Optum Therapists in Tennessee

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 90 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: 7/17/2025

Norman Shaffer

(he/him)

Norman Shaffer, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings, My name is Norman Shaffer and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Tennessee. I have been practicing as a social worker for over a decade now. I like working with adults who are actively seeking a positive change in their life. I like to partner with clients and guide them towards better outcomes and a healthier balance in life.

Amanda Mills

(she/her)

Amanda Mills, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
8 years of experience
Virtual
Amanda is a licensed professional counselor and a mental health service provider in the states of Tennessee and Alabama. She is also a Nationally Certified Counselor and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Amanda is a graduate of Middle Tennessee State University where she earned dual bachelor’s degrees in psychology and sociology, followed by a Master’s degree in Professional Counseling. She has extensive experience in various mental health and substance abuse treatment settings, including inpatient psychiatric settings and community mental health programs. Amanda focuses on creating a safe space where individuals, couples, and families can feel safe, heard, and validated. She utilizes a person-centered approach while working collaboratively to build goals for treatment. She uses a variety of therapeutic modalities when working with her clients, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Amanda may also utilize skill development and psychoeducation as needed. In her free time, Amanda loves reading, cooking, spending time with animals (especially her four dogs: three Boston Terriers; Winston, Hazel, and Louise; and one Miniature Schnauzer; Archie), going on new adventures, and bringing joy wherever she can.

Lee Owen

(he/him)

Lee Owen, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Lee Owen, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) providing virtual therapy in Tennessee. My focus is serving young adults and adults navigating life transitions. I believe that the emotions we are most tempted to run away from– fear, grief, anger– exist to tell us about the kind of life we want. I help clients learn to identify and listen to their emotions rather than being overwhelmed or shut down. I use evidence-based approaches to treat depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, and eating disorders. We will also work together to increase mindfulness and self-compassion and strengthen the relationships in your life.

Lea Hunter

Lea Hunter, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LPC/MHSP
25 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Mental Health Clinician in Georgia, Tennessee, and Florida. I have been practicing for more than 20 years using an integrated style of theories in counseling (CBT, Mindfulness, Trauma Focused, Solution Focused, Narrative, and Family Systems Theory). I believe the intervention should match the client verses "one size fits all." I see adults, couples, and adolescents via Telehealth.

Tyler Clemmons

Tyler Clemmons, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
I work with adults who are struggling with effects of trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, anger, and other issues. I want to provide a safe and supportive space for you to grow as you work toward your goals. Whatever situation you find yourself facing, you have value and worth. As a therapist, I have practiced in medical, in-home, and outpatient settings. Feel free to reach out with any questions.

Katherine Combs

Katherine Combs, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
12 years of experience
Virtual
I am licensed to work with those in the state of Tennessee, USA. I have over 20 years experience working in the mental health field, 12 of those years specifically working as a therapist. My experience consists of helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, mood disorders, anxiety, & depression. I also have taught parenting classes, which allowed me to help parents in their relationship with their children. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). While I have been trained in various therapy techniques, I have found most relation in the Solution Focused umbrella utilizing Narrative therapy. Solution Focused therapy helps people recognize how to work towards what they want- including how Narrative therapy sees each person’s storyline from their past, separating themselves from their problem (instead of living stuck), and recognizing how they want their story to continue. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths to overcome your challenges. Different situations can take place without our ability to feel prepared. You can take time for yourself and begin processing, in a safe and secure manner, through teletherapy services.

Ben Smith

Ben Smith, LP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LP
12 years of experience
Virtual
Are you feeling stuck and unsure of how to get past symptoms of anxiety, depression or past trauma? It's common to experience mental health-related challenges in life and to get stuck at times. We're not born with a built-in understanding of how to be psychologically healthy, so sometimes it's a good idea to get a little guidance from an unbiased professional. My ideal client is motivated to understand themselves better and to make the necessary adjustments to improve their quality of life.

Tonya Shanks

(she/her)

Tonya Shanks, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
3 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and received my Masters from Aurora University. I have specialized training in EMDR and TF-CBT and have spent the last 19 years of my career as a social worker and therapist working with all age groups. I provide a safe, supportive space for children, adolescents, and adults to process their experiences and develop healthy coping strategies.

Sheila Stoner

(she/her)

Sheila Stoner, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
11 years of experience
Virtual
I am licensed in Tennessee with 10+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in assessing clients with coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, anger management, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients 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 them in that process.

Jennifer Roney

Jennifer Roney, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LPC/MHSP
12 years of experience
Virtual
Do you struggle with feeling “good enough”? Are you sick of feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and stressed? Do you feel like some days you are just going through the motions or barely have your head above water? I specialize in helping people understand themselves better so that they can actively work towards healing. I am passionate about helping individuals that struggle with anxiety, traumatic events, perfectionism, overthinking, fear, life transitions, and faith based concerns.

Chris Campbell

Chris Campbell, LMFT - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
33 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in the states of Texas and Tennessee with 30 years of counseling and ministry experience. I began as a minister of the Gospel in the Southern Baptist tradition in 1993 working with the homeless to overcome the struggles of addiction and hopelessness in North Carolina and Tennessee. From there, I became a case manager in a rural oupatient behavioral health clinic helping the chronically mentally ill live independently outside of the institutional settings. As my family of five children grew, my wife encouraged me to join the military in 2007 and for the next 13 years we served alongside our Soldiers and their Families as a chaplain. There, I learned through experience how to work through the stress of multiple transitions, the unyeilding demands for time and energy, and the unjust nature of toxic environments. I learned how to support those who wanted to strengthen themselves and their relationships in these environments and to ultimately be at peace with who they are and who they want to be. As I have matured in my training and become licensed in marriage and family therapy, I have found that I now specialize in using Solution Focused therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help individuals identify their strengths and the beliefs that are guiding their behavior. With this knowledge, people can begin to choose who they want to be.

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.

Annie Handley

(she/her)

Annie Handley, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
16 years of experience
Virtual
Does this sound familiar- today is the day! Today is the day that you are finally going to get organized, stop contacting your toxic ex or start that self care routine you've been thinking about for months. And you start off great but find it hard to keep those new behaviors going. Your mental résistance enters and you feel stuck. Stuck in damaging behaviors and problematic patterns. And the pattern starts again. So here's what I've learned along the way: 1. Transformation is not linear. 2. Transformation is a daily event. 3. You are your own best healer. I am here to help you on your path of transformation and healing. My goal is to create a safe space for you to be authentically you. You are the expert on your life and I am here to help you expand on your strengths as well as hold you accountable for reaching your goals. I have been a licensed Social Worker since 2007 and am both a certified grief counselor and an ADHD services professional. Are you ready to do the work? Consistent, small, daily choices can help you get from where you are to where you want to be. And I am here to help you in that process. I am currently offering telehealth in KS, MO, NC and TN. Reach out to take that first step. We can get there together.

Hannah Keefer

(she/her)

Hannah Keefer, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Are you tired of feeling stuck in relationships, struggling with self-doubt, or trying to overcome addiction? Do you find yourself worrying about the future or feeling like you're just going through the motions? Many people struggle with these issues, and it's okay to ask for help. I help clients navigate the complexities of self-worth, emotional health, and financial well-being, with a focus on empowerment, authenticity, and creating a life that aligns with what matters to you. Whether you’re feeling weighed down by past experiences or struggling to make sense of who you are, I’m here to guide you toward a path that reflects your values and passions.

Susan Picart

(she/her)

Susan Picart, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
Is your worrying, depression, or anger taking over your life? Is the loss of a loved one too painful to cope? Are you trying to find a solution to a damaged marriage or relationship? Is it difficult to stay calm and composed when angry? Seeing a professional is one of the best decisions you can ever make for yourself. I'm not here to issue judgement, but to focus on getting you back to a happier and more fulfilled life. I can help you cope but I can also help you conquer the overwhelming stressors in your life. My job is simple. It's to help you get back to living your BEST life. I understand that anger, depression, anxiety, grief, and broken relationships can derail even the strongest person. It's not easy, but it's possible! My current practice is an extension of my work in Toronto, Memphis, Cincinnati, and New York. Since 1999 I have worked with individuals, couples, children and families, suffering from depression, anxiety, anger, grief, shame, and trauma. Let's get you back to living your best life.

Trina Middleton

(she/her)

Trina Middleton, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have my Masters in Social Work from University of Texas at Arlington. I have worked in the field of mental health and as a therapist for 30 years. I am licensed in Arkansas and Tennessee. I work with adults of all ages and backgrounds who are experiencing difficulties such as difficulty coping, low self esteem, anxiety, grief and loss, and stress due to life transitions. I believe that reaching out to a therapist is a big step. I am here to help you feel comfortable and connected in your therapy journey and to provide an environment where you can work on your goals without feeling judged.

Katherine Webb

(she/her)

Katherine Webb, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
Has intro video
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Katherine spent the majority of her therapeutic career in a community based setting meeting with youths impacted by substance abuse, alcoholism, mental health and co occurring disorders within their homes and community’s. Katherine has worked with these youth and their families to help mend the ties that substance use has broken. Before starting her own practice, Katherine was a school social worker for youth and young adults with emotional, cognitive and other health impairments.

Jeanie Warren

(she/her)

Jeanie Warren, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
Hello. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Tennessee. I received my Masters from Union University in West Tennessee. I have completed my doctoral degree in behavioral health from Freed Hardeman University. My training as a social worker as well as my advanced degree in behavioral health gives me broad scope of skills to meet patient’s needs. My career path has allowed for me to treat lifespan of patients.

Lauren Milligan

(she/her)

Lauren Milligan, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
Hi and welcome. My name is Lauren and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have been working in the social work and mental health space in some capacity for almost 15 years. I aim to provide a welcoming environment that creates the space for working toward and supporting your individual goals. I specialize in helping individuals who are facing issues such as anxiety, depression, obesity, substance abuse, life transitions and adjustments, as well as aging. My therapeutic approach is always client-centered, is eclectic in nature, and is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy. My overarching goal is to support my clients in identifying their strengths and gaining insight into their lives to ultimately live with greater peace and satisfaction.

Deandra Calvin

Deandra Calvin, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
3 years of experience
Virtual
I am a native Memphian who enjoys spending time with my husband and two daughters. My career as a counselor began in the school setting where I served as a middle school counselor. I earned the nickname of "adolescent whisperer" from making deep and meaningful connections with teens and their families. I wanted to extend my services beyond the school setting, thus I earned the mental health license that allows me to practice outside of the school setting as well. I counsel from the belief that we are all imperfect beings working to navigate life’s challenges. I love to motivate clients to become the best version of themselves while attentively acknowledging their current situation without judgment.

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.

Sarah Hirsch

Sarah Hirsch, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Sarah Hirsch and I'm a licensed psychotherapist (LPC) in Tennessee & Michigan. I've been working in behavioral health for over 30 years. I'm also a Duke Integrative Medicine Certified Health & Wellness Coach. I am intentional, considerate, and sensitive to the unique stories, and backgrounds of each client I connect with during the therapeutic process. We will work together collaboratively in a therapeutic partnership. I'll hold a space that is open and without judgment, encouraging the authenticity of your thoughts and feelings to identify effective individualized therapeutic solutions and tools that help foster greater insight, perspective, and ensure your success in making positive, transformational life changes. Therapeutic telehealth services are rendered from a whole-person perspective which honors the strengths and uniqueness of each individual's needs using an integrated, biopsychosocial approach that explores the psychological interconnections between mind, behavior, and health, to promote an increased quality of life and wellness in mind, body, and spirit. I look forward to meeting you!

Julisa Holmes

(she/her)

Julisa Holmes, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
Has intro video
LPC/MHSP
2 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I’m Julisa. I am a masters level Licensed Professional Counselor, practicing remotely in Rhode Island and Pennsylvania. As a Philadelphia native and person of color, I am driven by my desire to provide healthy representation of breaking generational trauma. I aim to get rid of stigmas related to seeking professional help. I am passionate about using my 11 years of experience to help clients feel genuinely seen, without judgement. I work with adult individuals and couples on various issues including anxiety, depression, PTSD, bi-polar disorders, relationship concerns, body positivity, LGBTQIA+ concerns, women's issues, and life transitions.

Chandra Malamud

(she/her)

Chandra Malamud, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
16 years of experience
Virtual
Are you struggling with a major transition? Life can certainly throw us some curve balls. Although you may feel overwhelmed or discouraged, things can get better. I specialize in helping people deal with big events like grief, illness, caring for a loved one, and divorce. These changes might contribute to anxiety, self-doubt, or depression. These challenging times can be exhausting, and it’s key to take care of yourself. With the right help, you can heal and even thrive. More and more people are understanding that mental health support isn’t a luxury, but a necessity that we all deserve. I keep up with the most effective therapies so that I can provide you with the best care possible. I also recognize that your situation is unique, and you have your own struggles and strengths. We will tailor your care to where you’re at, and what you need at this time. I am dedicated to supporting you however I can, through evidence-based therapy, education, and resources. I offer flexible appointments online, through a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform. If you’re ready for the next step, call to set up an initial consultation. I look forward to seeing how I can help.

Melissa Whelpley

(she/her)

Melissa Whelpley, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
"We don't have to do it all alone; we were never meant to." – Brené Brown This belief is at the heart of my work as a therapist. I am passionate about walking alongside my clients as a team, helping them navigate challenges and achieve their goals. Many people share things with me that they have never shared with anyone else, which is why I believe that trust and the therapeutic relationship are the most important foundations of therapy. I work with individuals ages 10 to 55 and have experience supporting both individuals and families. I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Attachment, Self-Regulation and Competency (ARC), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP) and Motivational Interviewing (MI). My specialty is working with teens and young adults, as I believe this transitional period is critical for personal growth and reaching one’s full potential. Before becoming a therapist, I served as a firefighter and first responder for over a decade, including combat firefighting tours in Iraq. This background has shaped my deep commitment to resilience, healing, and supporting others through life’s most challenging moments.

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 Coping Skills?

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, Coping Skills, 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.