Optum Therapists in Tennessee

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 30 verified therapists in Tennessee 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: 7/18/2025

Sean T. Lanegan

(he/him)

Sean T. Lanegan, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
Why should you choose ME, over anyone else? That is the burning question. As I sit here and try to think of all the ways to possibly distinguish myself in comparison to my peers and colleagues, one specific thing comes to mind: the exact moment that I knew I wanted to be a therapist. My life’s trials and tribulations have put me in a strangely unique position in regard to understanding and empathizing with much of what is thrown at many of us, and it is because of that, that I found strength in my weaknesses and lowest moments. Readjusting to life after deployments, after the military, after divorce and growing pains and heartache, was a monumentally transitional period of my life, and my therapist bared the brunt of my pain with compassion and grace. In my very last session, I looked him in the eyes and said: “I want to do what you’re doing. I want to help people the way that you’ve helped me. I’ve been on this side of the table – now I want to be on that side.” So, what’re my credentials, expertise, focus and treatment approaches? Credentials: MSW, LICSW (WA), LCSW (HI, TN, TX) Expertise: My background and personal experience of the military and with Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS) ensure that I have a good handling on trauma and know all too well the burdens of Veterans that come with serving your country during war, as well as in the aftermath. Beyond that, I specialize and have experience with anger management, mood disorders, thought disorders, personality disorders, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, self-esteem issues. Approaches: I clinically find myself utilizing a psychodynamic approach to therapy with my clients. I believe we are who we are today based on the many influences we had in our lives, especially in those formidable early childhood years. Oftentimes, we can find the source of your current concerns today by processing how you originally developed your core values and beliefs. These roots run deeper than we typically ever realize without therapy. If you choose to work with me, we will naturally dive deeper into what this may mean for you. The path of healing is not an easy road, nor a short one. Doing the work takes gusto, but I believe that you have it inside of you, and I believe that I am the one for the job to aid in your process and growth. I hope to hear from you soon!!! Respectfully, Sean

Sascha Smith

Sascha Smith, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
10 years of experience
Virtual
I have always had a passion to help others! I was the kind of kid who took Halloween candy to school to help kids who were crying feel better. I definitely think my innate compassion and my passion for helping others definetly comes across in my work. I combine this with my knowledge, ongoing education, and experience to give the highest quality of care to my clients! I have been a licensed professional counselor with over 7 years of experience in working with a wide range of mental health disorders. I believe this brings a level of wisdom and experience to the services I offer my clients. In order to enhance my services, I completed extra coursework and training to render high-quality and knowledgeable. Through my experiences, I have had a particularly strong background in helping women and adolescents navigate various life challenges, including academic/job-related stress, past relationship violence/ trauma, anxiety, and depression, among others. I enjoy seeing the success of my clients!

Karen Collins

(she/her)

Karen Collins, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
19 years of experience
Virtual
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.

Gayle Anderson

Gayle Anderson, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am an LPC-MHSP residing in Tennessee. I became involved in working with both teens and adults who have been abused or traumatized after seeing how much it can impact their lives. I see strengths in all of my clients and I work with them to recognize them, and how they can use their strengths to help them move forward and achieve their dreams without allowing past trauma, anxiety, abuse or other symptoms to prevent them from doing so.

Jeremy Pitzer

Jeremy Pitzer, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing in a variety of settings for 20 years. I enjoy working with clients and families to build upon skills and resilience that will serve them in their treatment journey. I have extensive experience treating trauma, mood disorders, self harm / suicidal thinking, anxiety and addiction. I believe clients can and should thrive in the therapeutic experience.

Kathy Hilbert

(she/her)

Kathy Hilbert, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LPC/MHSP
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Tennessee who has been providing individual counseling for approximately four years. I had a background in social work prior to becoming a therapist, so I have always had a passion for helping people. I help people who are eager for change and growth but may be overwhelmed by challenging emotions or experiences that keep them stuck in seemingly endless cycles. As a therapist, I hope to cultivate a relationship that facilitates change, wholeness, and health wherever you are in your journey. I want to create a space where you feel free to bring your whole self: body, mind, and spirit. I look forward to walking alongside of you as you take your first steps toward deeper levels of health and wholeness.

Shemika Whiteside

(she/her)

Shemika Whiteside, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Mrs. Whiteside has worked in various mental health settings maintaining her unwavering focus on mothers and small children. As a perinatal psychotherapist, Mrs. Whiteside works with mothers and/or families who are struggling with perinatal mental illness during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Mrs. Whiteside is currently a social work doctoral student at The University of Louisville researching the impact of perinatal mood disorders, as evidence indicates that depression and other mood disorders in parents can have a harmful impact on children, including cognitive difficulties, insecure attachment, and behavioral problems.

Robert Price

(he/him)

Robert Price, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
31 years of experience
Virtual
I have approximately 30 years of experience in virtually all clinical settings. I began my career working in a juvenile penitentiary (referred to as a 'youth development center) and after almost 6 years, left that setting and moved on to new opportunities. Along the way, I worked with group homes, foster homes, substance abuse treatment programs, and even provided treatment in a sexual offender treatment program. In 2004 I went solely into private practice and currently operate two offices. I also provided on-site services to businesses that suffer a death or other disruptive event; I have provided over 170 of these services in four states during the last several years. While you don't need any faith to see me, I also offer Christian Counseling. Finally, I am a US Army veteran and understand the challenges and needs of veterans. I operate under a practical approach that seeks to build on a person's strengths to achieve realistic, measurable goals. I utilize primarily cognitive behavioral therapy and reality therapy to help my clients achieve their goals and to live life more fully.

Kari Vincent

(she/her)

Kari Vincent, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
2 years of experience
Virtual
Hello and welcome! Are you seeking to heal from past wounds, enhance your relationship with yourself, or improve your connections with others? My work is deeply rooted in supporting clients through trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, mood disorders, and attachment styles, while also fostering healthy, fulfilling relationships. I draw on a variety of proven techniques—like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), attachment theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Gestalt therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Exposure Therapy, the Gottman Method, psycho-education, and Positive Psychology. This allows me to tailor our sessions to your unique needs and help you achieve your goals.

Angela Goins

(she/her)

Angela Goins, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed professional counselor and earned my master’s degree at the University of Tennessee. I am accepting new clients and would love to talk more about how I can help you with whatever challenges you are facing. Life can be tough but having someone who is trained to help you navigate all of life’s twists and turns is invaluable.

Gianna Thacker

Gianna Thacker, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
28 years of experience
Virtual
I have been a therapist for over 25 years with my LCSW and training from the state of Georgia and The University of Georgia. I have my license in the states of Georgia and Tennessee. I enjoy helping patients learn new ways in dealing with their current or past issues. I have trauma training as well as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness and Solution Focused Therapy training. I incorporate all of these to help people learn new coping skills and move forward in their lives.

Elias Tamene

Elias Tamene, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
15 years of experience
Virtual
I am a dedicated psychotherapist committed to helping individuals navigate life's challenges, improve emotional well-being, and foster personal growth. With a client-centered approach, I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, trauma, or life transitions, I integrate evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to empower you with the tools and insights to create lasting change and live a more fulfilling life.

Kay Collake

(she/her)

Kay Collake, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
17 years of experience
Virtual
Do you find yourself overwhelmed with the competing priorities of daily life? Stuck in unhealthy patterns such as overuse of alcohol, procrastination, or emotional eating? Are your days spent battling perfectionism and negative self-talk? Would you like to be more active socially but struggle with anxiety or feelings of low self-worth? Hi. I’m Kay. Congratulations on taking the first step toward living your best life! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Tennessee with 17 years of experience providing psychotherapy, assessment, and referral services to adults, children, and families. Additionally, I am a certified Neuropsychotherapist, specializing in the integration of neuroscience into transformative therapy. Common areas of practice include anxiety and depression management, women's issues, support with the management of chronic health conditions, minority stress, trauma, relationship difficulties, and grief/loss. It takes courage to choose a path of self-discovery and healing. But you don’t have to walk this path alone. Whether you are seeking assistance with managing an ongoing mental health issue, or are seeking solution-focused therapy to deal with a specific problem, I'm here to help

Dr. Lesa Cook

(she/her)

Dr. Lesa Cook, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Dr. Cook specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and trauma-focused care for individuals, couples, and families. She is an experienced child and family therapist with over 20 years in the field. Dr. Cook provides treatment for children, adolescents, and adults experiencing mental health challenges related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and various behavioral difficulties. As a nationally certified and rostered Trauma-Focused CBT provider, Dr. Cook is uniquely qualified to treat those affected by a childhood history of abuse and/or neglect. Other areas of specialty include personality disorders, intellectual disabilities and grief/loss therapy. Dr. Cook uses a strengths-based approach that is solution-focused and practical.

Emilio Yonta

(he/him)

Emilio Yonta, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
44 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a licensed clinical social worker in FL, AL, TN, and SC. I received my MSW degree from Barry University in Miami Shores, Miami, FL. and I have over 40 years of practice experience. I have extensive experience in community and emergency mental health, crisis intervention. I was in private practice for 21 years serving individuals, couples, families, community agencies and municipalities. While in private practice I also became a life coach and personal fitness trainer developing a unique approach to behavior and life style change. I combined my clinical experience with life coaching and personal fitness training and formed a program called Your Life in Focus. This paradigm became an extremely effective approach to help individuals make significant and sustained life-style changes. My experience, and creative approaches can have important and meaningful impact on your life.

Dr. Lisa Stillion, DSW

(she/her)

Dr. Lisa Stillion, DSW, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Dr. Lisa Stillion, is currently in private practice in Tennessee. She holds a Master of Social Work degree, Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) as well as an advanced specialty certification in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). She has 20 years of experience working in the public and private sectors with children and families experiencing attachment issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and ODD. Individual Therapy for Sustainable Healing. Individual therapy is a joint process between a therapist and client that allows the person to work through their mental health struggles in a calm, safe, and confidential setting. Also known as individual psychotherapy, this kind of treatment is a unique opportunity to work one-on-one with a therapist to develop healthy coping skills for the long term. The beauty of individual therapy is the opportunity for flexibility, as treatment plans can be easily structured around your needs and background.

Felisha Babb

Felisha Babb, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My goal is to create a nonjudgmental supportive environment while collaboratively working with my patients as team to assist them with gaining and maintaining emotional stability. I am a client centered therapist with 5 years experience in mental health counseling. I have been successful in using my expertise to understand, assist, and guide clients to learn components of emotional intelligence that they can use to assist them with meeting their behavioral health goals. I am highly accomplished in designing psycho-educational programs that empower clients with self-efficacy and the motivation to change. I am Skilled at using Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy and other therapeutic modalities to assist clients with meeting their therapeutic needs. I am Smart Recovery Certified and skilled at working with individuals who are battling addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I am hard working, motivated, team oriented, and dedicated to the field of mental health. I strongly believe in giving clients tool that they can use to gain and/or maintain safety, sobriety, and stability.

Sandra Holt

(she/her)

Sandra Holt, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Sandra Holt and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in McMinnville, Tennessee and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress and trauma using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.

Porshure Richardson

(she/her)

Porshure Richardson, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have a Bachelor's and Master's in Social Work. I enjoy speaking with clients that are managing physical and behavioral health issues in a telehealth setting. I have been in the field of Social Work since 2003. I have worked with children, youth, and adults in clinics, schools, hospital settings, and in home.

Marcia Lara

Marcia Lara, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
25 years of experience
Virtual
I have been treating clients through talk therapy for the past 25 years. I have worked with end of life issues through hospice, with children and adolescents struggling with learning and mental health issues, and most recently with adults who seek help to relieve symptoms of mood, anxiety and trauma disorders. I try to move at the clients pace and have been told that I am a good listener, and that people find relief in sharing their life stories with me.

Rebecca Gregory

Rebecca Gregory, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm Rebecca. In my more than10 years as a counselor, I have been humbled by the experiences of my clients. Choosing to seek counseling is hard. It means being vulnerable with a stranger to say, "I need help," and, "I can't fix this by myself." I would like to guide you on your journey to healing. I help my clients through the difficult and emotional process of healing relationships and overcoming the challenges of life in all its stages.

Jami Ivey

Jami Ivey, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Tennessee but also licensed in Kentucky. I received my Master's Degree from the University of Louisville. I have over 25 years of experience working clients of all ages in a variety of settings. I currently focus on helping adults and adolescents with difficulties they are struggling with, so they can be the best version of themselves.

Wendy K Bovell

(she/her)

Wendy K Bovell, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Wendy Bovell , LCSW and I have worked in the field of mental health for 30 years; 22 years as a private practitioner. I have dedicated my life and career to helping people live more fulfilling lives by becoming psychologically healthier. I have experience in inpatient settings, community mental health settings, as well as private practice. I would be honored to assist anyone to help improve their psychological well being.

Darleena R Cozzo

(she/her)

Darleena R Cozzo, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
30 years of experience
Virtual
About Darleena Cozzo , is a licensed professional counselor serving Virginia and Tennessee who has over 28 years of experience in the social services field. Darleena's style is warm and professional and, at the same time, passionate and committed to you and your relationships. Darleena focuses on personal and spiritual growth to over-come the fears, regrets, and excuses that keep us stuck, depressed, anxious and unable to ACT. Many of us have made choices based on fear instead of purpose and hope. As a result , we live lives that we never intended for ourselves. Our relationships, our families, our careers, our lifestyles are very unsatisfying, at best, and damaging and crippling at worst. This marginal existence is not what you intended; nor was it intended for you . You were meant for MORE; more gratitude, more love, more happiness, more peace. Come see me and lets beginning the Passage of Healing.

Aleana Young

(she/her)

Aleana Young, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, thank you for considering me to help you on your healing journey. I am an LCSW and I have been a mental health professional for the past 14 years. My style is eclectic and I incorporate relevant techniques from evidenced based practices, based on the individual needs of my clients. I am a holistic practitioner and focus on mind, body, and spiritual wellness. I provide transformational psychotherapy through my virtual office. In addition, I am a reiki master and have been practicing natural healing for 30 years. I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Based Therapies, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy are my main evidenced based tools.

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Tennessee rather than a city like Nashville?

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 Tennessee from Memphis to Knoxville! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Tennessee.

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 Bipolar Disorder?

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. For example, your selected specialty, Bipolar Disorder, is filtering therapists in Tennessee that work with patients with similar concerns.

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.