Optum Therapists in Ohio

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 269 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: 8/25/2026

Direct
Empowering
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+2
Ready to break free from the weight of trauma, anxiety, or overwhelming grief? If self-doubt, social anxiety, or past pain have kept you stuck, EMDR therapy offers a proven path to lasting healing and growth. Together, we’ll work to release emotional barriers so you can reclaim your peace, purpose, and power. In a safe, compassionate space, I provide personalized care tailored to your unique journey. Using EMDR, we’ll address unresolved trauma, ease anxiety, and bring lasting relief from emotional pain. My mission is to support your growth, clarity, and confidence so you can step into a life of freedom and fulfillment. Your healing journey starts here — let’s take the first step together.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Chronic Illness / Medical Issues
Emotional Regulation
Women's Issues
+9
Reaching out for therapy can feel like a big step, and finding someone you genuinely feel comfortable talking to matters. My hope is that therapy can be a place where you can show up as yourself, talk openly about what’s going on, and know that you don’t have to have everything figured out before you walk through the door. I provide virtual therapy for adults throughout Florida, Ohio, and Indiana. My style is warm, conversational, and collaborative. I’m not the kind of therapist who just sits back and nods—I’m engaged, I ask questions, and we’ll talk things through together. We can laugh when things are funny, sit with the hard stuff when they’re not, and work toward changes that feel realistic for your life. I have a special interest in working with people navigating chronic illness, chronic pain, infertility, IVF, endometriosis, and other medical experiences. When your health becomes a big part of your life, it can affect your relationships, work, identity, and how you feel about yourself. Therapy can give you space to talk about all of it, not just the medical part. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, so I tailor our work to you. I draw from ACT, CBT, ERP, DBT skills, mindfulness, and trauma-informed care, while keeping our sessions personal, practical, and focused on what matters to you. I’ve been a therapist for more than 11 years and genuinely love the work I do. If you think we might be a good fit, I’d love to work with you. You can schedule an appointment whenever you’re ready to get started.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Humorous
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
+4
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervision Endorsement (LPCC-S) practicing in the state of Ohio. I help those who struggle with anxiety, depression, addiction, and many other issues. I have experience working with people who are struggling with suicidal thoughts and other mental health crises. I encourage you to be open and honest, so I can best help you achieve your therapeutic goals!
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Life Transitions
Peer Relationships
Self Esteem
+9
My name is Margaret Whitmore, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I began working in the mental health field in 2015 as a case manager. In 2019, I graduated with my master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and Art Therapy from Ursuline College. I am dedicated to providing counseling services to those looking to reignite their spark in life.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
+8
Hi, I’m Meagan. I work with adults who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of their next steps — especially when stress, anxiety, or major life transitions start to affect confidence, relationships, or daily functioning. I take a practical, supportive approach to therapy, helping you understand what’s getting in your way, identify your strengths, and develop skills you can actually use in real life. My goal is to help you feel more confident, grounded, and capable of managing challenges as you move toward the life you want.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Humorous
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+10
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.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Direct
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I am licensed in the state of Ohio with 10 years of professional experience. I have helped clients with stress, life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, and other concerns. Thank you for taking the steps to engage in therapy. I provide a space where clients can be their authentic selves, allowing them to discuss and process life events that contribute to their distress. A key focus is helping clients overcome mental anguish by fostering a supportive environment, providing encouragement, and teaching effective coping skills. This enables them to enhance their enjoyment of life and improve their mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
VirtualAvailable

Often rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Humorous
Specialties
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Depression
+10
I graduated with my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2016 and I have been practicing counseling in Ohio since October 2016. I have worked with a wide spectrum of clients ranging from teenagers up to retirees. I specialize in working with youth, teens, and adults, but I thrive working with clients across the lifespan. My hope is to help clients achieve their goals for therapy, no matter the age group or struggle.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
As a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW-S) based in Columbus, Ohio, with years of clinical experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating the lasting impact of trauma, chronic stress, anxiety, and life transitions. My work is grounded in empathy and a deep understanding of the emotional and psychological challenges people face across diverse personal and professional backgrounds. I hold a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Denver and a Bachelor’s degree from THE Ohio State University. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with adults from all walks of life who are seeking to manage overwhelming emotions, heal from past experiences, and cultivate resilience. In our work together, I offer a safe, confidential space where you can feel heard, supported, and empowered. Whether you're facing burnout, anxiety, or navigating a major life change, I meet you where you are and support your journey toward emotional well-being and personal growth.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Older Adults
+4
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 40+ years of experience in providing mental health treatment and evaluations. I pursued an academic track early in my career with faculty appointments in the medical schools of Hahnemann, Brown, and Case Western Reserve Universities. I have been published in professional psychology and medical journals, and presented both nationally and internationally. I have now pursued private practice for 25+ years primarily as an outpatient psychologist and individual psychotherapist. I work with adults ages 18 and older, including seniors. I have engaged effectively with diverse populations experiencing a wide array of difficulties. My special interests are in treating Mood Disorders (Depression and Bipolar Disorder), Anxiety and Stress-Related Disorders, Men's Issues, and Chronic Pain.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Warm
Authentic
Specialties
Mood Disorders
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
Women's Issues
Hello, I’m Brittany. Are you looking for a better understanding of yourself and your reactions? Maybe you want better relationships or better balance in your life to reduce stress. I work with those ready to challenge themselves to achieve a better quality of life. I specialize in identifying your unique issue and applying solutions so sessions feel productive and worthwhile.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Depression
Substance Misuse
Trauma and PTSD
+6
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC) based in Ohio. In addition, I am a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), and offer those in DOT related industries the opportunity to return to duty while insuring the safety of the public. I received my Master degree from Liberty University and have been working with adults, children and couples for over 31 years in various helping capacities. I help those that struggle with depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma and other related issues.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Specialties
Foster Care/Adoption
Health/Medical Issues
LGBTQ
+9
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.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Autism
+5
I’m so glad you’re here! My name is Erica Richley-Duda, and I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio. For the past 22 years, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside children, adolescents, and adults, helping them navigate challenges, understand themselves more deeply, and create meaningful change in their lives. My experience has allowed me to work with individuals across many different stages of life, and I truly value the unique perspective that each stage brings. I have extensive knowledge and experience supporting children and adolescents with emotional, behavioral, social, and school-related challenges, as well as helping parents better understand and support their children. I also work with adults who may be navigating relationships, anxiety, trauma, self-discovery, or simply feeling stuck and unsure of what comes next. Additionally, I have experience working with couples and relationship concerns, helping partners better understand one another and strengthen their connection. I believe that every person brings a unique story, and that effective counseling begins with truly listening to that story. My goal is to create a space where clients of all ages feel safe, understood, encouraged, and empowered to take their next steps. Outside of counseling, I love spending time outdoors and taking walks with my dog, Noble! I’m also the author of two books, Unmasking ADHD: Navigating the Neurodivergent Mind and Unlocking Trauma: Creating Trauma-Informed Environments and Transforming School Discipline.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Chronic Illness
Life Transitions
+10
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Supervisor (LPCC-S) in Ohio. I received my Master's degree from Wright State University and have been practicing in the field for 10 years. I'm a generalist that works with a wide variety of clients with different concerns ranging from adjustment to mood disorders. I have vast experience with adolescents, young adults, and adults. My experience has ranged from inpatient, private practice to college counseling centers.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Spirituality
+5
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counsellor (LPCC-S) based in OHIO. I received my Associate of Arts in Biblical Studies from Ohio Christian University. Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Ethics from Mid-America Christian University, Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from South University. I provide compassionate counseling for women navigating anxiety, emotional exhaustion, trauma, identity struggles, and life transitions through an integrative and faith-sensitive approach. I have worked with clients aged 6 to 80 in community and private practice settings. I have also worked with Medical Students at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine helping young adults struggling to become the best versions of themselves.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented
Specialties
Mood Disorders
Serious Mental Illness
Trauma and PTSD
Michelle Hartenstein MSW, LISW-S is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a Master's Degree from the University of Cincinnati with an emphasis on Specialized Mental Health across the lifespan. She completed her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Northern Kentucky University. Michelle brings over 20 years of experience working in various therapeutic settings ranging from community mental health, dual diagnosis settings, inpatient, and psychiatric services in both residential, private practice and acute hospitalization settings. She began her career working with SES children and families in the foster care and dependency court system in Southeastern Ohio. Michelle currently enjoys working with adolescents, adults, and couples utilizing a multidimensional approach. In addition, she has provided Clinical Supervision for Master's-level interns and dependently licensed professionals. Michelle's areas of expertise include individual and relational issues, anxiety, depression, trauma focused and personal growth. Michelle believes therapy is a very individualized journey where each individuals biological, psychological, social, and spiritual needs are thoroughly assessed. Michelle provides Christian counseling upon request. Michelle believes in the power of vulnerability and the beauty of resilience. She begins each day with the Serenity Prayer asking the Lord her Savior to not only provide her with the courage, strength, knowledge, wisdom and patience but to also be with each and every client she encounters to assist them in overcoming their hardships. Therapy is a self-discovering journey, I look forward to embarking on this adventure together. When Michelle is not working she seeks adventure in the beauty of nature, often found traveling, photography, health and fitness and spending time with her Husband and son.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Parenting
+3
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.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+12
Bilingual in English and Spanish. Bilingüe en inglés y español. I am licensed in Florida with 13 years of professional work experience. Soy licenciada en la Florida con 13 años de experiencia como terapeuta profesional. I have experience in helping patients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, and career difficulties. Tengo vasta experiencia ayudando a mis clientes con sus estresores, ansiedades, con pérdidas de seres queridos u otra índole, motivación, autoestima y autoconfianza, así como cambios o desarrollos de carreras. I work with my patients 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. Trabajo con mis pacientes para crear un ambiente abierto y seguro en el cual los pensamientos y sentimientos pueden ser compartidos sin temor a ser juzgados. Tomar el primer paso hacia la terapia se puede sentir extraño, pero es el camino a una vida más plena, lo cual requiere valentía. With the application of cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused brief therapy methods as well as other individual techniques that match your individual needs, we can work towards alleviating how you feel and create insights into your unique situation. Con la aplicación de la terapia cognitiva conductual, centrada en el cliente, técnicas de motivación y con métodos de solventación de problemas, además de estrategias que pueden ser adaptadas a tus necesidades individuales, podemos colaborar para aliviar tus sentimientos y desarrollar diferentes perspectivas hacia tu situación, la cual es única e individual.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Both my personal experience of coming out of daily anxiety, and decades of supporting clients who were able to do the same, leads me to be confident in working with new clients who want change in their lives. I have a passion especially for those who have experienced destructive or abusive relationships in their family, intimate relationships or even within a religious organization. Healing, peace and joy are possible.
Available
Authentic
Warm
Intelligent
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+5
Hi! I am glad you're here! I am Heather and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor working with clients located in Ohio. I have 5 years of experience working with individuals that struggle with mood disorders, trauma, attachment wounds, anxiety, and more. I use a variety of modalities in my practice to find what best works with each client. I have been trained in EMDR which helps to desensitize and reprocess trauma. I have also completed trainings and use attachment theory, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Direct
Solution oriented
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Hello, I'm Charles. With 24 years of professional experience, I am dedicated to helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, and depression. My approach is rooted in the belief that you are the expert of your own story, and together, we can harness your strengths to overcome the challenges you face. I am here to support and empower you every step of the way. I hold a Master of Arts in Community Counseling and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, both from Kent State University. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I have specialized training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. My extensive background includes working with individuals, families, and groups, addressing a wide range of mental health issues such as PTSD, addiction, ADHD, and more. In my private practice, I focus on online individual and couples therapy, emphasizing stress management, emotional regulation, and trauma resolution. My previous role as a Residential Therapist at OhioGuidestone allowed me to provide comprehensive care for children and adolescents with severe emotional problems, develop treatment plans, and offer clinical supervision. Throughout my career, I have been recognized for my contributions to the field, receiving the Clinical Service Award in 2004 and multiple inductions into various Sports Halls of Fame. These accolades reflect my commitment to excellence and my passion for helping others. Outside of my professional life, I value open-mindedness and creativity, which I bring into my therapeutic practice. I believe in developing and communicating personalized plans for your growth and development, ensuring that our work together is both effective and timely. If you're ready to take the first step towards positive change, I invite you to reach out. Let's work together to create a path towards a more fulfilling and happier life.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Specialties
Addiction
ADHD
Personality Disorders
+9
Hello! My name is Kali Scott and I have been a counselor for the last 8 years with a combination of experience in mental health and substance abuse counseling. I emphasize in providing an empathetic experience to my clients by remaining open minded and supportive. My educational background includes a Bachelors Degree in Substance Abuse Counseling from the University of Cincinnati and a Masters of Education in Counseling and Human Development from Lindsey Wilson College. In addition to being independently licensed as a Professional Counselor (LPCC) and Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC), and owner of my private practice, Vision Board Therapeutics, I am a wife and mom of 3 kids.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Humorous
Warm
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.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+9
Hi there, I'm glad you're here! As a Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist, I strive to create a warm, welcoming, and nonjudgmental space where my clients can explore life's challenges at their own pace, and maybe try processing in a new way. My approach combines evidence-based counseling approaches with creativity when it fits your goals, helping you better understand yourself and move toward meaningful change.
VirtualAvailable
Frequently asked questions

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in Ohio. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.