Blue Cross Blue Shield Therapists in Ohio

Finding therapists who take Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), whether through online therapy or in-person near you, can make getting mental health care more accessible and cost-effective. With 35 verified therapists in Ohio who accept BCBS, you can filter by therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy to address issues like anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other concerns. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist who takes Blue Cross Blue Shield listed below is currently welcoming new clients and has availability within the next 30 days, providing you with timely, quality support that fits within your BCBS coverage.

Availability updated: 7/1/2025

Jamie Matthews

(she/her)

Jamie Matthews, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
18 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Jamie Matthews and I have been working as a counselor since 2007, and really enjoy helping people reach their treatment goals. I believe that counseling is about change, and believe people can change any behavior not working in their life. I started my career working in community mental health where I worked with individuals with severe and persistent mental illness, and gained a great deal of experience helping individuals manage symptoms of hallucinations, delusions, severe depression symptoms, and severe anxiety symptoms. From 2007-2015 I did mainly group counseling sessions, and some individual counseling sessions using evidence based practices. From 2015-2021, I have worked as an Outpatient Therapist where I have worked with children, adults, and families in a community mental health setting. Since 2021, I have worked in my own private practice, where I have continued working with clients using mainly telehealth services. I have really enjoyed the ability to reach clients throughout Ohio and Florida. I continue to use CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and other techniques to assist my clients in reaching their therapeutic goals.

Doug Hickey

(he/him)

Doug Hickey, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am Doug Hickey. I am passionate about providing a supportive, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment to hold space for clients so they can navigate life challenges. I incorporate mindfulness-based, holistic therapy and am passionate about functional, root-cause approaches. Some areas of interest include depression, anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem issues, life purpose, and relationship and marital issues.I believe that therapy is an investment in oneself, and I love seeing clients thrive and grow as they process existing struggles, heal past wounds, learn new skills, and develop their already existing strengths.

Mario Costello

Mario Costello, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
10 years of experience
Virtual
I'm Mario, I have been a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC) in Ohio for over 10 years. I am blessed to have had the privilege to help individuals of many backgrounds work through various personal and professional issues. I take counseling very seriously and truly consider it a calling. From stress management and anxiety to depression and trauma; I am here to help.

Brittany Byers

Brittany Byers, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I'm Brittany Byers, LISW-S. I received by Masters in Social Work from Walden University and have been practicing since 2015. I've worked in community mental health and addiction services, but for the last 3 years, I've been doing telehealth therapy helping clients manage their mental health and addiction issues. Enough about me. Let's take a moment to acknowledge you've taken the first step towards bettering your mental health because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, trauma, and/or self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life.

Michael Kimball

Michael Kimball, LP - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
10 years of experience
Virtual
If you are looking at my profile, you are probably having some life difficulty. I was in your shoes years ago. Seeking therapy was the best decision I ever made. It helped me take control of my life. I help people discover themselves, empower them with tools and knowledge, and help them heal. I help high-functioning people live their best life, unburdened by trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, performance issues, and more. My aim is to help you have the tools, knowledge, and experience to go into the world prepared to attain your goals.

Kimberly Smith

(she/her)

Kimberly Smith, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Independent Social Worker based in Ohio. I received my master's degree from Walden University and my bachelor's degree from Mount Vernon Nazarene University. I have been working in the field of social work for 30+ years. I help youth and young adults struggling with a variety of different issues like self-esteem, anxiety, independent living, family issues, problem sexual behaviors, juvenile delinquency and non-suicidal self-harm. An interesting thing about me is that I have worked with youth who were living as Vampires, no judgement, just interesting!

Nawal Alhawsawi

Nawal Alhawsawi, IMFT - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
IMFT
20 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, life transitions, and relational healing. Clients often say I make them feel both safe and challenged. I bring warmth, clinical depth, and real-life experience to each session. My integrative approach blends neuroscience, mindfulness, faith, and cultural sensitivity to foster emotional resilience, identity clarity, and lasting transformation. Learn more at www.soundheart.org.

Beth Young

Beth Young, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hey there! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Ohio. I received my Masters from Ashland Theological Seminary and have practiced for 10 years. I help teenagers and women who are adjusting to various life issues and relationships become the best versions of themselves. In my spare time, I enjoy working out, running a photography business, and spending time with my family.

Kaitlyn Kortokrax

(she/her)

Kaitlyn Kortokrax, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Kaitlyn, and I’ve been working as a licensed mental health therapist for the past nine years in various different settings. I have experience supporting individuals across the lifespan, but I especially enjoy working with children, teens, young adults, and other Millenials like myself. I specialize in helping clients navigate challenges related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, life transitions, and family-related stress. I am passionate about creating an affirming, inclusive space for all clients, including those who identify as LGBTQ+ and individuals who are neurodiverse. My goal is to ensure each person feels seen, respected, and supported just as they are. My approach is warm, collaborative, and person-centered. I draw from evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, and play-based interventions, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs and developmental level of the client. I know that reaching out for help takes courage, and I feel honored to walk alongside my clients through difficult or uncertain times. Whether it’s learning to manage overwhelming emotions, strengthening relationships, or building self-understanding, I aim to help clients feel more confident, resilient, and empowered. My hope is not just to reduce symptoms, but to support real, lasting growth in everyday life.

Sheenah Scott

(she/her)

Sheenah Scott, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
28 years of experience
Virtual
I graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a Master of Social Work degree in 1992. I am dually and independently licensed in mental health (Licensed Independent Social Worker-Supervisor or LISW-S) and substance abuse (Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor - Clinical Supervisor or LICDC-CS). I started out working with children and families, foster care, and adoption at non-profit agencies, helping families to overcome obstacles to success. For the past 25 years, I have worked with men and women who are struggling with stress, depression, anxiety, anger, relationship issues, mental health issues, substance use issues, and other issues, to learn the skills and thought processes needed to become successful. I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Anger Management, Life Transitions, Stress Management, Women's Issues, and Ethnicity/Diversity Issues.

Fran Weil

Fran Weil, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
24 years of experience
Virtual
You are invited to create the life you desire and deserve! Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, feeling overwhelmed, and feeling powerless to coping with life? Please know these feelings are present to warn that your attention is needed. I am an LISW, Licensed Independent Social Worker, with over 15 years experience providing clinically sound, creative, and holistic therapy services. I will partner with you in a safe, accepting, and non-judgmental setting that promotes growth and change. Happiness is something we all talk about and want dearly. The road to happiness is through being authentic, setting boundaries with yourself and others, and taking care of you. Getting the help you need is a form of Self Care. Let me help you find happiness!

Valerie Rutherford

(she/her)

Valerie Rutherford, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Life is challenging for all of us at times. I’m glad you’re here, taking the steps necessary to care for yourself. I am Valerie Rutherford, a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW-S) in Ohio since 2006. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, navigating a life transition, or working through the effects of trauma, you don’t have to do it alone. You’ll find a safe, welcoming space in our work together where you can explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment. With a collaborative, client-centered approach, we’ll work side by side to explore the challenges you’re facing and move toward meaningful change.

Walter Williams

(he/him)

Walter Williams, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
12 years of experience
Virtual
I am Walter williams a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I received my Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling degree from Illinois Institute of Technology. I have over 20 years experience in rehabilitation psychology in a variety of settings. I have done crisis intervention in both inpatient and penal institutions. I have worked as a team leader for Assertive Community Treatment teams servicing chronically mentally ill people in the community. I have performed intake assessment, crisis intervention, suicide assessments, and brief grief counseling in multiple settings. I help adults struggling with major mental illness and or substance abuse to manage their thoughts and understand the dynamics of feelings thoughts and behaviors through evidence based practices likE CBT and Motivational Interviewing.

Billy Bruce

(he/him)

Billy Bruce, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! My name is Billy. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, stress, anger...or possibly all five? These issues are not uncommon and can be debilitating, especially when guilt or shame are added to the mix. But you can kick them all to the curb. All it takes is a willingness to change your perspectives. I've worked with thousands of clients (adults and children) who struggle with self-defeating beliefs that zap the joy out of life. And I've found that Hope and Purpose, along with healthy doses of Motivation and Creativity, crush inner demons. How do you find Hope and Purpose? It's not as complicated as you might think. We are made to help each other. We are made to communicate. We are made to have a positive impact. Sometimes, though, life attacks from all directions and leaves us feeling defeated. That's when we need help. I'm here to listen. I'm here to learn about your struggles and find ways to help you view them differently. And, who knows? I may even share some of my Blackstone Griddle secrets along the way. God Bless!

Ken Seeley

(he/him)

Ken Seeley, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
13 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I AM ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR BOTH IN PERSON (IF YOU LIVE NEAR AKRON) and virtually in OH. I have been counseling for 10 years. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Ordained Minister and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety and/or psychological trauma, I want to help you. I have experience in many areas. I have worked with children, adults, those with disabilities, substance use treatment and emergency/crisis services as well as with groups in the hospital setting helping people with psychological trauma. Currently, I work with adults. I also run a Christian nonprofit for those without insurance. (Ask about this if you don't have insurance.)

Peg Kubiak

Peg Kubiak, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I have worked in the mental health field for over 20 years and transitioned to private practice in February of 2020. Throughout my career, I worked closely with the Lucas County Juvenile Court and other community mental health agencies, assessing, diagnosing and treating a variety of emotional and behavioral issues. I have been privileged to have worked with adults, adolescents and children as they have navigated through various traumas and other life challenges. My therapeutic focus is based on assisting my clients by finding and maintaining a healthy Mind/Body/Spirit healing and balance. This involves using appropriate therapeutic interventions based on diagnosis to stabilize symptoms and use of coping strategies and self-care to maintain and thrive!

Heather Cooper

(she/her)

Heather Cooper, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
7 years of experience
Virtual
Heather is an experienced Master's level Clinical Mental Health Therapist (LPCC) providing individual therapy and has a passion for working in integrated health. It is her special interest to work with marginalized populations, including individuals within the LGBTQIA+ population. She has experience co-facilitating a LGBTQIA+ support group and DBT skills group. She has years of experience working in community mental health prior to private practice.

Linda Kay Ellerbrock

(she/her)

Linda Kay Ellerbrock, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am Linda Ellerbrock LSW, LPCC Do you feel swept up in the storms of life? Do you feel like you are stuck in a bad dream that will never end? Do you feel like you are haunted by the "Wicked Witches" or "Flying Monkeys" of life? Follow the Ellerbrock Road Counseling Services and I can help. Just as the All and Powerful Oz helped Dorothy get back home, the Scarecrow a brain, The Tin Man a heart and the Cowardly Lion find courage, I can help you do the same. I am here to help repair fragile homes, restore disordered thinking, mend broken hearts, and find the courage to keep moving on when times are tough. I can help you avoid the Wicked Witches and Flying Monkeys in your life by helping you find positive solutions to whatever life sends your way. I do not perform magic, but I have over 25 years of experience in helping people of all ages from Munchkins to Auntie Em's. I use many different approaches in my therapy but mostly try to make a connection and follow my client's lead. I use a blend of humor, creativity and life experiences to help my clients feel comfortable and not alone. Just like Dorothy and her friends were afraid to move forward despite the Wicked Witch, Flying Monkeys and The Powerful Oz's demands. I will help you get beyond the fears and uncomfortableness of therapy and move forward.

Brandy Finfrock

Brandy Finfrock, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
9 years of experience
Virtual
I am licensed in Ohio with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Jana Van Hooser

Jana Van Hooser, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
13 years of experience
Virtual
~NOT ACCEPTING COUPLES! Hi! My name is Jana! Thank you for reading my profile :) I want you to know a little about me so you can decide if you'd like to schedule with me. I am licensed in Ohio and I have been a Therapist for over 10 years. I have been doing teletherapy for quite awhile now and I much prefer it to in-office settings. I am a mother to 3 wild kiddos, I live in the country and I [try to] make friends with feral cats. I am very chatty, I enjoy getting to know the people that I am working with. I have a lot of experience in several areas: domestic violence, narcissism, autism, intellectual disabilities, adhd, depression, pregnancy loss, anxiety, parenting issues, life changes, bullying, etc. I like a natural conversation style in sessions so it is as comfortable as possible!

Amanda Burger

Amanda Burger, LP - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a licensed psychologist that has been practicing for 15 years. I received my doctoral degree from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan and have worked in a variety of health care settings before deciding to build a virtual practice. I am passionate about helping people improve their health and well-being through changing behavior and better regulating emotions. I use an active approach designed to help increase motivation and utilize strengths and resources already available. My career has been devoted to helping people manage chronic health conditions, improve sleep, and cope with chronic pain. Often part of this journey involves processing unresolved trauma and difficult emotions. It is my goal to form an individualized plan to help meet your needs and focus on your whole health!

Hao Chu, Psy.D.

(he/him)

Hao Chu, Psy.D., LP - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, my name is Hao. Are you struggling with worries or negative thoughts that just won't go away? Do you find it difficult to stay positive and treat yourself with compassion? I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Ohio. I received my doctorate of Clinical Psychology, Psy.D., from Wright State University, School of Professional Psychology. I specialize in empowering clients, giving people the skills and insight, to overcome issues relating to anxiety, depression, trauma, and personal relationships. Whether you're dealing with overwhelming feelings, cycles of anxiety and depression, or relationship issues. I'm here to help. Therapy can seem daunting but you're making the right choice. 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 hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!

Marjorie Gentry

Marjorie Gentry, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
22 years of experience
Virtual
I have been a Social Worker for 20 years working with people with all types of concerns for their ability to be successful in this life. If you feel sad or are depressed, anxious, angry, misfit or have parenting problems, career challenges, or are transitioning into a new phase of life that has you questioning who you are, let's talk about it. If you have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse I will help you regain your strength to move to a better place. My counseling style is conversational and interactive. I will help you find the answers that you have to better your life and how you feel about yourself. I believe in treating everyone with kindness, respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines many styles including cognitive-behavioral and motivational interviewing. We will plan treatment to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to look directly in the mirror at yourself and make the changes that will take you to a happier, more fulfilling life. I will support and empower you to take the path of your choice to the goals that you have always had. Let's talk!

Jeffrey Smart

(he/him)

Jeffrey Smart, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
9 years of experience
Virtual
My focus is on a variety of life issues that impede the unique potential of the individual. These include substance abuse and dependency, Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder, anxiety, depression, and trauma as well as major life events that happen to us all. I works with people from all walks of life including children, couples, and adults. Person centered counseling is not a platform on which one seeks advice or fears being judged, as if “under the microscope”. Rather it is a collaborative conversation based on unconditional positive regard, in which counselor and client journey together towards the client’s realization of meaning and goals.

Jye Breckenridge

(he/him)

Jye Breckenridge, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Many people turn to psychotherapy or counseling for help with anxiety, depression, trauma, painful relationship patterns, feeling stuck, or sometimes just the feeling that something is missing from life. Sometimes we may not have the words to describe our feelings, struggles, or suffering. However, with insight into past relationships and experiences, many people can make progress immediately toward overcoming these difficulties and becoming more effective in their work and relationships. I am a licensed clinician with 20 years of experience helping individuals achieve a more fulfilling life.

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Ohio rather than a city like Columbus?

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 Ohio from Cincinnati to Cleveland! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Ohio.

Will my therapist take Blue Cross Blue Shield?

Yes! If you use Blue Cross Blue Shield you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Blue Cross Blue Shield 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 Anger Management?

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. For example, your selected specialty, Anger Management, is filtering therapists in Ohio that work with patients with similar concerns.

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.