Optum Therapists in Missouri

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 56 verified therapists in Missouri 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

Mia Ferrell

Mia Ferrell, LPC - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
1 year of experience
Virtual
What’s up , my name is Mia Ferrell I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been providing therapy over 12 years. I am licensed Ohio and Missouri. In my free time I enjoy music, watching crime shows and spending time with my family. I am committed to helping others overcome life’s challenges and begin a journey towards mental harmony. I provide compassionate, empathetic and direct therapy. I am willing to laugh, cheer and cry with you. I specialize in working with those experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship issues, women’s issues, low self-esteem, symptoms of depression, and symptoms of trauma.

Joyce Laurice

(she/her)

Joyce Laurice, LPC - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Missouri. I completed my Masters at Mercer University Atlanta and have been practicing for 6 years. I believe everyone deserves to live a life that is fulfilling and meaningful. I help adults find clarity and calm to build a life that feels more aligned with who they really are.

Larry McDaniel

(he/him)

Larry McDaniel, LCSW - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
34 years of experience
Virtual
As the Founder of Coyote Hill (coyotehill.org) I have worked with foster children and families in crisis for over 33 years. After retiring as CEO in 2021, I have opened my own private practice. In a world that often demands us to mask our struggles, having a space where your feelings are validated, and your experiences are understood can be transformative. Your story matters, and I am here to listen, understand, and help you write the next chapter—one where you feel empowered and at peace. Together, we can explore the possibilities that lie ahead and take steps towards a more balanced and fulfilling life. We can't undo the past, but we can work together to get to a place where you can finish well.

Dr Ken

Dr Ken, LPC - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
23 years of experience
Virtual
Doctor Vehec is a counseling psychologist. As a therapist in the Veterans Administration’s Vet Center program for fifteen years, he was one of the first qualified second-level screeners for the James A. Haley VA Hospital Poly-trauma Unit, (one of four in the country) where he gained invaluable experience working with our most severely neurologically traumatized veterans. Dr. Vehec studied neuroscience under the preeminent neuro-psychologist Dr. Eugene Tootle at Barry University. Dr. Vehec was the chairman of the Board for a Charter School specializing in Specific Learning Disabled children in grades K-8. During this time he championed numerous Brain Based learning programs, i.e. Brain Boost exercises®, Audio Visual Entrainment, and the Interactive Metronome® program. Dr. Vehec is a member of the American Counseling Association, the Florida Mental Health Counseling Association, and the Milton Erickson Foundation. Dr. Vehec has an established Sports and Entertainment psychology practice. He was the Team psychologist for the Orlando Predators and the Kansas City Phantoms, both were professional Arena Football teams. He provided the coaching staff and players training on brain-based learning exercises designed to improve balance and enhance physical and mental performance. He designed treatment plans to assist players with their post-concussion recovery. Dr. Vehec works with PGA Professionals. One of whom was a contestant on “The Big Break” and continues on the professional tour. He is a consultant for the NFLPA of Central Florida. He co-organized the first neurological symposium for the NFL & NFLPA players before the Pro Bowl in Orlando. Dr. Vehec believes that from concussion to Alzheimer’s and Dementia there is hope that a therapy or exercise program exists which can help to improve one’s quality of life. Dr. Vehec’s favorite expression is “Never let anyone tell you what your limitations are.”

Courtney Klinger

(she/her)

Courtney Klinger, LCSW - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have dedicated my career to supporting teens and adolescents since 2014. I find it incredibly rewarding to help young people navigate the complexities of their lives and overcome the challenges they face. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based practices. I am committed to helping my clients discover their strengths and create meaningful change in their lives.

Cassandra Sissom

(she/her)

Cassandra Sissom, LPC - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
14 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor serving clients in Illinois and Missouri, with over 14 years of experience. My goal is simple: to create a comfortable space to feel at ease and make meaningful changes in your life. Whether you’re going through a tough time or want to understand yourself better, we’ll work together at your own pace. I believe everyone has the potential to grow and thrive with the right support, and I’m here to help you build the life you envision for yourself. I believe in using methods that have been proven to work while making sure the approach fits you perfectly. We’ll start with tried-and-true techniques like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused therapy to build a strong foundation. Think of it as creating your personal toolbox of skills and strategies you can use both in and outside our sessions. Science shows us something really interesting: being kinder to ourselves and practicing mindfulness can transform how we handle life’s challenges. These practices help rewire our brains, making us more resilient and better equipped to handle stress. They can even help heal old hurts that might be holding you back. I love seeing my clients discover their inner strength and potential. Together, we’ll find the best combination of techniques that work for you – whether you’re looking to improve your relationships, handle stress better, or simply feel more at peace with yourself. We’ll go at your pace, building on what works and adjusting what doesn’t. The best therapy is both practical and personal. While I use approaches backed by research, your unique needs, and goals will always shape our work together.

Amy Barnwell

(she/her)

Amy Barnwell, LPC - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello My name is Amy Barnwell, Everyone experiences transitions in life and at times need additional support in navigating the changes of life. Finally Me Counseling PLLC is a place where individuals are celebrated and encouraged to live happy and fulfilling lives- true to their authentic selves. Whether you are challenged with symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other concerns- there is hope and you can begin again. My approach is collaborative and I utilize experience and training from diverse environments to influence counseling modality and strategies emphasized in sessions to address the specific needs of my clients. Additional Training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Spiritual Issues, Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Trained, Moral Injury, Compassion Fatigue, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.

Lisa Sanderson

Lisa Sanderson, LCSW - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated with my Master's Degree from Saint Louis University. I have worked with clients who have moderate to severe mental health symptoms for over 20 years. I enjoy challenging clients to get outside their comfort zone so I can assist them in creating a meaningful life. I use ACT, CBT and psychoeducation to give clients the tools they need to meet their goals and improve their lives.

Denise Etherton

(she/her)

Denise Etherton, LPC - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
24 years of experience
Virtual
Finding a therapist you can identify with, feeling heard & accepted can be a challenging feat. Therapists are not one size fits all. We are people with problems, just like you. I offer you over 20 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse treatment world. I have an undergraduate degree in psychology (2001) and a graduate degree (2006) in professional counseling. With working 10 of those years in a hospital setting, I also have a decent handle on possible medical issues you might need to be referred for. After more life experience, I became a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2016 and opened my private practice. I can't tell you all the answers to life's problems, but together we can come to what the best decision will be for you in particular. Your goals and values are worth exploring. Your likes and dislikes matter. Your happiness is not selfish.

Jenifer Pittman

Jenifer Pittman, LPC - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
17 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri and Illinois. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults from diverse backgrounds and in a variety of settings. Life comes with many challenges and we often find ourselves overwhelmed by what has come our way. Together we can identify concerns and find ways to move through life challenges. Through exploring and learning ways to manage emotions, I feel there are opportunities for growth. I believe it is important to identify individual strengths and will guide you towards positive self worth. Whether you are looking for short-term or long-term counseling, I will work with you to achieve a greater self-fulfillment.

Chiwoo Choi

(he/him)

Chiwoo Choi, LPC - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Chiwoo, and I'm a licensed professional counselor (LPC) serving clients in Missouri and Florida. I support individuals who tend to overthink and prioritize others' needs, helping them find relief and improve their well-being. By integrating evidence-based therapy with a compassionate approach, I help dismantle unhealthy thought patterns and equip clients with practical tools they can use immediately.

Christina Sharp

(she/her)

Christina Sharp, LCSW - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am Christina Sharp. I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of Missouri and went on to get my clinical license (LCSW). I reside in Missouri and I am licensed in Missouri, Nevada, Illinois and Massachusetts. I have worked for clinics and have seen clients in-person, via telehealth, and in-home. I now have my own private practice and see client's via telehealth. I am a wife and a mother to an amazing young daughter, who I love to spend my off time with. I am also an animal lover with three of my own; my 8yr old dog Phoenix, and my litter-mate 11yr old cats Radar and Ziva. My self-care includes spending time out in nature with my family, including getting my hands dirty in my garden. I enjoy reading and spending quality time with my young child. Over the winter months, I also enjoy crocheting and learning new skills.

Peggy Dunn

Peggy Dunn, LPC - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
Meet Peggy Dunn, LPC, CLC, CFMHC Mindset Mentor. Emotional Eating Coach & Mental Health Therapist. For over 15 years, I’ve guided ambitious, high-achieving women through anxiety, stress, PTSD, depression, and emotional eating. Using my signature Release It Now!™ 5-Step Process, I help clients heal from the inside out — restoring peace, self-worth, confidence, and emotional resilience. I believe that when you heal the emotional roots beneath your behaviors, lasting freedom follows. How I Help: The Release and Heal It Now!™ 5-Step Process This isn’t a quick fix. It’s a proven, structured, and compassionate method to help you identify, heal, and release the underlying causes of your emotional and behavioral struggles — creating room for a healthier, happier you. 1️⃣ REVEAL: Uncover What’s Really Going On Anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, and emotional eating are symptoms of deeper emotional wounds and unhelpful thought patterns. 2️⃣ RELEASE: Let Go of Limiting Beliefs and Emotional Blocks This creates space for healthier beliefs and habits to take root. 3️⃣ REPROGRAM: Reshape Your Thoughts, Rewire Your Reactions Your brain can be retrained. In this phase, we’ll install new, empowering thought patterns and coping strategies. 4️⃣ RESTORE: Build Sustainable, Healthy Habits Healing isn’t just mental — it’s physical and emotional too. Together, we’ll create simple, sustainable habits. 5️⃣ REJOICE: Celebrate Progress, Foster Gratitude, Live Joyfully Recovery isn’t linear — it’s about progress, not perfection.

Lisa Coleman

Lisa Coleman, LCSW - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 22yrs of experience working with individuals from all walks of life, and I love working with individuals in helping them with life challenges and barriers to their happiness and living their best life. My strengths include being a good listener, starting where the client is in their life, helping them to change the things that no longer serve them well.

Sandra Italiano

Sandra Italiano, LPC - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
I have a Master of Arts degree in forensic psychology and have maintained a career within the criminal justice system for over two decades. In addition, I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor, in Missouri, for over eight years. I am also a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida. My purpose in life is to inspire, empower and support others so they can develop into, and function from, their best selves. This fueled my desire to form Stronger Than Fear, LLC, a company that offers coaching, therapy, and empowerment services, and to publish the Stronger Than Fear Empowerment Journal.

Rachel Williamson

(she/her)

Rachel Williamson, LPC - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I’m Rachel Williamson, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over a decade of experience in mental health. I specialize in helping individuals navigate trauma, life transitions, and complex emotional challenges with compassion and evidence-based care. I hold bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Criminal Justice and a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology. My clinical approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy for trauma, and I also integrate , Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, and Experiential Therapy to meet each client’s unique needs. My background includes working with individuals facing substance use issues, chronic mental health, and those battling life changes. I’m passionate about creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel empowered to grow, heal, and move forward.

Joleen Halloran

(she/her)

Joleen Halloran, LPC - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
I love being horribly straightforward with my clients. Coming to therapy can be uncomfortable, but the pay-offs are often life-changing. My passion is to help clients experience healing, balance, peace, and empowerment using holistic and integrative psychotherapy. Realizing that everyone’s mental health needs are unique, I specialize in providing tailored treatment plans that incorporate the latest evidence-based treatment methods with your specific objectives in seeking counseling. I am committed to working with you to see the results you wish to achieve in therapy. Besides my graduate studies, I have additional training/focus on anxiety, depression, and trauma based therapies and I use a variety of interventions to meet your personal needs/issues. I have also focused my post-graduate studies on positive psychology, holistic methods, and integrated therapies. Use me!! Work with me to use my skills/knowledge to meet your objectives to live a better life.

Latona Burns

(she/her)

Latona Burns, LPC - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
13 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I have worked with the mental health and IDD populations with over 10 years experience. I have a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education and a Masters Degree in Professional Counseling. I have a passion in helping others find creative ways to manage their feelings and emotions and stay well with learned coping skills.

Jocelyn Acoff

(she/her)

Jocelyn Acoff, LPC - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
13 years of experience
Virtual
Hey, I'm Jocelyn. Are you struggling with accomplishing your life goals or feeling stuck? I offer confidential individual psychotherapy sessions to adult, young adults, and teens 13 or older who are struggling with anxiety, depression, psychotic mental health diagnoses, grief and many other life issues. I have been in the mental health field for over 10 years. Private practice for 3 years. I've worked with clients in residential, corrections, rehabilitation, and community mental health. I have helped clients reconnect with themselves and improve their coping skills. I also enjoy helping clients access needed resources. Therapy has helped me during a difficult time in my life as well. Being a mental health therapist is more than a profession to me, it's a passion. I offer evening and some weekend appointments because I understand life can be busy. Let's make some changes together!!

Andrea Onukwue

Andrea Onukwue, LCSW - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
Freedom of mind. Don’t let worrying, about your past or current life stressors take up any more free real estate in your mind. Worrying offers NO RETURN on your investment. I’m Andrea Onukwue! It’s a pleasure and privilege to welcome you to Freed Mind Consulting, LLC. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with Psychotherapy Privileges licensed to practice independently in the states of MO and NY. For the past five years, I've had my full-time private practice. Over the past 20 years, I’ve practiced in a variety of settings and contexts as a practitioner, C-suite executive employee assistance consultant, and senior executive leader. I’m dually credentialed as a psychotherapist and educational leader. I know people and have extensive experience journeying with individuals from all walks of life, as they seek greater clarity, wellness, fulfillment, and peace. My clients describe me as: Honest, easy to talk to, and highly competent in providing goal-directed care that achieves results. Levity and life application are always an integrated aspect of normalizing the treatment experience. My approach emphasizes cultivating a freed mindset as essential to a healthy, productive, and enjoyable life. It also emphasizes improving communication, managing expectations, and establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries in interpersonal connections. Something that stands out about where I offer therapy is: Your telehealth session can occur in your own indoor or outdoor private space as long as you have a stable connection, are comfortable, and not operating a vehicle in your state of residence.

Veronica Johnson

(she/her)

Veronica Johnson, LPC - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC
18 years of experience
Virtual
I believe in working collaboratively with you to help you define the tools needed to overcome obstacles, deescalate situations, make better choices and negotiate positive outcomes to be the best you can be. My goal is to help you grow, regain peace, joy and healing in your life by providing nonjudgmental counseling, partnership, empathy, encouragement and support to achieve wellness.

Susan Ennis

Susan Ennis, LCSW - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, and thank you for taking the first step in your journey to a better you! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor. My career spans twenty years of working with Adults, Kiddos and Families through the multiple stressors life can present. I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, ADHD, Childrens Behavioral Issues, Illness Management and Trauma. I have an extensive history of working with Helping Professionals. I will bring to you my experience in current therapeutic models, and evidence-based modalities to help you find ways to cope at this time in your life.

Chris Elliott

(he/him)

Chris Elliott, LCSW - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Chris Elliott is a licensed clinical social worker with more than a decade of experience in providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families. His clinical approach integrates evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness based interventions. Chris focuses on helping clients build psychological flexibility, process trauma, and align their actions with personal values to foster meaningful, lasting change.

Cynthia Cochran

Cynthia Cochran, LCSW - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Florida. I am licensed in several states including Florida, Kansas, Colorado, Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee and Nevada. I received my Masters from the University of Kansas and have been practicing for 20 years. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. I am here to be a support and guide to help you feel better and move forward in your journey.

Barry Johnson

Barry Johnson, LCSW - Missouri Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome to Grow Therapy. I'm Barry Johnson, a licensed therapist in Missouri. I work with adults to help understand and navigate troubled relationships, life transitions big and small, career and school worries, parenting stress, health-related challenges and more. As a former therapist at the Department of Defense and the Veterans Health Administration, I helped service members achieve their mental health goals. Whether it was combat stress stemming from tours in Iraq or relationship troubles at home, my aim was to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for soldiers to share their stories. Today, as a private practitioner, I am excited and honored to put that experience to work for you. It may sound cliche, but the world can feel like a combat zone. And our place in the world can may feel confusing and purposeless, with no direction. Having someone to talk to can really help. I offer evidence-based approaches along with traditional talk therapy supported by a person-centered "you first" philosophy.

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Missouri rather than a city like Kansas City?

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 Missouri from Saint Louis to Springfield! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Missouri.

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.