Optum Therapists in Illinois

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 78 verified therapists in Illinois 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

Chicago

Availability updated: 7/5/2025

Wayne Lyons

Wayne Lyons, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am originally from Florida and the Valedictorian of my high school who graduated and played football for Stanford University and The University of Michigan. After creating a nonprofit called Empire For The Youth, I have developed a curriculum for building wholistic life success and have worked in over 20 different schools throughout the united states. I work with all youth from ages 8-80 in helping them identify their life purpose and motivation for why they wake up and live every day. I help to mold daily habits to keep my clients living life full of HOPE...Having Only Positive Energy!

Sarah Langlois

(she/her)

Sarah Langlois, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
As a veteran and therapist, I bring a grounded, compassionate approach to helping others heal. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders and supporting women who are navigating the lasting effects of trauma. I work with individuals dealing with chronic worry, panic attacks, social anxiety, and specific phobias. I believe that healing is most powerful when it includes the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. I often integrate nature-based practices, movement like running or walking therapy, and conversations around nutrition and wellness into my work. I’ve seen how connecting with animals and spending time outdoors can offer grounding, clarity, and emotional balance, especially when processing deep pain or stress. My approach is rooted in evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques. These tools help clients better understand the roots of their anxiety and trauma responses while building practical strategies for long-term healing and relief. I offer a calm, supportive space where women feel seen, heard, and empowered. My focus is on helping you regain confidence, restore a sense of control, and move forward with greater strength and resilience. Together, we’ll work toward meaningful progress—and real, lasting change.

Rick Melton

(he/him)

Rick Melton, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Right now you are probably scared. You know something needs to change, but you don’t know where to start. You don't know if this works and you're at the point where you are afraid that nothing will work. We have all been there, me included. I understand and I do not judge. I have been a clinical therapist for the past 20 years. In my time I have worked with adolescents, adults, couples, geriatric patients, and LGBTIQQ individuals. What I have discovered in all my years of practice is that people all want the same things. We want to know that we are loved, valued and respected. I can promise you that when you speak to me you will be the only person that matters. You will not find judgement and you will not find blame. We will work together, at your own pace. I will help you find hope, unwavering support and the motivation to change the things in your life that you feel need to be changed. Together, we can improve your life. I'm here whenever you're ready.

Dr. Diana Thomas, PSY.D

Dr. Diana Thomas, PSY.D, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience helping multicultural clients explore strategies to manage mental health, relationship issues, and other struggles. You don’t have to face these feelings alone. We can explore your thoughts and emotions in a safe space, helping you take the first step towards a better future.

Tiffany Woods

Tiffany Woods, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have 11+ years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in different therapeutic settings who have various diagnoses and come from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds. I provide individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. I am also a certified life coach and I find great joy in working collaboratively with my clients and their families.

Maggie Krol

(she/her)

Maggie Krol, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Maggie Krol and I am glad we found each other. I am a compassionate and experienced therapist specializing in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based stress reduction and trauma-informed care. With over 15 years of experience, I provide a safe, confidential space for individuals seeking support with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, and personal growth. I graduated from the University of Iowa in 2005 and worked in a variety of small business and social service settings before moving to Florida for my Masters in Social Work. While going to school for my MSW, I worked in a variety of settings including hospitals, hospice, schools and one on one with children. In 2016 I returned to Illinois and in 2019, I received my Professional Educator License (PEL/Type 73) which allows me to work in school settings.

Britni Brand

(she/her)

Britni Brand, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I’m Britni! I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) and board certified art therapist in the state of Illinois. My passion is working with individuals and families who have experienced complex and developmental trauma. Survivors of childhood trauma need somebody who understands their unique and complex needs, including difficulties building trust with therapists when they learned from an early age that others were not to be trusted.

Elisa Holtman

Elisa Holtman, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Elisa Holtman. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Illinois. I received my Masters from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I have been primarily providing therapy in schools for the past 14 years and have been a Social Worker for 22 years. I have worked with children as young as 3 and adults in their nineties. The majority of my practice has been with 11-14 year old children/teens. Due to my experience in the school system, I have a unique perspective on what children/teens experience today in the school setting and can help guide a student and/or parents in navigating this world.

Dennis Keppeler

(he/him)

Dennis Keppeler, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
I began training to be a psychotherapist 15 years ago after having worked in publishing for many years. Becoming a Social Worker and helping others has always been a kind of calling for me, but it took a little while for me to arrive at my goal. I hope that that part of my story helps to prove that it is never too late to change or to pursue goals. I continue to integrate the things that I have learned through formal education and through my own experiences of life so that I am best able to help others who are experiencing distress and difficulties with navigating life. We all need additional support from time-to-time, especially given the complicated, fast-changing world we live in. My goal as a psychotherapist is to be a source of support and assistance as you develop insight into the difficulties you face and as you begin to develop strategies for change. Through interactive-therapy sessions, I help you to understand and clarify life’s challenges and I support you as you begin to make the changes that are needed to make progress towards your goals. I help my clients to discover and explore a positive path in therapy that they can then continue to follow as they pursue their goals and their lives independently.

Ellie Lemberis

(she/her)

Ellie Lemberis, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
I bring over 25 years of dedicated experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, specializing in working closely with children and their families. My career has spanned across dynamic environments including the Public School system and the Juvenile Justice system, where I've had the privilege of making a meaningful impact. With advanced degrees in both Social Work and Education, I am deeply committed to fostering positive outcomes and providing comprehensive support to those I serve.

Michael Parks

Michael Parks, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
19 years of experience
Virtual
I am a 47-year-old white Christian male that has been married for 29 years. I have three kids 26,19 and 16. I also have a spunky granddaughter who is five years old. I have a Master in Psych, as well as a MSW in Social Work. I also carry a CADC for work in Substance Abuse. I received my MSW from SIUC in Carbondale Illinois. I have been working in Mental health for the last 19 years in one way or another. I currently work at my day job with children 5-12, to assist with ADD, Anger, Sexual Abuse, grief etc. I have also worked with adults in the past. I am looking to be that calm helping hand in the storm that you are experiencing.

Amanda Berenguel Smolka

(she/her)

Amanda Berenguel Smolka, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been formally practicing therapy for 5+ years; though I've been an informal therapist for family and friends since my adolescent years. I work mostly with teens and families with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, by teaching DBT, CBT, ACT, and Executive Functioning skills. I have worked in an inpatient hospital and how work in a Partial Hospitalization Program while also doing private practice on the side. I am also a wife (since 2007) and mother (since 2011) so relationships, family dynamics, children with mental health concerns are also part of my daily life.

Alexandria Henson

(she/her)

Alexandria Henson, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Alex (she/her/hers). I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois. I received my Masters from Webster University (Saint Louis, MO) and have been practicing for 7+ years. I help young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, ADHD, support needs, and more. I love utilizing an eclectic approach because no one theory or modality works with all clients. My goal is to help you reach your goals and help you be the best version of yourself.

Casi Krall

(she/her)

Casi Krall, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I'm Casi Krall. I received my Master's degree in 2000 from National Louis University. I've worked in social services for 32 years altogether, working individually with therapy clients for 12 years. I believe that every dream — whether it comes to fruition or not — shapes who we are. In my work, I honor the beauty of our past aspirations, recognizing that even the dreams that didn't work out hold immense value. They teach us about our hopes, resilience and the unique paths we take toward growth. My approach to therapy is about exploring these dreams with curiosity and gratitude, helping you weave your past into a narrative that empowers your future. I view therapy as a collaborative journey of self-discovery and acceptance. Together we explore the tapestry of your experiences, both the fulfilled and the unfulfilled dreams, to uncover the wisdom they hold. I work with you to reframe setbacks as meaningful lessons and to transform old narratives into a source of empowerment for your future. By embracing your entire story with curiosity and compassion, we can build a foundation that honors your past while opening up new possibilities for growth and fulfillment

Amy Cabbage

(she/her)

Amy Cabbage, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Amy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages that have faced various life challenges in all stages of life. My passion is helping people in a way that provides them a sense of courage, empowerment, and motivation to make the changes that they want to live their best life!

Dalton Williams

Dalton Williams, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor based in Chicago. I have a Masters in Counseling Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I've been practicing for 5 years helping people improve their lives through mindful change and a supportive voice. I'm here to be your loudest cheerleader as you make necessary changes and work toward your life goals.

W Joseph (Joe) White

(he/him)

W Joseph (Joe) White, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCPC
26 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I’m Joe. With 26 years of experience across outpatient and hospital settings, I help individuals and families navigate life’s challenges with compassion and clarity. I specialize in working with teens and families during times of transition, using a collaborative approach that focuses on building insight, connection, and resilience. Together, we’ll work to understand what’s getting in the way and develop the tools you need to move forward. I’m here to support your growth every step of the way.

Debbie Levine

Debbie Levine, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who received my MSW from University of Illinois Chicago/Jane Addams School of Social Work. I have been working with individuals aged 13+ as well as couples in identifying their areas of concerns, developing a meaningful treatment plan and goals, and helping facilitate their journey at their pace. I believe therapy is your personal journey and I see my role as a facilitator, here to help you along the way.

Joseph jones

Joseph jones, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
I have worked with children and adults, facilitating individual and group therapeutic sessions. Building from over 15 years of experience working as a social worker in various settings, including but not limited to, domestic violence shelters, social service agencies and departments of children and family services. I have worked with court ordered clients. Clients that seek services voluntary are also welcome.

Dr. Andrew Kutemeier

(he/him)

Dr. Andrew Kutemeier, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
17 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a clinical social worker with experience treating children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I graduated with my masters degree in social work (MSW) in 2008, earned by clinical licensure (LCSW) in 2010, and doctorate in clinical social work (DSW) in 2016. I believe that every client deserves a treatment approach created to meet their own particular needs and symptoms, and my role, as a competent practitioner, is to craft that treatment approach that maximizes the client's strengths, reduces/alleviates their current symptoms, and offers new patterns of engaging with their life and the world around them that prevent relapse into old and destructive patterns of behavior.

Lisa Bicket

(she/her)

Lisa Bicket, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
24 years of experience
Virtual
I am a social worker with over 20 years of experience working with clients from infants (support to parents) to geriatrics. I believe that our thoughts are powerful to change our behavior. We often have been taught to "just change our behavior" and then we get down on ourselves when we can't. But if we work on changing our thoughts then we have much more success in changing our behavior. This can be very helpful for individuals with anxiety, depression, grief, personality challenges, trauma, couples, etc.

Eleni Kaitson

(she/her)

Eleni Kaitson, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a licensed clinical social worker based in Illinois. I received my Masters from the University of Illinois and have been practicing for 4 years. I have a deep passion for working with children, teens and adults. I have experience as a school social worker in the school setting and private practice setting. I am certified in CBITS (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - Specialized in Trauma). I have treated a range of issues spanning the life-span including depression, anxiety, family-of-origin issues, and life transitions. I am also passionate about working with individuals who have struggled with relationships, low self-esteem/body image issues, and bullying.

Fallon Garden

(she/her)

Fallon Garden, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I received my Master's degree from the University of Phoenix and have been practicing for 4 years. I help people of all ages struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma become the best versions of themselves. I utilize the CBT theoretical approach (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), so I assist client to connect their negative thoughts and feelings to their past and present behaviors.

Tina Gaskell

Tina Gaskell, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCPC
25 years of experience
Virtual
🧠 Hey, I'm Tina — and I'm glad you're here. I'm a psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience providing therapy in person and online. If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck in your head, or like you're constantly second-guessing yourself... you're not alone. Whether you're a teen navigating school and social pressure, a young adult figuring out life direction, or someone who's overwhelmed and just tired of carrying the weight of anxiety, depression, or ADHD — I’ve got you. 🌿 How I help My approach blends evidence-based tools (like CBT, DBT, ACT, and mindfulness) with the latest insights from neuroscience — because when you understand how your brain works, change becomes way more possible. Together, we’ll untangle what’s getting in the way of your confidence, motivation, and peace of mind. I specialize in: - Anxiety & overthinking - Depression & lack of motivation - ADHD & focus struggles - Low self-esteem & self-doubt - Life transitions & emotional overwhelm - Relationships and social support 💬 What therapy with me feels like Think of our sessions like a mix of real talk, science-backed strategies, and personalized support. I’m not here to “fix” you — because you’re not broken. I’m here to walk alongside you as you rediscover your strength, your clarity, and your calm. 📍 Who I work with I offer virtual therapy for: - Teens (13+) - Young adults - Adults of all ages Based in Illinois and fully online, so you can show up in your comfiest clothes with zero commute stress.

Dena Sidmore-Seyer

(she/her)

Dena Sidmore-Seyer, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm Dena (she/her). I have 15 years experience and truly love my vocation! I enjoy empowering individuals to achieve their goals and live their best lives. I believe everyone has the ability to heal, sometimes we all need a little help. I am passionate about the power of therapy to aid people in living their best, most authentic lives. I live on the tristate border and provide remote therapy for persons in Illinois and Iowa. An Iowa native, I spent about a decade living and working in SoCal and Phoenix before returning to the Midwest to be with my (now) husband and step kids. Yes, I left sunny San Diego, in December, for the snowy Midwest! The things we’ll do for love! I have personally benefitted greatly from therapy. I am Bi/queer, have ADHD, and several physical disabilities, all of which were diagnosed after college. Therapy helped me develop much needed coping skills so I could be successful in grad school and beyond. Therapy also helped me with the intense stressors related to being a young professional during the Great Recession. I continue to utilize therapy as part of my self care routine. If you are coping with symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self worth, or concerns related to ADHD or chronic health conditions, I would love the opportunity to work with you. I would love to help you to achieve a present no longer overshadowed by past traumas, negative self talk, or uncontrolled anxiety.

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Illinois rather than a city like Chicago?

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

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 Child or Adolescent?

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, Child or Adolescent, is filtering therapists in Illinois 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.