Optum Therapists in Florida

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 171 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: 7/4/2025

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.

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.

Alexandra Newlon

(she/her)

Alexandra Newlon, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
7 years of experience
Virtual
I genuinely believe in the power of therapy. So much can be improved upon through supportive connections, empathy and the general resilience of the human condition. I have a vested curiosity in the lived experiences of my clients and a commitment to their growth and goals. Change itself is inevitable, and at times can feel insurmountable, that said together we can work to direct the trajectory of where those changes may take you. A bit about me; I am Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have approximately 6 years of clinical experience. I am a born and raised Floridian - from St. Petersburg, FL - however, I spent much of my young adult life traveling and moving about (Miami, Jacksonville, Gainesville, Costa Rica, New Orleans and now back in the Tampa Bay Area). I received my Bachelors degree in Social Work, with a minor in Spanish, from the University of North Florida. In 2020, I graduated from Jacksonville University with a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. During my graduate study, I completed clinical internship (1500+ hours of direct client work) with a Hospice agency as a bereavement counselor. Post-graduation, I was hired by that same agency and counseled surviving loved ones of Hospice patients through their grief journey and efforts to adjust. Surviving loss is manageable and grief therapy can help with visualizing a more hopeful future that honors your loved ones.

Abey Adams-Adasah

Abey Adams-Adasah, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am a compassionate and client-centered therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, life transitions, and emotional challenges with evidence-based approaches like CBT, DBT, and Christian counseling for those seeking a faith-based perspective. My dream clients are individuals who are ready to work on self-discovery, emotional regulation, and personal growth, whether they are struggling with stress, self-doubt, or relationship issues. I create a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space where clients can develop practical coping skills, build resilience, and regain a sense of control and confidence in their lives.

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.

Kristian Battenfield

(he/him)

Kristian Battenfield, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
4 years of experience
Virtual
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. I want to all individuals to grow and evolve through their struggles with mental health by changing their maladaptive behaviors. I am a graduate from FIU who works at Aventura Hospital in a crisis stabilization unit. I offer a challenging yet empathetic approach to help you move out of your comfort zone and towards growth.

Sam Morrison

Sam Morrison, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
With a deep passion for breaking the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health, I have dedicated the last nine years to assisting individuals who grapple with the complex interplay of mental health issues and underlying substance abuse. I’ve witnessed how the societal stigma often conceals the very real barriers individuals face in their daily lives. My mission is to empower them with coping skills and strategies that allow them to embrace a life of recovery and resilience. As a therapist, I focus on guiding patients towards building essential skills to overcome their challenges. I believe that mental health issues come in myriad forms, and it is our duty to provide support, unburdened by negative stereotypes and judgment. Together, let’s shatter the silence and create a path towards hope, recovery and well-being.

Kathryn Pavcik

(she/her)

Kathryn Pavcik, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! My name is Kathryn and I'm a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Florida. I graduated from Troy University with my degree in clinical mental health counseling. My aim is to listen closely to what brings you to therapy, provide a safe and supportive space to explore personal challenges, and adapt our work together to suit your needs and goals.

Barbara Hayes

Barbara Hayes, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
40 years of experience
Virtual
Hi my name is Barbara Hayes but I am called Bobbie I’ve been working in the field of mental health for over 40 years and I am blessed that every day when I get up to go to work I do something that I really love. Doing therapy can be very difficult at times and I know that can be scary for somebody to decide to change their of life. My goal is to help that become easier and smoother for you. And walk alongside you while you do it.

Dr. Markyse Bernadin

Dr. Markyse Bernadin, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
You’ve achieved a lot—but lately, it feels like something is holding you back. Maybe you’re overwhelmed by emotions you can’t explain, or quietly carrying a weight from your past that no longer fits the life you’re building. High-functioning doesn’t always mean fulfilled—and you’re ready to change that. I help ambitious, self-aware individuals break free from emotional blocks, old narratives, and burnout cycles. Whether you feel stuck in overthinking, disconnected from your joy, or like you’re constantly pushing but never arriving, our work together will get to the root of it. We’ll release what no longer serves you, recalibrate your inner compass, and build the mindset and habits that align with the life you actually want to live. Think: deeper self-trust, emotional clarity, and the confidence to show up fully—no more shrinking, no more autopilot. You’re not here to settle. You’re here to evolve. Let’s unlock the version of you that’s been waiting on the other side of this growth.

Claudia Nichols

Claudia Nichols, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am Claudia Nichols. I received my Masters Degree from the University of Alabama and have been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for 20 years. During this time, I had the opportunity to assess and treat individuals of all ages who were struggling with many different stressors. The primary focus of my practice at present is to assist clients with identifying areas for change so that they can reduce negative symptoms and improve his or her quality of life.

Cynthia Wells

Cynthia Wells, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
7 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Florida. I received my masters in Marriage, Family and Therapy from Liberty University. I have been practicing for 7 years. I am passion about helping families, couples and individuals struggling with relational conflicts, anxiety, depression and childhood trauma. I have worked as an behavioral mental health therapist at an inpatient psychiatric hospital for over 4 years uslng trauma- focused acute interventions for patients and their families. I have worked in a faith- based residential men's substance abuse recovery treatment facility for over 3 years helping men rediscovery and regain their identity and productive place back in their society. Assist men with rebuilding spiritual, physical, mental/emotional, social/relational, and financial. I have worked passionately at a family counseling facility helping families, individuals, and groups resolve conflicts and develop positive family connections.

Aquilla Simmons

(she/her/hers)

Aquilla Simmons, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
With 22 years of experience, I’ve worked with people where life happens—in their homes, at their schools, and in their communities. I’ve helped children, teens, and adults navigate life’s toughest moments, from managing ADHD, anxiety, and depression to handling relationships, big transitions, and everyday stressors. Life can feel overwhelming at times, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. I know that mental health isn’t one-size-fits-all. Everyone’s journey is different, and what works for one person might not work for another. That’s why I take a client-centered, individualized approach that meets you where you are. I incorporate CBT, DBT, Somatic techniques and practical strategies to help you gain insight, develop coping skills, and create real, lasting change.

Susie Switzer

Susie Switzer, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
17 years of experience
Virtual
I work extensively with people to assist them with improving relationships, work to improve management of anxiety, anger management while improving self-confidence, and self-esteem. I also work with depressive-based symptoms and teach coping and improved thought processes to create a lifelong change to your ability to meet your needs. Together, we will identify what's not working and get you back to a baseline that works for you. I work holistically, my therapy provides tools to support needs within yourself, your relationships, and your family dynamic. If you're dealing with overwhelming emotions and feelings, hurtful relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. I also have many years experience working with people with Autism as well as all Applied Behavioral modalities. When a person is seeking therapy, this is a huge leap of faith towards asking for help that I deeply respect and admire. I will provide a non-judgmental, compassionate space for you to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I will always meet you “where you are” and provide strength-based solutions through evidence-based techniques so you can overcome and move forward in your life. Let's get started!

JC Caro

(she/her)

JC Caro, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

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

Sunshine Wilder

(she/her)

Sunshine Wilder, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
21 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Sunshine Wilder and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida. In 2004, I graduated with a Master’s degree in Social Work and have been working for the past 19 years with children, teens, and adults in various settings such as child welfare, specialized therapeutic foster care, and outpatient therapy. I have experience working with individuals with a wide range of needs such as stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, depression, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attachment issues, and Bipolar Disorder.

Dr. Clay Connelly

(he/him)

Dr. Clay Connelly, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Clay. I am here to help you better yourself as a whole, through an integrated therapeutic process. I have extensive experience in helping clients with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, anger, marital problems, burnout, insomnia, and many more. We'll address the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. Seeking therapy can be intimidating, but if you're reading this, you've already made a great decision in the first step of your journey of healing. Let's work on this together! Looking forward to helping you grow, Clay

E Laverne Williams

(she/her)

E Laverne Williams, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
28 years of experience
Virtual
I am a mental health clinician. I have worked in the field of mental health for 29 years. I am a retired public school educator/administrator, 48 years! I am an American Red Cross volunteer, 13 years. I volunteer in Disaster Mental Health, Services to the Armed Forces, Yellow Ribbons, as well as facilitate Reconnection Workshops for Deployed and Re-Deployed soldiers and veterans. I have been successful and quite effective in working with Addictions, Individuals, Couples, Families, school issues, Christian Counseling, and personality disorders. I enjoy my work in each of these entities. I love, love sharing in the growth and development of my clients!

Makisha Brown-Harp

(she/her)

Makisha Brown-Harp, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Whether it be therapy, counseling, guidance, coaching, or the need for connection that influenced your search for services, I’m glad you did it and am looking forward to assisting you as you create your version of a life worth living. For many people and for different reasons, it’s hard to say you want help much less take the steps to find it and I commend you, genuinely for taking the initiative to do so. With your perseverance and my understanding of behavior change, insight development, and skill building; you will be successful in achieving your goals. My approach to improving mental health is aided by a thorough understanding of acute, chronic, and situational mental illnesses as well as experience in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of diverse populations including working professionals, LGBTQIA, students, and communities of color. I specialize in the treatment of personality disorders, trauma, and suicide prevention. I am certified in several psychotherapeutic modalities, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Processing Therapy. I also utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Mindfulness practices. I have a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Florida State University and a Master of Social Work from Saint Leo University. I have gained my current knowledge from working with community, private, medical, and school mental health services. Looking forward to working with you. I am currently accepting new clients. If for some reason you can't book an appointment or schedule, please call the new client booking team at (646) 687 9932. If you would like to work with myself and need to request sliding scale information, please book your first appointment via cash pay. Appointments are paid for following completion. Sliding scale fees can be discussed prior to this.

Teri Dahley

(she/her)

Teri Dahley, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMHC
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am Teri, a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and licensed substance abuse treatment practitioner (LSATP) with extensive experience in behavioral health, having worked in the field since 2018. My dedication lies in supporting individuals who are navigating mental health challenges and substance use disorders. I believe in the power of education, helping my clients understand how their behaviors and past experiences shape their present circumstances and future potential. My approach to therapy is rooted in empowerment. I work collaboratively with my clients to uncover the how, when, what, and why of their struggles, so they can better understand the underlying causes of their issues. By addressing these root causes, I believe individuals can begin to break the cycle of unhealthy behaviors and make meaningful changes in their lives. If you are struggling with emotional or behavioral challenges, I am here to help you gain clarity, learn new coping strategies, and create a path toward lasting change. Together, we can work toward understanding and healing so you can live a more fulfilling life.

Tiffany Arnold

Tiffany Arnold, LCSW - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am Tiffany. Do you struggle with those pesky racing thoughts, where it seems your brain will not shut off? Negative thoughts? Feelings of hopelessness? A feeling of not being good enough or unworthy? Do you struggle with relationships? whether it be personal or work-related. Are you unsatisfied with your job, home life, relationship, or yourself in general and want to make changes? I am a licensed clinical social worker, and I help clients work toward overcoming battles of Anxiety, Depression, and related mental health disorders by using evidence-based techniques as management skills that address your specific struggles. Help Me, Help You... That's what I like to say because this is your life, your goals! Now let's go chase after them together :)

Vaaseen Richards

(she/her)

Vaaseen Richards, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMHC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome my name is Vaaseen Richards and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based out of Florida. I am a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP) and Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP) dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals who have experienced trauma to heal and thrive. I utilize evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Traumatic Incident Reduction Therapy to help clients process their experiences, reduce distressing symptoms, and reclaim a sense of safety and empowerment in their lives. My goal is to support you on your journey toward healing and help you rediscover strength and resilience within yourself.

Danièle Trevathan

(she/her)

Danièle Trevathan, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
20 years of experience
Virtual
Starting therapy can be a difficult process. I make this process as easy for you as possible. Therapy starts with us getting to know each other and for me to understand your needs for treatment. I want to make sure that I can meet your requirements and help you work on what you came into treatment for or find you someone who can. As a therapist, I help you become the best version of yourself. My job is to give you the skills to manage difficulties when they occur. Situations occur that you may not feel equipped to handle. Let me support you to help you get through and gain insight about yourself and your ability to handle things in the future. I provide a comfortable and non-intrusive environment. I work with people to help them develop a strong sense of self, learn to have healthier relationships, learn mindfulness, distress tolerance skills, and other ways to regulate their emotions, reduce anxiety, and learn to be less impulsive. If you have moments when you think you should reach out for help or support, even if the thoughts are fleeting, I encourage you to reach out to me for support.

Guillermo Arauz

(he/him)

Guillermo Arauz, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
10 years of experience
Virtual
I'm Guillermo Arauz, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience. I specialize in guiding individuals through challenges such as trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, familial issues, and parenting challenges. My eclectic therapeutic approach creates a warm, non-judgmental space for exploration and resolution of issues rooted in childhood traumas, lifelong patterns, and recent life changes. Passionate about empowering individuals to live in peace and joy, I customize my counseling style to suit your unique needs, providing support on your journey toward growth and the best version of yourself.

Anne Marie Raynor

Anne Marie Raynor, LMHC - Florida Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMHC
15 years of experience
Virtual
Are you struggling emotionally, mentally, or with life in general? If you're reading this, you must be ready for a change. The first step in making a change is acknowledging a need for one. It takes courage and strength to seek out a therapist, and I will help you feel comfortable and supported in whatever it is you want to work on. I can help you change things in a positive direction and help you be a happier and more satisfied person. I can help you cope with the ups and downs of life and handle them in positive and productive ways. I collaborate with my clients to find the best treatment for them. I offer individual counseling for teenagers and adults dealing with difficult life issues such as depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, as well as Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD. I help empower my clients to change their negative thinking patterns to a more positive, productive way of thinking to help them feel stronger, safer, happier and more confident. I offer a warm, safe, environment free of judgement and completely confidential. Please let me utilize my counseling techniques and compassionate outlook to help you organize your thoughts, find and utilize your strengths, and get you to where you want to be in your life. Getting another perspective can make all the difference.

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 Personality Disorders?

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, Personality Disorders, 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.