Connect with Therapists who accept Optum in Virginia

Book a session as soon as April 18

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 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
Cultural Stress
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 Shareela Allen

Shareela Allen

LCSW

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

Shareela has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, San Bernardino.

Virginia
Specialties
Cultural Stress
Anxiety
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Self Esteem
Style
Outcome-oriented
Candid
Collaborative

I specialize in helping individuals navigate life transitions, anxiety, depression, narcissism, codependency, people-pleasing, and trauma. My approach is client-centered and collaborative, tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Irene Ervin Bullock

Irene Ervin Bullock

LCSW

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

Irene has a Master of Science (MS) from Columbia University.

Richmond, VA
Specialties
Cultural Stress
Aging
Life Transitions
Spirituality
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Directive
Spiritual
Curious

Emotions like anger, sadness, or worry can feel overwhelming when life becomes uncertain. In therapy, I can help clients uncover what's beneath those feelings and find peace through understanding, compassion, and faith. I work with Veterans, older adults, and individuals facing trauma, life transitions, or spiritual challenges.

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
Cultural Stress
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 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
Cultural Stress
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 Violetta Battle

Violetta Battle

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW
32+ years

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

Violetta has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Maryland.

Virginia
Specialties
Cultural Stress
Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
Self Esteem
Stress
Style
Outcome-oriented
Gentle
Motivational

I help individuals navigate relationship difficulties, family conflicts, caregiving challenges, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues. My goal is to support you through life's challenges with warmth and understanding.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Zalene Burleson

Zalene Burleson

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPC

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

Zalene has a Master of Science (MS) in Art Therapy and Counceling from Eastern Virginia Medical School.

Chesapeake, VA
Specialties
Cultural Stress
Addiction
Grief
Life Transitions
Substance Use
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Candid
Collaborative

I help people find their way through tough times, whether you're grappling with trauma, navigating addiction, facing a major life transition, or struggling with the loss of a loved one. I believe in your inherent strengths and use a humanistic approach, integrating art-making if you choose, to empower you to create positive change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ramfis Marquez-Castillo

Ramfis Marquez-Castillo

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPC
12+ years

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

Ramfis has a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) in Clinical Psychology from Walden University.

Bristow, VA
Specialties
Cultural Stress
Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Curious

I’m an LPC with over 20 years of experience. I’m here to support you in finding balance and clarity in your life, helping you uncover your strengths and work toward your personal goals. We’ll explore ways to manage life’s challenges together, whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, or simply looking to improve your overall well-being.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Joseph Autry

Joseph Autry

LPC
5+ years

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

Joseph has a Master in Counseling (MC) from Liberty University.

Abingdon, VA
Specialties
Cultural Stress
Anxiety
Depression
Substance Use
Suicidal Ideation
Style
Directive
Attuned
Collaborative

In our first session, we'll discover what your struggles are. From there, we can discover the causes of those struggles and work on the best ways to cope with them.

Joseph takes the time to make sure I feel heard, acknowledged my successes, and guides me through the tougher weeks. He’s consistent, which is super important to me. He’s also very kind and patient.

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
Cultural Stress
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 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

This set of providers was curated just for you.

Want personalized assistance finding the right fit? Call or text our team at 323-745-8323.