UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicaid Therapists in Texas

Finding mental health support with UnitedHealthcare/Optum Medicaid can sometimes be challenging, as provider availability and access can feel limiting. With 354 verified therapists in Texas who accept UnitedHealthcare/Optum Medicaid, you have access to compassionate professionals who understand the unique needs of Medicaid clients. Therapeutic options include cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive counseling, and solution-focused therapy, tailored to address concerns such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is currently open to new clients and has upcoming availability, making it easier to connect with quality care within your UnitedHealthcare/Optum Medicaid plan, without the usual hurdles Medicaid members often face.

Find therapists near you in

HoustonSan AntonioDallasAustinFort Worth

Availability updated: 5/24/2025

Dinesh Shrestha

(he/him)

Dinesh Shrestha, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licenced Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor(LCDC-I). I have been working with clients from different settings; hospitals, school and clinical, and with clients dealing with a wide range of mental health issues. As someone with roots in South Asia, therapy is not just a profession for me; it is a true passion. I wholeheartedly believe in the transformative power of therapy and the potential it holds for individuals to become the best versions of themselves.

Andrea Cooper

(she/her)

Andrea Cooper, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
19 years of experience
Virtual
I am honored to be able to assist others with challenges throughout life and I have been counseling clients for over 15 years. I have worked with trauma, and criminal justice issues as well as using play therapy. I am trauma focused and I believe trauma colors our behaviors and our future self. I use Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy to explore past trauma that is affecting your life. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to change those thinking errors that are interfering with your judgment and behaviors. My clients will be served by me on a weekly basis through the convenience of telehealth. Together we will identify goals and objectives to meet so you can begin to improve your symptoms, your mental health, and your life. For Post Traumatic Stress Disorder I will work with you for 12 sessions with Cognitive Processing Theory . Most clients see progress in the first 4-5 sessions.

Casey Stewart

(she/her)

Casey Stewart, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist, Animal Assisted Play Therapist, Level l, Ketamine Assisted certified, previous Middle School Counselor, and Reiki trained. I have a Master's degree in Counseling from Texas A&M University. I have been a therapist for 20 years. I'm an intuitive therapist and use a somatic approach. I've worked in a variety of settings, education, clinical, and private.

Arras Khaledi

(he/him)

Arras Khaledi, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas with three years of independent clinical experience and over ten years of experience in human services, case management, vocational rehabilitation services, and working at inpatient and outpatient clinical therapy offices. I have a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Ohio University, a masters degree in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health counseling from UNC-Chapel Hill, and a bachelors of science degree in psychology from North Carolina State University. I chose to get a PhD in counseling because of my desire to help others, and my continuous drive to learn and grow. Therapy was essential to me as a teenager, then as a young adult, and now as a middle-aged adult. I have always found it to be a powerful tool in allowing me to process my thoughts and feelings, both about my past and my future. As a result, I chose to become a therapist, to provide the same support and guidance to the people I work with!

Christina Ravenel

(she/her)

Christina Ravenel, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Christina and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor located in Killeen, Texas. I have a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Sociology from Drury University. I received my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas A&M University-Central Texas. I also have a certificate in Chemical Dependency and Addiction. I grew up as a military dependant (Army Brat) and later became a military spouse. I am familiar with military culture and the stresses that being in the military can put on those individuals who are serving plus their families. Growing up in a diverse military culture has helped me to be an open-minded, non-judgmental, compassionate, patient, and trauma-informed therapist. I also believe that everyone can benefit from counseling because sometimes life just gets too hard and we need a safe space to retreat, relax and regroup. I have worked with many individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, and trauma. I would love to help you to navigate through your struggles as well.

Rachael Hayles

(she/her)

Rachael Hayles, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello and welcome, I would be honored to be a part of your healing journey. My role is to be an ally as you navigate the path of growth and change. Whether you're seeking clarity, healing, or new ways to cope, I am here to support you in this important time of your life. Together, we’ll work to create a path that aligns with your unique goals and needs. I have had worked with individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, career exploration, bipolar disorder, relationship, and communication issues. I also have experience helping people navigate life after trauma and abuse, including those in foster care and former foster youth. Additionally, I’ve supported individuals through mental health crises and homelessness, both in nonprofit settings and in private practice. I believe in treating the whole person's needs, which is why I take a holistic approach to therapy. This includes offering resources and guidance to support you in all areas of your life. My therapeutic style is warm, inviting, and deeply empathetic. I strive to create a non-judgmental, compassionate environment where you feel truly heard, respected, and valued. I take an eclectic approach to therapy, tailoring treatment to meet each client where they are. My goal is to collaborate with you to create a treatment plan that works for you. It takes tremendous courage to reach out for help—especially when you've been the strong one for so long—and I commend you for taking this step. I’m here to walk alongside you, empower you, and help you see the best in yourself. Let’s work together to unlock your potential and make meaningful changes in your life. I look forward to joining you on your journey to healing and growth! Please note that I offer flexible scheduling, including after-hours and late evening sessions.

Ruth Close Medley

Ruth Close Medley, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
13 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the great state of Texas. I am happy you are reaching out and partnering into this journey of bringing out the best in yourself through healing and recovery. I am here for you! I will provide therapy services to all clients in all locations within the state of Texas through Bluebonnet Healing and Wellness Therapy Services, PLLC supported by Grow Therapy. If you feel stuck or misunderstood because of life's experiences causing anxiety, stress, or trauma, I can help. I have always had a heart and passion for helping people and did so throughout my career in the military, civil service, and then later when I started my counseling journey in 2010 and then received my master’s from Liberty University. Counseling is a ministry that I have a passion for helping people of all ages navigate and overcome a variety of life's challenges. Good mental health positively affects our physical health. It is important for all to have the opportunity to receive mental health services. If a client qualifies, I accept sliding scale. I have been attentive to the needs of both at risk residential and outpatient children, adults, and families, while ensuring a welcoming, trusting, no-judgement environment. I also work to effect positive change using methods or tools empowering Individuals (both adults and youth) and families experiencing unexpected life's trials.

Micheal Chad Franklin

(he/him)

Micheal Chad Franklin, LCSW - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LCSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
I’m Micheal Franklin, and my journey into therapy began in a blue-collar family where my relatives worked in textile mills, battery plants, and furniture factories. Growing up, I aspired to carve a different path, aiming to be the first in my family to earn a college degree. I graduated from Western Piedmont Community College in Drug and Alcohol Technology and earned an Associate in Arts in 1996. I then continued my education at Gardner-Webb University, obtaining my Bachelor’s in Science in Human Services. Recognizing that the job market wouldn’t provide enough financial stability, I joined the Marines in 1998. During my service, I got married and welcomed a baby boy, which motivated me to seek part-time work with troubled adolescents and teens facing addiction issues. After leaving the Marines in 2003, I worked in a group home for adolescents and later became a Prevention Supervisor for adolescent substance use treatment. I also served as the lead treatment therapist for a Men's Intensive Outpatient Program at the Cognitive Connection in Hickory, NC. My passion for helping others led me to teach parenting classes and collaborate with Child Protective Services. I pursued my Master’s degree in Social Work at the University of West Florida while gaining experience in Community Mental Health. I also worked in a drug court program for two years. Since becoming licensed in 2014, I have dedicated my career to supporting clients dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, personality disorders, and life transitions.

Tatrina Bailey-Josephs

Tatrina Bailey-Josephs, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
16 years of experience
Virtual
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Texas. I received my Masters from Prairie View A&M University and have been specializing in mental health therapeutic care for the last four years. As a therapist dedicated to supporting women, males, children, and families, I provide compassionate care to those navigating the effects of trauma and life challenges. I aim to empower individuals to heal, build self-esteem, and develop effective communication skills, fostering resilience and healthier emotional responses.

Nancy Kirby

(she/her)

Nancy Kirby, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
25 years of experience
Virtual
Let's get started building a new life for you! I can help you reach your therapy goals. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years experience. My specialty is in Trauma Informed therapy, working with clients with symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and abuse. I work with individuals struggling with narcissistic abuse, anxiety, depression, compassion fatigue, grief or loss, issues with negative self-talk, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, family conflict, stress and life changes. I use an integrative treatment approach tailoring the method of therapy to your individual personality. Now is the time to begin! If you are seeking any kind of emotional healing or inner healing, look no further. I have a personal and deep understanding of the courageous journey you will take with this approach toward healing the wounds of the past. I am patient and kind in the therapeutic relationship. I want you to "come as you are" and feel accepted and free to reveal yourself at your own pace. I know it is difficult sometimes to even know where to start on the healing journey, and I will meet you where you are. I have been described as a joyful person who creates a peaceful and safe space.

Kimberly Dickens

(she/her)

Kimberly Dickens, LCSW - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Do you struggle with trust? Intimacy? The fear of being rejected? Anxiety, anger, guilt, shame, sadness, self-sabotaging behaviors, substance abuse? These are all common responses to abandonment, trauma, and sexual abuse. There is hope. You can heal. I am living proof that therapy works. I will provide you a safe space built on trust, compassion, reassurance, and optimism based on evidenced-based practice theories and interventions. My goal is to partner with you capitalizing on your strengths to create insights to the why's and how's of your life. Together we can create new healthier thinking patterns and behaviors so you can have the life you have always wanted and deserve. I have experience working with adolescents, individuals, couples, those with addictions, hospice patients, and families, in a variety of settings.

Paul Douglas King

(he/him)

Paul Douglas King, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
13 years of experience
Virtual
Hello there! Welcome to Grow Therapy. You may call me Paul. Do you find it difficult to connect with or find a therapist that places you first? I place a huge emphasis on listening to you while using a person-centered approach. I empower you to be able to identify what it is that is troubling you in a complex world of thoughts and emotions. We'll use a holistic model to integrate mind, body, and spirit. This encourages you to discover the skills or strategies that help you to be the best you can be. I help people learn to identify the root of their issue(s). This not only addresses the symptoms but improves healing at the core of the problem thereby promoting lasting change. I truly believe in a person's ability to grow and change as you travel down your pathway to mental health and well-being. Learning to live in the present allows us to experience healing and wellness in the here and now. Whether you're dealing with complex relationship issues that seem hopeless and overwhelming or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. I strive to create a safe and comfortable space where healing and growth are encouraged. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with trust, empathy and compassion while using evidence-based techniques so you can overcome barriers and obstacles that have been holding you back. I am honored to work with you and wish you all the best on your journey.

Sally Tixier

(she/her)

Sally Tixier, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
6 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Sally Tixier and I have been in practice for six years. I have a Bachelor's degree in psychology and sociology. I have a Masters in Forensic psychology. I am a licensed professional counselor. I am a certified anger resolution therapist, a certified trauma professional, and a certified anxiety treatment provider. I have worked with a diverse population of adults and adolescents. I have experience working with couples and crisis counseling. I have worked in both group and individual therapy. My goal is to help the client to define and achieve their short-term and long-term goals. I want to help clients develop effective coping skills that work best for them.

Monica Tapia

(she/her)

Monica Tapia, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! My name is Monica Tapia, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) based in Texas. I received my master’s degree in counseling psychology from Texas A&M University and have been practicing for 10 years. I work with adults, teenagers, children, families, and couples. My main goal is to assist every individual become the best version of themselves while understanding that process and making it their own.

Lucia Castaneda

Lucia Castaneda, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, and welcome to what could be the next chapter of your life. The fact that you’re here shows that you’re ready for change. I understand that therapy can feel intimidating and sometimes overwhelming, but I’m here to provide you with a safe space, one where you will be treated with compassion and care. My goal is to empower you by helping you recognize your strengths and resilience, guiding you toward becoming the best version of yourself and leading you to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Throughout our work together, I will help you shift your perspective, reframing negative thoughts and focusing on the power of gratitude. You’ll learn how to find meaning and purpose in your challenges, while also gaining insights into the experiences, beliefs, and habits that influence your decisions and daily life. I am truly blessed to do what I love. It’s my passion and purpose, a gift that I’m honored to share with others. I’m grateful to have the privilege of witnessing and validating the stories of those I work with—stories that have the power to transform and heal.

Gloria Gonzalez

Gloria Gonzalez, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Gloria Gonzalez. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, licensed in Texas. I have worked with children, teens, and adults with a variety of problems like the history of trauma, mental illness, addiction treatment for individuals & their families, unemployed individuals (career counseling), depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, anger issues, bullying, marital problems, self-injury, abuse, grief, & many more. I speak Spanish, for those families that would like to have the sessions in the language, they feel more comfortable when seeking help.

Alex Rakowitz

(she/her)

Alex Rakowitz, LCSW - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
I know, the thought about starting therapy can be difficult, but also can be a tool for growth. I have 7 years of experience in the mental health field helping clients. I am bilingual (Spanish/English) and my current practice focus is with young and older adults looking for support. Throughout my career, I've supported both adults and children across diverse environments, including private practice and nonprofit organizations. I like helping individuals manage emotional challenges of any trauma, bipolar, schizophrenia, depression; anxiety; relationship issues; adult ADHD; work issues, self-esteem issues, chronic illness, and adjustment to change. I have worked with Individuals and families for more than 15 years (7 years specifically in mental health) .I am an empathetic clinician who believes in change through a therapeutic alliance between therapist and client.

Dankel Paine

(she/her)

Dankel Paine, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Since 2000, I've dedicated much of my professional career as a life coach. In 2016, I began my journey to become a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in assisting individuals in managing their challenges. My approach integrates both intellectual and emotional aspects to support clients effectively. Using CBT, TF-CBT, and Motivational interviewing techniques, I provide structured, goal-oriented processes while focusing on achieving specific therapeutic goals. Addressing the needs of individuals who have experienced trauma by reducing symptoms of trauma-related disorders, such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety, among children, adolescents, and their families. Concentrating on helping clients explore and resolve ambivalence about change, the collaborative and client-centered nature effectively enhances motivation, promotes engagement in treatment, and supports clients in making meaningful and sustainable changes in their lives. Please contact me today to schedule a consultation.

Arthur Noble

(he/him)

Arthur Noble, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Texas. I received my Masters from Springfield College and have been practicing for 5 years. I help adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and other disorders become the best versions of themselves. We will work together to figure out the best methods and techniques that fit your individual needs. My whole purpose is to empower you, and help guide you through the process.

Larissa Garcia

(she/her)

Larissa Garcia, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
7 years of experience
Virtual
I believe the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your story. During my 6+ years as a therapist I have helped individuals, couples and families find healing and understanding in all types of situations. My goals as a therapist is helping my patients free themselves from the shackles of their past and healing themselves from emotional pain. Ultimately my hopes is for them to find meaning/ purpose in their work, family, friendships and most importantly themselves.

Erin Groeteke

(she/her)

Erin Groeteke, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) living in Texas. I have been practicing for 7 years, mostly with adolescents and young adults in a high school setting. It is my goal to help teens navigate relationships, stress, anxiety and any other struggles that they may have. If you are looking for someone to help your teen open up about what is going on in their life, and are willing to give them the love and time to grow. I believe I can help.

Shawna Hedger

(she/her)

Shawna Hedger, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Shawna and I have lived in Texas my whole life.I have been practicing as LPC since July 2020, before that I was and LPC intern for over 3 years. I am also a Licensed Social Worker in Texas, and worked in nursing homes for almost 5 years before beginning my masters program to be a counselor. I have worked in community mental health for almost 5 years, and started in special education serving students at school since November 2020. I also worked for Better Help for over a year by providing teletherapy to teens and adults. I believe that clients are their own experts, but we all need guidance in how to overcome our challenges and we can do that with therapy.

Dr. Melissa Galica, Ph.D.

(she/they)

Dr. Melissa Galica, Ph.D., LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hey there! I'm so glad you're here. My name is Dr. G, and I'm a licensed mental health professional. I wonder if you're going through a tough time right now. I know how hard things can be sometimes. Just remember that you have inherent worth and beauty as a human being. Even when life gets rocky, you deserve to feel fulfilled and lead a life you enjoy. If you ever need someone to talk to without judgment, I'm here to listen. I care about your well-being. We all need a little support sometimes. So don't be afraid to open up if you need to! I'm rooting for you, and I believe in your ability to get through this. You've got this!

LaTia Green

(she/her)

LaTia Green, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I’m Tia and I approach therapy with the mindset that every client has internal skills that give them the ability to reach personal goals. I am a Licensed Professional counselor (LPC,) and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC), and I have certifications as a Trauma-informed and Greif-informed professional (CCTP, CGP). I utilize an integrative client-centered approach, where the client takes the lead as the expert on their life and patterns of behaviors, and I help guide the client to uncover causes of core belief systems that fuel areas of concern. My role in this process is to support clients with encouragement while also maintaining accountability for positive change.

Liz Seaton

(she/her)

Liz Seaton, LPC - Texas Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
3 years of experience
Virtual
I support individuals, couples, and families in understanding how traits associated with ADHD, Autism, Traumatic Brain Injury, and other neurodivergent conditions impact the neurodivergent individual and the dynamics of their relationships with partners, family members, coworkers, and classmates. I encourage my clients to identify their life purpose based on their values, strengths, and lived experiences, while providing actionable feedback through psychoeducation, insights, communication tools, and coping strategies tailored to their specific needs. My goal is to help them cultivate a life that is as unique and meaningful as they are. I work with various types of relationships to enhance communication, set goals, and prevent or resolve misunderstandings and breaches of trust, while helping to rebuild confidence in one another. This includes reinforcing relationship foundations and establishing shared meaning and purpose. Additionally, I enjoy assisting new couples in developing healthy communication skills and trust to strengthen their connection and foster resilient, lasting relationships. When working with children and teens, I adopt a systems-based approach to empower parents in supporting their children. I provide insights into how a neurodivergent mind perceives the world and the myriad demands placed on children today, regardless of whether they are neurotypical, neurodiverse, or anywhere along the spectrum. Drawing on my experience as an autistic parent with ADHD and as a caregiver to my own neurodivergent child, I empathize with families as they navigate the challenges of providing comprehensive support for their children while also prioritizing their own well-being.

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 UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicaid?

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