Optum Therapists in Ohio

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 236 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: 11/3/2025

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Terry Driskill

LPCC, 21 years of experience

New to Grow

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Depression
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+5
With over 21 years of experience in behavioral health, I’ve had the privilege of working with clients of all ages—from children to older adults—in settings such as private practice and inpatient care. I bring a calm, steady presence and strong listening skills to each session, helping clients uncover the root causes of their distress. My goal is to walk alongside you on your journey to healing, offering compassion, understanding, and practical tools that support your growth. Blessings
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Michael Kerschner

LP, 32 years of experience

Authentic
Intelligent
Solution oriented

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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James Foster

LISW, 20 years of experience

Open-minded
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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Joni Fisher

LISW, 12 years of experience

Warm
Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+10
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.
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Robert Ksiazkiewicz

LPCC, 1 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Direct
Warm

Specialties

Addiction
Anger Management
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I am a counselor with experience supporting people facing challenges with mental health, addiction, and dual-diagnosis concerns. I believe that everyone’s journey is unique, so I use a mix of proven therapy approaches to help each person find what works best for them. Whether someone is looking for support with life changes, managing symptoms, or building new skills, I am here to listen and offer guidance in a safe, accepting space. My goal is to help clients discover their strengths and work together toward achieving their personal goals and objectives.
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Dr. Stephanie Farrell

LISW, 6 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Military/Veterans
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hello! I’m based in 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.
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Aaron Saez

LISW, 10 years of experience

Solution oriented
Direct
Intelligent

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Couples Counseling
Depression
+10
Hi, I’m Aaron Saez, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges. I specialize in evidence-based therapy, crisis intervention, and grief counseling, and have worked in a range of settings including private practice, hospitals, and community organizations. I’m committed to providing compassionate, culturally responsive care that centers your safety, growth, and well-being.
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Daniel Button

IMFT, 5 years of experience

Solution oriented
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Couples Counseling
Men's Issues
Parenting
+10
I’m a marriage and family therapist working with all ages and backgrounds, so your struggles won’t surprise me. But everyone faces challenges a little differently. That's why unlike advice-givers, I’m here to help you figure out what’s causing your worries and what you'd like to do about them. I listen and support you to find answers that fit you, turning problems into growth.
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Jake Bergstedt

IMFT, 14 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Direct
Open-minded

Specialties

Depression
Family Conflict
Men's Issues
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.
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Elliott Keegan

LPCC, 6 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+1
I’m a combat Veteran turned Therapist. I believe that the client needs to express the issues and trauma that they have along with being given coping skills and tools to deal with The symptoms associated with them. I believe in being proactive. I don’t want the client to think that I’m just there listening and nodding my head. I want them to know that this is a collaborative process and I’m in it with them to help them become with self and overcome any obstacles in their way.
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Laurel Bourgeois

LISW, 10 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Grief
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
I grew up in the Cleveland area and then came to Michigan where I completed my Bachelor's degree at Hope College where I studied social work. While in school I completed a field placement working as a probation officer and spent time in Mental Health and Sobriety Treatment Court. After graduation, my now husband and I moved back to Cleveland where I completed my Masters in Social Work with a specialization in Health Studies at Case Western Reserve University. While in school I completed internships with the Cleveland Clinic in their Adolescent Psychiatric Unit as well as an interdisciplinary internship at Care Alliance. Following graduation, I worked in admissions for psychiatric and detox services for six years. I then wanted to expand my skill set and pursued a position providing therapy to health care employees as an EAP counselor at a local hospital system. I found that I really love the opportunity to get to know my clients and to walk alongside them on their journey.
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Phil Sunseri

LPCC, 3 years of experience

Specialties

Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Self Esteem
+2
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in western Pennsylvania. I received my master's degree from Westminster College (PA) in 2021 and bachelor's degree from Slippery Rock University in 2018. I currently work as an LPC at a nonprofit outpatient mental health organization during the day, and see clients through Grow during the evenings. I enjoy helping others be the best versions of themselves and watching them be able to overcome life's toughest obstacles.
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Cathy Flanagan

LISW, 14 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Depression
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
+1
Hello! I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker-Supervisor based in Ohio. I graduated from the University of Toledo with a master’s degree in Social Work. I have been providing therapy services for the past 14 years, 7 of those years in hospital psychiatric care. I have also provided therapy services to teens in treatment foster care and adults in community mental health agencies. I tend to treat adults who are struggling with trauma, life transitions, family/ relationship distress and overall day to day functioning.
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Kim Penfound

LPCC, 10 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Life Transitions
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Ohio, with 10 years of counseling experience. I offer in-person sessions in the Columbus area and online therapy throughout the state. My background in various service-oriented careers has shaped my approach, and I specialize in empowering individuals to navigate life’s challenges, build confidence, and live an enriched, value-centered life.
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Cally Skalko

LPCC, 25 years of experience

Empowering
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+9
Hello! My name is Cally Skalko and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. Over the past 25 years working in education and psychology, I have worked in behavioral health community centers, clinics, private practices, hospitals, residential treatment facilities and specialty school programs. I have mentored youth and their families on the Akimel O’odham Reservation, taught students ages K-8 as a public educator, directed and trained teachers in birth through school age childcare facilities, and opened my home and heart to six amazing young people as their foster mom (“auntie/Tia"). ​ Therapy includes a variety of modalities and skills in sessions ranging from REBT, CBT, DBT, Reality Therapy, Substance Use and Addiction Counseling, Trauma Therapy and Animal Assisted Therapy. ​ My passion as a therapist is guiding and supporting my clients toward peace and a holistic life of LOVE. Simply defined by loving themselves, others, and their higher power in a way that manifests healing and lasting change.
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Bethany Bolin

LPCC, 6 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

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.
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Jamie Scamihorn

LISW, 11 years of experience

Warm
Solution oriented
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+8
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing for over 10 years. I graduated from Indiana University with my Masters in 2013. I work with my clients on addressing their individual needs as well as equipping them with the tools (skills) they need to be successful. I enjoy learning what motivates my clients so that we can collaborate together to set realistic goals and I am transparent with my clients and work together as a team. I strive to provide a safe and encouraging space for my clients to work toward growth and healing.
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Elisa Hershey

LPCC, 20 years of experience

Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Coping Skills
Military/Veterans
Self Esteem
+7
I am an art therapist and LPCC-S (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor - Supervisor). I have been working in the mental health and addiction world for over 20 years. I have had the pleasure of joining forces with children from the age of 3, to children the age of 87. I come from a family that has a long line of veterans and first responders. I have a strong passion for supporting our veterans and first responders but am open to partnering with anyone wanting assistance in life. I welcome any in person sessions as I am very much an empath and thrive when I can feel each person’s emotions in person. I own my own practice, Freedom Wellness Center LLC, in Canal Fulton, Ohio. The link to my website is at the bottom of this page.
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Anderson Frederick II, MSW

LISW, 15 years of experience

Empowering
Authentic
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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Natalie FRANKITO

LPCC, 10 years of experience

Authentic
Humorous
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
+14
Hi, I'm Natalie, Do you feel tired of not being heard, or are afraid, anxious, depressed no desire to stand up and advocate for yourself Do you feel lost, with no direction, or in the wrong direction, lacking purpose? Let me help you find your compass so that you can navigate life's present challenges with hope, peace and clarity! I provide holistic, integrative counseling and believe that the mind, body and soul are all connected. I provide a safe and inviting space where you can be you, free to explore your feelings and behaviors past and present without fear of judgment. I will tailor your sessions to address your needs, bringing in your faith if you choose, and integrating it with Mental Health Therapies. I provide services to men and women ages 18 and over, that struggle with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, abuse, divorce, adjustment, phase of life, chronic pain, work, communication, relationship, family, school, lack of motivation, church, self-esteem and connection. I look forward to taking this journey with you!
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Sara Frohlich

LPCC, 21 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Solution oriented
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Military/Veterans
+8
With over 21 years of experience in the mental health field, I am dedicated to helping adults navigate life’s challenges and find healing. As an LPCC licensed in both Ohio and Kentucky, I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and self-esteem issues. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of Cincinnati, and my approach integrates a deep understanding of human emotion with a genuine desire to create meaningful change. My therapeutic style is warm, approachable, and often includes humor to help create an open and supportive space for growth. I use trauma-informed care and evidence-based practices to help clients process past experiences, build resilience, and reclaim their sense of safety and control. Validation, empathy, and humor are key tools I use to make healing feel not only possible but hopeful. Together, we work to foster lasting change, create healthier coping strategies, and develop a stronger, more empowered sense of self. Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but with the right support, transformation is always within reach. I am here to walk with you, every step of the way, toward a future filled with healing, strength, and peace.
Virtual
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Mollie Ridings

LISW, 10 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Personality Disorders
Sexual Abuse
Spirituality
+10
Hello, I'm Mollie! If you feel like your past is a constant hurdle in your present and you're eager for positive change, you've come to the right place. I specialize in working with individuals to rediscover hope even in the most challenging circumstances. Together, we'll pinpoint the barriers hindering your progress and confront them directly. My approach is holistic, addressing the mind, body, and spirit. I blend Biblical principles, mindfulness, and trauma therapy to provide a comprehensive and tailored solution. Whether you're wrestling with feelings of failure, self-harm, relationship challenges, intimacy issues, or the trauma of past abuse, I'm here to assist you in discovering hope and answers for moving forward. Taking the initiative to open up to someone new can be intimidating, but it's a commendable first step. In our sessions, expect a judgment-free zone where you'll encounter a variety of techniques tailored to suit you and your specific needs. Your journey toward healing is important, and I'm committed to providing the support and tools necessary for your progress.
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Nicole Craig

LISW, 29 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQ
+10
Hello. I am a seasoned therapist with 30 years of experience working with a variety of individuals facing trying times. We all come upon hard times throughout our journey. I believe that having someone in your corner helping with regaining self care, self worth, balance among change and the courage to forge ahead is paramount when dealing with challenges in this thing called "life". I am easy going and sometimes I can be funny. I love my job and feel honored to be able to work alongside remarkable people each day. I learn something new with each and every person and feel that therapy is a collaboration of strengths between therapist and client.
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Rick Browne

LP, 10 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Intelligent
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+10
I'm a compassionate professional who takes the time to truly listen and understand where you're coming from. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, difficulties with relationships, or something else, my goal is to support you in making meaningful changes that help you feel better and live more fully. I’ll meet you where you are, offering empathy, insight, and practical guidance every step of the way.
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Shurla Morris

LISW, 7 years of experience

Authentic
Empowering
Direct

Specialties

Depression
Domestic Violence
Parenting
+2
Hello, my name is Shurla and I am a Board Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the Founder of Restorative Thoughts Counsel. I received a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Alabama and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Oakwood University. With over a decade of experience in social services and more than seven years dedicated to mental health care, I am deeply committed to fostering healing and growth.
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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.

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.