EAP:United Healthcare Optum Therapists in Texas

Utilizing mental health support through UnitedHealthcare/Optum’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can provide you with convenient and affordable access to care. With 1186 verified therapists in Texas who accept UnitedHealthcare/Optum EAP, you have options across therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and supportive counseling to help address work-related stress, personal challenges, or life transitions. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is currently open to new clients and has availability in the coming weeks, ensuring timely access to quality, EAP-covered care tailored to your needs.

Find therapists near you in

HoustonSan AntonioDallasAustinFort Worth

Availability updated: 6/19/2025

Arlet Olivares

Arlet Olivares, LCSW - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LCSW
Virtual
Congratulations on taking this brave first step toward change! Reaching out shows incredible strength, and I'm truly honored you're considering me to walk alongside you. I'm Arlet Olivares, a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker and board-approved supervisor (LCSW-S). While my professional credentials reflect dedicated training, my commitment to this work runs far deeper- it's woven into the very fabric of my life. I know, firsthand, the quiet courage it takes to navigate mental health challenges. Growing up, I walked alongside loved ones as they wrestled with their own struggles. Their experiences weren't just observations; they were felt deeply, forging an understanding of the raw, human experience of pain, trauma, and resilience that no amount of theory alone could ever teach.

Stephen Simoson

Stephen Simoson, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
Working together once you realize your inner power, both therapist and client collaborate on cultivating that inner strength. For example, I've worked with individuals dealing with self-harm, formerly referred to as cutters/self-mutilation. Also, I worked with SI/HI, depression, anxiety, people with AH/VH/TH and paranoia, addictions, relationship issues, trauma/abuse, grief, eating disorders, sleep disorders, self-esteem, Bipolar, coping with life changes, attachment issues, body image, developing healthy boundaries. Counseling is a collaborative process, "Working together for a better tomorrow."

Kelly Chastain

(she/her)

Kelly Chastain, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I am happy you have taken that first step toward your own personal growth! We live in a complicated world. Are you feeling sad, insecure, or inadequate? Do you worry excessively or compare yourself to others and wish your life were different? The demands of work, home, school, caregiving, loss, transitions, as well as exposure to troubling events can all take their toll. Many of us need a place to breathe, heal, rejuvenate, and discover a better way forward. Together we can create a safe, comfortable, uplifting environment in which to heal, learn and grow. I am a firm believer everyone is an expert in their own life and possess the skills necessary to attain the best version of themselves. All this simply means that I am prepared to provide you with the therapy that you need as an individual and I have a license to do so. I consider myself an active therapist, combining experience, education, creativity, and sense of humor with a down-to-earth, realistic approach to counseling. I bring my personality to the therapy session, so if you are looking for the blank face stoic therapist, I am not her! I have always been a service-oriented person. Helping others and giving back is a quality that has been instilled in me since a very young age. My philosophy is that we all have strengths. Together you and I can find your hidden strengths and find solutions to the patterns and pathology of your behavior. I am rooting for you to win in this journey called life. Allow me the pleasure to work with you to get through what might be a challenge for you at this juncture. It takes a lot of strength and will power to work towards a more fulfilling and happier life. I applaud you. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you! You can take that first step toward a new life! I'm here to listen and to support you!

Robert Moreno

Robert Moreno, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
1 year of experience
Virtual
My personal background gave me life learned lessons to help understand others. My personal struggles along with my education has given me the strength I feel I need to work in this field. Counseling is an absolute passion I live with every day as this is what gives me purpose. The feeling of being able to help those in need motivates me like nothing else ever could.

Yemi Alabi

Yemi Alabi, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Texas and have been practicing for 5 years. I specialize in helping individuals maximize their strength to overcome their struggles and empowering clients by equipping them with practical tools as well as strategies that foster resilience and promote lasting transformation. My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based practices primarily Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.

Shearon Penn

(she/her)

Shearon Penn, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
1 year of experience
Virtual
I help couples and individuals find hope, happiness, and peace in their home environment. I can help you delicately explore childhood trauma to see if these past hurts are interfering in your ability to have a healthy relationship. I am an expert in helping couples effectively communicate and co-parent. If the goal is separation, we can work together to learn how to separate in love. I help my clients feel empowered to believe in themselves and focus on maintaining a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.

Terri Stowe

(she/her)

Terri Stowe, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
3 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, my name is Terri Lee Stowe and I am the founder/owner of Engaging Teens Counseling Center, PLLC. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas. I provide in-person and telehealth individual sessions to clients age 11- 25 years of age. My journey in counseling began when I witnessed my middle school students struggling both emotionally and academically and feeling as if I could not help them enough within the field of education. It would be my pleasure to help you/your child to navigate the transition between adolescence and adulthood. It is my goal to engage clients and allow them to feel both seen and heard and learn to recognize their own value as well as personal strengths.

Allison Burrell

(she/her)

Allison Burrell, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
3 years of experience
Virtual
I'm an LPC based in Texas that continuously works toward increasing my cultural competency, passionate about helping my clients reach their personal goals. I coordinate our sessions to focus on your needs and help you to overcome your stressors and guide yourself to your best possible life. If you struggle to focus on the here and now and want to explore your identity, book a session and let me help you reach your therapeutic goals.

Staci Davis

Staci Davis, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
Has anxiety taken hold of your world and stolen so many opportunities from you. Does it seem like it has become the boss of you and Is causing stress and unhappiness for you and your family. Are you dealing with a circle of emotions that is overtaking your life, then let me help. I have worked with clients to help them deal with anxiety and break the negative thought patterns that you have had to live with. Again, let me help by assisting teaching you the neuroscience of the brain and how it can take control over your mental and physical wellbeing. I offer a step by step system that has been created to provide guidance in building skills to understand and control your anxiety and the depression that is causes

Christopher Pieper

(he/him)

Christopher Pieper, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
The objective for my clients during this journey is to create a partnership where they feel safe and free to speak their minds and introduce them to a process void of judgment, focused on overall well-being and mutual respect. My style is one of partnership, utilizing techniques and interventions best suited to each client's needs. I concentrate on supportive techniques while respectfully challenging my clients to challenge themselves.

Marie Silva

Marie Silva, LCSW - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Houston, TX with over 20 years of experience. My career extensively covers multiple settings: from inpatient psychiatric hospitals, grant-funded research, and non-profit organizations, to working in managed care. I work mainly with adults (18+) who present with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and relationship challenges. We each have our own story - our very own blueprint by which we have learned to function and respond in certain ways. There comes a time, however, when that approach no longer benefits us and becomes unhealthy. That now brings you here, at this very moment, and I hope to be a part of your healing and recovery.

Wendi Grant

Wendi Grant, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
As a Psychotherapist, my goal is to provide clients with a safe and supportive space to distort negative thoughts and behaviors and learn new skills to live a more productive life. My therapeutic modality is collaborative based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, with my style being Person Centered. With us working together we can build on your strengths that you already possess and gain a renewed sense of purpose. I am experienced in vast area of mental health including: crisis intervention, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, addictions, stress, life transitions, LGBTQ, and marriage and family. Being highly experienced in working with all ages and populations, I am able to meet the needs of my clients Additionally I am passionate about what I do, and I love to help others through life challenges. Whether you are in a dark place in your life or have some stumbling blocks, I am eager to help you overcome.

Robert Mapes

Robert Mapes, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
25 years of experience
Virtual
After many years of exploring a variety of jobs I finally began to focus on assisting others in this adventure called "life ." As an adult. I began serving through Christian ministry and then realized I was even more fulfilled in working more specifically in the wider field of mental health. After getting both master's and a doctoral degree in mental health, I worked in clinical settings, counseling centers, crisis centers, my own private practice , and university settings. While managing my own counseling center, I also served several years teaching graduate students in the areas of counseling and psychology. My joy comes from helping others regain control of life when cognitions, emotions, and behaviors have caused distress. We do not always understand the "why" of life experiences, however we can gain mastery of our thinking, feeling, and doing and continue to enhance functioning and happiness.

Mikela Ferguson

(she/her)

Mikela Ferguson, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Mikela Ferguson, and I am a Licensed Professional Health Counselor (LPC) in Texas, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I support my clients to address a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, and past trauma. I tailor each session to the client's individual needs using evidence-based approaches and a trauma informed attachment-based paradigm to get the best results. My communication style is calm, supportive, and reassuring. I listen deeply and provide nonjudgmental feedback.

Donald A. Simmons

Donald A. Simmons, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado and Texas and a Licensed Addiction Counselor in Colorado I have made the commitment to help others as they face adversity so as to develop a loving and compassionate relationship with themselves. I bring a wealth of experience and specialized training in addictions and mental health to my practice and there is one common theme I have noticed throughout my career, which is our self-talk. We are our own worst enemies, and this wreaks havoc on our self-esteem.

Guillermina ("Gui") Walas Mateo

(she/her)

Guillermina ("Gui") Walas Mateo, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hola/Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Houston TX. I received my MS from University of Houston Clear Lake, and I have been practicing for 5+ years. I work with adolescents and young adults who have experienced trauma and need help transitioning into adult life. I also have experience helping women in different life challenging situations, from domestic violence to career burn-out. I also hold a Ph.D. in Hispanic Studies and I'm a former academic with extensive training and expertise in cultural identity issues due to migration, feminist theory and gender issues. I'm fully bilingual (Spanish and English), Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy certified and EMDR trained.

Vernon Wiggins

(he/him)

Vernon Wiggins, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
17 years of experience
Virtual
I want to personally welcome you to a space where healing, growth, and transformation are not only possible—but expected. With over 25 years of experience in the mental health field, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside individuals from all walks of life through some of their most challenging, yet defining, moments. As a licensed clinical counselor for the past 7 years, a behavior analyst for 11 years, and a professional counselor for 15, I’ve devoted my life to helping others reclaim their strength and find meaning in the midst of difficulty. My counseling approach is rooted in empathy, shaped by experience, and guided by evidence. I combine cognitive and behavioral strategies with a solution-focused mindset—always working with you to uncover what’s working, what’s not, and how to move forward in a way that feels true to your goals and values. Together, we’ll develop practical, real-life strategies that bring relief, build resilience, and help you feel more like yourself again. In addition to my clinical work, I bring 22 years of experience as a professional educator. This has taught me how to meet people exactly where they are—with compassion, clarity, and the belief that knowledge can be a powerful force in the healing process. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or simply feeling stuck, I want you to know: change is possible. And you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re ready to take the first step, I’d be honored to walk that journey with you.

Stephanie Moore

(she/her)

Stephanie Moore, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, my name is Stephanie Moore, I graduated from Texas Woman's University with a Master's in Counseling and Development. I have experience working with children, young adults, and adults. I believe in meeting people where they are. My primary treatment modality is Person-Centered therapy. There are also times I utilize the Cognitive Behavioral therapy modality. I have worked with diagnoses of Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, and Schizoaffective Disorder. As well as experience helping others process through their childhood traumas. I believe in a collaborative approach to helping clients be able to reach their goals.

Gene Gibbs

(he/him)

Gene Gibbs, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am Gene Gibbs, a trained counselor and mental health therapist. I enjoy helping people as they navigate the issues and concerns that arise as one lives from day to day. I seek to provide a sounding board that allows clients to hear what they are saying and then to process their thoughts and ideas and get a clear view of how they are heard and what it means. From the processing step I move to clarification and application. They goal is to help the client do what is helpful for them and for those with whom they interact.

Jannetta Brass

Jannetta Brass, LCSW - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW) based in Oklahoma with a Master’s degree from Capella University and five years of experience in the field. I specialize in helping clients navigate challenges related to stress, depression, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, and parenting issues. My compassionate and collaborative approach empowers clients to find practical solutions, healing, and personal growth. I strive to create a safe, supportive space for everyone to explore their concerns and reach their goals.

Lauren DeReese Garcia

(she/her)

Lauren DeReese Garcia, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hey! I’m Lauren and my goal is to be your process partner on your therapy journey, helping you navigate big emotions and answer tough questions. I feel privileged to be able to hear your story and honored if you choose to share it with me. After almost 10 years in this field I still can’t wait to learn more and share what I have learned with you.

Kim Smith

Kim Smith, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm Kim. Are you looking for ways to build a life worth living? I am happy and privileged to be a part of your journey for change. I have a passion for helping clients find an emotional balance and happiness in their lives. I will work with you to reach your goals through an open-minded and caring alliance. I work with you to help you build a life worth living, guiding you to the goals and contentment you seek. We will work together in a supportive environment on this journey toward change. I believe in helping clients find ways to jumpstart their change in a goal-oriented manner. Clients and I work together to set goals that help them move forward. Using cognitive-behavioral therapy and other counseling methods, I will help you find the path for change that works for you in an understanding and caring environment. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, life changes, or relationship issues, I would be honored to help you discover a path to healing. Congratulations on taking the first step toward therapy and a happier future.

Jesse Tamez

Jesse Tamez, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Texas. I've worked in various treatment settings such as (substance abuse programs, psychiatric hospitals, school systems, outpatient care). I have a passion for helping others and it has become my purpose in my life. I believe that prioritizing your mental health is crucial for leading a healthy and fulfilling life.

Katarzyna Kundera Byrd

(she/her)

Katarzyna Kundera Byrd, LCSW - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
EAP:UnitedHealt...
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hello there, my name is Katarzyna Kundera Byrd, but you can call me Kash. I look forward to meeting you! I received my Master's in Social work from University of West Florida in 2016, and became licensed in 2018. Since receiving my LCSW, I have had the pleasure of working with a large range of clients, from specialized foster care, to being a medical social worker for the geriatric population. I am currently licensed in Texas, Florida, and Colorado, and work with the 18 years old+ population. My specialty is grief, but I have helped clients in other areas of mental health, such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. I tailor my approaches to clients and their needs, because therapy is not "one size-fits-all".

Chana Rivka Hersh

(she/her)

Chana Rivka Hersh, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

EAP:UnitedHealt...
LPC
31 years of experience
Virtual
Searching for the right therapist? Don't settle for just help...get top-notch help from an experienced professional! I am excited to explore with you how to reach your goals and start on the path to leading the life that you desire. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas with thirty-one years in the field. I graduated from Texas State University with a Master of Arts in Community Counseling with a focus in individual counseling and marriage & family therapy. I am also a certified Master Level Practitioner of NLP (the roots of EMDR). I take the privilege of serving clients seriously and strive to provide a safe environment where any issue can be discussed openly focusing on healing, growth, and self-discovery. Whether you are seeking counseling due to trauma, grief and loss, to manage anxiety or depression, or desire to improve upon a firm foundation or just learn more about yourself, I am delighted to walk along with you to a more refined YOU! Please know all my availability is not posted so if none of the options work for you, feel free to reach out to me at 512-655-3317 to determine alternative session times (including EVENING options) or book what is available and then message me on the platform to request other options. If you know you want to work with me and I have no current availability and your need is not emergent, I do offer a waiting list at client's request; just let me know you'd like to be added to the waiting list and I will work you into my schedule as soon as possible.

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Texas rather than a city like Dallas?

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

Will my therapist take EAP:UnitedHealthcare/Optum?

Yes! If you use EAP:UnitedHealthcare/Optum you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have EAP:UnitedHealthcare/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.

What are the "Clients say I'm" badges?

Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.

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.