EAP:United Healthcare Optum Therapists in Georgia

Utilizing mental health support through UnitedHealthcare/Optum’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can provide you with convenient and affordable access to care. With 547 verified therapists in Georgia who accept UnitedHealthcare/Optum EAP, you have options across therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and supportive counseling to help address work-related stress, personal challenges, or life transitions. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is currently open to new clients and has availability in the coming weeks, ensuring timely access to quality, EAP-covered care tailored to your needs.

Find therapists near you in

Atlanta

Availability updated: 7/9/2025

Michael James

Michael James, LCSW - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
I am not your typical therapist as I started my career in finance and have an undergrad in Business. While I could succeed in this path, I did not find meaning in it. I see becoming a therapist as a calling and not a vocation. I first worked in acute mental health as an advocate, then as an addiction counselor, and eventually after receiving my MSW as a dual diagnosis therapist. I have much empathy for the hurting and have always been drawn to those who have suffered from mental illness, addiction, and the effects of trauma. As such, I have been a mental health advocate, addiction therapist, mental health therapist, trauma therapist, psychiatric director, and behavioral health COO. I feel like I have seen all levels of behavioral health care and use that wealth of experience, resources, and specialized training to help others. I believe that compassion and empathy are keys to change and try my very best to meet you where you are. I also value diversity and have worked with a wide range of the problems that individuals and couples struggle with. Most of all, I am not a respecter of persons and have worked with the homeless to the CEOs of major corporations. I feel that we are all just humans and that we all struggle with similar challenges and problems. I have also worked with a great diversity of people from very diverse cultures and many international clients.

Ellen Thomas

Ellen Thomas, LMFT - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LMFT
11 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am Ellen Thomas, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Macon, Georgia. I did my undergrad at Auburn University and completed my masters at Mercer University. I have been counseling children, adolescents, adults, couples, and groups for over ten years now. I have mainly utilized telehealth for the past 4 years and absolutely love it. I love collaborating with my clients to achieve their goals and alleviate the symptoms causing distress.

Lee Maxwell

Lee Maxwell, LCSW - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
16 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Lee Maxwell; a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of Maximum Wellness, LLC. I have lived and worked in Metro Atlanta for over two decades. I grew up in rural Georgia; born to older parents who instilled in me the value of connection with others and treating others as I would want to be treated. I gained my passion for working in Geriatrics from my mother, who, on most Sundays throughout my childhood, would take me along with her to visit a local nursing home. I obtained my undergraduate degree in Sociology from Georgia Southern University; followed by a graduate degree in Clinical Social Work from Savannah State University. I have been working in the field of mental health care for 25 years; 16 of which have been dedicated to providing psychotherapy services; primarily to a geriatric population. After working in senior living communities throughout the pandemic, I decided to afford myself the opportunity to work with a younger population; which I found to be refreshing and resulted in opening up my private practice to include services for all adults over the age of 18yo. I have been professionally licensed in the state of Georgia since 2009.

Juanessa Booker

(she/her)

Juanessa Booker, LPC - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
I am passionate about humans! This includes ALL folx, adults, children, couples, and families. I am dedicated to advocating for mental health and wellness for individuals of all backgrounds, focusing on women’s health through all the stages of life, people of color, and LGBTQ+ communities. As a therapist, I offer specialized support that empowers clients with the thinking patterns, mindsets, and the skills they need to succeed in a safe, non-judgmental space to explore and process life’s challenges. My clients describe me as warm, friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging.

Carmen Shepard

(she/her)

Carmen Shepard, LPC - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
35 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Georgia. I have a Master's in Community Counseling and returned later to obtain another Master's/Certification in School Counseling. I have worked for many years, starting my career with Children and Adolescents in Community Mental Health. I moved forward spending many years with Developmental Disabilities/Babies Can't Wait, and Autism. From here I became a Middle School Counselor for several years and Community Counselor. I have remained in the community since.

Christina Sanders

(she/her)

Christina Sanders, LPC - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia, I am dedicated to empowering individuals facing anxiety and depression while teaching essential coping skills. I create a safe space for exploration and growth, utilizing a warm, client-centered approach and evidence-based techniques, including CBT, DBT, and mindfulness practices. Together, we will embark on a journey toward a brighter, more fulfilling future and enhanced life satisfaction.

Brandy Mohn

Brandy Mohn, LCSW - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and certified clinical trauma professional (CCTP-II) based in Georgia. I specialize in integrating expressive arts with evidence-based methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Somatic approaches to help individuals explore, heal, and grow. My trauma-informed practice goes beyond traditional talk therapy, incorporating mindfulness, body-based techniques, creative expression, and existential inquiry to foster self-awareness and meaningful connections. Let’s work together to create a life of purpose and transformation.

Judith Ashworth

(she/her)

Judith Ashworth, LCSW - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
24 years of experience
Virtual
Hiya! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Georgia. I received my Masters from Georgia State University and have been practicing since 1999. I recently retired from the Wellstar Hospital System where I provided therapy, evaluations and case management on the behavioral health unit and in the emergency departments. I offer LCSW supervision to master's level clinicians. I also execute Guardianship Evaluations for the probate court systems. I help adults ages 18 through to 'senior-hood' struggling with a variety of stressful situations which may cause them anxiety in all it's forms.

Kendall Sentimore

(he/him)

Kendall Sentimore, LCSW - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
I would like to describe myself as a guy who likes to collaborate with clients to reach their goals and help guide them to overcome barriers that are stopping them to achieve them. I currently work as a social worker at the VA and meet with veterans who are trying to maintain housing, while also managing mental health and substance abuse issues. Through out my career as a social worker, I've dealt with at risk youths, inmates, and substance abuse, and homeless population. I've come to realize that a lot of people have one thing in common, they all would like to be treated with respect and allow them to have their autonomy. My great listening and problem solving skills with my clients help them to come to solutions to their own problems. That's what a lot of my clients can expect is a person who ask open-ended questions to help them consider things that they normally haven't and challenge their thoughts or desires versus their actions in life.

Sarah Shine

(she/her)

Sarah Shine, LCSW - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida and Georgia (LCSW) and Licensed Independent Social Work Clinical Practice in South Carolina (LISW-CP) with six years of experience in the field. I received my Masters in Social Work from Samford University and my Bachelors in Psychology at Auburn University (War Eagle!). I help adults who may find themselves "haunted" by past experiences find freedom from those experiences in order to move forward with the life they deeply desire but have struggled to accept or make for themselves. You will find that I am personable, jovial, humorous, and straight forward. Just want to learn some skills and connect with others? Check out my group therapy options: www.luminouscounselingjourney.com/services

Lanee Sambou

(she/her)

Lanee Sambou, LPC - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I’m Lanee’ Sambou, a Licensed Professional Counselor committed to helping individuals and couples navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions with compassion and clarity. My approach is holistic, collaborative, and rooted in the belief that each person has the innate capacity for healing and growth. I integrate evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches to support clients in building meaningful lives aligned with their values.

Christopher Karware

Christopher Karware, LPC - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
I am a dedicated counselor licensed both in Massachusetts and in the state of Georgia practicing for over a decade. My approach entails understanding your areas of need, together we work on your goals or outcomes, resolve the goals and empower your resilience. I have endeavored to improve my art of counseling over the last decade. In treatment, my quest to improve is evident by the need to make sure I understand your areas of need, in order to help you resolve and empower you to actualize your goals.

Suzie Amacker

Suzie Amacker, LPC - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hi I am Suzie Amacker. I help people who struggle with anxiety and relationships to feel a lot less anxious. Are you always a little bit afraid that an anxiety attack is right around the corner? Have you been hit with surprise anxiety more times than you can count? I know exactly how you feeling, the pounding chest, the shortness of breath, the feeling that the walls are closing in on you. Attacks can be terrifying and I don't want you to suffer from them anymore. You have made a good choice in choosing to get help. Through therapy, I hope to provide a lasting life-changing experience which will result in you feeling stronger and more satisfied with yourself and your relationships. Holistic practices can reduce anxiety tremendously and I look forward to teaching you tools to take your life back. It is important that your know you don't have to be alone in this journey. I specialize in helping clients feel better, improve functioning and improve the different relationships in their lives. I am results oriented with a kind and empathic, yet direct approach. If you are motivated and willing to work toward your goals, we can work together to get there.

Tamara Newton

(she/her)

Tamara Newton, LPC - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
I'm Tamara Newton a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) serving the State of Georgia, and founder of Newbridge Counseling & Consulting Services LLC. Feel free to explore our website and then make your appointment to begin your journey of healing, because you deserve to have mental, and emotional peace and joy. I am a native New Yorker who earned my Bachelor of Science in Human Services and my Master of Science in Counseling. I have extensive experience working in community mental health and currently work with individuals of diverse backgrounds, cultures, and demographics. My approach is person-centered because everyone has different situations they need to work through. You hold the power to stop hurting and start healing and once you reach out for help, I will help guide you on your path of change and recovery. I'll guide you toward reconnecting and reclaiming any loss of positive self-image through the realization of your strengths and we'll celebrate all your small and significant measures of progress. So ready, set, let's get started!

Sakina Huffman

Sakina Huffman, LMFT - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for more than 10 yrs. My motivation and passion is with healing others who are experiencing life struggles and are seeking assistance with coping with life stressors such as: anger management, relational problems, and conflict resolution just to name a few. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Couple Therapy.

Dr. Stephanie McDaniel

Dr. Stephanie McDaniel, LPC - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LPC
38 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! Welcome to therapy. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a PhD and I earned my Masters from Shorter University in Rome, Ga. and my Doctorate online from Argosy University. My career began in 1986 and I have held many roles and worked in many settings i.e., inpatient psych programs, outpatient psych programs, ER settings, colleges, Community Service Boards, State psychiatric facilities and more. I am working on a book entitled "Parenting Styles of African American Fathers". Two of my long term goals are: to become a John Maxwell Certified Speaker and to teach undergrad psychology classes. I will bring my A' game to the therapy session and I challenge you to do the same.

Shamshad Ahmed

(she/her)

Shamshad Ahmed, LPC - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
25 years of experience
Virtual
Dr Ahmed served as an educator, and trained students in the master’s and Doctoral Programs in clinical skills. She served on several Professional Boards. published her scholarly work in reputed Journals; presented at International and National Conferences; received several grants for Collaborative Research. I specialize in the areas of Stress Management, Relationship Issues, Conflict Management and Self Esteem Issues. Dr Ahmed’s Theoretical Orientations are very Eclectic/Integrative: Cognitive Behavior Family Therapy, Solution Focus Family Therapy, Strategic Family, Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy. Existential and Experiential.

Amber Hammontree

(she/her)

Amber Hammontree, LPC - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
21 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome to my profile! I am a LPC in Georgia. I received my Master of Arts in clinical psychology from Argosy University. I have over 21 years of experience. I am also a Certified Case Manager and have a deep understanding of the healthcare system. I specialize in empowering individuals through evidence-based modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. I customize sessions to suit your specific needs. I am dedicated to helping you cultivate a toolbox of strategies for lasting growth and well-being.

Tara Tolbert

Tara Tolbert, LCSW - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
(CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW COUPLES.)I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20+ years of experience in my field and 13 years of experience as an independent practitioner. I provide holistic counseling to individuals, couples, & families. I subscribe to both traditional and new age approaches to help you on your path to transformation and healing. I take pride in offering services that help clients from a strength perspective. I create a safe space in which clients are able to express themselves without judgment. The focus is not diagnoses for the purpose of billing, but to help the client discover a higher sense of self awareness and to formulate a plan that enables them to tap into their true potential, embarking on a journey to live life to the fullest. I love working with individuals with a diverse background. While I address a host of concerns as it pertains to mental health, my specialties include mood disorders, anxiety, relational issues, life transitions, and high conflict parenting. Also, I am LGBT friendly. If you value confidentiality, flexibility, empathy, non-judgment and dependability as part of your mental health wellness, you've found the right therapist. For your convenience, I am currently offering evening and Sunday sessions.

Jamie Brown

(she/her)

Jamie Brown, LCSW - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in the treatment of trauma. I have experience working with adults who are survivors of complex trauma and suffer from depression, anxiety, and addiction. My approach is strength-based and client-centered with modalities from Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I believe most people stagnate in change because they are afraid and don’t know what to do. Many clients have told me they “feel like they are going crazy.” I am here to tell you that you are not crazy. Your mind and body are reacting to a traumatic event, and many things you do to cope with that event are to help you deal with the trauma, “normal responses to an abnormal situation.” My approach is simple: break down the problem into parts and gradually work on “unpeeling the layers.” This process is not easy and is often painful. However, it will be worth it because you will experience a freedom you never knew was possible. I want you to learn to thrive and live a full life instead of just surviving daily. I graduated from Berry College with my Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 2003 and Kennesaw State University with my Master’s in Social Work in 2014. I have 20 years of mental health experience in inpatient and outpatient settings.

Tiffany Griffin

Tiffany Griffin, LCSW - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello I am Tiffany and I am a LCSW. I have worked with many clients of all ages. My goal is to help you deal with different areas in your life and to help you get back on track. I believe that everyone can change and everyone can learn and grow for the better. Let’s get started with improving your life!!

Shannon Davidson

Shannon Davidson, LCSW - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 8 years of experience in the mental health field. I have a passion for helping adolescents and adults find their voice and sense of hope. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, social anxiety, and low self-esteem. I meet clients where they are in life and come alongside them in their journey. I utilize dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), mindfulness, and trauma-informed care (TIC). Life brings all types of challenges and everyone deserves a voice to tell their story. Your story is important and you deserve the space you occupy. I would love to hear your story and help you write the next chapters with the tools and skills you need to cope with life's challenges. If you are ready to do the work, schedule an appointment with me today.

Dr. Jennifer Jenkins

(she/her)

Dr. Jennifer Jenkins, LPC - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
17 years of experience
Virtual
Happiness is a tough concept. We all want & desire to be happy, but do we need to be happy all the time? And what if we could be less sad? Or mad? Or ecstatic one day & miserable the next? Life is challenging, but we have to allow ourselves to find the hope and practice grace along the way. I am Dr. Jennifer Jenkins, LPC and I am a counselor, let me help you... find the hope on your terms and allow ourselves to practice grace and humor to get through this crazy place called life. Let me help you on your journey to be all the emotions and maybe a little less sad going forward.

Austin Haedicke

Austin Haedicke, LPC - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
I believe my role as a therapist is similar to both a detective and a tour guide in helping you navigate and explore who you are, where you've been, who you want to become, and where you want to go. I am also a personal trainer, certified nutrition coach, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt, providing separate services in those areas as well.

Steve Leland

(he/him)

Steve Leland, LPC - Georgia Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
25 years of experience
Virtual
I'm currently accepting new adult & adolescent clients(i.e., ages 16 and up) for individual counseling sessions, not family, couples, or marital counseling. I offer some evening and weekend hours. I have been successful in helping people make positive changes for 25+ years. I welcome you to join me in addressing the issues that lead to you seeking assistance. I look forward to helping you achieve your therapeutic and/or life goals. I attempt to provide a relaxing, non-judgmental environment to allow people to be heard and understood, so positive change, healing and/or growth can begin. My style is client-focused, adapting to your needs and goals and ensuring your therapeutic goals are reasonable and achievable. I have been a National Board Certified Counselor(NCC) since 2000, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor(LMHC in FL) since 2002, and a Licensed Professional Counselor(LPC in GA) since 2021. I help people who are dealing with depressive symptoms; anxiety; mood swings; life stressors/stress management; anger management; frustration tolerance; coping, & social skills; adjustment issues; relationship issues; grief/loss issues; parenting & behavior modification skills; mindfulness; work/life balance; and life enhancement; amongst others. I attempt to facilitate positive change by assisting people in identifying the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are keeping them stuck(and/or preventing them from moving forward) in order to overcome struggles/obstacles and work towards reaching their full potential. Having worked in community mental health and social services field since 1992, I am seasoned in providing adults and adolescents with compassionate, contemporary and effective mental health counseling services. Using an eclectic and comprehensive approach tailored to the needs of each person and techniques based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT), Rogerian/Person-Centered Experiential Therapy(PCET), REBT(Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy(DBT), Solution-Focused, and behavioral schools of counseling, I have demonstrated expertise in addressing a wide variety of mental health issues.

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Georgia rather than a city like Atlanta?

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

Will my therapist take EAP:UnitedHealthcare/Optum?

Yes! If you use EAP:UnitedHealthcare/Optum you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have EAP:UnitedHealthcare/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.