Optum Therapists in Utah

Finding a therapist who accepts Optum insurance can make accessing mental health support more manageable and affordable. With 15 verified therapists in Utah 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: 7/3/2025

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).

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Carrie Richardson

Carrie Richardson, LCSW - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
I am a LCSW practicing in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC since 2010. Therapy is an opportunity for learning and growth, and I have witnessed amazing outcomes for individuals who worked hard in treatment to elicit positive personal change. I have extensive experience as a Crisis Clinician in Emergency Departments, as an outpatient therapy provider, a Mobile Crisis Clinician, a Health Coach, and as an Employee Assistance Program therapist. I am equipped to provide clinical supervision for associate professionals seeking licensure through the NC Social Work Certification and Licensure Board. My passions include helping others to solve problems; as well as deal with various challenges including trauma, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, faith crises, abandonment wounds, and identity experiences; all while promoting integrity and respect. I particularly enjoy working with first responders, law enforcement, young adults, aging populations and athletes. I love working with anyone who is truly invested in their own healing, and I would be honored to be a part of your journey. My 4 legged furry therapy assistants , Banjo and Maisy, may often be seen quietly snoozing in the background during online sessions.

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.

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.

Necole Richardson

(she/her)

Necole Richardson, LCMHC - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCMHC
6 years of experience
Virtual
You've taken the first step! I'm Necole a licensed clinician counselor in the states of Tennessee, Kentucky, and Utah. I've always desired to understand feelings, behaviour and the human mind; always been driven toward solving the questions that start with why. My passion for therapy began after realizing I was helping many clients with the similar concerns related to identity confusion, limited self-awareness, and low self-confidence. Life is pretty complex and sometimes presents us with challenges that require support and therapeutic interventions to achieve balance and overall wellness. Congratulations to you for your courage, and on your decision to seek empowerment and enhance your current emotional well-being. If you are in need of more support for your journey don't hesitate to reach out. Even if we aren't the right fit let me send you in the right direction.

Ayonna Chappell

(she/her)

Ayonna Chappell, LCMHC - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCMHC
11 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm Ayonna, a licensed professional counselor with over 10 years of experience working as a licensed mental health counselor. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with clients facing a wide range of concerns and struggles, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, divorce issues, and individuals who have experienced physical and/or sexual trauma or emotional abuse.

Amy Eshleman

(she/her)

Amy Eshleman, LCSW - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
23 years of experience
Virtual
I am licensed in Florida with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I have a deep passion for helping people move past whatever is in their lives blocking them from living how they want to live and having the type of relationships they desire. I have been providing therapy for over 20 years and I have worked with many different populations and needs. I specialize in trauma treatment along with attachment concerns and dissociative qualities. I can assist with individual, couple, or family needs.

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.

Jason Duenas

Jason Duenas, LCMHC - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCMHC
11 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a licensed counselor in Florida (LMHC), Texas (LPC-Supervisor), and Utah (LCMHC). With over a decade of experience, my journey in mental health began with a passion for helping individuals overcome life's challenges and achieve their fullest potential. Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to continuous learning and professional development. I have specialized training in trauma-informed therapies, which allows me to provide compassionate and effective support to clients who have experienced trauma. Understanding the profound impact trauma can have on an individual's life, I am committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can explore their experiences and find healing. In addition to my work with individuals, I have a deep commitment to helping couples strengthen their relationships. I am trained in the Gottman Method, a research-based approach to couples therapy that focuses on building strong, healthy relationships. Using this method, I assist couples in navigating and healing from betrayals, enhancing their communication, and fostering a deeper connection. Witnessing couples transform their relationships and rediscover trust and intimacy is incredibly rewarding. Outside of my professional life, I am passionate about self-care and mindfulness. I often incorporate these practices into my therapy sessions, empowering clients to develop their own self-care routines. I believe that a holistic approach to mental health, which includes attention to physical, emotional, and mental well-being, is essential for achieving lasting positive change. Whether working with individuals or couples, my goal is to help my clients build resilience, find balance, and lead fulfilling lives. By providing a supportive and empathetic space, I strive to guide my clients on their journey towards healing and personal growth.

Nancy Juila

(she/her)

Nancy Juila, LCMHC - Utah Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCMHC
16 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in MD (initial license), and been licensed in 8 other states (AZ, CO, ID, NE, NV, VA, UT), actively practicing for 16 years, helping adults with anxiety, self-esteem, anger issues, gaining coping skills and strategies, discussing different perspectives and insights toward self, relationships with others, and their situations. I have been working with adults with existential crises, issues with motivation, and communication challenges effectively. Additionally, I like working with older adults and adults who are going through phase of life changes. Right now, I am pursuing a doctorate in Clinical Psychology and doing externships for neuropsychological assessment and therapy. I'm interested in helping older adults and assessing mild cognitive impairment and dementia. ***Due to my externship hours and schedules, along with starting my internship in September, my availability is extremely limited and subject to change frequently. I cannot provide long term therapy. I cannot accept new clients when my internship starts in September this year. If you make your first appt with me, please fill out the intake form without skipping questions thoroughly so that I can assess and provide more appropriate referral providers before meeting. I apologize for the inconvenience.

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 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 Spirituality?

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, Spirituality, is filtering therapists in Utah 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.