Optum Therapists in Ohio

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 231 verified therapists in Ohio 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.

Availability updated: 7/14/2025

Brandon C. Brown

(he/him)

Brandon C. Brown, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Are you seeking answers to the complexities of life? Are you working through the pain of loss? Are you trying to discover your vision for your life? Have you lost faith in God and are working to believe again? Do you constantly worry or fear the unknown? Let me join you in discovering your next steps in holistically resolving these key issues. I won't tell you what to do, but I will certainly help guide you to the place that feels most helpful.

Kristin Curran

(she/her)

Kristin Curran, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
3 years of experience
Virtual
At different points in our lives, we may encounter challenges that feel overwhelming. Often, the hardest step is simply reaching out for help. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio, credentialed by the Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Malone University (2022) and my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University (2020). I currently serve as Secretary on the Board for the Society for Sexual, Affectional, Intersex, and Gender Expansive Identities of Ohio and was honored to be the 2022–2023 Emerging Leader for the Ohio Association for Specialists in Group Work.

Julia Dee, MS

Julia Dee, MS, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
13 years of experience
Virtual
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist in Ohio and South Carolina with over 23 years of therapeutic experience and education in the mental health field. I specialize in providing online therapy for women struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship stress, family issues, parenting stress, workplace stress, and issues with feeling overwhelmed and burned-out.

Debra Butterfield Supporting Addiction Recovery

(she/her)

Debra Butterfield Supporting Addiction Recovery, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm Debra - a licensed independent social worker, supervisor. If you're feeling like something's off-like things could spiral if you're not careful-you're not alone. Whether you're in recovery, ready to begin substance use treatment, or searching for a way to feel more grounded and like yourself again, I'm here to support you. I believe that real change is possible, and that everyone has the capacity to grow into the best version of themselves. You don't have to go through it alone. With 20 years experience specializing in addictions, I offer a down-to-earth, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where we can work together at your pace. It's an honor to walk alongside you as you take this next step. I'm glad you're here.

Crystal L Cooper

(she/her)

Crystal L Cooper, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
15 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Crystal Cooper and I am a Child, Youth and Family Therapist. I am licensed as a LMSW in the state of Texas and a LISW and CDCA in the state of Ohio. I obtained my Bachelors of Arts in Psychology at Kent State University in Kent, Ohio and I then went on to obtained my Masters of Social Work at Cleveland State University in Cleveland, Ohio. I specialize in working with PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Adjustment Disorder,  Oppositional Deviant Disorder, school concerns, aggressive behavioral issues, and emotional regulation. By providing psychoeducation, skills and psychotherapy to patients struggling with mental illness, emotional disturbance and behavior issues I am able to help empower them to become the best version of themselves. I am experienced in providing individual, group, family therapy, crisis intervention, psychoeducation and collaborative care in the home, community, and the education environment. I utilize TF-CBT, motivational interviewing, person-centered, solution-focused, and mindfulness treatment modalities to build a safe and therapeutic relationship, incorporating parents along the way to produce the best possible outcomes to maintain thought, emotional and behavioral changes. Time has no measure, and I value the opportunity and responsibility of making an impact in the lives of others.

Ryan Payne

(he/him)

Ryan Payne, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I’m Ryan. I earned my master’s degree in Counselor Education from The Ohio State University in 2022. Following graduation, I began working in Community Mental Health, where I spent three years in a fast-paced, high-acuity setting. During that time, I had the privilege of working with a diverse range of children, adolescents, adults, and families. I also facilitated a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) support group, helping clients build emotional regulation skills, healthier relationships, and a deeper sense of self-awareness. Outside of therapy, I enjoy spending time with my two rescue dogs, practicing Muay Thai, and immersing myself in nature. I’m a firm believer in the value of slowing down and finding intention in this often chaotic, ever-changing world. As Viktor Frankl once said, “A man with a why can endure any how.” In today’s world of distraction, avoidance, and constant comparison, it’s easy to feel disconnected from what it truly means to live. Fear, doubt, and painful life experiences can cloud our path forward, leaving us feeling stuck or overwhelmed. As your therapist, I can do nothing to take away your pain; however, I vow to sit with you to endure it. I promise to do my best to assist you forthrightly, uncovering and fostering lasting resilience. I’ll offer a safe, compassionate space where we can work collaboratively to explore your story, uncover your strengths, and chart a course forward. Together, we’ll develop practical, meaningful strategies tailored to your unique experience. My commitment is to walk beside you with unwavering support as you pursue healing, growth, and clarity.

Lauren Hall

(she/her)

Lauren Hall, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
12 years of experience
Virtual
I have been a Social Worker for about 12 years, and have worked in multiple settings including in the community, Private Practice, and at two different Children's Hospitals. I have experience working with school age children, teenagers, and adults. I have experience working with individuals with anxiety and depression, as well as some trauma. I also have experience working with individuals working through the adjustment and struggles of parenting, and also have personal experience with this as I am a Mother of two! I identify as a Christian and can incorporate Christian Counseling if a Client chooses that.

Joni Fisher

(she/her)

Joni Fisher, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
12 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed independent Social Worker who has worked in child welfare and adult crisis emergency services for the past 14 years. I was NASW Region V Social Worker of the year in 2016. I have worked in teaching, crisis settings and home based in the past. I am dedicated to helping clients identify and overcome challenging patterns in their lives through a variety of dynamic methods.

Jennifer Payne

(she/her)

Jennifer Payne, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
18 years of experience
Virtual
I have been a counselor for 18 years. I love meeting and working with people of all communities. This often includes clients focusing on mood disorders, self-esteem and anxiety. I also love working with LGBTQGIA2S+ folx and have provided multiple referral letters for clients seeking gender-affirming procedures. I have a casual approach and use a lot of humor in sessions, but don't let that fool you. I take my work with my clients very seriously and work hard to help them move out of pain, suffering and difficulty. Then they are able to realize, accept and take responsibility to define and live out the life to which they aspire.

Jake Bergstedt

Jake Bergstedt, IMFT - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

IMFT
14 years of experience
Virtual
Hi. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist LMFT with 14 year of experience, living in Minnesota, seeing clients in Minnesota or virtually in Ohio. I like to work with an eclectic group of clients, I enjoy seeing all types and walks of life come though my door. I meet client where they are at now, and work with them towards their goals.

Liz Thiel

(she/her)

Liz Thiel, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
22 years of experience
Virtual
I'm so glad you are here! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida, with many years of experience. I enjoy telehealth as a way to meet lots of new clients. I have worked privately and in the community with individuals, families, and couples. I have worked with adults and children and have experience in prisons and juvenile detention facilities, inpatient psychiatric facilities, and schools. I enjoy helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger, depression, family and relationship issues, marriage, co-parenting, life transition, teen issues, grief, career counseling, & domestic violence.

Rob Goodman

Rob Goodman, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I’m Rob. I hail from Steubenville, Ohio. Let’s jump right in. Life is hard- we all need a little help and support on the journey. I see myself as walking beside the people with whom I work. Some need to look into the past and process it, receiving a different perspective on it. Some have a specific goal in mind like decreasing anxiety by learning new skills in a short period of time. Others need a listening ear, with some insights sprinkled in. Others still, benefit from clarity and analysis. What do you need? I believe the interpersonal connection between counselor and client can be healing in and of itself. People are ones that hurt us, we're also the ones that heal each other.

Jennifer Bloom

(she/her)

Jennifer Bloom, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
9 years of experience
Virtual
I see the quiet strength it takes to keep going when the past feels heavy and the future uncertain. You have lived through trauma—pain that has left its mark on your body, mind, and heart. Whether it’s family wounds, sexual or physical abuse, or the unique challenges of navigating your identity in a world that hasn’t always embraced you, your experience is deeply real and profoundly valid. It’s okay to feel lost, overwhelmed, or disconnected. It’s okay to have days when simply surviving feels like the bravest thing you can do. You are not broken—you are human. You have carried burdens that no one should have to carry alone, and yet here you are, still moving forward, still seeking healing and wholeness. This is a space where your story can be held with tenderness and respect. Where your pain is met with empathy, and your growth is celebrated, no matter how small it may seem. You deserve to be seen, heard, and understood exactly as you are. My work is about creating a space where your nervous system can slowly learn that it's safe to exist. To feel. To heal. Therapy with me isn’t about fixing you — it’s about helping you come home to yourself, piece by piece, with compassion, safety, and care. You are not defined by what happened to you. You are defined by your courage to face each day and your capacity to heal in your own time and way. I see you. I honor your journey. And I hold space for all the parts of you that are still finding their way back to joy and peace. I see you.

Dr. Stephanie Farrell

Dr. Stephanie Farrell, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I’m based in North Canton, Ohio, and I bring a unique perspective to my practice as a retired military veteran. I hold a doctorate from the University of Kentucky. I enjoy working with young adults, adolescents, and older adults as they navigate challenges and work toward personal growth. I’m passionate about supporting you through life transitions, and my approach is collaborative, supportive, and tailored to meet you where you are. If you're looking for a safe space to be heard, understood, and supported, I’d be honored to walk alongside you in your journey. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma, using evidence-based approaches to help clients build resilience and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you’re managing the stress of a significant life transition, recovering from trauma, or seeking support for emotional well-being, I’m here to guide you on your journey toward healing and empowering growth.

Andrea Ruta

(she/her)

Andrea Ruta, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm Andrea Ruta, a dedicated mental health professional passionate about supporting individuals on their journey toward well-being and personal growth. I specialize in working with neurodiverse clients, including those with ADHD and autism, providing tailored strategies that honor each person's unique strengths and needs. In addition to my work with neurodiverse individuals, I support clients navigating anxiety, depression, and self-care challenges, as well as those experiencing life transitions and personal growth opportunities. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with mindfulness, nature-based techniques, and spiritual exploration, fostering a holistic healing process that considers the mind, body, and spirit. Whether you're looking to build stronger boundaries, enhance communication skills, or create a more balanced and fulfilling life, I am here to guide and support you. Together, we'll cultivate the tools and insights needed to navigate life's challenges and foster meaningful growth. My compassionate, client-centered philosophy ensures that each session is tailored to your unique needs. I believe in the power of collaboration and will work alongside you to develop strategies aligned with your goals and values, helping you build the life you envision.

Erv Henderson

Erv Henderson, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LPCC
7 years of experience
Virtual
I’m not the kind of therapist who just nods and asks how that makes you feel. That’s not what most men need, especially when it feels like it’s falling apart. I work with men who are overwhelmed, burned out, or angry and don’t know why. Men who feel stuck in their heads, disconnected from the people they love, or like they’re always one step away from snapping. Some are facing divorce. Others are trying to be better dads, partners, or sons, but they often feel like they’re failing. Many were pushed into therapy by someone who cares about them. Almost all of them stay once they realize it helps. My approach is practical, honest, and built for the real world. I use tools from CBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy, plus a good dose of common sense to help you understand what’s going on and actually do something about it. No psychobabble. No lectures. Just straight talk and strategies that work. If you're tired of feeling angry, lost, or numb, it's going to be okay. You're not broken, and you're not alone. This isn’t about becoming someone else. It’s about finding your footing and getting back to who you were before life got so heavy.

Roshanda May

(she/her)

Roshanda May, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor with a passion for helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and reconnect with their most empowered selves. I specialize in working with adults experiencing ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder and women’s issues, including identity, life transitions, self-worth, and emotional overwhelm. Whether you're managing the weight of daily stressors, navigating complex emotional patterns, or feeling stuck in cycles that no longer serve you, I provide a warm, collaborative space where your experiences are heard and validated. Together, we’ll explore the root of what’s holding you back and work toward practical, personalized strategies to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. My goal is to support you in rediscovering your voice, setting healthy boundaries, and prioritizing your well-being without guilt. Therapy is not just about coping — it's about thriving. Let’s take the journey together — to heal, to grow, and to put you back at the center of your life.

Monifa McCarther

(she/her)

Monifa McCarther, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Monifa is a native New Yorker, currently living is Georgia. She has a deep commitment to understanding and supporting her clients on their unique therapeutic journeys. Her holistic approach focuses on addressing the diverse issues her client’s face. Throughout her career, Monifa has dedicated herself to working with individuals in various challenging settings, including the correction system foster system, hospice and hospitals. Her expertise lies in helping clients with alcohol and substance issues, issues, parenting challenges and eating disorder treatment.

Angela Zurface

Angela Zurface, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LPCC
14 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), Licensed Social Worker (LSW), and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC III) based in Ohio. I received my Master from Walden University in Minneapolis and have been practicing for 13 years. I want to help adults find a more lasting solution beyond their immediate mental health concerns. I understand that pain in life is unavoidable and as your therapist, I want to help you work toward a healing solution and bring out the best in you. I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings. With a focus on evidence-based practices, I help individuals navigate life's challenges, improve their mental well-being, and develop coping strategies. My goal is to foster self-discovery and resilience, empowering clients to achieve their personal growth and establish fulfilling relationships.

Alexander Moga

Alexander Moga, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LPCC
12 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over a decade of experience helping adolescents and adults navigate anxiety, depression, and phase-of-life challenges. With advanced training in counselor education and supervision, I combine academic knowledge with practical expertise to provide effective, evidence-based care. Utilizing CBT, ACT, SFBT, and person-centered counseling, I create a supportive space where clients build resilience, gain clarity, and develop skills to lead more fulfilling lives. Through compassionate guidance, I empower individuals to overcome obstacles and make meaningful, lasting changes.

Sherri Dragovich

(she/her)

Sherri Dragovich, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm Sherri. Have you been feeling overwhelmed or lost lately? Is it easy to feel stuck or powerless, isolated from others even when you are not totally alone? Life can be challenging to navigate, especially right now in a world that often feels out of control and overwhelming. I can help you navigate through life's stressors and together we can work to empower you to manage the challenges life throws your way. I primarily work with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship, and life stressors. I am a certified financial coach. I also have a strong connection to the first responder community and their families. As the daughter of a firefighter/paramedic, I have a unique understanding of this population and the challenges they face, and enjoy working with this clientele as well. My goal is to help you find hope and strength to take control of your life and shape it into what makes you happy and fulfilled. I can't wait to work with you! Schedule your appointment with me today!

Jessica Whited

(she/her)

Jessica Whited, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) with experience in working with adults and children from in-patient as well as out-patient settings. I have worked with teenagers and young children for over 10 years. I specialize in working with children with trauma, anxiety, and depression. I have a heart for working with kids and teens with traumatic experiences. My passion began while I was still in high school and wanted to be a teacher. I worked in various daycare facilities as well as having my own in-home daycare and decided I wanted to help kids (and adults) in a more in-depth manner. That is when I began my journey into social work and found my true calling in life. I have experience working with children and adolescents who have been through, or are currently in, the child welfare system as well as working with older teens with substance abuse/misuse issues.

Carla Darnell

(she/her)

Carla Darnell, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
30 years of experience
Virtual
I have always been fascinated by how people work. As a child I loved learning about how the body works. As I got older my focus shifted to how minds work and how people function in this world. My education centered around mental health how to help people with their problems. I have an MS in Life Span Development and an Med in Counselor Education, both from Purdue University and am now a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Ohio. I enjoy gardening, traveling and learning new things. I am an optimist. My general way of relating to people is one of listing intently enough to be able to see things from their point of view, and to show respect, warmth, and humor. I believe that establishing a strong, supportive relationship is of utmost importance in therapy. Respect and honesty are essential for effective therapy. Together we can solve problems and improve bad situations.

Sophie Kiri

(she/her)

Sophie Kiri, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
Has intro video
LPCC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! Welcome to my page! My name is Sophie. I am a currently independently licensed in FL, OH and IN. My goal is to be a level sounding board and safe place for you! I work collaboratively with my clients to meet their goals. It is so important to feel heard and validated. My hope is to provide that for you! I hope to make you feel empowered through our work together. I know it is not always easy to ask for help, you are so brave for doing so. I received a BA in Psychology and a M.Ed. in rehabilitation counseling and mental health counseling from FAU. I love working with all people. My interests include: mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, chronic pain, fertility issues/women’s health, relationship/family issues and trauma. I love helping people find solutions to life's problems and teaching skills to aid in symptom reduction! I would love to meet you and see if we are a good fit! Office hours are Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Eastern Standard Time. I only work virtually, feel free to reach out if you don't see a day or time that works for you.

Suzy Zumwalde

(she/her)

Suzy Zumwalde, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Ohio. I received my masters degree from Antioch University. Marietta, Ohio has been my home since 2010. In 2017, I made the decision to pursue a career in counseling to help improve the mental health of youth, adolescents, and adults in my community. I specialize in youth, adolescent, and adult counseling.

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 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.

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.