Optum Therapists in Kentucky

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 140 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: 11/24/2025

Greg Maynard

LCSW, 10 years of experience

Authentic
Humorous

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+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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Eric Gross

LPCC, 23 years of experience

Solution oriented
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Men's Issues
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Kentucky. I received my Masters from the Bellevue University and received a certificate in advanced graduate studies from Salve Regina University in Holistic Counseling and have been practicing for 16 years. I specialized in helping young adults and men with life issues and transitions as well as teens through adulthood with anxiety, depression, and trauma issues.
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Jonathan Edwards

LPCC, 3 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

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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Kevin Blalock

LCSW, 5 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Crisis Intervention
Depression
+10
Hello! My name is Kevin Blalock. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Kentucky. I have worked as a Referral Clinician for an inpatient psychiatric hospital, as an Inpatient Clinical Therapist, and now an Outpatient Clinical Therapist. I have a diverse background of working with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Trust-Based Relational Intervention. I am a certified Juvenile Sex Offender Therapist in the state of Kentucky, and am currently under supervision to become a Registered Play Therapist. I look forward to speaking with you about your goals for therapy and how I can help!
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Brittain West

LPCC, 20 years of experience

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.
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Alicia Owens

LPCC, 26 years of experience

Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+2
Hi there, I'm Alicia. Do you feel the pressure and stress of daily responsibilities?Having trouble balancing work, school, kids, bills, finances, relationships, parents, health, and time? Are you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, and anxious? Do you find it difficult to cope? Are you finding it hard to be kind to yourself? I help the tired and frazzled learn to relax and find balance and peace in their lives. Together, we can work on finding balance, relaxation and inner peace in your life. Whether you are overwhelmed and dealing with difficult relationships, work burnout, cycling depression and anxiety, I am here for you! Beginning therapy can feel scary, but you are making the right choice. You deserve to be happy, to heal and to grow in a safe space. I will meet you with compassion, humor, and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the challenges in your life. Let's start your journey together!
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Maureen Worden

LCSW, 3 years of experience

Warm
Empowering

Specialties

ADHD
Autism
Depression
+5
I’m a mental health professional dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion, clarity, and evidence-based care. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, my goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your unique needs. I draw from modalities such as CBT, DBT, Play Therapy techniques, Solution Focused, ERP, and mindfulness to name a few. I am guided by the belief that healing is possible and that every person deserves to live a life of meaning and connection. Clients often describe me as warm, insightful, and present. I believe therapy is not just about solving problems—it’s about discovering your strengths, rewriting old narratives, and building a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. If you’re ready to take the next step, I’m here to walk alongside you.
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Megan Meeks

LCSW, 6 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Solution oriented
Open-minded

Specialties

Addiction
LGBTQ
Trauma and PTSD
Hello! Are you having trouble finding balance in life? Do you find it difficult to make your actions and intentions align? Are you struggling to connect to people in meaningful ways? I help people find more calm, peace and headspace in life. I will always meet you right where you are. As our starting point, we will identify what is keeping you from being the best version of yourself. I am passionate about integrating mindfulness, yoga and education about our nervous system to develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you’re dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues, a traumatic past, increased substance use, or cycles of anxiety and depression, I’m here to help. I offer a non-judgmental space, using evidence-based treatments where you may heal and grow.
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Vanessa Sewell

LPCC, 5 years of experience

Humorous
Authentic
Warm

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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Leo Bowman

LCSW, 5 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

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.
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Jessica Gibo

LMFT, 5 years of experience

Specialties

Grief
Serious Mental Illness
Spirituality
+9
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, in Kentucky. I have over 13 years of experience in healthcare and mental health. I work with individuals, families, and couples across the life span. I typically see clients ages 14 and above. I have had success with short term (3-5 sessions) and long term (weekly or bi-weekly) therapy sessions. I provide couples counseling services as a Prepare and Enrich provider, and a Gottman-informed therapist. I also offer Premarital Counseling services. I offer assessments and will work with you to advocate for your individual needs with your medical providers, workplace or school.
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Heather Kirkland

LPCC, 11 years of experience

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.
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Ebonie Williams

LPCC, 12 years of experience

Solution oriented
Warm
Empowering

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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Karen Reiss

LCSW, 21 years of experience

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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Lynn Squicciarini

LCSW, 25 years of experience

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Parenting
+10
Hello. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been practicing for over 20 years. I work with adults, couples, and families including children, and adolescents. My goal is to work with each person individually from a person-centered perspective. I want you to feel that you are in control of your progress by identifying your needs and focusing on your strengths . My specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, behavioral challenges, post-partum depression, parenting, chronic illness, and grief. I am available to see clients in Kentucky in-person or telehealth, and Michigan or Minnesota via telehealth. The person centered approach means that the client is the center of everything from the initial assessment, to the development of the goals, to the treatment that is provided. It is important that you know you are accepted and with therapy you are able to address the concerns you have and learn to effectively work through them. I understand therapy can feel uncomfortable and the thought of sharing yourself with someone you don't know (yet) can be overwhelming. Give me a call and we can talk for an initial conversation to see if it will be a good fit.
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Sarah Mulberry-Barrier

LCSW, 20 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Grief
Post Partum
Women's Issues
+3
Hi, I’m Sarah, a reproductive mental health therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through the many transitions of family building. Are you facing challenges with fertility, pregnancy, postpartum adjustment, or loss? Whether you’re coping with infertility, grieving a pregnancy loss, or navigating the emotional highs and lows of pregnancy and parenthood, please know—you’re not alone. I understand firsthand the complex emotions that can arise during these deeply personal experiences. Drawing from both my clinical expertise and personal journey, I offer compassionate, evidence-based care to help you find balance, healing, and hope. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in reproductive mental health, I provide a holistic, therapeutic approach tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll explore your story, strengthen your relationships, and support your transition to parenthood within a safe and nurturing space. I currently offer individual therapy via telehealth to clients in Pennsylvania and Kentucky. To learn more about my approach, please visit www.MulberryTherapeutic.com. I look forward to connecting with you and walking alongside you on your journey.
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Lucas Stinnett

LPCC, 6 years of experience

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.
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Susan Buckman

LCSW, 8 years of experience

Direct
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+8
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Kentucky. I completed my masters degree in social work at the University of Louisville and have been in practice for 8 years. I use a client-centered therapeutic approach that incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). I have personally experienced many of life's ups and downs and can relate to the problems many of my clients are experiencing.
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Dr. Diedre Wade

LPCC, 15 years of experience

Empowering
Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Self Esteem
+10
Hello! I'm Dr. Diedre Wade, and I'm honored to walk alongside of you to better your life. I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Supervisor in Kentucky and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety or self-esteem, and/or self-care. I have a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, so my full-time job is teaching counselors-in-training how to help their own future clients. I also have a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling with over 13 years' experience working in private practice, inpatient behavioral health, residential treatment, Drug Court, and a jail. These different settings have developed me into a compassionate and caring provider who is eager to help! I'm a former competitive bodybuilder, so I know how pressures of sport and goals can lead to perfectionism and anxiety. After trips to Africa, I renamed my practice Acacia Vitality: I got to see some mighty Acacia trees (along with animals who love them)! These trees stand the test of time and survive elephants shaking them as well. Like the acacia tree that thrives in the harshest conditions, true mental toughness and resilience grow strongest through adversity. I was so inspired by this concept that I now center my practice and research around it.
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Jami Ivey

LCSW, 25 years of experience

Authentic
Direct
Challenging

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+9
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Tennessee but also licensed in Kentucky. I received my Master's Degree from the University of Louisville. I have over 25 years of experience working clients of all ages in a variety of settings. I currently focus on helping adults and adolescents with difficulties they are struggling with, so they can be the best version of themselves.
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Dr. Kelli Stephens

LCSW, 6 years of experience

Warm
Authentic

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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Brenda Hodges

LPCC, 13 years of experience

Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Brenda Hodges, M.A., M.S., is a licensed mental health professional with over 14 years of dedicated experience in therapeutic counseling. Holding dual master's degrees in Psychology and Rehabilitation Counseling, she brings a comprehensive approach to mental wellness, serving clients across Kentucky and Florida. Known for her warm, approachable demeanor, Brenda specializes in treating individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and survivors of violence and abuse. Her therapeutic style creates a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their challenges and work toward healing. Throughout her career, Brenda has helped individuals reclaim their lives and develop resilience in the face of trauma. Her dual licensure in Kentucky and Florida reflects her commitment to expanding access to quality mental health care across multiple communities. Brenda views her role as more than just a profession—it's a calling. She considers it both an honor and a privilege to guide clients through their healing journeys, drawing on her extensive education and experience to provide personalized, evidence-based support for each individual she serves.
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Aaron Atwood

LPCC, 10 years of experience

Authentic
Open-minded
Humorous

Specialties

Addiction
ADHD
Family Conflict
+14
Hello, I am looking forward to working with you. I do not say help, I say working with, as we are in this together. I hope to be able to provide you with the tools and the skills that you need to overcome and deal with life on life's terms. I also am flexible with appointment times, my calendar reflects when I am able to meet with little notice.
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John Warner

LCSW, 25 years of experience

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
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Christy Morris

LCSW, 10 years of experience

Warm
Authentic

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Kentucky. I have worked in the social service/mental health field for over 14 years to include CPS investigations, psychiatric residential, Michelle P Waiver case management, and Substance Abuse Program (SAP). I received my Master of Social Work from the Carver School of Social Work at Campbellsville University in 2015 and have been practicing for 8 years. I have recently been trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy which is an eye movement modality that can help reduce or eliminate negative sensations in as little as one session. I strive to provide therapeutic care where each individual feels safe and secure in each session buy creating a judgment-free atmosphere. My goal is to build mutual trust with each other and help you find your path to taking control back of your life and emotions.
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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.