Therapists in 29207
![Photo of Shamiquia Nikia McPherson - Clear Vision Counseling, LLC., LPC-SC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94ef1326-a055-48e4-9c6c-d8734b6dbc6e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Clear Vision Counseling, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-SC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29207
Vision is the capability of thinking or planning a path to one’s future using wisdom and positive imagination. Our vision is often clouded by many things. It can be clouded by memories of traumatic experiences, depressive negative cognitions/thoughts, the loss of loved ones or unexpected life changes. It can also be clouded by uncontrolled worry about the future we imagine for ourselves. Here at Clear Vision Counseling, LLC. Our primary goal is to help our client’s build their vision, which requires healing parts of the past, while using wisdom to change behaviors and thoughts about the future.
Vision is the capability of thinking or planning a path to one’s future using wisdom and positive imagination. Our vision is often clouded by many things. It can be clouded by memories of traumatic experiences, depressive negative cognitions/thoughts, the loss of loved ones or unexpected life changes. It can also be clouded by uncontrolled worry about the future we imagine for ourselves. Here at Clear Vision Counseling, LLC. Our primary goal is to help our client’s build their vision, which requires healing parts of the past, while using wisdom to change behaviors and thoughts about the future.
![Photo of Deana Tucker - Deana Tucker, MA, LPCS, LPC, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68c0ea02-cb67-4509-a76a-a3fb281acba4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Deana Tucker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29207
Deana Tucker is a native of South Carolina and has worked in human services/helping profession for over 15 years. Deana is a Clinical Counselor, a Certified Addictions Counselor II for the state of South Carolina, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and well as a Grief Recovery Specialist. Deana has experience with providing services in outpatient, home, and residential settings. She has helped individuals work vital life issues that include of depression, anxiety, self-esteem, decision making, grief, anger / behavioral / and crisis management. Qualified in addictions and experience with Trauma Focused CBT, CBT, DBT and EMDR.
Deana Tucker is a native of South Carolina and has worked in human services/helping profession for over 15 years. Deana is a Clinical Counselor, a Certified Addictions Counselor II for the state of South Carolina, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and well as a Grief Recovery Specialist. Deana has experience with providing services in outpatient, home, and residential settings. She has helped individuals work vital life issues that include of depression, anxiety, self-esteem, decision making, grief, anger / behavioral / and crisis management. Qualified in addictions and experience with Trauma Focused CBT, CBT, DBT and EMDR.
![Photo of Maria 'marrionettia' Parker, LPC, EdS, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e48f77e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maria 'marrionettia' Parker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29207 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am an interpersonal therapist who worked for 4 years in a college counseling center and have been working out of my private practice since 2010. While my overarching approach is interpersonal, I utilize other theories as needed. Cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and emotionally focused therapy are examples of the other schools from which I pull. Clients are not a "one size fits all." Before becoming a therapist, I taught school for twenty years. I feel fortunate to have been able to work in two especially gratifying helping fields.
I am an interpersonal therapist who worked for 4 years in a college counseling center and have been working out of my private practice since 2010. While my overarching approach is interpersonal, I utilize other theories as needed. Cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and emotionally focused therapy are examples of the other schools from which I pull. Clients are not a "one size fits all." Before becoming a therapist, I taught school for twenty years. I feel fortunate to have been able to work in two especially gratifying helping fields.
![Photo of Michele Burnette - Psychology Services Center, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40c52968-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Psychology Services Center (PSC) provides comprehensive quality mental health care including assessment and therapy services for adults, children, adolescents, families, and couples. We have a history of helping clients learn to cope with stress, depression, or anxiety, address their children's behavioral or learning difficulties, or improve communication and trust in their relationships. Across all of these treatment areas, our center values providing quality, outcome-oriented services that are based on the latest science, offered within a caring and collaborative atmosphere.
The Psychology Services Center (PSC) provides comprehensive quality mental health care including assessment and therapy services for adults, children, adolescents, families, and couples. We have a history of helping clients learn to cope with stress, depression, or anxiety, address their children's behavioral or learning difficulties, or improve communication and trust in their relationships. Across all of these treatment areas, our center values providing quality, outcome-oriented services that are based on the latest science, offered within a caring and collaborative atmosphere.
Pansy Lavonne Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhDABD, MEd, LPC, MS, LBSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29207
There are times when talking with your best friend about your problems is not enough. Because friends are just friends they are not professionally trained in helping you to identify deep rooted issues. If, you're experiencing self-defeating thoughts, low self-esteem, feeling worthless, dealing with a sick love one, employment issues and substance abuse issues. That is robbing you of your inner peace making it difficult for you to establish and maintain healthy relationships with your family, friends and work relationships. Give me a call.
There are times when talking with your best friend about your problems is not enough. Because friends are just friends they are not professionally trained in helping you to identify deep rooted issues. If, you're experiencing self-defeating thoughts, low self-esteem, feeling worthless, dealing with a sick love one, employment issues and substance abuse issues. That is robbing you of your inner peace making it difficult for you to establish and maintain healthy relationships with your family, friends and work relationships. Give me a call.
![Photo of Breanna Butler, LCMHC, QS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c340837a-ed56-43af-bb3f-cfbc6ccec9ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Breanna Butler
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, QS
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29207 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Finding a safe space to navigate diverse relationships, sexual experiences, and wavering moods can be challenging but also rewarding. You may want to explore different relationship dynamics without judgment. You may want uncover your own secrets in order to show up more whole for yourself and others. If you are ready to take action and uncover your best self, then it is time to begin your therapeutic journey.
Finding a safe space to navigate diverse relationships, sexual experiences, and wavering moods can be challenging but also rewarding. You may want to explore different relationship dynamics without judgment. You may want uncover your own secrets in order to show up more whole for yourself and others. If you are ready to take action and uncover your best self, then it is time to begin your therapeutic journey.
![Photo of Jerry Waldrop, MDiv, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/543cc13f-1f51-47c4-a200-2dfe69587248/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jerry Waldrop
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29207
Tired of feeling stuck, misunderstood, & disconnected? Get help today! I am part of Foundations Family Life Counseling and Consulting (FFLCC). At FFLCC we focus on topics such as life adjustments, depression, anxiety, relationship / family issues, and trauma. We specialize in trauma and childhood attachment issues, working to resolve big or little traumas or negative experiences which tend to impede emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual growth. We focus on healing rather than just coping, by finding and resolving underlaying issues. I specialize with Military Families and have served in the Armed Forces for many years.
Tired of feeling stuck, misunderstood, & disconnected? Get help today! I am part of Foundations Family Life Counseling and Consulting (FFLCC). At FFLCC we focus on topics such as life adjustments, depression, anxiety, relationship / family issues, and trauma. We specialize in trauma and childhood attachment issues, working to resolve big or little traumas or negative experiences which tend to impede emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual growth. We focus on healing rather than just coping, by finding and resolving underlaying issues. I specialize with Military Families and have served in the Armed Forces for many years.
![Photo of Dr. Tara M Tanksley Stallings, MAPC, MCCLC, BCMHC, DPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70a7d35e-f854-48a9-8d27-ece50cd5fafe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Destiny Life Management Group is a Counseling, Coaching, and Consulting Group. We have a staff of highly trained and certified experts in their fields, who offer a non-traditional approach for people who are perplexed in managing their life, because of; Anxiety, Depression, Trauma healing, Mental health, Coping skills, Stress, Spiritual, Relationships, Marriage and Grief and Loss issues. We are a Bridge of Peace, Privacy and Confidentiality from the Stigmas associated with traditional Mental Health and Spiritual Counseling Services. We also offer Business and Financial Consulting, Anger Management, Grief, Divorce Coaching and more
Destiny Life Management Group is a Counseling, Coaching, and Consulting Group. We have a staff of highly trained and certified experts in their fields, who offer a non-traditional approach for people who are perplexed in managing their life, because of; Anxiety, Depression, Trauma healing, Mental health, Coping skills, Stress, Spiritual, Relationships, Marriage and Grief and Loss issues. We are a Bridge of Peace, Privacy and Confidentiality from the Stigmas associated with traditional Mental Health and Spiritual Counseling Services. We also offer Business and Financial Consulting, Anger Management, Grief, Divorce Coaching and more
![Photo of Lynne Fish, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff9e7ff4-a318-461e-b566-96a04266f019/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lynne Fish is a Psychologist in South Carolina who has been practicing since 1999. She received a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1998 and already had gained a Master's Degree in Religious Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Since that time, she has sought further trainings in various therapies, such as EMDR, DBT, and hypnosis in order to help people more effectively. Life brings struggles to us all at times; Dr. Fish loves helping people move beyond these and toward a brighter future and is blessed by God to do this work.
Dr. Lynne Fish is a Psychologist in South Carolina who has been practicing since 1999. She received a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1998 and already had gained a Master's Degree in Religious Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Since that time, she has sought further trainings in various therapies, such as EMDR, DBT, and hypnosis in order to help people more effectively. Life brings struggles to us all at times; Dr. Fish loves helping people move beyond these and toward a brighter future and is blessed by God to do this work.
![Photo of Sarah Zell, MSW, LISW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64a91504-13c8-4e79-96a8-79964ee8fb08/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Zell is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Clinical Practice in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2023. Sarah is committed to helping clients learn how to live happier, more fulfilling lives and maintain better relationships with their friends and family members. Her work focuses on identifying ineffective behaviors, errors in thinking patterns, unproductive habits, and false beliefs, so they can be addressed appropriately. Sarah believes in taking a collaborative, clientcentered approach, focusing on honesty, respect, and empowerment to help clients reach their goals.
Sarah Zell is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Clinical Practice in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2023. Sarah is committed to helping clients learn how to live happier, more fulfilling lives and maintain better relationships with their friends and family members. Her work focuses on identifying ineffective behaviors, errors in thinking patterns, unproductive habits, and false beliefs, so they can be addressed appropriately. Sarah believes in taking a collaborative, clientcentered approach, focusing on honesty, respect, and empowerment to help clients reach their goals.
![Photo of Patricia Simmons, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/748ba0b2-9f4e-4535-bab8-51259adb3af5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Trish Simmons, LISW-CP Trish Simmons is a Licensed Independent Social Worker in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2014. She has an MSW from Southern CT State University and a BSW from Providence College. Trish believes in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solutions Focused therapies as primary therapies but chooses the therapy that best supports the client's needs. In her spare time, Trish enjoys playing golf, traveling, reading, watching movies, and spending time with her husband of almost 30 years and their two grown children.
Trish Simmons, LISW-CP Trish Simmons is a Licensed Independent Social Worker in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2014. She has an MSW from Southern CT State University and a BSW from Providence College. Trish believes in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solutions Focused therapies as primary therapies but chooses the therapy that best supports the client's needs. In her spare time, Trish enjoys playing golf, traveling, reading, watching movies, and spending time with her husband of almost 30 years and their two grown children.
15 Second Videos
Clear Vision Counseling, LLC.
Tara M Tanksley Stallings
A+ Supportive Services
Rise Alone Therapy
![Photo of Niral Patel, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8dd29354-cd7a-4154-8d87-076541747a53/1/320x400.jpeg)
Niral Patel is a clinical psychologist who completed her doctoral degree at an APA accredited institution, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Washington, D.C. Niral enjoys working with the adolescent and adult populations in treating mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, ADHD/ADD, panic disorders, interpersonal conflict, adjustment issues and life transitions, and personality disorders. Niral primarily uses cognitive and behavioral techniques to help clients, while integrating dialectical and other therapies in her sessions.
Niral Patel is a clinical psychologist who completed her doctoral degree at an APA accredited institution, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Washington, D.C. Niral enjoys working with the adolescent and adult populations in treating mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, ADHD/ADD, panic disorders, interpersonal conflict, adjustment issues and life transitions, and personality disorders. Niral primarily uses cognitive and behavioral techniques to help clients, while integrating dialectical and other therapies in her sessions.
![Photo of Maura Castellanos, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fef9ae3-9c38-4fea-b3fc-c587e8ae2a31/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Maura Castellanos, better known as Dr. Mo, is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 10 years of experience in mental health. She earned her undergraduate degree from Nova Southeastern University, where she majored in Psychology and minored in Substance Abuse Studies. She earned both a Masters and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. She completed her pre-doctoral internship as well her postdoctoral experience in a forensic secure treatment area at Porterville Developmental Center in Porterville, CA.
Dr. Maura Castellanos, better known as Dr. Mo, is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 10 years of experience in mental health. She earned her undergraduate degree from Nova Southeastern University, where she majored in Psychology and minored in Substance Abuse Studies. She earned both a Masters and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. She completed her pre-doctoral internship as well her postdoctoral experience in a forensic secure treatment area at Porterville Developmental Center in Porterville, CA.
![Photo of Tiffany Johnson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e38d4e9c-8e0e-44f5-a474-262ce7a9474d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany Johnson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Master of Arts in Counseling. Life can be very unpredictable. Things can get hectic, and you may need some help with sorting it all out. This is where Tiffany comes in! Tiffany is skilled in the area of counseling and understands the gap between the client and resources. She is all about bridging the gap. Tiffany provides a safe, nonjudgmental environment, which allows you to freely express your emotions. Her passion is working with individuals that experience anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Tiffany Johnson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2019. She has a Master of Arts in Counseling. Life can be very unpredictable. Things can get hectic, and you may need some help with sorting it all out. This is where Tiffany comes in! Tiffany is skilled in the area of counseling and understands the gap between the client and resources. She is all about bridging the gap. Tiffany provides a safe, nonjudgmental environment, which allows you to freely express your emotions. Her passion is working with individuals that experience anxiety, depression, and trauma.
![Photo of Christopher Jones, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/586b4d5a-d98e-4d6f-8352-755564f0735c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jones graduated cum laude from St. Leo College with a B.A. in psychology. He earned his master's degree in clinical/community psychology at Francis Marion University. After working at the master's level to gain clinical experience , Dr. Jones returned to school to earn his doctorate. He graduated with distinction from Carlos Albizu University in Miami, Florida in 2003 where he focused on neuropsychology and neuropsychological assessment. While in Miami, Dr. Jones completed a two-year practicum in neuropsychological assessment at Mt. Sinai Medical Center through the University of Miami's School of Medicine.
Dr. Jones graduated cum laude from St. Leo College with a B.A. in psychology. He earned his master's degree in clinical/community psychology at Francis Marion University. After working at the master's level to gain clinical experience , Dr. Jones returned to school to earn his doctorate. He graduated with distinction from Carlos Albizu University in Miami, Florida in 2003 where he focused on neuropsychology and neuropsychological assessment. While in Miami, Dr. Jones completed a two-year practicum in neuropsychological assessment at Mt. Sinai Medical Center through the University of Miami's School of Medicine.
![Photo of Darius Poitier, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d097766-9bf0-4165-886f-b6f57269e397/2/320x400.jpeg)
Darius Poitier has over 20 years experience working in the social services industry. He has worked in clinical practice settings including outpatient, intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, inpatient, and residential treatment. Darius also has experience in clinical counseling, Christian counseling, and substance abuse treatment and case management Originally from South Florida, Darius earned a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) from Lynn University in 2004 as well as a Masters of Social Work (MSW) from Barry University in 2014.
Darius Poitier has over 20 years experience working in the social services industry. He has worked in clinical practice settings including outpatient, intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, inpatient, and residential treatment. Darius also has experience in clinical counseling, Christian counseling, and substance abuse treatment and case management Originally from South Florida, Darius earned a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) from Lynn University in 2004 as well as a Masters of Social Work (MSW) from Barry University in 2014.
![Photo of Erin Puro, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b4f0e0a-5af9-463c-a97b-fddf7760e6bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Puro is a fully licensed clinical psychologist. She is a native of Michigan and completed her undergraduate degree at Michigan State University. Erin completed her PhD at Eastern Michigan University and her doctoral internship at the University of Michigan Institute of Human Adjustment. Erin completed her postdoctoral internship at the University of South Carolina Counseling and Human Development Center. She currently works with adult clients and couples (ages 18 and up).
Erin Puro is a fully licensed clinical psychologist. She is a native of Michigan and completed her undergraduate degree at Michigan State University. Erin completed her PhD at Eastern Michigan University and her doctoral internship at the University of Michigan Institute of Human Adjustment. Erin completed her postdoctoral internship at the University of South Carolina Counseling and Human Development Center. She currently works with adult clients and couples (ages 18 and up).
![Photo of Stephanie L McKenny, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edfc7ae0-944d-41c4-9e70-be406510c428/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie L. McKenny is a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2021. She has a BA in Child and Family Studies from Columbia College and a Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Webster University. Stephanie is truly excited about being able to serve you in your time of need. She has experience working with individuals with anxiety, depression, anger management, relational issues, building self-esteem and confidence, trauma, and grief. Stephanie enjoys working with older teens, young adults, and adults. Life has created many experiences for all of us.
Stephanie L. McKenny is a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2021. She has a BA in Child and Family Studies from Columbia College and a Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Webster University. Stephanie is truly excited about being able to serve you in your time of need. She has experience working with individuals with anxiety, depression, anger management, relational issues, building self-esteem and confidence, trauma, and grief. Stephanie enjoys working with older teens, young adults, and adults. Life has created many experiences for all of us.
![Photo of Anchetta Sutton - A+ Supportive Services, EdS, LCSW, CSAM, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb7e3351-7086-4c69-a942-63b62d575dd6/2/320x400.jpeg)
A+ Supportive Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdS, LCSW, CSAM, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29207 (Online Only)
Change your thoughts and you change your world were words of wisdom spoken so eloquently by Norman Vincent Peale. I believe our thoughts, the manner in which we process our surroundings, have great impact on our emotions and are the root of our actions. I believe awareness of our thoughts and how we choose to process them can change the trajectory of our outcomes. I have experience working with women before, during, and after pregnancy, and working with patients with new and/or chronic medical diagnoses. I also have experience working with foster care, adoptions, birth mothers, and potential adoptive parents.
Change your thoughts and you change your world were words of wisdom spoken so eloquently by Norman Vincent Peale. I believe our thoughts, the manner in which we process our surroundings, have great impact on our emotions and are the root of our actions. I believe awareness of our thoughts and how we choose to process them can change the trajectory of our outcomes. I have experience working with women before, during, and after pregnancy, and working with patients with new and/or chronic medical diagnoses. I also have experience working with foster care, adoptions, birth mothers, and potential adoptive parents.
![Photo of Alan Brailsford de Lopez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/519d3494-e0aa-4f71-88ba-52680d5aa0e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
For as long as you can remember, you’ve felt different. You learned early on that to avoid ostracization and torment, you had to hide parts of yourself. Now, you’re an adult and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, but things still aren’t easy. You still have residual shame from years of concealing your true self. And the simple act of living authentically in a society dictated by heteronormative standards makes you feel like an outcast. Over the years, you’ve unwittingly internalized people’s judgments and have started harshly criticizing yourself. You wish there were a way to live free of this pain, but you don’t know how.
For as long as you can remember, you’ve felt different. You learned early on that to avoid ostracization and torment, you had to hide parts of yourself. Now, you’re an adult and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, but things still aren’t easy. You still have residual shame from years of concealing your true self. And the simple act of living authentically in a society dictated by heteronormative standards makes you feel like an outcast. Over the years, you’ve unwittingly internalized people’s judgments and have started harshly criticizing yourself. You wish there were a way to live free of this pain, but you don’t know how.
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in 29207
20+
Average cost per session
$140
Therapists in 29207 who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Life Transitions |
66% | Grief |
55% | Relationship Issues |
52% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Aetna |
85% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
77% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Therapists in 29207 see their clients
80% | In Person and Online | |
20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in 29207?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.