Optum Therapists in Connecticut

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 28 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: 6/30/2025

Chanti DeCarish

(she/her)

Chanti DeCarish, LMFT - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
3 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, my name is Chanti DeCarish, I graduated from Central Connecticut State University with a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. I have worked in mental health for 10 years and as a practicing clinician for the past 3 years. I enjoy working with youth and their families to find common ground and create a more functional and enjoyable family atmosphere. I also enjoy helping couples find new ways of connecting and communicating.

Alexandra Psilos

(she/her)

Alexandra Psilos, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm Alexandra, a licensed professional counselor based in Connecticut with over 10 years of experience. I work with clients across the lifespan, from children to adults, helping them navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and the unique stresses of parenting. My approach is warm, honest, and collaborative, and I use evidence-based techniques like CBT, combined with other tools like DBT and art therapy, to provide a flexible, supportive, and effective therapeutic experience.

Christine Weber

Christine Weber, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
35 years of experience
Virtual
I would like to provide people with the best possible counseling to meet them where they are at. I am person centered and am aware everyone is different and have different needs and goals important to be aware of in the counseling process. I have been in the field for over 30 years working with those with all diagnoses especially anxiety, depression and substance use. I offer strategies to ease the symptoms of these to then be able to work on changing thoughts to then change behaviors. I am motivated to help you to be able to manage your symptoms and become aware that you can control your thoughts and behaviors and improve your quality of life.

Ivelisse Correa

(she/her)

Ivelisse Correa, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LPC
16 years of experience
Virtual
Hello I'm Ivelisse I am a LMHC and Qualified Supervisor for the state of Florida, specializing in child, adolescent and young adult counseling. If you are a parent, care giver or guardian and have a child struggling with recent behaviors in school, home or community settings, you have come to the right profile. I work from the approach of being client-centered and trauma informed care. Adjusting to life changes and anxieties can be challenging and having a safe place to process and navigate the journey of healing and empowerment is essential. Behaviors, family stressors and trauma can affect the family unit. My specialty is working with children, families and young adults between ages 5-25 years old healing from trauma, managing anger, anxiety, depression and more. Together we can develop healthy coping strategies and use a complete self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness and creative expressions to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself, child and/or family. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the challenges and habits that's holding you back. Let's work together! I look forward to hearing from you.

Miranda Curnane

(she/they)

Miranda Curnane, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
I am licensed in Connecticut with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ related issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. Additionally, I hold experience working with children and adolescents with behavioural and mental health concerns. I take a person-centred approach in which I believe that you know yourself best and can make positive changes. My role is to guide you on the way. I also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to assist in challenging unhealthy thought patterns and to promote the regulation of emotions. Seeking out help can be the hardest part of making changes and I am proud of you for taking that step! I look forward to working with you. Additional areas of focus for my practice include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Domestic Violence, Family Problems, Gender Dysphoria, Isolation / Loneliness, Money and Financial Issues, Mood Disorders, Obsessions, Compulsions, and OCD, Panic Disorder and Panic Attacks, Polyamory / Nonmonogamous Relationships, Self-Harm, Sexuality, Social Anxiety and Phobia, Workplace Issues, and Young Adult Issues.

Diego Peralta-Calderon

(he/him)

Diego Peralta-Calderon, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello/Hola, my name is Diego Armando Peralta-Calderon, LPC. As a bilingual (Spanish/English) Licensed Professional Counselor over the past 5 years I’ve cultivated a practice of peace centered guidance for clients. I believe in a mindfulness-based approach embracing the wholeness of the individual. I’m passionate about helping individuals of all walks of life. My approach is mindfulness-based and focuses on cultivating a person-centered environment where all are heard and seen. I draw from strength-based and relational cultural theories to provide an honest space through conversation to empower others. Navigating through life’s obstacles and immersing into your inner self, strengths and build meaningful connections. I provide compassionate support and fostering meaningful connections with my clients. I believe in the power of compassion and collaboration, and I’m here to support you every step of the way on your path to emotional well-being and personal growth.

Karen Lopez

Karen Lopez, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
16 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, My name is Karen Lopez, I have an extensive background in Trauma work and years of experience working with children, adolescents, families, couples, individuals, and seniors at every stage of life. Treating depression, complex trauma, anxiety, grief, depression, adolescent issues, parenting skills, anger management, divorce, ADHD, psychosis, Autism and developmental disabilities. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, have relationship issues, Trauma 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 manage your symptoms and/or habits holding you back. Let's work together!

Kari Marino

Kari Marino, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
27 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in New York City. I received my Masters Degree from New York University over 20 years ago. I have extensive experience in treating adolescents, adults families and couples. I completely enjoy meeting with new clients and working together to help them to work toward meeting their goals which we will plan together.

Mia Becton

(she/her)

Mia Becton, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
33 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have mostly worked with adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, stress and sleep issues. I have 33 years working as a social worker and helping clients. I enjoy this partnership with clients and working together to reach peace, happiness and your goals. My approach to therapy is eclectic which means I use a variety of approaches to help you arrive at your best self. Frequently, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) while combining elements of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness. I also focus on uncovering your strengths as a core foundation to then work on areas preventing you from reaching your goals and achieving happiness. I enjoy assisting others and providing a listening ear. I believe that one has the power to experience happiness despite difficulties and/or unwelcoming circumstances. We can influence our brains and learn skills to handle stress, anxiety, and life challenges. I enjoy sharing knowledge to better assist clients to manage obstacles so that they can ultimately live a happier life.

Melissa Veras Martinez

(she/her)

Melissa Veras Martinez, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there and welcome! As we go through different stages and circumstances in our lives, there are moments when we face difficult challenges and just need a safe space to overcome our barriers. Within my five years of experience, I have helped clients and families develop their unique coping skills for symptoms related to anxiety, depression, anger, behavioral dysregulation, trauma, and stress. Additionally, I have worked in various settings including communities, homes, medical offices, and remote video/telehealth. In my role as a bilingual (English & Spanish-speaking) clinical social worker, I utilize several methods of treatment with a sense of empathy and compassion for the young adults (ages 16-25 y/o), adults, and families I serve. These methods of treatment and approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Family Systems Theory, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). I look forward to working with you and/or your family as a team with a focus on healing, skills building, and reaching your goals.

Diana Hutchinson

(she/her)

Diana Hutchinson, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
32 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am an LCSW and practice in the state of Connecticut. I have my MSW from U-Conn School of Social Work and have been practicing for over 30 years. Throughout the years, I have primarily worked with teenagers and their families in a psychiatric hospital based clinical day school. That includes direct experience with Special Education services, PPT meetings, IEP's (Individual Education Plans) and behavioral challenges within the school setting.

Rebecca Comizio

(she/her)

Rebecca Comizio, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
Meet Rebecca Comizio: an experienced and caring therapist with a passion for helping others. With over 11 years of experience as a school psychologist, licensed professional counselor, and licensed mental health counselor, Rebecca has supported children, teens, and adults on their journeys. Rebecca Comizio provides a warm and compassionate space for children, adolescents and adults seeking therapy. Her deep belief in the resilience of the human spirit empowers her clients to overcome challenges and thrive. Whether you're seeking support for personal growth, stress management, or navigating life transitions, Rebecca's experience and caring approach make her an excellent choice for your counseling needs. Rebecca holds a B.S. in Education from Central Connecticut State University, an M.A. in Philosophy and Education from Teachers College, Columbia University, and an M.A. in School Psychology from Iona University. Currently pursuing her doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology at Nova Southeastern University, she remains committed to learning and growth. As a member and volunteer for the National Association of School Psychologists, Rebecca is dedicated to her profession and community. She is also the co-founder and co-host of the School Psyched Podcast and has co-authored two books, including The Resilience Workbook for Kids (New Harbinger, 2022). Beyond her professional life, Rebecca is a mother of four wonderful adult children and enjoys running and reading extensively in the field of psychology during her free time. Rebecca Comizio provides a warm and compassionate space for adults seeking therapy. Her deep belief in the resilience of the human spirit empowers her clients to overcome challenges and thrive. Whether you're seeking support for personal growth, stress management, or navigating life transitions, Rebecca's experience and caring approach make her an excellent choice for your counseling needs.

Chrystine Longley

(she/her)

Chrystine Longley, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
My journey in helping others meet their mental health goals began at Westfield State College in 2004, graduating summa cum laude with a bachelor in social work. After raising 2 children I returned to what had become Westfield State University and completed my masters degree in one year with the goal of becoming a clinical therapist. Since that time I have worked with clients from 12-90 get the support they need.

Christina Raymond

(she/her)

Christina Raymond, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Counselor based in Connecticut, holding a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Saint Joseph. I have been practicing for 6 years, specializing in helping children, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I am trained to guide you through your challenges to manage stress and help you reach your goals. I am patient, empathetic, and work with you at your own pace, always respecting your unique needs and experiences. I pride myself on my ability to stay professional, maintain confidentiality, and continuously learn to provide the best care possible.

Janet Gueli

(she/her)

Janet Gueli, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm Janet, an LCSW licensed in CT with extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and families. I also have taught elementary education in classrooms from Pre-K to Grade 8 in CT and NY. My passion has always been working with children, adolescents, and families. I also enjoy working with young adults and adults. In the past, I have worked in a domestic violence shelter and outreach center outside of Boston, the CT Birth to Three program, intensive in home psychiatric programs and as a school clinician at a therapeutic high school. Additionally, I have experience working in the foster care systems in CT and NY. Follow my professional instagram @heart_mind_soul_connection Please note- there is a fee for cancellations with less than 24 hours notice and a fee for no show appointments.

Nickisha Newell

(she/her)

Nickisha Newell, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Nickisha. I provide trauma-informed integrative treatment with individualized techniques based on evidence-based practices. I favor an eclectic approach to therapy, recognizing that each person is unique with distinct needs. My experience encompasses working with a diverse range of individuals, families, and groups, offering treatment for mental health, trauma, and substance use disorders. I am dedicated to collaborating on this healing journey and ensuring an empathetic, respectful, and therapeutic environment.

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.

Becky Dawson-Hawley

Becky Dawson-Hawley, LMFT - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
12 years of experience
Virtual
Therapy I feel is a chance to learn and shift patterns in our lives. Relationships are a key part of life but are difficult on many levels and we learn the way that we communicate with other from our experience. Learning and understanding that experience can help us make the changes that we would like to see in life. I believe in having an open space free from judgement were people can explore who they are and learn how to use that to change their lives and their relationships with others. I work with people from all different perspectives and believe that we are the products of our experience and that we can find ways to change the patterns that are not helpful for us. Communication is key in relationships but it is something that we have trouble with but are not always aware of the impact. Learning patterns, identifying the meaning that we put to our experiences and seeing our strengths are ways that allow us to become the person that we want to be without losing who we are.

Charlotte Zocco

Charlotte Zocco, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hey there! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Connecticut. I received my Masters from the University of Hartford and have been practicing for over 5 years. I help children and young adults with their emotions so they can become the best versions of themselves. I have also worked with adults of all ages through different life stages. Through our work together it is my hope that you can become confident and have a large tool box of strategies to help you navigate whatever life experiences you encounter.

Lamont Belle

(he/him)

Lamont Belle, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
21 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Connecticut. I received my Master's from Cambridge College of Massachusetts and have been practicing over 15 years. I help people who struggle with many life problems or mental health disorders become more aware of their issues and assist them with providing healthy clarity.

Cheryl Ellis

(she/her)

Cheryl Ellis, LP - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
32 years of experience
Virtual
I am a clinical psychologist based out of Hartford Connecticut. I have over 30 years of experience working children, adolescents, young adults and adults experiencing depression, trauma, racial, relational, and women issues, anxiety. I have worked in private practice, governmental agencies, and nonprofit organizations which focus on family intervention, substance abuse, and various mental health concerns. As a woman of the BIPOC community I have also focused on issues of diversity, inclusivity and sense of belonging. I strive to assist individuals in their journey to feel whole, working to see the whole person.

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.

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.

Famatta Gibson

(she/her)

Famatta Gibson, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Famatta Gibson, and I work in the mental health field with a deep passion for supporting individuals on their journey toward emotional well-being and personal growth. My background is in social work, and I focus on creating safe, compassionate, and client-centered spaces where people feel heard, understood, and empowered. Whether working through anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions, I strive to provide evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. I’m committed to promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and helping others thrive through holistic and supportive approaches.

Jaron Cotton

(he/him)

Jaron Cotton, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! My name is Jaron Cotton and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 8 years of experience in the field of mental health. While life is a blessing for us all, it can bring incredible challenges filled with stress that can seem impossible at times. My goal in therapy is understand your goals and work together to help you achieve them. True growth comes from challenging ourselves to process, reflect and adapt in a healthy way. Remember that asking for help and showing vulnerability is actually a sign of strength, never a weakness! I am available through telehealth only at this time, but may be accepting in-person clients in the future. Thank you!

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 Child or Adolescent?

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, Child or Adolescent, 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.