Optum Therapists in Ohio

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 255 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: 12/30/2025

Empowering
Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
As a Licensed Mental Health Professional and Owner of a Telehealth-based Treatment and Training Center, I bring over 15 years of expertise in utilizing CBT and DBT therapeutic approaches to address a wide range of mental health concerns, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Dual Diagnosis, Grief, Parenting, and Relationship issues. Specializing in individual counseling, I offer tailored support for those seeking a Christian or faith-based perspective. My commitment is to provide compassionate, client-centered care that fosters resilience and empowers individuals to achieve meaningful change.
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Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Foster Care/Adoption
Health/Medical Issues
LGBTQ
+10
Hello, I’m Gina — and I’m glad you are taking the next step! If you’re navigating life with complex challenges, know that you don’t have to do it alone. You’ve found a safe, affirming space. I offer a trauma-informed, affirming space to process complex emotions, reduce stress, and build resilience. My approach is compassionate, real, and personalized — drawing from evidence-based practices and years of hands-on experience. You deserve a therapist who truly sees you. Let’s work together to create healing and growth on your terms. With over 16 years of experience, I specialize in working with people who often feel overlooked or misunderstood in traditional mental health spaces. My approach is compassionate, straightforward, and tailored to your needs. I combine evidence-based practices with a strong dose of real-world experience. I believe that healing doesn’t always look the same for everyone — so we’ll work together to find the tools, strategies, and pace that feel right for you. Above all, I’m here to offer a space where you can feel truly seen — not judged.
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Humorous
Holistic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Fertility & Reproduction Issues
+10
Kiersten DeFord, LISW-S : Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor Designation After receiving my masters in social work from Wright State University, I have had the privilege of walking alongside individuals for the past 8 years as they navigate both the heaviness, and hope life brings. Their challenges and the quiet transformations. Based in Dayton, I serve clients across Ohio through virtual therapy, and I’m passionate about creating a space that feels safe, kind, and human. My approach is deeply reflective and rooted in kindness. I believe therapy is less about “fixing” and more about creating space for discovery, healing, and growth. Together, we’ll explore the patterns, emotions, and stories that shape your life—at a pace that feels safe and honoring to you. My goal is to help you not only manage difficult seasons, but also cultivate deeper self-understanding, resilience, and compassion for yourself. I see therapy as a space where you don’t have to carry things alone. My role is to sit with you, listen deeply, and help you untangle the thoughts and feelings that may feel overwhelming. I’m not here to tell you who to be, but to walk alongside you as you figure out what feels right for your life. Clients often describe me as grounding, and compassionate, with an energy that makes it easier to open up. I strive to create a space where you can breathe, reflect, and feel truly heard—like talking with someone who cares about you and your story, and supports you while you reconnect with your strengths and move toward the life you want to create.
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Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
LGBTQ
Life Transitions
+3
Hi there! I'm Ross (he/him), and I'm so happy you are making the steps to focus on your mental health. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes therapy should feel like a safe, affirming space where you can be your authentic self without judgement. Because of this I focus primarily on using affirmative therapy as my main modality. I specialize in working with young adults and adults, especially those in the LGBTQIA+ community, who may be navigating identity, relationships, anxiety, or life transitions. I also have experience with assisting those experiencing burnout whether from caregiving, work, or from other aspects of life! My approach is person-centered and strengths-based, which means I'll meet you where you are, honor your experiences, and support you in building the confidence and tools you need to thrive. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, identity development, relationships, or navigating life in general I'd be happy to support you and walk with you through that journey. I know it can be overwhelming to start therapy, but you don't have to go through this alone and I'd be honored to support you through those challenging times. Together, we'll focus on your strengths, explore what's meaningful to you, and help you move forward feeling more grounded, empowered, and understood.
VirtualAvailable
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Solution oriented
Intelligent

Specialties

Eating Disorders
Military/Veterans
Trauma and PTSD
+9
☕✨ Coffee & Talk: Therapy Made Simple ✨☕ If you’ve been struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, trauma, addiction, or simply feeling stuck in life, you don’t have to go through it alone. Therapy is a safe space to be heard, supported, and guided toward becoming the best version of yourself. Hi, I’m Jeralyn R. Tharp, M.Ed., LPCC-S, LICDC, GAMB — a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor & Supervisor, Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor, and Gambling Specialist. With over 28 years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals and families from many walks of life, including military personnel, veterans, and their loved ones. I believe therapy doesn’t have to feel intimidating — think of it as sitting down for a comforting cup of coffee (or tea, or even water!) and having a real conversation about what matters most to you. 🌿 What to Expect in Our Virtual Coffee & Therapy Chat: Complete your pre-admission tasks – please ensure all forms and requirements are submitted before our session. Please note I do have a 24 hour no show policy for appointments. Pick your drink of choice – coffee, tea, water… or just come as you are. Find your comfortable spot – a cozy chair, your favorite corner, or anywhere you can be yourself. Join the conversation – I’ll provide the link, and together we’ll create a safe and supportive space where you can build resilience, find hope, and explore practical strategies for everyday challenges. Reaching out takes courage — and my goal is to meet you exactly where you are. Therapy is your safe place to grow, heal, and uncover strengths you may not even realize you have. So grab your mug, bring yourself (or just come as you are), and let’s begin this journey together. ☕💬
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Open-minded

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi, I’m Robin Deemer, a passionate and compassionate mental health professional dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their lives and rise above the challenges that hold them back. With years of experience in counseling and addiction recovery, I specialize in working with people navigating trauma, substance use, anxiety, problematic gambling, and major life transitions. I believe in meeting each person exactly where they are, offering a safe space free from judgment and full of hope. My approach is person centered and trauma informed, blending evidence based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, and mindfulness techniques. My mission is to walk beside you as you rebuild your life on your own terms. When I’m not in session, you’ll likely find me engaged in one of my many crafting hobbies, drinking coffee, or dreaming up new ways to make therapy more accessible and human. I’m honored to be part of your journey.
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Solution oriented
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I am an highly experienced doctoral-level provider with an Ohio license for clinical psychology. I have been practicing in numerous settings throughout my long career, including working in institutions and in private practice. I am used to effectively treating the vast majority of individuals who walk through my door, giving me a wide-ranging skillset. I am a goal-oriented therapist, and I know that people who are coming to me are often in noteworthy distress, and it is my duty as your doctor to alleviate this distress. Working collaboratively is important, and knowing your goals for therapy is of utmost importance. My standards for myself for you is high; every person will get treatment plan, which is the active steps to alleviate the ailment. I will communicate my diagnosis and the treatment plan I am planning, and will only proceed with your endorsement of the plan. If you come to me with a specific diagnosis, and you do therapy with me and these conditions aren't being alleviated, then we are not meeting the objectives of therapy. If progress does not occur, then efforts will be made to try to discover why progress isn't occurring. Should you still not progress on your goals and diagnosis, I will be open to finding you a provider who might help. Having been a generalist provider, my best skills are for those that present the most in the population, including depression disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders and trauma. I employ prolonged exposure as my technique for helping traumatized people, and this would be an excellent treatment for individuals who are new to trauma processing or have failed at EMDR.
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Authentic
Empowering
Holistic

Specialties

Men's Issues
Addiction
Anger Management
+7
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio. I have been practicing in the field of counseling for the past 10 years. I work with Christian men of all ages to assist them in walking through pornography or sexual addiction, depression, anxiety, compassion fatigue, along with other concerns. I can help provide space to explore, gentle and biblical guidance, compassionate accountability, and excited encouragement through progress.
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Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Grief
Military/Veterans
Trauma and PTSD
+7
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience in helping others. I have served children, adults, couples, military members and their families. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and have seen great results when using this method with my clients. I am a veteran, retired military spouse, and have dealt with grief on a personal level, which I believe helps me to be more empathetic for my clients.
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Holistic
Authentic

Specialties

Career Counseling
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
+6
I tend to thrive in crisis. Ideal with the toughest cases of trauma, shootings, cults abductions, and domestic violence. I have been able to help so many veterans as well over the past 12+ years in my positions with US Service Animals, Simple, Practice, Grow Therapy and other telehealth platforms. I was an early adopter of telehealth and I have seen it. Make such a difference for so many people because of the comfort that is brought by being able to open up in an environment you know is safe, your own home/space. I take a solutions focused and a client centered approach. I am also insight oriented. I have a lot of insight when it comes to dealing with physical pain and disabilities as I have a visual disability since very young and suffered a TBI at age 24. I like to focus on what issues you are having and come up with coping mechanisms that will work for you. Dealing with the struggles I have had throughout my life has helped me work with people and develop creative and effective coping mechanisms for their specific issues. I have now lived and worked in several states with varying cultures and have benefited from all of these experiences. I have spent a lot of time in a hospital and work well with nurses and medical professionals as well. Please reach out if you think I can help and I will meet you where you are and see where we can go from here.
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Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Parenting
+4
If you're feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or unsure of who you are outside of all the roles that you carry- you're not alone. Whether you are navigating the challenges of motherhood, adjusting to life transitions, or simply longing for a space to breathe and reconnect with yourself, I'm here to support you. As a person centered therapy, I believe every woman holds the capacity to make active changes in their life that bring long lasting growth. My role is to walk alongside you with empathy and authenticity - creating a space where you can be seen, heard, and valued.
VirtualAvailable
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Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Gambling Addiction
+9
Hi, my name is Stephanie Geer and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and International Certified Gambling Counselor with 10 years of experience in the field. I believe that everyone has the ability to change, and I am passionate about helping others realize their true potential and supporting them on their healing journey. In our sessions, I will create a warm, welcoming space where you can feel safe to express yourself without judgement. I take a holistic approach that will honor your unique needs and strengths, while empowering you to build the resilience to reach your goals.
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Warm
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Autism
Hello, my name is Marcie Williams. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and the founder of Affirming Autism, LLC. I have more than 5 years of experience helping clients with a variety of mental health issues ranging from situational stress to severe mental illness. I have worked extensively with clients who struggle with addiction both one-on-one and in groups. Having firsthand experience parenting autism, I have a particular interest in serving the autism community and have spent considerable time educating myself on the current issues affecting this population and their caregivers.
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Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
First Responders/Healthcare Workers
+10
A resident of the Midwest and rust belt, I have been in the field since 2012. I graduated from Youngstown State University with a Bachelors degree in Criminal Justice and Forensics. I went on to obtain my Masters degree in education with a focus on counseling, specifically addiction counseling. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a supervision designation, a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor, Department of Transportation qualified Substance Abuse Professional, and a Certified Employee Assistance Professional. I began my career working in the substance use field and then expanded into the world of employee assistance. I have the honor of working with law enforcement, first responders and military/veterans. Throughout my career I have worked with individuals struggling with work-related concerns, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, grief, trauma, PTSD, pre/post-partum depression and change of life challenges.
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Empowering
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Women's Issues
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+8
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.
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Frequently rebooked

Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Men's Issues
Women's Issues
+10
My name is Gary Youssef and I have been providing mental/behavioral health services for children, adolescents, adults and families for 25+ years. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing mental/behavioral health issues impacting children and adults such as: career/school stressors, depression, anxiety, relational issues, parenting, family systems, medical challenges, healthy lifestyles, etc. I worked for 14 years as a therapist and program manager at the central outpatient psychiatry clinic at Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego which is ranked as one of the top 10 children's hospitals in the United States by U.S. News and World report. I have helped provide behavioral health services for over 10,000 children, adults and families throughout San Diego County. In addition, I helped support U.S. service members and their families while working as a military family life counselor at Naval Medical Center-San Diego in Pediatrics. I also volunteered at San Diego Unified School District and coached little league. I love being a father to my two awesome sons and I enjoy athletics and cooking in my free time. I am practical and eclectic therapist combining elements from theoretical orientations such as cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy to help clients of all ages. The vast majority of my clients report that they had a good experience working with me and describe me as experienced, professional, friendly, kind, helpful and effective.
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Solution oriented
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Depression
+10
With over 20+ years of experience, LiveWell Counseling and Coaching is dedicated to empowering individuals to overcome their mental health challenges and achieve personal growth. Our team of experienced professionals are committed to providing high-quality counseling and coaching services tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. We offer a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions and develop the skills to live a fulfilling life. Our approach integrates evidence-based psychotherapy and coaching techniques to help you reach your full potential. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or daily challenges, we are here to support you on your journey to mental wellness and resilience.
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Empowering
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Eating Disorders
+9
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 Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Eating Disorders 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.
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New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor, LPCC-S. I have approximately 16 years of experience as a therapist. I have worked in a various settings with a variety of clients. Since 2020, I have primarily provided telehealth counseling to adults. I am trained in CBT and DBT. I incorporate skills from both. When I'm not working, I enjoy spending time reading or being outside.
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Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Eating Disorders
+2
I've spent my career working with individuals to challenge and change unwanted thought patterns and behaviors. I understand that starting therapy can be scary. I work hard to build a safe, non-judgemental space for my client's to feel seen and supported. Outside of therapy, I love being with my family and our rescue pittie, reading, hiking, and drinking lots of coffee. Thank you for taking the time to read my bio and consider me as your therapist, I hope we can work together towards making positive change.
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Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Anger Management
+7
I'm an Independent Licensed Social Worker (LISW-S) with over a decade of clinical experience. I hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Morehead State University and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Kentucky. I'm passionate about creating a supportive, relaxed environment where everyone can feel comfortable exploring their concerns. I work with individuals, couples, and families to address a wide range of challenges. I integrate a person-centered approach into my therapy style, allowing clients to feel understood and empowered as they navigate personal growth.
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Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

ADHD
Child or Adolescent
Coping Skills
+10
Hello, Welcome to my practice... Blessed Journey, LLC. I have been a counselor for over 20 years. I work with all ages of people. I especially enjoy working with children, ages 5-12. Cognitive-Behavior Therapy is my primary modality. I also like to add methods that allow for self-expression through the arts, focusing on solutions and play. I have training in trauma recovery as well. I want clients to leave each session with a new coping skills, motivation to make a small change and feeling they have been heard.
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Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Couples Counseling
+2
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where we can work together on the challenges you’re facing. Using evidence-based approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, I’ll help you explore thoughts, feelings, and patterns, build practical skills, and strengthen your resilience so you can move toward growth, balance, empowerment and meaningful change. I look forward to working with you!
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Open-minded
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+6
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over a decade of experience supporting adolescents and adults in managing anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. With advanced training in counselor education and supervision, I integrate academic insight with hands-on clinical practice to deliver effective, evidence-based care. My approach draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and person-centered counseling to foster resilience, clarity, and growth. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients develop the tools they need to navigate challenges, strengthen relationships, and create lasting, meaningful change.
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Authentic
Open-minded
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
I have had the privilege of working with with a broad range of clients for 5 years in the counseling field. This experience has been beneficial and rewarding in my journey of understanding and providing strong clinical guidance towards a wide range people. I love to take a multi-modal and flexible approach to psychotherapy so that I can better serve each individual.
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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.

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.