Optum Therapists in Connecticut

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 25 verified therapists in Connecticut 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: 7/4/2025

Meg Rose

(she/her)

Meg Rose, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm a licensed clinical social worker based in northeast Pennsylvania with over 25 years experience as a psychotherapist. I received my bachelors degree from Swarthmore College, my masters degree from Columbia University School of Social Work and I completed a post graduate fellowship in psychiatry at the Yale University Psychiatric Institute. Over the years I've worked with clients of all ages struggling with a wide variety of disorders. Primarily, I help adults 18+ who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and alcohol use disorders. I view our work together as a collaborative venture where I help you to identify troublesome thoughts and behaviors and replace them with positive ones. We will accomplish this utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and other forms of therapy as needed.

Shante Ollivierre

Shante Ollivierre, LMFT - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
As a first generation college graduate I am passionate about helping Gen Z and Millennial ambitious women navigate their careers, self care, and relationships. I obtained my Bachelor's of Science Degree in Communication from Southern Connecticut University and Masters of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from University of Saint Joseph. I have many years of experience working with individuals and families in inpatient, outpatient, and school mental health treatment. Over the years, I have honed my skills and expertise to effectively address women's issues and anxiety within the BIPOC communities. I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for women to enhance their mental well-being. I specialize in high functioning anxiety, self care, relationship issues, career difficulties, academic stress, and life transitions.

Michelle Voegtle

Michelle Voegtle, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in SC and CT, certified life coach, ordained minister, and yoga instructor, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), integrative wellness (mind, body, spirit), mindfulness, and solution-focused approaches to support your growth. Each session is tailored to your unique needs and designed to empower you to move forward with resilience and confidence. Let’s work together to help you feel more like yourself and create a life you’re excited to live.

Rayon Lennon

Rayon Lennon, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Born in Jamaica and raised in New Haven county, Connecticut, Rayon, LCSW, brings a wealth of knowledge, passion and clinical experience to Grow Therapy. A Licensed Clinical Therapist for several years, he has experience utilizing a wide range of therapeutic interventions to help individuals, families and couples. He is skilled in helping clients to address behavioral, mental health and substance use challenges. Rayon has helped clients to manage/overcome depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, bipolar, PTSD, etc. Rayon is also certified to treat teens for substance use disorders. He has collaborated with schools, probation officers, DCF workers, and other providers, to help clients. Rayon believes in strengthening the family system in order to enchance the life of an individual. He prides himself on being empathetic, humorous and nice.

Tarrance Barbee

Tarrance Barbee, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
I am an Licensed Clinical Social Worker in NY, CT, and NJ. I have worked with clients to help them overcome stress, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ identity, and depression. I enjoy working with individuals who want to work on healing to become a better self and accomplish their goals. I specifically love working with men who identify as gay and/or bisexual having increased stress and need talk therapy.

Brad Barninger

Brad Barninger, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a licensed Professional Counselor in the states of Pennsylvania and Connecticut. I specialize in working with Couple's, Grief and Loss, Men's issues, and Young professionals. I enjoy lowering the stigma of therapy, it doesn't have to be intimidating. Together we work on the presenting issues, in a collaborative and supportive approach.

Michael Shilleh

Michael Shilleh, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am a compassionate provider that uses my empathy and ability to connect with clients to provide hope and meaning in their lives. I utilize many different techniques and interventions to shed light on areas that may need some. I appreciate the client's perspective while offering reflections that may provide an unrecognized point of view. I always allow space for the client to share their thoughts feelings and emotions in a safe format.

Demetria Agharese

(she/her)

Demetria Agharese, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I’m Demetria Agharese, a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about supporting individuals on their path to healing, empowerment, and mental well-being. The desire to help others has always been at the core of who I am. My practice is built on the foundation of empathy and compassionate care, and I strive to create a therapeutic space where you can feel safe, supported, and understood.

Grace Harrington

Grace Harrington, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
17 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I'm Grace~a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Connecticut! I would like you to take a moment to acknowledge you've taken the first step towards bettering your mental health because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or both, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and/or self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life. Counseling can foster personal development in whatever way you may be seeking and help build the life you so deeply deserve. If that's what you're looking for, I'm here when you're ready! I have received my Masters from Southern Connecticut State University and have been practicing for 17 years. I help adults struggling with various stressors to help them become the best version of themselves. My goal is to utilize my skills to help individuals seek treatment and live happier, healthier, and longer lives!

Damon Neely

Damon Neely, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Life is tough. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or out of rhythm by the complexity and challenges life may present; I can and will help you. My name is Damon Neely. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and U.S Marine Corps veteran with 18 years’ of health care experience. I specialize in working with both young-adult and middle-aged men experiencing anxiety and/or depressive symptoms. If you are struggling with any of the following issues: mid-life anxiety, perfectionism, unrealistic expectations, feelings of failure, low self-worth, self-acceptance, upcoming lifestyle decisions, relational issues with spouse/partner/family, social skills, anger management, emotional regulation, fatherhood, as well as meaning/purpose; I believe I can provide you the space to explore these issues and help you find a pathway towards resolution. Languages that I speak include English. In my free time, I enjoy exercising, sports, reading, and watching epic movies or tv shows. What brings me the most fulfillment these days is being a father to my three beautiful daughters and husband to my incredible wife. I want to hear your story and gain insight into who you are, what you believe, and what you value. I genuinely believe that you have the power to re-author your story if it got off-track. You have the ability to reinvent yourself and engage in your own existential makeover. I will be your guide on your quest to make changes and I walk next to you as you take on whatever challenges you must face. Answer the call. Let’s take the next step on your hero’s journey.

Alexandra Dash

(she/her)

Alexandra Dash, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! My name is Alexandra, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Columbia University. I have over 7 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and children in a variety of settings; with specialized experience working with Veterans and those currently serving in the military, including active duty, Guard and Reserve components; as well as survivors of domestic violence. I currently offer individual therapy, focused on helping clients navigate feelings of anxiety, depression or overwhelm, life transitions or other ongoing stressors, as well as working through traumatic experiences. I have a particular focus on helping people cope with the emotional and psychological effects of difficult or traumatic events. I am committed to providing compassionate and effective therapy, in a safe, supportive, and nonjudgemental space. My goal is to support my clients in developing greater self-understanding and growth, supporting change, and fostering healing. If you are struggling with the effects of stress, depressed mood, anxiety, or trauma, or just want to be able to talk to someone in a supportive and nonjudgmental space - I encourage you to reach out for help, you do not have to face these challenges alone. Life is often full of an incredible mix of significant positives and profound challenges, often these challenges are filled with anxiety, overwhelm, or distress, that can at times, feel impossible to navigate. My goal is to help and support you, while you learn to navigate these challenges and work toward healing, happiness, and growth. Please remember, as you are taking this step to connect with a therapist, while it may not have been the easiest of decisions, the decision to seek help is a sign of profound strength, never one of weakness. You deserve to feel happy and well.

Yomaris Ramos Rivera

(she/her)

Yomaris Ramos Rivera, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
11 years of experience
Virtual
As a licensed professional counselor, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective mental health services to diverse populations. Being bilingual in English and Spanish allows me to connect with a broader range of clients, ensuring that language barriers do not hinder access to quality care. My bilingualism enhances my ability to communicate more effectively with clients from varied cultural backgrounds, fostering an environment of trust and understanding. I am committed to creating a safe space where clients feel heard, validated, and empowered to work through their challenges. Through my experience and training, I have developed a keen understanding of the cultural nuances that influence mental health and well-being in bilingual communities. I strive to integrate culturally competent practices into my counseling approach, recognizing the unique experiences of each client. In my practice, I aim to promote mental health awareness and provide supportive interventions that resonate with the linguistic and cultural identities of my clients. I look forward to continuing my work in this capacity and making a positive impact within the communities I serve. ***ATTENTION: If you do not show up for your intake session your case will be closed. There are 3 documents attached to your file that needs to be filled out before your first session. There is a cancelation fee policy if you do not contact and let me know 24 previous to your appointment. If your health insurance is Husky or Medicaid and you incur two no shows your case will be closed. You need to be pending on emails because this is my way to contact my clients, especially Sundays when I revised the schedule and make adjustments on timing.

Dr. Vanessa Laurent

Dr. Vanessa Laurent, LP - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed psychologist with an interest in helping people live the life they want. I will help you gain self-awareness and understanding to help you be better able to manage and control your emotions, and by extension, your life. I have provided therapeutic services for over 10 years. I employ a multimodal approach to therapy, but would primarily characterize me as a cognitive behavioral therapist, with specific training in family intervention, behavioral modification, and trauma-informed care. I have also received training in a variety of other treatment modalities and believe in providing high quality evidence-based treatment. I am a strong believer that our well-being is affected by biological, psychological, and social factors. I utilize a biopsychosocial approach that highlights the interdependent nature of the body, mind, and social factors and how they might be contributing to the development or continuation of our problems. Whether you are dealing with depression, family issues, or anxiety, I can help support you in living the life you want. Starting therapy can be a difficult and courageous decision, you have taken the first steps just by being here. I look forward to working with you!

Kathleen M. Walsh

(she/her)

Kathleen M. Walsh, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
24 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, friends call me Kate. I have been Board Certified for 22 years and bring a variety of work experiences to the table. I currently work 2 days a week at a hospital in Outpatient Behavioral Health. Are you going through a rough patch in your life? Sometimes when life gets tough, it helps to share that burden with someone else. Is it hard for you to balance work life and home life? Let’s work together so that we can create a way to better handle the stress that life presents. If you need tools to better cope with anxiety and depression, we can work on that. I’ve had lots of experience with parent coaching and enjoy helping families live a more positive life.

LaSonja Carter

LaSonja Carter, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
I have extensive experience in serving adults, adolescents, children, and families by providing mental health counseling, domestic violence prevention, substance use prevention, addiction recovery, career counseling, family support, career coaching and education. I enjoy live theater productions, watching classic movies, reading biographies, listening to music, traveling, and spending time with family. I will look forward to working with you soon.

Janet Guthrie

(she/her)

Janet Guthrie, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings! Are you feeling overwhelmed by day- to day issues? Are you struggling in your relationships, or having difficulties communicating with others? Do you just need a safe space to vent? These are all normal daily occurrences. This may be where you'll begin in therapy. However, the goal is to increase coping skills and decrease adverse symptoms as time progresses. My goal is to connect with you and truly understand your needs and goals. Expect an environment free of judgment where you can speak freely and show up as your authentic self. My approach is person-centered while utilizing appropriate evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I help support young adults, individuals, and couples that may be dealing with a range of challenges in their lives related to trauma, anxiety, and depression. Let's work together to identify solutions that can improve functioning and increase life satisfaction.

Briana Dovi

(she/her)

Briana Dovi, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
Making that first call to a therapist takes real courage, but the rewards can be profound. I would be honored to be the one to support you in meeting your goals. I have a passion for working with adults 18+ who are struggling with depression, anxiety, panic, relationship issues, women's health, grief, trauma, self-esteem, life transitions and many other struggles. With 10+ years of counseling/social work experience, I know we can work together to build you up and support you in learning techniques to make life a little more manageable. My goal is to help you feel more in control of your lives by cultivating self-awareness, processing emotions, problem-solving, and replacing unsupportive coping skills with healthier strategies. Together we explore and identify the underlying thoughts and emotions that drive these behaviors while working at your pace.

Maxine L. Kibble

(she/her)

Maxine L. Kibble, LMFT - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
22 years of experience
Virtual
Maxine L. Kibble LMFT, MA, PsyD Candidate intake+Maxine21932@growtherapy.com I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, Connecticut, and Utah. I have a Bachelor of Science in Education and Dance Therapy from New York University. I have two master's degrees: one in marriage and family counseling from the University of Phoenix and a second master's in clinical psychology from Alliant International University, California School of Professional Psychology. I am enrolled in the PsyD doctoral program at California Southern University and am scheduled to graduate on 05/2024. I have 20 years of experience as an educator, counselor, career counseling and researcher in psychology. As a licensed MFT therapist, my expertise is in the areas of substance abuse, prison populations, AB109s (felons)/290s (sex offenders), anger management, domestic violence, career counseling, and parenting supervision. In addition to individual, couples, and family counseling, I have experience with specific populations, such as transgender and LGBQ, with a particular cultural emphasis on identity formation. I have worked closely with psychiatrists regarding members who require medication management and assessments, diagnosing and creating for those individuals, couples, and families treatment plans counseling services. My clientele ranges from 6 to 75 years of age, and my therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused, Narrative therapy, and Supportive therapy. My foundation and belief system is based on being culturally sensitive when working with all clients to understand how they see their presenting problem within the context of their culture.

Porsche Collins

(she/her)

Porsche Collins, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in the state of NC, SC, GA, CT, MA and IN. I am the sole therapist of Empathic Hues Counseling and Consultation, PLLC. My practice was created to help adults dealing with depression, anxiety and needing guidance with adjusting to to a change in quality of life. I hope to help individuals find peace needed to have more control over their lives and confidently overcome challenges. My goal is to help you understand “you” as well as focus on developing your internal and external strengths.

Ashley Caceres

Ashley Caceres, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who is licensed in Connecticut with 7 years of professional work experience and 3 years in private practice. I love what I do...working with and for each person! I have collaborated with a variety of clients with various needs. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, & coping with life changes. I am available to aid clients in improving concentration, memory and focus (ADHD). Above all, I aim to see you for who you are...your strengths, interests, and personal gifts to help you navigate life. Your struggle is real and so are all the other qualities & goals that make you. Let's explore this together!

Keisha Cox

Keisha Cox, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
I am an LCSW with a private practice in NY and CT. I have earned a BA in Psychology and an MSW in Clinical Social Work, both from New York University. I have over 20 years of experience working with children and adults of all ages with a focus on cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, strength based and mindfulness approaches.

Patricia Jenkins-Simmons

(she/her)

Patricia Jenkins-Simmons, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
18 years of experience
Virtual
Getting help for me started at an early age - seeking help in my mid-teens Little did I know I was beginning my journey to assist others in rescuing themself from life's ticks. As a licensed clinical social worker with 15 years of experience, I want to help change the view, break the stress tension, tame depression, and overthrow anxiety. ​My specialty is stress management, trauma focus therapy, I apply an eclectic mix of solution focus therapy, EMDR, CBT and Trauma focus solutions coupled essential oils. Let's start the journey together.

Kendra Toodle-Register

(she/her)

Kendra Toodle-Register, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am an LCSW in the state of CT and LISW in the state of OH. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field working with adults in healthcare settings. For the past 6 years I have been developing my professional counseling skills to meet the needs of my clients. I specialize in person centered approaches rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques which include, mindfulness and strength-based methods. These approaches will allow us to create a safe space to explore your emotions by building a trusting client-therapist partnership and equip you with the tools you need to live healthier and happier lives.

Terese Fagan

(she/her)

Terese Fagan, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed therapist in Connecticut with over 10 years of clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I take a person centered approach with each client's needs. Utilizing solution focused interventions, as well as other evidence based practices. Let us make progress together.

Carla Franco

(she/her)

Carla Franco, LMFT - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
25 years of experience
Virtual
Are you a high achiever but frequently feel you're "faking" your way to success? Do you find yourself stuck in a situation you haven’t figured out how to change? Do you have unhealthy negative thought patterns and bad habits? Let me help you let go of old messages that tell you that you're not good enough or that you'd be better if your relationship, weight, career, or circumstances were different. The key to overcoming life's numerous obstacles is showing up and being present for yourself. I'll assist you in developing and utilizing your inner abilities so that you can lead a happy, fulfilled life. I strongly desire to provide each person with the tools to identify their assets, develop fresh perspectives, and adopt constructive behavioral habits. I believe psychotherapy should be approachable, accessible, and results-driven. My goal is to empower individuals, couples, and families to define and claim the lives they were meant to live. This means starting by getting clear about hopes and dreams. I take a collaborative and holistic (mind/body/spirit) approach, meeting you where you are. Let's broaden your support network and level up to view and interact with your situation in new ways with expanded support and energy.

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Connecticut rather than a city like Hartford?

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 Connecticut from New Haven to Springfield! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Connecticut.

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 Career Counseling?

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. For example, your selected specialty, Career Counseling, is filtering therapists in Connecticut that work with patients with similar concerns.

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.