Optum Therapists in Kentucky

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 144 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: 1/18/2026

Rated 5.0 stars out of 566 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 566 ratings
Warm
Open-minded
Authentic

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.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 4.7 stars out of 546 ratings
Rated 4.7 stars out of 546 ratings

Specialties

Couples Counseling
Depression
Substance Misuse
+10
Hello, I’m Dr. Warrick Stewart. I am a Board-Certified Psychotherapist, licensed to practice in Georgia, South Carolina, Kentucky, and North Carolina. At the heart of my work is a deep compassion for people who are navigating life’s hardest seasons. I specialize in helping individuals and couples facing trauma, emotional pain, self-doubt, and the struggles that come with anger, substance use, and depression. My role is to walk alongside you, offering evidence-based approaches such as reality-based and solution-focused therapy, while always tailoring our work to meet your unique needs. In my practice, clients find a warm, nonjudgmental, and supportive environment where they are safe to be themselves. Here, you can speak your truth, confront what has been holding you back, and begin the process of healing. I am eclectic in my methods—drawing from a variety of therapeutic techniques—because I believe every person deserves an approach as unique as their story. I strive to be thorough but kind, authentic yet gentle, and always deeply respectful of the courage it takes to begin therapy. My goal is to help you process your experiences, rediscover your strengths, and move forward toward a life filled with meaning and possibility. Healing takes willingness and effort, but you don’t have to walk the journey alone. Together, we can create a path toward growth, resilience, and lasting change. Let’s get started today.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 4.9 stars out of 5117 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 5117 ratings
Empowering
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+1
Hello! My name is Amaris and I'm happy you're here :) Do you ever feel confused by your behavior? Do you act in ways that are incongruent with who you want to be? Do you struggle with self-doubt and wish you could have more confidence? There are always reasons why people do the things they do. My approach is to help alleviate shame and unnecessary guilt by helping clients understand the “why” behind their emotions and behaviors. I use a trauma-informed approach with all my clients and aim to create an emotionally safe space to explore vulnerable thoughts and feelings. Sometimes personal growth means accepting that you're either going to deal with your stuff, or your stuff is going to deal with you. Therapy is a great place to start the healing process.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 5.0 stars out of 519 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 519 ratings
Solution oriented
Authentic

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
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 4.9 stars out of 5142 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 5142 ratings
Authentic
Open-minded
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+17
Life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows; it can be filled with challenges, difficulties, and hardships. I believe that life is all about perspective and the way we react to problems. Our trials and tribulations are opportunities for us to grow into stronger and wiser individuals. When challenges arise, most people ask, "Why?" I encourage my clients to change their mentality by asking, "How?"—how can I use this to grow and learn, make myself smarter and wiser?" I am a firm believer in empowering clients with the tools and knowledge needed to live a more fulfilling and productive life. With 8 years of sobriety and personal experience battling my own challenges, I know how helpful therapy can be in helping a person rebuild their life and become the person they want to be.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 5.0 stars out of 567 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 567 ratings
Open-minded
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Anger Management
+1
As a seasoned therapist, my experience includes a broad spectrum of mental health issues. I have a network of physicians, mental health providers, and spiritual advisors whose counsel I seek to help provide the best care for my clients. It is my goal to lead clients to ask the right questions and help them find answers that will result in a positive, forward movement in the therapeutic process. My primary focus is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, but I use other modalities when necessary to help clients achieve the change they are seeking. My practice includes marriage and family counseling, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, aging concerns, workplace challenges, mediation, and faith-based counseling upon request. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and issues, helping them develop coping skills and move forward positively. I collaborate with a network of professionals to provide the best care. If I or the client feels I am not the right fit, I will help find someone better suited, without it affecting my self-esteem.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 5.0 stars out of 575 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 575 ratings
Authentic
Open-minded
Warm

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.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 5.0 stars out of 51 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 51 ratings
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Grief
LGBTQ
Sexual Abuse
+10
Hello, I am Joe Kephart, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker based in Lexington, Kentucky. I bring over 20 years of leadership experience and a strong background in mental health, social work, and supportive care. I’ve worked in private practice and healthcare settings, providing psychosocial assessments, treatment planning, and integrated care. I specialize in working with: Restaurant and Hospitality Workers, from executives to hourly employee, struggling with burnout, addiction, anxiety/stress, or work-life imbalance, Grief & Loss – including divorce, illness, and non-death losses, LGBTQ+ Clients – affirming, inclusive, and identity-supportive therapy, and Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse & Trauma. I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Kentucky, and I’m passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges with compassion, collaboration, and practical support. Everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and supported — especially in the moments when life feels overwhelming, complicated, or painful. I specialize in helping adults navigate grief, addiction, trauma, and identity with compassion and clarity. My practice is grounded in creating a safe, judgment-free space where you can explore difficult emotions, reclaim your voice, and begin to heal. I blend evidence-based practices such as trauma-informed CBT, mindfulness, and narrative therapy with a relational, person-centered approach. You’ll find me warm, honest, and direct — someone who will walk alongside you with both empathy and accountability. Healing is hard work, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re ready to begin or continue your journey, I’m here to help.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 4.9 stars out of 5147 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 5147 ratings
Solution oriented
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+3
Hi there, I am Dr. Smith. Do you need a therapist who encourages, motivates and instills hope that empowers you to take control of your struggles so you can live out the best version of yourself? Life, Love and relationships often come with unique challenges that can make us feel like we are being pulled in many directions. These challenges are combined with work and financial stress that can often leave us exhausted and dissatisfied with life. I help individuals, couples and families identify stressors so that together we can begin the healing process and improve your quality of life and relationships. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse or relationship issues I am here to help. I use an approach centered around compassion, empathy, and the belief that all of us have worth and dignity. The evidence-based techniques used will give you hope while working toward the change that led you to therapy.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 5.0 stars out of 548 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 548 ratings
Warm
Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
+2
I’m a mental health professional dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and enhance their well-being. Through approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and strength-based strategies, I support clients in identifying their strengths, overcoming obstacles, and achieving their personal goals. My goal is to create a safe, collaborative space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, fostering growth and resilience along the way.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 4.9 stars out of 536 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 536 ratings
Open-minded
Warm

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.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 5.0 stars out of 51 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 51 ratings

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Life isn’t meant to be just about survival—you deserve more than just getting by. I’m here to help you discover a brighter, more fulfilling future where you can truly thrive. My name is Lauren, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Lexington, Kentucky. With over 11 years of experience in social work and 4 years of experience as a mental health clinician, I’ve worked with individuals facing some of life’s toughest challenges. Using approaches like CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness, I tailor therapy to meet your unique needs and goals. My number one priority is creating a safe, compassionate space where you feel seen, heard, and supported. I know how overwhelming life’s challenges can feel, and I believe that no one should have to face them alone. Therapy is a space where we can face the hard things together, build trust, and work toward healing. Safety and understanding are the foundation of our work because without them, true growth isn’t possible.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 4.8 stars out of 517 ratings
Rated 4.8 stars out of 517 ratings
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.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
No reviews yet
No reviews yet

New to Grow

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Grief
+4
I'm a dedicated therapist with several years of experience serving in Central Kentucky. I've had the privilege of working with adolescents in school settings and individuals in rural areas. My experience has allowed me to help clients navigate a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, ADHD, and grief. I'm committed to providing a safe and supportive space where you can explore your emotions, gain insights, and develop effective coping strategies.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 4.7 stars out of 519 ratings
Rated 4.7 stars out of 519 ratings
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Anger Management
Coping Skills
+8
The journey of life can bumpy, confusing, frustrating, and unpredictable. Hello, I'm Dr. Suzann O'Koon, a licensed psychologist with 30 years of experience. I'm a mother and grandmother, who, at mid-life, returned to graduate school to pursue my the next step on my life journey. I had been an elementary school teacher, a community volunteer, and then a stay-at-home mom. I am sharing this with you because transitions and change can be difficult at times, and I've been there: done that!.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 5.0 stars out of 57 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 57 ratings
Warm
Solution oriented

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.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 5.0 stars out of 5120 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 5120 ratings
Authentic
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Welcome my friends. I’m a combat veteran and retired Army officer, a devout Christian, husband, father, grandfather, and experienced clinical psychologist. I want to get into the root causes of your battle and find ways to overcome, change, forgive, accept, and move upward toward the light. It may not seem like it, but the darkness will eventually lift, and the light will surely shine again. Life is a battle in the heart, and I humbly accept that I will be in my own battle or someone else’s battle for the rest of my life. Like the weather, our emotions are powerful. Many days the sun shines, but the rains do come and sometimes a destructive storm hits hard (divorce, the loss of a loved one, cancer, suicidal thoughts, et cetera). It's a battlefield. When it comes to the challenge of relationships, so often, it is ego (pride), self-esteem, and powerful emotions at the root of our conflicts. To understand these forces is the key to peace. Let's work through it! I have been honored to be in the field of psychology for 20 years since 2004. Through the years, more than half of my time was in the Army where I primarily worked with soldiers enduring anxiety, depression, trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury, and all the other usual suspects of psychological distress. It is time well spent to analyze our guilt, fear, worry, shame, pain, heartbreak, addiction, identity conflicts, and sorrow. I’ve also worked in the prisons for many years with some extreme situations (i.e., murder, severe mental illness, rape, child molestation, drug kingpins, gang leaders). So, no matter what your circumstances are, never quit and never give up! Survival is a noble plight!
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 4.8 stars out of 516 ratings
Rated 4.8 stars out of 516 ratings
Open-minded
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
+10
I am a skilled and empathetic counselor 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.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 5.0 stars out of 54 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 54 ratings
Holistic
Warm

Specialties

LGBTQ
Sexual Abuse
Trauma and PTSD
+9
My passion is creating a safe, open, and non-judgmental space where you feel seen, heard, understood, and ready to explore life's challenges. I combine my clinical experiences with a genuine, compassionate relational style to help you uncover your inner strength and move towards deeper self-awareness, healing, and empowerment. I currently hold licenses as a LPC-s in Virginia and a LPCC in Kentucky. have been working in the mental health field since 2008 and I specialize in helping clients navigate and heal from trauma. I also help and encourage clients to strive to be more connected with and congruent to self: mind, body, and emotions.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 4.9 stars out of 5141 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 5141 ratings
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!
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 5.0 stars out of 528 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 528 ratings

Often rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Couples Counseling
LGBTQ
Life Transitions
I have over 20 years of experience and provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to adults and couples. I am CBT certified but utilize a blend of therapeutic approaches for clients to gain support and help developing skills .I am very passionate about empowering my clients to maneuver through any hindrances to inner peace and self-love. Let me help you develop skills to get you through some of those difficult transitions. Skills that will empower you and strengthen your foundation in preparation for the expected and unexpected twists and turns of life.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 5.0 stars out of 53 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 53 ratings
Warm
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+4
I am a retired school counselor who began private counseling as my second career. I also have served as an educator for master's level counseling students. This has given me a lot of access to a variety of best practices. I like hearing client stories and helping them to find a better life for themselves. I like using my skills and experience to help people.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 5.0 stars out of 510 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 510 ratings
Direct
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi! My name is Yolmar Rodriguez-Chacon and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I believe that during challenging times, we need someone who is on our side, who understands our situation and can help during dark times. I will serve as a guide, and walk by your side throughout your individual process, while you develop trustworthy insight and learn to understand yourself.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 5.0 stars out of 515 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 515 ratings
Authentic
Humorous
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Family Conflict
Personality Disorders
+4
I work with individuals to enable them to move their lives in a direction that they value. I use a variety of interventions and incorporate mindfulness-based practices as a foundation for my clients. I have worked with all age ranges yet currently, I see exclusively adults (18 and older). My background has allowed me to work extensively with individuals with severe and persistent mental illness. My theoretical orientation is integrative and post-modern. I have substantial experience working with clients presenting with neurodevelopmental disorders, specifically. I also frequently do testing for ADHD if that is a presenting concern.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Rated 5.0 stars out of 541 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 541 ratings
Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Perinatal Mental Health
Trauma and PTSD
+6
Hi, I’m Amy. I live in Missouri with my husband, our sweet dog, and two very sassy cats who keep life lively. Being both a military spouse and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker has shaped who I am, both personally and professionally. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals and families through life’s many transitions, challenges, and seasons of growth. My journey into social work began with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Alaska, followed by a master’s from the University of Maine. For more than 20 years, I’ve been walking alongside people as they navigate anxiety, trauma, infertility, grief, and the everyday pressures of life. What I love most about this work is creating a safe, supportive space where people can feel heard, understood, and empowered to reconnect with themselves. At the heart of my approach is the belief that healing is possible—and that resilience can grow even in the most difficult circumstances. Whether we’re working through painful past experiences or exploring new ways to cope with stress, my goal is to help you find hope, balance, and a deeper sense of self. If you’d like to know more about me and the work I do, you can visit: https://kerstenlcsw.com/
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
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 Kentucky. 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.

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.