Optum Therapists in North Carolina

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 418 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: 3/2/2026

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.
VirtualAvailable
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Solution oriented
Empowering
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.
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Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
+6
Hello! I’m Ally (she/her), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. It can be difficult to navigate all the changes and pressures that come with being a teen or an adult. You might feel overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck during a life transition, or just not like yourself. These challenges can make it hard to feel confident or connected in your daily life. Whether you're managing stress, developing coping skills, or exploring who you are, therapy can be a supportive space to gain clarity and feel more grounded. I’m here to walk alongside you as you work through what’s holding you back. I use a collaborative, warm, and direct approach, respecting that you’re the expert on your own life. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Strengths based therapy. With the right support I believe you can grow more in tune with your emotions and find the right coping skills that genuinely work for you. You deserve a space where you can feel truly seen, heard, and empowered to be yourself.
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Empowering
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+9
Hello! Thank you for taking the time to read my biography. I am so happy you went with your instinct to start counseling. I have been a Therapist for over 15 years and my specialization is marriage and family therapy. I have over 30 years experience working with people in one capacity or another. I was a substitute teacher at an alternative high school; I was a silver star rescue diver and an EMT-Intermediate; and, I had worked at a psychiatric hospital for people ages 12 through 80 as well in a private psychiatric office. These few noted experiences have led to my capacity to be an empathetic Therapist while helping others achieve their own goals using their own strengths.
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Authentic
Warm
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Hello, Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or like life is taking over? It's completely natural to experience these emotions from time to time, but you don't have to navigate these challenges alone. My name is Latonya Badger, and I'm an experienced and compassionate mental health provider here to support you on your journey towards well-being and happiness. I have 4+ years of experience in the mental health field, I am a licensed therapist dedicated to helping individuals like you find balance, resilience, and inner strength. My approach is client-centered, meaning I tailor each session to your unique needs and circumstances. Together, we'll work collaboratively to address your concerns and develop personalized strategies to cope with life's stressors.
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Authentic
Humorous
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Self Esteem
I am a licensed clinical social worker in private practice since 1996. I have experience working in a multitude of worked in both inpatient and outpatient facilities. I have training in short term solution, focused therapy, addressing interpersonal, developmental an existential concerns. I am also well-versed in cognitive behavioral therapy. I seek to offer practical goals and objectives to my clients to address the changes they are seeking.
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Open-minded
Intelligent
Challenging

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+5
Hey there! I'm a licensed mental health counselor in North Carolina and certified in South Carolina. Helping people navigate through anxiety, adjustment issues, and depression is more than just a job for me—it's a passion. I genuinely want to see you live a happier, more fulfilling life and achieve the goals you've set for yourself. With over a decade of experience working with adults facing mental health and substance use challenges, I've seen firsthand how resilient people can be. I firmly believe that you're the expert of your own life. My role? To highlight your inherent strengths and help you build on them. My approach is all about focusing on what you're good at, rather than what you're struggling with. Together, we'll create a warm, supportive space where you can truly flourish and take control of your life. I'm currently open to new clients and accept a range of insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, and United Health Care. I also offer self-pay options. Plus, I provide online therapy sessions for added convenience.
VirtualAvailable
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Solution oriented
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+6
You are stressed and filled with anxiety. Your thoughts are negative and you lack self-confidence. You feel so overwhelmed by emotions that you no longer know what you feel. Or maybe you are emotionally shutdown and just feel numb. Past traumatic events cause you to react to life in unhealthy ways. Intrusive thoughts keep distracting you from what you need to do each day. And you don’t understand why or how to change it. If any of this sounds familiar, there is hope! It is possible to retrain your brain and to develop different ways of thinking about life. You can stop automatically reacting and learn to thoughtfully respond to stressors. I would love to work with you and help you better manage thoughts and stressful emotions.
VirtualAvailable
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Solution oriented
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
I'm Angela Harrington with 10 years please experience in mental health, co-occurring disorders, and substance abuse disorders. My goal in therapy is to elicit change talk, provide positive insight, and motivation to free yourself. When working with clients my structured approach is from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) where the individual learns to explore the link between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
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Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+5
Welcome! I'm Stephanie Freeman,MSW, LCSW, LCAS. Take a moment to acknowledge you've taken the first step towards bettering your mental health because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and/or self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life. Counseling can foster personal development in whatever way you may be seeking and help build the life you so deeply deserve. If that's what you're looking for, I'm here when you're ready to share.
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Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+1
I provide a non-judgmental, genuine, and warm atmosphere that helps clients feel at ease from the start. My passion is supporting people through a wide range of challenges — whether it’s everyday stress related to relationships, work, or school, or deeper, long-standing issues rooted in childhood or past trauma. No matter where you’re starting from, my goal is to help you develop a stronger, more grounded, and content sense of self.
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Often rebooked

Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Sexual Abuse
Trauma and PTSD
With 9 years' experience, I help children, teens, adults & families heal from trauma using TF-CBT, AF-CBT & CPT. I offer a safe, supportive space to process pain, build resilience & create lasting change. Whether you're a parent or adult facing the past, we'll work together to move forward with strength & hope. If you’ve experienced trauma like sexual or physical abuse, you’re not alone. Healing is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone. I offer a safe, supportive space to help you process pain and rebuild. When you're ready, I’m here to walk with you on your path to healing.
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Empowering
Solution oriented
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+7
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I hold a Masters Degree in Social Work from Albany State University and I am licensed in the states of Florida, North Carolina, and Washington State. I earned the TeleMental Health Training Certificate (THTC) through the completion of the comprehensive THTC program through the Telehealth Certification Institute. I am a wife, mother and grandmother. I currently resides in North Carolina, where I enjoys reading, yoga, listening to music, and spending time with her family and friends. My passion is working to bring peace of mind, contentment, and positive self-empowerment to the lives of others.
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Often rebooked

Solution oriented
Intelligent
Direct

Specialties

Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Spirituality
+9
Hello there! Congratulations on taking the first step towards making a positive change in your life! I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) based in North Carolina and Florida. I specialize in working with adults ages 18 and over. My main goal is to empower you to break down the barriers that are holding you back from living as your true, authentic self. By utilizing a range of therapeutic approaches, I aim to help you develop the necessary tools to cope with life's challenges and overcome any obstacles you may be facing.
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Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

ADHD
Autism
Depression
+5
I am a compassionate, client-centered therapist who primarily works from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach. I believe that our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are deeply connected, and that by increasing awareness of these patterns, meaningful and lasting change is possible. I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel safe exploring challenges, gaining insight, and learning practical skills to improve their emotional well-being. I understand that reaching out for therapy can feel intimidating, and I work collaboratively with clients to help them feel empowered, understood, and supported throughout the therapeutic process.
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Warm
Intelligent
Direct

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+4
I am licensed as a social worker as well as an addiction specialist. My ideal client is struggling to understand how substance use and misuse is effecting their life.Maybe they are questioning their own use, or that of their partner, children, or they grew up with alcoholics in the household. I also love working with people with depression and anxiety who want to examine where they are at and where they might want to go. I love thinking outside the box and encouraging new ways of seeing the world and its possibilities.
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Warm
Holistic

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.
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Intelligent
Authentic

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
Hello! My name is Jeff Helms. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor based in North Carolina. Additionally, I am a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) in the state of South Carolina. I received my Masters from the Palm Beach Atlantic University and have been practicing for 10 years. I help adults struggling with depression and anxiety as well as trauma. Additionally I am EMDR trained.
VirtualAvailable
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Empowering
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+3
Hello. Are you stressed, stuck, and struggling? Do you feel disconnected from others and as if your life is just passing you by? Have you recently gone through a life transition that literally almost took you out mentally? I'm Tonya T, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a passion for helping individuals break free from the shadows of depression and anxiety, navigate life's challenging transitions, and discover their path to personal growth and fulfillment. I work with individuals who are tired of stagnation and recognize that there is a next level in life for them to attain. I specialize in creating a safe and empathetic space where you can explore your feelings, challenge negative thought patterns, and develop practical coping strategies. Together, we'll work to alleviate your emotional suffering and reignite your zest for life. I'm dedicated to helping you break free from stagnation, rediscover your passions and purpose, and set achievable goals for your future. Let's explore your inner strengths and resources to reignite your motivation and drive. I am THAT therapist who believes in movement. Talk soon!
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Authentic
Intelligent
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Women's Issues
+7
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the owner of Seaside Legacy Counseling, PLLC. I received an undergraduate degree in Psychology, as well as a Masters of Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. I have been licensed for over ten years and have experience in a variety of settings including residential treatment, clinical mental health and several schools. I have worked with both children and adult clients experiencing a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, grief, relationship conflicts, low motivation and difficulty concentrating. I have a wealth of experience partnering with high school aged children, young adults attending college and/or professional careers as well as older adults. I welcome LGBTQIA2S+ clients, and I am a proud and active ally.
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Authentic
Humorous
Solution oriented

Specialties

ADHD
Anger Management
Anxiety
+8
My name is Daniel OIaciregui M.S. , LMHC. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I have been working as a therapist since 2017. I have the pleasure of working with a wide variety of clients. I have been working with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, trauma, first responders, and Bipolar clients. I am versed in several modalities including Gestalt, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Trauma, and EMDR trained. I utilize these approaches with my clients to help address and manage their needs. I believe it is essential to create a partnership with clients to maximize success. I believe increasing one's quality of life is key to better living. I appreciate and respect the courage it takes to ask for help, and am grateful for the opportunity to assist others.
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Often rebooked

Warm
Empowering

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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Intelligent
Solution oriented
Open-minded

Specialties

Anger Management
Coping Skills
Depression
Hi there! A lot of people think therapy is a one-sided conversation, with little opportunity to experience each other as real people. My clients know that I am as real as it gets! I want to help you achieve your goals, learn more about yourself, and understand how your mind and brain work. While progressing along this path, you will enjoy the process of learning about yourself and perceiving yourself in new ways. My experience is that therapy doesn't need to be painful. I know it can be intimidating to call a therapist, but I hope you will call me and see how I can help you. My background is in neuropsychology, so I enjoy helping people understand how their brains work, in order to find the best way to manage anxiety, depression, and just plain dealing with life!
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Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+5
Welcome, my name is Jenilee Hopkins. I’m a passionate therapist who believes that healing begins in a space of safety, compassion, and genuine connection. If you're feeling weighed down by life and need someone to help you, I’m here for you. Together, we'll explore patterns, nurture self-compassion, and uncover the inner wisdom that supports authentic change. I’m here to walk with you on your journey, side by side. Remember, you’re not alone. There is hope for a brighter future and lasting change.
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Open-minded
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+4
I am a down-to-earth and attentive professional dedicated to helping my clients overcome life’s obstacles. My approach creates a relaxed, conversational environment where clients feel at ease to explore their thoughts, emotions, and challenges. By working collaboratively, I empower individuals to uncover insights and solutions that align with their goals. I believe in meeting my clients where they are, fostering a supportive and non-judgmental space where we can navigate difficulties together. Whether you’re facing personal, relational, or emotional challenges, my goal is to walk alongside you, helping you gain clarity, build resilience, and move forward with confidence and purpose.
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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 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.

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.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

What happens during the first therapy session?

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.