Connect with Therapists who accept Optum in Virginia

Book a session as soon as April 20

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

30+ therapists who accept Optum

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

30+ therapists who accept Optum
A headshot image of Karyn Nicolai

Karyn Nicolai

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPC
15+ years

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Karyn Nicolai, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Karyn has a Master of Education (MED) in Counseling from Lynchburg University and a Master of Arts (MA) in Psychological Counseling from Monmouth University.

Virginia
Specialties
Grief
LGBTQIA+
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Style
Directive
Candid
Curious

Together, we will explore strategies and techniques to assist you along your journey to self-discovery and well-being. I will give you the tools, but it will be your commitment to doing the hard work that will yield the results you want to achieve.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Chanel Morgan

Chanel Morgan

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPC

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Chanel Morgan, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Chanel has a Master's in Counseling (MC) from South University.

Virginia
Specialties
ADHD
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Gentle
Supportive

I am so happy that you decided to take the first step in making a change. I know that it may have taken a lot of courage to take the first step, but you should be proud that you did. I'm proud of you! On our journey through life, we will endure many twists and turns, but how we navigate makes all the difference.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Tasha Burnette

Tasha Burnette

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPC
4+ years

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Tasha Burnette, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Tasha has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Counseling from Liberty University.

Virginia
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Affirming

We all experience periods in our lives in which we may not have all the answers or make the right choices. At times, we may also feel that no one can understand or relate to us due to our individual differences. My diverse background and resiliency have assisted in my ability to relate to individuals regardless of their socioeconomic status.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Dawn Riley

Dawn Riley

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
8+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Dawn Riley, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Dawn has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) from National University.

Virginia
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Style
Outcome-oriented
Attuned
Collaborative

I work with adolescents, individuals, couples, and families, specializing in anxiety, depression, and communication. My main approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy so that clients get quicker relief from their symptoms.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Cynthia Payne

Cynthia Payne

LPC

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Cynthia Payne, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Cynthia has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University and a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) from Centro de Ensino Superior de Juiz de Fora.

Danville, VA
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Stress
Style
Exploratory
Candid
Supportive

I bring a compassionate, person-centered approach to therapy. My practice is rooted in ethical care, deep empathy, and genuine passion for helping others navigate life's challenges. From our first session, I aim to create a safe, supportive environment where you feel comfortable exploring your thoughts, emotions, and goals.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Alexa Casey

Alexa Casey

LCP
31+ years

Licensed Clinical Psychologists (LCPs), like Alexa Casey, hold a doctoral degree and are trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Alexa has a Doctor of Psychology (PSYD) from Wright State University and a Master's in Counseling (MC) from Eastern Michigan University.

Christiansburg, VA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
Grief
Life Transitions
Style
Exploratory
Candid
Collaborative

I'm very approachable, but I am very task and process-oriented in treatment. I am a systems thinker. In my opinion, therapy provides support and tools, and I appreciate being present with it all.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Melissa Woods

Melissa Woods

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCP
27+ years

Licensed Clinical Psychologists (LCPs), like Melissa Woods, hold a doctoral degree and are trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Melissa has a Doctor of Psychology (PSYD) from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and a Masters of Education (MED) in Counseling and Development from George Mason University.

Virginia
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Insightful
Warm
Collaborative

As a clinician, I enjoy the collaborative navigation of lived experiences in service of cultivating a better quality and more fulfilling life.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Shureka Guinoo

Shureka Guinoo

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW
2+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Shureka Guinoo, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Shureka has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Trauma from Widener University School of Social Work.

Virginia
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

I specialize in helping clients of all ages navigate stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, and trauma. My approach is holistic and person-centered, tailoring therapy to meet each individual's unique needs.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ryan Randall

Ryan Randall

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCP

Licensed Clinical Psychologists (LCPs), like Ryan Randall, hold a doctoral degree and are trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Ryan has a Doctor of Psychology (PSYD) Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School at Washington DC..

Williamsburg, VA
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Collaborative

I provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy to help you navigate life's challenges. Together, we'll build resilience, improve your relationships, and find a greater sense of peace and purpose.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Nailah Cook

Nailah Cook

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW
13+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Nailah Cook, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Nailah has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Radford University.

Virginia
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Outcome-oriented
Warm
Motivational

I utilize a comprehensive approach to treatment based on the unique needs of each individual. I believe in a strong therapeutic alliance that results in success for my clients.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Kristen Ellis Strickler

Kristen Ellis Strickler

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPC

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Kristen Ellis Strickler, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Kristen has a Masters of Education (MED) in Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Richmond, VA
Specialties
Addiction
Substance Use
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Motivational

I specialize in trauma-related counseling and incorporate EMDR therapy when appropriate. My dedication extends to assisting first responders, and I've collaborated with law enforcement professionals. I also work with individuals affected by substance use and dependence.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ericka Paez

Ericka Paez

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
3+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Ericka Paez, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Ericka has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Community Organizing from San Diego State University.

Virginia
Specialties
Cultural Stress
Depression
Men's Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Style
Directive
Candid
Affirming

I'm a military veteran who served in the 82nd Airborne and spouse of a veteran turned first responder. I bring a multilayered, experienced approach to understanding what you're going through. My family is blended, and we've navigated that dynamic for over a decade.

She truly listens, stays accountable to both me and herself, is up front, honest, and isn't afraid to meet me exactly where I am and go where I need to go. I particularly appreciate her personal touches that make me feel more connected and understood during our sessions. I'm pretty sure she could treat someone with any level of experience in therapy. I, personally, have been at this over 20 years with lots of experience, many modalities, and lots of study. It is difficult for me to find a therapist that can keep up AND wrangle me when necessary, and Ericka is simply a real person that is very good at what she does. So glad I finally found her! I also know that no matter what happens in our professional relationship, perceived positive or negative, we WILL talk through it and she makes it a SAFE place to explore and better understand whatever I'm experiencing. Simply, I feel safe, heard, and appreciated as a person for my struggles and my striving, as a client of Ericka Paez.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Michael Fitzgerald

Michael Fitzgerald

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPC
8+ years

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Michael Fitzgerald, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Michael has a Master of Arts (MA) in Professional Counseling from Liberty University.

Roanoke, VA
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Substance Use
Style
Practical
Approachable
Collaborative

I hold both an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) and a CSAC (Certified Substance Abuse Counselor). I take an innovative, outside-the-box approach to therapy, drawing on techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, person-centered therapy, and solution-focused therapy to help clients achieve their goals.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Reba James

Reba James

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
7+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Reba James, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Reba has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Richmond, VA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Developmental Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Curious

I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions, develop healthy coping strategies, and build resilience. I work collaboratively with clients to help them discover their strengths, improve their wellness, and achieve their goals.

Available virtually

A headshot image of shannon fowler

shannon fowler

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCP
11+ years

Licensed Clinical Psychologists (LCPs), like shannon fowler, hold a doctoral degree and are trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

shannon has a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) clinical psychology from University of Detroit Mercy.

Virginia Beach, VA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Eating Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
Weight Loss
Style
Outcome-oriented
Warm
Collaborative

I’m a Clinical Psychologist (PhD) specializing in trauma, anxiety, depression, and the mind–body impact of stress. My approach is warm, relational, and psychodynamic — I help you understand not just what you’re feeling, but why it keeps happening.

Available virtually

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