EAP:United Healthcare Optum Therapists in Washington DC

Utilizing mental health support through UnitedHealthcare/Optum’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can provide you with convenient and affordable access to care. With 34 verified therapists in Washington DC 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: 4/16/2026

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Couples Counseling
+5
Hi! I am a licensed counselor (LMFT in District of Columbia, LCPC in Illinois. My home base is in Wheaton, IL. I have been practicing for 28 years, and have extensive experience in non-profit work as well, working with youth and adults in variety of capacities from program management to development and implementation of service learning programs. My approach to therapy is a mindful-based approach that validates the client experience while at the same time nurtures empowering growth and change. It is an approach that embraces the client where they are, and seeks to weave together a narrative that nurtures the client to grow through discomfort while honoring how difficult change can be. This approach helps to deal not only with issues related to life satisfaction, relationships, and career work, but also in dealing with life circumstances that are unpleasant but beyond the client's control. This work is informed by neuroscience, and we will often take time to both notice what is happening in the body and how that can help effect change. This work is based in neuroscience, but in addition, and when willing, we may explore spirituality - both as sources of pain (such as religious trauma) as well as possibilities for supporting healing.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Career Counseling
Coping Skills
Couples Counseling
+10
Hi! I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in Maryland. I received my Masters from the Howard University and have been practicing for 5 years. I specialize in helping individuals and couples manage anxiety, anger, grief, and life stressors. My approach is straightforward and supportive—offering a non-judgmental space where you can explore challenges, gain new perspectives, and build healthier ways of coping.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Women's Issues
+9
I’m a therapist who believes healing starts with feeling safe and understood. I provide a calm space where you can talk freely and begin to unpack what’s been weighing on you. I have extensive experience helping clients manage stress, anxiety, and the effects of past experiences. In our sessions, I’ll teach simple, effective ways to handle emotions and life challenges. Together, we’ll work on building confidence, gaining clarity, and making choices that move you toward peace, balance, and a better quality of life.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Hello! My name is Garland Nichols and I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Washington, DC and North Carolina. My journey began as a Foster Care Social Worker, where I used case management skills to rehabilitate and reunify families. My passion and belief in rehabilitation eventually led me to pursue Clinical Social Work, where I am now aim to empower my clients each session.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Couples Counseling
Depression
Family Therapy
+9
I’m a licensed clinical therapist with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals and families through life transitions, grief, and healing. My approach blends compassion, cultural awareness, and evidence-based strategies to help clients rediscover their voice and reclaim joy. I believe therapy is a collaborative process where you can heal, grow, and feel empowered to live with purpose and peace
VirtualAvailable
Open-minded
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
+2
My name is Cha Peterson, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I work with children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, and challenges with emotions like anger and feeling overwhelmed. I take a person-centered and practical approach, blending understanding with tools you can use in your day-to-day life. My goal is to create a space you feel heard, respected, and supported-while also helping you build skills to move forward with confidence. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and you don't have to have everything figured out to begin. We'll work together at your pace to understand what's going on and what meaningful changes looks like for you.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Women's Issues
+11
Hi! My name is Katrice Hollins and I am excited to support you in your journey. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Georgia and the District of Columbia who has been in the helping profession for 20 years. I have worked in a variety of fields including social services, inpatient mental health, foster care, special education, and school mental health. I am passionate about helping people to reach their goals and develop life-long wellness. As a therapist, it is not my role or desire to give you advice or make decisions for you. What I offer is a place for you to feel valued for who you are, exactly as you are. I will ask questions and help you process the answers. I will reflect on your values and feelings that allow you to make the best choices for your life. *Please feel free to message for additional appointment availability.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Grief
Spirituality
Anxiety
+2
My name is Rica Avery, I am a licensed professional counselor. I graduated from Trinity Washington University where I received a Master's of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling; in addition to receiving a Bachelor's of Interdisciplinary Studies in Social Sciences from The Catholic University of America. My mission is to educate, empower and elevate individuals within my community to develop the necessary skills required to effectively promote community development, mental health awareness and spiritual growth.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
ADHD
+4
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Individual Clinical Social Worker in DC (LICSW); and also a Clinical Social Worker in MD (LCSW-C). I received my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology in 1985 and my Master's degree in Social Work in 1999. I earned my LICSW in DC in 2002. In December 2025, I earned my Clinical license in Maryland (LCSW-C). I like talking with people--but more importantly, listening to people. To me, therapy is a block of time. It is an opportunity for people to talk to someone who is not a parent, brother, sister, spouse or even best friend. My goal is to listen to you and to help you consider options in your life.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Intelligent
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Suicidal Ideation
+3
Hello, I am a licensed therapist with more than 10 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I work with adults and teenagers who seek help with depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship concerns. I also have experience working with those in crisis and those looking for support in tough times. I also work with clients of diverse cultural backgrounds. I am a male therapist of Asian Indian background and work with clients from various backgrounds. My style of therapy is centered around your preferences and can be tailored to meet your needs. I work with you so that you can set the agenda and goals and pace of therapy.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+7
My name is Janet Muta and I am a Licensed Clinician with over 17 years of experience in mental health, behavioral issues and relationships. I treat individuals from diverse backgrounds. My approach is treating the whole person because most of the time our problems are the outcome of more than just one thing and when I get to know you I am able to address different issues that could be contributing to that one specific problem. We all experience some difficulties in our lives sometimes and we all cope differently. What works for one person/couple who are experiencing a similar situation may not work for another and so I personalize your treatment to fit you. Being in therapy is like being on a journey, I make sure you are in the driver’s seat and I become your great working GPS, guiding you to your desired destination. I also hold a degree in finance which sometimes comes handy when helping those who are stressed due to financial needs. Among the treatment modalities I use are: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Positive Parenting, Contingency Management...
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Depression
Women's Issues
+6
Are you struggling to build and maintain healthy relationships? Do you speak kindly to yourself? Are past experiences preventing you from being present and stepping into your future self? I am Kailla Rowell, LICSW & Welcome to Rooted & Healing- a brave space to begin your healing journey. We all need crown adjustments that support us in being our best authentic selves. I am passionate about empowering and creating space for Black & Brown womxn. I will guide you on your journey, and we will go from just surviving to thriving! I love to use art and music therapy as an enhancer for my creative clients interested in using expressive art tools during their healing journey.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Foster Care/Adoption
Hello! I'm a licensed clinical social worker based in Washington DC. I received my master's from the University of Maryland and have been practicing for twenty years. I look forward to supporting you on life's journey. I will be your biggest cheerleader, all while challenging you to be the best version of yourself! I look forward to supporting your glow!
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I have dedicated my career to helping individuals and families find strength and resilience in the face of life's difficulties. With a background in clinical social work, I have worked extensively with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds, addressing an array of concerns such as depression, anxiety, and other mood disturbances. I understand that no two individuals are the same, and I am committed to tailoring my approach to meet your unique needs.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Bipolar Disorder
Depression
LGBTQ
+10
Greetings to you and all With a wish for good health and peace in your life. My name is Sherby John. I have been working and learning along this journey, we call life, just as you have. It can be a journey filled with joy and struggle. Have you reached a point where it seems there is more struggle than joy or feel stuck in the muck that seems to only get deeper or harder to transgress? Then maybe it is time to find new paths and options by having a guide on this journey. Therapy can be a vehicle for change and development of workable tools to assist in continuing with this journey. Whether you are dealing with Depression, Life changes, Anxiety, Relationships, Trauma, or a new medical or mental health diagnosis, therapy can be a useful mechanism for support, discernment, and information. I would like to provide you with a safe and welcoming environment and space to relieve yourself of these stressors through working on alternatives to current reactions to triggers or stressors in the way of continuing your journey, your way and at your own pace. Come in. Lets Talk. Lets get to work.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Direct
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Life Transitions
Hello, I'm Barbara. With extensive experience working with individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and loss, I am here to support you through your journey. I believe in an approach that leverages your strengths and resilience, helping you develop effective coping techniques and strategies. This framework is designed to empower you, equipping you with the skills needed to meet life's challenges both today and in the future.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Postpartum
Trauma and PTSD
+4
Hello and welcome! I’m a licensed clinical professional counselor with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. Much of my career has been spent in healthcare in crisis response, giving me deep understanding of the unique, emotional toll faced by healthcare professional professionals, first responders, and others working in high stress environments, I specialize in supporting individuals who are coping with trauma and PTSD, and I also work with women navigating infertility, prenatal and postpartum challenges. These experiences can be incredibly isolating, and my goal is to offer a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where healing and connection can begin. My therapeutic approach is grounded in trauma informed care as well as evidence -based practices. I am certified in EMDR (Eye movement desensitization, and reprocessing). IFS, (Internal family systems), and CBT (Cognitive behavioral therapy, I understand the impact of chronic stress, grief, and unresolved trauma on both mental and physical health. Whether you’re coping with burnout, navigating complex personal emotions or working through traumatic experiences, my goal is to provide a safe and collaborative space for healing and growth. I offer in person as well as telehealth appointments to accommodate your schedule and comfort level.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
Depression
Hi!, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Maryland. I received my Masters from Howard University in Washington DC and have been practicing for the last 13 years. I help people struggling with life issues cope and overcome their struggles and continue to function as best as they can.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+8
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Washington, DC but I am also licensed in Maryland and Virginia. I received my Masters of Social Work from North Carolina State University in North Carolina. I have worked in mental health and substance abuse field since 2005. I enjoy working with young adults and up. My clinical focus is centered around those that have concerns with anxiety, depression, sexual aggression and substance use. My therapeutic orientation is psychodynamic which includes aspects of Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I tailor to the needs of each individual client.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Self Esteem
+8
Welcome to New Hope For This Season Counseling LLC! My name is June Faith Dickerson and I am the founder and owner of New Hope For This Season Counseling LLC. This counseling practice was created to provide hope, encouragement, and emotional wellness while meeting the needs of clients with a heart full of compassion and empathy. I began my career in the Maryland area in 2019 working with individuals and families in crisis. I always had a heart to help people and spent many years volunteering at schools and youth detention centers which birthed into my passion to begin my counseling educational journey. To receive the credentialing, I obtained my bachelors in Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology and my master's in Clinical Mental Health.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

Depression
Military/Veterans
Racism
+1
My career began with a strong community focus, including service at the first free health clinic dedicated to supporting the HIV-impacted community and early work in community mental health. In my 28 years of clinical experience I have maintained a child and family-centered approach while broadening my expertise across a wide range of settings, including inpatient residential care, hospital social work, nephrology, crisis and trauma counseling for children and adults, military social work, and academia. My practice includes supporting individuals through transitions, grief, depression, chronic pain, and complex social service needs. I hold postgraduate training in social welfare and psychology, which has enriched my skills and informed my integrative, client-centered approach aimed at fostering resilience and healing.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+7
I’m a trauma-informed, culturally responsive therapist who works with adults navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and substance use. I specialize in supporting individuals during life transitions, including community reintegration and recovery. My goal is to create a safe, structured space where you feel heard, empowered, and supported as you work toward meaningful change. Together, we’ll build on your strengths, explore new strategies, and move toward the life you envision.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
Hi, I am a licensed clinical social worker who received my Bachelor 's degree from South Carolina State University and graduate degree from Howard University. My field of concentration is in mental health. I have experience working in the following settings ( child welfare, domestic violence, psychiatric hospital setting, and schools). I have been providing therapy to adolescents, adults, couples, and families for over 15 years.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Men's Issues
+2
I am a psychotherapist and life coach with over 25 years of experience practicing in the Washington, DC, area. I specialize in human potential, relationship health, life transitions, and coping with stressful situations. I have trained extensively with professional and master coaches and I work with a diverse clientele that include young professionals at the beginning of their careers as well as executives and corporate leaders in the financial industry. I believe that clarity enables us to take a stand for what we want in life. It allows us to make a commitment to take action to create a meaningful and purposeful life.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Depression
Family Conflict
LGBTQ
+18
Welcome, I am Feven! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help individuals manage anxiety, depression and burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach; addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate the different challenges they face and build coping skills to create more fulfilling and holistic life experiences. From my journey, I can personally attest to the power of support, in its many forms. This support goes beyond clients I service but also to their families and communities. I believe that mental wellness isn’t just individualistic; but includes the ecosystem surrounding the person. My praxis acknowledges and aims to support the village needed by all.  I’m also passionate about the transformative impact of safe and brave spaces for those who often experience exclusion. My career has afforded me opportunities to build trust with LGBTQ+, Black, Indigenous, Latina/o/x, and Refugee communities across the nation. It is a personal privilege to center wellness and holistic care for all as ‘self-care is a radical form of resistance.’ Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, trauma, PTSD, self-acceptance, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion, empathy and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Solution oriented
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Depression
+7
Chinelo Okpalobi is a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. Let's celebrate this first win of many, deciding to embark on your therapy journey. I'm here to be your teammate, but most importantly, your accountability partner. I take a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals. There isn't a manual on how to start; once you feel ready, I'm here to guide you through conversation. I’m here to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can be yourself and learn more about yourself.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Direct
Open-minded

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
Life can feel overwhelming when anxiety, depression, or past trauma make it hard to cope or move forward. You don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether you’re a teen, young adult, or someone feeling stuck, therapy can help you gain clarity, build resilience, and develop practical tools to manage stress and emotions. Together, we’ll work to understand your challenges and find lasting strategies that actually fit your life — not a one-size-fits-all solution.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Direct
Intelligent

Specialties

Addiction
Anger Management
Anxiety
Usually, my clients seek therapy and counseling after struggling with challenges for days and sometimes months. Over time, these same challenges create maladaptive behavior patterns that must be corrected to facilitate change. However, my clients tend to dig in while inserting a host of new concerns. Albert Einstien wrote: "We can't solve today's problems with the mentality that created them" With this in mind, it is better to seek professional services and resources: Recognizing you're not alone in this healing process. I understand that therapy cannot solve all things of the past that challenge us, but clients can seek support, understanding, and better days. My passion is to help the world heal through community and humanity. I'm ready to help you define and rewrite your new beginning. This will allow you to sculpt the person you want to be.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
Anger Management
Anxiety
+10
Hi there, I am a license mental health counselor licensed in Florida, Georgia, New York and DC. I obtained my degree from Troy University in Orlando, Florida. I have 15 years of experience working with clients. I have experience helping teens (13-17 years) and adults (18 years and older) manage their feelings of anger, anxiety, depression, career exploration/change, increase their self-esteem and others.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Direct
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
+10
Welcome! My name is Marian Robinson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia with over 20 years of professional mental health experience. I have experience in helping clients with low motivation, relationship issues (individual), self-esteem and confidence, career difficulties, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, grief, and end of life issues. I take an eclectic, person-centered approach, CBT and psychodynamic approach where you are in the driver seat in your own recovery. I am here to support you in that process and will meet you where you’re at, without judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I would be proud to help you get started.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Trauma and PTSD
I work with clients to help restore balance, wellness by identifying troublesome patterns, dynamics, issues and work in a wholistic manner addressing cognitive, emotional and behavioral and historical/cultural factors. I also find body/somatic work as a necessary component of managing stress, quality of life and explore how lifestyles impact one's wellness. I have a long history of work with addictions, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, identity issues, health and aging issues.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Direct

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+7
Tileda Brown, LCSW, CSAC Licensed Clinical Social Worker | Certified Substance Abuse Counsel | Individual Therapy Welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 8 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s most challenging transitions. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance abuse and self-esteem. My approach is warm, collaborative, and rooted in evidence-based practices, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy , Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based interventions. I work with adults navigating issues such as: Struggling with Depression Anxiety and panic disorders Grief and loss Relationship and attachment issues Life transitions (divorce, career change, etc.) In our work together, I strive to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and empowered. Healing isn’t linear, and I believe therapy should move at your pace. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply seeking deeper self-understanding, I’m here to support you.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

ADHD
Anger Management
Anxiety
+10
Hello, My core belief is that all people are created equal; therefore, everyone has equal right to leave to their fullest potential. I earned my master’s in social work from University of Maryland, School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD in 2010. I have Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical (LCSW-C) in MD, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in DC and Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) in VA. For more than 10 years, I have utilized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), humanistic, person-center, strength-focused therapy and other psychotherapy Intervention to assess, plan, implement and evaluate individual or family in diverse therapy environment. I am commented to assist people to live life to their fullest potential because we all have one life to live, and we deserve to be in peace with ourselves. I have worked with people in LGBTQ+ community both in individual and couple session. I am WPATH qualify to write gender affirming surgery letter.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
+2
Hi, I'm Erin! The one thing I love about being a therapist is being able to help individuals break the cycles in their lives that cause them feelings of "being stuck." I utilize a mix of tools/ interventions from Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy that allow clients to explore unresolved issues, challenge their thoughts, and develop insight into barriers that can be blocking their growth. My main job as a therapist is to teach my clients how to regain control over their lives whether it's from anxiety, depression or stress; we will work together to come up with a therapeutic style that helps clients progress towards their goals.
VirtualAvailable
Frequently asked questions

Why filter by District of Columbia rather than a neighborhood like Adams Morgan?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in District of Columbia. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across District of Columbia from The Navy Yard to Georgetown! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in District of Columbia.

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.

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 happens during the first therapy 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.