Optum Therapists in North Carolina

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 483 verified therapists in North Carolina 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.

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Charlotte

Availability updated: 12/5/2025

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Life Transitions
Physical Health Condition
Women's Issues
+4
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who brings over 30 years' experience in the areas of mental health and substance abuse treatment utilizing a holistic health approach. I have supported homeless Veterans and others while working with community, State and Federal agencies. Providing insight and discovery into underlying issues that lead to clients related situations, I focus on each clients' strengths and believe that everyone is able to overcome challenges by being supported and empowered as they seek to achieve their vision of wellness. Without judgement and allowing for a safe environment to express one's thoughts, I strive to make every client's experience individualized and tailored to their needs.
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Solution oriented
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Depression
+6
Welcome! My name is Kalyn and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in North Carolina and South Carolina, with a Master of Science in Human Development from Virginia Tech. I have 6 years of experience working with individuals of various ages and diverse backgrounds on a range of issues, including relational problems, couples counseling, communication challenges, depression, anxiety, emotional regulation, and mood disorders. My approach is collaborative, person-centered, and strengths-based, always striving to understand and cater to the unique needs of each individual I work with. I use elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), family/systems therapy, and supportive therapy to create a welcoming and open environment. It is a space where you can freely explore your emotions, build up your strength, and work towards making the positive changes you aspire to achieve—all without any judgment.
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Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Career Counseling
Depression
+7
Welcome — I’m John Dyson, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC), based in the foothills of North Carolina. I want you to take a moment to acknowledge that you’ve already taken the first step toward bettering your mental health. Let’s be honest — starting therapy can feel empowering, confusing, or even scary — sometimes all at once. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you can explore concerns related to anxiety, depression, and self-care. I focus on helping clients build assertive communication skills and healthy boundaries, both with themselves and with others, in ways that support a more balanced, fulfilling life. Therapy is an opportunity for personal growth in whatever way you're seeking — whether that means navigating specific challenges or building the life you deeply deserve. If that’s what you’re looking for, I’m here when you’re ready. Together, we’ll clarify the challenges you’re facing and identify where you want to be — a month, six months, or a year from now. Then, we’ll explore actionable strategies to help you move forward. You'll leave each session with a clearer understanding of your situation and a set of “next steps” you can begin right away. There will always be space for feedback and collaboration in our work — including holding each other accountable as we walk this path together.
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Frequently rebooked

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+6
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in NC and a Licensed Professional Counselor in SC. I received my Master's Degree from Montreat College. I have been practicing professional counseling for 9 years. I help those ages 16+ learn how to navigate life, manage stressors, identify and manage emotions while building coping skills and learning to reframe negative thoughts.
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Direct
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi, I’m Kendrick Burden, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about helping people reconnect with their truest selves. I work with individuals who are navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and high-pressure transitions especially when life feels heavy or unclear. Whether you're processing loss, healing from old wounds, or trying to realign with who you were created to be, therapy is a space to pause, reflect, and move forward with intention. My approach blends evidence-based tools like EMDR, CBT, and ACT with compassion and faith-based support when desired. Together, we’ll identify what’s been holding you back and chart a new path grounded in your values and strengths. My hope is to help you feel more anchored, more empowered, and more at peace with the life you’re creating.
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Specialties

Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
+10
I am a caring and compassionate provider. I enjoy helping people discover their strengths and abilities. I am a very direct therapist but I will walk along side you and help you navigate through life's challanges. I will equip you with the tools you need to overcome the obstacles that you are facing as we determine the best way to walk through them together.
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Frequently rebooked

Intelligent
Humorous
Holistic

Specialties

Addiction
Depression
Mood Disorders
Hi, I'm a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Clinician. I am a mental health and substance abuse therapist licensed in North Carolina with over 15 years experience working in the mental health field. I am certified in DBT and sex offender treatment. I have worked with an array of consumers; children through seniors. I have worked with consumers suffering with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and substance abuse issues.
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Humorous
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+8
Hi, my name is Leslie Travia. I grew up as one of six children and now enjoy spending time whenever possible with my siblings, my many nieces, nephews, and their children. I have two grown children of my own and have been married for over 30 years. Over the years, my family and I have lived in 10 different states as well as in Europe, and I believe each place has deepened my appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives. I also believe we are never too old to learn something new. I value self-empowerment and strive to surround myself with positivity and kindness.
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Frequently rebooked

Specialties

Addiction
Self Esteem
Spirituality
+5
Hi! I am a dually licensed therapist in both Florida and North Carolina. I began my education later in my adult life, and believed I had arrived late to the game. But I found that life experience paired with my own belief system, allowed me the opportunity to view life's challenges through a unique lens, and because of that I am non-judgmental and empathetic towards people who are struggling with the hurts life has dealt them. I believe in using a collaborative approach in helping my clients. I use evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and Motivational Therapy, as well as Christian Counseling. I am supportive, yet direct with empathy, compassion and help you address the barriers in your life that are causing you pain and distress.
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Specialties

Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Sophire Nelson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and negative self-image. A North Carolina native, Sophire takes a holistic and client-centered approach to therapy, integrating evidence-based practices such as Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). She is also certified in the Safe and Sound Protocol—a listening-based intervention designed to help regulate the nervous system and reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress. Sophire is known for creating a warm, nurturing, and authentic therapeutic space where clients feel supported to explore the root causes of their challenges. She believes that healing involves both insight and action, combining psychodynamic exploration with practical tools like CBT, meditation, and relaxation strategies to promote emotional balance and everyday well-being. Psychoeducation is a core part of Sophire’s approach. She helps clients understand how their brains and bodies respond to stress and trauma, empowering them with knowledge that fosters a deeper sense of control, safety, and self-compassion. Her goal is to walk alongside clients as they rediscover their inner strength and move toward lasting healing.
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Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+4
Minds are designed for thinking and it is human nature to make connections with others. I am dedicated to helping a client slow down to contemplate, explore, and become self-aware of their own needs, personal well-being, interests, strengths and how to relate to others. I will help clients create spaces and opportunities to practice emotional regulation, explore difficult situations, provide therapy for previous history of trauma and loss, and begin or continue a healing journey.
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Challenging

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+6
Hi, I’m Charlie Counselman, a therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and practical support. I specialize in working with clients dealing with anxiety, addiction, and depression, using evidence-based approaches like CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and 12-step facilitation. I also have extensive experience treating men's issues, agoraphobia, and trauma. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can build resilience, find clarity, and move toward lasting growth.
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New to Grow

Specialties

Spirituality
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+4
I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with years of experience helping women and healers navigate trauma, emotional challenges, and life transitions. My work blends solution-focused counseling, somatic practices, and spiritual awareness to support deep healing and personal transformation. I help clients reconnect with their inner strength, develop self-compassion, and create a sense of balance and fulfillment in all areas of life. I believe healing is holistic, and I meet each client where they are, offering guidance that addresses the mind, body, and spirit.
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Open-minded
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
+10
I am a Licensed Psychologist based in the state of North Carolina. I have an MA from the University of Minnesota and a PhD from the University of Wyoming, and have more than 35 years of clinical experience in various settings. I specialize in offering Online Counseling Services for Adults. My main field of expertise is issues relating to stress, anxiety, and depression which arise from life’s various challenges, and which keep us from living up to our full potential at work, in our relationships, and in our lives in general. I work with individuals, as well as with couples.
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Warm
Humorous

Specialties

Coping Skills
Depression
Spirituality
+7
Welcome and congratulations on taking the first step in your healing journey! First, my name is Cherie and I am originally from New York. My journey to becoming a therapist began while serving in the Army and having the opportunity to help Soldiers and their family members with personal issues/concerns. My experience led me to pursue formal schooling and training to be more of a service through therapy and providing much-needed resources to the people in need. This path has been rewarding for me, and being able to experience lives being transformed and people empowered continues to be an honor.
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Open-minded
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
School Issues
Hello! My name is Chandra and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in North Carolina. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Indiana University School of Social Work (IUPUI). I help people cope with life transitions and the stress that comes along with them. I have 19 years of experience working with youth and families in various settings.
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Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+8
I am licensed in North Carolina with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, and depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, and I am proud of you for getting started!
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Empowering
Intelligent
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Career Counseling
Depression
+9
Hi , I am Camilla Black, I am originally from New Jersey . I have a Masters degree in Counselor Education & Student Development from North Carolina State University. I am also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. I have worked in Human Services for over 20 years and I am passionate about helping others become their best selves. I have wanted to become a Counselor since I was in 8th grade. I have been fortunate enough to have a great counselor in college who took the time to really get to know me with all my strengths and flaws. He believed in me until I believed in myself and this helped me to push past my challenges without feeling like I had to be perfect. This is the counselor I strive to become everyday by helping you achieve your goals.
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Humorous
Intelligent
Open-minded

Specialties

LGBTQ
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+8
Welcome! If you are seeking a down to earth and relaxed therapist- you are in the right place! I specialize in creating a safe and affirming space for individuals within the LGBTQ+ communities- where I have lived experience, individuals navigating chronic illness and caregiving, and those impacted by hoarding behaviors. I understand how important it is to feel heard and validated, especially when dealing with sensitive topics such as gender identity, transgender health, trauma, anxiety, depression, boundary setting, communication skills, chronic disorganization, and more. I write gender affirming care letters.
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Empowering
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Coping Skills
LGBTQ
Self Esteem
I received my Master of Social Work degree in 1999; and since the completion of my degree, I have worked in an array of settings such as child welfare, geriatric case management, end-of-life care, community mental health with adults, teens and children; and addiction recovery. While I have worked with people of all ages who have presented with a variety of physical and mental health problems, I have an extensive background in substance abuse treatment. I have a knack for translating 12-step terminology into more practical terms as it relates to psychotherapy. As a person in long-term recovery myself, I have learned (and wholeheartedly believe) that it takes all possible resources to stay clean and sober, and I can help you find the tools to accomplish long-term recovery. I have also worked in the hospice/palliative care field, and am sensitive to the psychological challenges that arise from addressing our mortality and the ripple effect of serious physical health problems. As a member of the queer community, I can help support and guide you in any issues you are having navigating any related issues you may have. Whatever you are struggling with right now, my promise to you is that I am here to help you identify the root of your problems; and more importantly to find ways to alleviate the distress you have been experiencing, and to establish both short and long-term solutions.
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Open-minded
Humorous
Authentic

Specialties

Career Counseling
Men's Issues
Self Esteem
+6
Hello, my name is Tristan Thomas, a dedicated mental health professional committed to guiding individuals on their journey to wellness. With a passion for helping others and years of experience in the field, I provide compassionate support and evidence-based interventions to empower individuals to overcome challenges and thrive. Let's work together to prioritize your mental well-being and achieve your goals.
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Open-minded
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

ADHD
Depression
Substance Misuse
+5
Hi! I'm a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and licensed clinical addiction counselor (LCAS.) I went to graduate school at the University of Vermont and have provided therapy services for more than 30 years in outpatient mental health settings as well as in inpatient psychiatric and addiction treatment settings. I'm in long-term recovery from alcohol and opiate dependence. Fun fact: I worked on an offshore lobster boat in the Gulf of Maine for 4 years.
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New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Autism
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Laurie is passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges and discover new ways to heal, grow, and thrive. She works with clients facing concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, life transitions, and relationship challenges. With over 20 years of experience working with the autism spectrum disorder community, Laurie brings both expertise and compassion to her work. She understands that starting therapy can feel overwhelming, and that healing is rarely a straight path. Life ebbs and flows, and therapy is much the same—at times you may feel momentum, while at other times roadblocks may arise. Laurie meets clients where they are with patience, creativity, and encouragement, helping them move forward at their own pace. Laurie creates a warm, safe, and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable exploring emotions, challenges, and goals. She values building strong therapeutic relationships as the foundation for growth and healing. Her approach is integrative and tailored to each individual, drawing from person-centered therapy, mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and skills for emotion regulation and coping. Laurie works with children, teens, young adults, adults, couples, and families. She believes that everyone has the capacity for healing, growth, and lasting change, and she is dedicated to helping clients find tools that support their unique journeys. In addition, Laurie is a certified Prepare & Enrich Facilitator, providing specialized support for couples at all stages of their relationships.
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Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Older Adults
My name is Randy. I’m so glad you took this first step of reaching out for support! Whether you want to navigate difficulties in your life, repair relationships, or build a strong foundation for your mental and emotional wellness - I am here to help! We’ll work together to move past obstacles so you can take steps to achieve your goals. I want the therapeutic process to feel helpful and worthwhile. I work with sincerity, compassion and non-judgement, and will provide a nurturing environment where you can talk candidly about your concerns. I look forward to exploring this journey with you! I am a Carolina native and have been a licensed therapist/counselor for 19 years. I have not only seen healing and wholeness take place through therapy, but I have experienced that in my own life. Thanks for the sacred honor to assist you.
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Authentic

Specialties

Grief
Military/Veterans
Trauma and PTSD
+5
The holidays can intensify grief in ways that catch people off guard. I’ve experienced this myself, and I support adults in North Carolina and New Jersey through virtual therapy focused on grief, loss, and major life transitions. My style is warm, steady, and rooted in compassion. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 15 years of experience, I provide compassionate and culturally responsive care for adults working through grief, trauma, and the emotional weight that life transitions can bring. My goal is to offer a grounding space where you can speak freely, feel supported, and begin making sense of what you’re carrying. My approach blends empathy with evidence-based strategies, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and grief-informed practices. In our sessions, we focus on coping tools that help you manage strong emotions, reduce overwhelm, and create small moments of relief during difficult seasons. I tailor each session to your needs, your pace, and what feels most supportive for your healing. I am especially passionate about supporting Black women, Black men, Veterans, and adults of color who often hold invisible emotional burdens or face unique challenges around grief, identity, and resilience. I hold these experiences with cultural humility and deep respect for your story. Healing isn’t about “moving on.” It’s about learning to hold your experiences with more balance, clarity, and hope. Whether you’re grieving someone you love, trying to navigate an unexpected transition, or feeling emotionally weighed down, I’m here to walk alongside you with compassion and support.
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Frequently asked questions

Why filter by North Carolina rather than a city like Charlotte?

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 North Carolina from Raleigh to Greensboro! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in North Carolina.

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.