Optum Therapists in North Carolina

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 336 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.

Availability updated: 11/3/2026

Authentic
Direct
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Dissociative Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Do you feel persistently overwhelmed, as if you're fighting an uphill battle with your mental health? Is it becoming increasingly difficult to navigate life's ups and downs with serenity? Are you striving for a harmonious balance between personal life, career, and self-care? Have you ever felt like "something's wrong" but can't quite ever identify what it is, or where that feeling is coming from? I am dedicated to helping people from all walks of life better cope with stress and anxiety without compromising their drive for success. I believe in the importance of holistic wellness and integrate various therapeutic techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, and hypnosis to help you find a path to inner peace while staying productive and motivated. Whether you're grappling with stress, anxiety, grief, or unprocessed trauma, remember it's brave to reach out for help. Our collaboration will offer a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your feelings, identify your triggers, and cultivate effective coping mechanisms. Together, we will navigate the ebb and flow of your life, aiming for personal growth, tranquility, and a balanced lifestyle.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina. I obtained my Masters in Social Work from Columbia University School of Social Work. I've also attended Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, New York, where I received my Bachelor's in Behavioral Science. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy to help my clients develop and achieve their goals. My optimal goal is to ensure my clients feel safe, supportive, and empowered.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Open-minded
Warm
Specialties
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
+3
Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). I received my Masters from North Carolina Central University. I am not only passionate about mental health, but overall wellness. I work from a holistic perspective while also utilizing interventions from cognitive behavioral therapy and expressive arts therapy. I believe in a collaborative approach and that clients are the experts of their lives.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Intelligent
Challenging
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+5
Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS) and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (LCAS) in the state of North Carolina. I received a master's degree in counseling, along with a graduate certificate in substance abuse counseling, from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2010. While in graduate school, I decided to specialize in Motivational Interviewing (MI) when I discovered how well the “spirit of MI” (partnership, acceptance, compassion, and empowerment) fit with my perception of how we change and grow. Since then, I have had the opportunity to participate in several advanced MI training workshops facilitated by some of the originators of this powerful approach to facilitating change. By incorporating the components mentioned above into our counseling relationship, along with a wide variety of evidence-based approaches as needed, a collaboration is created where we work as a team to identify and build on your strengths, restructure any self-limiting beliefs, increase confidence, and progress towards the accomplishment of your goals. I started my private practice soon after graduation and have had the privilege of being part of the change process in countless lives over the past 14 years.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented
Specialties
Crisis Intervention
Depression
Hello, I'm Carrie, an LCSW therapist based in North Carolina. I received my Bachelors from Winston Salem State University and my Master's from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill with over ten years of experience as a therapist in many settings with various age groups. I practice therapy to assist others with achieving their goals in the most effective and in a timely manner.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
ADHD
LGBTQ
Life Transitions
+2
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in North Carolina. I received my Master of Social Work degree from Rutgers University in 2007 and have practiced social work (mainly a combination of behavioral health counseling, case management, and other services) since then. I help my clients feel heard, seen and understood. From our first session, I engage them in creating their own vision for therapy. Therapy with me is collaborative and relational.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Parenting
+5
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 30 years of experience in the mental health field and 14 years of experience operating my private practice. I support adults and couples experiencing anxiety, relationship distress, communication difficulties, parenting concerns, life transitions, diminished self-esteem, trauma-related concerns, and patterns that may be interfering with emotional well-being and healthier relationships. In couples counseling, I provide a balanced and respectful environment where each partner has an opportunity to feel heard. I help couples recognize recurring patterns, improve communication, navigate conflict more constructively, rebuild emotional safety and trust, and strengthen their connection. My role is not to take sides, but to help both partners understand the relationship dynamic and take meaningful responsibility for the changes within their control. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients understand the connections among their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Together, we identify beliefs and thinking patterns that may contribute to anxiety, depressed mood, diminished self-esteem, relationship distress, or ineffective coping. Depending on the client’s needs, we may use guided reflection, thought records, structured exercises, role-playing, and between-session practice. With couples, CBT-informed strategies can also help partners examine assumptions, interpretations, expectations, and behavioral responses that contribute to recurring conflict. The goal is to develop greater awareness and practice healthier, more intentional responses. My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based practices with carefully selected holistic strategies to support insight, emotional regulation, personal growth, and sustainable behavioral change. I meet each client with compassion, curiosity, and respect, helping them identify the underlying beliefs and patterns connected to their current concerns.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Family Therapy
Life Transitions
+10
Hi, I'm Debbie Howard, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). Reaching out for support takes courage, and I would be honored to walk alongside you! I have 15 years experience helping individuals, families and youth work through challenges such as life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and parenting. I also specialize in helping children and teens build resilience, confidence, and coping skills that support lasting change at home and school. My approach is warm, client-centered, and collaborative. I believe therapy should feel empowering, supportive, and tailored to your unique needs and goals. I integrate a variety of evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavior Therapy(CBT), Alternative Family CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) , mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and solution focused therapy. Together, we'll focus on building self-awareness, resilience, and lasting positive change in a safe, nonjudgmental space.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I provide individual and family therapy using a person-centered, collaborative approach that meets you where you are—without judgment and without pressure to be “fixed.” I view therapy as a partnership, and I work alongside clients to support meaningful, sustainable change. My approach focuses on helping clients identify their strengths, increase self-awareness, recognize support systems, and take accountability in ways that promote growth rather than shame. I use an eclectic, evidence-based framework, drawing from Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness-based practices. Interventions are always tailored to each client’s unique needs, goals, and lived experiences. My work is grounded in a few core beliefs: people are doing the best they can with the skills they have, people are capable of change, and people do get better. I also believe that a strong therapeutic relationship creates the safety necessary for healing and growth. To support progress outside of sessions, I may offer practical, collaborative between-session exercises that help clients apply skills in their daily lives. I am a Christian counselor, and my faith informs my values of compassion, dignity, and respect. I work with individuals from all backgrounds, beliefs, and identities, and faith is incorporated into therapy only when requested by the client. In addition to my professional role, I am a wife, lifelong learner, and mother of three, including a son on the autism spectrum. These experiences deepen my empathy and understanding of caregiving, advocacy, and navigating complex systems.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Welcome! My name is Kim, and I’m so glad you’re here. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of clinical experience, and I believe therapy should be a space where you feel heard, understood, supported and empowered to grow. My approach to therapy is eclectic, meaning I draw from a variety of therapeutic techniques and perspectives to create an experience that is tailored to your unique needs, strengths, and goals. I bring a warm, genuine, down-to-earth approach to our work together, meeting you where you are and helping you navigate life’s challenges with compassion, understanding and hope. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and welcoming space where you can feel comfortable being yourself, explore what matters most to you, and work toward meaningful changes that help you create a more fulfilling life. You don't have to navigate life's challenges alone. I'm here to walk alongside you.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Specialties
ADHD
Autism
Trauma and PTSD
+8
Hi! I'm Rebecca! I'm an AuDHD therapist. I specialize in supporting clients with trauma, autism, ADHD, and career transitions, particularly those fueled by burnout. I help clients regain their a sense of direction and safety in the world and (re)learn how to trust their own bodies and nervous systems. I also help my clients understand how to work with their brains' unique processing style. Using a trauma-informed approach, I believe in letting my clients set their own pace, whether that looks like jumping right into the hard work or taking a bit of time to feel comfortable and confident before making big changes or sharing details about the past. My therapeutic style is direct yet kind and compassionate. I make sure my clients feel heard and respected, but think it's equally important to challenge unhelpful behavioral and thought patterns. Research has found that the strength of therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in a client's success/healing, and I work hard to foster a professional yet authentic relationship built on mutual respect.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
+3
Hello! I am a licensed therapist in both North Carolina and New York. I find great fulfillment in working with individuals needing assistance in better managing their mood stability, emotions, anxiety, relationships, codependency, and life adjustment stressors. Reaching out to a new therapist for the first time can feel overwhelming and very vulnerable. My main goal is always helping potential and established clients feel safe, respected, and heard. Feel free to reach out to discuss your needs and how I may be of assistance in your emotional journey.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Open-minded
Specialties
Depression
Men's Issues
Substance Misuse
+10
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in Connecticut and North Carolina. I received my Masters degree from the University of Pittsburgh and have been practicing for 9 years. I have worked in schools, hospitals and private practice. I support adults to navigate a variety of life stresses and manage mental health that allows them achieve life goals and happiness in multiple aspects of life.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented
Specialties
First Responders/Healthcare Workers
High Clinical Acuity
Military/Veterans
+9
Hello, I'm a counselor with a background in Forensic Psychology, having worked in the field since 2004. I have the privilege of serving a diverse range of clients from various ethnicities, racial backgrounds, and socioeconomic classes. My approach is non-judgmental, patient, and easy-going, creating a safe space where you can feel heard and understood. With many years of experience working in correctional settings, particularly with individuals in acute crisis, I am passionate about helping you navigate challenges, find solutions, and work towards lasting positive change. My goal is to empower you to take control of your well-being and move forward with confidence.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Open-minded
Warm
Specialties
ADHD
LGBTQ
Women's Issues
+10
Welcome! I'm excited to embark on this journey of self-discovery and growth with you. Here, you'll find a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly and honestly. Whether you're seeking support for issues related to sex, kink, polyamory, or identity within the LGBTQ+ community, know that you're in a welcoming and affirming environment. I understand the importance of embracing diversity and celebrating the richness of human experience. My goal is to empower you to navigate these aspects of your life with confidence and authenticity. Together, we'll work collaboratively to explore your goals and develop strategies to help you live a more fulfilling and authentic life. You're not alone on this journey. I'm here to walk alongside you, offering guidance, support, and compassion every step of the way. Your courage in seeking help is a testament to your strength and resilience, and I'm honored to be a part of your healing process. Thank you for trusting me with your care. I look forward to working with you and helping you create positive change in your life.
Available
Authentic
Warm
Humorous
Specialties
Couples Counseling
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
+2
Have you ever felt like you would never get ahead in life? Have you ever been so depressed that you couldn’t get out of bed, shower, brush your teeth, or return a call or a text? Have you recently gone through a life transition and have no idea how to begin putting your life back together? Have you ever been in situations that made you so anxious or panicked that that you felt like you might be having a heart attack? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I can help guide you in making the necessary changes in your life to help you feel like a worthwhile, lovable, productive, competent, and a successful individual. Hi, I'm Suzanne. I'm a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in NC. In my 18-year career as a therapist, I have significant experience working with individuals with mental health concerns and substance use disorders. I have provided community-based therapy as well as provided therapy to addicts receiving MAT. My counseling style is very easy going. I have been described as a caring, non-judgmental, real, honest, and open therapist. I like to use humor in sessions. I hope to provide you with a non-judgmental and safe environment where you can express your thoughts and feelings, openly and honestly. I look forward to meeting you and working with you!
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Family Conflict
Grief
Women's Issues
+10
AVAILABLE EVENINGS & WEEKENDS Now accepting clients with late evening and weekend availability. As we step into a new year, many people find themselves reflecting on what they want to release, restore, and rebuild in their lives. If you are feeling ready for meaningful change—but unsure where to begin—you don’t have to do it alone. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina with 21 years of experience supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges. I specialize in helping clients manage stress and anxiety, navigate relationship challenges, work through family conflict, and strengthen motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. My therapeutic approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can openly explore your thoughts, emotions, and lived experiences. Together, we work to identify patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and build the clarity and confidence needed to move forward with intention. The beginning of a new year often brings a desire for alignment, healing, and growth. Choosing to invest in yourself—your emotional well-being, your relationships, and your future—takes courage. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready to prioritize yourself in a new way, therapy can be a powerful place to start. I am committed to walking alongside you as you work toward a more balanced, fulfilling, and authentic life—at a pace that honors your needs and your schedule. Late evening and weekend appointments available to support busy professionals, parents, and individuals seeking flexible care.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Humorous
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+8
Hi, I'm Morgan. My schedule has officially reopened to new clients! I know how isolating and tough it can feel when life gets heavier than you can carry or when you're constantly second-guessing yourself. I'm here to help untangle the tangled, and to help you find real relief from the pressures you're feeling. My clients are often people who appear to have it "together" on the outside but feel anxious, disconnected, or stuck on the inside. You don't have to do this alone.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+3
Hi, I'm a License Independent Clinician social worker (LICSW). I recieved my master degree from Simmons University and have been working primarly with women and children the majority of my career. I enjoy working with people through their transition and helping get to the otherside of difficult moments in life.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+7
Hiya. My name is Sejal Patel, and I am currently licensed in North and South Carolina, as a LMFT. As a therapist, I show curiosity when my client(s), families, and couples ask me for guidance. Majority of my clients', share the assumption, because I am a therapist, I experience minimal challenges in life and relationships. I wish that was true. My professional education and knowledge has been helpful and useful. Truthfully, the lessons I learned by experiencing failures, challenges, and struggles of life are the true heroes to how I find my solutions. I welcome your curiosity to a collaborative process that combines my professional expertise, your life experience knowledge, and the power of creative solutions.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Hi, I'm Kali (pronounced Kay-lee). I’m glad you’re here. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and my goal is to create a space where you feel safe, supported, and understood from the start. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over five years of experience. I earned my BSW from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and my MSW through the joint UNCG and North Carolina A&T program. I believe therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and I tailor treatment to each individual. Therapy is a space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. My role is to walk alongside you with guidance, education, and support as we work toward improving your quality of life. Outside of therapy, I enjoy spending time with my 2 year old and finding balance through simple, mindful moments; values I also bring into the therapeutic space.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Child or Adolescent
Life Transitions
Peer Relationships
+10
Hello, welcome to the beginning of this new therapy journey. Whether it's your first time or you've been here before - I am happy to support you in whatever you need! I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs, therapy is not one-size fits all! Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am licensed in North Carolina with seven years of professional work experience. I graduated from Appalachian State University with my Bachelors and Masters of Social Work, and have held a clinical license (LCSW) since 2019. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, life changes, anxiety, depression, motivation, self-esteem, career difficulties, school issues, financial struggles, and more. I work with any and all age groups, especially with teens and young adults. Some of my more focused expertise are life changes regarding the growing pains of adolescence, personal relationships, career changes and loss as well as relationship issues including trust, infidelity, STDs, jealousy, commitment issues, attachment issues, codependency, and more. I have worked in-home with families with kids on juvenile probation, and am trained in Functional Family Therapy - which looks closely at the functions of the family and each member's role and behaviors and how to find solutions to the presenting problems. My therapy style is very solution-focused and relatively fast paced. I typically meet with clients who need brief therapy for life changes and adjustment, or support with parenting, relationships, etc. but am able to do more long-term if desired!
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
​ Do you struggle with feeling bad about yourself, developing and /or maintaining healthy relationships with others? Do you feel down, depressed, feeling you let yourself or others down? Do you experience feelings of anxiety, stress, or trauma? Are these concerns impacting you at home, work, or other places? Seeking therapy can be scary, however, you have made the right decision. I believe individuals are the "experts on themselves" and possess the ability to make the desired positive change in their lives. In the session, we will utilize a Person Center Approach consisting of meeting the individual were they are, actively listening, providing support, encouragement, and validation, as well as utilizing Evidence -Based Treatment Modalities ( such Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Person Centered Approach, and Psychoeducation) Supportive Therapy, Stress Management, and Anger Management. Together, we will work collaboratively to treat the whole person and empower the person to find their way forward.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+5
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) based in North Carolina and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in South Carolina. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling with a Emphasis in Professional Mental Health Counseling and a Master of Arts in Human Resource Management from Webster University. I have 16+ years of Clinical experience practicing Outpatient Therapy . I assist children and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and other mental conditions with developing coping skills to manage their symptoms on a daily basis without disruptions to their lifestyles and daily functioning.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Open-minded
Direct
Specialties
Dissociative Disorders
Sexual Abuse
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Whatever brings you in—whether it is trauma, grief, dissociation, anxiety, or depression—my hope is to provide a soft place for you to land. You may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or uncomfortable in your own skin, but you are also resilient. You want to heal, but perhaps you have lost hope that true healing is possible. My practice is built on the belief that by increasing our "Window of Realness"—moving beyond just tolerating the world to fully engaging with it—we can discover our most authentic selves. I specialize in helping survivors of extreme life experiences and those navigating major transitions to claim back their power. From our very first interaction, you will feel acknowledged, respected, and empowered as a human being with valid rights and needs.
VirtualAvailable
Frequently asked questions

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in North Carolina. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.