Optum Therapists in Florida

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 938 verified therapists in Florida 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.

Find therapists near you in

MiamiJacksonvilleOrlandoTampa

Availability updated: 7/2/2025

Debra Dragomir

Debra Dragomir, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am deeply committed to supporting individuals across all stages of life as they navigate complex emotional and mental health challenges. My experience working with diverse age groups has given me a profound appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit, whether guiding young clients through developmental struggles, assisting adults in overcoming life transitions, or helping seniors find meaning and peace. I integrate evidence-based therapeutic approaches with compassionate, person-centered care, fostering a safe space for healing and growth.

Sondos Jaber

(she/her)

Sondos Jaber, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with experience in various mental health settings including emergency departments, private practice, and psychiatric facilities. I am EMDR certified with major focus in trauma, suicidal ideations, depression, self-esteem, and anxiety. My goal is to be a compassionate, authentic, respectful guide and to provide you with a safe and judgment free environment.

Jonell Pearce

(she/her)

Jonell Pearce, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who are experiencing concerns with, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, critical self-talk, interpersonal relationships, emotional dysregulation, and parent/child conflict and connection. I have worked in various clinical settings providing crisis stabilization and therapy services to individuals of all ages. I utilize a holistic and personalized approach, specializing in trauma, interpersonal relationships, loss and grief, parent/child relationships, adolescent challenges, and parent support. I employ a straightforward and empathetic approach while utilizing strength-based and person-centered perspectives to help those I work with obtain their treatment goals and realize their greatest potential.

Mindy McCarty

(she/her)

Mindy McCarty, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
5 years of experience
Virtual
As an integrative therapist with over a decade of experience, I specialize in guiding clients toward holistic wellness and enhanced self-awareness. My approach combines evidence-based practices with a deep understanding of the mind-body connection, empowering you to take control of your life and unlock your full potential. Drawing from my unique journey as both a client and a professional, I offer a compassionate, trauma-informed perspective that helps you navigate challenges, overcome anxiety, and thrive during life transitions. Through personalized interventions like brain-based hypnotherapy and polyvagal techniques, I'll help you tap into your inner resilience, reshape thought patterns, and cultivate lasting positive change. Partner with me to embark on a transformative journey towards becoming the best version of yourself, grounded in wellness and equipped with powerful tools for lifelong growth.

Kimberly Carlesi

(she/her)

Kimberly Carlesi, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
3 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Kimberly. I’m a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) based in Florida, and I earned my master’s degree at Florida International University. My clinical journey began in a residential treatment center specializing in eating disorders, where I had the privilege of working closely with individuals navigating various challenges related to disordered eating. This experience deeply shaped my approach and solidified my commitment to helping clients build healthier relationships with food and their bodies. Since then, I’ve expanded my practice to work with individuals facing a range of issues, including anxiety, trauma, and depression, while always remaining rooted in my passion for supporting those with eating disorders. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives.

Laura Beth Blomquist

(they/them)

Laura Beth Blomquist, LMFT - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
7 years of experience
Virtual
My background is in teaching yoga and meditation, both of which I incorporate in sessions. Rest assured that I will collaborate with you so each and every session supports you and your needs, exactly as you are. Our work together will be collaborative and tailored to your evolving needs. I support clients both in and outside of sessions, with the option to communicate between sessions.

Adriana Santiago

(she/her)

Adriana Santiago, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hi and Welcome! I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults to address mental health concerns and improve their quality of life. My clients have come to me for a variety of reasons. These include: Seeking guidance, addressing unhelpful thinking patterns & behaviors, goal-setting, improving level of emotional regulation & self-care, increasing self-awareness & self-compassion, treating mental health symptoms related to anxiety & depression or simply craving a safe space. There are no concerns too small to begin your therapeutic journey! I believe that everyone can achieve and is deserving of a happy and fulfilling life. I take a collaborative and well-rounded approach to guide those in achieving their therapeutic goals. Together we will work towards what is most relevant to you or your child for your or their presenting concerns. By using my clinical skill set, creativity and emphasis on the therapeutic relationship I have been able to make a positive impact with my clients!

Nelsy Villalobos

(she/her)

Nelsy Villalobos, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience, I am deeply committed to helping individuals navigate emotional challenges and create meaningful, lasting change. My work is grounded in a compassionate, client-centered approach that honors each person’s unique story and resilience. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-esteem issues across the lifespan—from pre-teen (over age 11) to older adults. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and shift unhelpful thought patterns that impact their mood, behavior, and relationships. To support holistic healing, I integrate mindfulness-based strategies that enhance emotional awareness and regulation, along with trauma-focused care that prioritizes safety, trust, and empowerment.

Jed Shlackman, M.S. Ed.

(he/him)

Jed Shlackman, M.S. Ed., LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
26 years of experience
Virtual
Jed Shlackman, M.S. Ed., LMHC provides a variety of individual, family, and group counseling and healing services. Jed combines traditional humanistic and cognitive oriented psychotherapy approaches with holistic guidance and advanced mind-body and energetic healing methods (such as hypnotherapy, meditation, Reiki, mindfulness, energy psychology, emotional release, trauma healing, sound healing) that can foster deep healing and more rapid transformation - physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Jed has worked as a counselor for over 25 years and has trained in a wide spectrum of counseling and healing methods. Jed provides a client-centered approach that seeks to identify which resources will best support the client and promote well-being and solutions that truly enhance life and build resilience. Jed is a native of South Florida and studied psychology and counseling at the University of Miami. While beginning his career providing counseling for children and adolescents and their families Jed went through a process of spiritual exploration and self-discovery that led to subsequent training in hypnotherapy, Reiki and energy healing, energy psychology, meditation, sound healing, trauma healing, and other complementary and alternative healing methods. Jed is also an author, with books available on Amazon, and is an amateur musician performing as "Jedi Shaman." Jed provides counseling and healing services with a holistic orientation, which refers to addressing the "whole" person and the systems and environments the person is a part of. This approach incorporates cognitive, humanistic, family systems, and psychodynamic therapies as well as transpersonal psychological therapies, hypnosis, energy psychology, expressive therapies, mind-body healing modalities, and vibrational/energetic healing approaches, as well as somatic therapies and addressing biological systems with herbs, essential oils, diet, and nutritional interventions. As a multi-talented, compassionate counselor with extensive knowledge and diverse experience Jed provide comprehensive healing services and collaboration with clients.

Ginette Moise

(she/her)

Ginette Moise, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
3 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Ginette Moise, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor serving residents across Florida. I am passionate about the work I do and deeply value the therapeutic process. I take pride in helping clients navigate their challenges, fostering growth and healing along the way. In my practice, I strive to create a space that is open-minded, empowering, and supportive. I believe in walking alongside my clients as they work through life's difficulties, offering guidance grounded in empathy and evidence-based approaches.

Hontah Epps

Hontah Epps, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
26 years of experience
Virtual
2024 is my 25th year as a social worker, clinical therapist, educator, supervisor, and leader committed to support vulnerable populations. My Social Work career was initiated by my passion to support those within vulnerable populations, specifically within the child welfare system. I began my career as a Social Worker working within the Child Welfare system in New York City. In 2003, I relocated to Charlotte, NC and continued my work within Child Welfare as a Child Protective Services Social Worker. In 2008, I obtained my clinical licensure which initiated my move from providing direct clinical services to children, young adults and families.

Shelley Edwards

(She/Her)

Shelley Edwards, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
7 years of experience
Virtual
I am dedicated to empowering my clients as we work together to overcome the everyday challenges of life. By exploring the underlying behavioral and emotional patterns that often arise from unmet needs or unresolved wounds, we can uncover meaningful insights and lasting change. I believe that all people have intrinsic value and purpose. I also know that being a human can be challenging. Thankfully, we’re all in this together. There are helpers for the journey. My goal is to guide you toward your goals. I consider it a privilege and an honor to walk with you as you create a life you don’t want to escape.

Jill Rosen

Jill Rosen, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
I have been the field for 30 years and have worked in many different areas. From, inpatient psychiatric settings, to addiction center rand private practice and family based programs. I am skilled at assisting individuals reach their true potential. Sometimes we feel blocked and need to process our thoughts and dreams in a safe setting. There are many obstacles that can get in the way and together we can discover what they are.

Mary Ann Hensley

Mary Ann Hensley, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
25 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Georgia, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida, and a Registered Play Therapist (RPT). I hold an Ed.D. in Counseling Psychology. I retired from school counseling and became a full-time mental health therapist approximately 8 years ago. I have worked with clients from varied parts of the world, ages 3-70 years old, and with diverse issues/challenges (e.g., LBGTQIA+, anxiety, depression, PTSD, parenting, ADHD, etc.). My 25 years of experience has given me insight into a wide range of solutions, a "problem-to-be-solved" attitude, and a compassionate ear.

Adejare McMillan

(he/him)

Adejare McMillan, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Combining Transformative Justice Practices with Clinical Mental Health Counseling Techniques, Adejare (Ah-Day-Jah-Ray) McMillan, is professionally known as The Transformative Justice Therapist. This South Florida-based speaker, poet, and activist holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling, and is State Licensed as a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). Additionally, he is currently writing his dissertation towards the completion of a Ph.D. in Couples and Family Therapy at Nova Southeastern University. For the last decade, he has worked with people of all races, lifestyles, and ages — as young as 13 and upwards of 70 years old. Having been a member of several organizations dedicated to human rights and social justice, Adejare finds time to remain engaged in community activism, advocacy, and organizing — at times, specifically as a Transformative Justice Circle Keeper and Trainer.

Velma Stevens

(she/her)

Velma Stevens, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
28 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, My name is Velma Penermon Stevens, therapist with Soulistic Counseling and Therapeutic Services, LLC.. I am a licensed therapist (LCSW-QS) in the state of Florida. I attended Florida A&M University for undergraduate school then I went on to obtain my MSW degree from Florida State University. I have over 25 years working in the not for profit sector and 10 years in pastoral care. It is these work experiences where I gained my passion to help others, leading me to open my own private practice agency.

Sarah DeRosa

(she/her)

Sarah DeRosa, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm Sarah, a licensed mental health therapist based in Florida. I provide virtual psychotherapy to young adults (>30). I help my clients to build self-esteem, resiliency, and overcome life's obstacles through a personalized treatment plan. Many of my clients feel "stuck" and are struggling with a range of issues including negative self-talk, specific phobias, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.

Melissa Ruff

(she/her)

Melissa Ruff, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
29 years of experience
Virtual
I am a practicing clinical social worker with 29 years of experience and have practiced in Maryland; currently new to Florida. I utilize a collaborative approach to self determination and self improvement with adults and families. I have extensive experience in Bipolar Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injuries and Trauma. I worked as a Social Worker with older Adults for 10 plus years and am comfortable with providing resources and mental health support to that population.

Vania Astudillo

(she/her)

Vania Astudillo, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! My name is Vania Astudillo, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with over four years of experience supporting individuals through a wide range of life challenges. Whether you're navigating stress, anxiety, life transitions, or just looking for personal growth, I'm here to support you every step of the way. I truly believe that therapy is a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery, and I feel honored to walk alongside my clients on their journey. You don’t have to go through things alone—together, we’ll work toward creating meaningful, lasting change in your life.

Laura Ojeda

Laura Ojeda, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Are you overwhelmed by your emotions? Do you feel alone, misunderstood, and as if you’re not good enough? My name is Laura, and I am a bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Emotional Freedom Techniques - tapping (EFT) practitioner in Florida. I specialize in assisting people who feel similarly to how you are feeling in this moment: overwhelmed, misunderstood, alone and with not sight of a way out. Let me help you walk through those feelings, as scary as it might feel or sound. The path gets easier when we walk alongside others, and you are not alone. I utilize a cognitive behavioral approach, EFT - tapping to assist individuals and their loved ones make sense of their inner world. Emotions can be confusing, and sometimes there is no way of making sense of them. With CBT and EFT, I can assist you with processing and working through those challenging memories and emotions.

Michael Shippole

(he/him)

Michael Shippole, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
1 year of experience
Virtual
As your licensed mental health counselor, we'll begin by building a strong and trusting rapport, which lays the foundation for effective therapy. Together, we will carefully identify your presenting issues and concerns, exploring the patterns, emotions, and experiences that have shaped your current challenges. Using evidence-based therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness practices, I will tailor our sessions to meet your unique needs. Along the way, we will create clear, achievable strategies designed to help you reach your personal, academic, or professional goals. Throughout the process, you will feel genuinely heard and understood in a safe, supportive environment. You will gain confidence in your ability to navigate difficulties, develop greater emotional resilience, and foster personal growth that leads to meaningful and lasting change. My goal is to empower you to live a more fulfilling, balanced life while equipping you with the tools to continue thriving beyond our time together.

Guadalupe Perez

Guadalupe Perez, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
7 years of experience
Virtual
With a Masters in Psychology from the Florida International University, I am currently licensed as a Mental Health Counselor and practicing in the State of Florida, where I hold both in-person and virtual sessions. My clients have a wide range of needs, so I tailor my sessions to them. As a result, they benefit from different treatment methods depending on the situation, such as CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), which addresses negative thinking, or mindfulness, which focuses on the present moment. I also have a number of tools that can facilitate deeper learning and change within your sessions. With several years of experience treating a wide range of mental health issues, I'm sure we can establish a good therapeutic relationship. In addition, I have extensive experience working with clients who have experienced complex trauma, such as domestic violence, sexual abuse, incest, or who have suffered from serious illness. I also have experience with anxiety disorders, marital issues, acculturation, and adjustment disorders.

Lorraine A Gibbings

(she/her)

Lorraine A Gibbings, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
8 years of experience
Virtual
Do you struggle with making decisions, finding it hard to fall asleep, letting go of the past or overcoming an unhealthy relationship? Poor sense of worth? Hitting to close to home? Well you have come to the right place. I provide a sense of hope that what you are experiencing is not your Normal and that you can get more out of life! I believe in providing a collaborative setting for my clients in hopes that it will facilitate growth but most of all HOPE. Encouraging clients to see their own potential that they already posses, assisting them in identifying their own negative perceptions or unhealthy thoughts that perpetuates the negative beliefs of self. Therapy is an awakening where self-love, honesty and commitment are a triangle that reaches Happiness. We all thrive to obtain our individual Nirvana or Self- Fulfillment, nonetheless we struggle with the motivation or having the lack of resources. I am here to guide and assist you along this journey. We know change can be challenging and sometimes scary. However, with perseverance and assistance from myself (your personal clinical confidant), we can process and achieve these goals together. So tell me, are you ready? If so, I am here to walk alongside you with encouragement and support!

Kelly Corcoran Hone

Kelly Corcoran Hone, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
25 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Kelly , and I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida since 1999. I also have 20 years teaching experience at Palm Beach State College in psychology. I aim to create a genuine connection with my clients, Provide an atmosphere, that feels comfortable and supportive, and guide them through the changes they're looking to make. I feel the most important part of a therapeutic relationship is the connection you have with your clients.

Rob Pritz

(he/him)

Rob Pritz, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
15 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a National Certified Counselor with over 10 years of experience providing therapeutic services to individuals and families. I am dedicated to the field of psychotherapy and committed to the client/therapist relationship. I have a Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Palo Alto University, CA. As a therapist, I am non-judgmental, empathetic and eager to see you become your best self. I am open minded and value the art of listening. I believe in the power of gained insight and self awareness. I trust that you can succeed in whatever it is you set your mind to. As a therapist and client team- We got this!

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Florida rather than a city like Tampa?

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 Florida from Miami to Jacksonville! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Florida.

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 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.