UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicaid Therapists in Indiana
Finding mental health support with UnitedHealthcare/Optum Medicaid can sometimes be challenging, as provider availability and access can feel limiting. With 129 verified therapists in Indiana who accept UnitedHealthcare/Optum Medicaid, you have access to compassionate professionals who understand the unique needs of Medicaid clients. Therapeutic options include cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive counseling, and solution-focused therapy, tailored to address concerns such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is currently open to new clients and has upcoming availability, making it easier to connect with quality care within your UnitedHealthcare/Optum Medicaid plan, without the usual hurdles Medicaid members often face.
Find therapists near you in
IndianapolisAvailability updated: 7/5/2025
Cisco Zepeda
(he/him)
LMFT
18 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with 18 years of experience serving individuals, couples, and families in Indiana. My Master's degree from Northern Illinois University provided a strong foundation for the diverse therapeutic strategies and models I use to help clients navigate complex relationship challenges. I focus on thorough assessments, accurate diagnoses, and the development of tailored solutions to foster improved communication, emotional well-being, and overall functioning for everyone I work with.
Joe Shepherd
(he/him)
LCSW
2 years of experience
Virtual
I’m so glad you took this first step of reaching out for support! Whether you want to navigate difficulties in your life, repair relationships, or build a strong foundation for your mental and emotional wellness - I am here to help! We’ll work together to move past obstacles so you can take steps to achieve your goals. I want the therapeutic process to feel helpful and worthwhile. I work with sincerity, compassion and non-judgement, and will provide a nurturing environment where you can talk candidly about your concerns. I look forward to exploring this journey with you!
Find therapists experienced in these areas
JoAnn Treece
(she/her)
LMHC
26 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I’m a licensed mental health counselor in Indiana with over 25 years of experience. I earned my Master's degree from Purdue University. My current focus is on helping adults who are seeking support to manage their mental health symptoms and enhance their overall quality of life. If you’re looking for guidance, I’m here to assist you on your journey. I offer teletherapy appointments with evening and weekend hours available.
Chris Denzler
LMHC
11 years of experience
Virtual
I am a down to earth person that realizes that starting counseling can be seem challenging. I understand that we are getting to know each other. Take your time. I am happy to work at your speed. Feel free to contact me and we will move forward with setting up services. I am happy help in any way I can.
With therapy experience since 2013, working with individuals, such as children, men, and women, couples, and families; focusing on trauma victims, individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, parenting, and relationship issues. Much of my experience is working with families involved with the Department of Child Services and juvenile probation. I am a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapist. In my experience, I have specialized in trauma, addiction, and relationship issues.
Sharon Straub
(she/her)
LCSW
21 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Sharon and I am a Therapist who has been working in the field of mental health for 20 years. I have worked in community mental health, inpatient hospital, rehab, and office settings. I have experience with clients of all ages but currently focused on adults and seniors.
I use CBT, EMDR, Trauma-Informed Interventions to address anxiety, mood disorders, grief, trauma, and life transitions. I do have extensive experience with Severe Mental Health Issues such as Schizophrenia.
Ellie Lemberis
(she/her)
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
I bring over 25 years of dedicated experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, specializing in working closely with children and their families. My career has spanned across dynamic environments including the Public School system and the Juvenile Justice system, where I've had the privilege of making a meaningful impact. With advanced degrees in both Social Work and Education, I am deeply committed to fostering positive outcomes and providing comprehensive support to those I serve.
James Bush
(he/him)
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Down to earth therapist , relates well to people of all ages. If you work with me expect to learn about yourself and go on a journey you plan out and I help you get there. Use mainly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Big believer in using imagery, breathing and listening to your body to find where the problem lives and how to resolve it
Anna Ellis
(she/her)
Frequently rebooked
LMHC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, my name is Anna, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Indiana. Taking that first step to acknowledging that you need help, is the hardest one, so finding a counselor you are able to connect with shouldn't be. If you're looking for a counselor who is laid back and easy to speak with we may be a good fit. I believe talking things out with someone who is open to hearing anything you may have to say and not passing judgment is a rare find, but I am someone who is very accepting of the things that you may have a hard time discussing with others. I am one who will work to keep the mood light when needed but also provide the space to experience emotions without shame. During those times of processing I like to utilize the last few minutes of session to debrief, wind down, and possibly experience some laughter prior to ending session so you are able to leave feeling better.
Tyler J. Ellison
LMHC
4 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Tyler J. Ellison, a Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapist. I utilize solution focused, client driven methods to support clients to recognize facets of their ideal personal wellness and mindfulness based strategies to actualize these ideas. I utilize motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment, trust based relational interventions, person centered, humanistic, existential, family centered treatment. I have been working with clients for 7 years with 3 years as a professional Clinician.
Veronica Vaughn
(she/her)
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in Indiana. I obtained my master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University, and I have over 10 years of experience in the social services and mental health fields. I believe in the quiet strength we all carry—especially when life has pushed us to the edge. I’ve spent years walking beside individuals as they navigate anxiety, trauma, life transitions, stress, and moments that feel like too much. I create a space where people feel safe enough to bend, process, release—and strong enough to bounce back and rise. You won’t find judgment here. Just presence, compassion, and a steady guide through the work of healing.
Whether you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain, I meet you where you are—and we walk forward, one step at a time.
Paul Runyan
LMHC
18 years of experience
Virtual
Paul is a licensed mental health therapist with the State of Indiana (Lic# 39004665A). He has been practicing for 15 years. Paul specializes in trauma, men's issues, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, BPD, and depression. Paul has worked with serious mental health issues for years and served in the addiction treatment arena for the past 8 years. Paul is a husband, and father of 4 grown children, and has 4 grandchildren. He uses a variety of approaches CBT, DBT, MI, person-centered, Gestalt, and is trauma-informed.
Laura Guarino
LMHC
19 years of experience
Virtual
Hello
I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Florida, a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Indiana and licensed professional counselor in the state of South Carolina. I received my master’s in psychology and mental health counseling from Marist College in Poughkeepsie. NY. I have been practicing for 19 years. I work with clients ages 13 and above helping to manage trauma as well as other stressors from life and teach coping skills to not just manage symptoms but live the best version of the clients self.
Ruth Dilley
(she/her)
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I received my degree from Indiana University and currently live in Michigan on a horse farm. I have over 4 years of experience seeing clients in an office setting, or via telehealth for traditional therapy, as well as play therapy, and animal assisted therapy for in person sessions. I see teens, and adults for telehealth, to assist with developing coping skills, insight, and improved self-care to live life with greater ease, and less distress.
Sydni Brown
(she/her)
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Indiana with a Master’s Degree from Indiana University with 6 years of clinical experience. I have a strong background working with children and am now expanding my focus to support adults. My goal is to help clients heal from past experiences, build resilience, and create meaningful change in their lives.
Lydia Roden
(she/her)
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Do you struggle with self compassion or allowing yourself to feel your emotions? I empower individuals to better understand their emotions and treat themselves with patience and kindness.
Together we can work on identifying barriers that make it difficult to sit with your emotions and observe them without judgment. I will be utilizing DBT and mindfulness to help you increase self esteem and gain new skills to manage stress.
What is most important for you to address in therapy? Let’s have a session to discuss your treatment goals and begin working on these! I am excited to speak with you.
Rachel Klekot
(she/her)
LMHC
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am a sex-positive, LGBTQIA-affirmative, polyamory-friendly, and kink-aware therapist.
I work with individuals across a broad spectrum, providing a safe and supportive space to explore life challenges and changes. I offer compassionate, collaborative, and non-judgmental therapy, where we will explore both your struggles and successes, learning together how you want to move through life with greater confidence, clarity, and self-acceptance. .
Brandy Miller
LMHC
10 years of experience
Virtual
When life becomes challenging, when self-care is slipping away, or when stress and struggles seem overwhelming or paralyzing, I want you to know that you are not alone. You are stronger than you realize. You can discover (or rediscover) your “authentic self” even when it seems impossible or unsurmountable. I am here to help. Together, we can assess what your authentic needs and how to achieve them in mind, body, emotions, spirit and action. I’m here to guide, educate, and empower you. My treatment approach is one of curiosity and compassion so that during our sessions, you are free to slow down and safely practice mindfulness and self-care.
Together, we will decide which types of interventions work best for you: talk therapy, faith-based, practical problem-solving, trauma-informed care, or creative techniques like art or narrative approaches. We will explore your inner thought-life through mindfulness and cognitive work. We will identify skills, strengths, and supports that can grow through patient practice between sessions. With evidence-based techniques, we will find and navigate paths so you can reclaim joy and walk in peace. I am privileged to walk alongside you during your journey.
Peace and hope are possible and sustainable.
You deserve to take care of yourself.
You will be stronger on the other side.
Jessie Laeder
LCSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm glad you're here! I believe in creating a compassionate, open, and supportive environment to give you space to process emotions. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Indiana where I also hold my Credentialed Sexual Abusive Youth Clinician (CSAYC) credentials. This means that I have additional training regarding children with sexually maladaptive behaviors. I have been working therapeutically with families and individuals for 5 years. Whether it is processing past trauma, addressing depression and anxiety, or exploring life transitions I'm always happy to have a warm welcoming place for you to feel heard.
Pam Karandos
LMHC
17 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have worked with various populations and ages of individuals with diverse backgrounds including people with anxiety, stress, grief/loss, depression. I work well with individuals, couples, and families. I like to build a trusting relationship with the individual building rapport. I use a variety of approaches with individuals and help them work to feel and lead a more healthy, fulfilling life.
Jessica Zellers
(she/her)
LCSW
23 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Jessica. Do you sometimes find yourself overwhelmed by the many priorities and responsibilities you face? Is it a challenge to just focus on one task or issue at a time?
I serve as a guide to help you create the roadmap you need to get where you want to go. Together, we'll uncover the barriers that keep you from reaching your goals and developing the kind of life you want for yourself. Using techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused theories, we'll create a detailed plan of action that will take you from a place of feeling generally "stuck" to feeling satisfied and hopeful about what life has in store for you.
Whether you're dealing with symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief/loss, attention difficulties, substance use, or just generally looking for support as you make changes or transitions in life, I'll be with you every step of the way. I can't wait for us to get started!
Kimberly Winkel
(she/her)
LCSW
40 years of experience
Virtual
Hello and welcome! I understand that life can be tough at times. I am dedicated to helping people, like you, navigate through difficult periods. We all reach a point where we need support and guidance. I am committed to supporting you on your path to healing. Together, we will create personalized goals that cater to your individual needs and preferences. Through this process, you will gain a deeper understanding of yourself and develop tools to maintain a healthy work/life balance in the future.
Patty Bittinger Mansfield
(she/her)
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
I provide a safe environment and build trusting relationships so that skills can be taught to help clients alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression. The goal is for clients to learn skills and methods to help alleviate pain, promote healing and have a variety of strategies at “their fingertips” as they encounter unpleasant, difficult emotions and situations.
I bring skills and strategies to the counseling process to promote positive outcomes, and positive feelings and thoughts for clients.
Clients may be trying to overcome anxiety, anger, and/or depression, or want to work on communication and relationship skills. I am here to help guide you through the process.
My experience includes providing therapy in medical behavioral health centers, community behavioral centers, online platforms, school settings, and universities. Through my work, I know how important it is to build mutual respect and trust between the client and therapist. Positive rapport must be developed for both the client and therapist to meet goals and reach success.
Taking the first step toward therapy can be very difficult. I want to provide you with an open, trusting, caring space for you to learn, heal and grow. Let's work together!
Ashley Stowe
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Indiana with five years of experience supporting clients through life’s transitions. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Indiana University and recently became Perinatal Mental Health Certified (PMH-C). I’m deeply passionate about maternal mental health and committed to walking alongside women through every stage of their journey—whether you’re preparing for motherhood, currently pregnant, navigating postpartum, or working to rediscover and reconnect with yourself. My goal is to create a safe, affirming space where you feel seen, supported, and empowered.
Ashlyn Ciszar
(she/her)
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over six years of experience supporting children, teens, and their families. My approach is warm, casual, and grounded in creating a safe space where you can feel heard and understood.
I work with both children and adults navigating anxiety, depression, and trauma-related stress. I also have extensive experience supporting individuals and families who have experienced complex trauma, including sexual abuse.
My work is rooted in your strengths and values, because I believe healing starts with honoring who you are. If you're going through a difficult time and think we might be a good match, I’d love to connect.
Cortnie Anderson
(she/her)
LMFT
8 years of experience
Virtual
Life is a journey best told by the author. My story has been told under the title of a therapist, wife, mom, daughter, volunteer, and even a Girl Scout leader. All those titles have given me life experiences that have helped craft a pretty amazing story.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 9 years of therapeutic work experience. My clinical expertise in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma/abuse, foster care/adoption, and parenting issues.
Knowing that you are the expert author of your story, I am here to help guide you along your journey by growing your strengths, relationships, and resources to assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Thank you for your courage to sign up for therapy and for allowing me to get to know your story.
Frequently asked questions
Why filter by Indiana rather than a city
like Indianapolis?
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 Indiana from Fort Wayne to Evansville! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Indiana.
Will my therapist take UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicaid?
Yes! If you use UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicaid you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicaid 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.