Optum Therapists in Illinois
Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 135 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.
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ChicagoAvailability updated: 5/21/2025
Rene Stockton
(he/him)
Optum
LCSW
34 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Rene Stockton (pronounced Reni). I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Illinois. I serve my community as a counselor, therapist and change agent. I have had the privilege to work with individuals and families from primarily underserved populations and communities over the course of a 30 year social work practice in two great American cities.
I have encountered child, adolescent and adult challenges ranging from trauma to writer’s block and wellness. I will partner with you to create the soft and more concrete changes you are looking to achieve in your life.
My style is open, supportive and person centered, we will choose the approach for your situation using a variety of theories and concepts including art, movement, and EMDR.
Melissa Cauthen
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a licensed Social Worker in Illinois with 20+ years of professional work experience. My extensive career background has allowed me to work with people from all different situations, where I've advocated for them to have the best quality of life, always. I have lots of experience working with diverse populations and have the ability to meet people where they're at. I thrive on positivity and mental wellness, with a clear understanding and vision of one's light. I'm a natural promoter of empowerment and hold a great deal of empathy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, unique issues faced by the LGBTQIA+ community, relationship issues, family conflicts and much more. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. I'm here to support and empower you in that journey.
Soraia Oliveira
(she/her)
Frequently rebooked
Optum
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
As a Latina and Brazilian, I bring a multicultural perspective to my work, with fluency in Spanish, Portuguese, French, and English. I have many years of experience supporting immigrant women and others from diverse backgrounds. I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. Together, we'll work to challenge and reshape narratives that no longer serve you, build tools for resilience, and celebrate the strengths you bring. My approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and a deep commitment to honoring each client’s unique cultural experiences.
Marcus Jack
Optum
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.
Tiffany Woods
Optum
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.
Loryn Chás
Frequently rebooked
Optum
LCPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Practiced behaviors become influential patterns that transcend generations. Unfortunately, abusive cycles committed by our caregivers or those we hold dear to our hearts manifest into routine, emotional pain, which can feel impossible to break. We find ourselves normalizing abuse to love our abusers even when it hurts.
Being raised in unhealthy environments shifts our perceptions. Over time, we develop coping and protective mechanisms to avoid reopening emotional wounds. These learned unhealthy practices dictate our interactions with others.
I am Loryn Chás (Chase), a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor passionate about empowering clients to actualize their greatness despite their perceived setbacks. I specialize in helping individuals break unhealthy generational cycles through a holistic approach that supports them in reaching their desired goals. Clients often leave counseling feeling liberated from mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual pain, with a renewed sense of energy and a fresh perspective on themselves and their life.
Tamica Wells
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! My name is Tamica, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from University of Southern California. My concentration is Mental Health with a sub-concentration in Military Families. I am a psychotherapist with a breath of wealth and experience in mental health, military families, social services, the criminal justice system, and case management services. I also have extensive experience working with the elderly population, and in psychiatric units, public school systems, mental health clinics, and State, Local and Federal Governmental agencies.
My purpose is to help individuals learn evidence-based strategies, techniques and skills to manage their stress, anxiety, depression and other behaviors to reclaim their lives.
Dawnielle Smith
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
I love the ability to learn, and grow as well as help others see what is it them. Life can have it's challenges but we can navigate through it better when we have support and others who not only see us but hear us. I have worked with youth and adults for the past 15 years supporting them in various ways through coaching, conflict resolution, and using their strengths.
Wanda Bryant-Salaam
(she/her)
Optum
LCPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
My goal is to empower my clients, supporting them to gain confidence, power, trust in themselves and make it through obstacles and struggles they may encounter. In addition, I will provide them with the tools needed to have the strength to move ahead, succeed and cope with the many challenges in their lives.
I have 20 years of experience working with children and families in Early Intervention, and challenges using a Trauma-informed, Strength-based and Client-centered approach. Through this approach, I encourage my clients to become, empowered, and develop coping and problem-solving skills. This will give them the ability to build trust and advocate for themselves.
Being an advocate I am very active in the community and very involved in community outreach. My passion is to give back to the community and make a difference.
My specialties are Relationship Issues, Coping Skills, Depression, Life Transitions, Stress, Women's issues and Domestic Violence.
Lisa Hines
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
I have over 3 decades of experience working in the fields of mental health and social work. I work with youth, adults, families, and couples who are struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, and school refusal. Prior to private practice, I worked in academia as an administrator of social work programs and as a medical social worker.
Jannetta Brass
Optum
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW) based in Oklahoma with a Master’s degree from Capella University and five years of experience in the field. I specialize in helping clients navigate challenges related to stress, depression, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, and parenting issues. My compassionate and collaborative approach empowers clients to find practical solutions, healing, and personal growth. I strive to create a safe, supportive space for everyone to explore their concerns and reach their goals.
Renee Smith
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist specializing in working with children and adolescents. With a deep understanding of the challenges that young people face, I provide a safe and supportive environment where they can explore their emotions, build resilience, and develop healthy coping strategies. My approach is child-centered, emphasizing empathy, patience, and trust as we work together to navigate life’s challenges.
Damilola Monehin
(she/her)
Optum
LCPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counsellor (LCPC) based in Illinois and a doctoral candidate currently getting my Ph.D in Counseling Education and Supervision ( CES). I graduated with my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Moody Theological Seminary, and have been practicing for 5 years. I enjoy helping people achieve the goals that enhance their mental health and overall wellness.
Candyce Bell
(she/her)
Optum
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!
Anthony Brooks
(he/him)
Frequently rebooked
Optum
LCPC
16 years of experience
Virtual
I am a 3rd generation social services worker. I was born to help others, it is all I know. It is my passion. With nearly 20 years in the field, I have a wide array of experiences that help make me a well rounded practitioner. I I have worked with Department of Corrections, DCFS. I have experiences in both high acuity inpatient and intensive out patient therapy. Poly dynamics and LGBQT+ friendly.
Teericka Kimbrough
(She/Her)
Optum
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi There! My name is Te'Ericka (She/Her). I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Illinois. I earned my Master’s degree from Chicago State University and I have been practicing for 4 years. I specialize in working with women and children who have experienced trauma, providing them with the support, guidance, and tools they need to heal, build resilience, and thrive.
Emma Eaton
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
As a therapist, I will continue to assist client with my full ability and understanding how to decrease the negative and increase the positive internal and external related emotional vulnerabilities. I will concentrate on reaching that approach by assisting you as a client’s with developing your insight of overcoming emotional vulnerabilities and work toward those significant behavioral factors more realistically of gaining a better understanding of learning how to agree and not disagree with living life on life terms appropriately. As your therapist, I will continue to coordinate visits with you to assist you with exploring new methods of learning how to cope with alleged emotional problems reaching a point where you have a feeling of optimism and ready to take the steps towards wellness in your life.
Daffaney Burnside
(she/her)
Frequently rebooked
Optum
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
As a child, I always wanted to pursue a career where I could assist with an individual’s growth, creativity and happiness. I learned at a young age the struggles that life can bring, not only through the inevitable, but also through situational traumas that we at times have to face and endure. Being an active member in the clinical field of helping professionals, I have certainly learned the importance of patience, empathy and peace. Identifying and securing ones’ purpose in life, creates the true masterpiece of one’s story. My goal is to assist you in your journey to self-actualization.
Joy Watkins
Optum
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
Healing and restoring individuals and couples as a Therapist and Consultant specializing in Mental Health and Substance Abuse for 20+ years. I have worked with Adults, Adolescents, Teens and Young Adults extensively. I specialize in CBT Therapy, CBT Trauma Focused Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Domestic Violence and Strengths Based Therapy. For individuals or couple experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, fears or any other Mental Health issues I can assist you with combating these issues that are affecting your daily life using a strengths base approach.
Michelle Wong
(she/her)
Optum
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hello I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois. I received my master's in social work from Loyola University of Chicago. I have been a social worker for 39 years and practicing as a therapist for 9 years. I have experience working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, stress, grief and trauma. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. I tailor my treatment to meet my client's specific needs and create a safe and non- judgmental space to support my client's healing journey.
Suzette Gray
(she/her)
Frequently rebooked
Optum
LCSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm Suzette, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in supporting individuals through challenges such as sports performance, depression, anxiety, women’s issues, life transitions, and stress management. Together, we’ll create a safe, supportive space to explore your unique experiences and work toward your personal goals. My approach is tailored to your needs, helping you overcome obstacles and unlock your potential for a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Chevonne Toney
(she/her)
Optum
LCPC
25 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome, I am Chevonne Toney and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in practice for over 24 years. I have worked in a variety of different settings and helped a lot of people with their emotional health, mental illness and addressing their trauma. My approach to therapy is very client centered and I am trained in a variety of different approaches. I have a vast history of working with clients with ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety and Trauma in their backgrounds. I provide therapeutic services as well as education to assist clients with better understanding themselves, their condition and in some cases provided life coaching. My goal for my clients is to assist in healing from their symptoms/trauma and move forward to build a better life for themselves.
Daniaja Davis-Chambers
(she/her)
Optum
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.
Eliza Adams
(she/her)
Optum
LCPC
18 years of experience
Virtual
Hello. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counsellor (LCPC) in Illinois. I received my Doctorate degree in Clinical Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I received my Master's of Science degree in Community Counseling from National Louis University. I have over 2o years of experience in the field and enjoy providing client centered care to individuals of all ages.
Sharonda Giles
(she/her)
Optum
LCPC
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm Sharonda, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). Growing up in Chicago, I regularly witnessed individuals with mental health difficulties, addiction issues, individuals impacted by trauma, and those who were victims of violence. Many of them did not have guidance on how to heal or could not access helpful resources/supports. Because of that, I set my goal to be a valuable resource and advocate for anyone who may need guidance or support through their struggles. I have approximately 9 years of experience working in various mental health settings including; a substance abuse rehabilitation center; outpatient therapy facilities; within the juvenile detention center; with DCFS involved youth; Juvenile Trauma programs; and with Community Violence Intervention programs.
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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 a specific issue?
The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.
What are the "Clients say I'm" badges?
Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.
Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?
Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.
What to expect during your first session?
Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs.
Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center. Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.
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.