Optum Therapists in North Carolina

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 348 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: 9/3/2026

Authentic
Solution oriented
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+8
Hi, I’m Kendrick Burden, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about helping people reconnect with their truest selves. I work with individuals who are navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and high-pressure transitions, especially when life feels heavy or unclear. Whether you're processing loss, healing from old wounds, or realigning with who you were created to be, therapy is a space to pause, reflect, and move forward with intention. My approach blends evidence-based tools such as EMDR, CBT, and ACT with compassionate, faith-based support when desired. Together, we’ll identify what’s been holding you back and chart a new path grounded in your values and strengths. My hope is to help you feel more anchored, more empowered, and more at peace with the life you’re creating.
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Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+7
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina with 10 years of counseling experience. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and have spent many years working in community behavioral health. My training and my work have shaped me into a clinician that understands a person's environment is as important as their mindset. You will find me to be supportive and an advocate for my clients complete health.
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Solution oriented
Authentic
Warm
Specialties
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Self Esteem
+10
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and completed my Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Mercer University in Atlanta. Additionally, I received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. With my extensive training and experience, I am committed to assisting couples, families, and individuals who may be grappling with a range of challenges and obstacles. In my practice, I aim to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients can freely express themselves and explore their emotions.
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Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
+9
Hi, I'm William. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) trained to help people find solutions to their problems and concerns. I received my Masters in Social Work from East Carolina University and I have experience working with all ages. Do you feel the pressure of career, family, children and a world full of tremendous change? I am here to help you maneuver what can seem like a complex maze. Each of us has the power to grow and face challenges and sometimes we just need someone to listen and help us find the right direction. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I love to work with all types of people to help them live and achieve their best life. Seeking and receiving therapy can be scary for some people. But it doesn't have to be scary. Therapy should be your time to enter a place where you will feel safe and respected to share your deepest thoughts and desires. Together we will work to help you achieve your goals.
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Authentic
Warm
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Family Conflict
+10
Do you find yourself tired of having other people's worldviews and judgments imposed upon you? Do you feel that no matter how hard you try, nothing you do is ever enough? It is my goal to provide a safe space where clients can truly be themselves without fear of judgment. As a result, I do not believe in a one size fits all approach to therapy. I work to tailor each session to fit the needs of the person/persons in front of me. I work with couples and families to help them find peace and stability in their relationships. I also have extensive experience working with children and teenagers, having worked with them in various settings and roles. These experiences enable me to consider every aspect of their life, and how they affect the child and teen's well being and mental health. I am honored to work with my clients, and do not take the responsibility lightly. During our sessions I will offer compassion, hope and ways to deal with the issues you are facing.
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Authentic
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Have you tried everything to manage anxiety that affects your day-to-day life? Do you feel overwhelmed by just getting through the day? Do you wonder if you will ever feel better? Many people are finding themselves feeling overwhelmed now more than ever. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. I have been a Mental Health Professional for over 20 years. I have been practicing as a LCMHC for 18 years.
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Authentic
Empowering
Warm
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”
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Authentic
Empowering
Open-minded
Specialties
ADHD
Couples Counseling
Family Conflict
+10
I believe that the stories we tell ourselves shape everything about how we navigate the world. So often, trauma, neurodivergence, or societal expectations convince us that we are to blame for how we react or feel. My heart in this practice is to create a welcoming and gentle space where we can have real, honest conversations about who you are, unspooling those old stories so you can reclaim a narrative and life that actually feels true to you. My view of the world and my approach to therapy are deeply shaped by my own life experiences. I grew up in a family of clam diggers, was raised by a disabled mother who struggled with mental illness, and was later adopted at age 20 by my father, a self-identified gay hippie and social worker. Today, I am a neurodivergent father of four, and my partner is legally blind. I share these aspects because they have all taught me one thing: the world is unique, you are unique, and I love creating space for a uniquely broad, lived understanding of human diversity. Having walked through so many different paths, I know firsthand that the world is never black and white. It is filled with nuance, gray areas, and profound beauty.
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Often rebooked

Warm
Open-minded
Direct
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
My name is Alyssa Haley and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, & families. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, attention, neurodivergence, trauma, mood dysregulation, communication, social skills and life transition issues. I have an eclectic approach that combines cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, family systems, attachment, object relational, acceptance and commitment therapy, and trauma informed approaches. I will shape our treatment goals to meet your unique specific needs. I look forward to learning more about your treatment goals. Therapy is a partnership and is hard work, but with consistency and perseverance real change can be made.
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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.
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Empowering
Authentic
Intelligent
Specialties
ADHD
Coping Skills
Trauma and PTSD
+10
My name is Aesha Page. I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) in South Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina. I am a graduate of Nova Southeastern University and I have been practicing for 10 years. I have extensive training and experience working with adolescents and adults, including those who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, suicidality, other mental health diagnoses, and co-occurring disorders. My therapeutic approach aims to identify and address the underlying causes of coping difficulties and mental health concerns.
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Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Grief
+4
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina and have been practicing for over 10 years. I received my Master's Degree from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I enjoy helping individuals find balance and contentment in their lives. I enjoy helping individual who have experienced trauma work through difficult emotions, feelings and beliefs in order to live more balanced and meaningful lives.
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Empowering
Authentic
Warm
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.
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Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in both North Carolina and Arizona, and holding a Doctorate in Traumatology, I am dedicated to supporting individuals as they navigate the challenges of trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and more. My work is guided by the belief that healing is possible and that no one should have to walk this path alone. I provide a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their experiences, rediscover their strengths, and create meaningful change. I utilize a variety of evidence-based approaches, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and other evidence-based treatments. By tailoring therapy to meet each client’s unique needs, I help individuals gain clarity, develop coping skills, and move toward a life that feels empowered and authentic. Clients often describe me as warm, approachable, and grounded. I bring patience, empathy, and curiosity into my sessions, while also providing gentle challenges that encourage growth and deeper self-awareness. I value authenticity and strive to create a collaborative therapeutic relationship built on trust, respect, and compassion. Beyond my clinical expertise, I am passionate about walking alongside clients in ways that honor their stories and identities. I deeply admire the resilience of those I work with and consider it a privilege to witness their courage and progress. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready for change, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can work toward healing, resilience, and connection. My goal is to not only help reduce distress but also to empower you to create a fulfilling life aligned with your values.
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Authentic
Solution oriented
Direct
Specialties
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Grief
+7
Hello-My name is Richard (Rick) Lally. I graduated with a master's degree in clinical psychology from Connecticut College and have been working in behavioral health for 25 years. I also have been a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina for the past 20 years. I have been able to help individuals from diverse backgrounds with a wide array of issues; depression, grief/loss, stress, anger, relationship distress to name a few. Regardless of whether your need for seeking counseling is one of these matters or something else, please reach out to me and give me the chance to see if I can offer some relief. I welcome the opportunity to meet you.
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Warm
Solution oriented
Open-minded
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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Humorous
Empowering
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
School Issues
+10
Hi, I'm Dr. Shamanda Burston, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist with more than 15 years of experience helping people navigate life's challenges. I work with teens (13+), adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, stress, burnout, life transitions, career concerns, relationship challenges, and financial stress. Life can feel overwhelming when you're trying to meet expectations at school, work, or home while carrying the weight of anxiety, self-doubt, or constant pressure to "hold it all together." Whether you're a teenager navigating school and identity, a college student adjusting to adulthood, or a professional feeling burned out by work and life's responsibilities, therapy can provide a space to slow down, gain perspective, and develop practical strategies for lasting change. My approach is warm, collaborative, and goal-oriented. I strive to create an environment where clients feel comfortable being honest about what they're experiencing while also leaving sessions with tools they can begin applying in everyday life.
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Authentic
Warm
Intelligent
Specialties
ADHD
Mood Disorders
Perinatal Mental Health
+8
Welcome! I’m April, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. Congratulations on taking the first step towards reaching your goals. Don’t discount the decision you’ve made to search for help, because many people never do so. I see counseling as a partnership between the therapist and the client; I have the mental health expertise while you’re the expert of you! For this reason I'll spend our earliest contacts getting to know you better. Choosing a therapist is a very personal decision and therefore, I want to give you information so you can choose for yourself if you’d like to work with me. I would describe my counseling style as warm, but professional. I love to use strength-based approaches as much as possible, also incorporating your values into our work. I find myself using an integrative approach, incorporating different theoretical frameworks and techniques that I will tailor to fit your needs. Two approaches I use most often are Person-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Person-Centered counseling uses a lot of reflection to help you process your thoughts and feelings, which is often the first step towards solving your problems. CBT helps us examine your thought patterns and whether they are helpful or harmful. If a particular thought is harmful that could trigger issues like a depressed mood, for example. We’ll work together to replace the harmful thoughts with more helpful ones. There are many other approaches to potentially integrate into our sessions, and I’d be happy to explain anything I believe may benefit you. I have recently earned a certification in perinatal mental health (PMH-C) through Postpartum Support International. You can learn more at https://postpartum.net/
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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.
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Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
• My name is Brooke, I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina (#11537). • I received my Master’s degree at Walden University. • I have been practicing therapeutic services for the last 13 years in an out-patient-therapy session in an office setting as well as telehealth as well as enhanced services in Medicaid on a state & county level. I have experience with all ages and client developmental and life stages. I primary assist with issues of depression, anxiety, trauma, life-transitions, family dynamic transitions, grief, complex illness, and end-of-life issues.
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Authentic
Solution oriented
Direct
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Hi there! I am Robert Brown, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of North Carolina. I have been practicing for 30 years and have a focus on adults who have experienced depressed mood, anxiety, grief, or trauma. It's always been a privilege for me to serve folks who are ready to create a lasting and meaningful change through our journey together.
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Authentic
Intelligent
Empowering
Specialties
Life Transitions
Career Counseling
Child or Adolescent
+6
Hi there! My name is Erin Dey and I am a licensed clinical social worker located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. I have a masters’ degree from Columbia University, and I specialize in helping clients successfully navigate challenging life transitions. I work with individuals both in person as well as online. My approach to counseling is solutions-focused, strengths-based, and relational.
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Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+5
Hi there, I’m Melissa. If life feels heavy right now, you’re in the right place. When you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just tired of carrying everything by yourself, it can be tough to know where to start. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, substance use, and other challenges who are looking for meaningful, sustainable change and a greater sense of balance in their lives. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my style is collaborative, compassionate, and centered on practical tools you can actually use. I take a whole‑person approach to therapy, which means we may explore how different parts of your life—physical, emotional, social, environmental, and spiritual—are shaping your overall well‑being. My goal is to create a space where you can show up honestly and without judgment as we explore the patterns that may be keeping you stuck and build healthier ways of coping and relating to your thoughts and emotions. You don’t have to navigate all of this on your own. If you’re ready for support and a space to feel heard, I’m here to help you take the next step.
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Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+6
Welcome! My name is Tammy and I am dedicated to supporting women through some of life’s most transformative and sometimes overwhelming seasons. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor for over 20 years and have worked in several different settings including psychiatric care (access clinician and case manager), middle school counseling, high school counselor and private practice. I understand how complex and layered our experiences can be. I strive to create a safe, supportive environment where you can speak freely, process your emotions and feel seen and heard without judgment. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed or uncertain about what comes next, know you don’t have to go through it alone. Let’s start a conversation and take the first step together.
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Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Chronic Illness
Coping Skills
Physical Health Condition
+4
Hello, meet Dr. Dawn D. Burton, a psychotherapist with psychoeducation and biopsychosocial-spiritual clinical counseling expertise to promote acceptance and quality of life for older adults, children, and families across the lifespan. As a licensed clinical social worker, she employs strategies that promote life skills and coping amid crisis and life disturbances with a specialization in chronic conditions, terminal disease, and end-of-life decision making. With over 25 years of social work expertise in healthcare and nonprofit management, Burton is credited for her leadership in community organizing chronic disease awareness, health fairs, and nonprofit organizational programming to bridge service gaps affecting persons impacted by chronic disease. Burton holds a bachelor's degree in public relations communications from Saint Augustine's College, a master's degree in social work from Virginia Commonwealth University, and with a doctorate in Organizational Leadership with emphasis in Healthcare Administration from Grand Canyon University, Burton is an adjunct professor for their School of Social Work Masters' program. Outside of her formal work, Burton and her husband enjoy philanthropy, ministry outreach efforts, camping and fishing.
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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.