Optum Therapists in Illinois

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 84 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: 7/18/2025

Candyce Bell

(she/her)

Candyce Bell, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
I am an Army Veteran and LCPC with a certification as a national certified counselor through the NBCC and have accumulated over 6 years of direct individual/group practice as a licensed counselor. Overall, my experience spans over 10 years working as a crisis, substance use, and mental health counselor in the field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and substance use. I also have assisted many clients who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is very welcoming and inviting. I believe in honoring the values of respect, sensitivity, compassion, empathy and embracing a holistic point of view to promote mental wellness. It takes courage to make the steps towards a more fulfilling and happier life and embrace change. If you are ready to take that leap into a healthier mind, body, and spirit, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you in your new journey!

John D Benton

(he/him)

John D Benton, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
35 years of experience
Virtual
Hello!. My name is John Benton, LCSW from Illinois. I have been a licensed therapist since 2007 working 19 years in a community mental health center. Prior to that i was counseling in group homes for adolescent boys and girls who had serious behavior and thinking problems. I have treated many mental health issues arise in various ethnicities and age groups. I have also supervised staff in properly applying counseling techniques and behavior modifications to help youth successfully reintegrate to their homes of origin, foster homes, and in society in general.

Debra Prichard-Hurt

(she/her)

Debra Prichard-Hurt, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has over 30 years in the mental health field working in psychiatric hospitals and private practice. I work with clients individually (ages 13-17; 18- 65+); Couples and Families who suffer from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, marriage/divorce issues, grief issues, suicidal thoughts, self-harming behaviors, domestic violence (victims) and substance use. I am passionate about what I do and truly care about each of my clients.

Marcus Jack

Marcus Jack, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? I’m here to help you navigate stress, conflict, anxiety, and depression. Whether you're an individual, couple, or family, I’ll provide the tools and strategies to improve your well-being, regain control, and move forward with confidence. Together, we'll develop a winning game plan to strengthen your sense of purpose—shifting from struggling day-to-day to truly thriving.

Brian Katz

(he/him)

Brian Katz, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
19 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I’m Brian If you feel stuck, and unable to change things, I can help you to start moving again. We can join together and create a strategy for working through the event or dilemma that is stressing you out. Together we will work to restore or surpass your previous level of productivity and satisfaction. I want to hear your story. I will listen. I will not judge. For the last 18 years, I have helped individuals, families and couples resolve problematic situations. Their experiences often instilled insight, confidence, serenity and hope. My holistic mission is to: • listen empathetically, without judgement • Ease suffering and improve functionality • Teach you to persist when fear and doubt are present • Be equal partners working together to create and implement strategies to resolve, accept and overcome the obstacles that impede your progress I want to • Help you find insight, meaning and purpose • Provide support as you proceed in the direction of your choosing • Teach you how to live more effectively • Create the opportunity for you to smile when it is most needed and least expected I take the time to educate you about the conditions that you experience and the treatment you receive. I believe that self-empowerment begins with self-understanding. I will help you understand why you do what you do and feel what you feel. I have extensive experience treating addicted people in residential in patient treatment, outpatient and aftercare facilities. I advise and treat families struggling to with parents, children and siblings that are addicted

Vanessa Martinez

Vanessa Martinez, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

Merek Poto

(she/her)

Merek Poto, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Illinois. I received my Masters from Aurora University and I have been practicing for 5 years. I am a warm, empathetic therapist who helps adults become the best versions of themselves. I work to help people understand who they are and manage their various stressors, anxieties, and emotions. Combining my lived and professional experience, I specialize in working with LGBTQ adults to address needs specific to our community, especially those of transgender experience. Further, I myself am an individual who has detransitioned and I extend services to those who have as well. I understand what it's like to go through transition and go back, and I want to ensure my clients get thorough care, transitioning or detransitioning. Of course, I work with people who are inside and outside the LGBTQ community, I'm an advocate for you. I also work with personality disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, and so much more. Regardless of what brings you to therapy, I have a wide range of resources available to all my clients for extra support. My biggest priority in therapy is honesty, as well as giving you a space you feel comfortable in so you can open up at your pace. I want to build a strong, lasting alliance between us so we can help you become the best version of yourself. I know that together, we are going to do great things. A little about me, I have a sphynx cat named Cupid and a black cat named Tofu. Behind me sits my spider, Marrow, who burrows and builds tunnels more than she spins webs. I also enjoy playing DND, I've been drawing since I was in kindergarten, and I play lots of video games, particularly fantasy RPGs.

Dee Ventucci

Dee Ventucci, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving clients in Illinois. With a Master's from The Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois at Chicago, I bring 9 years of social work experience, including 7 years in private practice. My therapeutic approach focuses on addressing the root causes of symptoms, empowering clients to live fulfilling lives free from mental health concerns. I'm dedicated to achieving lasting healing for many common disorders.

Chelsie Scoggin-Chang

(she/her)

Chelsie Scoggin-Chang, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
19 years of experience
Virtual
Finding a therapist can be an overwhelming task. Life can be full of complexities that can be difficult to navigate. Considering that you may be feeling sad or overwhelmed, I commend you for taking the brave first steps toward taking care of yourself. I believe in the value and worth of the person and that we all possess strengths to help us in the journey of life. If you have been feeling stuck, we can work together to uncover what is holding you back and help you to develop the tools that will move you forward. A key component to beginning this process is to find someone who can put you at ease. I have been told I am easy to talk to and make providing a safe, comfortable, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment a top priority. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Reciprocal Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor (CRADC) in the state of Illinois. I have been in the field for close to 20 years and have been in private practice for 10. I specialize in helping people recover from anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. I utilize a collaborative, whole-person approach that values the relationship between therapist and client and sees the client as the expert. This is your story! I’m just walking through it with you, and I’m honored you chose me!

Dr. Taliah Ziyad-Nau

(she/her)

Dr. Taliah Ziyad-Nau, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Dr. Taliah, Life sometimes leaves us unable to direct our attention. We're often being pulled towards many directions. If you have work, school, family or a recent life event you would like to process, I am here for you. If a recent life event has brought you distraction, grief or trauma and has you off of your game, let's get you back on track. I would be happy to support you in returning to your best self. Faith-based holistic approach, upon request.

Gina Grigas

(she/her)

Gina Grigas, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

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.

Joan VanderSchaaf

Joan VanderSchaaf, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
17 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! My counseling practice is in Wheaton, Illinois and I am also licensed in Florida. I have a master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and a doctorate in Counselor Education & Supervision. In addition to private practice, I serve as professor in the counseling graduate program at National Louis University in the Chicago area where I teach all foundational theory and research-based courses.

Robert D Jaskula

(he/him)

Robert D Jaskula, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with thirty some years' experience. I currently supervise master's degree level students in substance abuse treatment field placement. I have delivered services in a variety of contexts: schools, hospitals, and community mental health agencies. I approach my work with curiosity, openness, and transparency - attempting to increase understanding and build community in diversity.

Jennifer Martin Rieck

(she/her)

Jennifer Martin Rieck, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am Jenn, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Telemental Health Provider, and the owner of Epijennetics Counseling and Consulting in Libertyville, Illinois. Epijennetics Counseling is located just outside of downtown Libertyville off of Milwaukee Avenue in Forum Square. You can read more about my work and practice at www.epijennetics.com. As a therapist, I hold the belief that we cannot fully understand mental health without first understanding the impact of our stories, our relationships, and our beliefs about ourselves, others, and the world. I am passionate about helping clients increase their self-awareness of these things so that they are more in touch with their feelings, needs, and desires, and are more equipped with the knowledge and tools to create the life that they want. By utilizing assessments such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator to better understand personality and the Young Schema Assessment to explore harmful thoughts and beliefs that came from previous experiences and messages received during childhood years, I help clients discover hidden obstacles that keep them from having the life they dream of. I have found that when we put in the work to make sense of ourselves and our stories, we not only heal and grow ourselves but also develop more compassion and increased understanding of others. Often this growth and healing process lessens mental health symptoms such as anxiety and depression and improves overall quality of life, as well as relationship quality. If you are interested in doing some exploring, I would love to hear from you! (Please make an in-office appointment if you are booking Couple or Family therapy sessions.)

Gilmarie Garay-Adames

Gilmarie Garay-Adames, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

Charlene Mabins

(she/her)

Charlene Mabins, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois. I received my master’s degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago and have been practicing for over 10 years and over 35 years in Life Coaching. I help adults who are between the ages of 25-75 that are struggling with chronic illnesses, Stress, life challenges. Clients will reflect on challenging situations and learn new coping skills to help them with their life's journey in difficulty times.

Alejandro Garrido

(he/him)

Alejandro Garrido, LP - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
20 years of experience
Virtual
I am Dr. Alejandro Garrido, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, I have spent numerous years working with individuals, couples and families ranging from adolescence through adulthood, with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, stress management, PTSD, ADHD, adjustment to life changes, grief and loss issues; parenting concerns; couple issues; or problems coping with daily stress. If you have some of these concerns, you can experience emotional, mental and relational healing. I employ a collaborative, supportive and confidential approach to work together on your therapy goals. I am also able to see individuals looking to incorporate their spirituality and faith into their psychological services. I have a doctorate degree from Loyola University and a master degree in theology from Saint Mary of the Lake University. I believe that through therapy people can experience healing, happiness, and psychological well-being. We can work together to help you enhance your psychological and spiritual well-being! Soy psicólogo clínico con un doctorado en psicología y maestría en Teología, ofrezco terapia clínica y pastoral en español/ingles desde adolescentes hasta la edad adulta. Algunas de las aéreas clínicas en que tengo experiencia como psicólogo incluye: ansiedad, depresión, manejo del estrés y dolor crónico, problemas de pareja, problemas con los hijos, PTSD, ADHD y desarrollo espiritual. Le puedo ayudar a promover cambios positivos en su vida y experimentar salud mental, emocional, espiritual y familiar.

Candace R Clark

(she/her)

Candace R Clark, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
“Life is what happens after we make plans”. I believe life has a way of bringing us to feelings of loneliness, hopelessness, or can become overwhelming causing change at a rapid rate. When these difficulties occur they can lead to depression, anxiety or feeling as though you can not move forward. At times like these it can be helpful to address theses with someone who will help you to begin to move forward again. Therapy is a solution to life’s plans that were not a part of the ones you laid out for yourself. Therapy can get you back moving forward. I am here to get you on that track. I have been in the field of mental health for over seven years. I obtained my Masters in Clinical Social work from Loyola University in 2013. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois specializing in treating those struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma related issues, behavioral issues, and couples counseling. I come from a strengths based perspective. I am driven by the call placed on my life by God for this work. As a faith based counselor I work with my clients to gain the strength within them to move forward. I believe that everyone has an innate ability to move past life’s issues. Together we will work on strategies that will allow you to address the root causes of your difficulties and build meaningful social connections. Using an eclectic approach through psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, attachment, mindfulness and other evidence-based approaches, we will develop more strength in you to get back to a healthier mental focus. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.

Justin Cody

Justin Cody, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Christian Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based out of Central Illinois. Life is a journey, and as with all journeys there are ups and downs, struggles and hardships. I am here to help you manage the journey of life. When you feel stuck, I am here to help you get back up and on your way again. Through a Christian lens, I will help you find peace in life.

Daniaja Davis-Chambers

(she/her)

Daniaja Davis-Chambers, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
After graduating with my MSW in 2019 from the University of Illinois - Urbana Champaign, I have been pursuing my passion of providing high quality therapeutic care to those who have experienced chronic, complex trauma and are now wanting to break the cycle and heal. I am a firm believer that trauma impacts our whole beings. And left untreated, trauma takes an emotional and physical toll that wreaks havoc on our mind, bodies, and spirits. My goal is to be a part of that journey towards healing.

Maleka Qureshi

Maleka Qureshi, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Maleka Qureshi, and I am a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 10 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I specialize in supporting adolescents and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, dual diagnoses of mental illness and substance-related disorders, and various mental health issues. I offer culturally and linguistically appropriate services in English, Urdu, Hindi, and Gujarati. My therapeutic approach combines different psychotherapy techniques to help clients address negative thoughts and past patterns, empowering them to focus on the present and achieve their goals. I believe therapy is a collaborative journey, and I am dedicated to helping clients find fulfillment and balance in their lives.

Debra Disney

(she/her)

Debra Disney, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCPC
26 years of experience
Virtual
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), my mission is to guide individuals on a journey back to their innate wisdom, compassion, peace, and confidence. I often think of the story of Michelangelo, who described sculpting as the act of chipping away marble to reveal the beauty already within. This metaphor beautifully captures the counseling process: together, we identify and remove the barriers obscuring your true SELF, allowing your inner brilliance to shine through. My approach is rooted in deep compassion for the human experience. I bring to our work a blend of trauma-informed care and evidence-based practices, enriched by certifications in Mind-Body Bridging, Cognitively-Based Compassion Training, and Cultivating Emotional Balance. I draw from powerful therapeutic frameworks, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Mindful Self-Compassion, and Compassionate Inquiry, tailoring each session to meet your unique needs.

Tijen Dyson

(she/her)

Tijen Dyson, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
16 years of experience
Virtual
You are a whole and complete being - body, mind, and spirit. Anxiety, stress, depression, and overwhelm can cause you to feel isolated and disconnected from yourself and what's important to you in your life. In therapy, we'll draw on your strengths, goals and desires to support you in integrating all parts of yourself so you can feel like the complete being you are. Engaging in therapy is courageous and I commend you for taking this step. I believe that this is a partnership and I'm here to support you in your goals and offer tools that you can practice and draw from to manage and reduce your stress, anxiety, overwhelm and depression. I'm looking forward to partnering with you on your wellness journey.

Brandi Binder

(she/her)

Brandi Binder, LCSW - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am Brandi. Are you struggling with stress? Trauma? Depression? Anxiety? Relationship issues? Figuring out your balancing act with all things in your day to day? All of the above? I can help. Let’s work together to find you some relief. Let me help you work towards inner peace and happiness. Let me help you learn to communicate so that you feel heard in those relationships. Let me be a supportive ear to help you guide yourself through all that you are struggling to overcome. Even if you aren’t struggling and just want to learn new ways to be positive in your life. Let’s look for a positive mind together!

Stephenie Teague

Stephenie Teague, LCPC - Illinois Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
I have amassed over 20 years of experience in counseling, specializing in supporting adults and adolescents dealing with substance use disorder, domestic violence and sexual assault, and mental health challenges before branching off into private practice.  My passion is empowering individuals, couples and families to see their strengths as resources in life's challenges and to help shift patterns to more satisfying outcomes.   

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 Spirituality?

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, Spirituality, 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.