Optum Therapists in Ohio

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 220 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: 4/10/2026

Authentic
Direct
Open-minded
Empowering
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Military/Veterans
Trauma and PTSD
I am a US Air Force veteran Clinical Social Worker. I served from 2015 to 2024 before voluntarily separating. During my USAF time I treated active duty members, their dependents, and veterans. I worked primarily in outpatient care providing 1 on 1 in person therapy, however would frequently be called to conduct emergency assessments for high risk cases involving suicide, homicide, domestic violence, and/or child abuse. I also spent several years leading a team in conducting substance abuse treatment as well as prevention programs. Through these experiences I have treated a wide range of mental health issues to include general stress/adjustment disorder to depression/anxiety/PTSD/grief.
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Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic
Intelligent
Empowering
Humorous
Open-minded

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Domestic Violence
+3
Hi: My name is Barbara Doll. I have over 25 years of experience in therapy and mediation. I love to meet new clients and strive to make my sessions comfortable and, of course, without judgement. I want my sessions to be a safe, comfortable, peaceful place for clients to be able to have a safe place for people to express feelings and perhaps even identify feelings. I have a vast experience in divorce, separation and parenting issues, Domestic Abuse Issues, Depression and Anxiety Grief issues. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Brief Therapy, Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing as therapy interventions. If you are unsure about those interventions I will be happy to take time to explain them to you. Making an appointment for therapy takes a lot of courage and I congratulate you for taking this big step. I want my clients to experience a safe, non-judgemental, peaceful place where clients can talk about their history, express their feelings and talk about their dreams and hopes for the future and discover what may be standing in the way to achieve those hopes and dreams.
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Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Older Adults
+5
Hello, I'm Brenda Do you feel overwhelmed by stress in your job, family, and social obligations? Do sometimes you feel like you are trying to make everyone else happy and/or trying to solve other peoples problems, but never have anyone to discuss your problems with? I can help. As a busy, career-driven mom, and daughter. I can relate to the stress of everyday life when you are trying to prioritize everyone else, always being the one that everyone comes to for help. And sometimes you feel overwhelmed yourself and need someone to talk to. I like a lot of people have been dealing with the same issues such as depression and anxiety. I have been learning, trained and educated over the years to help others with issue's such as these. I hold a LPCC license (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor) with 30 years of experience in doing private practice seeing individuals exeriencing stress in their everyday lives. My approach is simple using CBT and help you take back control of your happiness. We would discuss what you can do daily to help reduce and/or cope with stressors in your life.
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Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Humorous
Open-minded
Direct
Holistic

Specialties

Anxiety
Chronic Illness
Life Transitions
+10
***Please note that my 3pm and later appts are limited. **** 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 8 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.
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Warm
Authentic
Direct
Open-minded
Empowering
Humorous
Solution oriented
Intelligent

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+6
Katrina Noble Johnson is a licensed independent clinical social worker and chemical dependency counselor with over 25 years of experience. She holds a Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Cincinnati. Katrina provides specialized mental health and addiction treatment to individuals, children, families, and diverse populations, including military personnel, the homeless, and the elderly. Additionally, she has volunteered for various community and religious organizations in her area.
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Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Direct
Intelligent
Challenging
Humorous

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.
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Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Open-minded
Empowering
Direct
Humorous
Challenging
Intelligent
Holistic
Open-Minded

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Are you tired of being judged for not doing things the “normal” way? Has the world attempted to dim your light? Have you listened to lies of others and yourself that has led you down a path of shame and guilt? If you are looking for a space that is fun, nonjudgmental, the ability to be yourself then come see me as I take pride in being apart of others’ journey. I wont lie and say that change is easy, change is messy, but I am willing to be messy with you.
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Warm
Authentic
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Direct
Empowering
Solution oriented
Open-minded
Open-Minded
Challenging

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+18
Hi there, I go by Michele. Life can be difficult at times. You might feel like it can never get better and like you have to get through it on your own. My job is to help you get through these difficult times and to give you the skills you need to feel empowered to get through any obstacle that comes your way. I have years of expereience helping people from all walks of life find their idea of happiness and making it a reality. I work hard at being flexible and providing you with the kind of help that you want and need. Whether you're dealing with current or past issues, or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!
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Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Empowering
Humorous
Solution oriented
Holistic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Health/Medical Issues
+10
Hi there:) My name is Lauren. I’ve been providing therapy for about 11 years now. I have experience with just about every population from school age to the elder years. I believe strongly in the mind/body connection and the utilization of a holistic, client centered approach to address both physical and mental health as they both work in conjunction to promote quality of life. I am passionate about helping others learn the skills they need in order to evolve into the best version of themselves.
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Authentic
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Direct
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+10
I believe therapy should feel like a safe, affirming space where you can be your authentic self without judgement. I specialize in navigating burnout, relationships, anxiety, or life transitions. My approach is person-centered and strengths-based, which means I'll meet you where you are and support you in meeting your goals. Together, we'll focus on your strengths, explore what's meaningful to you, and help you move forward feeling more grounded and empowered. I use CBT to teach people to challenge your negative thought patterns and change their responses. It is an effective therapy for many mental health conditions as well as managing difficult life experiences.
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Warm
Open-minded
Authentic
Humorous
Solution oriented
Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+10
I am Brenda Pinson, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervisory Endorsement (LPCC-S) in Ohio, with over 15 years of experience. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and discover new strengths. My Approach: I offer a person-centered, collaborative approach tailored to your unique needs. Using positive psychology, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT/Tapping), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I help you uncover solutions and develop skills at your own pace. Think of me as your co-pilot on this journey—offering direction, empathy, and support. Areas of Expertise: I work with elders, adults, and teens, addressing issues such as adjustment, anger management, anxiety, depression, grief, stress, relaxation, women’s issues, and life transitions. My experience includes crisis intervention, anger management groups, and domestic violence offender groups. What to Expect: My goal is to create a welcoming, empowering environment where you feel supported and understood. Together, we’ll work to help you branch out, find balance, and move forward with confidence.
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Authentic
Open-minded
Empowering
Warm
Humorous
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Direct
Open-Minded
Challenging

Specialties

Addiction
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
I have had the privilege of working with with a broad range of clients for over 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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Warm
Authentic
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Empowering
Direct
Challenging

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Beginning therapy is a courageous step, and I don’t take that for granted. I'm here to help ensure your journey is meaningful and personalized. My work focuses on supporting individuals through trauma, life transitions, as well as challenges related to anxiety, depression, and grief. I use a collaborative, strengths-based, client-centered approach, customizing each session to fit your specific needs and goals. You’ll find a safe, supportive space where you can truly be yourself whenever you are ready to begin.
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Often rebooked

Open-minded
Warm
Challenging
Solution oriented

Specialties

Men's Issues
Mood Disorders
Spirituality
+10
My name is Jeffrey, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan, and a Licensed Social Worker and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio. I have also been an ordained Lutheran pastor since 1989. My professional career began as an Associate Pastor in a Lutheran church in northwest Ohio, where I focused on youth ministry, Christian Education, and pastoral counseling. I entered Social Work in 1995 when I began work as a Family Worker in a residential facility for hard to place juvenile offenders, and then worked in a few outpatient counseling agencies providing mental health and substance use disorder services. I have experience working with people of all ages on general mental health issues, such as managing depression and anxiety, and have specialized in the areas of PTSD recovery and domestic violence and sexual abuse victims and offenders. Throughout my counseling career, I have maintained activity in ministry. I was trained in Clinical Pastoral Counseling and also have had training as a Spiritual Director. My counseling approach is generally non-directive, using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing in a Solution Focused, Client Centered frame work. I can incorporate spirituality as much or as little as the client desires, from not referencing spirituality at all to fully engaging the spiritual dimension of life. As a caring, empathetic listener, people find it easy to talk with me and be open about what needs attention in their lives. I look forward to working with you!
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Warm
Authentic
Direct
Solution oriented
Open-minded
Empowering
Holistic
Humorous
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+7
Hi, I'm Rachel—a licensed therapist available to meet with clients in both Arizona and Ohio, here to support you through whatever life is throwing your way. I work with adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, ADHD, and more.My approach is warm, non-judgmental, and grounded in the belief that therapy should be a space where you feel safe, seen, and empowered.
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Warm
Authentic
Humorous
Open-minded
Direct
Intelligent
Empowering
Solution oriented
Open-Minded

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+3
Hello! I'm a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) based in Ohio. I received my Master's in Social Work from Ohio University and have been practicing for 6 years. I've helped individuals 5 to 65 years of age struggling with things such as various mood disorders, anxiety, and addiction become the best versions of themselves. Being trained as a Social Worker, I strongly believe that people should be treated with respect and care, regardless of their life circumstances. I am intentional when working with clients to partner with them in setting goals, changing behaviors, and addressing symptoms to help empower and encourage them to be the version of themselves they want to be.
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Warm
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Authentic
Intelligent
Empowering
Humorous
Direct
Holistic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+9
My name is Amber. I am a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of Ohio. My role is to empower you on this journey of self-actualization. I bring authenticity, warmth, and a solution-oriented approach. We will be working side by side to identify your goals, values, and strengths. From there, we will process past experiences to help you move on to becoming your best self. I have been helping clients achieve their goals for the past several years. These clients range from the age of one-year-old to over fifty-years-old. About 60% of my clients are 12 and under. In working with younger children, I have had the most success using telehealth when parents are present to monitor, arrange a predictable environment, and assist with any technical issues. In working with younger children, the parents’ role is vital. I work as a team with parents and caregivers to build a healthy relationship and find the appropriate strengths-based parenting strategies for the child. Recommended parenting techniques are largely based on the Conscious Discipline model which encourages mindful parenting. With younger children, the parents’ cooperation is imperative to reach desired behavioral goals. I also draw from the approaches outlined in Working with Challenging Youth by Brent Richardson, Ed.D.
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Authentic
Open-minded
Warm
Humorous
Empowering
Intelligent
Direct
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+6
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over a decade of experience helping adolescents and adults navigate anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. I have completed my PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, which allows me to integrate advanced clinical training, research-informed practice, and real-world therapeutic experience. My work is grounded in evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and person-centered counseling. I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients can build resilience, gain clarity, and make meaningful, lasting change. ---------------------------------------- 📌 Cash Pay / Self-Pay Therapy Option 📌 Self-pay may be a good fit if you prefer: • More privacy (not billed to insurance) • More flexibility in session focus/frequency • No insurance restrictions (limits/authorizations) 📌 Self-Pay Rates: • Intake/Diagnostic Evaluation: $220 • 53-min session: $185 • 45-min session: $150 • 30-min session: $135 📌 Insurance note: Self-pay may qualify for out-of-network reimbursement depending on your plan (not guaranteed). Clients are responsible for verifying OON benefits. If I’m in-network and you choose self-pay, insurance reimbursement is not typical.
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Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented
Direct
Warm
Intelligent
Open-minded
Humorous
Challenging
Holistic
Solution oriented

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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Authentic
Empowering
Warm
Solution oriented
Humorous
Intelligent
Direct
Open-Minded
Holistic
Solution oriented
Open-minded

Specialties

Coping Skills
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+5
Have you experienced trauma, abuse, relationship challenges or loss? Do you struggle with codependency? Do you have difficulty setting healthy boundaries? Do you want to build self-esteem and confidence? Have your attempts to create meaningful changes in your life been met, repeatedly with short term-success? Are you losing hope with the prospect of a prosperous meaningful future? Hi! My name is Cassie, and I'm a Christian, faith-based therapist licensed and located in the sunny (and sometimes rainy!) state of Florida. The questions posed above speak to challenges many of us are regularly faced with, but may find it difficult to speak about. Instead, we may find ourselves harboring feeling of shame and guilt which blocks us from pursuing and receiving the help we need. Well, here’s the good news! Therapy with me is conducted within a safe, judgment-free space, where I provide opportunities for you to face those challenges and express those feelings. . I believe in the power of faith to guide healing, and I am honored to walk alongside individuals who desire therapy that aligns with their beliefs. At each stage of treatment, we’ll collaborate to assess and engage in a way which best fits you. With over six (6) years of professional experience, and a host of treatment methods to rely on, you can rest assured in my ability to meet you uniquely in your place of need. Ultimately, my desire is to help you reach a place of freedom and peace, where you can begin experiencing incremental yet impactful improvements to your overall wellbeing so your life and relationships can bear the fruit they were always meant to.
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Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Humorous
Open-minded
Empowering
Holistic
Direct

Specialties

Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
+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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Authentic
Warm
Humorous
Solution oriented
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Depression
Grief
Self Esteem
+7
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina, Ohio, and Alabama, with a Master's degree from the Joint Program at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and North Carolina A&T State University. As a biracial and bicultural individual of White and Native American heritage (an enrolled member of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina), I bring a unique perspective to my work. I have 15 years of experience in mental health, having served in various community roles, and I also volunteer with my local Native American organization. I specialize in supporting adults dealing with anxiety, depression, family conflict, stress, motivation, and self-esteem. With my background, I also focus on providing care for Indigenous individuals, as well as those who are bicultural or biracial. I am experienced in working with people navigating grief, loss, and caregiver stress. My approach centers on creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can openly share their thoughts and feelings. I am committed to supporting individuals who identify as bicultural, BIPOC, QTBIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ability-diverse, and all those who have been historically marginalized or minoritized.
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Authentic
Humorous
Direct
Warm
Intelligent
Empowering
Open-minded
Solution oriented
Challenging

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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Humorous
Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Direct
Open-minded
Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
School Issues
+8
Hi! I'm a Licensed Independent Social Worker-Supervisor based in Ohio. I received my Master's degree from Walden University and my Bachelor's degree from Mount Vernon Nazarene University. I have been working in the field of social work for 30+ years. I help adolescents and young adults struggling with a variety of different issues like self-esteem, anxiety, independent living, coping skills, family issues and life transitions. An interesting thing about me is that I have worked with a family who were living as Vampires, no judgement, just interesting! *Please note that, at this time, I am not accepting clients who are only in need of an evaluation or clients who are mandated by the court for therapeutic services.
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Authentic
Direct
Humorous
Warm
Open-minded
Empowering
Solution oriented

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.
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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 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.

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 happens during the first therapy 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.