Optum Therapists in Ohio

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.

Hello, I am a therapist who holds a license in clinical social work (LCSW) in Indiana and Ohio (LISW). I received my Masters of Social Work (MSW) degree from Indiana University and my Masters in Clinical Bioethics from Loyola University in Chicago. I have been practicing for 25 years. I enjoy working together with individuals to help them become their best selves.

I am an LPCC-S and LCDC III specializing in working with adults who are navigating trauma, grief, anxiety, addiction, depression, various life stressors, relationship challenges, etc. I have been passionate about mental health and community behavioral health since 2014, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have built my career around supporting individuals through some of the most difficult and transformative periods of their lives. Throughout my experience, I have had the opportunity to work with people from a variety of backgrounds and with many different life experiences. I believe that every person’s story is unique, and I strive to provide a safe, supportive, and judgment-free environment where clients feel comfortable being open and honest about what they are experiencing. I approach therapy with compassion, respect, and genuine curiosity about each person I work with. My goal is to help clients better understand themselves, recognize their strengths, develop healthy coping skills, and feel empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives. I believe that seeking therapy is a sign of strength, and I am honored to walk alongside my clients as they work toward healing, growth, and a greater sense of well-being.

Hi, I am Kelly and I empower you to cultivate your growth and well-being! Don't you wish you had someone to listen and help you make sense of the overwhelming thoughts, feelings, and stressors in your life, and come up with a plan of action that will help you improve your mental health? If so, we may be a good fit to work together. My goal is to be that person and offer you targeted time and space to invest in your mental health and well-being.

Threatening or painful events can change the way we see the world and ourselves. I help clients who are feeling distressed by their past as they are trying to live their daily lives. I enjoy working with clients who need a listener to sit with them after a difficult time, and gently navigate a path to better well-being. I believe that there are many ways to heal including the use of EMDR. Never heard of it? That's okay. I'm very approachable and won't judge you. You are not alone. Let's talk!

Hi, I’m Janai, a Licensed Independent Social Worker passionate about providing culturally responsive, trauma-informed therapy for adults from diverse backgrounds. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, acculturation stress, identity-related challenges, domestic violence, and major life transitions. My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and client-centered. I utilize evidence-based practices including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, mindfulness-based techniques, and Solution-Focused Therapy while tailoring treatment to each client’s unique experiences, values, and goals. I also incorporate multicultural and non-Western approaches when appropriate to ensure clients feel seen, respected, and understood. I strive to create a safe and supportive space where clients can process challenges, build coping skills, strengthen resilience, and move toward healing and personal growth at their own pace.

With over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health, I am a Clinical Social Worker dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families on their path toward healing and personal growth. I believe that each person brings their own unique strengths to therapy, and I use a strengths-based approach to help clients build on what’s already working while gently addressing the areas where they may feel stuck or overwhelmed. My practice is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves to be heard, supported, and treated with compassion. I strive to create a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental space where clients can feel safe being themselves—whether they are navigating life transitions, managing anxiety or depression, healing from trauma, or working through relationship challenges. Over the years, I’ve found that no single approach fits every person or situation. That’s why I draw from a wide range of therapeutic modalities to tailor treatment to the individual needs and goals of each client. My integrative style allows me to meet clients wherever they are in their journey, whether they’re seeking short-term support or longer-term work. Above all, I consider it a privilege to walk alongside my clients as they explore, heal, and grow. My goal is to foster a trusting, collaborative relationship where clients feel empowered to make meaningful changes and create the lives they want for themselves and their loved ones.

Karen Collins is a psychotherapist in private practice in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. She is originally from Ohio and graduated from The Ohio State University. She has worked at inpatient adult and adolescent psychiatric hospitals in Ohio for 8 years along with managing her private therapy practice and teaching at The Ohio State University. Then in 2012, she moved to Jupiter, FL where she began working at the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center for 10 years. Her career at the WPB VA Medical Center offered her the opportunity to work with Veterans in the following capacities over that 10 year period; as a Mental Health Therapist, Program Manager of Post Deployment Clinic and the Care Giver Support Program, Supervisor of Homeless Programs and Supervisor over programs serving Veterans with serious mental health conditions. In addition to working at the WPB VA Medical Center, she had a private practice in Jupiter, FL. In March of 2022, she left the WPB VA Medical Center in February to focus completely on her private practice which moved with her from Jupiter to Palm Beach Gardens, FL. She has published two books, one on relationships and another on managing depression. She has written a couples interactive co-journal and has published multiple articles on relationships, depression, improving well-being, thriving during and after a serious health issue and reducing acute stress response. She has a YouTube Channel, “Therapy with Karen Collins” where she posts peaceful places, guided meditations, provoking ideas to consider and a segment on managing acute stress response and improving overall well-being to teach how to prevent over-responding to stressors. She has provided therapy virtually for over 12 years.

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.

I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Kent State University. I take a holistic, person-centered approach to therapy, focusing on the whole individual—mind, body, and spirit. My goal is to create a safe, empathetic space where we can work together to address challenges, foster personal growth, and build lasting resilience. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, stress, or life transitions, I’m here to support you in a way that honors your unique journey and values.

I became a counselor because I believe the pieces of our individual stories often become so tangled that it takes someone else to help us sort out and realign our lives. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a Supervision designation (LPCC-S). I have been in private practice for over a decade, primarily helping clients who are struggling with eating disorders and disordered eating. I also work with individuals struggling with other issues including grief, trauma, and anxiety.

Hi, I’m Lorrin. I'm here to help empower you to feel more like yourself. My clients present with a variety of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, adjustment concerns, relationship problems, and communication issues. I take an eclectic approach to therapy by using techniques from several treatment modalities to help you heal from trauma, find balance, and discover skills to help cope with a variety of struggles. I work with my clients from a systemic point of view. I specialize in helping clients with communication and relationship issues learn to function more cohesively within their relationships through the development of clear boundaries. We will work as a team to help you reprocess past trauma, restructure unhealthy thought processes, and make connections that help you function better. My job is to assist you in forming adaptive coping skills, healthy thinking styles, effective communication, clear boundaries, as well as a sense of self-compassion and empowerment. I’m glad you’re here!

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.

Welcome to my practice. I am dedicated to creating a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can explore challenges, build on your strengths, and work toward meaningful change. My approach is collaborative and solution-focused — I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and together we’ll identify practical steps to help you reach your goals. Whether you’re navigating stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, or personal growth, my goal is to help you find clarity, resilience, and a sense of balance.

Hello There! I’m Michelle, I’m passionate about helping people reconnect with their own strength and inner wisdom. So often the answers are already within you, and therapy allows the space to reflect, gain clarity, and build confidence to trust yourself again. Seeing this happen is why I am so passionate about mental health. My style is warm, collaborative, and authentic. I believe therapy should be a space where you feel both supported and empowered. Together, we’ll explore patterns that may be keeping you stuck, build emotional resilience, and help you feel more grounded, confident, and aligned with the life you want to live.

I'm a dedicated professional with over 15 years of experience in the behavioral health field. My goal is to empower individuals to embrace their authentic selves and find comfort in their daily lives. I insist on personalizing my interventions to suit each individual's needs. I work mostly with young adults and adults (ages 18+). I believe that most of us would benefit from therapy at most points throughout our lives. We are social beings by nature and are simply not meant to struggle alone. We are our own worst critics so it takes an outside perspective of a loved one or a professional to help us recognize the strength amid chaos.

Hi, I’m Demetria Agharese, and I help people who are tired of feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or disconnected from themselves find their way forward. My ideal clients are adults who may look like they have it all together on the outside but are quietly struggling on the inside. You may be the person everyone depends on while privately battling anxiety, intrusive thoughts, OCD, self-doubt, burnout, relationship difficulties, or the pressure to constantly “hold it all together.” Maybe your mind won’t shut off. You overthink every decision, question your feelings, replay conversations, worry about what might happen, or feel trapped by thoughts you wish you could turn off. Maybe you’re navigating a breakup, divorce, major life transition, low self-esteem, or simply wondering, “How did I lose myself?” You don’t have to continue living that way. I offer a warm, genuine, culturally responsive, and judgment-free space where you can put down the weight you’ve been carrying and talk openly about what’s really happening. I don’t believe therapy should feel like sitting across from someone who simply checks boxes on a diagnosis list. I believe you deserve to feel heard, understood, challenged when needed, and supported throughout the process. Using evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ERP, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, behavioral strategies, and mindfulness, I help clients break unhelpful cycles, face fears, manage difficult emotions, build confidence, establish healthier boundaries, and become less controlled by anxiety and uncertainty. Most importantly, therapy with me is collaborative. I’m not here to tell you who you should be. I’m here to help you discover who you are, understand what matters to you, and develop the confidence to live accordingly. If you’re ready to stop simply surviving and start creating a life that feels more peaceful, authentic, confident, and meaningful, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

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.

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.

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.

Over the years, I've worked across diverse community settings, including Home-Based Services, hospitals, outpatient, PHP, residential, and virtual environments. My experience spans working with children, teens, adults, and older adults (geriatric population) facing challenges such as homelessness, alcohol and drug addiction, COVID-19, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, depression, and more. I understand that you may be going through a difficult time. Life brings many challenges that can cause one to feel anxiety, stress, worry, and doubt. Does this sound like you? I want you to know that I can empower you with the tools of success.

My name is Alahya Clayborn, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and I specialize in systemic and strategic family therapy models. My counseling philosophy is grounded in the belief that healing occurs through our attachment and interactions and by transforming the systems around us. With expertise in relationships, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and depression, I focus on creating meaningful and lasting change. I am dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate their challenges and achieve their fullest potential.

Hello, I am an independently licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Ohio with the ability to provide supervision (MSSA, LISW-S). I earned my Master of Science in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University. I have over 20 years of clinical experience. I have worked with clients of all ages and backgrounds. I specialize in working with clients experiencing Depression, Anxiety and Trauma.

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.

As a social worker therapist grounded in mindfulness theory, my dream client embodies a spirit of openness and motivation for change. This individual recognizes the challenges that come with personal growth but approaches therapy with a willingness to explore and confront these difficulties. They appreciate the journey of self-discovery and are eager to gain insights that can lead to meaningful transformation in their life. In our sessions, I envision a collaborative environment where they feel safe to express their thoughts and emotions. They understand that progress may not always be linear, yet they remain committed to the process. This client values the therapeutic relationship and seeks guidance to cultivate greater self-awareness, resilience, and mindfulness in their daily life. What I cherish most about this ideal client is their ability to reflect on their experiences and actively engage in their healing journey. They inspire me with their courage to face discomfort and their desire to learn and grow. Together, we would explore various mindfulness practices and therapeutic techniques, fostering a deep connection that empowers them to embrace change with compassion and patience. Ultimately, my dream client is someone who is not only motivated to seek help but also appreciates the support and insight I can offer. In this partnership, we would work hand in hand to navigate the complexities of their experiences, celebrating each step toward a more fulfilled and mindful existence. This collaborative spirit of growth and understanding is what makes the therapeutic journey profoundly rewarding for both of us.