EAP:United Healthcare Optum Therapists in Utah

Utilizing mental health support through UnitedHealthcare/Optum’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can provide you with convenient and affordable access to care. With 48 verified therapists in Utah 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.

Availability updated: 6/30/2025

Peter Vernezze

Peter Vernezze, LCSW - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Life is difficult. We labor at often unsatisfying occupations and manage only to keep our heads above water. Romantic relationships deliver as much heartbreak as happiness. We suffer setbacks, as do those we love. The few pleasures we encounter offer only temporary respite. Ultimately, as the Buddha reminds us, we are all overtaken by old age, sickness, and death. Amidst these realities, the modern psychopharmaceutical attempt to address natural reactions to the human condition such as anxiety and depression by dispensing medication seems like the proverbial band aid solution. What is needed is surgery for the soul. World wisdom traditions such as Stoicism and Buddhism and philosophies such as Existentialism offer an alternative (and complementary) healing pathway, and many of their insights have been integrated into modern psychotherapeutic interventions. As a philosopher and psychotherapist, I combine ancient insight with evidenced-based practices such as ACT and CBT.

Kim Kennedy

(she/her)

Kim Kennedy, LCSW - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
Are you feeling stuck and ready for a change? Let’s sit down and work through it together! Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, conflict in your relationships or just overall feeling stressed, I am here to help. My name is Kim and I’m a LCSW with over 10 years of experience. I’m passionate about helping people build skills to live more fulfilled, happy lives.

Amber Smith

(she/her)

Amber Smith, LCMHC - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCMHC
20 years of experience
Virtual
With over 20 years of experience as a Mental Health Counselor, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with compassion and understanding. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, medical issues, or infertility, I truly believe in the power of healing and growth, and I am honored to walk alongside others on their journey toward peace and well-being.

Jennifer Fuller

(she/her)

Jennifer Fuller, LCMHC - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCMHC
15 years of experience
Virtual
In my practice I value wellness for the mind and body. A comfortable and safe environment are my priorities, as we work towards meaningful personal and relational changes together. I rely heavily on body and nervous system focused practices, mindfulness and intentionality, as well as healing, relational, and experiential strategies. I will come alongside you to guide you towards connection, growth, and embodiment.

Maxine L. Kibble

(she/her)

Maxine L. Kibble, LMFT - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
22 years of experience
Virtual
Maxine L. Kibble LMFT, MA, PsyD Candidate intake+Maxine21932@growtherapy.com I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, Connecticut, and Utah. I have a Bachelor of Science in Education and Dance Therapy from New York University. I have two master's degrees: one in marriage and family counseling from the University of Phoenix and a second master's in clinical psychology from Alliant International University, California School of Professional Psychology. I am enrolled in the PsyD doctoral program at California Southern University and am scheduled to graduate on 05/2024. I have 20 years of experience as an educator, counselor, career counseling and researcher in psychology. As a licensed MFT therapist, my expertise is in the areas of substance abuse, prison populations, AB109s (felons)/290s (sex offenders), anger management, domestic violence, career counseling, and parenting supervision. In addition to individual, couples, and family counseling, I have experience with specific populations, such as transgender and LGBQ, with a particular cultural emphasis on identity formation. I have worked closely with psychiatrists regarding members who require medication management and assessments, diagnosing and creating for those individuals, couples, and families treatment plans counseling services. My clientele ranges from 6 to 75 years of age, and my therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused, Narrative therapy, and Supportive therapy. My foundation and belief system is based on being culturally sensitive when working with all clients to understand how they see their presenting problem within the context of their culture.

Michael Cooksie

Michael Cooksie, LCSW - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Indiana and Utah. I help my clients overcome challenges that stand in the way of living a happier and healthier life congruent with their values and aspirations. I have clinical experience working with those suffering from relationship problems, low-self esteem, addiction and anxiety and depression. I am also a career development facilitator. I guide my clients through interviewing techniques, job search and resume building techniques. I previously worked as career development facilitator for the US Army in Germany and at West Point, NY.

Tobias Wilde

(he/him)

Tobias Wilde, LCSW - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Tobias (He/Him/His). I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LCSW/LICSW) with 13 years of professional work experience. I recieved my Masters from the University of Utah. I have many roles in life, in addition to being a therapist, I was born in the United States. I am a son and a brother in a blended family. I am also an advocate, a father, a friend, a mentor, a student of life, as well as a teacher by heart. I am also a Child of a Deaf Adult (CODA) and fluent in American Sign Language (ASL).

Chala Barrington-Cruz

Chala Barrington-Cruz, LCSW - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Chala Barrington-Cruz, LCSW, is a licensed Clinical Social Worker and Applied Behavioral Analyst with over 20 years of experience. Providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals. Specializing in caregiver stress, Christian-based counseling, adoption, depression, anxiety, grief, racial identity, parenting challenges and raising children with autism. Chala brings both clinical expertise and heartfelt understanding to every client relationship. Rooted in a holistic approach, Chala integrates spiritual principles with therapeutic modalities to help clients navigate life's most complex emotional challenges

Angela Mathew

(she/her)

Angela Mathew, LMFT - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
28 years of experience
Virtual
Hello!! And, Welcome! Looking forward to meeting you!! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am licensed in Kentucky, Indiana, Kansas, Maine, Utah, and Nevada. I received my Masters from Western Kentucky University, and have been practicing for 28 years. I help individuals, and couples to overcome "old programming", develop new and healing ways to see themselves and life, and utilize places of self-empowerment. Increasing one's relationship with oneself helps one to have greater relationships with others, and all other parts of life.

Nicole Joseph

(she/her)

Nicole Joseph, LCMHC - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCMHC
13 years of experience
Virtual
I am Nicole Joseph, a dedicated therapist specializing in solution-focused therapy. My practice centers on helping clients harness their strengths and resources to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. By focusing on solutions rather than problems, I guide individuals and families toward a more positive and fulfilling future. With a passion for helping individuals improve their mental well-being and enhance their lives through therapy, my empathetic and non-judgmental approach creates a safe space for clients to explore their feelings, emotions, and challenges.

Micheal Chad Franklin

(he/him)

Micheal Chad Franklin, LCSW - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
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.

Shannon Rebiejo

(she/her)

Shannon Rebiejo, LCSW - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
This mental health counselor is dedicated to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive space. This space allows you to feel comfortable and safe exploring thoughts and feelings. Shannon believes in unconditional positive regard and approaches each client with openness, empathy, and non-judgment. The goal is to foster a strong therapeutic rapport, leaving you feeling heard, respected, and empowered. Prioritizing active listening and clear communication ensures understanding every step of the way. Shannon is passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges. Shannon believes in your inherent strength and resilience. Collaboration is offered to find personalized solutions and support your journey toward healing and growth.

Matt Loveland

Matt Loveland, LCSW - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I love the outdoors and most anything to do with water. I have 25+ years of experience helping people as a clinical social worker. My practice has been primarily geared toward adults, but I also have extensive experience with youth ages 12-17. In recent years, my clientele has gravitated to men's issues.

Sondra McKinney

Sondra McKinney, LCSW - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Sondra! My mission is to help individuals and families improve their lives through effective mental health counseling. My goal is to empower my clients and offer them skills that will help them overcome the challenges they face, so they can live a full and happy life. I believe it's my job to be there to assist my clients as they overcome life's challenges

Chase Sayer

Chase Sayer, LCSW - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hey! I'm glad that you are looking to get therapy. Here are some things to know about me while making you decision on what works well for you. I come from a military life style allowing me to travel the world and see all kinds of cultures. Because of this I see value in everyone. I believe in getting results in therapy. I want to see people change as fast as they want to or are willing to. So I give things to practice in every session. I believe in poly vagal theory and teach clients to release emotions from there nervous system not just cope with it. I often say I consider myself more of a trainer than therapist sometimes. I also help a lot with attachment struggles. I hope this gives you enough info about me to feel comfortable working with me. I am also very flexible with how I work with people.

Mary N Coniglio

Mary N Coniglio, LCSW - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
I believe that true growth, healing, and fulfillment come from living in alignment with your values, identity, and purpose. If you feel disconnected, overwhelmed, or struggle with difficult choices, I provide a safe and supportive space to help you reconnect with yourself. Together, we will bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be, empowering you to move forward with clarity, confidence, and authenticity.

Tiffany Shaw

(she/her)

Tiffany Shaw, LCSW - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
29 years of experience
Virtual
I have been a Social Worker for 29 years. I have a bachelor's and master's in Social Work. My primary employment has been with the Department of Children and Family Services for 24 years. I have worked in the capacity of a child protection investigator, a foster care worker, an adoption worker, a child welfare supervisor of all field programs, a child welfare manager, and as a statewide child welfare trainer. As a social worker, my PRN employment includes hospitals (6yrs) mental health and substance abuse (6yrs), hospice (1yr), schools, nursing homes, and assisted living. I am a TBRI practitioner and adoption competent. As a therapist, I am well-rounded with experience and knowledge in many domains. You are the expert of your own life and no one can fix you, but you. The client-therapist relationship is a partnership in healing. My mother was a social worker and I give her homage to the social worker in me.

Tommy Saathoff

Tommy Saathoff, LCMHC - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCMHC
32 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and reside in Texas, I am also licensed in Colorado, Florida, Utah, South Carolina, and Vermont. I specialize in helping you identify and overcome issues that hinder your day-to-day enjoyment of life and/or interfere with progress towards goals you have set. In over thirty years of private practice counseling I have learned to meet clients’ needs not only with continued education and research but also through a multitude of life experiences. I enjoy working with a diverse range of clients and have found that humor when utilized in an appropriate way and time can be very beneficial. I believe trust is a fundamental element in any relationship. This trust has to be developed and nurtured to remain genuine. Through trust other aspects important to the relationship can prosper such as comfort in being open, sincerity, and a willingness to change. I find that humor when utilized in an appropriate way and time can be very beneficial. I am a life-long Texan, however, I have traveled extensively and embraced many different cultures and location specific issues. Through all of life’s changes I have learned that, even with the best of plans, things still do not always work out the way we would like. I have experienced many of the same issues as my clients so can relate to them on a personal basis. This has also allowed me to acquire an understanding of what clients may be going through even if I have not experienced the exact situation. Through any adversity there is no reason to feel alone.

Elena De Salvo

Elena De Salvo, LMFT - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LMFT
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, I'm Elena! Hi! I'm here to help you have the life you want, as sometimes life becomes challenging, and adjusting to life changes isn't always easy. I am glad that you prioritize your needs by coming here for help. I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I began therapy practice during my MA Program at JFKU in CA. For over 10 years, I've worked in various settings, including not-for-profit mental health agencies and private practice. I believe that treatment is a collaborative approach. I look forward to taking the journey of healing with you. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back.

James Jackson

James Jackson, LCMHC - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCMHC
4 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed therapist in the State of Texas, Utah, and Washington. I earned my Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Maryland University College and a Masters in Counseling from Webster University. I've worked in many different clinical settings including outpatient counseling and inpatient treatment at a psychiatric hospital along with working as an outpatient assessment counselor for a nonprofit organization.

Cathy Tanner

Cathy Tanner, LCMHC - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCMHC
21 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am so glad you are reaching out. It takes courage to ask for help and I know that is not always easy and I am proud of you for taking the first step! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 21 years of counseling experience. I am here to support you on your journey towards mental health and well-being. I provide a safe and compassionate space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My clients often struggle with the "unknowns" of life and I like to help people feel more comfortable with the unknown and to trust the process of life.

Chinyere Tunsill

Chinyere Tunsill, LCMHC - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCMHC
11 years of experience
Virtual
I believe that each one of us has the answers to our problems inside of us. However, sometimes we need someone on our journey to help us unlock those answers by asking the right questions---things you may not have considered, presenting proven strategies, and psychoeducation. Although, you will make strides with the energy and effort you give, the number one predictor that one will improve is the quality of the therapeutic relationship. I hope to provide a place of warmth, compassion, and acceptance in which you feel empowered and free to approach any concerns. I am here to help you along on your journey. I am a licensed mental health counselor in Arizona, Florida, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, and Utah. I graduated from Florida Atlantic University with an Educational Specialist degree in Mental Health Counseling. I also earned a Master's of Art from Roosevelt University. I have experience working with youth and their families as well as adults. The theoretical framework that I usually draw from is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. I also apply Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing Techniques as needed. I address trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, interpersonal skills, self-esteem, anger, problem-solving, and decision-making. In conjunction with therapy, I believe that exercise, proper nutrition, and good sleep hygiene are an integral part of overcoming mental health concerns. Change, even positive change can be challenging and uncomfortable. I hope to provide the necessary support as a champion of change.

Kim Sylla

Kim Sylla, LCSW - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
It would be my pleasure to work with you! My name is Kim Sylla and I have been interested in the field of social services since childhood when I enthusiastically listened to the life stories of those around me including friends, neighbors and extended relatives. This interest grew with with my first therapist volunteer experience -- at the age of 20 -- with individuals who had substance use and mental health disorders. Since then I have had a wide array of additional volunteer and work experiences with adults and adolescents undergoing various life challenges at work, school, home and in the larger community. My varied experience, training and education prepared me to use an integrative therapeutic approach that draws on cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and ecological systems theory.

Deitra Harris

(she/her)

Deitra Harris, LCSW - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in North Carolina. I received my Masters from West Virginia University and have been practicing for 8 years.I help seniors manage depression and adults adjusting to chronic illness by challenging negative thoughts and encouraging engagement in enjoyable activities, while also supporting caregivers in identifying stressors, reframing negative beliefs, and setting healthy boundaries.

Wusthania Alexandre

(She)

Wusthania Alexandre, LCSW - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Wusthania Fondoit Alexandre, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with diverse populations with extensive background including children struggling with ADHD, family issues and interpersonal issues), adults in a crisis, trauma, depression, anxiety, prenatal and postpartum issues, and any underlying issues which affect their lifestyle. I want to be part of your journey, I will hold your hands when needed, and challenge you to do your best when you doubt yourself.

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Utah rather than a city like Salt Lake City?

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 Utah from St. George to Provo! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Utah.

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.