Optum Therapists in Maryland

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 130 verified therapists in Maryland 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: 7/3/2025

Katherine Smith

(she/her)

Katherine Smith, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW-C
18 years of experience
Virtual
Sometimes life just gets really hard, and we simply cannot find any joy or peace. Please know I am someone who will help you look for the joy or at least a "glimmer" but I am also a safe zone and will hold space for you to share whatever it is and listen without judgement. Most times, we just need our voice to be heard and understood. I have experience working with men, women and older adults. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-C), I am trained in lots of "therapeutic modalities" so I am skilled and will help you with your anxiety, depression, anger, stress, coping, life transitions, grief - you name it. However, I will always remember that you are human being - a beautiful human who is deserving of feeling good, confident & competent and having a sense of purpose and finding where you belong. I will share my knowledge & skills, be direct and hold you accountable as needed and will walk on this part of your journey with you. You only need to show up. We will figure out the rest together!

Betsy Blum

Betsy Blum, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor based in Maryland I provide teletherapy services to clients in North Carolina and Vermont, and Maryland. I received my master's degree in counseling psychology from Antioch New England Graduate School, New Hampshire in 1992 and My Bachelors in Transpersonal Psychology from Burlington College, Vermont, 1987. I do IFS, EMDR, and Somatic work to help clients find lasting and transformative changes in their lives. I incorporate Spirituality into my work. I teach mindfulness and The Law of Attraction, and creative visualization. I am a CPTSD survivor, and I have used these therapies personally to find lasting peace and joy. I enjoy providing compassionate, supportive therapy, and deep insight orientated, transformative therapy. I enjoy helping clients reduce stress, heal codependency, and heal trauma, depression, and grief. I teach clients to find their inner confidence, and courage, to set boundaries with others and stop "people pleasing". I teach clients to Love themselves and communicate clearly and compassionately with others. I help clients to get to the root of their problems, learn to regulate their emotions, and find peace in the midst of worry and distress. I help clients learn to set boundaries in healthy relationships and to leave abusive relationships.

Merry Schoch

(she/her)

Merry Schoch, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW-C
14 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed clinical social worker (SW12568) located in Tampa, Florida. I am also a general practitioner whose specific areas of expertise are the treatment of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress. I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), positive psychology, and mindfulness to empower individuals and help them realize then strive to reach their full potential.

Katherine Roth

(She/Her)

Katherine Roth, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW-C
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and provide virtual counseling services to those residing in FL, MD, MI, and VA. I received my Masters from the University of Michigan and have been practicing for 15 years. I specialize in women-specific counseling, addressing the unique challenges that women face, including issues related to self-esteem, confidence, fertility, pregnancy and postpartum concerns, anxiety, grief, stress and life transitions. I also specialize in working with women and families with a connection to adoption.

Robin Parks

Robin Parks, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
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.

Matt Loveland

Matt Loveland, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW-C
25 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I love the outdoors and most anything to do with water. I have 25+ years of experience helping people as a clinical social worker. My practice has been primarily geared toward adults, but I also have extensive experience with youth ages 12-17. In recent years, my clientele has gravitated to men's issues.

Suzanne Day

(she/her)

Suzanne Day, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW-C
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hey there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that practices Behaviorism. What that means is that we will work together to target behaviors that can help you improve your current mental state. I want to help you see quantifiable progress from our work together. A little about me: My name is Suzanne. I’m a person that loves the sun, being by water and dogs! In my free time I volunteer with a Great Dane rescue. I enjoy those huge, goofy, couch potato dogs. I’ve moved around a lot and went to school at Syracuse University and graduate school in Washington D.C. I have two decades of experience specializing in trauma, grief, relationship issues, anxiety, addiction and depression. I’ve been heavily involved in working with military, veterans and first responders. You are the subject matter expert in what you need and I will supply tools, support, information and backing. We will work together on making goals and action steps on how to reach your goals.

Tracy Gordon

(she/her)

Tracy Gordon, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW-C
8 years of experience
Virtual
I have experience working with people suffering from depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, and trauma. I used Strengths-Based therapies, Solution-Focused Brief therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I believe that you have the power within yourself to overcome and conquer that which is keeping you from moving forward to a better you. Working together, we can find your inner strength to succeed in life. Let’s get to work.

Danielle Williams

Danielle Williams, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW-C
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C), (LICSW) based in Maryland and DC. I have spent 8 years developing my skill set, with the goal of providing quality care services to every person I encounter. My compassion and love for people is what has driven me to pursue an Associates Degree in Human Services, a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work at Coppin State University and a Master's Degree in Social Work at Morgan State University with a concentration on Urban Youth and families.

Kiti Jackson

Kiti Jackson, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Kiti Jackson is a Licensed Therapist (LCPC) in Maryland. Kiti has a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Psychology and a Master of Arts in Human Services and Counseling. Led by her desire to help others, she also earned a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and EMDR therapist, she specializes in helping clients with trauma. Kiti has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults. Kiti is an islander from Oahu, Hawaii, who has an affection for the outdoors. She enjoys spending time with her four children and husband. Her years as a military spouse taught her to be flexible because things can change in the blink of an eye. She enjoys long walks with her husband and their three Akitas. You will often find Kiti binge-watching Monk, biking, traveling, and exploring various foods.

Patrice Forrester

Patrice Forrester, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW-C
14 years of experience
Virtual
Patrice is a licensed clinical social worker with experience providing mental health services to children, teenagers, and adults affected by psychological trauma, HIV/AIDS, and chronic mental illness. Patrice received further training in trauma-focused CBT for children and adolescents while a therapist at a DC mental health agency. She also was trained in mental health practice for human trafficking survivors through the Maryland Human Trafficking Task Force.

Laurie McGuire

(she/her)

Laurie McGuire, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW-C
27 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, I'm Laurie! Do you wish providers would look at you through a whole person lens instead of discussing health and mental health separately? Do you want a provider for your child who is playful and skilled at engaging children? Are you an adult who likes a more personal, connected approach to therapy? Do you have a teen who has had difficulty connecting to other providers? Well look no further! I enjoy using storytelling, videos, and conversation to help clients of all ages improve self-esteem, self-worth and gain a better understanding of sense of self. A licensed clinical social worker and board-certified supervisor with over 25 years of experience working with children, teens, and adults, I spent much of that time working for the world-renowned Kennedy Krieger Institute, a Johns Hopkins affiliate, where I was also in leadership. I have post-graduate certificates in Treating Children & Adolescents, Leadership, Fitness Nutrition, and Integrative Medicine for Mental Health providers. More personally, I love hiking, watching Marvel movies, lifting weights, and crowd surfing at concerts. I believe we should never stop playing like children!

Kate Hunt

(she/her)

Kate Hunt, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW-C
9 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome to my page! My name is Kate Hunt and I'm a licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland with ten years of experience in working with adults and children. I completed my undergraduate degree in Social Work from McDaniel, my master's in social work from UMB, and am a board approved supervisor with experience in leadership positions including field intern supervising with UMB. My experience includes mood disorders, perinatal mood disorders, relationship issues, substance abuse, anxiety and adjustment concerns. I've worked in a variety of settings including hospitals, substance use programs, and therapy clinics. I believe a client centered approach allows a genuine experience for both client and clinician. My goal is to help my clients reach a point of internal growth through self-discovery and encouragement. My therapy orientation is both psychodynamic and CBT based. Together, we can work to confront defense mechanisms and cognitive distortions that are contributing to your present concerns. Lastly, in my personal life, I'm a former athlete (but trying to be current!), dog-lover, avid reader, and parent.

Andrew Won

Andrew Won, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Would you like to have more self-love? Feel more in control and empowered in your life? Have the self-awareness to recognize and understand your thoughts, emotions, and beliefs? If so, I am the therapist for you! Working with me, you will gain a deeper understanding and mastery of your inner world. I will assist you in cultivating profound self-love, self-awareness, and self-empowerment. Together, we will strengthen your ability to regulate your emotions, thoughts, actions, and relationships. My goal as your therapist is to have you feeling and acting with supreme love and confidence.

John L. Driessnack

John L. Driessnack, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW-C
7 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings, my name is John Luke. I am a licensed clinical social worker and specialize in helping people to effectively manage anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns using cognitive behavioral techniques. I have worked with a range of populations, nearly all ages, and also have experience with addiction treatment and life-coaching. I work with people to develop insight into the source of their problems, how their core beliefs about the world might be hindering their progress, and focus on their natural strengths to overcome those barriers with practical skills that generate sustainable change. Some of my other specialties include short-term, solution-focused therapy; cognitive behavioral therapy techniques; psychodynamic approaches; and marital counseling. Some of the problems I am particularly keen on solving with my clients include issues with self-image and confidence; dating and relationships; boundary-setting and assertive communication; as well as general anxiety management; and learning to identify and productively resolve emotional unrest. I am also very experienced in cognitive restructuring, which is just a fancy way of saying helping to change the way a person thinks about the world and their place in it. I also enjoy aiding people in goal setting and identification, meaning-making, and navigating family conflicts. If you feel any of this could be helpful or useful to you, please do not hesitate to reach out! (Note: I do work with couples, but only on a cash-pay basis. Also, I only work with ages 18+)

Marisa Lare

Marisa Lare, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW-C
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) based in Maryland. I received my Masters degree from Salisbury University. I bring a wealth of experience working with adolescents from varied settings such as schools, outpatient, and inpatient care—where I've assisted clients with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I enjoy helping young adults and adults navigate change, life transitions, anxiety, and relationship issues.

Alexis Powers

Alexis Powers, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
7 years of experience
Virtual
Alexis focus on treating adults, particularly those experiencing life adjustments. for older adults utilizing cognitive behavior therapy for the treatment of depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, AD(H)D, brain injury, and adjustment disorder. She also offers the opportunity for clients to vent about life’s disappointments and difficulties. She also offers the person-centered approach for talking through grief and other hardships. Specialties also include stress management and recovering from trauma.

Ingrid Nembhard

(she/her)

Ingrid Nembhard, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW-C
18 years of experience
Virtual
I have been practicing therapy for over sixteen years. I received my Master's degree in Social Work from Florida International University and my PsyD. in Grief Counselling from Breyer State Theology University. I have experience with individuals, couples, and families. Some of my primary areas of expertise are family and relationship conflict, intimacy related issues and difficulty with various life changes and transitions. I specialize in assisting those who may be going through a rough patch in life or have experienced the death of a loved one. It is important to have a strong therapeutic relationship with your therapist and to feel that they are a good match for you. I want you to feel that therapy is a safe and non-judgmental place to share your thoughts, and feelings. I believe that counseling should primarily be solution-focused to help you achieve your goals and begin to see improvement as soon as possible.

Jim OMalley

(he/him)

Jim OMalley, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
23 years of experience
Virtual
I have worked in the behavioral health field for over 23 years, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am a licensed mental health professional in multiple states. I have earned progressively higher leadership responsibilities throughout my career, including providing clinical and executive leadership. Additionally, I have been providing telehealth services and striving to improve access to quality behavioral health services across the country since 2015. I have been fortunate to gain experience in diverse areas and feel I am equipped to help people with a variety of issues. I received a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from McKendree University.

Eric Ndichu

(he/him)

Eric Ndichu, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW-C
15 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed clinical social worker and practice in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. I have been providing therapy for close to 15 years to help my client address mental health symptoms including depression, trauma, life transitions and anxiety. I believe people are inherently capable of managing their circumstances but sometimes require some assistance from a therapist to succeed.

Mary Lynn Millsaps

Mary Lynn Millsaps, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW-C
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and certified Health Coach. Over the last 15+ years, I've helped women struggling with life changes, anxiety, depression or chronic illness overcome barriers to living a joyful life. My style is collaborative, using a variety of evidence-based techniques customized to what is most helpful and productive for each individual. I enjoy incorporating Christian values and practices where there is alignment in beliefs.

Dr. Olushola Bakare

(she/her)

Dr. Olushola Bakare, LCMFT - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCMFT
18 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Dr. Olushola Bakare, and I'm a board-certified Psychotherapist. I attended St Joseph College. I'm happy to help you today with any of your concerns. I enjoy empowering people and digging out their strengths. I don't ask fish to fly, neither do I ask birds to swim. I respect everyone's strengths and help my client recognize them. I love to highlight my client's strengths. I offer a safe, warm, therapeutic, judgment-free space for Adults (18+) and Older Adults (65+). I am sorry, but I do not accept clients who pay in cash. Also, every late cancellation or no-show accrues a late charge fee. It is my ethical duty to officially terminate our therapeutic relationship when it is reasonably clear that the client is no longer beneficent, services are no longer required, counseling no longer serves the client's needs and interests, or Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT limits do not allow the provision of further counseling services. It is the policy of Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT, that our professional relationship will be terminated after a one-month consistent lapse of meeting with a client. Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT, will attempt to notify you of this change in status as soon as possible after one month. My ethical duty is identifying, being available, and caring for current clients. It could feel awkward for our relationship to end, yet it is not meant to be discourteous in any way. I do not complete disability forms (Social Security, work excuse, FMLA, Court papers/legal papers, emotional support letters, etc). NO COUPLE THERAPY OR MEDICATION MANAGEMENT, PLEASE!

Ritchie McCall

Ritchie McCall, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
14 years of experience
Virtual
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.

Mahi Alemnew

(she/her)

Mahi Alemnew, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
7 years of experience
Virtual
I provide clients with a nonjudgmental, empathetic, and safe space to help them enhance their quality of life and overall well-being. My approach is culturally informed, as I acknowledge the social context and experiences that shape individuals' daily lives. I enjoy working with a diverse range of clients, supporting them as they tackle various challenges, and empowering them to discover effective coping skills for managing difficulties. I find fulfillment in helping clients overcome relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, and other concerns. I truly believe that therapy, and the therapeutic relationship I build with clients, creates a space for healing, self-awareness, and personal growth. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and my Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Towson University. I specialize in working with adults, utilizing Person-Centered, Solution-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques. I’m passionate about helping clients feel a sense of belonging while exploring different facets of their identity. I also have a strong understanding of Ethiopian and immigrant experiences, and I am a dedicated ally of the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. I work with many clients from these communities, addressing cultural and individual trauma. Additionally, I am bilingual in Amharic and able to support clients whose primary or only language is Amharic.

Natasha Bowditch

Natasha Bowditch, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW-C
17 years of experience
Virtual
I have over 15 years of experience helping to improve the lives of my clients through compassionate, client-focused care. I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, stress management, grief, and chronic illness, among other mental health and substance use issues. I utilize various evidence-based techniques, including, but not limited to, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches, to empower my clients on their journey.

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 the state. 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 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.