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 194 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: 12/1/2025

Julia Collman-Barnes

LPC, 10 years of experience

Humorous
Solution oriented

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.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Briana Dovi

LCSW, 12 years of experience

Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Women's Issues
+10
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.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Christopher Raposo

LCSW, 10 years of experience

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.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Rich Haste

LPC, 6 years of experience

Solution oriented
Open-minded
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.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Tess Coggins

LPC, 3 years of experience

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.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Dr. Mertens

LP, 20 years of experience

Intelligent
Direct
Warm

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.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Angel Garcia

LPC, 8 years of experience

Intelligent
Empowering
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
+9
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 Counselor in Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and 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.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Jennifer Clesi

LCSW, 35 years of experience

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Older Adults
+5
With 35 years of experience as a social worker, I have had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages—from children and teens to couples and families. Over the years, I have honed a deep understanding of the unique challenges people face, whether it's managing depression, anxiety, or navigating difficult life transitions. As a stepmother of 38 years, I bring firsthand experience with the complexities of stepfamily dynamics, and I specialize in helping blended families find harmony. I believe in the power of a compassionate, collaborative approach to therapy. As a good listener, I am committed to working alongside you to create a treatment plan that reflects your unique needs and aspirations. Together, we'll focus on your goals and take meaningful steps towards you becoming the best version of yourself. I am excited about the opportunity to work with you and support your journey to healing and growth.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Aida Valerio

LCSW, 11 years of experience

Specialties

Anxiety
Family Conflict
Women's Issues
+5
Hello! I’m Aida Valerio. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who found my calling 11 years ago having discovered that I wanted to provide people with a therapeutic space to heal, grow, and ultimately transform. Are you going through a personal challenge or major life transition? Do you need a safe space to have your experiences affirmed and validated? Do you feel overwhelmed by your emotions and in need of support? Have you considered speaking to someone but are unsure of how to begin? Wherever you are in your journey, I want to congratulate you on exploring possibilities to receive help. Therapy, like anything new or unknown, can feel scary. When Wendy was learning how to fly in Peter Pan, her fear of “what if I fall?” was met with Peter’s response of “oh, darling, what if you fly?” Not only did she fly, but she also transformed. My therapeutic approach is gentle, warm, and trauma-informed to ensure your comfort every step of the way. I listen attentively and non-judgmentally, welcoming your authentic self. You can express yourself in English and/or Spanish as I am fluent in both languages.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session
No reviews yet

Xanthe Moss

LCSW, 6 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Parenting
+2
I am a therapist with experience supporting children, teens, adults, and families as they navigate life’s challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, parenting stress, and major life transitions. My approach is collaborative as well as goal-oriented. I use evidence-based frameworks such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy, combined with a strengths-based perspective, to help clients identify practical strategies for change. Each treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs so that therapy feels relevant, effective, and empowering. My goal is to help you build insight, develop coping tools, and experience meaningful progress in a supportive space.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Meredithe Sieradzki

LPC, 1 years of experience

Intelligent
Warm

Specialties

Spirituality
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) from Connecticut. I received my Master's Degree from New York University (NYU) with a focus on Counseling for Mental Health & Wellness and a research interest in spirituality and trauma. I have worked with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault for the past 8 years. I help survivors of trauma to thrive and create a new future based on inner strengths. I utilize an integrative, eclectic approach to therapy.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Sam Abbott

LPC, 3 years of experience

Authentic
Warm

Specialties

ADHD
Child or Adolescent
Coping Skills
+10
Hi, I’m Sam, a Licensed Professional Counselor here in Connecticut. I grew up in Alabama and earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Montevallo. Since then, I’ve dedicated my career to supporting kids, teens, and families through some of life’s toughest challenges. I’ve had the privilege of working with young people facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, attachment struggles, and substance use. I also work closely with clients who are living with chronic illnesses, as well as those exploring and affirming their LGBTQ+ identities. My goal is to create a space where you feel seen, supported, and understood—no matter what you’re going through.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

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.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Jay Carpenter

LCSW, 5 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Direct

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!
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Ines Escudero

LPC, 10 years of experience

Open-minded
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.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Christine Twitty

LPC, 5 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Grief
+8
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in CT and AK. I graduated from Capella University with a Masters of Science (mental health counseling). I am currently working with adults with a variety of stressors: ADHD, anxiety, depression, motivation, disabilities, chronic illness, grief/loss and other phase of life issues in a trauma-informed, multicultural awareness, strength-based orientation using a variety of tools customized to the client.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Eliz Bruno

LMFT, 6 years of experience

Warm
Authentic

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.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

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.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Ronald Williams

LCSW, 10 years of experience

Open-minded
Warm

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.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Kim Perkins

LCSW, 19 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Couples Counseling
Military/Veterans
Trauma and PTSD
Welcome to a transformative journey towards emotional well-being and healthier relationships. I’m Kim Perkins, a dedicated psychotherapist specializing in couples therapy, anxiety, depression and PTSD. With 19 years of experience, I offer a compassionate and evidenced-based approach to help individuals and couples navigate through life’s challenges. Take the first step towards positive change today. Your well-being is my priority, and I look forward to assisting you on your path to a brighter tomorrow.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Denise DeBrady

LCSW, 15 years of experience

Empowering
Warm
Authentic

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.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Jodeci Oquendo

LPC, 8 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Open-minded
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+10
Hey! I'm Jodeci Oquendo and I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor based in North Carolina and Connecticut. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Saint Joseph in Connecticut, and have been practicing for 8 years. I have worked in community outpatient clinics, intensive in-home programs, and telehealth settings supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Paul Basenfelder

LCSW, 6 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Humorous

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.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Deborah Alter

LCSW, 25 years of experience

Solution oriented
Direct
Open-minded

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+10
“Between stimulus and response, there is a space; within that space is your power and freedom…” Here’s the thing; we’re all basically the same- but then again, not. Our reactions (to unexpected events, comments, public scrutiny) vary, depending on our nature, personality, character and whether or not we’ve had breakfast. While the last part was just to get your attention, I’m committed to understanding what makes YOU “tick” and why you respond the way you do. That, in and of itself may be fascinating, but my true intention is to get you back on track, help you find your footing and become laser-focused & confident, independent of the circumstances . A bit about me: A native New Yorker, I acquired my MSW following a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from CCNY. Essentially, I view myself as a Life Coach, a motivator who recognizes that we’re ALL unique individuals, but do share many of the same thoughts & feelings. Most of us have struggled with anxiety, uncertainty and self-doubt- yet we’ve also experienced feeling confident, grounded and secure at one time or another. Then something happened. Our backgrounds and early childhood experiences, our genetic predispositions all serve to shape our personalities and the essence of our being. To that end, as a clinician, I strive to guide individuals to examine their beliefs- in order to gain insight into their potentially self-destructive behavior- or whatever is getting in the way of their progress. Together, we explore why you’ve sought treatment Now and what you’re looking to achieve or gain. What do you identify as the challenges or issues, what have you tried so far and what’s blocking you? Is it apathy or complacency that’s overshadowing what used to be determination & drive? Is it fear, feelings of inadequacy, imposter syndrome? Let’s find out…
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session

Liss Rinker

LPC, 7 years of experience

Authentic
Open-minded
Direct

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.
VirtualNext available on
View profile
Book session
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.