Optum Therapists in Louisiana

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 48 verified therapists in Louisiana 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: 6/30/2025

Denise Smith Baril

(she/her)

Denise Smith Baril, LCSW - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! I am Denise. Does life feel out of control? Too quick? Too stressful? Have you experienced a loss? I specialize and hold certifications in grief, trauma, youth mental health, ADHD and Autism. I have spent many years working with families, teenagers and adults by helping identify and resolve problems with some techniques to help. I am looking forward to working with you!

Janel McDonald

(she/her)

Janel McDonald, LPC - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! Thank you for your time! I'm Janel McDonald, and I aim to provide compassionate, non-judgmental, empathetic care. My mission is to ease your apprehension and provide you with a safe and comfortable place to discuss your specific motivation for seeking counseling services. I served in the military for 22 years and have experience working with military veterans and civilians through some of the most challenging transitions in their lives. In the past four years, I have been working with clients by meeting via telehealth in their homes and the community to overcome barriers to treatment (e.g., transportation and childcare). My job as your therapist is to address the areas in your life where you need help. You don't have to do it alone. So, whenever you're ready, don't hesitate to get in touch with me, and let me share your path to grow towards a better tomorrow.

B Davis

(she/her)

B Davis, LPC - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! First let me say thank you for taking the first steps to feeling like the best version of yourself! My name is Brittanee’ and I am a Registered Social Worker and a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor for the state of Louisiana and a Licensed Professional Counselor for the state of Texas. I love everything about mental health and that is why I am here. I believe with proper guidance and a certain amount of knowledge and compassion every person can find their purpose in life. I specialize in trauma, dual diagnosis, postpartum depression, anxiety disorders, depression and a host of other mental health related disorders. I’m an eclectic therapist who will meet you where you are however; I believe CBT is always a great starting point. Looking forward to working with you!

Carol B Williams

Carol B Williams, LPC - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
18 years of experience
Virtual
I have over 18 years experience with a variety of age group, backgrounds, and culturally clients. I want to improve your quality of life. I have the privilege of working with a vast variety of people and enjoy the opportunity to improve their quality of life. I use an individualized approach with therapy. You will play an active role in your treatment.

Jennifer Clesi

Jennifer Clesi, LCSW - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
35 years of experience
Virtual
With 35 years of experience as a social worker, I have had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages—from children and teens to couples and families. Over the years, I have honed a deep understanding of the unique challenges people face, whether it's managing depression, anxiety, or navigating difficult life transitions. As a stepmother of 38 years, I bring firsthand experience with the complexities of stepfamily dynamics, and I specialize in helping blended families find harmony. I believe in the power of a compassionate, collaborative approach to therapy. As a good listener, I am committed to working alongside you to create a treatment plan that reflects your unique needs and aspirations. Together, we'll focus on your goals and take meaningful steps towards you becoming the best version of yourself. I am excited about the opportunity to work with you and support your journey to healing and growth.

Stephen Roser

(he/him)

Stephen Roser, LCSW - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
18 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, I'm Stephen. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help people manage anxiety and depression. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self-approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness and art to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!

NaToya Cook

(she/her)

NaToya Cook, LCSW - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based on Texas, also licensed to serve clients in Louisiana. I received my Master Degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. I help adults struggling with personal and/or family conflict, as well as recent declines in psychiatric symptoms. I also help individuals newly diagnosed with understanding their diagnosis including identifying symptoms and trigger.

Keyonne Spencer

Keyonne Spencer, LPC - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
I'm Keyonne Spencer, a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor with a passion for mental health and wellness. Originally from the vibrant city of New Orleans, I've dedicated the past ten years to providing compassionate and effective therapy in my private practice. I hold a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Capella University, equipping me with the skills to address a wide range of relational and individual issues. In my practice, I specialize in working with individuals and couples ages 13 and up who are grappling with anxiety, depression, and various other mental health challenges. Drawing from evidence-based practices and my integrative approach, I strive to create a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. I believe in the power of collaboration and tailor my therapeutic approach to meet each client's unique needs and goals. Whether utilizing cognitive-behavioral techniques to address specific symptoms or delving into psychodynamic exploration to uncover underlying patterns, my aim is to empower clients to navigate life's challenges and cultivate resilience. Beyond my work as a therapist, I find joy in exploring the world through travel and indulging in my guilty pleasure of binge-watching HGTV shows. These pursuits recharge my spirit and inspire creativity, allowing me to bring fresh perspectives and energy to my practice. Overall, my mission is to guide individuals and couples on their journey toward healing, growth, and fulfillment, both within themselves and in their relationships. I'm deeply committed to helping my clients build resilience, strengthen connections, and embrace the fullness of life's possibilities.

JohnNeiska Williams

(she/her)

JohnNeiska Williams, LPC - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
7 years of experience
Virtual
Feeling lost in the chaos of life? Struggling with bipolar, BPD, DID, or the tough stuff most therapists won’t touch? Hi, My name is John’Neiska "JoJo" Williams and I am a licensed professional counselor in the states TX, GA LA, and I can assure you, you’ve come to the right place. So kick off your shoes, relax your feet, but let’s get real and talk ‘What’s tea?’ Therapy isn’t just venting—I’m not here for small talk. I have a laid-back vibe, but make no mistake—I’m here to challenge, teach, and help you grow with real change. No clichés, no endless “How does that make you feel?” My behavioral approach helps you break cycles, not just talk about them. If you’re ready to do the work, I’m here to help you reclaim control and transform—because you matter too. The tools I provide aren’t just theories—I’ve spent my career perfecting them to help people like you. My humanistic, person-centered approach integrates Gestalt, exposure, and behavioral therapy to create real change. Im a trained DBT and behavioral therapist. I specialize in bipolar, Adverse childhood experience trauma, personality disorders, “mom guilt,” and LGBT concerns. I have certification in DBT and behavioral therapy treatment.

Vanessa Batiste-Leal

(she/her)

Vanessa Batiste-Leal, LPC - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
9 years of experience
Virtual
I provide individual counseling that focuses on establishing goals and developing a plan to build sustainable practices for achieving peak performance in sports and in life. Sports counseling for mental health peak performance with a strength-based approach that assists the athletes in enhancing mental strength and emotional regulation. Topics addressed: anxiety, depression, confidence, injury, focus, recruiting, motivation, relaxation, team roles, consistency, general emotional health, mindfulness, and goal setting.

Duane Williams, MA

Duane Williams, MA, LPC - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
Duane Williams is a Licensed Professional Counselor with the Louisiana LPC Board of Examiners. He is also a Board-Approved Provisional Licensed Professional Counselors (PLPC) Supervisor. He is also a Licensed Professional Counselor with the Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists. He is also a Licensed Professional Counselor with the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors. Mr. Williams earned a Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance from Louisiana Tech University in 2002 and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Northwestern State University. He has over 20 years of professional work experience in various settings, including office, home and community-based, adolescent group homes, adult correctional facilities, and vocational training programs for adolescents and young adults. His expertise encompasses community-based social services, foster care, and mental health. He empathizes with the emotional and developmental needs of individuals and families. He has experience helping clients develop emotional regulation skills to cope with life stressors, including anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting, couple relationships, and child/family conflicts.

Shelldyne Joseph-Vassor

(she/her)

Shelldyne Joseph-Vassor, LCSW - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
Supportive. Culturally Attuned. Results-Focused. Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or emotionally drained? You don’t have to go through it alone. I’m Shelldyne, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, grief, and major life transitions. I provide a compassionate, down-to-earth approach that combines evidence-based strategies with a deep respect for your personal and cultural background. Whether you're dealing with work stress, relationship challenges, or simply need space to breathe and be heard, I'm here to help you feel more balanced, empowered, and in control. As a Haitian-American therapist fluent in Haitian Creole, I specialize in working with diverse populations and understand the unique challenges faced by first-generation individuals and people from communities where mental health is often stigmatized. Let’s work together to uncover your strengths, heal what’s heavy, and build a life that feels more aligned with who you are.

Kujachalia Knapper (Ms. K)

(she/her)

Kujachalia Knapper (Ms. K), LCSW - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
18 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in both Texas and Louisiana. I received my master’s in social work (clinical and mental health) from the University of Houston; my second master’s in clinical psychology from Walden University. I have been in the Helping Profession for 17 years. I help tweens, adolescents, young adults, and adults struggling with questions, thoughts, and behaviors they don’t understand and want some help unraveling their challenges.

Jashonda Atkins

(she/her)

Jashonda Atkins, LPC - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I’m JaShonda Atkins, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisiana and Colorado and the owner of Live Out Loud Counseling and Consulting. I earned my master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Louisiana Tech University and have been in the mental health field for 10 years. My approach is goal-oriented and person-centered, focusing on helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. Using evidence-based techniques, I provide a supportive space—both in-person and via telehealth—where clients can heal, build resilience, and create meaningful change in their lives.

Ja’Nera Johnson

(she/her)

Ja’Nera Johnson, LCSW - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I'm an LCSW-BACS and Louisiana native who practices in both, Texas & Louisiana. I’ve worked with a variety of clinical presentations, in various clinical settings. I have experience working with children, youth, adults, veterans and families. The settings in which I’ve practiced include intense inpatient, clinic, substance use disorder treatment, mental health rehabilitation, correctional rehabilitation facility and school settings. I'm EMDR trained and a recently Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I collaboratively assist clients with improving their self-esteem and self-worth, processing trauma, managing depression and anxiety, challenging negative thought processes, emotion dysregulation, and processing symptoms of grief and mood disorders. This is a collaborative therapeutic process that allows fostering healthy intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships, resolving symptoms of grief and trauma, modifying negative internal narratives, managing anxiety and depression, decreasing emotion dysregulation and dissociating, and fostering one's sense of self. I've worked with adults, families and adolescents who experienced anxiety, depression, family transitions, trauma wounds, anxiety, low self-esteem, PTSD, LGTBQIA transitions, substance use, bipolar mood disorders, personality disorders and several other life challenges etc. I have been so honored to be present throughout my client's journeys of growth, if only to help unburden them from internal suffering. I strive to be both non-judgmental, and collaborative, while challenging those that fear based responses to the environment.

Mayra Alejandra Nieto

(she/her)

Mayra Alejandra Nieto, LPC - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
11 years of experience
Virtual
My mission is to be a servant to others by empowering and helping you on your path to emotional wellness. I have helped children, teens and adults with anxiety, depression, mental health disorders, relationship conflict, and parenting concerns; assisted others to heal from acute abuse, childhood and adult traumas. I am also experienced with persons who have migrated to the US from other countries and the barriers that are encountered with those changes. Whether it be acute crises', life surprises, circumstantial stressors or complex traumas; let me teach you new skills or sharpen the ones you already use to either decrease, eliminate or change negative behaviors or unwanted symptoms. I have worked among many different populations and settings (non-profit organizations, state and government facilities, public education, and now private practice) and have learned to navigate through different challenges and with those experiences I have become a person who is compassionate to unique needs and desires. If there is an area of concern that I'm not able to assist you with I will be honest with you and seek assistance or refer you to a better qualified professional.

Brenda Williams

(she/her)

Brenda Williams, LCSW - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hi I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Masters from Grambling State University in Grambling, Louisiana. I am dedicated clinician with more than 10 years of experience in a variety of behavioral/ mental health concerns. I enjoy helping people overcome the challenges that inevitably occur in life. My goal is to provide client with guidance, skills, and education to deal with the challenges.

Heather Simmons

Heather Simmons, LPC - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi my name is Heather Simmons I’m a LPC with 7 years of practice. I received my masters in 2017 from a university in Ms. I’ve worked with individuals from several different walks of life to help improve their mental well being and increase their quality of life. 90 percent of my services in which I provide are done via telehealth.

Tiffany Shaw

(she/her)

Tiffany Shaw, LCSW - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
29 years of experience
Virtual
I have been a Social Worker for 29 years. I have a bachelor's and master's in Social Work. My primary employment has been with the Department of Children and Family Services for 24 years. I have worked in the capacity of a child protection investigator, a foster care worker, an adoption worker, a child welfare supervisor of all field programs, a child welfare manager, and as a statewide child welfare trainer. As a social worker, my PRN employment includes hospitals (6yrs) mental health and substance abuse (6yrs), hospice (1yr), schools, nursing homes, and assisted living. I am a TBRI practitioner and adoption competent. As a therapist, I am well-rounded with experience and knowledge in many domains. You are the expert of your own life and no one can fix you, but you. The client-therapist relationship is a partnership in healing. My mother was a social worker and I give her homage to the social worker in me.

Anita Obenschain

(she/her)

Anita Obenschain, LCSW - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
You have come here because it is time to work on you. Having cared for others for so long, you are finally ready to start focusing on you and what you want out of your life. You want to explore what it is you need in order to feel fulfilled. You need peace and you are ready to start achieving goals. You have decided it is time for you to be happy and I will be right there to help you in your path to a new you. My experience began with Family Services of Greater New Orleans. I worked with individuals of all ages, couples, and families. Throughout my career, I have provided therapy for couples and families and I have a total 22 years of experience as a clinical therapist. I enjoy the work that I do and I am thankful to be able to help people live better lives. My clients have described me as attentive, thoughtful, focused, caring and compassionate. I have been told that I am a great listener and skillful in applying the right techniques that elicit growth and change.

Shameka Turner

(she/her)

Shameka Turner, LCSW - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Alexandria, Louisiana, with licenses in both Texas and Louisiana. My journey in counseling began in 2007 in administration at a chemical dependency organization, where I first saw the profound impact of professional support on individuals facing addiction. Inspired to help others in a more direct capacity, I returned to school and earned my Bachelor's in Social Work in 2011, followed by a Master's in Social Work in 2013. As a Licensed Addiction Counselor and LCSW, I bring over a decade of experience in helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, including addiction, depression, anxiety, and stress. My approach is grounded in empathy and empowerment, guiding clients toward positive transformation and emotional well-being.

Amanda Elise Dossaji

(she/her)

Amanda Elise Dossaji, LPC - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! Im a Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisiana, South Carolina and Arizona. I received my PhD from the University of New Orleans and have been practicing for 15 years. My approach to counseling encourages clients to confront life's inherent uncertainties and challenges, and to find personal significance and purpose. This therapeutic approach helps individuals understand themselves and their place in the world, fostering a sense of empowerment to make authentic and meaningful choices. I work with clients to encourage psychological flexibility, it empowers individuals to live more fully in the present moment and to pursue a life consistent with their core beliefs and goals, despite the presence of difficult emotions or experiences.

Tami Morlock

Tami Morlock, LCSW - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Change can be scary, but it doesn't have to be. We all face situations throughout life that can make us feel overwhelmed and in need of support, encouragement, strategic planning or goal setting. You are not alone. I provide a safe, warm and friendly environment for growth and healing. You may need support in family life transitions, a parent-child relationship, peers groups, marriage, divorce, social issues, academic challenges or behavioral issues. While we are working together, I take a collaborative approach to help you to achieve your goals and overcome the challenges you're facing in life. I am here to support and empower you on your personal journey. Recognizing when issues in life have become too much to handle alone and seeking assistance is a great first step on your healing journey. It takes a lot of courage to reach out to someone, so I applaud you on taking that first huge step.

Maria Coppersmith

Maria Coppersmith, LCSW - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Warmest greetings to you! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in Texas, as well as a Registered Clinical Hypnotherapist. I received my Master of Social Work degree from Metropolitan State University of Denver. I learned clinical hypnotherapy through PATH (Professional Academy of Therapeutic Hypnosis) and am certified through International Association of Counselors and Therapists (IACT). I strive to help clients achieve a better understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and needs, in order to gain greater clarity and direction in their lives, and to develop the tools to manage overwhelming life experiences. I help people remember the truth about their worth and value, and guide them as they practice living from that truth.

Heather Howlett

(she/her)

Heather Howlett, LPC - Louisiana Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
3 years of experience
Virtual
Hey there! My name is Heather and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas and Louisiana. I graduated from Lamar University in August 2022 with a Masters of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Relevant work experience includes working within the Texas prison system providing mental health services to inmates, working with children under conservatorship of Child Protective Services, and general outpatient case management.

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Louisiana rather than a city like New Orleans?

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 Louisiana from Baton Rouge to Shreveport! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Louisiana.

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.