Optum Therapists in Kentucky

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 138 verified therapists in Kentucky 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.

Availability updated: 10/31/2025

Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 30 ratings

Tracy Rugg

LCSW, 4 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+5
Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois. I have worked in the field of Social Work for 25 years at the Bachelor's level, including case management for at-risk youth, CPS investigations and medical social work. I received my Master's of Science in Social Work from the University of Louisville and have been practicing four years. I assist adults dealing with anxiety, depression and trauma with recognizing triggers/barriers to successful living and then learning to effectively reframe in order to be a better version of themselves.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 9 ratings

Jonathan Edwards

LPCC, 3 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Solution oriented
Direct

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Hello, I am Jonathan Edwards, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). It is my joy to help people of all ages and backgrounds navigate mental health issues. I have experience treating a variety of disorders related to anxiety, depression, trauma, mood, and negative behaviors. Utilizing various treatment strategies from proven counseling techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, I find an approach that works best for each client. I believe that a person’s sense of self develops from their experiences interacting socially and their ability to meet personal goals. I hope to guide my clients in identifying sources of negative feelings, developing better coping skills, and forming meaningful connections. Helping individuals create and achieve their goals empowers them to live more meaningfully.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 10 ratings

Anita Coffey

LCSW, 16 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
Hi, i am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Kentucky. I received my Master's of Social Work degree from the University of Louisville. I have been practicing for 16 years. I help people identify barriers in thinking and obstacles in their lives that keep them from thriving and then help them build self efficacy and solutions to their problems.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 35 ratings

Regina Chanda

LCSW, 11 years of experience

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
+5
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker near Lexington, KY. I have 11 years experience and have worked in a community mental health center and in a counseling center at a small university. I consider it a privilege for clients to share their story with me and entrust me to help them get to where they want to be. I help clients engage in the change process and support them on their journey to becoming more healthy.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 8 ratings

Brittain West

LPCC, 20 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Open-minded
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
+10
I am a skilled and empathetic with over 18 years of experience. I work with a wide variety of clients from the very young to the very experienced. My clients are people who have been struggling, often through many failed attempts, to get their life back on the path they want. I help my clients find their own, unique way to overcome the challenges they are facing be it depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or unexpected changes in life circumstances. I help my clients find their footing and forge their own path towards the future they choose.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 15 ratings

Dr. Kelli Stephens

LCSW, 6 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+8
Hi! I am Dr. Kelli Stephens, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) from the University of Kentucky. I have extensive experience as both a therapist and a clinical director, and I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with resilience and self-compassion. My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative, drawing from evidence-based therapies to support clients in achieving meaningful growth and healing. I specializes in trauma therapy, addiction, and anxiety. I have experience working with adults and adolescents struggling with a variety of personality and mental health disorders.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 19 ratings

Kasey Teasley

LPCC, 7 years of experience

Empowering
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Addiction
Mood Disorders
Spirituality
+9
Hello! I am a dedicated and licensed professional in Kentucky, holding qualifications as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol Drug Counselor, specializing in substance abuse treatment and mental health care. I earned my Master of Education degree from Lindsey Wilson College in December 2021 and am currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education & Supervision from the same institution, further deepening my expertise in the field. With seven years of hands-on experience, my focus has been on empowering individuals struggling with substance abuse and alcoholism to achieve lasting recovery. Additionally, I specialize in addressing various mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. My approach is rooted in compassion, evidence-based practices, and a commitment to providing comprehensive and personalized care to each client. I strive to create a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where individuals can explore their challenges, foster resilience, and work towards achieving their personal goals for mental wellness and a fulfilling life.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 3 ratings

Heather Kirkland

LPCC, 11 years of experience

Warm
Empowering
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hello- I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Supervisor in KY. After providing Pastoral Counseling to my congregants for 10 years I earned my Master’s in Profession Counseling at Grand Canyon University; I wanted to not just help others spiritually, relationally, and emotionally—- but also wanted to be able to help others with their mental hurts and habits they faced on a daily basis.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 29 ratings

Nikita Wordlow

LCSW, 13 years of experience

Empowering
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Career Counseling
Coping Skills
Self Esteem
+10
Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Master Degree of Social Work from the University of Louisville over 20 years ago. I've worked with various different backgrounds, and populations. I look forward to meeting you and working together to find ways to assist with breaking down barriers. I enjoy assisting others in finding positive ways to cope with life challenges.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 70 ratings

Leo Bowman

LCSW, 5 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
LGBTQ
Trauma and PTSD
+5
Hi I'm Leo I'm a non binary transgender man. I have my master’s degree in social work from the University of Louisville and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social worker in Indiana and Kentucky. My professional background has been working with the University of Louisville as a therapist at the Trager Institute Optimal Aging Clinic. While working at University of Louisville Trager Institute, I gained experience in treatment areas such as conversion disorders/PNES, PTSD/Trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, transgender issues, gender dysphoria and LGBTQ+ issues.
Virtual
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 24 ratings

Amanda Nelson

LCSW, 6 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Family Therapy
+10
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Louisville, Kentucky. I received my Master's Degree from the University of Louisville. I have 6 years of experience treating children, adults, and families with various difficulties and situations. I am passionate about helping individuals and families resolve conflict in their lives, make positive changes, and become the best version of themselves! *** If you are scheduling an intake for a minor, the parent/guardian must be present at the intake appt.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 87 ratings

Shemika Whiteside

LCSW, 6 years of experience

Humorous
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Depression
Perinatal Mental Health
Women's Issues
+8
Mrs. Whiteside has worked in various mental health settings maintaining her unwavering focus on mothers and small children. As a perinatal psychotherapist, Mrs. Whiteside works with mothers and/or families who are struggling with perinatal mental illness during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Mrs. Whiteside is currently a social work doctoral student at The University of Louisville researching the impact of perinatal mood disorders, as evidence indicates that depression and other mood disorders in parents can have a harmful impact on children, including cognitive difficulties, insecure attachment, and behavioral problems.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 36 ratings

Ebonie Williams

LPCC, 12 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Direct
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Addiction
Coping Skills
Depression
+9
I have been a therapist for over 12 years. I understand that life presents it challenges and that my job is to help you navigate those challenges so that you can live the life you deserve. You are the expert in your life I greatly appreciate you willing to let me on this journey with you. I believe that this is your journey and i am just along to give assistance on the way.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 84 ratings

Ayse Darnell

LPCC, 10 years of experience

Open-minded
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Autism
Trauma and PTSD
+6
Do you always seem to be struggling on the fringes or even have intense trauma, anxiety, or depression? Are you from a minority population, or a marginalized group? You deserve to have a space of healing and complete acceptance to further explore, grow, and understand yourself. It is my goal as a provider to work on what YOU want to work on during your journey of growth and healing. You are your own expert, I'm just here to keep us on the path. I am a Half-Turkish LPCC-S who specializes in EMDR, cultural diversity, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ concerns, alternative lifestyles, and neurodivergent populations. I am intensely passionate about meeting clients where they are and working on goals collaboratively with clients and any supports in their lives with whatever method that works the best for them. Starting therapy no matter how many times you may have tried before, can be frightening but I am here to help make this process go smoothly! Let us work together and see where your life can go, and how it can change!
Virtual
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 157 ratings

Tracey Zion

LCSW, 20 years of experience

Solution oriented
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQ
Congratulations on taking the first step to wellness! Hi, my name is Tracey and I am a clinically licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience supporting, educating, and assisting people like you who want to make some positive changes in their lives. I provide a safe and nonjudgemental space for you to identify what's not working in your life and causing you to feel unwell. Using a whole self approach and addressing the issues that are most relevant to you, I use tools and strategies that will lead to positive changes and wellness. Whether you are experiencing a life challenge, having issues with relationships, or struggling with feeling well emotionally, I look forward to the opportunity to help you discover new ways to improve, heal, and grow. Thank you for considering sharing your journey with me. I look forward to meeting you.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 28 ratings

Helena Lear

LCSW, 9 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+8
Hi, I'm Helena (Hell-in-uh)! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with almost 10 years of experience! I like to emphasize that at the heart of my practice, I am a Social Worker and I approach my work from that perspective. I acknowledge that there are barriers we all experience to living our best lives and that certain people experience more and worse barriers because of who they are. My work is most rewarding when I get to help folks level the playing field by accessing the support, validation and compassion they need.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 34 ratings

Vanessa Sewell

LPCC, 5 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Humorous

Specialties

Mood Disorders
Recent Hospitalization
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Hi! My name is Vanessa Sewell and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I received my Bachelor's Degrees in Psychology and History from Western Kentucky University and my Master's Degree in Counseling and Human Development from Lindsey Wilson College. I am currently a doctoral student in Lindsey Wilson University's Counselor Education and Supervision program (and yes, they changed their name). I have spent time counseling individuals from ages 4-80 in community mental health, foster care, and inpatient behavioral health settings for the last 5+ years. I have worked in the mental health field for more than 15 years.
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Rated 4.8 stars out of 5, 13 ratings

Karen Reiss

LCSW, 21 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Women's Issues
+10
Hi, I am honored you are taking time out of your busy day to consider me as your therapist. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania and Kentucky. I received my Masters in Social Work from Marywood University and have been practicing for 20+ years. I assist individuals like you — thoughtful, resilient, and ready to face the hard things, even when they feel confusing or uncertain - through empathy, compassion, and challenge.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 27 ratings

Jade Knight

LCSW, 11 years of experience

Empowering
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, based in Kentucky. I received my Masters from the University of Kentucky and have been practicing for 11 years. I help teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression and trauma to overcome these challenges. Together we will make a plan to help you achieve your goals and live your best life. Change is possible! PLS MSG ME DIRECTLY TO SCHEDULE. I am having calendar sync issues. Thanks!
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 88 ratings

Angelia Hunter

LCSW, 25 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anger Management
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
+6
Hey there!! I am a Licensed Clincial Social Worker based in Kentucky. I have provided therapy to clients for 25 years. I really enjoy gettting to know you as a person and develop a treatment plan that will benefit you the most. Time does not heal trauma, painful experiences, and behavior patterns that need to change. Let me help you find the best YOU!!! I have been married for 25 years and have two wonderful daughters and two dogs. I want to use your strengths to heal and improve your life.
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No reviews yet

Kimberly Calhoun

LPCC, 12 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Addiction
Substance Misuse
Women's Issues
+2
"Healing takes courage, and we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it. ~Tori Amos Healing takes courage, and I believe we all have that courage—even if we have to dig a little to find it. Over the past ten years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals through addiction, depression, anxiety, and major life transitions. I understand that everyone encounters difficult moments, and sometimes the most powerful step forward begins with being truly heard. I come from a large family in eastern Kentucky and now live with my spouse, our dog, and our cat. Earning my Master’s degree later in life deepened my empathy and perspective, reminding me that growth can happen at any age. In sessions, I focus on the present moment and meet each client exactly where they are, emotionally and mentally. My approach is grounded in patience, understanding, and the belief that healing happens one step at a time. My goal is to walk alongside you as you build the life and sense of self you’ve been striving toward.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 128 ratings

Jamie N. Bell

LPCC, 6 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
Hi there, I'm Jamie. In life, do you often feel as if you are driving alone down a dark road and are sometimes overcome with the burdens of everyday life? Is it hard for you to be kind to yourself? Do you feel that depression or anxiety is taking away your joy? Let me help you get that joy back. Seeking therapy can be scary but you are making the right choice. You are in the driver's seat. I am merely a passenger, with the necessary tools to assist you in finding the light at the end of the tunnel. I utilize an interpersonal approach that is specific to your needs to assess the situation and provide guidance along the way. My goal is to meet you where you are in your journey and help you get where you want to be. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll help you with compassion and evidence-based techniques, so you can overcome the 3 H’s – hangups, hardships, and habits- that are holding you back. I can't wait to meet and talk so we can work together to reach your goals!
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 63 ratings

Valarie Collins

LPCC, 20 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Women's Issues
+5
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Kentucky. I attended Northern Kentucky University for my degree in Psychology and attended the University of Cincinnati for my Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling. I have worked for the last 20 years in the mental health and addictions field. I work specifically with women to address areas and types of anxiety, trauma, depression, and addiction to empower them to make their lives more manageable.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 15 ratings

John Warner

LCSW, 25 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
Crisis Intervention
Serious Mental Illness
+4
Welcome to GrowTherapy I'm John Warner and I'm looking forward to working with you. I'd like you to acknowledge this step that you have taken to reach out. It takes motivation, insight, and courage to seek changes in your life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Louisville, Kentucky and I specialize in working with people who are either struggling with Substance Abuse or Mental Health issues, or who are trying to support a Loved One who is struggling with these issues, and feels overwhelmed by the circumstances. I provide a safe and supportive environment for you to explore the issues that are concerning you now. I believe that you are the expert on the things that do and don't work in your life but when life becomes overwhelming, we can sometimes lose sight of these skills and knowledge. I have found that many people often underestimate how much they know about themselves and others, and underestimate the strength that they posess to cope with and overcome the struggles that they experience. much more about themselves than they give themselves credit for, and I see part of my role as helping you unlock this knowledge and apply it in your life in ways that work best for you. While there may be times that you feel like you are not making progress, you will find that you are making more progress than you realize. We sometimes have more difficulty seeing the progress and positive qualities than we do in others. I will help guide you to see the strength and goodness that you possess and help you to see that the overall arc of our lives bends towards improvement
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 1 ratings

Greg Maynard

LCSW, 10 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Dissociative Disorders
+7
I have over 12 years of experience in behavioral health, supporting individuals in both inpatient and outpatient treatment. I work with people navigating anxiety, depression, anger, family stress, and substance use, as well as those who feel stuck or uncertain about their next steps. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and focused on creating a safe space where clients feel heard and supported.
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Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Kentucky rather than a city like Louisville?

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 Kentucky from Bowling Green to Lexington! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Kentucky.

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.