Optum Therapists in New York

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 215 verified therapists in New York 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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New York

Availability updated: 12/26/2025

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+4
I am a licensed clinical social worker, who works primarily with women and teens navigating anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and trauma. My goal is to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space where you can truly feel seen and heard. I currently offer individual therapy via telehealth, focusing on helping clients better understand themselves, build confidence, and reconnect with their sense of self.
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Open-minded

Specialties

Couples Counseling
Physical Health Condition
Trauma and PTSD
+8
I am James Cherry, a trauma-certified, DBT-certified therapist and clinical supervisor specializing in complex trauma, personality disorders, and relational healing. With a background as a high school educator, I bring a deep passion for learning, psychoeducation, and accessible care into therapy. My practice is neurodivergent-affirming, LGBTQIA+ inclusive, and rooted in evidence-based care that fosters resilience, clarity, connection, and lifelong growth.
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Empowering
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Depression
+11
I believe in a client driven therapy session, meaning I meet you at your need. You dictate how we spend our time though I will help to guide you if you need it. I like to think I'm direct but I will support you in achieving your goals and process whichever situations are concerning you.
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Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+10
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with specialized psychoanalytic training at the William Alanson White Institute in NYC. I work with clients to get what they want out of life. I hope to connect with you through active listening to provide a secure and nurturing space to assist you in your self-discovery and healing. My therapeutic approach is rooted in compassion and empathy with the aim of helping you navigate life's challenges. Using a psychodynamic approach, we will work to uncover behavioral patterns which are impacting your life now. This process helps you gain critical insight to confront barriers that are preventing you from achieving your full potential.
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Solution oriented
Challenging
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Chronic Illness
Depression
+9
Hello! I’m Michelina, though you can call me Michelle. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 12 years of experience, based in Pennsylvania. I hold a Master’s degree from Fordham University, and my focus is on helping adults navigate the challenges of anxiety and depression. Together, we work as a team to manage symptoms and guide you toward becoming the best version of yourself.
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Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Mood Disorders
+10
Hello, I am a License Mental Health Counselor (LMHC, NCC), based in New York. I earned my Masters degree at CUNY Queens College. I have been practicing for 6 years assisting children, teens and adult navigating daily life stressors for a more functional day. I am authentic, with a genuine approach in building a therapeutic relationship with clients for a successful and positive therapeutic experience.
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Solution oriented
Intelligent
Open-minded

Specialties

Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Parenting
Hello, I’m glad you’re here. I am a therapist and social worker with advanced training and years of experience supporting individuals, families, and communities. My academic journey includes both a Master of Social Work and a Doctorate of Social Work, reflecting my commitment to understanding people and creating spaces where healing and growth are possible. Life can bring stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, or unexpected transitions, and it is not always easy to carry those experiences alone. My role is to walk alongside you, offering compassion, encouragement, and practical tools to help you find balance and strength. I especially enjoy working with individuals who may be juggling many responsibilities—at home, at work, or in their communities—yet still want to prioritize their own well-being. Together, we will uncover your strengths, explore new perspectives, and create meaningful strategies for growth and healing. My approach is collaborative and supportive, grounded in the belief that every story matters and that positive change is always possible.
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Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+5
Award winning Therapist — Therapist of the Year by St. Vincent Hospital - an acknowledgement demonstrating my commitment to the quality care I provide. I offer therapy for burnout, anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma. I also work with individuals who simply want personal growth, clarity, and more control over their lives. As someone who’s sat on the other side of the therapy room, I bring not only clinical training, but real, lived experience. I know how hard it can be to ask for help, find good help, and how important it is to feel truly heard. You are the expert on your life. I am here for you — to be your guide and support.
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Intelligent
Challenging

Specialties

Sex Addiction
Sexual Abuse
Trauma and PTSD
+5
Welcome, I’m Gil. I specialize in working with high-distress professionals, veterans living with PTSD, survivors of childhood sexual trauma, and individuals facing sexual addiction. If you are feeling overwhelmed, weighed down by trauma, or struggling to break free from harmful patterns, I offer a safe and supportive space to help you heal. With over 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist, my clients have reported meaningful improvements in managing stress and symptoms, reducing maladaptive behaviors, and experiencing greater resilience, optimism, and overall quality of life. My approach is compassionate, eclectic, and tailored to your unique needs, designed to help you move forward with confidence and strength. You will likely realize early on that this is not your typical talk therapy. It is counseling that challenges you, empowers you, and inspires you to take the necessary steps toward creating significant and lasting changes you can truly see and feel. I am committed to earning your trust and walking beside you as we move forward on your journey together.
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Empowering
Direct
Solution oriented

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Licenses & Training: I hold a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. I hold a Master of Science degree in Health Education and Promotion from Walden University. I am currently licensed in the state of New York (LMHC) Presently, I work as a Program Director for residential treatment services for clients impacted by substance and mental health challenges. Along with my formal education, I have 23 years' experience working within various modalities, providing me with skills to utilize techniques and interventions from Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Motivational Enhancement Therapy, Expressive Therapy, Solution Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing., etc. Frequently addressed issues in treatment may include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, abuse, life transition problems, general stressors, self-esteem issues, dysfunctional patterns of behavior, etc. I am also a member of the American Counseling Association.
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Frequently rebooked

Humorous
Open-minded

Specialties

ADHD
Anger Management
Self Esteem
+8
My name is Eric Yip and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York City. I received my Masters from Alliance University. Becoming a therapist is a childhood dream come true for me and with over fifteen years of experience in the mental health field, I have worked in various areas, ranging from depression and personality disorders to child development and end-of-life issues.
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Frequently rebooked

Warm
Intelligent
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+5
I am deeply committed to offering a supportive environment where clients can explore the full range of their experiences and move toward greater authenticity, fulfillment, and meaningful connection. I would be honored to walk alongside you (or your child) on that journey. I tend to view the majority of behaviors and patterns that cause distress as creative ways we have learned to cope with life experiences, cultural and familial legacies, relationships, and social influences. My goal is to join with you and collaborate together to create a space of empathy, curiosity, and safety that is adaptive to your unique needs, helps you uncover the wisdom behind your distress, and encourages you in making the changes you seek.
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Intelligent
Empowering

Specialties

Career Counseling
LGBTQ
Self Esteem
+9
At my core, I am a therapist who believes in the transformative power of depth, empathy, humor, and the arts. I’ve spent my career helping people understand themselves more fully — not only by reducing symptoms, but by uncovering the narratives, emotions, and self-limiting beliefs that have kept them small or stuck. I work from a humanistic and psychoanalytic foundation, integrating mindfulness, ACT, and solution-focused strategies to help clients access resilience, self-compassion, and real change. I bring a warm, grounded, and creative presence into the room. My background as an artist and writer shapes my work: I’m attentive to symbolism, story, imagination, and the deeper layers of a person’s emotional life. Humor is also one of my most natural tools, not to avoid pain, but to help clients feel safe, open, and connected as they explore difficult experiences. Across corporate mental health, trauma work, refugee support, and private practice, I’ve seen how people flourish when they’re permitted to be fully themselves. I help clients build self-esteem through honesty, curiosity, and acceptance; loosen rigid patterns; and move beyond the internalized messages or roles that no longer serve them.
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Frequently rebooked

Empowering
Solution oriented
Direct

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
+10
Hello there! I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with thirteen years of experience. I completed my Master's degree at Stony Brook University on Long Island, New York. Recently, I relocated to North Carolina, and I am honored to help adults of all ages who are facing various challenges with anxiety, depression, addiction, and individuals and couples who are struggling in their relationships.
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Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Domestic Violence
I am a psychotherapist who has been in the field for over 20 years. I thrive on helping my clients reduce their anxiety and increase their sense of worth. I love working with clients who are ready to commit to the healing journey. Therapy is a partnership and it is most affective when clients are open to putting in the work.
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Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
+10
Hello, I am a licensed clinical social worker in New York state working with children, youth, and young adults for over 10 years. I am Black and originally from Ghana in West Africa. I am a wife and a mother of two young teenagers. I live in New York with my family. I have practiced clinical social work in various settings, including psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment facilities/centers, and an outpatient clinic. I am also an adjunct social work professor and enjoy teaching when I am not doing clinical work. My treatment approach and types of therapy used include acceptance and commitment (ACT), attachment-based, cognitive behavioral (CBT), compassion-focused, emotionally focused, exposure and response prevention, family systems, and trauma-focused therapies.
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Frequently rebooked

Specialties

Mood Disorders
Personality Disorders
Substance Misuse
+6
Michael holds a Bachelor's in Psychology and a Master's in Applied Counseling from Lynn University, specializing in mental health and addiction. He’s driven by the transformative “breakthrough moments” when clients gain new clarity—whether through a fresh insight, a life-changing decision, or witnessing a loved one’s growth. "Every person's journey unfolds at their own pace," Michael reflects. "Being present for those transformative moments—when everything clicks into place—reminds me why I chose this path. If you've ever experienced that sudden clarity, you know exactly what I mean. It's what makes this work endlessly rewarding."
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Intelligent
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hey there, I'm Saila Akhtar. Do you find yourself overthinking and analyzing every little details of events that has happened to you? Do you feel like you are always on autopilot and unable to feel relax? Are you struggling to connect with people in your life? Do you have a hard time showing grace and self-compassion? I help my client manage their day to day stress, anxiety and depression. Together, we can identify what's not working and come up with a plan that can improve your quality of life. We'll use a overall wellness approach addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. My counseling style is interactive. I believe in building good rapport with my clients and providing a safe space to have open dialogues about their concerns. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, attachment theory, psychodynamic, and person-centered. Whether you're dealing with feelings of being overwhelms, relationship concerns, cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to support your growth. It takes courage to be aware of your needs and to seek out support to change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to partner with you and work towards the change you want. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the challenges that are holding you back. I look forward to work with you!
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Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Women's Issues
+6
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in NYS, VT, and FL, and a life coach with over 25 years of experience. I specialize in helping individuals reduce overwhelming anxiety, ease symptoms of depression, and navigate major life transitions. My mission is to guide you toward healthier coping skills, stronger relationships, and a clearer sense of direction in daily life.
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Intelligent
Open-minded
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+5
Hi, My name is Dr. Sister Marian Mikhail Doctorate of Min., L.C.P.C. Advanced, PhD Clinical Pastoral Counseling, M.Div., LMHC, LPC, M.A. Rel. Ed. I am a licensed therapist in New York and New Jersey with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
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Warm
Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Parenting
+6
Life brings a wide range of experiences—some joyful and inspiring, others deeply challenging. At times, these moments can leave us feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, or stuck. My goal is to offer you a safe and supportive space where you feel truly seen, heard, and understood. Building a strong, trusting relationship is at the heart of my work, as I believe that genuine connection lays the foundation for meaningful and lasting change. I draw on evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), relational therapy, mindfulness, and relaxation training. For children and adolescents, I also incorporate Theraplay. These approaches have been shown to support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, interpersonal challenges, low self-esteem, and behavioral or emotional changes. I hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, New York, and a master’s degree in psychology from the University of Manchester in England. I also have extensive experience as a therapist with diverse populations, as well as in the area of school counseling.
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Solution oriented
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+8
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, dual licensed in New York and Florida. I am also a certified New York MASTER CASAC and a Florida MCAP for substance abuse. I have been in the field since 2014 and I help those who struggle with substance use, anxiety, day to day life, returning from incarceration/military into the community, mood swings, and depression. I can help you reach your goals at you own pace through guidance and positive reinforcement. I look forward to watching you grow and succeed
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Authentic
Direct
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
Welcome! Thank you for considering working together with me to reach your goals. I work with issues related to depression, anxiety, goals, interpersonal relationships, self-esteem, boundaries, stress, anger, conflict, and philosophical/spiritual issues. I see clients of all orientations and cultural/ethnic backrounds. I am respectful of all religious traditions as well as secular and philosophical traditions. I work with individuals, couples, families and children/teens. My aproach to therapy is: Direct Respectful Non-judgmental Solution-focused Empowering Positive In the short term you should feel better going out than you did coming in. Over the long term, you should feel more empowered, clearer, more self-supporting, more compassionate with yourself and more skilled with others. I look forward to working together with you! Sincerely, Miriam Mendelson, LMHC, PhD (Dr. Mimi)
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Frequently rebooked

Solution oriented
Open-minded
Direct

Specialties

Life Transitions
Military/Veterans
Trauma and PTSD
Seeking strength, understanding, and a path forward? I'm not your typical therapist. I've walked the walk that you have, not just once, but twice. As a former Marine and law enforcement officer, I know firsthand the pressures, traumas, and unique challenges faced by those in service and beyond. Now, I leverage my experience and clinical expertise to guide individuals grappling with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and the invisible wounds of trauma.
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Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Crisis Intervention
Depression
+10
I am an LCSW, Columbia university graduate. I discovered the field of social through my sister's chronic illness as a child. The hospital social worker who worked with my sister and family opened my eyes to the compassion that is needed in caring for and connecting to families undergoing unanticipated difficulties. From a young age, I knew I wanted to help others with processing difficult life experiences.
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Frequently asked questions

Why filter by New York rather than a city like New York City?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in the state. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across New York from Buffalo to Rochester! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in New York.

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.