Optum Therapists in North Carolina

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 480 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.

Find therapists near you in

Charlotte

Availability updated: 1/22/2026

Rated 5.0 stars out of 53 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 53 ratings
Solution oriented
Open-minded

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
I am Cindy Arrington, I received my Master's of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling in 2012 from Winston-Salem State University. I and am a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and Licensed Clinical Addictions Counselor - Associate. I have 5 years of experience working as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor to assist with job development, placement and follow-up. I have 4 years of experience working as a mental health and substance use counselor. I enjoy meeting my patients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, grief, trauma, and substance use to help them heal and grow to become the best versions of themselves.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.9 stars out of 5181 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 5181 ratings
Empowering
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Depression
LGBTQ
Spirituality
+3
Candace “NIX” Fritts is a licensed Zumba instructor, yoga instructor and Licensed Clinical social worker. She has been teaching Zumba over 5 years and has utilized her passion for healing and helping others as a therapist over the past decade. “NIX” specializes in and has a passion for cultural diversity, gender identity/LGBTQIA+ issues, equality, relationship/marital issues, depression, anxiety, and Trauma. She defines "empathy" as her number one skill and superpower. In addition “NIX” is a huge advocate and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She is also a member NAACP and the Black political caucus of Cabarrus County. NIX also encourages health and wellness with a belief that healing can be achieved in various ways. Fun Fact: NIX was once a contestant on “Lets make a Deal”
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 513 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 513 ratings
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
Rated 5.0 stars out of 5244 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 5244 ratings
Humorous
Authentic
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
Rated 5.0 stars out of 54 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 54 ratings
Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQ
+1
Keith Casey's approach to therapy is to be empathetic and encouraging. The most gratifying part of his job is when he sees someone embrace the idea that change is possible. He is trained in exposure-response and prevention therapy for OCD. He also likes to incorporate elements of CBT, DBT, and mindfulness into his work. He specializes in anxiety, OCD, depression, and LGBTQ+ issues.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.9 stars out of 514 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 514 ratings
Open-minded
Challenging
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
+4
Hey. My name is John Jensen, but you can call me Jake. I received my masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Campbell University and am the owner of Woodhaven Counseling PLLC. I started counseling after retiring from playing football at Wingate University and strive to assist those moving through life transitions, manage anxiety, and build confidence in their identities.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.9 stars out of 537 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 537 ratings
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
Rated 4.6 stars out of 58 ratings
Rated 4.6 stars out of 58 ratings
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.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 54 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 54 ratings
Direct
Authentic

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Mood Disorders
Substance Misuse
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I have been a social worker for 19 years, most recently in the last 7 years doing therapy. I enjoy working with people who are wanting to see change happen but have barriers stopping them from moving into action. I also enjoy working with those who have relationship dynamic issues.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 520 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 520 ratings
Authentic
Empowering

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
Rated 4.9 stars out of 510 ratings
Rated 4.9 stars out of 510 ratings
Authentic
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
+3
My name is Mark Lattimore Jr., and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I serve youth, adults, and families who are navigating trauma, grief, life transitions, and emotional challenges. My goal is to provide a safe space where clients can heal, discover their strengths, and move forward with greater hope, clarity, and resilience.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 59 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 59 ratings
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Trauma and PTSD
+5
Hi, I am a Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in North Carolina. I received my degree from Saybrook University in California and have been practicing for the past 15 years. I have specialized training in Somatic Experiencing and Attachment Therapy. I work with adults to resolve symptoms of stress, shock, and trauma that accumulate in our bodies and nervous systems transforming patterns that get stuck and impact our daily life. I support clients in bringing their nervous systems back into balance getting out of fight, flight and freeze to strengthen one's sense of safety, resourcefulness and resilience in the world. Some of the techniques I use are helping clients slow down and attune to what is happening in their bodies. I also work with clients on "resourcing" or finding tools to help them self soothe when they are feeling emotionally overloaded.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 56 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 56 ratings
Intelligent
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Autism
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi! I'm Rebecca! I've been a therapist for nearly 15 years and specialize in anxiety, trauma, and neurodiversity. I help clients regain a sense of 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 unique neurotype rather than against it. Using a trauma-informed approach, I believe in letting my clients set their own pace, whether that looks like jumping right in to the hard work or taking a bit of time to feel comfortable and confident before making big changes or sharing details about the past.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 5120 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 5120 ratings
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.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 59 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 59 ratings
Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
+9
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in North Carolina. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work with an Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology/ Minor in Criminal Justice. I began my professional career working with at-risk children, teens and their families. I then expanded into working with adults providing individual and group therapy. My professional career is roughly 15+ years. I've worked within homes, schools, residential facilities, military installations, and community based programs. I'm currently focusing on providing individual therapy within a variety of mental health disorders.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.0 stars out of 513 ratings
Rated 4.0 stars out of 513 ratings
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Post Partum
Trauma and PTSD
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) base in North Carolina. I earned my Master's Degree from East Carolina University and have accumulated 15 years of experience in the social work field, with 9 years of practice. I specialize in providing support to young adults and women going through various life transitions, particularly motherhood. I thoroughly enjoy assisting individuals during the perinatal to postpartum stages. I also specialize in guiding clients through their healing journey from past traumas, grief and loss, and burnout.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 538 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 538 ratings
Solution oriented
Warm
Humorous

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Grief
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor based in North Carolina. My experience comes from providing direct mental health care in various settings and providing grief counseling to children in school and national grief counseling settings. I have worked with children, teens, and adults with varied presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, anger management, trauma, stress, low self-esteem, Women issues, Marital/ Pre-Marital, Spirituality, Life Coaching, and family issues. I approach the therapeutic relationship with respect and dignity for each client. I walk with them on their journey to wholeness at their own pace. I worked with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds, helping them navigate their challenges. I am compassionate and a great listener. I believe in what I do and am compassionate about helping the people I serve. We all can reach our highest potential, which is what I want to help my clients obtain. Many individuals I worked with have had setbacks, but once they believe in themselves, they realize their stumbling blocks are only stepping stones to their destination. Working toward a more fulfilling and happier life takes a lot of strength and determination. If you allow me, I will walk with you on your journey. I earned a Master of Arts (MA) in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. I have six years of professional Counseling and over thirty years of experience working in human services.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.7 stars out of 523 ratings
Rated 4.7 stars out of 523 ratings
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.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 53 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 53 ratings

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Peer Relationships
Women's Issues
+5
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in North Carolina. I work with individuals including professionals, first responders, women and adolescents. I enjoy helping women navigate pregnancy and postpartum, relationship issues, health issues and more. I have experience in hospital crisis and inpatient settings, schools, and the outpatient setting. My background in child development gives me a unique perspective when working with adolescents and their families. I offer a judgement-free space to allow clients to feel comfortable expressing themselves, and value being direct, open and honest.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 52 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 52 ratings

Often 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.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 51 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 51 ratings
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Spirituality
+10
Hi everyone! Are you someone who is open to growth, change, and you want healing to take place? I like to work with clients who have a desire to grow spiritually, emotionally, and mentally and who recognize this doesn't happen overnight. We are each a work in progress! I am a clinician who has been practicing for over 20 years. I enjoy working with various populations and ages but primarily focus on providing counseling services for the adult population. I feel God has led me to be a counselor, and I love watching others grow and heal in their life journeys. I work to help clients build resilience, regain confidence, and find peace in their personal and relational lives. Through a supportive, personalized approach, I work to help clients heal from their past hurts and begin to look forward to the future with a hopeful outlook.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 4.8 stars out of 55 ratings
Rated 4.8 stars out of 55 ratings
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.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 565 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 565 ratings
Intelligent
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
LGBTQ
Military/Veterans
+10
I'm a licensed clinical social worker who has practiced for over fifteen years, working with diverse populations with various issues. I have always seen it as an honor and privilege that you have chosen me to be on this journey of self-discovery and self-mastery of whatever challenges you face. I believe you are not a "billing code" but an individual who dares to seek help to improve the quality of your life
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 52 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 52 ratings
Warm
Intelligent
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Sexual Abuse
Trauma and PTSD
+5
Hello, I'm Dr. Meagan Jones. Life can be so challenging at times, and I am here to help you navigate those challenging times, learn what you will, and help you grow. I have been doing counseling for over 17 years now, I am a counseling supervisor, and I am also a professor in a mental health counseling master's program. I specialize in trauma, sexual trauma, gender and sexuality counseling, and also have a lot of experience with depression and anxiety. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Sex Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Creative Techniques. Each of these methods have been backed by research and proven to offer deep healing from trauma on a neurological, psychological, and emotional level. I am kink friendly, lifestyle and polyamory friendly, and an LGBTQIA ally. All are welcome here. I would love to help you learn and grow and become the best version of yourself, so if you are interested please schedule an introductory session or call and see if we are a good fit.
VirtualAvailable
Rated 5.0 stars out of 51 ratings
Rated 5.0 stars out of 51 ratings
Humorous
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, and have been providing counseling to children, adolescents, adults, and families for 15 years in NC. I received my Master's in Community Counseling at Lenoir-Rhyne University. I enjoy helping individuals learn from their past while focusing on building a present and future that is fulfilling. Past clients have noted that I made them feel heard while still challenging them to grow. I believe counseling is a very active process and requires a team effort. I like for us to set goals, so we know where we are going and when we get there.
VirtualAvailable
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 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.