Optum Therapists in Florida

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 1770 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: 7/20/2025

Liz Gazala

Liz Gazala, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) and licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). I obtained my masters degree from NOVA Southeastern University. I have been practicing since 2015; I started out at a homeless shelter, moved to in-home family/parenting therapy and from there worked at a local high school for several years. Meanwhile, I was building my private practice working with clients suffering from addiction. Currently, I run my own private practice working with teens and adults looking for support for a variety of concerns.

Cindy Dietrich

Cindy Dietrich, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I’m Cindy, a bilingual in Spanish and English, Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). I provide individual, couples and family therapy services. I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Central Florida and my master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. I'm fascinated by how people’s minds work and develop. When working with individuals, I love to understand how they became who they are and how they can make their lives more fulfilling. I am passionate about improving the well-being of others by helping them grow emotionally and in their pursuit of happiness. I'm curious by nature and enjoy trying to understand what's beyond what they present. That's why I became a psychotherapist. I've worked with children, adults, couples, and families, and I have worked with a range of mental health disorders. I also have experience working with individuals of diverse cultures and backgrounds including all age groups, LGBTQ+, substance abuse, neurodivergence, and military personnel and families. Whether you're dealing with overwhelming emotions, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression or past trauma, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!

Mercedes Harrison

Mercedes Harrison, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
1 year of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience as School Counselor. I have great deal of experiences working with multiple populations from all walks of life. I collaborate with my clients to help them address their challenges and find their own inner strength! We address challenges like anxiety, mood, stress, adjustment challenges, anger management, conflict resolution, self-expression, goal setting, traumatic experiences, isolation, coping skills, emotion management, and family/peer relationship

Chris Merritt

Chris Merritt, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience helping individuals navigate the challenges of depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and major life transitions. My work is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a deep respect for each person’s unique story. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about your next steps, therapy can be a place to make sense of where you are and begin creating meaningful change. While I work with a diverse range of clients, I often support professionals facing career-related stress, burnout, or difficult decisions, as well as individuals seeking clarity in the midst of complex relationships or life transitions.

April Smith

April Smith, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
13 years of experience
Virtual
I’m a licensed mental health counselor based in Florida. I received my Master’s degree from Capella University and I have been practicing for over 10 years. I work with adults by guiding them through the complexities of mental health and empowering them to cope effectively. I’m a licensed mental health counselor based in Florida. I received my Master’s degree from Capella University and I have been practicing for over 10 years. I work with adults by guiding them through the complexities of mental health and empowering them to cope effectively.

Vicki Bauer

Vicki Bauer, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
39 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm Vicki, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Behavior Analyst. Are you struggling with problems that have a negative impact on your quality of life? Tired of trying to figure out how to change things on your own? I would love to work with you to help you sort through those things that are keeping you from living the life you want to enjoy. I enjoy the art of applying a unique blend of mental health and behavioral approaches to life's problems. I love supporting motivated individuals to identify those areas of their lives that are standing in the way of experiencing the high quality life they want and deserve. Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, family issues, overwhelm, anxiety or depression, I am here to help you identify what's not working in your life and get you to a place of balance and inner calm. Together, we can create a safe space for you to share and develop new skills. As we work together, I can provide you with research- and evidence-based tools and techniques to address those problematic life areas. I look forward to working together!

Marissa Gilbert

Marissa Gilbert, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Marissa Gilbert, and I have been practicing therapy for over ten years. I’m excited to work with you and support you on your journey of personal growth and healing. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming space where you can freely express yourself without fear of judgment. I tailor my approach to therapy based on each client’s unique needs and where they are in their journey. My role is to listen, understand your concerns, and help you gain insights to navigate life’s challenges. Whether you're seeking support for depression, anxiety, family issues, or self-esteem, I am here to help you grow and empower you along the way. I strive to be down-to-earth and authentic so clients feel comfortable and connected during sessions. When a client leaves saying their session felt easy or enjoyable, I know we’re making progress in the right direction.

Michelle Mercado

Michelle Mercado, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Michelle Mercado and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have obtained my Master's degree in Social Work at Florida International University. I realize that no two people are the same and as such, I tailor my therapy to meet the specific needs of my clients. My practice specializes in treating: Depression Life transitions Self-esteem Stress Anxiety Peer relations School issues Autism spectrum ADHD Substance abuse LGBTQ+ Behavioral issues Anger Management Mood disorders Bipolar disorder

Willette Lewis

(she/her)

Willette Lewis, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
7 years of experience
Virtual
I'm so glad you're here! I’m Ms. Lewis, a compassionate and dedicated therapist with a deep commitment to supporting individuals on their journey toward healing and growth. With a warm and nonjudgmental approach, I create a safe space where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions openly. I became a therapist because I genuinely love helping individuals become the best version of themselves, feel heard, and find significance in their lives. Being a therapist allows me to witness and support the incredible resilience of the human spirit. It is a privilege to guide clients toward clarity, healing, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Nicholas Kolos

(he/him)

Nicholas Kolos, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello my name is Nicholas Kolos. I am a licensed mental health counselor and a licensed marriage and family therapist. I love my profession and look forward to helping my clients achieve their individual goals. I get excited when I see clients with unrealized potential and then help them become the best version of themselves! I love to help those who are struggling in their personal or work relationships learn how to better communicate their needs and improve the quality of those relationships! I tailor my treatment plans to best help each individual case achieve success!

Cheryl Breining

(she/her)

Cheryl Breining, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Clinical Licensed Social Worker in Florida and Certified LIfe Coach. I have a Masters in Counseling , School Psychology, and Social Work.. I am a retired teacher and guidance counselor from New York and a Certified Life Coach. A have also completed Addca's ADHD training. I received my license as a Clinical Social Worker from the state of Florida. I work with individuals diagnosed with ADHD of all ages and their parents. By utilizing positive psychology and strength based methods I help clients deal with self esteem, time management, organizational skills, executive function, and anxiety issues. I also work with clients who are experiencing stress and self esteem issues. During our sessions we work together to develop strategies that will allow them to work towards their goals.

Nicole R. Smith

(she/her)

Nicole R. Smith, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello beautiful person! I am Nicole, a Native of Orlando, Florida, an enthusiastic, energetic, and extremely passionate Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience in the fields of Mental Health, Behavioral Health, and Substance Use Disorders. I am a proud HBCU graduate from The Illustrious Tuskegee University, where I received my Bachelors of Arts degree in Sociology with a Minor in Psychology. I then went on to gain my Masters of Science Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. I love to utilize a unique, authentic, and genuine approach to provide; holistic Clinical Mental Health Therapy, addiction Therapy, Trauma Informed care, therapeutic academic tutoring, effective communication skills, parenting coaching, and Motivational & Therapeutic Life Coaching services to adults and teenagers from various backgrounds, genders, and ages; that suffer with Adjustment disorders, Depression, Serious Mental Illnesses, Personality disorders, Major Depression, PTSD, Negative Self Image, Substance Use disorders, learning disabilities, Conduct Disorders, incarceration & re-entry, and co-occurring disorders such as ADHD & Anxiety. In my free time one of my very favorite hobbies is using my creativity to Curate, promote and plan parties and events for the youth and the underserved in my community. These events are exciting, super Fun, and a whole vibe for my friends, family and neighbors to collectively celebrate Love, Life, and share all-around good energy!  

Charles Blickle

(he/him)

Charles Blickle, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Christian therapist who feels that every adult person's spiritual beliefs are a strong factor for emotional healing. I am convinced that a life of hope, faith, and peace of mind awaits you. I want to help guide you to develop a clean pattern of life, a clean conscience, and self-confidence, which will remove the shadow of fear and guilt that seems to be hanging over you. Let me help you and together we will work on your development of the skills, for the successful and rewarding life that you have always desired. I received my MA in Mental Health Counseling from the University of South Florida. I have five years' experience. I did counseling at a housing center, with individuals experiencing interpersonal conflicts with members of their family. I also did counseling with the adult through Geriatrics population at a Community Mental Health Center.

Lauren Buck

Lauren Buck, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
3 years of experience
Virtual
I’m a licensed mental health counselor that meets you where you are — literally and emotionally. Through secure telehealth sessions, I help adults work through anxiety, trauma, burnout, life transitions, and all the messy in-between moments. My approach is trauma-informed, culturally aware, and deeply human. No judgment. No pretense. Just real talk, real healing, and real tools you can use.

Tasha Singh

(she/her)

Tasha Singh, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, providing virtual services to support you through life’s transitions. Dealing with responsibilities, relationships, and stress, can sometimes create and imbalance and have you feeling lost. I can help you navigate and provide skills to assist you to creating a calmer balance and consistently overcome these issues. Building a trusting relationship is at the forefront in the ability for the relationship to grow over time, therefore making the client feel safe and comfortable to open up are my goals as a therapist. ** Please feel free to reach out if you want to check availability outside of what is posted, I am able to accommodate***

Magda McGuire

(she/her)

Magda McGuire, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
9 years of experience
Virtual
I'm Magda McGuire, a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Mental Health Counselor. My commitment to my profession is evident through almost a decade-long career in counseling, where I have honed my expertise in affirming client centered therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy. I have experience working in hospital settings as a liaison counselor assisting patients and their families to navigate end-of-life challenges, serious mental illnesses, adjustment issues and crisis situations. I also have experience working in jail settings with individuals from all walks of lives facing challenges such as adjustment issues, serious mental illness, anxiety, depression, guilt, shame, remorse, addictions, suicide attempts, crisis and many more challenges.

Mary Elizabeth Vaughan

(she/her)

Mary Elizabeth Vaughan, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
30 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Mary Vaughan and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for the state of Florida. I have been in the mental health business for 35+ years. I love my work and that is the reason have stayed in it as long as I have. I am a military brat and I have moved around in Europe and many states. Before I begin to work with a client, I tell them some of my background. It is my opinion the client should know something about his/her counselor before we begin our work. I have had very successful results working with people who suffer from some kind of abuse ( either in childhood or as a young adult.) If abuse has occurred at most any age, the individual may come to me and tell me that they are experincing stress, depression, anxiety and/or panic attacks. Before beginning counseling, I inform the client that we will have a questioning and answer process. This allows the client and me to get to know each other a little better. Based on the information I gather about my client, we discuss what the client wants from their sessions. The individual and I work together as a team. In this process, the client gains a sense of self-esteem and a sense of control over their lives going forward in the future. Finding the right "fit" of counselor and client is key to a successful experience for the client. After the counselor gives the client some unique coping skills, the counselor asks the client if these skills might work for them. These coping skills are "Fluid" and can be modified and changed as we proceed in the counseling process.

Luella LaRoche

(she/her)

Luella LaRoche, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! My name is Luella, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Florida. I received my Masters degree at Barry University, specializing in Mental Health Counseling, Marriage, Couples and Family Counseling and Therapy. I specialize in helping individuals overcome challenges like depression, anxiety, ADHD, and life transitions. With a focus on women and men balancing personal and professional lives, I provide practical tools and emotional support to empower my clients to achieve a balanced and fulfilling life.

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.

Lindsey King

Lindsey King, LP - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LP
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a licensed Clinical Psychologist based out of Montana with licenses in Florida and Montana. I have 12 years of experience working with adults and groups. I have 7 years of experience working with a bariatric population. I work with adults who want to learn how to use nutrition and physical activity to improve their physical and mental well-being. I also use evidence-based therapies and techniques and teach my clients how to use these same techniques to improve their lives!

Olivia Caser

(she/her)

Olivia Caser, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Aloha, I’m Olivia—a Licenses Mental Health Counselor, military spouse, and yogi—devoted to helping others grow, heal, and thrive. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, & families navigating a wide range of mental health needs. My approach is holistic—I consider how your mind, body, relationships, and environment all play a role in your well-being. As someone who values the whole person, I integrate evidence-based approaches with holistic practices that support emotional, mental, and physical wellness. My style is compassionate, collaborative, and focused on creating a trusting space centered around you. In our work together, you can expect to gain insight, build resilience, and develop practical tools to move through life’s challenges.

Lily Greenan

Lily Greenan, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
20 years of experience
Virtual
I am a mental Health Counselor with 20 years of experience in working with people of all ages in many different circumstances. I have experience working with the child welfare systems, court advocacy, foster care, adoptions, children experiencing traumas, substance use and parenting, motivational interviewing, and helping those that are struggling with life circumstances that are wanting to improve their functioning.

Brenda Hodges

(she/her)

Brenda Hodges, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMHC
13 years of experience
Virtual
Brenda Hodges, M.A., M.S., is a licensed mental health professional with over 13 years of dedicated experience in therapeutic counseling. Holding dual master's degrees in Psychology and Rehabilitation Counseling, she brings a comprehensive approach to mental wellness, serving clients across Kentucky and Florida. Known for her warm, approachable demeanor, Brenda specializes in treating individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and survivors of violence and abuse. Her therapeutic style creates a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their challenges and work toward healing. Throughout her career, Brenda has helped individuals reclaim their lives and develop resilience in the face of trauma. Her dual licensure in Kentucky and Florida reflects her commitment to expanding access to quality mental health care across multiple communities. Brenda views her role as more than just a profession—it's a calling. She considers it both an honor and a privilege to guide clients through their healing journeys, drawing on her extensive education and experience to provide personalized, evidence-based support for each individual she serves.

Raven Viola

(she/her)

Raven Viola, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm so glad you're here. My name is Raven Viola, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with five years of experience supporting children, adults, and families through life’s challenges. I take a warm, compassionate, and collaborative approach, grounded in clients’ strengths, to help navigate anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and relational struggles. Whether we’re addressing generational patterns, emotional overwhelm, or strengthening family connections, my goal is to empower you with practical tools and deeper self-understanding so you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and lasting change.

Shirley Barthelemy

Shirley Barthelemy, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
12 years of experience
Virtual
My passion is to work with women and their families to help them discover new possibilities and purpose throw empowerment and self-discovery, despite what they may have experienced emotionally, mentally and physically. My goal to create an environment where they feel safe and accepted. My goal is to help women and their families learn how to navigate through life transitions and cope with change in a healthy way.

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 Anxiety?

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, Anxiety, is filtering therapists in Florida 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.