OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions Therapists in Connecticut

Finding a therapist who accepts OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions coverage can make accessing specialized mental health support easier and more affordable. With 200 verified therapists in Connecticut who accept OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions, you can filter by therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and supportive counseling to address concerns like anxiety, depression, or stress related to complex health conditions. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is currently welcoming new clients and has availability within the next 30 days, ensuring you receive timely, compassionate care tailored to your needs and covered by your OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions insurance plan.

Availability updated: 11/18/2025

Julia Collman-Barnes

LPC, 10 years of experience

Warm
Open-minded
Empowering

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Health/Medical Issues
Military/Veterans
+5
I am a licenses mental health therapist (LMHC). I hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of New Haven (UNH) and a master’s degree in mental health counseling from Mercy College. I have been a therapist for the past ten years and in private practice for the past four years. I treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and loss. I serve medically complex patients.
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Phillip Rice

LCSW, 5 years of experience

Authentic
Empowering
Open-minded

Specialties

Depression
Men's Issues
Military/Veterans
+3
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.
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James Perrone, Ph.D.

LP, 55 years of experience

Solution oriented
Intelligent
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+3
I have been a licensed clinical psychologist and therapist for more than 30 years . If you are experiencing anxiety, family issues, depression, chronic stress , trauma, career indecision or problems with relationships , I always make an effort to truly understand your feelings and problems, and work together with you to resolve them In addition to my years of clinical experience, I have taught psychology at the undergraduate and graduate level over 60 years at several universities in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut . Thus, I also bring to you a strong academic and scientific background to help you you can advance your quest for a more fulfilling and happier life.
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Jay Carpenter

LCSW, 5 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
I am licensed in Connecticut with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, & anger management. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
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Kathy Grega

LCSW, 15 years of experience

Authentic
Open-minded
Humorous

Specialties

Depression
Family Conflict
Women's Issues
+9
Hi i am a licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of Connecticut. I received my masters from Fordham University in 2009, receiving my clinical license in 2012. I have been providing clinical services for 10 years. Working with a wide range of people from different backgrounds, economic status and age. Young adult through older life has been the primary for the last few years. I have guided through life transitions, crisis, grief, loss.
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Paul Basenfelder

LCSW, 6 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Intelligent

Specialties

Addiction
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+2
I help professionals in recovery who are carrying more than anyone realizes. Many of my clients are high-achieving people who have spent years holding everything together on the outside while privately struggling with alcohol, substances, compulsive behaviors, anxiety, or burnout. They’re people who have been depended on—at home, at work, and in their families—and they’re tired of performing, hiding, or white-knuckling their way through life. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with years of experience in addiction recovery, trauma, and life transitions, I bring a grounded, practical, and compassionate approach. My work is deeply influenced by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), values-based living, and helping clients build a life that feels aligned rather than pressured or chaotic. I understand that asking for help—especially as a professional—comes with unique challenges: reputation concerns, workplace stress, perfectionism, shame, fear of consequences, and relationships strained by years of coping alone. My role is not to judge or lecture, but to offer a private, steady space where you can talk openly, regain clarity, and take meaningful steps toward a healthier, more peaceful life. Whether you’re navigating early sobriety, long-term recovery, career demands, relationship stress, or a sense that you’ve lost yourself, I’m here to walk with you—not as an authority figure, but as someone who respects the courage it takes to show up. If you’re ready for therapy that’s confidential, respectful, and tailored to the realities of being a professional in recovery, I’d be honored to support you.
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Jaron Cotton

LCSW, 10 years of experience

Authentic
Open-minded
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+8
Hi there! My name is Jaron Cotton and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 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!
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Christopher Raposo

LCSW, 10 years of experience

Authentic
Humorous
Direct

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
+10
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.
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Tess Coggins

LPC, 3 years of experience

Empowering
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Addiction
Anger Management
Anxiety
+5
Hello, my name is Tess. I am a licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Connecticut. I am employed at a facility that treats mental health and substance use. I have 4 years of experience as a therapist that could assist with issues such as anxiety, anger, and life transition concerns. Whether you are looking for help regulating emotions, navigating a transition in your life, overcoming substance use, or looking for spiritual/personal growth, I can walk with you through your journey. I have years of experience working with individuals, helping them find strategies and techniques that work best for them and their situation, at their current stage of life.
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Ian Parker

LCSW, 17 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Humorous
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Therapy can be a scary prospect and some have had less than ideal experiences with therapy. I hope to be a safe refuge for people who are looking to feel better and find relief. I work with clients from a relational, cognitive and mind-body connection to promote progress and healing. If you are struggling with feeling emotionally run-down, alone, anxious and feeling like you want a better self to emerge from your life, but can’t quite reach that potential, we can work to find that realization. I enjoy working from a variety of methods that meet your needs, personality and style the best, from talk therapy, relational healing, and trauma treatment to providing activities, strategies and mindfulness techniques you can try at home or take with you throughout your day. There is a firm belief I hold that we are all looking to get better in our own ways and working together we can find a path to your goals that may be unique to you.
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Dr. Mertens

LP, 20 years of experience

Intelligent
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Self Esteem
+7
I'm a licensed Psychologist in CT and FL dedicated to helping you find a way to manage your symptoms and effectively negotiate the complexities of how you relate within yourself and to the world around you. I received my PH.D. in Clinical Psychology from PGSP (Palo Alto University). My APA internship was at the State of CT DMHAS River Valley Services, with rotations at CT Valley Hospital. I completed my post-doc at the UCONN Dept. of Psychology, Research Division. My career was spent working in skilled nursing and military settings.
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Rich Haste

LPC, 6 years of experience

Solution oriented
Empowering
Direct

Specialties

Life Transitions
Military/Veterans
Trauma and PTSD
Seeking strength, understanding, and a path forward? I'm not your typical therapist. I've walked the walk that you have, not just once, but twice. As a former Marine and law enforcement officer, I know firsthand the pressures, traumas, and unique challenges faced by those in service and beyond. Now, I leverage my experience and clinical expertise to guide individuals grappling with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and the invisible wounds of trauma.
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Ines Escudero

LPC, 10 years of experience

Open-minded
Intelligent
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
+4
Soy terapeuta bilingüe con una formación ecléctica que combina lo psicodinámico, la terapia cognitivo-conductual (CBT) y un enfoque centrado en el trauma. Mi estilo es cercano, respetuoso y se adapta a las necesidades de cada persona. Creo en la importancia de ofrecer un espacio seguro, donde puedas explorar lo que estás viviendo con libertad, profundidad y sin juicio. Ofrezco terapia en español para quienes buscan expresarse en su lengua materna, entendiendo lo valioso que es poder hablar en nuestro primer idioma y sentirse comprendido en todos los niveles.
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Denise DeBrady

LCSW, 15 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
+1
Hi. I am Denise DeBrady, LCSW. I graduated from the University of Connecticut with a Master's degree in Social Work. I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I work with clients of all ages, and using a warm, safe environment, assist my clients to identify their strengths, goals, and abilities to cope with and overcome their symptoms and discomforts.
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Liss Rinker

LPC, 7 years of experience

Authentic
Direct
Open-minded

Specialties

Eating Disorders
LGBTQ
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I use dogs in my office while doing therapy. Please schedule telehealth or advise in advance if you are not comfortable in an office with animals. They do provide therapeutic support to clients and have been part of my practice for some time. I hold licenses in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Florida and specialty certification as a Certified Advanced Drug & Alcohol Counselor and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I am a firm believer in everything that happens creates the person. I am a whole life counselor and work with people to explore what it would take to move past the difficult times in life. I take the time to get to know my clients and have many clients who have been with me for years. That doesn't mean someone will see me every week for the rest of their life. It means client know I am available when they have need. I do have clients who have seen me weekly for years not because they are dependent on me but because they have found benefit in processing their life regularly. I have had a successful personal practice for years and can offer clients the space and reverence to unpack the most unpleasant things to reorder them in a way they no longer can cause harm as they once did. There is no perfect childhood and it is likely families do the best they can and it may not have filled the needs of their child. I am happy to take as much time as needed to work through the problem as you understand it.
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Lena McMorran

LPC, 12 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
High Clinical Acuity
+8
Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Connecticut. I have over 12 years experience treating adolescents to older adults who are struggling with a range of issues. I completed my Master's degree from Southern Connecticut State University in clinical mental health counseling. Previously I have worked in a residential substance use program, psychiatric emergency department, intensive outpatient program and inpatient psychiatric hospital.
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Liz Talbot

LCSW, 9 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Perinatal Mental Health
Post Partum
Women's Issues
+3
Welcome! I'm Liz, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Wellness Coach, Certified Grief Professional, trained in Perinatal mood and Anxiety Disorders and owner of Whole Wellness Counseling, LLC. More specifically, I am someone who can work with you to create more peace and fulfillment within your life and your relationships with others. Are you a mother who is feeling burnt out or overwhelmed with the constant responsibilities of caring for little ones? Maybe you're feeling unheard within your relationship and are looking for ways to regain that spark. Are you struggling with your past traumas or the current loss of a loved one? Do you feel like your grief is going to last forever without finding any peace? I specialize in working with mothers of young children - trained in maternal mental health. I am also trained to work with women who are struggling to move forward from the weight of their trauma, depression, and anxiety symptoms; and individuals navigating the heartbreak of loss. I will gently challenge you to make lasting behavioral changes that can have a positive impact on the overall quality of your life. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I will meet you with compassion and grace using evidence-based techniques with a laid-back approach. Together we can find a healthy and fulfilling balance to handle whatever season of life you may be in. I can't wait to meet you! wholewellnesscounselingllc.com
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Tanya Edwards

LCSW, 23 years of experience

Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Depression
Life Transitions
Older Adults
+1
Hello There ! My name is Tanya Edwards. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have accumulated over 15 years of clinical experiences with diverse populations. My practice focus areas include issues attached to depression, grief, distorted self-image, career challenges, parental caregiving, friendship transitions, and entering new life stages. My practice is geared towards empowerment for growth, sustainment, and more growth!
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Ronald Williams

LCSW, 10 years of experience

Authentic
Direct
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+4
I bring something to individual and couples therapy that is rare today and not from a text book, that is lived experience. In drawing from different evidence based schools of thought in combination with my lived experiences we will employ such modalities of therapy such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. Adversity and struggle are situations that are common. The goal to avoid both would be ideal but that is not reality. Peace and calmness in the mist of adversity and struggle is a possible reality and what we will strive to help you achieve.
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Sergena Laine

LCSW, 8 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Direct
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Mood Disorders
Older Adults
Trauma and PTSD
+9
My name is Sergena and I'm so grateful to be part of your healing journey. In my work as a social worker, I have traveled all over the United States providing services to individuals and systems in need. My therapeutic style is largely eclectic, meaning I use different styles depending on who my client is and what their concerns are. I am trained in TF-CBT, ACT, CBT, and am presently studying Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. My primary focus is trauma, though I also work closely with those with co-occuring substance use disorders and mood disorders.
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Penelope Praylow-Kyles

LCSW, 7 years of experience

Open-minded
Warm

Specialties

Life Transitions
Self Esteem
Women's Issues
I’m Penelope—a therapist who supports women and teens through life transitions, building healthy boundaries, and strengthening self-esteem. Outside of therapy, I love spending time outdoors, traveling, and being with my family, and I bring that same sense of curiosity and connection into my work. I believe you are the expert on yourself, and my role is to walk beside you as a guide while you uncover your own answers. Together, we’ll focus on empowerment, confidence, and creating more peace and clarity in your life.
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Najmeh Mahani

LPC, 6 years of experience

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
+5
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Masters from Houston Baptist University and have been practicing for 6 years. I hold license to practice in state of Texas also Connecticut. I help teens and adults with different concerns and conflicts such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, eating disorders also personality disorders to become the best version of themselves.
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Shirley Gedney-Rubel

LPC, 10 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+2
Hey there! I'm Shirley. We all struggle sometimes. You may need to make a change or a difficult decision. You may feel unsure of how to solve a problem. While family and friends may want to help, they often are unequipped to be truly helpful. Talking with someone unbiased and nonjudgmental can be most helpful when you feel lost or face barriers to achieving your hopes and dreams. I am a compassionate and knowledgeable licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Connecticut. I have 10+ years of diverse experience including trauma, substance abuse treatment, and domestic violence counseling and advocacy. I approach each client with an open mind and an open heart. I believe each person is the “expert” on themselves and it is my job to help them find the tools that will work for them. My journey to counseling has been a long and winding road, going back to school at the age of 50 after a successful culinary career. I graduated top of my class with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Bridgeport. In addition to a comprehensive education, I bring a wealth of life experience to the therapy room. I have been through marriage, divorce, parenting challenges, personal loss, and so much more. I love helping my clients find their passion and direction. I am humbled to walk with them as they discover their life path. I look forward to working with you as you begin your own journey.
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Anthony DeMieri

LCSW, 17 years of experience

Open-minded
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Self Esteem
Spirituality
Trauma and PTSD
+9
I provide compassionate and person-centered mental health care. I have worked as a therapist for seventeen years in a variety of settings. I have worked as a therapist for outpatient mental health clinics in both New York and Connecticut, served as a clinician for a psychiatric rehabilitation center, and a clinician for the NYS court system. I served as a field instructor for Quinnipiac University, and I am passionate about my chosen vocation as a clinical social worker. I am currently a crisis clinician/mental health first responder and serve as a therapist in private practice. My expertise is in the field of CBT. In addition, I am formally trained and hold a degree in Philosophy and Religious Studies, which enables me to provide counseling from a Christian lens. I am also in the process of completing formal training in EMDR and have completed some clinical consultation hours already in EMDR. If you want a strong therapist in your corner- a therapist with nearly two decades of diverse clinical experience with advanced clinical practice wisdom, then I may be the right therapist for you.
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Eliz Bruno

LMFT, 6 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Coping Skills
Couples Counseling
Family Therapy
As a bilingual Marriage and Family Therapist, I am committed to providing comprehensive care to individuals across the lifespan. My therapeutic approach is holistic, collaborative, and person-centered, encouraging active participation in the healing process. When appropriate, I am also equipped to incorporate faith-based interventions in alignment with the client's preferences. In my role as a psychotherapist, I strive to offer steadfast support and empathetic guidance as clients work toward their therapeutic goals. Together, we will engage in a meaningful and transformative process aimed at dismantling generational patterns, addressing intrusive thoughts, and fostering a deeper understanding of emotional experiences, behavioral responses, and interpersonal dynamics. It would be a privilege to accompany you on this journey of personal growth, as you work to reshape your narrative and cultivate a more balanced and fulfilling life.
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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 OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions?

Yes! If you use OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions 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.