United Healthcare Optum Medicare Therapists in Minnesota
Finding a therapist through UnitedHealthcare/Optum Medicare can provide accessible and cost-effective mental health care tailored to your needs. With 18 verified therapists in Minnesota who accept UnitedHealthcare/Optum Medicare, you can choose from therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive counseling, and mindfulness-based therapy to help address concerns like anxiety, depression, or coping with health changes. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is currently accepting new clients and has availability in the coming weeks, ensuring timely, compassionate care covered by your UnitedHealthcare/Optum Medicare plan.
Availability updated: 10/19/2026
Empowering
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Coping Skills
Family Conflict
Life Transitions
Hi, I’m Whitney, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (licensed in Florida and Minnesota).
I specialize in working with women who are navigating life transitions and feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or emotionally off-balance. Many of the women I support aren’t in crisis—they’re adjusting to change, juggling multiple responsibilities, or noticing that the coping strategies that used to work no longer feel enough. They often come to therapy looking for clarity, validation, and practical tools to help them feel steadier and more confident in this current season of life.
My approach to therapy is warm, supportive, and solution-focused. I believe therapy doesn’t have to feel heavy or emotionally overwhelming to be effective. Instead, I offer a calm, compassionate space where you can talk openly, feel understood, and gain insight into what’s contributing to your stress. Together, we focus on building coping skills, strengthening emotional awareness, and finding realistic ways to reduce stress and improve day-to-day balance.
I work collaboratively with my clients and tailor therapy to fit your goals, personality, and pace. Our work is often short-term and goal-oriented, with an emphasis on helping you feel better equipped to handle life’s transitions within a few months rather than engaging in long-term, intensive therapy.
If you’re looking for a therapist who offers validation, gentle guidance, and practical support during a time of change, I’d be honored to support you.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+8
Hello! Life can throw us occasional curve balls or have us feeling a certain way for longer than we would hope. We will work together to explore your concerns and develop a concrete, tailored plan for treatment. I am excited to work together to get you feeling better! A little bit about me, I received my MSW at the University of North Dakota and I am a board certified, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have an extensive background with the treatment of many types of mental health diagnosis and have provided clinical services in a variety of settings including homes, clinics and hospital systems.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anger Management
Personality Disorders
Sex Addiction
+8
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counsellor (LPCC) based in Minnesota. Additionally, I am a Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LADC). I received my Masters from the Adler Graduate School and have been practicing for over 10 years. I consider myself a relational therapist. I help adults who are struggling become the best versions of themselves that they can be happy with.
VirtualAvailable
Often rebooked
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+10
Hello there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Minnesota is where I call home. Most of my 25 years of experience has been in a variety of therapeutic educational settings, primarily with teens and young adults. When we begin the therapy process, I thoroughly enjoy learning about the person who is in front of me. My style is to partner with you, together we can figure out what you feel is most important to focus on in therapy and if you are not sure what exactly that is, it's OK, we will figure it out together.
VirtualOffers in-person in Maplewood, MN - Accepting clients in MNAvailable
Authentic
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Specialties
Life Transitions
Men's Issues
Self Esteem
+2
Happy to meet you! I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in Minnesota, born and raised in Miami, Florida. I received my Masters from the Florida International University and have been practicing for 7 years. I am bilingual, speaking English and Spanish. I'm a fellow traveler in life and help people find their fulfillment in life. I've had experience with parents, adults with SPMI, adults struggling with life changes. I have Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in California. I received my Masters from the University of Florida and have been practicing for 7 years. I help young adults struggling with career stress and burnout become the best versions of themselves experience in the LGBTQ+ community, Latino community, large families and developing healthy boundaries. I have also worked in addressing challenges related to issues such as men's concerns, anxiety, depression, impulsivity, addiction, young adults, relationship issues, and grief.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anger Management
Coping Skills
Older Adults
+8
Fall can be a wonderful season to focus on your mental health journey. While spring brings renewal, fall offers a powerful opportunity to turn inward, recharge, and set new intentions. Just as the leaves change gradually, real personal growth happens at its own steady pace. Therapy provides a grounded, safe, encouraging space to honor where you are, discover what you need, and build meaningful progress—one step at a time.
I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), and I’ve spent my career helping adults navigate the ups and downs life throws our way. After several years working in Social Services and Mental Health fields, I returned to school as a non-traditional student to pursue my master’s in social work. Before opening my private practice, for 20 years, I served as both a Clinical Supervisor and Therapist, supporting adults as they work toward meaningful mental health recovery and long-term wellbeing. I will help you make a plan that fits your style and is an investment in life-long benefits.
I enjoy helping people recognize their own strengths and challenges. I encourage hope through skill building and reducing negative symptoms.
Searching for a therapist is a huge and brave first step, and I’m genuinely glad you’re here. You deserve support, validation, and a space that helps you move toward the life you want. Please reach out to me, or book a session for a Tuesday or Thursday on my website, so that we can work together to build a life worth living for you.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented
Specialties
Child or Adolescent
Depression
Women's Issues
+6
I earned my Masters in Social Work from the University of Minnesota had have been a licensed clinical social worker for 15 years. I have worked in a variety of settings with teenagers, young adults, women in mid-life, and women who are looking toward the future while living in an uncertain world; women who have had an unexpected disability; women who are looking toward a return to the workforce or a career change; adults looking to improve their relationships or their own quality of life; and those grieving the loss of partner, a child, a parent or other significant relationships. Grief and self-compassion are so important in these times.
VirtualAvailable
New to Grow
Specialties
Grief
Perinatal Mental Health
Postpartum
+5
Becca Sharpsteen is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with eight years of professional experience. Most of her professional career has been spent working as a school social worker. This has given her a wide variety of clientele from culturally diverse backgrounds.
After experiencing the stillbirth of her first son several years ago, she was catapulted into life after the loss of a child. Years later, it is her mission to support other loss moms, young mothers, and those experiencing the amazing and chaotic changes which occur into motherhood.
VirtualOffers in-person in Mankato, MN - Accepting clients in MNAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Intelligent
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Eating Disorders
+9
Hello, my name is Matthew Cruz, but many people call me Matt. I specialize in treating adult individuals. I enjoy talking with people about their problems, offering them support, and helping them to find a way forward. My background is in treating substance use and Eating Disorders. As such, I am familiar with a variety of treatment approaches, including CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. However, I am looking for what approach works for each individual and am not attached to any one mode of treatment. I enjoy helping people explore meaning and symbolism in their world through a person centered approach to treatment. For those that are interested, I am comfortable incorporating faith and spiritual practice into the treatment experience. I do not provide couples or family therapy. Feel free to reach out to me with further questions!
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Humorous
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+10
I am a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner and Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience providing trauma-informed care across private practice, healthcare systems, and virtual settings. My work is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a belief that meaningful change happens when care is tailored to the whole person. I support individuals, families, and professionals as they navigate challenges and strengthen their overall mental wellness.
I have experience working with concerns such as trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, workplace stress, and major life transitions. My approach is flexible and responsive, allowing therapy to meet you where you are while helping you move toward greater stability, clarity, and resilience.
VirtualAvailable
Open-minded
Intelligent
Authentic
Specialties
Crisis Intervention
Family Therapy
Foster Care/Adoption
+8
Meet Mike Arieta, LICSW
Hello and welcome. I’m Mike Arieta, a licensed clinical social worker with nearly three decades of experience supporting individuals, couples, families, and teens through life’s most complex challenges. Since 1995, I’ve worked across diverse settings—from foster care and homelessness to adoption and refugee support—and have been practicing clinically since 2011.
My therapeutic approach is body-based and trauma-informed. I believe our bodies often speak before our minds can make sense of what we’re feeling. This philosophy guides my work with clients navigating trauma, PTSD, and transitions that require deep emotional resilience. I integrate movement-based and somatic strategies to help clients reconnect with themselves and their communities.
Currently, I’m completing my Doctor of Social Work degree at Tulane University, where my research focuses on trauma recovery and evidence-informed practices that foster healing. I also hold advanced training in adoption competence and provide support to foster youth, adoptive families, and caregivers navigating complex systems.
Therapy, for me, is a collaborative journey. I’m honored to walk alongside my clients as they reclaim their stories, build strength, and move toward meaningful change. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about my work—I look forward to connecting with you.
VirtualOffers in-person in Apple Valley, MN - Accepting clients in MNAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Career Counseling
Coping Skills
+10
Hello, welcome. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and proud graduate of Augsburg University, I am deeply committed to fostering self-growth, resilience, and empowerment in the individuals and communities I serve. My approach is rooted in the core values of social work—dignity, compassion, and social justice—and is informed by evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and strength-based, person-centered frameworks.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Empowering
Intelligent
Specialties
Depression
Phobias
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hello! I am a multicultural clinician with eighteen years of experience, licensed as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). I hold a Master’s degree from the University of St. Thomas in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and a Doctor of Behavioral Health from Arizona State University. My primary focus is on delivering clinical support to adults encountering behavioral health challenges, with the aim of improving their condition management.
I am dedicated to integrating diverse cultural perspectives into my practice, respecting each individual's background. I create a safe environment for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. Using evidence-based approaches, I work collaboratively to develop personalized strategies that enhance resilience and well-being. Also, I prioritize ongoing professional development to stay updated on advancements in behavioral health for effective care.
VirtualOffers in-person in Saint Paul, MN - Accepting clients in MNAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQ
+5
I believe that every person possesses the inner strength and resources needed to find happiness and healing. As a transgender woman, I understand both the internal and external forces that can stir self-doubt, amplify fear, and lead to deep feelings of loneliness and uncertainty. I also know—through both personal and professional experience—that self-acceptance and joy are not only possible, but also within reach. Science consistently shows that those who seek support often find meaningful relief and lasting change.
I bring to my practice a mindfulness-based approach grounded in compassion, presence, and affirmation. My work is especially focused on serving the LGBTQAI+ community, though I warmly welcome anyone seeking an empathic, nonjudgmental partner in their journey toward a more fulfilling life.
In addition to my clinical work, I have served as an adjunct and visiting professor at Washington University in St. Louis, and as professor and dean of the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies. My academic and clinical experiences have always been deeply interconnected, and both continue to inform my commitment to human dignity, resilience, and transformation.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Parenting
Women's Issues
+10
Hi, I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in Mid Minnesota. With eight years of experience, I enjoy supporting those in need through life’s transitions and challenges in a kind, respectful, and down-to-earth way. If you're feeling stuck or burn out my approach is all about building a genuine connection and helping you tap into your own strengths and resilience towards healing.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Family Conflict
Foster Care/Adoption
+10
Hello, I’m Missy Lee, and I bring over 20 years of experience working with youth and families in school settings. As a transracial adoptee, I have a deep understanding of identity, belonging, and the complex emotions that can come with adoption and family dynamics. My background has given me a unique perspective on connection, resilience, and healing.
Throughout my career, I’ve supported individuals and families through times of crisis and transition, helping them find stability, strength, and hope. I create a safe and supportive space where clients feel seen and understood, and where we can work together to build on their strengths and move toward meaningful change.
VirtualOffers in-person in Plymouth, MN - Accepting clients in MNAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Warm
Specialties
Depression
LGBTQ
Trauma and PTSD
+2
My name is Myste.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe in the power of resilience and the unique strenghts each person brings to their healing journey. My approach is collaborative, affirming, and grounding in the belief that meaningful change happens when we feel seen, heard, and supported. I specialized in helping clients navigate anxiety, life transitions, identity exploration and relationship challenges, using evidence-based practices with compassionate, inclusive lens. Together, we'll build on your strengths and develop tools to foster growth, balance, and connection.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Direct
Intelligent
Specialties
Sex Therapy
Substance Misuse
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I am a trauma informed care practitioner with 16 years of experience in supporting people through a healing journey with EMDR, IFS, Somatic Experiencing and Jungian Dream Analysis. We enter your story with compassion. I am passionate about providing gentle and considerate care. My office is located on a bus line within an ADA accessible building and off-street parking. Virtual sessions are offered. My space is designed for comfort and safety in downtown Duluth, Minnesota.
VirtualOffers in-person in Duluth, MN - Accepting clients in MNAvailable
Frequently asked questions
Why filter by Minnesota rather than a city like Minneapolis?
Why filter by Minnesota rather than a city like Minneapolis?
When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in Minnesota. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across Minnesota from Saint Paul to Rochester! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Minnesota.
Will my therapist take UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicare?
Will my therapist take UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicare?
Yes! If you use UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicare you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicare 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?
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?
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?
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.