Optum Therapists in Illinois

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 151 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: 4/11/2026

Authentic
Warm
Direct
Empowering
Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Life Transitions
Grief
Older Adults
Hi! I am board-certified dance/movement therapist (BC-DMT) and licensed professional clinical counselor (LCPC) in IL. I received my Masters from Columbia College Chicago and have been in the field for 10 years. I have worked with children through older adults experiencing a variety of struggles including anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, dementia and trauma. I also provide support to people who serve as care partners/caregivers. An important aspect of my work is my multicultural approach that I bring to clients, which comes from my multiracial heritage (Black, Hawaiian, Chinese-American).
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Humorous
Direct
Authentic
Empowering
Open-minded
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Life Transitions
ADHD
Anger Management
+9
I am a Middle age Christian male that has been married for 30+ years. I have three children who range in age from late teens to late twenties. I also have a spunky granddaughter who is in grade school. I have a Master in Psych, as well as a MSW from SIUC. I also have been a Certified Drug Counselor for over a decade. I have worked both ends of the Mental Health spectrum from ten years in a Behavioral Health ward to now with Grade School and Junior High age children. I am looking to be that calm helping hand in the storm that you are experiencing.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Open-minded
Empowering
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Warm
Direct
Humorous
Challenging
Open-Minded

Specialties

Life Transitions
Anxiety
Men's Issues
+10
I provide individually tailored treatment in a safe and supportive environment that draws and builds upon each person's strengths, resources, wisdom and goals. My style is collaborative, warm and interactive. I enjoy working with a range of clients from children to adults. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, healing from trauma, major life transitions, grief & loss, identity development, self-esteem difficulties, coping with medical health issues and illnesses, dual diagnosis (substance abuse and co-occurring psychiatric disorders), mindful living, and cultivating self-compassion. Using a strength-based approach, I help clients realize their inner strength to make desired life changes. I believe strongly that people can make those changes and create the life they want. I believe it's important in the therapeutic process to establish a relationship of trust, acceptance and empathy. In keeping with the belief that mental and emotional health is as vital as physical health to overall well-being, I am committed to making services available conveniently and comfortably. Appointments can be scheduled seven days a week with early morning and late evening availability.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented
Direct
Empowering

Specialties

Life Transitions
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 35 years of experience treating male and female clients ages 16-80 in individual and couples therapies. Treatment includes a broad range of issues relating to anxiety, depression, communicaton, life transitions, and improving self-esteem. My assessments include evaluating the clients Mind, Body, and Spirit and improving their lives to function at the highest level they ever have in their life.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Open-minded
Authentic
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Challenging
Empowering
Holistic

Specialties

Life Transitions
Anxiety
Depression
+7
Hi there! My name is Essence Jones, and I support individuals of all ages in navigating life’s many stressors—from the challenges of higher education to the often-overlooked adjustment period after graduation and beyond. I am a licensed professional counselor and art therapist who is inspired by art and creativity. I work with people who may be struggling to balance their schedules, relationships, family dynamics, and other responsibilities while trying to stay grounded in who they are. If you're feeling stuck, off-track, or uncertain about your next steps, I’m here to help you work through this chapter and reconnect with yourself along the way. If you are a parent looking for an accessible way to get your student started in therapy, please reach out! I also support clients who are coping with the difficulties of seeing loved ones experience cognitive decline.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Open-minded
Intelligent
Direct
Solution oriented
Challenging
Solution oriented
Humorous
Open-Minded
Holistic

Specialties

Life Transitions
Addiction
Anxiety
+8
Hi – I’m Vicki – do you ever find yourself feeling lost as you wander on a path that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere? Or maybe you’re standing at a fork in the road and you aren’t sure which way to go. No matter what you're going through right now, you can get through it and I can help. I am committed to walking beside you and helping you find your unique path to create a life full of wellness, personal growth, joy and meaning. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Alcohol/Other Drug Counselor (CADC) with over 17 years of counseling experience. I specialize in working with individuals 18 years and older who live in Illinois. MY AREAS OF EXPERTISE INCLUDE: SUBSTANCE USE, GRIEF AND LOSS, ANXIETY, AND DEPRESSION. If you are interested in working with a therapist who is committed to creating an authentic, positive collaborative relationship with you, feel free to schedule an appointment with me through GROW.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Empowering
Warm
Intelligent
Humorous
Open-minded
Open-Minded
Solution oriented
Challenging
Solution oriented

Specialties

Life Transitions
Anxiety
Depression
+10
I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals seeking to enhance their mental well-being and alleviate symptoms of distress. Holding a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and bringing years of experience in the medical field (EMS), I have gained a deep understanding of the complex challenges individuals encounter in both their professional and personal lives.
VirtualAvailable

New to Grow

Specialties

Life Transitions
Anxiety
Depression
+6
You may be someone others rely on—at work, in your relationships, or within your family—but internally you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally drained. You might find yourself overthinking conversations, struggling to set boundaries, or feeling responsible for everyone else’s needs while your own take a back seat. I work with adults navigating anxiety, stress, burnout, and relationship challenges. Many of my clients are high-functioning individuals who feel stuck in patterns like overthinking, people-pleasing, or difficulty communicating their needs. I also have a strong interest in working with veterans and understand the unique stressors that can come with both military and post-service life.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Intelligent
Holistic
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Direct
Humorous
Solution oriented

Specialties

Life Transitions
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+8
One of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. There is so much value, understanding, and growth in developing a healthy relationship with yourself. If you think about it, the longest and most important relationship we will ever have is the one we have with ourselves. I am here to help you begin or continue that journey. I am the type of therapist you want to reach out to if you are struggling with perfectionism or low self-esteem, situations that make you feel anxious, depressed, and easily overwhelmed, or that feeling of being completely burned out and in need of self-care. Whether you are looking to enhance and strengthen your skillset or looking for a listening ear to unwind and receive support, I am here to help you. Together, we will explore, identify, and discover what works and what does not. We will figure out the best way to get you the quality of life you want and need. Whether you are ready to take action or contemplating where to start, feel free to reach out so we can connect and see if I would be a good match for what you are looking for.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Direct
Warm
Open-minded
Intelligent
Empowering
Humorous
Solution oriented

Specialties

Life Transitions
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+9
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist, I believe mental health gives us the language to name, understand, and care for both our most painful and most meaningful experiences. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and trauma-related challenges, helping them make sense of their inner world and build more grounded, fulfilling lives. My approach is collaborative, culturally responsive, and rooted in helping clients reframe limiting beliefs and develop tools that support lasting change.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Humorous

Specialties

Life Transitions
Anxiety
Depression
+10
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 5 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.
VirtualAvailable
Challenging
Empowering
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Life Transitions
ADHD
Depression
+7
You are welcome here! I am Tateanna. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I bring years of experience counseling individuals and families and training professionals to build resilience and sustain mental health. My approach is rooted in faith, compassion, and the understanding that every person’s journey is unique. Together, we’ll focus on your strengths, address challenges, and create actionable strategies tailored to your needs. Whether it’s through Faith, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a mind-body approach, or solution-oriented techniques, my goal is to help you feel empowered, grounded, and equipped to thrive in both your personal and professional life. And because I love the outdoors and adventurous activities like hiking, biking, and rock climbing, I often weave elements of mindfulness and balance into our work, inspired by my own passions for nature and exploration.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Empowering
Warm
Intelligent
Open-Minded

Specialties

Life Transitions
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Hi there. I’m Snonita. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Illinois. I am here to support you through your life’s journey. I have over 10 years of experience working with clients from ages 5-65 years old and also specialize in multiple diagnoses. I use mindfulness techniques in combination with a strengths based and solutions focused approach to support you in your healing. I have experience working with adolescents, young adults, children, parents, families, couples, and clients dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, relationship and family conflict as well as self-esteem, school anxiety/refusal and life transitions. Before I decide on theoretical approaches, I will assess my clients then decide which approach will allow me to get your needs met. If I try an approach and observe it’s not beneficial to assisting you meet your treatment goals, I try to find ways to alter the approach to ensure it is achievable or may decide to try another approach that may be more effective. I am a therapist who will try different ways to assist my clients and not limit myself or my clients to one specific clinical modality.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Open-minded
Direct
Holistic
Humorous
Solution oriented
Challenging
Open-Minded

Specialties

Life Transitions
Anxiety
Self Esteem
+5
Are you avoiding some of life’s most significant moments? Are you overwhelmed or stuck? Is life passing you by with nothing left? Give yourself a little space by taking some time to begin a journey that will help you. In my formal education, I have acquired various certifications and licenses that allow me to provide high-quality clinical services to adults including: 1. Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC): This license enables me to practice as a professional counselor in the state of Illinois. It demonstrates my competency and adherence to ethical standards. 2. Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Addictions Counselor (CAADC): This certification signifies my specialization in helping individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction. It demonstrates my expertise in treating addiction-related issues. 3. Certified Co-Occurring Disorder Professional (CODP I): This certification further emphasizes my proficiency in working with clients who have co-occurring mental health disorders and substance abuse issues. It allows me to provide comprehensive care and support to individuals with dual diagnoses. 4. Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-Level 1): This certification validates my knowledge and skills in providing trauma-informed care to clients who have experienced significant psychological distress or trauma. 5. Certified Clinical Complex Trauma Professional (CCTP): This certification recognizes my specialized training and expertise in working with individuals who have endured multiple or ongoing traumas that have deeply impacted their psychological well-being. 6. Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS): This designation indicates that I have met rigorous standards of expertise and experience in providing clinical supervision to aspiring or practicing counselors. It demonstrates my ability to guide and mentor other professionals in the field. These qualifications enable me to provide effective evidence-based therapy while also equipping me with the skills and knowledge to train and support future counselors.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Solution oriented
Authentic
Open-minded
Direct
Solution oriented
Warm
Humorous
Intelligent

Specialties

Life Transitions
ADHD
Anxiety
+8
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor providing therapy to address a range of challenges including anxiety, depression, ADHD as well as difficulties with communication and navigating conflict in relationships. Often individuals seek therapy after what they have tried on their own is not providing the change they are seeking. I provide a supportive and partnership approach to therapy incorporating tools to meet client goals.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Humorous
Direct
Open-Minded
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Life Transitions
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+6
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I have been practicing in the mental health field with adolescents and adults for the past 12 years. In working with a client, I focus on creating an environment in which you will feel at ease and respected. I have an ability to quickly establish rapport which helps you to actively work with me towards your identified goals. My client-centered approach allows you to openly share issues you feel are causing distress and explore ways in which you would like to make changes.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented
Solution oriented
Open-minded
Humorous
Direct
Intelligent
Holistic
Open-Minded

Specialties

Life Transitions
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Hi, I’m Mel B! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Master’s in Social Work from Aurora University, and I specialize in helping young adults aged 18-30 manage anxiety and feel more in control of their lives. I work with anxiety related to college life, dating, relationships, and major life transitions. I also help clients build routines, coping skills, and self-care practices that are realistic and sustainable. My approach is warm, laid-back, and practical—focused on mindset shifts, emotional regulation, and tools you can use in everyday life rather than overly clinical therapy. I enjoy working with talkative, motivated, and insightful clients who want support that feels genuine, encouraging, and empowering. Outside of sessions, I’m a wife, a cat mom of three, a Swiftie, and a caffeine lover who believes therapy should feel supportive, relatable, and even a little fun.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented
Direct
Holistic
Solution oriented
Open-Minded
Open-minded
Intelligent
Challenging
Humorous

Specialties

Life Transitions
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+1
As an experienced School Social Worker with an LCSW in IL, I have a demonstrated history of working with children, preteens, adolescents and adults in both education and in private practice. I am also a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional. I earned both my bachelors and my masters degrees in social work, I have been committed to working with children and adolescents from the start of my career. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Southern Illinois University and a Masters in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago Jane Addams School of Social Work. I am always working to grow and improve my practice by researching, finding and providing effective supports and using the most current, best-practices in the field. Using a strengths-based approach with Cognitive Behavior Theory, Person-Centered counseling approach and the integration of other approaches, such as Solution Focused Therapy, and Positive Psychology-I work with clients to find more positive, effective social and coping skills. Through my work with clients, they can begin to see improvements in their relationships and their positive connectedness to the community. I specialize in working with clients of all ages-12 years to adulthood- who have difficulty with self-esteem, depression, trauma, anxiety, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), parenting and behavior management issues. I have a special interest in working with adolescents and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders and clients/students with trauma. I assist clients to learn distress tolerance, emotion regulation and how to incorporate mindfulness and other coping strategies in order to manage their bio psycho-social environments.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Empowering
Open-minded
Direct
Challenging
Humorous
Solution oriented

Specialties

Life Transitions
Anxiety
Eating Disorders
+9
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.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Open-minded
Empowering
Solution oriented
Direct
Holistic
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Challenging

Specialties

Life Transitions
Couples Counseling
Family Therapy
+10
Hello, my name is Chelsea, and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois. I graduated in 2019 from Clarke University with my Master's of Social Work. I spent my undergraduate years shadowing and volunteering at a sexual assault and domestic violence advocacy center. I completed research in the areas of trauma, decision making, and intimate relationships. I completed a job shadow with a Victim Witness Coordinator, where I also conducted a year long research project on domestic violence in rural communities. During that time I completed an internship at a combined homeless shelter and food pantry. I then completed a secondary internship at a local community mental health center. I spent four years working at that same local community mental health center where I provided crisis services, individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. I was able to earn my license during that time. I transitioned into school based social work and provided case management and therapy services in the local school setting. I now have opened a private practice called Resiliency Counseling, which is an individualized practice focused on providing individual, couples, and family therapy services to help people who are wanting to improve their mental health in a safe, accepting, and trusting environment. I always strive to meet my patients where they are at in their mental health journey and tailor my approach to what they need. I approach therapy as a mix of processing, guidance, and challenging, in order to help a client identify, process, and reach their mental health goals.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Empowering
Intelligent
Direct
Open-minded
Humorous
Open-Minded
Solution oriented
Holistic

Specialties

Life Transitions
Domestic Violence
First Responders/Healthcare Workers
+5
Hi! I live in Indiana, but I graduated from the University of Illinois @ Chicago with my Master of Social Work degree in 2001. I have been working in the field for over 25 years in many different disciplines. I worked at domestic violence shelters, with child and family services, vocational rehabilitation counselor with deaf and hard of hearing, also teaching at the college level, and hospital social work. Now, my goal is to help others get through life's struggles, make positive changes in their lives, and become more confident in themselves.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Direct
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Empowering
Warm
Intelligent
Holistic
Humorous

Specialties

Life Transitions
Anxiety
Family Conflict
+3
Mike is a Clinical Therapist and Mental Performance Coach, and the Founder of MadeMind Wellness & Performance, a private practice serving adults in Georgia, Illinois, and Washington state. He works with clients to help them build stronger coping skills, emotional intelligence, and personal values—supporting them in creating more fulfilling relationships, careers, and daily lives. With over a decade of experience as a therapist and mental coach, including roles as Director of Mental Performance for the NFL’s Chicago Bears and numerous college sports teams, Mike combines clinical expertise and performance coaching to guide clients through challenges, strengthen resilience, and discover their capacity to thrive.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Humorous
Open-minded

Specialties

Life Transitions
Anxiety
Depression
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. I have experience working with individuals who are coping with chronic mental health symptoms, to those who are working on adjustment in their lives. I have worked in several areas including a community mental health center, a college counseling center, and an inpatient residential treatment center.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Solution oriented
Empowering
Humorous
Open-minded

Specialties

Life Transitions
Anxiety
Chronic Illness
+10
Hello! My name is Jenny, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois. I received my Masters degree in Social Work from Aurora University. I have 8 years of experience working in a variety of different settings including work with military veterans, school age children and adolescents, to adults experiencing life stressors. In addition to my education and work experience, I also bring my own personal experiences of healing from trauma, familial dysfunction, living with a disability, and overcoming the negative emotional impact of living with chronic pain. I am living proof that there is positivity and hope on the other side for those that want it. Let me help you get to where you want to be!
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Solution oriented
Direct
Holistic
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Open-Minded
Open-minded

Specialties

Life Transitions
Anxiety
Depression
+5
Hello! I am Rebecca, a therapist practicing in Illinois. In 2013 I graduated from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology with my Master's degree. I received training in EMDR by the EMDR Institute. Currently, I practice 100% telehealth, so we can work together no matter where you live. I see clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life changes, grief for the loss of a human or pet, and trauma. We all make changes when we are ready. Change can be difficult, and it's not all forward movement. I'm a very laid-back therapist, and provide a safe, judgement-free space where I'll work with you by listening, questioning, and using curiosity. I can help by teaching you skills, discussing decisions, and helping you learn how to change the way you think about yourself, other people, and the world. If appropriate, I can help you with traumatic experiences by providing EMDR and "parts" work. Give yourself the gift of therapy. Explore new ways of seeing things, new ways to manage emotions, new ways of communicating with others, and new ways to care for yourself.
VirtualAvailable
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 Illinois. 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 happens during the first therapy 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.