Optum Therapists in Kentucky

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 146 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: 1/28/2026

Rated 4.7 stars out of 548 ratings
Rated 4.7 stars out of 548 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
Rated 5.0 stars out of 520 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 520 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
Rated 5.0 stars out of 54 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 54 ratings

Often rebooked

Warm
Empowering

Specialties

ADHD
Autism
Depression
+9
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.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 514 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 514 ratings
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+9
Welcome! I am a warm, non-judgemental and real person. One of my basic tenants is we, as people, are doing the best we can, and sometimes our conscious or subconscious "plan" to take care of ourselves is just not working anymore. Sometimes we need to develop a new “plan” but that can be difficult and we need help. The relationship with ourselves, family, friends and our community is a pillar to good health and well being. However things get in the way….like trauma, substance use, addiction, depression, anxiety, loneliness, illness, & fear. I want to support your concerns and help you improve your sense of wellbeing.
VirtualAvailable
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
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
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
No reviews yet
No reviews yet

New to Grow

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Mood Disorders
+8
Hello, I’m Joy Messer, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor dedicated to helping children, teens, and adults navigate life’s challenges with compassion and practical support. I use evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Play Therapy to help clients build insight, resilience, and healthier coping skills. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming space where clients can explore their emotions, heal from past experiences, and move toward personal growth and emotional well-being.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 51 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 51 ratings
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Crisis Intervention
Depression
+7
Hello! I'm a native Kentuckian with two degrees from the University of Kentucky including a masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. I also have close ties to Oregon where I worked for over 10 years on a crisis mental health team. I provided care and compassion to individuals who were struggling to cope through crises brought about by trauma, depression, loss, psychosis and more. My interventions were typically brief as my goal was to help folks move through their crisis and make plans for follow up care. Now I get to provide ongoing services and do a deep dive into the problems that left alone can lead to a crisis. I enjoy supporting people as they learn and discover better ways to cope and uncover their own strong sense of resilience.
VirtualAvailable
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
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
Rated 5.0 stars out of 561 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 561 ratings
Authentic
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+9
After 30+ years in executive roles at leading hospitals and health systems—including Kaiser Permanente, Mount Sinai, and Northwestern Memorial—I’m thrilled to launch my private therapy practice. My career has always focused on helping people thrive, whether by supporting families and or individuals during tough times or developing talent. I grew up in Chicago’s Rogers Park, shaped by its culture and my father’s resilience as a Holocaust survivor. His stories taught me empathy and strength—values I bring to every client interaction. I hold an MSW from Loyola University, am licensed in AZ, FL, IL, KY, NM, and WV, and earned an MBA from North Park University plus an executive management certification from USC. Life has taken me across the U.S. and abroad, enriching my perspective. Outside work, I love traveling, hiking, reading, and exploring art. Married for 40+ years, I live in New Mexico with my British wife and our Yorkie, Kugel. My philosophy: positivity, confidence, and persistence—never give up on yourself.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 56 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 56 ratings
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Spirituality
Trauma and PTSD
+10
My journey into counseling was shaped by years of serving others on the frontlines and witnessing the physical, emotional, and spiritual impact of trauma firsthand. I bring that same sense of compassion, discipline, and calm under pressure into the therapy space. I believe that healing involves the whole person, including the mind, body, and spirit. My approach blends evidence-based clinical methods with Christian principles when desired, helping clients not only manage symptoms but also rediscover meaning, identity, and purpose. Whether we are unpacking trauma, building coping tools, or walking through a season of growth, my goal is to create a safe space where you can heal honestly and at your own pace.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.9 stars out of 5149 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 5149 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
Rated 5.0 stars out of 548 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 548 ratings
Warm
Open-minded
Intelligent

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
Rated 5.0 stars out of 59 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 59 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
Rated 4.8 stars out of 518 ratings
Rated 4.8 stars out of 518 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
Rated 4.9 stars out of 523 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 523 ratings
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Military/Veterans
+8
I am career Clinical Psychotherapist devoted to aiding individuals, couples, adults. teens, families, and veterans suffering emotional stress and mental health issues. My priorities focus on persons experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, relationship and communication problems, grief and trauma recovery. I am committed to illustrating how the vital quality of resilience can be acquired through learned coping skills and accurate self=perception. Activating improvement plans, achieving goals, and building confidence are the center of my person-centered counseling.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.9 stars out of 572 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 572 ratings
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.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.9 stars out of 57 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 57 ratings

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.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 521 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 521 ratings

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.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.9 stars out of 5172 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 5172 ratings
Authentic
Humorous
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I am a LPCC-S in Kentucky with over 10 years of experience that include working as a treatment director and therapist of a mental health facility. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, DMDD, ODD, PTSD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse, and I am certified for TF-CBT and working on the trauma narrative. I have worked with all ages which includes children (6-12), adolescents (13-20), and adults.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 534 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 534 ratings
Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

Addiction
Mood Disorders
Perinatal Mental Health
+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.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.9 stars out of 511 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 511 ratings
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.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 5121 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 5121 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
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 happens during the first therapy 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.