UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicaid Therapists in Virginia

Finding mental health support with UnitedHealthcare/Optum Medicaid can sometimes be challenging, as provider availability and access can feel limiting. With 215 verified therapists in Virginia 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.

Nevajo Warren

(she/her)

Nevajo Warren, LPC - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
I’m a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and evidence-based support. I work with children and adults seeking to address anxiety, stress, depression, coping skills, ADHD, anger, or relationship concerns, tailoring my approach to each person’s unique circumstances. Through therapy, I aim to foster self-awareness, build coping strategies, and strengthen resilience, ultimately helping you find greater balance and fulfillment in your everyday life.

Anna Yates

(she/her)

Anna Yates, LCSW - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
Anxiety, grief, and depression are natural responses to challenging life experiences. I’m here to help you navigate these challenges with care and support through a self-compassionate approach. As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with over a decade of experience, I specialize in trauma-informed and identity-affirming care. I focus on helping individuals heal from trauma, manage complex family or social dynamics, embrace neurodivergence, and explore intersectional identities, including LGBTQIA+ and gender identity topics.

Lise Fitzgerald

(she/her)

Lise Fitzgerald, LPC - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about helping folks on their personal journey by meeting people where they are and working together on their individual goals. I have experience working in a variety of community settings with individuals with differing mental health needs. I also have several years of experience working with survivors of brain injury. In therapy, I use strategies from various modalities, including CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, etc. to focus on person-centered growth and healing.

Todd Gearheart

Todd Gearheart, LPC - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a honorable combat military veteran. I’m nearing completion of my Doctor of Education in Community Care and Counseling with a specialization in Traumatology and have earned the following degrees: Master’s degree in Professional Counseling, Master’s degree in Human Services Counseling, and a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism with a concentration in Public Relations. I have a multitude of experience in community and clinic settings having engaged in therapeutic day treatment, intensive in-home, parenting aid, mentoring, crisis intervention, crisis stabilization, and outpatient therapy services along with substance abuse treatment and counseling. My counseling philosophy focuses attention on your present and future. I focus on goal-oriented questioning to assist you in moving into a future-oriented direction to help reduce negative thinking and behaviors, increase motivation and resiliency, and become a healthier and happier human being. I take a holistic approach to counseling to help you with a healthy integration of the mind, body, and spirit. I have a unique multicultural approach to therapy due to my extensive travels around the world living in different cultures and understanding dynamic human experiences from various perspectives. I'm especially understanding and culturally sensitive to East Asian cultures. I'm very appreciative of East Asian cultures, beliefs and philosophies having lived in several East Asian countries. Many of my client’s successful therapy outcomes have been attributed to my dynamic and unique life experiences. I provide genuine warmth, honesty, empathy, support, and care to my clients. I’m known as a “skill-builder” and have a strong passion to motivate you and build resilience in your life. I look forward to working with you.

LeAndra Knight

(she/her)

LeAndra Knight, LCSW - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia with experience in the mental health field, working with adults and teens challenged by depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal dynamics, and life transitions. I specialize in Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy. I champion adopting a "Knightly" approach to treatment, empowering individuals to manage the waves of life.

Leslie Bottoms

(she/her)

Leslie Bottoms, LPC - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
16 years of experience
Virtual
I use a person-centered approach enriched by Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), emphasizing mindfulness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance. My goal is to help you manage intense feelings, align with personal goals, and build resilience. Therapy is about harmonizing acceptance and growth, fostering self-compassion, and creating fulfilling relations. Let's embark on this transformative journey together.

Sarah Nunley

Sarah Nunley, LPC - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. I received my Bachelors and Masters from Radford University, and have been practicing for 4 years. I help teens and young adults work through depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, and anger management. I have worked with clients of differing gender identities, sexual orientations, and ethnicities. My goal is to make you feel heard and accepted.

Dr. Amanda L. Graham

(she/her)

Dr. Amanda L. Graham, LP - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LP
20 years of experience
Virtual
I have been in the mental health field for over 20 years. I specialize in addictions, trauma, and crisis intervention. I have worked with various populations in various settings. I too know what it is like to suffer from mental illness as well as be a client. I utilize CBT, reality therapy, and solution-focused. Together, I know we can work out a treatment plan that will benefit you and bring about a new and better you. I look forward to hearing from you and learning your story and journey.

Jennie Polizzi

(she/her)

Jennie Polizzi, LPC - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
11 years of experience
Virtual
No matter who you are, life is always changing, filled with challenges, transitions, doubts, and sometimes successes. This is the human experience, and you do not have to go it alone. Counseling is an available resource to help hone your natural talents and skills to find vision, motivation, meaning, and resolve through your choices and experiences. With the support of a professional counselor there are no dead-end scenarios. I thoroughly believe in meeting clients where they are at, treating individuals with dignity and respect no matter who they are or where they come from, celebrating differences and individuality. A LPC & NCC and Virginia Board of Clinical Counseling Supervisor, I am completing my PhD in CES. I have a MS CMHC, BS Psy, AS Soc Sci. I have a cert in MHS and Advanced EMDR. I am also affiliated with the academic fraternities, honor societies, and other community advocacy associations, and serve on several boards. I have 20+ years of professional experience providing support and therapy for broad multicultural populations, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I also have significant experience working with magnetized populations military, DV, and LGBTQ communities. I have thorough knowledge and interest in Trauma, Multicultural, developmental, family. I've worked as a preschool and school age provider for 10 years, 911 dispatch, warrants, APS, CPS, CSB, Human Services, Early Head Start and Head Start Non-profit mental Health Specialist, Intensive In Home, Outpatient psychotherapist, Outpatient supervisor, OP manager, OP director, OP coordinator, OP intern supervisor, OP resident supervisor, Counselor Master Degree Instructor.

Jennifer Pope

(she/her)

Jennifer Pope, LCSW - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello 😊 I’m a Licensed Clinical Social based in Baltimore, Maryland. I provide a unique approach to effectively decrease the prevalence and incidence of mental illness, emotional disturbance, and social dysfunction. It is my mission to make mental health more approachable & tangible. My clinical practice is focused on lowering mental health stigma, providing clinical treatment, and encouraging everyone to achieve their optimum level of wellness.

Kelly Hackney

Kelly Hackney, LPC - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Southwest Virginia. I received my master's degree from Lindsey Wilson College in Columbia, KY. I have been practicing individual therapy for eight years, working with adults who suffer from a variety of behavioral health concerns, including PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, and Grief. In my practice, it is my goal to create a safe, supportive, and trusting environment to encourage positive change in the lives of those I serve.

Deitra Harris

(she/her)

Deitra Harris, LCSW - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
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.

Rebecca Galdo, LCSW, LICSW

(she/her)

Rebecca Galdo, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

UnitedHealthcar...
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Rebecca Galdo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida, Vermont, and Virginia. My goal is to help those suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and life stressors, learn positive coping strategies, and dive into the root causes in order to find the wellness and quality of life everyone deserves. I offer availability during the day, early evenings, and weekends in order to help make therapy services accessible for most without time barriers. I have had success working with individuals from youth, teens, and young adults to the aging population and the elderly. I am thankful for every opportunity I get to have an impact on their lives and it is my pleasure to hold space for anyone who needs it.

Octavia Haughton

Octavia Haughton, LPC - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am a License Professional Therapist in Northern Virginia. I graduated from Marymount University in Arlington Virginia in 2016. My passion is service toothers which lead me to the counseling field, Prior to getting my masters degree, I worked in a Domestic Violence safe house, and in community mental health. I have over 10 years of experience working with people who have struggled with mental illness, and life stressors.

Vanessa Sejour

Vanessa Sejour, LPC - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Virginia. I'm originally from New York and received my Masters from Long Island University in Brooklyn. I have been practicing since 2016 and I am passionate about helping adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety and depression become the best version of themselves. My goal is to help my clients build the tools necessary to navigate their lives.

La-Retha Brown

La-Retha Brown, LPC - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
2 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia, dedicated to helping individuals cultivate meaningful, fulfilling lives. With 13 years of experience, I have devoted my career to guiding clients on their journey toward healing, growth, and self-discovery. My passion for supporting others began at a young age, shaping my approach to therapy as a safe, compassionate space where individuals feel truly seen, heard, and empowered.

Dawn Burton

(she/her)

Dawn Burton, LCSW - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LCSW
25 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, meet Dr. Dawn D. Burton, a psychotherapist with psychoeducation and biopsychosocial-spiritual clinical counseling expertise to promote acceptance and quality of life for older adults, children, and families across the lifespan. As a licensed clinical social worker, she employs strategies that promote life skills and coping amid crisis and life disturbances with a specialization in chronic conditions, terminal disease, and end-of-life decision making. With over 25 years of social work expertise in healthcare and nonprofit management, Burton is credited for her leadership in community organizing chronic disease awareness, health fairs, and nonprofit organizational programming to bridge service gaps affecting persons impacted by chronic disease. Burton holds a bachelor's degree in public relations communications from Saint Augustine's College, a master's degree in social work from Virginia Commonwealth University, and with a doctorate in Organizational Leadership with emphasis in Healthcare Administration from Grand Canyon University, Burton is an adjunct professor for their School of Social Work Masters' program. Outside of her formal work, Burton and her husband enjoy philanthropy, ministry outreach efforts, camping and fishing.

Pamela Byrd

(she/her)

Pamela Byrd, LCSW - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Pamela Byrd LMSW LCSW My approach to Behavioral Intervention Practices consists of acknowledgment and enhancing of human well-being and promoting and implementing strategies to assists individuals with providing the focus of empowerment support and guidance towards primary and associated factors of complexity or concern through creating Strength Based Modalities to assist with behavioral needs, mood adjustments anxiety, and depression amongst other categories and life stressors and various factors to consider upon behavioral needs

Daryll Douglas

Daryll Douglas, LPC - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
13 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! My name is Daryll, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I strive to create a therapeutic space in which every client can feel truly, deeply seen and feel completely understood without fear of judgment. Empathy and acceptance are of utmost importance to me. As Carl Rogers said, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” In a world where relationships are becoming more and more difficult, it is my mission to create an absolutely safe space for clients to be completely honest with themselves so that they can develop a deep level of self-acceptance and self-respect. When you feel totally accepted and valued exactly as you are, you can finally start to move towards living your life as your best self. My role is to sit with you in whatever darkness you are experiencing, and to hold space with you and hold hope for you, while we work together towards the life of peace and balance that is waiting for you.

Tyler Leake

(he/him)

Tyler Leake, LCSW - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
I view us as the ultimate team! You are the expert of your own life story. I am here to help you rewrite the parts that don't quite fit with the version of yourself you want to be. Using empathy and humor, we will work together to redefine the narrative you have of yourself into one you are proud to take ownership of.

Dwyana Smithen-Lewis

(she/her)

Dwyana Smithen-Lewis, LPC - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
9 years of experience
Virtual
Dwyana Smithen-Lewis, MA, LPC, Certified Holistic Practitioner Who am I? I am HER: Hopeful, Empowered, Resilient. I am great. I am divine. I deeply believe that every one of us embodies the same greatness, the same divine essence. My mission is to help individuals recognize their own potential, embrace their unique strengths, and step boldly into a brighter, more fulfilling future. My therapeutic approach is built on compassion, cultural understanding, and a commitment to personal growth. Drawing from both my West Indian heritage and my 10 years of service in the U.S. Navy, I bring a well-rounded perspective that acknowledges the challenges people face and the resilience they possess. I believe therapy should be a collaborative process, empowering individuals to push beyond their comfort zones, learn from life’s trials, and create lasting change through new habits and patterns. In my practice, I focus on helping clients cultivate emotional wellness, navigate major life transitions, and build the skills needed to thrive in the face of adversity. Whether it’s developing healthy coping strategies, improving communication, or fostering a sense of inner strength, my goal is to guide clients on a path toward greater self-discovery and personal empowerment.

Wister Mitchelson

Wister Mitchelson, LPC - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
20 years of experience
Virtual
As a mental health therapist I have extensive experience working with at risk youth, crisis, mental health and addiction counseling working as a TDT (Therapeutic Day Treatment) Clinician, Program Manager, and Clinician within the county’s mental health and substance abuse treatment system. Wister enjoys utilizing his training in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), MI (Motivational Interviewing) via Eclectic Counselling techniques to produce a structure towards daily wellness

Lindsey Vaughn

(she/her)

Lindsey Vaughn , LCSW - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

UnitedHealthcar...
LCSW
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Virginia with 6 years of mental health experience. My work experience includes working for Community Services Board (CSB), school system, telehealth outpatient therapy, crisis intervention and prevention, and Veteran's Hospital. I have experience working with people of all ages and walks of life to provide them tools and strategies to become the best versions of themselves.

Vanessa Bailey

(she/her)

Vanessa Bailey, LPC - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

UnitedHealthcar...
LPC
9 years of experience
Virtual
You are enough! I'm Vanessa, a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) in Virginia. I received my Master's from Liberty University and have been in the mental health field for 9 years. I assist individuals and couples with overcoming and managing depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and phase-of-life issues to develop a positive self-image by rebuilding self-esteem and developing practical techniques and skills for relationship problems.

Annisha Dunaway

Annisha Dunaway, LCSW - Virginia Therapist at Grow Therapy
UnitedHealthcar...
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am an Army veteran, military spouse, and clinical social worker. My background experience as a mental health clinician to active duty military and their families, psychiatric hospitals, forensic social work and victim advocate. During my sessions my goal is to create the space to safely process, without judgement, and nurture the courage to be imperfect. I believe that challenges and changes occur to give individuals opportunities to examine their lives and draw from their inner strength the ability to redirect their life’s path. Obstacles are only opportunities for your future.

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Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Virginia rather than a city like Richmond?

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

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.