Medically reviewed by Gabriela Asturias, MD on May 23, 2025If your insurance card or welcome email mentions “Optum,” “Optum Emotional Well-Being,” “Live and Work Well,” or “Optum Virtual Care,” you're covered by Optum’s behavioral health network. Optum powers therapy and psychiatry services for United Healthcare and many employer-sponsored plans, including Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that often include free short-term counseling sessions. While Optum itself isn’t an insurance company, it administers the behavioral health benefits included in your health plan or EAP.
No matter which plan you have, the process to find care is the same: use Optum’s online tools to search for in-network therapists and psychiatrists, check availability, and book an appointment—often within days.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Remote only
Lisa Johnson is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in undefined, undefined. They treat Financial Concerns, Relationship(s) with Friends/Roommates, Burnout.
Therapist + prescriber offering virtual mental health services, ADHD testing & meds for college students & adults. 100% Virtual, Evening & weekend hours.
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)
Remote only
Jamie Farrelly is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in undefined, undefined. They treat Racial/Cultural Oppression or Trauma, Trauma, Depression.
College life can be overwhelming. I help young adults (18+) build coping skills in a safe, inclusive space to navigate stress, trauma, and life changes
Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA)
Remote only
Benjamin Ingraham is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 7 years. They treat Grief and Loss, Personal Growth, Men's Issues.
You don't have to face life's challenges alone. Everyone deserves a supportive place to explore their thoughts and begin their own journey.
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Counselor, Psychotherapist
1684 Medina Road, Medina, Ohio 44256
Kate Stewart is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Medina, Ohio and has been in practice for 8 years. They treat Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Women's Issues, Work/Life Balance.
Our passion is creating a safe space to treat adults, children, couples, and families with their mental health needs.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
2460 West Ray Road, Chandler, Arizona 85224
Kelly Huffaker is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Chandler, Arizona and has been in practice for 5 years. They treat Suicidal Ideation, Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Dedicated to fostering a supportive environment where individuals can find healing, understanding, & empowerment on their journey towards mental wellness.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
5540 Falmouth Street, Richmond, Virginia 23230
Stephen Barlow is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Richmond, Virginia. They treat Trauma, Social Anxiety, Loneliness/Isolation.
I help people overcome anxiety, depression, and stress stemming from relationships or past experiences, in individual or couples counseling.
You deserve care that meets you where you are. Let this be a starting place for healing-not just a provider directory.
— Gabriela Asturias, MD
Optum manages mental health services for many insurance plans, including UnitedHealthcare and employer-sponsored plans. Depending on your plan, you may have access to one or more of the following benefit paths:
| Benefit Path | What’s Included | Typical Therapy Cost | Typical Psychiatry Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employee Assistance Program (EAP) | 3–8 free short-term counseling sessions per issue, per year | $0 | Not included (EAP refers to health plan) |
| Health Plan Mental Health Network | Ongoing therapy and psychiatry, if medically necessary | $20–$40 copay (PPO/HMO)or 20% after deductible (HDHP) | $20–$60 copay or 20% coinsurance (PPO/HMO)or 20% after deductible (HDHP) |
| Optum Virtual Care | Video visits with licensed therapists and psychiatrists, 7 a.m.–9 p.m. local time | Often $0 if under EAPOtherwise same as above | Often $0 if under EAPOtherwise same as above |
Tip: If you're unsure which benefits apply to you, call the number on your insurance card or EAP welcome materials and ask: "Do I have access to EAP sessions, standard mental health benefits, or both?"
Optum covers different types of mental health professionals. Here’s how each one can help:
Therapist / Counselor (LCSW, LMFT, LPC)
Psychologist (PhD, PsyD)
Psychiatrist (MD, DO)
If you're having trouble finding a timely appointment, here’s how to take action:
Recovery is possible. With early intervention, a supportive community, and the right professional care, you can overcome challenges and build a fulfilling life. We’re here to help you find the support you need.
