explore your goals, address challenges, and build upon your strengths. Whether you're navigating relationship difficulties, managing stress, or seeking emotional regulation, I'm here to help you cultivate a life that you love.

Brandon N Burkhardt

(he/him)

Brandon N Burkhardt, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing service to those in need. I have been providing individual therapy since 2012. I am a California native and grew up in the Los Angeles area. I am genuine, patient and experienced with a wide range of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, grief and loss, trauma. My goal in your work with me is to improve your quality life through psychoeducation, identifying healthy coping strategies as well as an emphasis on mindfulness skills to enable you to become more self-aware.

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.

Matthew Tuszynski

Matthew Tuszynski, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California. I received my Masters from Azusa Pacific University and have been practicing for 6 years. I've worked the most with young adults and adolescences having taught high school for the last 11 years as well. I've helped with most issues people of the age range face and help them become the best versions of themselves. I've gone through a small variety of careers myself and stumbled across being a therapist, something I didn't realize I would enjoy as much as I do. Before attending Azusa I went to Franciscan University of Steubenville and The Augustine Institute. Originally set out for a career in TV and radio, life took me on a different path.

Nestor Davila

(he/him)

Nestor Davila, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
1 year of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed clinical social worker that has been practicing for the past 11 years. I have a back grown in advance DBT training and EMDR basic training. Although I consider myself as taking an eclectic approach to treatment I lean on DBT and EMDR in my individual work. I strive to make the time that we meet to be a safe, calm, and free from judgment place.

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).

Meg Rozmanit

Meg Rozmanit, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California with 8 years of experience seeing clients from various backgrounds. I received my Master's from Argosy University in Orange, CA. I help clients recognize their strengths, develop positive thinking patterns, and assist them in moving through life's obstacles. Everyone is an expert in their own life, but sometimes, we all need a little reminder that we can find solutions to existing issues.

Sharon Hill-Anderson

Sharon Hill-Anderson, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I’m Sharon Hill-Anderson, LMFT. I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who takes a person-centered, collaborative approach to working with adults navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where you can begin your journey toward healing and personal growth. I value open, supportive, and non-judgmental conversations. My style is rooted in active listening, ensuring you feel heard and understood. This space is for you—to reflect, explore, and grow at your own pace.

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.

Johanna Crespin

(she/her)

Johanna Crespin, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I’m dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive space where individuals and couples can navigate life's challenges. Whether you're facing trauma, overwhelming stress, or seeking deeper self-discovery, my approach centers on empathy, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to your healing journey. Together, we’ll work to restore balance and help you reconnect with a sense of well-being.

Sarah Davidson-Amici

(she/her)

Sarah Davidson-Amici, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
I come to my practice with life experience and have lived in Europe and know the challenges of making life transitions. I use a laid back approach and focus on meeting the clients where they are to really understand the changes they wish to make. I firmly believe in the therapeutic allegiance and the client therapist working together for the optimum outcome.

Ronena Summers

Ronena Summers, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. I earned my Master's Degree in Psychology Counseling from Mt. ST. Mary's University in Los Angeles and have been practicing for 15 years. I facilitate insight into problematic issues in your life transition towards a life worth living. My approach is empathetic, compassionate, and direct. I help recognize unhealthy patterns of thoughts and behaviors.

Monique Gary

Monique Gary, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

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.

Patricia De La Torre

(she/her)

Patricia De La Torre, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
19 years of experience
Virtual
I am a therapist (LCSW) who is passionate about self-empowerment and personal transformation. I understand the effects of trauma and the healing process. I received an MSW degree from California Sate University Los Angeles (2006). As your mental health therapist, I will work collaboratively with you to identify the areas in your life where you want to heal and create positive changes. Se habla Espanol.

Kristal Bayer

(she/her)

Kristal Bayer, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
Hi I'm Kristal Bayer, I attended the University of California, Santa Barbara for undergrad where I majored in Psychology and minored in education and went on to complete my Masters degree in Social Work at Cal State Long Beach in 2011. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience working in California. I have worked with a wide range of clients in my practice, including Toddlers to the elderly. My therapy style is warm and client-oriented. I walk alongside my clients, helping them learn to cope with life stressors and bring insight into harmful coping mechanisms. To assist clients in developing positive problem-solving skills and positive social interactions to increase self-esteem and develop self-awareness. My approach is tailored to each client upon initial assessment. I applaud you for coming this far and seeking therapy, a decision that sometimes may not be the easiest. I look forward to meeting you and assisting you in your journey.

Cintia Ctibor

Cintia Ctibor, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Sometimes, the most profound connections are formed when someone truly listens.I’m Cintia, here not just to hear, but to deeply understand you. In a world where trauma and anxiety often drown out our inner voices, I know that beneath the spoken words, lies a heart’s true narrative. What a degree in Clinical Psychology and a seven-year journey as a therapist has allowed me to is delve deep into the realms of trauma, anxiety, and depression. While these are my primary focuses, I also bring profound insights into PTSD, intricate family dynamics, relationship challenges, and concerns faced by the LGBTQ community.

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.

Virginia Myricks

Virginia Myricks, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
16 years of experience
Virtual
Hello my name is Virginia Myricks, LMFT and my goal is to encourage, challenge and empower you to uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. I understand that every individual struggles with life challenges in their own unique way and it would be my pleasure to work with you on identifying your goals, offering treatment interventions that are best suited to your individual needs and to assist you in experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

Crystal Cardenas

(she/her)

Crystal Cardenas, LCSW - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hola! I’m a bilingual, Latina Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. All clients have the power to heal, and I provide a judgement free and compassionate space to help you navigate life’s challenges. Together, we’ll explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences to develop coping strategies that support your healing and growth. My goal is to empower you to build a healthy, meaningful life rooted in resilience and self-awareness.

Orin Conant

(he/him)

Orin Conant, LMFT - California Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
15 years of experience
Virtual
I am a seasoned and dedicated therapist, holding a license as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and I am based in California. With 13 years of experience in this field, my practice is driven by a profound commitment to assisting individuals in their journey toward self-discovery and personal growth. My therapeutic approach centers around meeting my clients right where they are in their lives, offering them a safe and non-judgmental space to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I am deeply passionate about nurturing self-understanding, self-compassion, and self-love, guiding individuals to embrace these qualities as they navigate life's challenges. In my practice, I emphasize the importance of moving away from self-criticism and self-blame, recognizing these patterns as hindrances to personal well-being. Instead, I work collaboratively with my clients to foster self-acceptance and self-compassion, empowering them to build healthier relationships with themselves and others. My ultimate goal as a therapist is to help individuals discover their inner strengths, enhance their self-awareness, and develop the tools they need to lead more fulfilling and contented lives. It's a privilege and a passion of mine to assist others on their journey towards greater self-acceptance and emotional well-being.

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 UnitedHealthcare/Optum?

Yes! If you use UnitedHealthcare/Optum you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have UnitedHealthcare/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.