Optum Therapists in Louisiana

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 58 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: 6/15/2026

Authentic
Direct
Empowering

Specialties

Family Therapy
Military/Veterans
Women's Issues
+10
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisiana. I provide empowering authentic straight forward reality therapy with compassionate, empathy, supportive listening, and understanding to individuals; couples; families, and friends; students; activist; care-takers; community servants; first responders; clergy; healers; church leaders; lay members; and managers; through tele-therapy/virtual and in-person sessions unique to them. My goal is to help you reach your goals and support and advocate for your best interest even when short-term discomfort persist. I believe in spaces where clients have the space to feel heard and validated without judgement. I was born in Chicago Raised in New Orleans Native and joined the Navy after one. year of college. I am currently a veteran married to a veteran with whom I have there adult children with. We know what it is to be battle buddies under the same roof. Education: MS., Human Sciences, Marriage & Family Studies, at Prairie View A&M University; MA., Human Services, Health and Wellness, Counseling from Liberty University; BS., Social Psychology from Park University I am a change agent and because I believe change promotes growth even when it's uncomfortable and looks scary. I also understand it is "grace" that supplies us the "opportunity" to change using our own wisdom, compassion, resiliency, and disciplines. Change is a daily human experience and we decide how we will embrace it. "Self-Forgiveness" and "Self-Acceptance" is necessity to love genuinely. I work with clients who want to explore past traumas, people, places, and situations they believe defied them. I help them navigate life in a realistic meaningful way.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+8
Do you wake up worried about the day ahead before you even get out of bed? At work, are you scared of making mistakes, feeling like everyone’s waiting for you to mess up? When friends invite you out, do you say “yes” but feel nervous inside? At home, instead of relaxing, do you replay awkward moments, wondering what others think of you? If these anxious thoughts make you feel not good enough and exhaust you, you’re not alone. These feelings can undermine your confidence and affect your professional and personal relationships. I’m here to help you find relief and reclaim your sense of calm and control.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Depression
Life Transitions
Older Adults
+6
Hello There ! My name is Tanya Edwards. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have accumulated over 15 years of clinical experiences with diverse populations. My practice focus areas include issues attached to depression, grief, distorted self-image, career challenges, parental caregiving, friendship transitions, and entering new life stages. My practice is geared towards empowerment for growth, sustainment, and more growth!
VirtualAvailable

New to Grow

Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
Welcome. I am Lauren Farrell and I'm an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor). I graduated from Holy Cross University in Algiers (New Orleans) in 2003 and earned my LPC License in 2006. I am grateful to have experience working for 23 years doing my best to walk side by side with my clients helping them to navigate the journey of life through the challenges we all face sometimes. I started my own practice in April of 2010. I look forward to meeting you and working with you whether it is in person or virtually.
Available
Intelligent
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Older Adults
+6
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. I believe in the power of a compassionate, collaborative approach to therapy. Adolescence is a pivotal stage in a person's life, filled with unique challenges and opportunities for growth. As a retired special education social worker and school-based health center social worker from the Jefferson Parish School System, I have found working with teenagers to be particularly rewarding. Teenagers possess a refreshing honesty and openness that makes them receptive to guidance and advice. I have enjoyed the privilege of witnessing the willingness of adolescents to listen and actively engage in making positive changes in their lives. This eagerness to learn and grow is truly inspiring. My experience working with teenagers has highlighted the importance of providing support and guidance during this critical stage of development. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, we can empower adolescents to navigate challenges, overcome obstacles, and strive towards a brighter future. Adolescents have the potential to make meaningful changes for the better, and it is a privilege to be a part of their journey towards self-discovery and personal growth. 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.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Intelligent
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+9
As a licensed therapist with over two decades of experience in New Orleans, Louisiana, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating significant life transitions. My professional journey has been dedicated to helping clients develop resilient coping strategies during challenging periods of personal transformation. I understand that life's changes can feel overwhelming, and I'm committed to providing compassionate, practical guidance that empowers individuals to move forward with confidence and clarity. My approach is grounded in creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, build emotional strength, and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. I welcome clients who are seeking thoughtful, pragmatic support through complex life shifts, offering a steady and understanding presence throughout their therapeutic journey.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Intelligent
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
+7
I have a Doctorate in Psychology and am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I have been working as a therapist for over 16 years. I specialize in mood disorders, anxiety, trauma and LGBTQIA issues. I believe that therapy should be a safe place to talk about personal issues without any judgment. We all need someone to talk to and therapy provides that space where you can be yourself. We all go through some things from time to time and should be able allowed to talk with someone who is willing to listen and provide us with the support that we need.
VirtualAvailable

Specialties

Fertility & Reproduction Issues
Perinatal Mental Health
Postpartum
+3
I’m Ja’Neen. I help women, mothers, and families navigate life’s transitions with compassion, clarity, and support. As both a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a doula, I bring a unique blend of mental health expertise and real-world perinatal experience to my sessions. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, grief, or the challenges of pregnancy and postpartum, I provide a safe space to be seen, supported, and empowered. My approach combines evidence-based practices like DBT and CBT with trauma-informed, holistic care. Above all, my goal is to remind you: you don’t have to walk this journey alone....I’ll be in your village.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

ADHD
Anger Management
Anxiety
I am a compassionate and empathetic therapist who creates a safe and supportive environment for her clients. She listens with genuine care, allowing clients to feel truly heard and understood. Her ability to connect with people helps them open up about their deepest struggles without fear of judgment. Monica guides her clients with patience and kindness, empowering them to find strength within themselves. She uses evidence-based approaches while also tailoring treatment to the unique needs of each individual. Clients often express feeling comforted and uplifted after sessions with her. Monica helps people recognize their own resilience and encourages them to move toward healing and growth. She remains calm and steady even in difficult conversations, providing a sense of stability. Her empathy allows her to meet clients where they are emotionally, fostering trust and progress in therapy. Overall, Monica Jones is deeply committed to helping others find hope, healing, and a renewed sense of well-being.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Solution oriented
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
+2
You are capable, dependable, and used to carrying a great deal on your shoulders. Others often look to you for support, strength, and stability. But even the strongest people can begin to feel emotionally exhausted when stress becomes constant and there is little time to rest, recover, or care for themselves. I specialize in working with healthcare professionals, caregivers, leaders, and high-achieving adults who are experiencing burnout, chronic stress, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm. Many of my clients are functioning well on the outside while internally feeling drained, mentally overloaded, disconnected from themselves, or uncertain about their sense of purpose. With over 13 years of clinical experience across healthcare systems, private practice, and community settings, I understand how prolonged pressure and responsibility can quietly impact emotional well-being. My approach is warm, supportive, and grounded in helping clients slow down, reconnect with themselves, strengthen healthy boundaries, and build a more sustainable and balanced way of living — not just surviving.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented
Intelligent

Specialties

Couples Counseling
Life Transitions
Racism
+8
Hi there! I want to end the stigma associated with seeking help, especially with black and brown people. I have spent years working with adults, couples, and families- helping people reconnect with themselves and each other using a holistic strength based approach. Healing is about learning more about yourself, your needs, and what support you need with no judgement so that you can build the relationships and life that you want as an individual or as a couple. I hold a Ph.D. in Counselor Education, as well as I hold licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of Louisiana.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Addiction Counselor licensed in both Texas and Louisiana, and I’ve spent over a decade helping people through some of life’s most difficult moments. I began my work in 2007 at a chemical dependency organization, where I saw firsthand how meaningful support can change lives. I work with individuals facing addiction, anxiety, depression, and overwhelming stress, and I believe healing happens best in a safe, nonjudgmental space. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, focused on helping you better understand yourself, build on your strengths, and move toward lasting, positive change.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Open-minded
Humorous

Specialties

Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
Peer Relationships
+9
Hi! I am so happy to meet you! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 21 years of experience in behavioral/mental healthcare field. I graduated from a tiny little college in Pineville, LA-Louisiana College-with a bachelor’s degree in Social Work and went on to earn my masters degree from LSU-GO TIGERS!- a year later. My passion is to work with people who think they have unsolvable problems and walk alongside them as their problems become smaller and more manageable than they first believed. Many of my clients find that in the beginning of therapy they have no idea what can possibly help their situation. I’m not going to lie here, their issues can look really daunting. My promise to them and to every person that I help is that you are not in this alone. I am committed to walk along with you and not leave your side until you have the tools, knowledge, and strength to move forward without me. I promise that I will not quit until you decide the mission is complete.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Humorous
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Dr. Darrian Dawson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He is the clinical director/therapist of Darrian Dawson, LLC. In the past, Dr. Dawson has worked for Tulane University as an adjunct professor, child protection agencies, mental health providers, partial hospital programs, and recovery management agencies. Dr. Darrian has a strong passion for research, mental health advocacy, trauma recovery, and self-care. He believes that everyone deserves quality mental health care.
VirtualAvailable
Intelligent
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+9
Ms. Davidson has been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2019. Ms. Davidson completed her undergraduate work at Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA and her master’s degree at Southern A&M University, Baton Rouge, LA. Even though she has been Licensed since 2019, she has been working in the field of mental health counseling since 2005. Ms. Davidson has an extensive background in working with teens, young adults, and adults from all walks of life. Ms. Davidson believes that it is imperative to meet people where they are in life, and one must be rooted in the healing process, while being inspired to transform their lives using an integrated and eclectic therapeutic approach.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Depression
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+5
With over 21 years of experience in behavioral health, I’ve had the privilege of working with clients of all ages—from children to older adults—in settings such as private practice and inpatient care. I bring a calm, steady presence and strong listening skills to each session, helping clients uncover the root causes of their distress. My goal is to walk alongside you on your journey to healing, offering compassion, understanding, and practical tools that support your growth. Blessings
VirtualAvailable

New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Self Esteem
I am very passionate and dedicated when it comes to helping all clients that I work with. I am a full time school counselor in a public school setting where I have been dedicated to working with parents and their children for 14 years. I have also done online therapy for the past year and I have 3 years prior experience providing in-person therapy as well working with adults and adolescents. I am able to help clients better manage their emotions, find relief from negative thought patterns, feel more grounded, calm, and in control of their lives. I can be direct when necessary. I am laid back and ready to listen! I like to challenge thinking and perspective. I will always create a warm and welcoming environment where you feel supported and heard. In sessions, I combine mindfulness- based cognitive therapy (MBCT) with a caring, direct approach. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable and supported. Expect a balance of thoughtful insight, collaborative problem-solving, and tools you can use to start feeling some positive changes.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Women's Issues
+5
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor with over a decade of experience supporting men, women, and couples through some of life’s most difficult and disorienting seasons, including chronic illness and autoimmune conditions resulting from perpetual stress. My work goes beyond traditional talk therapy. I take an integrative approach that considers the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Many of the struggles people face today—anxiety, relationship conflict, feeling stuck—aren’t just about thoughts. They are patterns held in the nervous system, shaped by past experiences, and often reinforced over time. In our work together, I help you understand what’s driving those patterns beneath the surface. We don’t just talk about change—we create it through a combination of insight, practical tools, and body-based strategies that help you regulate, process, and move forward. I specialize in working with anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. I also work with couples who want to break unhealthy cycles and build a deeper connection. Clients often come to me feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure why they keep repeating the same patterns. Together, we create clarity, stability, and a path forward that feels grounded and sustainable. My style is warm, direct, and collaborative. My goal is that you leave each session not just feeling supported—but with a clearer understanding of yourself and tangible steps toward real change. If integrating your faith is importan, we make sure that is apart of your plan, as well.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Open-Minded

Specialties

Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
Hey! I'm Vadeisha, a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) serving in Texas and Louisiana. With a Master of Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington and a decade-long journey in the field, I'm passionate about fostering healing and empowerment in individuals, particularly focusing on supporting black women through pivotal life transitions. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, cultural understanding, and a commitment to resilience and growth. Over the years, my experience has spanned various domains, including juvenile justice, therapeutic foster care, reproductive justice, and child welfare. I've provided support, counseling, and education in behavioral health, medical, residential, and community settings, addressing challenges at both individual and systemic levels. Certified in Trust-Based Relational Intervention and the Structured Analysis Family Evaluation, my expertise extends to clinical assessments such as the Integrated Behavioral Health Assessment and Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths assessments. My services encompass individual and family counseling, clinical assessments, and a holistic approach to supporting well-being during critical life transitions. My ultimate goal is to serve as a collaborative guide and ally on my clients' journeys toward self-discovery, healing, and growth. I'm committed to empowering individuals to build a strong foundation for a fulfilling future while advocating for greater awareness of societal factors affecting marginalized communities. I deeply honor the unique cultural contexts and personal journeys of each individual I work with. If you're seeking a supportive and affirming space to begin your healing journey, I'm here to help.
VirtualAvailable

Specialties

Dissociative Disorders
LGBTQ
Personality Disorders
+9
As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Louisiana, I specialize in working with individuals who are experiencing the effects of trauma, anxiety, OCD, depression, or mood-related disorders. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Somatic Therapy, tailored to your unique needs and life story. I offer a safe, supportive, and LGBTQ-affirming space where all parts of you are welcome. Healing can be messy and nonlinear—but you don’t have to go through it alone. I aim to build a collaborative relationship rooted in trust, presence, and possibility.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Holistic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Sexual Abuse
Trauma and PTSD
+8
I am a clinician with over a decade of experience working in a variety of settings, including community mental health, school settings, Intensive Out Patient clinics and non-profit organizations. I have supported clients facing a range of challenges, including sexual assaults' and trauma, depression, anxiety, and relationship difficulties. My therapeutic approach integrates Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify emotional triggers and recognize unhelpful thought patterns; fostering healthier coping strategies, emotional resilience, and empowering change.
VirtualAvailable
Humorous
Solution oriented

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Family Therapy
School Issues
+10
After more than 20 years of working with children and families in the school system, I now offer my services virtually in order to reach and support more people. Over the years, my work has expanded to include concerns such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, grief, stress management, life transitions, self-esteem, and other challenges that impact daily life. Navigating family and personal relationships is also a central focus of my therapy. My approach is creative, engaging, and intentionally different from traditional talk therapy. I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, empowered, and gently challenged to grow. Incorporating music, humor, and interactive activities can help reduce stress and make it easier to open up about difficult emotions. I understand that seeking help can feel overwhelming, and my goal is to foster meaningful change within a welcoming, supportive environment.
VirtualAvailable
Humorous
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

ADHD
LGBTQ
Trauma and PTSD
+8
My name is Virginia and I'm licensed clinical social worker. My pronouns are she/her. I love helping others with ADHD who struggle with daily life as I am also diagnosed with the disorder. My focus is on building resilience focused on your own strengths. I really love helping members of the LGBTQIA+ community, women struggling with symptoms of PTSD, women over age 50, people with ADHD and teens who are exploring their identity. I see therapy as a partnership. We will work together to decide on goals and a treatment plan tailored to your needs. I provide a supportive non-judgmental space for clients on their wellness journeys.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Grief
LGBTQ
Women's Issues
+5
Do you find yourself putting everyone else's needs before your own? Struggling to say no without guilt? Feeling responsible for keeping the peace, managing others' emotions, or living up to expectations that no longer fit who you are? The patterns we learn growing up can shape our relationships, self-worth, and boundaries well into adulthood. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or repeating the same frustrating cycles, therapy can help you understand where these patterns come from, heal old wounds, and create healthier boundaries so you can move forward with greater confidence and authenticity. Whether you're navigating difficult emotions, healing from the past, or simply seeking clarity about your next steps, I’m here to walk alongside you on your path to healing, growth, and self-discovery. My name is Ebony Yelder (she/her/hers), and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience in the field of counseling and psychiatric services. I’ve had the privilege of working in diverse settings—including behavioral health hospitals, outpatient clinics, emergency rooms, in-home therapy, and with the Department of Defense supporting service members and their families. I believe therapy is a shared journey where your voice and experiences guide the process. I’m dedicated to helping individuals tap into their inner strengths and resilience. Together, we’ll recognize what’s working, explore what’s not, and create a meaningful path toward the life you envision. More about me: https://www.pathtoflourishcounseling.com/
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Grief
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 high performing men and women manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back into balance. We'll use a holistic self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness, yoga and art to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you're dealing with feeling overwhelmed, 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 embark on this journey together as we empower you in making powerful changes in your life.
VirtualAvailable
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 Louisiana. 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.

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.