Optum Therapists in Connecticut

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 105 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.

Samantha Vamosy

(she/her)

Samantha Vamosy , LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Samantha Vamosy and I am so happy you are interested in working together. I know starting a therapy process whether you have before or this is your first time can be scary and uncomfortable. I hope we can work through this time together making this journey as helpful and special as possible. My passions have always aligned with helping others and listening in a compassionate, non-judgmental, and curious way. I find real change occurs when a person can fully explore their life in a holistic way. Whether it is current mental health symptoms or past traumas holistic healing is possible for everyone. I received my Master's in Mental Health Counseling at Fairfield University and achieved my LPC after completing 3000 hours in an outpatient clinic for substance abuse. I value a person-centered approach that focuses on strength-based and solution-focused techniques. I also incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy to be able to challenge unhealthy patterns that no longer serve you. Together we will identify goals, by exploring what is and is not working and be able to collaboratively come up with solutions and learning tools to better overcome barriers to success. We will work at your pace and readjust goals and steps as we go along. Through these techniques we will work together to identify maladaptive thoughts that contribute to avoidance behaviors and fears that keep us stuck, feeling even more anxious and often depressed. Overcoming life transitions, challenges, and uncertainty can be difficult and no one should have to face these decisions on their own!

Briana Dovi

(she/her)

Briana Dovi, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
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.

Phillip Rice

(he/they)

Phillip Rice, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working in Connecticut for the past 5 years. I work with my clients to help identify the cause of issues they may be experiencing, and help guide them through the process of addressing those issues. The most important aspect of therapy is that it is client-led. Everyone's needs and desires are different, and working out what a person is looking to gain from their therapy is the foundation for change. Once we have established that together, the path ahead can look different for each person. Some benefit from highly structured sessions centered around teaching tangible skills, others benefit from more loosely organized talk therapy. Either way, it is important to establish a treatment plan with goals early on, and work together to reach them.

Christopher Raposo

(he/him)

Christopher Raposo, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Christopher Raposo. I’m a trained and licensed clinical social worker. My work experience has been in acute psychiatric hospitalization, outpatient substance abuse, and community behavioral health clinics. I’ve worked with a clientele suffering from a vast array of disorders, backgrounds, and life stressors. The work we do as a team mostly consists of psychoeducation, therapy, and a therapeutic alliance defined by treatment goals and objectives.

Yaasmiyn Marcelle

(she/her)

Yaasmiyn Marcelle, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LPC
2 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings my name is Yaasmiyn Marcelle. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Connecticut and South Carolina. I received my Master's from Post University. I have worked in social services since 2009. I believe the working with all populations is my life's work as my dream is for all those who want to live a positive life are able to do so.

Paul Basenfelder

Paul Basenfelder, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
I work with adult clients 18 and up, and I have a special interest in promoting healthy relationships with both individuals and couples, as research shows that having close and loving relationships is the most significant contributing factor to happiness over the life span. I have experience and proficiency in treating mood disorders, career issues, self-esteem problems, ruptured attachments, grief, etc.

Abigail Payne

(she/her)

Abigail Payne, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! I'm Abbey. Do you feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders? Maybe it feels like everything falls on you, or you need to have everything figured out. Or maybe you have no idea what you want, but you just know something is missing. That pressure alone can feel debilitating. If you're overwhelmed with responsibility, at a crossroads in your life, or you feel ready for a change (even if you don't know what that is), then I'm here to tell you that you're exactly where you're supposed to be. I’m passionate about helping women and highly sensitive individuals overcome anxiety to show up as their most confident and authentic selves. Whether you're struggling with relationship challenges, low self-worth, or processing trauma, I'm committed to supporting my clients on their journey to health, healing and happiness. My goal as a therapist is to make my clients feel seen, heard and understood so they can connect more deeply to their truth, find peace, and create the life they want.

JC Caro

(she/her)

JC Caro, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LPC
25 years of experience
Virtual
You may be nervous about participating in therapy due to worries of feeling vulnerable or being judged. I work hard to provide an environment that is accepting and supportive and simultaneously looks for ways that increase growth and healing. My approach emphasizes skill-building, self-knowledge, and balance. My experience has included working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, self esteem issues, family conflict, trauma, and other issues that accompany adolescence and adulthood. Together we'll explore the tools that will work for you in working through your issues and coming out stronger! I view my role in your life as being part of your team where I can help you determine what is best for you. It is through working together that I believe positive changes can occur.

Lauramarie Vita

(she/her)

Lauramarie Vita, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LPC
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, I'm Lauramarie. Do you find getting up and going about your day-to-day routines becoming a challenge? Are you having trouble trying to figure out who you are and how to navigate relationships with others in a healthy way? Does anxiety, stress, or frustration interfere with sleep or getting tasks accomplished? I work with adult clients to build a strong sense of self, create healthy relationships and boundaries, and work on relaxation and coping skills to decrease the impacts of symptoms of anxiety, stress, mild/moderate depression, and adjusting to transitions in life. Together we can create a person-centered set of goals to address what is not working and begin finding peace and healing. I love integrating aspects of mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and communication skills to empower you to become your best self. Whether you're dealing with changes in life, conflicts within different relationships, or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow, and you will be met with compassion, validation, and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the difficulties and habits holding you back. Let's work together! Who would not be a good fit for my practice? I've found that individuals who aren't willing to apply what is discussed and learned in session between sessions will struggle to make meaningful progress. Clients that experience complex traumas, are at a higher risk with significant depression or suicidal ideation, or children under 18 would not be a good fit at this time as well.

Melissa Lewis

(she/her)

Melissa Lewis, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of CT. I received my MSW from Fordham University and enjoy providing support and assistance to adults struggling with a large variety of mental/emotional struggles. I truly believe that everyone has the power and ability to overcome life's struggles and my job is too help them find it! I also come from a trauma focused perspective and recognize that previous trauma contributes to one's inability to recognize the control they have t I improve life circumstances.

Cheryl Ellis

(she/her)

Cheryl Ellis, LP - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LP
28 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.

Kathleen M. Walsh

(she/her)

Kathleen M. Walsh, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LPC
22 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.

Angelique R

(she/her)

Angelique R, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LPC
7 years of experience
Virtual
My passion has always been to work with individuals to increase their overall happiness, build upon their strengths, and encourage them to never give up on their goals. I have worked in the mental health field over the last 8 years. I have worked in community outpatient clinics, and group homes, and have done in-home therapy. I have more of a relaxed and goal-oriented approach to therapy. I'll show up for you how you need to be supported. I will always be honest and challenge you to reach your goals. I am friendly and hold no judgments toward my clients. I am open to feedback and we can have open communication about what works vs what does not work for you.

Cyndie Cunningham

Cyndie Cunningham, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! I am a licensed clinical social worker with 10 years of experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist committed to supporting individuals on their journey toward mental and emotional well-being. I am passionate about empowering my clients to overcome life's challenges and find inner strength and resilience.

Kelley Machado

Kelley Machado, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Kelley Machado, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Connecticut. You may wonder what does Licensed Clinical Social Worker mean, what does that allow me to do? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I have the unique opportunity to help people work through various points in their lives. In the years I have been a social worker I have worked with various populations of people from many socioeconomic, cultural, and racial backgrounds as well as people with various presenting concerns. I began my career working in the mental health system, then the criminal justice system, then onto medical social work including various medical issues as well as aging and end of life concerns. I believe people can experience difficulties with coping whenever faced with a transition in life. These changes can include monumental transitions that are both good or bad, like a new job, new family members, loss, separations, disappointments, traumatic events, etc. These types of experiences can cause psychosocial distress which can have far-reaching impacts on many aspects of our lives. I work with my clients who include children, adults, couples, and families to find healthy coping methods in order to gain a healthier perception of themselves which can help to strengthen their relationships with themselves and others so they can find themselves as comfortable, secure, and whole. I take time to get to know each of my clients on an individual basis so that I can tailor approaches to care because I have learned that not one approach impacts and helps all clients. I have been trained and adopted many approaches to provide therapeutic support including cognitive-behavioral, attachment theory, developmental theory, trauma theory, and dialectical behavioral theory. Change is not easy and embarking on change takes a tremendous amount of courage and actions. I congratulate you on your wish, strength, and wisdom for seeking help and taking this first step towards making a change in your life. If you are prepared to move beyond wishes and intentions to action and fulfillment- I am here to empower and support you to achieve your goals. I would love to help you reach your goals, whatever that may be in life so you can move forward

Roger Marinelli

(he/him)

Roger Marinelli, LMFT - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I treat individuals and couples. As a trained marriage and family therapist, I take a systemic view of my clients' lives, assessing the many factors that influence their experience. These include family history, interpersonal relationships, and individual development. It is normal for us to have ups and downs in our lives. Emotions can become difficult to handle; we may feel overwhelmed. Sometimes we develop thought patterns that can make us feel as though there is a battle going on inside of us. We may engage in behaviors that work against us as we strive to meet our goals--goals like having the kinds of relationships we want for ourselves. A competent therapist is someone who can, with genuine curiosity and compassion, help you get yourself back on track. My goal is to help folks rediscover and apply the essential skills they need to stay on track after therapy is over.

Wendy Sloan

Wendy Sloan, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LPC
24 years of experience
Virtual
Congratulations on taking the first steps to a healthier you. My name is Wendy and I am Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 20 years of experience. I believe the relationship with a client should be one that is filled with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. I utilize methods such as positive psychology and Solution-Focused Therapy styles along with motivational interviewing. This approach allows for you to be empowered to solve your own problems using your own abilities. This is a goal oriented approach to problem solving that often allows you to see the change you are looking for sooner. I also utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, but above all, I believe in meeting you where you are and supporting you every step of the way. I work with adults, adolescents and children. I am glad you have taken the first steps towards making a change in your life and I hope I can help you on your path towards a happier, healthier, you. When you are ready, I am here to support you.

Karen Menyfield

(she/her)

Karen Menyfield , LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Karen and I am a licensed therapist. The main reason I became a therapist is because I have always had a passion for helping people. And I've always believed that with a little help and guidance, we can all grow to be our best selves. I currently work with adults and have experience with criminal justice matters, drugs and alcohol, and other behavioral matters.

Elizabeth Lara

Elizabeth Lara, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hello there, I'm Liz! I work with clients who are wanting to heal from past trauma experiences and get to the root causes of their struggles. Trauma changes the way you view yourself, others, and the world. It often has lasting impacts that can be manifested in your current struggles with anxiety, depression, true fulfillment in relationships, diminished executive functioning, and difficulty with honoring your needs and boundaries. My goal is to help you gain insight, build self-awareness, and foster personal growth. Some areas of focus I enjoy addressing with my clients include boundary building, negative core beliefs, strengthening internal validation, self-care, identifying trauma responses, addressing attachment wounds, aligning to your values, improving daily functioning, and developing healthy coping strategies. I am trained in a variety of therapeutic models and techniques to help my clients including but not limited to Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Polyvagal Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. For those who desire and request it, I can integrate Christian-based counseling into the therapeutic process. I believe education/knowledge of what you are going through sets the foundation to the therapeutic work you will be doing.

Maria Vega

(she/her)

Maria Vega, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
As compassionate and dedicated psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in social work, I have honed a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health and the importance of a client-centered approach. My extensive background allows me to provide empathetic support while employing evidence-based therapeutic techniques tailored to each individual's needs. I am committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood, empowering them to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and work toward meaningful personal growth and healing.

Angel Garcia

(he/him)

Angel Garcia, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
I want to help you flourish! I truly believe that when individuals strive to be the best versions of themselves they can have a significant impact in the world. I want to help you be the best version of yourself so that you can live confidently and be able to succeed regardless of what life throws your way. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in Connecticut and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Rhode Island. I have been practicing as a therapist for more than 8 years and I love working with teenagers and adults of any age.

Alicia Zamora

(she/her)

Alicia Zamora, LMFT - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
I believe that everyone has the tools they need to implement the changes they want. As a therapist, it is my job to help you access these tools through, providing new broader perspectives and understanding how contexts and perspectives may be limiting you. I practice under the theory that relationships work in systemic ways, meaning when one aspect of a relationship is not functioning as it should another aspect will suffer. Through collaborative discussion I will challenge you to broaden your perspective in relationships, allowing you to access your internal tools to implement the necessary changes. Sometimes life is just funny, during our sessions we will laugh, cry and we may even disagree all in an effort to reach our goals and or elevate symptoms. If you are willing to do the work together we can help you create change.

Pamela English

(she/her)

Pamela English, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LPC
3 years of experience
Virtual
Pamela English is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), licensed in the state of Connecticut. Pamela has 10 years of experience working in the mental health profession. She has provided therapy for children and teens dealing with grief and loss. She has also provided case management and therapeutic services for single adult women living in a homeless shelter. She also provided counseling for older adults in a nursing home. Pamela has extensive experience with adults and clients in crisis. She has experience working with teens and families. She also has experience as a case manager; she has extensive knowledge of mental health resources and utilizes those connections while working in private practice. Pamela can provide multicultural counseling for people with a variety of racial and socioeconomic backgrounds. She has also worked closely with many members of the LGBT community, providing counseling and case management when those services may not otherwise be available to them. Pamela completed her Master of Arts (MA) in Pastoral Counseling and Spiritual Care at Fordham University. Because her degree also focused on faith-based counseling, she can provide those services to clients when necessary. Pamela provides a calming presence for her clients. She maintains quiet confidence with each client and situation. She can draw from a wide range of experiences to provide therapeutic support for each client. She is flexible and versatile when building therapeutic rapport; she provides flexible scheduling. She is very excited to develop and grow her practice with Grow Therapy.

Dina Maulucci

Dina Maulucci, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
17 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Dina. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of Dinamic Clinical Services, LLC in Connecticut. I entered the field of Social Work to become an advocate and supporter of mental wellbeing and social justice. Honoring that foundation in my practice, I treat all individuals with compassion, respect and open mind. I look forward to speaking with you.

Veronica Hopkins

(she/her)

Veronica Hopkins , LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am a licensed clinical social worker. I received my Masters in Social work from Columbia University on the advanced clinical track with a specialty in health, mental health and disabilities. I have many years experience providing trauma informed care. My approach to therapy is collaborative, client-centered, and empathetic. I have extensive experience with using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I think that it is important that one be mindful of the power of their thoughts. I do not believe that therapy is giving advice but rather I will provide a non-judgmental space to explore and determine the best way to help you.

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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 Self Esteem?

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, Self Esteem, 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.