EAP:United Healthcare Optum Therapists in New Jersey
Utilizing mental health support through UnitedHealthcare/Optum’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can provide you with convenient and affordable access to care. With 222 verified therapists in New Jersey who accept UnitedHealthcare/Optum EAP, you have options across therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and supportive counseling to help address work-related stress, personal challenges, or life transitions. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is currently open to new clients and has availability in the coming weeks, ensuring timely access to quality, EAP-covered care tailored to your needs.
Availability updated: 7/5/2025
Sharon Green
(she/her)
LPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Sharon Green, and I have worked in behavioral health for over 15 years. I have worked with diverse populations in multiple settings and served children, adolescents, young adults and older adults. Therapeutic services are delivered professionally and based on ethical principles. Services are tailored to the individual with implementation of multiple treatment modalities that include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, solution-based therapy, and grief therapy. Rapport and trust are core values.
Tracy Carter
(she/her)
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm Tracy Carter, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in New York. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Stony Brook University and have over 15 years of experience in the social work field. Throughout my career, I've worked with diverse populations, assisting individuals grappling with complex mental health and societal issues in leading more fulfilling lives.
Find therapists experienced in these areas
Kayla Hanley
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Kayla and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my Masters of Social Work from Fordham University and am currently working on my Doctorate of Social Work from Rutgers University with a focus on first responder trauma. I have worked in the field for over ten years and have experience working with individuals across the lifespan. My specialty is trauma-focused therapy, which helps to resolve prior and current experiences. I also enjoy working with adults feeling depressed and anxious.
Hieka Wiese
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I am committed to empowering individuals and couples to overcome life's obstacles. I specialize in offering compassionate therapy and assistance for issues such as substance use, anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflicts, and various life challenges with individuals and couples. My passion lies in creating a safe and supportive environment where my clients can embark on their journey towards healing and personal growth.
Sarah Riley
(she/her)
Frequently rebooked
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hey! I am a licensed therapist (LCSW) in New Jersey. I have been providing individual therapy for 6 years and working with adolescents and young adults for over 15 years. Before working in outpatient, I was a therapist at high school, providing group and individual therapy to adolescents. I help teens and young adults navigate difficult periods of transition in their life and relationships.
Linda Pendergrass
Frequently rebooked
LPC
21 years of experience
Virtual
I provide more than talk therapy & integrate a clinical approach grounded in research on neuroscience and psychology. I have 21-plus years of post-licensure experience and a demonstrated history of providing comprehensive clinical expertise in addition to supervising and training other therapists as a clinical supervisor. My educational and career development opportunities were significantly enriched through clinical supervision with a psychiatrist, which provided invaluable insights into diagnostic frameworks, and effective treatment interventions. Additionally, my work alongside multidisciplinary clinical treatment teams at various psychiatric hospitals has enhanced my understanding of holistic mental health care, and deepened my skills in managing complex cases, contributing to patient assessments, and coordinating effective interventions across diverse treatment settings.
Arlene Joseph-Younger
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Arlene, a licensed clinical social worker in the state of NJ and I have been practicing for almost a decade. I am dedicated to helping individuals untangle their thoughts, strengthen their emotional resilience, and create meaningful change. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, or just feeling stuck, I’m here to offer a grounded space where healing and growth can happen, without judgment, and at your pace.
Michelle Devlugt
(she/her)
LPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
EMDRIA-Approved EMDR Therapist. FL/NJ/VA. I also use traditional talk therapy with my clients. My therapeutic approach is based on the individual's specific needs. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a form of therapy that enables you to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. I work with adult clients with individual therapy.
Deanna McPherson
(she/her)
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hello there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in New Jersey although I am also an LCSW for the state of Missouri. I received my Masters in Social Work from Washington University in St Louis, MO and have been practicing for 7 years. I enjoy helping people in general and after years of working in public health began working in social work. I work with clients struggling with a variety of mental health challenges to become the best versions of themselves despite what has happened to them or what may be occurring to them presently.
Dawn Macri
Frequently rebooked
LPC
29 years of experience
Virtual
I am so glad you reached out for help! I am passionate about helping people navigate life's difficulties with compassion and empathy. Oftentimes, it is our difficulties that are the catalyst for big change. I bring over 29 years of counseling experience in a variety of settings (Residential treatment, Intensive outpatient, EAP and private practice) but most enjoy connecting in individual sessions. I look forward to working with you and assisting you with living your best life.
Elise Haddassah Nerenberg
LCSW
36 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Elise Nerenberg. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Jersey and Florida. I earned a Bachelor's degree of Social Work from Penn State and a Master's degree from Fordham Graduate School of Social Service. For over 19 years, I have been working in private practice with individuals, couples and families that deal with anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
Sondra J Dublinsky
(she/her)
LCSW
35 years of experience
Virtual
Sondra J. Dublinsky, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP has a Master’s degree in Student Personnel Services (School Guidance Counseling) from Glassboro State College ( currently Rowan University) and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Rutgers University. Sondra has been an influential leader in the Mental Health/Substance Abuse field for the past 35 years, serving as a teacher, bilingual (Spanish/English) therapist, Substance Abuse Assessment specialist, Professional Trainer, Supervisor and Executive Director. Sondra has experience working with children, adolescents and adults utilizing the following treatment modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Brief Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Gestalt therapy and Family-Based Therapy in an individual, group and family therapy setting. Sondra also has experience providing counseling in an Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, and Partial Care setting with DCP &P, Drug Court and IDRC referred clients. Over the years, she has participated in training and implementing evidenced based practices to help to empower clients/counselors to move clients forward in recovery. Sondra has dedicated her life’s work to making programs better for the community, the families and the clients that use them and places high value on bringing about sustainable change.
Elizabeth Urciuoli
Frequently rebooked
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
You are not alone! Thank you for trusting me with your care. I am committed to providing you with direction and guidance to support, empower and help you navigate through the challenges life presents. I focus on meeting you where you're at and fostering resilience and personal growth. Together, we can do this! Let’s journey together as we unlock the blocks that are inhibiting you from moving forward and living your best life as your authentic self. I use an integrative holistic approach drawing from a range of theoretical knowledge and evidenced based techniques. I work with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, women issues, divorce, life transitions and grief/loss to name a few.
Bonnie Grossman
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Bonnie! I'm a Licensed professional counselor in Arizona and New Jerey. I received a master's degree in Professional counseling ,and spent over ten years working with dual diagnosis clients. I specialize in working with adults dealing with trauma, substance use disorders, relationship issues, personality disorders, low self-esteem, anxiety and depression. My approach is flexible and tailored to your unique needs, blending Post-Induction Therapy, CBT, DBT, and a compassionate, person-centered approach.
Susan Bergen
(she/her)
LCSW
28 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has dedicated my professional life to the advancement of the human species. What do I mean by the advancement of the human species? Well, no one ever taught us how to be mindful of thought patterns; to be aware of our own scars and biases, no one gave us an instruction book when it comes to dealing with our emotional life and the emotional lives of others. Scary, those big feelings can be. Unless, you have a plan. That is where therapy comes in. We work together to develop plans to assure you accomplish the goals you set for yourself.
Rosas Place
(she/her)
LCSW
21 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in New Jersey and South Carolina. I ascertained my MSW from Rutgers the State University of New Jersey. I have been in Private Practice for over twenty years working with children, adolescents and adults using Eclectic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy treatments. Specializing in various kinds of trauma and depression . I have worked in the pubic school system as a Social Studies Teacher and a member of the Child Study Team. In addition, I worked in several hospitals in the emergency room as a psychiatric social worker and several Correctional facilities in New York and New Jersey.
Mary Pajic
(she/her)
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in New Jersey. I received my Masters from Rutgers University in 2007. I have been a clinical therapist for over a decade.
I am also a Certified School Social Worker and can offer educational support and planning, as well as child behavior modification techniques. My focus in recent years has been working with adults, couples, and families in a clinical setting.
Donna Fontana
(she/her)
LCSW
1 year of experience
Virtual
Hello, I’m Donna, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to supporting individuals through life’s challenges. With a background in special education for over two decades I have experience working with diverse populations. I bring a compassionate and understanding approach to therapy. I specialize in helping adults navigate mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, trauma, and substance use disorders.
In our work together, I use evidence-based approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and dialectical behavior therapy, tailored to your unique needs and goals. My focus is on creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and empowered to explore your strengths, overcome obstacles, and achieve meaningful growth. I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing, resilience, and a more fulfilling life.
Ericca Keith
(she/her)
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in New Jersey. I received my Masters from the University of Connecticut and have been practicing for 5 years. I stive to help teens and adults struggling with life stressors, anxiety, and/or depression to learn coping skills and aid in shifting their perspectives so that they can go from surviving to thriving.
Jodi Houlon
(she/her)
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
My ideal client is one who wants to change but needs guidance on how to do so. I am a warm, engaging, person who will support you through your challenges and celebrate your success. I enjoy helping clients learn new skills and change unhealthy patterns into positive personal transformation. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship as a catalyst for change.
Aly Giannantonio
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
I hope to provide you with a safe environment that will light your path with some clarity to make decisions needed to enhance your functioning and better your life.
I consider myself culturally competent, empathic and non judgemental.
I've never seen my role as one to provide the answers but instead I see myself as a facilitator to assist you in earning insight and ultimately gain control in changing that significant area in your life that you are seeking a change in.
Kam Mehrotra
(she/her)
LPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in New Jersey. I received my Master's from Montclair State University and additional courses from other colleges. I have been practicing for 8 years and have several years prior experience. I help adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, struggling with career stress and burnout. The client have felt improvement from my psychotherapy.
Cynthia P Alston-Kelly
LPC
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC based in North Carolina. I received my Masters from Fairleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey and have been practicing for 7 years serving adolescents, adults, and families. I help individuals to gain the tools needed to reduce life stressors and achieve their full potential by utilizing coping stragies gained in therapy.
Dr. Manny Kyei
(he/him)
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Jersey and Ohio. I received my Doctor of Social Work degree from Rutgers University, and I have been practicing therapy for eight years. My clinical experience has been working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, self-esteem issues, acculturation, bicultural issues, and relationship challenges. I look forward to creating a collaborative relationship with my clients.
Greg Caiafa
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
I know anxiety and depression. I know how it feels to fall down over and over and believe like you're destined to fall again. I also know firsthand how changing our thinking can help us to overcome even the most daunting challenges. I've helped countless people make significant progress in every aspect of their lives. I utilize established modalities like CBT, ACT and Motivational Interviewing, but I also know the value of listening.
Frequently asked questions
Why filter by New Jersey rather than a city
like Newark?
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 Jersey from Jersey City to Paterson! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in New Jersey.
Will my therapist take EAP:UnitedHealthcare/Optum?
Yes! If you use EAP:UnitedHealthcare/Optum you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have EAP:UnitedHealthcare/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.
What are the "Clients say I'm" badges?
Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.
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.
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.