Optum Therapists in Illinois

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 195 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.

Vanessa Torres Garcia

(she/her)

Vanessa Torres Garcia, LP - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LP
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with almost 10 years of experience working with diverse populations within a variety of settings including hospitals, forensic/correctional facilities, underserved communities, and private practice. My education includes a formal component of Neuropsychological rehab. I specialize in working with adults/elders experiencing adjustment issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, relational difficulties or cognitive deficits. As a dynamic/motivated professional, I like to see each day as a new opportunity to challenge and improve myself. Traveling to different countries, cooking and dancing are always part of my journey of personal growth and appreciation.

Lucero Garcia

(she/her)

Lucero Garcia, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Latinx bilingual and bicultural psychotherapist. I have a master’s degree in social work from the Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois at Chicago. My expertise has centered on providing therapeutic care in inpatient settings and community mental health centers with a focus on crisis and trauma interventions. I am trained in mindfulness-based approaches, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, parent training and Motivational Interviewing. In therapy, I address patient's concerns which include depression, anxiety, domestic violence and complex trauma. My approach to care is to create a safe and comfortable environment for all of my clients and I believe individuals can excel when addressing their symptoms from a systematic, family and individual approach. I began practicing 9 years ago at a community mental health center with survivors of domestic violence. Thereafter, I worked with adolescents experiencing depression and anxiety. The next five years I spent my time working with pediatric patients in the Autism spectrum addressing behavioral concerns. In this process I have worked with the LGBTQ+ and Latinx community and inclusive of other communities. It is my belief that therapy is unique to each individual and I cater individually to all my patients. I practice cultural humility as I continue to learn about cultural uniqueness and differences. I continue to research and inquire about patients' experience to improve my approach to therapy, the therapeutic relationship and experience.

Vanessa Martinez

Vanessa Martinez, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. I have had experience in the mental health field for over 3 years. My previous experience was working with kids and teens on the spectrum. Currently, I work with those over the age of 13. I like to use a variety of therapy techniques depending on the client's needs and expectations.

Danielle Farmer

(she/her)

Danielle Farmer, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Chicago, IL. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Iowa in Psychology, and then I went on to receive my Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Valparaiso University. I'm a clinician who is dedicated to creating a warm, safe, and enriching environment for my clients. I understand everyone’s therapy journey is unique and I strive to ensure all of my clients feel seen, heard, and understood. Therapy is a space for you to explore your talents and strengths, identify barriers, and learn new approaches to cope with stressors.

Phillip Barker

(he/him)

Phillip Barker, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
After starting my career in advertising, I realized through self-discovery and soul-searching that my real passion in life is helping others. In 2010, I decided to go back to school to be clinically trained in social work at Loyola University Chicago, where I spent extensive time working with both adolescents and adults. I have been practicing since 2012 and have been helping clients globally with a variety of issues in my core areas of expertise, including addiction, mood disorders, and identity issues. I am also certified in Financial Social Work, bridging my passions for personal finance and emotional well-being. I live in Chicago and enjoy sports, travel, reading, and quiet Sundays at home.

Dalton Williams

Dalton Williams, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
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.

Martha Tierney

(she/her)

Martha Tierney, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Chicago, Illinois. I earned my MSW in 2005 from the University of Minnesota. I have supported many clients experiencing life transitions such as career and relationship changes. Additionally, I have many years of experience supporting people around aging, Alzheimer's disease, caregiving and grief. I am drawn to this work because I believe everyone deserves to feel understood and supported as they face the ups and downs of life.

Michael Parks

Michael Parks, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
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.

Lakisha Mitchell

Lakisha Mitchell, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
18 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am Lakisha Mitchell Licensed Clinical Social Work (LCSW), native of Chicago Illinois. I am passionate and dedicated in building trusting relationships. I bring to you, 18+ years of experience in providing therapeutic services to individuals, families, and groups: Specializing in grief, trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, domestic violence and life transformation/life changing events. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), my deliberate practice to working with clients is deeply rooted in compassion for people. I believe in creating that safe space, fairness, justice and freedom from prejudice, self-awareness, self-management skills, self-control, open mind, boundary setting and respect.

Tzia Hibler

(she/her)

Tzia Hibler, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, my name is, Tzia Hibler and I am glad you have taken the first step to seeking support in your life. Challenges, barriers, and setbacks happen in life for many reasons. Every battle does not have to be faced alone. I am here to support you in what you want to face. I take a client-centered, strength-based approach to work through goals and processing feelings. I will support you in seeing where you have control to take action, find acceptance, and challenge thoughts. I am an LCSW ( Licensed Clinical Social Worker) licensed in Illinois. I have my Master’s in Social Work with a concentration in schools, from the University of Illinois - Urbana, Champaign. I have experience in public schools, and community-based practices as a therapist and social worker working with a vast array of demographics. I have worked with ages 0 - 65. I have worked with my community to provide clinical services to community violence victims, teen parents, youth and families, LGBTQA+, and individuals with learning disabilities. No matter your walk of life or journey, I will treat you and your story as a unique situation to you.

Gina Grigas

(she/her)

Gina Grigas, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois. I have worked in the mental health field since 2013, starting out in community mental health and crisis services. I work primarily with teens and adults, specializing in challenges facing early adulthood (18-25). I have extensive experience in crisis services and outpatient treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, and life transitions. We will work collaboratively to foster a positive relationship and help you develop the language and skills to manage all of life's challenges. I am passionate about everyone finding their place in this world and creating meaningful connections. Life is not easy but we can get through this together.

Maria Barsellotti

(she/her)

Maria Barsellotti, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I’m Maria and I’m passionate about helping people make fulfilling changes. I specialize in eating disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment, and emotional regulation. I have a collaborative and eclectic style, which helps me personalize the care I offer my clients. My goal is to understand what you need, so you can have a life that is more fulfilling. I always say "the real work happens between sessions". I'm here to offer a road map so your goals don't feel so out of reach. Are you ready to make a change, but don't know where to begin? Let's do this!

Laura Lewison

Laura Lewison, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
I am a solutions focused therapist with over 20 years of experience. In this time, I have worked with people from all walks of life from those who have struggle with homelessness to CEO's of companies. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, family therapy, couples therapy and the lgbtqia+ community. My therapy style is cognitive, interactive, and compassionate. I will listen to you without judgement and together we will work to reach your goals.

Wayne Lyons

Wayne Lyons, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
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!

Katie Sampalis

(she/her)

Katie Sampalis, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, I'm Katie! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. If you have been noticing that feeling of never being caught up or always tired regardless of how much sleep you get? Or maybe you are having some doubts around your current relationship? Family stress or unsure how to implement boundaries? I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, adoption, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I will support you in exploring your history and uncovering patterns you may not even be aware of so that you can begin to have more control of your emotions and be excited about your life and relationships again. I know from my years of experience working with individuals that you have the ability to make big changes in your life. If you are ready to do the work, you will be amazed at how capable you are to explore parts of yourself you never knew existed. The process of therapy can allow you to grow more quickly than you ever have before. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. My clients are very high-functioning, motivated, and committed to making changes in their love life and I love providing them with tools and techniques so that they can reach their potential and ultimately stop coming to therapy.

Frank F Wagner

(he/him)

Frank F Wagner, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
1 year of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed clinical social worker trained in the MSW and PhD program at Loyola in Chicago. I have done graduate studies in Philosphy and majored in Literature, Economics and Finance. I have practiced as a psychotherapist and also taught in the graduate school for over twenty years. I help people understand and work thru the problems we all have in our lives, our relationships and our work.

Denise R.

Denise R., LMFT - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LMFT
11 years of experience
Virtual
Hello there! Do you ever feel as though your life is a million-piece puzzle? Or feel as though your family or partner does not understand you. Life can be complicated; however, your mind does not constantly have to be. My diverse experience has allowed me to gain expertise in helping individuals (18 years+) in various settings, navigate through relational struggles, traumas, betrayals, anxieties, miscommunications, setbacks, self-discoveries, transitions, or misunderstandings. Together, we can identify what is not working and learn ways to communicate it in order to create change. I learned the importance of culture competency through my academic training at Adler University. It is important to understand how the dimensions of culture, race, gender, ethnicity, age, class, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, and language may affect the function of your relational systems. I come to you, gently, soft & warm. I have a strong sense of being mindful and allowing you to be in the moment. I can gently challenge you when need be or pep you up. Ultimately, I will meet you raw and unfiltered and embrace every part of it. You deserve a safe space to explore all parts of the self. Let’s connect and start piecing together the puzzle. **With every darkness, there is a light** Background: Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with 12 years of experience in the mental health field; 10 years as a therapist. BA in Psychology from Texas Tech University MA in Couples & Family Therapy from Adler University Experience: *Residential treatment caseworker *Psycho-social Interventionist *Support for young, migrant children separated from families, living in facilities *Parent group at Haymarket Chicago *School-based therapist in North Lawndale schools *Non-profit in North Lawndale, Chicago neighborhood *Non-profit in Lake County, IL -------------------------------------------------------------- *Prefers families & couples in-person* -Super Bill can be provided

Alexandra Molina

(she/her)

Alexandra Molina, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Are you seeking support on your mental health journey? With over a decade of experience as a clinical mental health counselor, I offer compassionate and personalized guidance to individuals, children, adolescents, couples, and families. As a trauma-certified counselor, I specialize in helping clients navigate mood disorders, personality disorders, anxiety, and depression. My client-focused approach ensures that your unique needs and goals are at the center of our work together. I completed my clinical education through Northwestern University. Remember, therapy is your journey, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. Let's embark on this path towards healing and a brighter future. I primarily focus on working with children, adolescent, adults, and parenting support. I generally do not specialize with couples.

Samantha Furtek

Samantha Furtek, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work. I am based in Illinois and have over 10 years of experience in many different capacities of the mental health field. I work with individuals (adults 18 years and up). I do my best to create a warm, inviting, safe, and judgement free environment.

Lauren Kaplan

Lauren Kaplan, LP - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

Optum
LP
18 years of experience
Virtual
My work experience has spanned a variety of settings, through which I developed a strong clinical background rooted in ACT, DBT, and mindfulness-based approaches. As a therapist, my goal is to provide quality care using proven therapeutic approaches with compassion, dignity, and real human connection to help patients take action toward building a meaningful life enriched by connection to personal values and a deepened sense of self.

Molly Quinn

(she/her)

Molly Quinn, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, born and raised in rural Illinois. I have been working in the mental health field for over 5 years. I have a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community. I use an eclectic approach to provide trauma-information intervention that fits client's unique needs. I provide a warm, empathetic, yet real strengths based perspective approach to client's via tele-health from a secure location.

Beth Rosenberg

(she/her)

Beth Rosenberg, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois. I received my Masters from the University of Illinois at Chicago and my JurisDoctorate from Loyola University School of Law. I have 20 years of combined experience in private practice, public schools, and a children's hospital. I help individuals who seek change gain insight and understanding of emotions, thoughts, and behaviors to promote personal growth and life satisfaction.

Gilmarie Garay-Adames

Gilmarie Garay-Adames, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! My name is Gilmarie, but you can feel free to call me Gigi. I am a licensed, clinical social worker providing individual therapy and couples counseling for clients in Illinois. I am bilingual in Spanish and English and am of Puerto Rican descent. As a social worker/therapist, I love working with people and I believe that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. It is an honor to walk through life with my clients. Also, I enjoy providing faith-based counseling for those who desire to incorporate their faith in their therapeutic journey.

Jason Olko

(he/him)

Jason Olko, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
I'm an experienced clinician with over 30 years in the mental health field, dedicated to others seeking change in their lives. Feeling stuck, unmotivated or worried about taking that next step? I have a good ear, a big heart and a clever mind and I want to help you on your next big thing. Let's figure it out together- it's going to be great!

Molly Carter

(she/her)

Molly Carter, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
Optum
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) based in Illinois and have been practicing for the last 5 years. In therapy I will work alongside you to explore your experiences and help you identify the areas of your life that you would like to improve - ways to enhance communication, social skills, and relating to the world and self.

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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 Life Transitions?

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, Life Transitions, 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.