EAP:United Healthcare Optum Therapists in Maryland

Utilizing mental health support through UnitedHealthcare/Optum’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can provide you with convenient and affordable access to care. With 107 verified therapists in Maryland who accept UnitedHealthcare/Optum EAP, you have options across therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and supportive counseling to help address work-related stress, personal challenges, or life transitions. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is currently open to new clients and has availability in the coming weeks, ensuring timely access to quality, EAP-covered care tailored to your needs.

Availability updated: 6/7/2026

Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
+2
Listening to others' stories and supporting them in finding positive paths through challenges has always felt like a natural calling. Even as a child, friends would often reach out, and my mom would joke, "Is the doctor in?" Later on, this passion led to volunteering with kids in creative programs and working in hospice care, where deeper connections were formed. These experiences led to a rewarding role at an outpatient community clinic, where people from all walks of life could share their unique journeys and struggles. My work with clients have included helping those navigate stress, anxiety, mood disorders, and life transitions. The ideal clients are those who are open to exploring interventions and truly wish to understand themselves more deeply. Therapy is not about achieving perfection but rather finding new perspectives on who we are and how we engage with the world around us. Healing and personal growth rarely follow a straight path, and it's the patience and willingness to try that often make the difference in finding the right way forward.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Authentic
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Fertility & Reproduction Issues
Grief
Women's Issues
+8
I have been a licensed clinician for almost 10 years. I have worked with many types of patients who have struggled with varying degrees of anxiety, depression, relationship stressors, struggles with infertility and pregnancy losses, mood disorders and instability, and history of trauma, among other mental health conditions. I specialize in utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectal Behavior Therapy as well as being certified in Trauma therapy to help my patients overcome their challenges in life.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Authentic
Warm
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Life Transitions
+6
I am a therapist who specializes in helping individuals manage and overcome social and relationship anxiety. Whether you struggle with social interactions, fear of judgment, or difficulty navigating relationships, I understand how challenging these experiences can be. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard and understood while working through the barriers that hold you back from living more fully and authentically. In our work together, I focus on building a solid foundation of self-awareness and self-compassion. We'll explore the root causes of your anxiety and identify negative thought patterns that may be contributing to your stress in social situations. By gaining insight into how anxiety affects your thinking and behavior, we can work together to challenge these unhelpful thoughts and replace them with healthier, more realistic perspectives. I also teach practical tools and techniques to help you manage anxiety in the moment, such as mindfulness, grounding exercises, and relaxation strategies.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

LGBTQ
Mood Disorders
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
+9
My name is Julianne Toy, and I am a licensed therapist with a strong foundation in both education and social work. I earned my Master’s in Education from Concordia University of Portland in 2015, followed by a Master’s in Social Work from Simmons University in 2018. Having training in both fields has been invaluable — it allows me to be creative and flexible in my approach, integrating educational strategies with therapeutic interventions to enhance understanding, growth, and lasting change. I have worked with individuals across the lifespan — from early childhood through older adulthood — and in a wide variety of settings, including homes, schools, hospitals, jails, courts, community agencies, and offices. I also have extensive experience providing teletherapy in several formats, ensuring accessible and personalized care for clients wherever they are. Before becoming a therapist, I worked as a case manager and volunteered for many years with at-risk youth and individuals with developmental disabilities. I also served as a crisis therapist, offering brief interventions and support to individuals at imminent risk. Over the course of my seven years as a therapist, I have provided both individual and group counseling, helping clients navigate a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and relational challenges. In recent years, my work has focused on private practice therapy with individuals and couples. Through this work, I have deepened my expertise and integrated several evidence-based therapeutic models to help clients improve their mental health, strengthen their relationships, and build more fulfilling lives. I currently work primarily with adolescents and adults, guiding them toward greater self-awareness, resilience, and well-being.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+4
I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Maryland with nearly a decade of experience providing compassionate, evidence-based care. I primarily support adult women navigating mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. As a Christian therapist, I also offer faith-integrated counseling for clients who wish to explore their healing journey through a spiritual lens.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+10
Thank you for viewing my profile. I am currently accepting new clients via telehealth. I like to make scheduling more conducive and less complex for my clients therefore, my scheduling is not rigid to only posted availability. I offer clients a wide range of availability with scheduling (to include evenings and weekends)....which can be arranged via email or phone consultation. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland. I am Trauma Certified, National Certified Counselor and board-certified member of the National Board of Certified Counselors. I earned my master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. I believe the client is the expert in their situation and work with the client to assist them in reaching their maximal potential. I also realize how important it is to identify all aspects of an individual’s life that impact their well-being including their physical health, support systems, work or school environment, and faith/spirituality in this process. My therapeutic approach is diverse, eclectic, and curtailed to the individual not a “one size fits all”.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
+13
Hello and welcome. My name is Dr. Michele Kapalcik or “Dr. Michele” for short. I am a licensed Counselor and Therapist in several states. I have worked with helping a multitude of clients with many disorders and personal backgrounds. In addition, I have a Ph.D in Addiction Psychology with over 25 years of sobriety myself. I am very familiar with all stages of addiction and am eager to help. I am a very kind hearted caring individual who takes pride in understanding the personal issues of others and applying personal treatment to meet their needs. I work with each client from start of treatment to finish to preserve and strengthen the counseling relationship to our needs, in order to meet or exceed client expectations.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQ
+9
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-C/LICSW) with over 12 years of experience supporting adults through trauma, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. My practice is rooted in creating safe, culturally responsive spaces for Black women, queer adults and healers to rest, restore, and be fully seen. I integrate evidence-based methods like Trauma-Focused CBT and Motivational Interviewing with somatic, mindfulness and expressive arts practices - so healing happens not just in the mind, but also in the body and spirit. Whether you’re healing from trauma, navigating identity, or seeking greater presence in your daily life, our work will unfold at a pace that feels safe and sustainable. Sessions emphasize compassion, embodiment, and choice—helping you restore a sense of connection and ease. I currently accept Cigna, Humana-Medicare, and EAP clients, with additional insurance panels in progress. Private-pay and out-of-network clients are warmly welcome. Superbills are available for reimbursement. Learn more about my practice at: www.littlebirdhealingcollective.com
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Authentic
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+5
Take a moment and close your eyes. How do you envision your 2026, the year of the horse? Better stress management? Healthier ways to cope with your mental health? Struggling with grief? I'm here to help! I specialize in working with adults who are navigating challenges such as addiction/substance use, anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, and other mental health concerns. My approach is trauma-informed care to where we develop coping strategies for you to utilize. My goal is to provide both support and appropriate challenges to foster growth. I aim to furnish a safe environment to allow you to embrace vulnerabilities.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Depression
Foster Care/Adoption
Spirituality
I am a licensed counselor, with 20 years of experience. I have a warm and interactive style. I believe that real change occurs in a safe and accepting counseling environment. My approach is to combine cognitive-behavioral, developmental and person centered counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+2
Hi there. Thank you for visiting my profile. My name is Sylvia Bikos, I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker, Clinical (LCSW-C). I received my Masters from university of Maryland School of Social Work. I worked at the inpatient and emergency department in the Psychiatric department where I worked with adults and children. I later transitioned to Employee Assistance Program (EAP) where I work with adult employees.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Authentic
Intelligent
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Kevin Smith is a Licensed Clinical Practicing Counselor (LCPC)) in the state of Maryland. He has over 12 years of substance use disorder treatment experience and two years of mental health therapy experience. He specializes in dealing with depression, bipolar, PTSD, schizophrenia and anxiety disorders. Kevin completed his Master's degree in Counseling Psychology at Capella University in 2014. He is a former substance abuser with 21 years of sobriety and has overcome a myriad of disabilities and childhood traumas in his own life. This coupled with his professional experiences, enables him to provide the guidance, support, and encouragement his clients are seeking. Kevin utilizes a wide variety of therapy techniques, including but not limited to, CBT, motivational interviewing, person-centered therapy, existentialism, EMDR and solution-focused therapy modalities. We all face dark times, mountains, and challenges in our lives. Kevin is confident he has the ability to make you feel comfortable and confident as you begin this journey to a new you. If you are ready and willing to do the work to make the next chapter of your life your best chapter, schedule an appointment with him today.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Life Transitions
+7
Hi I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I received my Master's Degree in 2010 from Loyola University and have been seeing clients since then . I especially enjoy helping adults deal with stressful transitions and challenges in life. My goal is to help clients gain insight and understanding about their challenges so that we together can find helpful solutions.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Suicidal Ideation
+5
**Hello there! My name is Alexis Staton, LCSW-C.** I am a first-generation graduate and postgraduate African American cisgender female dedicated to breaking generational cycles. My own life experiences have drawn me to this field, and I understand that doing the work on oneself is a significant and challenging task. I hold both a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and a Master of Social Work with a focus on Urban Child Welfare and Families from Morgan State University. As an interventionist, I strive to connect authentically with my clients, empowering them to embrace all their experiences, which ultimately shape who they are and how they "show up in the world." As a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C) mental health therapist, I bring almost a decade of clinical experience to my practice. I have provided both intensive and outpatient treatment, helping clients overcome anxiety, depression, and trauma through various treatment modalities designed to promote optimum functionality. My work often included participating on interdisciplinary teams, maintaining ongoing collaboration with primary care providers, psychiatrists, and public school IEP teams, among others. This holistic approach ensures comprehensive care and supports the diverse needs of my clients. My goal is to facilitate healing and growth, helping individuals achieve their best possible mental health and well-being.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session

Often rebooked

Empowering
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+10
Hello! I am passionate about helping individuals gain the skills to cope with everyday stressors and life transitions. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions ranging from school, work, the perinatal period, and motherhood. My approach is warm and down-to-earth, and my goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where clients can truly be themselves. I combine compassion with evidence based approaches to create a treatment plan tailed to you. I love the opportunity to work with clients from various cultural backgrounds and understand how it can integrate into our work together.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Authentic
Intelligent
Warm

Specialties

Addiction
Military/Veterans
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Hello! My name is Douglas Starliper and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) licensed to practice psychotherapy in both Maryland and Virginia! Before becoming a licensed therapist, I spent a career as a Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division where I deployed four times. The struggles many Veterans are facing today are what galvanized my interest and desire to begin my 2nd career as a therapist. I utilized my GI bill to complete my undergraduate degree at McDaniel College in Westminster, MD and my graduate degree at University of Maryland Baltimore. I recently completed the supervised portion of my career and am currently fully licensed to practice independently as a LCSW-C.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
+9
Hi, I’m Dr. Josh Gonsher, a licensed clinical psychologist with a warm, down-to-earth approach to healing. I specialize in helping people navigate anxiety, worry, and stress—not by fighting their symptoms, but by creating a new internal landscape where those struggles no longer take center stage. My approach is grounded in Contextual Therapy. I don’t just help clients “fix” thoughts or behaviors—I work with them to build a more meaningful life, one where old patterns and problems naturally begin to lose their grip. It’s about shifting the frame, not just adjusting the picture. I offer a space that’s collaborative, gently challenging, and deeply respectful of your unique path. You don’t need to “have it all figured out”—just a willingness to begin. Whether you’re dealing with social anxiety, overthinking, burnout, or a general sense of feeling stuck, my goal is to help you move toward a version of life that you choose, one that often feels more grounded, spacious, and aligned with whom you truly are.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session

Often rebooked

Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) whose motto is " Encouraged to heal; Empowered to change". I work with individuals that have become stagnant due to trauma, depression/anxiety, grief/loss, or have come to "phase of life changes" that they need assistance with navigating. I help clients to tap into their resilience, redeem their power and identify new goals to create a new narrative.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Solution oriented
Direct
Authentic

Specialties

Bipolar Disorder
Eating Disorders
Anxiety
+2
Over 20 years of experience guiding individuals and couples from struggle to strength. I trained at both Johns Hopkins psychiatry department and McGill university center for cognition and medicine. In recent years, I have specialized in working with clients struggling with mood disorders, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, cognitive disorders, eating disorders, weight management, and career-related challenges As a Cognitive Therapist, I believe that people have a choice: they can change their behavior, reframe their thought patterns, move forward, and regain hope.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
LGBTQ
+10
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in the state of Florida since 2021. I am also currently licensed in Massachusetts and Colorado. I attended Rivier College for my BA and University of New Hampshire for my MSW. I have worked in multiple settings, including healthcare, hospice , adoption, addiction, and general outpatient mental health and relationships.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
I am a therapist with over 17 years of experience in the mental health field. My background includes working in crisis treatment with children, adolescents, and adults. Currently, I work with adults aged 18–50 who experience mild to moderate anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. In addition to my professional experience, I also draw on personal experience in these areas, which enhances my understanding and empathy for my clients’ experiences.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Solution oriented
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Substance Misuse
+7
I am a licensed mental health therapist in the state of Maryland. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other evidence-based practices to help you feel confident in the work that we are doing together. I strive to create a calm and relaxed environment where clients feel comfortable and supported. While my approach is warm and welcoming, I am also direct when needed to help facilitate growth and clarity. Sessions are focused and distraction-free, ensuring we make the most of our time together. My goal is to provide a space where you can feel both challenged and empowered to make meaningful changes.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Life Transitions
+2
Greetings. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Maryland. I have 15 years experience in trauma-informed care and have experience in many mental health challenges. I believe in holistic approaches to treatment. My goal as a provider is to assist others in developing tools to suit their uniqueness. Our unique lived experience shapes us but we do not have to be defined by it.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+6
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Individual Clinical Social Worker in DC (LICSW); and also a Clinical Social Worker in MD (LCSW-C). I received my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology in 1985 and my Master's degree in Social Work in 1999. I earned my LICSW in DC in 2002. In December 2025, I earned my Clinical license in Maryland (LCSW-C). I like talking with people--but more importantly, listening to people. To me, therapy is a block of time. It is an opportunity for people to talk to someone who is not a parent, brother, sister, spouse or even best friend. My goal is to listen to you and to help you consider options in your life.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Empowering
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Coping Skills
Depression
Women's Issues
+8
I am a solo single mother, solo private practice owner, and licensed clinical social worker – certified (LCSW-C), with more than 20 years of experience in the Mental Health Field working with a variety of mental and emotional issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, anger and stress management, childhood/adolescent developmental stressors, and life transitional stages. The remarkable moments and the the difficult ones ( in some obvious ways or in subtle ways that sometimes sneak up on us) can cause us to go through life merely surviving or struggling, often feeling alone. It doesn't stop there. Often the life and soul work is also challenging (but rewarding process) , that can make you feel alone too! My role is to fill in that gap. You do not need to be alone. The work should be experienced in a safe, loving, and understanding environment. As a holder of your pain, your hope, and your light, let me stand by your side and empower you to face obstacles and challenges. Let us go beyond surviving this life, but healing our hearts and mind so we can love and enjoy the moments we have right now, the best we can.
VirtualAvailable
View profile
Book session
Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Maryland rather than a city like Baltimore?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in Maryland. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across Maryland from Hagerstown to Ocean City! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Maryland.

Will my therapist take EAP:UnitedHealthcare/Optum?

Yes! If you use EAP:UnitedHealthcare/Optum you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have EAP:UnitedHealthcare/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.