Optum Therapists in North Carolina

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 332 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:

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
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
Humorous
Warm
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Eating Disorders
+7
Hi, I’m Kelly! I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker in the state of NC. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist. I have been working as an outpatient child/adolescent therapist since 2021. My goal as a therapist is to create an environment that you feel comfortable growing in and allowing you the space to heal. I want to work as a team to develop healthy patterns in your life! I have experience with treating children/adolescents and young adults (18-25) with anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, and self-harm. I also have experience working with young adults that are transitioning to/from college. My approach to therapy is warm, inviting, and I love to incorporate humor in sessions when appropriate. I am here to support you through healing and growth!
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+9
As an Adlerian therapist, my goal is to help individuals who feel "stuck" in life move toward personal growth and greater fulfillment. I believe that everyone has unique strengths, and my approach is to help you identify and reconnect with these strengths, empowering you to find joy in everyday life. I focus on creating a safe, trusting relationship where we work together to explore your past experiences, beliefs, and life goals, while fostering a deeper awareness of the mind-body connection. Through this collaborative process, I aim to support you in embracing who you are, building self-acceptance, and moving forward with a sense of purpose and direction. By emphasizing rapport and understanding, I strive to ensure that your overall therapy experience is meaningful, impactful, and transformative. Together, we'll work to create a life where you feel more confident, connected, and capable of overcoming challenges with resilience and joy.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+9
I’m a licensed clinical mental health counselor in North Carolina who works with adults navigating a variety of concerns like anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions. I focus on creating a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients can feel safe being honest and vulnerable. My goal is to help people understand themselves better, develop practical tools, and create meaningful change in their lives.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Spirituality
+10
I am a fully licensed clinical social worker. I live helping individuals identify their Wirth and strengths they possess to achieve their goals. I have successfully helped women, especially, to work through relationship and parenting issues. I enjoy assisting individuals in settling healthy boundaries and in developing skills needed to effectively and productively be present in their lives. I believe it is impotant to listen to what clients need and want. My clients report feeling comfortable and heard in mu sesions. Some were in counseling prior to working with me and state I have been very beneifical.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Humorous
Open-minded
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Hi, my name is Jonathon Payne and I am a practicing Licensed Clinical Mental Health Clinician, LCMHC, with the State of North Carolina with over 18 years of experience. Most of my work experience has come from working with individuals in crisis settings and or situations. The work has always been challenging, humbling, and rewarding. It has taught me the value of true genuineness and the importance of being able to connect with people and build working relationships. I love therapy. I respect the therapeutic process and value the hard work and introspection it requires. Therapy is something that I am passionate about. Everyday it provides me an opportunity to help others and learn from others. I am proud of the things I have learned, but even more humbled and optimistic of things that I continue to learn. One thing I would tell you is that a have a real passion and commitment to counseling and the therapeutic process. It is and has been what I love to do. I put tremendous value on the importance communication, language, and building a good therapeutic relationship or rapport. Its important to me that you, the patient feel safe, heard, and valued. My counseling style is very laid back and supportive, with a very non-judgmental stance. However, I am not afraid to roll my sleeves up and work hard. I believe in being supportive, motivating, and challenging. Its important that you have the opportunity to work hard, learn, grow, while developing realistic attainable and measurable goals.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi! I'm a LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS based in North Carolina and practicing in NC, SC, GA, TX, AZ, MA, ME, RI, NH and US VI. I received my Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University and two Masters from Webster University in Counseling and Health Administration. I have been practicing for over 20 years and enjoy working with a diverse population of people. I have several areas of expertise and enjoy using them to support my clients in their overall life goals and plans for success.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Life Transitions
Military/Veterans
Women's Issues
+7
Change can be scary, but it doesn't have to be. We all face situations throughout life that can make us feel overwhelmed and in need of support, encouragement, strategic planning or goal setting. You are not alone. I provide a safe, warm and friendly environment for growth and healing. You may need support in family life transitions, a parent-child relationship, peers groups, marriage, divorce, social issues, academic challenges or behavioral issues. While we are working together, I take a collaborative approach to help you to achieve your goals and overcome the challenges you're facing in life. I am here to support and empower you on your personal journey. Recognizing when issues in life have become too much to handle alone and seeking assistance is a great first step on your healing journey. It takes a lot of courage to reach out to someone, so I applaud you on taking that first huge step.
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
Empowering
Warm
Authentic
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
+10
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, mood disorders, gender identity issues, relationship challenges, or any other mental health concerns? If so, you are not alone. I offer a diverse range of evidence-based therapies that have been scientifically proven to alleviate symptoms associated with mental health disorders. My therapeutic interventions include Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I empower those lacking motivation, encourage those who feel helpless and hopeless, and guide individuals who believe they have no purpose. I also teach coping skills to help navigate daily challenges. Let's start today on the path to regaining control of your life. I look forward to hearing from you.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Direct
Empowering
Open-minded
Specialties
Mood Disorders
Personality Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I am a native North Carolinian, raised on a farm. I find enjoyment in seeing the moment when clients in my care get it and understand themselves better. I consider myself a behaviorist at heart with a passion for utilizing DBT and working with those suffering from emotional dysregulation, self-harm and suicidal thoughts. I believe that everyone is capable of achieving a life worth living and loving. My areas of passion and expertise are in anxiety, personality disorders, depression and neurodivergence.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Warm
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Life Transitions
Spirituality
+5
Welcome. My name is Cheria Morgan, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina with over a decade of clinical experience. I work with individuals who are navigating life transitions, emotional fatigue, identity shifts, and the desire for deeper alignment in their lives. My approach is collaborative, intentional, and grounded—supporting clients as they move from insight into meaningful, sustainable change. Therapy with me is a space for clarity, integration, and growth. Together, we focus on building self-awareness, strengthening internal resources, and helping you move forward with purpose and confidence.
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
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Peer Relationships
+4
Whoever thought you could feel so alone in a world so big? While we all face similar problems, the impact can be so different. Hello! My name is Veronica Mial, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in North Carolina. Over the past ten years, I have worked with individuals and families within vulnerable populations including but not limited to those who have faced issues such as homelessness, addiction, and other trauma. Whether you are dealing with transition and change in life, struggling with implementing boundaries, or other common issues such as self-doubt, depression, or anxiety, my goal is to work with you to identify the sources of these feelings and determine a course of action to best address these issues. I am here to provide a safe space and a fresh perspective for individuals who are open to a person-centered approach. I believe in being intentional with our therapeutic approaches to ensure that it is specific and unique to your individual needs. My goal is to not make any decisions for you but to work with you and provide the necessary tools and support to help you navigate through this thing called life.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Solution oriented
Warm
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+4
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed? Maybe you’re facing relationship struggles, navigating workplace pressures, or dealing with grief or addiction? Whatever your personal challenge may be, I’m here to help. Hello, My name is Sabrina. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, committed to helping individuals like you find relief, understanding, and hope. Whether you’re struggling with everyday pressures or more complex emotional challenges, I’m here to offer guidance and support on your journey to improved mental health.
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

Often rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Open-minded
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+3
Howdy! My name is Russell and I look forward to meeting you and working together! Taking the step to seek out therapy services can be the biggest hurdle to overcome, yet here you are. You made it! Even exploring options for therapy demonstrates the motivation that you have for positive change in your life. I enjoy taking a collaborative approach to working with all of my clients because you are the expert in your own life and know yourself the best. I am here as a support while you discover more about yourself. I am a LCMHC (Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor) with the state of North Carolina. I have a background working with various ages and demographics in a variety of settings. This includes children aged 6+ to pre-teens, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I have worked in inpatient hospital settings, assisted with Intensive In-Home services for at-risk youth and their families, as well as with clients in traditional office-based environments providing outpatient therapy. My clinical expertise and the most frequent concerns that I help clients with are anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger management, relationship issues, family issues, and phase of life concerns. I tend to naturally gravitate toward adolescents who are struggling with navigating their lives, however, I enjoy working with all individuals regardless of age or background since life is a struggle for all of us. I tend to take a laid-back, relaxed (but professional) stance when working with clients to make the therapeutic process as welcoming and comfortable as possible!
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Trauma and PTSD
+3
Hello, I am a licensed professional therapist in North Carolina. My experience has centered on working with diverse populations, from military-affiliated, college, and community behavioral health and private practice. Working within these settings has allowed my involvement with various ages, genders, cultures, and life experiences. My theoretical orientation is Constructivism; therefore, I need to understand my client's life perspectives and how that has influenced their worldview. In working with clients, I also practice an integrated approach using constructivism, person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, solution-focused therapies, and others. Person-centered focuses on the client and allows the client to process feelings and thoughts in a non-judgmental environment with unconditional positive regard. Cognitive-behavioral therapy focuses on the role of thinking in the process of influencing a person's feelings of well-being and how controlling thoughts can affect mental health. This approach maintains the link between emotions and behaviors in the cognitive process. The humanistic therapeutic method emphasizes the counseling relationship and the importance of quality, genuineness, positive regard, and empathy in the counseling relationship. Solution-focused therapy utilizes skills already present to help navigate current concerns, focusing on being present and checking facts on emotions and feelings that might direct reactive responses to stressors. Constructivism proves the space for cultural humility and openness to worldviews I might not have had the privilege to interact with previously.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida and NC. I received my Master of Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, TX., and have been practicing in North Carolina and Florida for since 2018. I help children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly set boundaries, learn coping skills, and foster positive communication to overcome challenges they have faced throughout life. I am also certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, ADHD, and Parent Instructor.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+5
Hello! I’m Kimberly, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience supporting adults through anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life transitions. I am licensed in North Carolina and Virginia, and my practice is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and evidence-based care. I integrate cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing with a deep respect for your lived experience. I specialize in working with individuals who are ready to reconnect with their inner strength, set healthy boundaries, and move forward with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply seeking a space to reflect and grow, I offer a safe, nonjudgmental environment where healing and transformation can begin. Together, we’ll focus not just on symptom relief—but on building emotional resilience, self-compassion, and lasting empowerment. My approach is holistic and client-centered, honoring the connection between mind, body, and spirit. You deserve support that sees you fully and helps you thrive. Let's get started!!
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

Often rebooked

Solution oriented
Authentic
Intelligent
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
+5
My practice over the past 30 years as an LCMHC has allowed me to help people of diverse backgrounds overcome a variety of life's challenges. I help people by meeting with them, learning about their problems and discovering ways for them to feel more at ease. The most common issues that I help people with involve their moods (for example sadness, worrying, anger or stress) and with their relationships. All types of people come to see me; people just like you who have hit a bump in the road and want to help themselves feel better again. I've focused on adults and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, controlling anger, family conflict, substance abuse, and behavioral issues. If you're looking for someone to help, I'd welcome your call!
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
Solution oriented
Direct
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Men's Issues
+6
Hello, my name is Stephen Pleasant, and I'm a psychotherapist for men. Why therapy for men? Well, because sometimes a man just needs a pork shoulder to cry on. That being said, I will also work with women as well. It’s a recognized human tendency for men to get “stuck” in their lives and to end up “settling” for the status quo when deep down they know they are capable of a great deal more. Here’s the truth; You are never “stuck” with your present circumstances. The Game of Life is a psychological and spiritual journey and winning at this game requires you to change your play and learn to think differently and do things in a new way. I help men break out from being “stuck” in life, resigned to producing results that are disappointing to them and others. My goal is to see transformative progress in men’s confidence, clarity, and self-expression, so that they may gain the fuller personal and work life they thought was beyond them.
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.