Therapists in Los Angeles, CA
![Photo of Brandi S Butler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11bada65-13a7-4b3d-a45d-e82f9653f6ef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brandi S Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066
You have past trauma, current stress, anxiety, or depression that is getting in your way. It could be impacting your relationships, career, or health. You may feel alone, or notice yourself wanting to isolate from the people you care about. You've noticed that you are guarded, and that it's really just time for a change.
You have past trauma, current stress, anxiety, or depression that is getting in your way. It could be impacting your relationships, career, or health. You may feel alone, or notice yourself wanting to isolate from the people you care about. You've noticed that you are guarded, and that it's really just time for a change.
![Photo of Rodrigo Dasilva, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60f92473-e3fa-4bac-a764-a28903462dc0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rodrigo Dasilva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046 (Online Only)
I am currently seeing clients in California and New York and Florida States. I believe Psychotherapy is a collaborative venture that can help people lead a fulfilling life and maintain healthy relationships. In our work together my intention is to create a judgement-free space where I can understand your personal experience and nurture and support you in your journey towards authenticity and change. If you suffer with states of depression, anxiety, or loneliness, or you feel generally dissatisfied with aspects of your life, through our work together we can explore skills and tools that move you toward growth
I am currently seeing clients in California and New York and Florida States. I believe Psychotherapy is a collaborative venture that can help people lead a fulfilling life and maintain healthy relationships. In our work together my intention is to create a judgement-free space where I can understand your personal experience and nurture and support you in your journey towards authenticity and change. If you suffer with states of depression, anxiety, or loneliness, or you feel generally dissatisfied with aspects of your life, through our work together we can explore skills and tools that move you toward growth
![Photo of Ka Vang, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31045cc2-d11d-4a2e-8e98-0e105fa867f7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ka Vang
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034 (Online Only)
I am a bilingual (Hmong and English) licensed therapist. I have experience with individuals struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship problems from various age groups, and multicultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. I am also trained in infant mental health, Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP- a trauma-informed relationship-based approach for parents and young children), and TF-CBT.
I am a bilingual (Hmong and English) licensed therapist. I have experience with individuals struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship problems from various age groups, and multicultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. I am also trained in infant mental health, Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP- a trauma-informed relationship-based approach for parents and young children), and TF-CBT.
![Photo of Sara Kenney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3d91de-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Kenney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have practiced analytically-oriented psychotherapy in Los Angeles for over 25 years. I specialize in working with people in transition personally, professionally, and in their relationships. Our work together can help you to expand your understanding of yourself and how you move through the world, allowing you to find new ways to change and grow. I work with adults and adolescents, individuals and couples.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have practiced analytically-oriented psychotherapy in Los Angeles for over 25 years. I specialize in working with people in transition personally, professionally, and in their relationships. Our work together can help you to expand your understanding of yourself and how you move through the world, allowing you to find new ways to change and grow. I work with adults and adolescents, individuals and couples.
![Photo of Sarah Melan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/508a8e6e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Melan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034
Coming to therapy can feel vulnerable and scary, but it is a brave step towards the life you deserve. I am guided by effective techniques, educated insight, and genuine curiosity. I work to protect and nurture my client's sensitivities, strengths and hopes for a meaningful and fulfilling existence.
Coming to therapy can feel vulnerable and scary, but it is a brave step towards the life you deserve. I am guided by effective techniques, educated insight, and genuine curiosity. I work to protect and nurture my client's sensitivities, strengths and hopes for a meaningful and fulfilling existence.
![Photo of Dr. John Nelson, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25b50d98-8ec6-4b69-be1c-2f479bdbc5d5/2/320x400.png)
Dr. John Nelson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049 (Online Only)
I have a motto that states, “Not everyone needs therapy, but everyone can benefit from therapy.” Your decision to engage in therapy is a great start to prioritizing your mental health, relationships and wellbeing. You live in a fast-paced and ever changing environment that demands you to be many things to many people. Depletion of your physical and emotional reserve can lead to compromised mental and physical health, relationship conflict and an unfulfilled life. As a multi-faceted and high performing individual, you may need to pause and experience balance to prevent or lessen the effects of burnout and exhaustion.
I have a motto that states, “Not everyone needs therapy, but everyone can benefit from therapy.” Your decision to engage in therapy is a great start to prioritizing your mental health, relationships and wellbeing. You live in a fast-paced and ever changing environment that demands you to be many things to many people. Depletion of your physical and emotional reserve can lead to compromised mental and physical health, relationship conflict and an unfulfilled life. As a multi-faceted and high performing individual, you may need to pause and experience balance to prevent or lessen the effects of burnout and exhaustion.
![Photo of Suzan Howe - Expansive Therapy, Counselor in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12c18a40-d7fa-4c0b-ade6-522879493816/1/320x400.jpeg)
Suzan Howe - Expansive Therapy
Counselor, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004 (Online Only)
I tailor my approach to the unique needs and goals of each client. For instance, I integrate cognitive-behavioral strategies to address specific challenges, foster humanistic principles to promote self-discovery, and employ client-centered techniques to enhance the therapeutic alliance.
I tailor my approach to the unique needs and goals of each client. For instance, I integrate cognitive-behavioral strategies to address specific challenges, foster humanistic principles to promote self-discovery, and employ client-centered techniques to enhance the therapeutic alliance.
![Photo of Shina Halavi, Ph.D., Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ede615f5-0301-41fb-a52c-358d0eb87a95/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shina Halavi, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am a neuropsychologist, and I work with children and adults. I provide therapy and neuropsychological assessment. THERAPY: I help individuals struggling with anxiety, stress, behavioral difficulties, and school/work issues. ASSESSMENT: I assess individuals experiencing a variety of issues including ADHD, learning disabilities, academic difficulties, attention issues, thinking/memory problems, and those seeking accommodations for school or standardized tests (SAT, GMAT, LSAT, MCAT...).
I am a neuropsychologist, and I work with children and adults. I provide therapy and neuropsychological assessment. THERAPY: I help individuals struggling with anxiety, stress, behavioral difficulties, and school/work issues. ASSESSMENT: I assess individuals experiencing a variety of issues including ADHD, learning disabilities, academic difficulties, attention issues, thinking/memory problems, and those seeking accommodations for school or standardized tests (SAT, GMAT, LSAT, MCAT...).
![Photo of Bud Leslie, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cd6d72e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bud Leslie
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with two office locations in both South Pasadena and Los Angeles. I use Cognitive/Behavioral therapy to directly address issues you may be dealing with such as Depression, Anxiety, Anger,GLBT issues, Creative Blocks,Relationship problems,Life Transitions to name a few. I believe change begins with awareness and an understanding of how your thoughts effect your feelings and behavior.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with two office locations in both South Pasadena and Los Angeles. I use Cognitive/Behavioral therapy to directly address issues you may be dealing with such as Depression, Anxiety, Anger,GLBT issues, Creative Blocks,Relationship problems,Life Transitions to name a few. I believe change begins with awareness and an understanding of how your thoughts effect your feelings and behavior.
![Photo of Caroline Salz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fa7639d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Salz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Do you feel lonely, sad, anxious, or frustrated with the way things are going in your life? These feelings may get in the way of living your best life, and therapy can help. As your therapist, I will offer you a comfortable space to help you discover your authentic self; leaving behind old patterns and habits that were unhelpful and did not fit who you would ultimately like to be as a person. We will work collaboratively to help you thrive in your career, strengthen relationships, and learn how to tolerate life's difficulties. I am here to support you on this challenging journey!
Do you feel lonely, sad, anxious, or frustrated with the way things are going in your life? These feelings may get in the way of living your best life, and therapy can help. As your therapist, I will offer you a comfortable space to help you discover your authentic self; leaving behind old patterns and habits that were unhelpful and did not fit who you would ultimately like to be as a person. We will work collaboratively to help you thrive in your career, strengthen relationships, and learn how to tolerate life's difficulties. I am here to support you on this challenging journey!
![Photo of Dr. Euna Oh, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7488ee6f-4a24-418f-849a-11c4e00aba0f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Euna Oh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We all have emotional needs to feel understood, accepted, and validated by others. But, seeking support may be more challenging to some of us because of different cultural and ethnic backgrounds, language differences, religious reasons, or other minority status. I went through similar challenges and I have a great passion toward working with people who feel isolated, misunderstood, and disenfranchised . My heart especially goes out to immigrants, racial and ethnic minorities, and international students, although I enjoy working with anyone who has the courage to seek help. I also have an expertise in helping couples and families.
We all have emotional needs to feel understood, accepted, and validated by others. But, seeking support may be more challenging to some of us because of different cultural and ethnic backgrounds, language differences, religious reasons, or other minority status. I went through similar challenges and I have a great passion toward working with people who feel isolated, misunderstood, and disenfranchised . My heart especially goes out to immigrants, racial and ethnic minorities, and international students, although I enjoy working with anyone who has the courage to seek help. I also have an expertise in helping couples and families.
15 Second Videos
Brandi S Butler
Shina Halavi, Ph.D.
Nora R Ghodsian
Keeley Dunn
Maria Vogel
Sierra Gruca - Open Space Therapy Collective
Kristen Gardenhire Mihara
Christina A Castro
Nikki Lewis
Larissa House
Spencer Scott
Marie Diaz
Richard Trammel
Here Counseling
Tanya Vivas
Justin Mink
Becky White
Jared Anderson
Keturah McClendon Baker
Amanda Neiman
Seung-Wan Choi
Kevin Brody
Sergio Ocampo
Thomas J. Pier Therapy
Marcus Brittain Fleming
Alessandra Rizzotti
Irene Rubaum-Keller
John Buse
Jaimesha Ferrell
Nicole Minor - Expansive Therapy
Framework Associates
Chandler Sims Chang
Jesse Spiegel
Kiara Norwood
Ailsa M Long
Caline Nasr
Roz Hedayatian
Amrita K Kataria
Stephanie R Baron
Todd Deutsch
Dani Coleman
Don ( Dr Don ) Etkes
VI Negrete
Avery Williams - Transpersonal Counseling
The Pink Moon Healing Collective
Ashley Merriman
Dr. Holiday Healing Psychology
Alexia Holovatyk
Quinney & Associates Inc
Sierra K Briscoe
![Photo of James H Cones III, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc0e510-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
James H Cones III
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
"What's madness but nobility of soul at odds with circumstance (Roethke, 1961)." It is likely that you will come to see me because you are suffering. I will help you understand the sources of your pain. Together we will discover how past coping behavior, although understandable and partially sustaining given the challenges of your life, may become limiting and a source of dysfunction. In a safe and professional relationship, I will assist you to change old rigid ways of thinking and behaving to embrace new flexible and balanced responding to foster success.
"What's madness but nobility of soul at odds with circumstance (Roethke, 1961)." It is likely that you will come to see me because you are suffering. I will help you understand the sources of your pain. Together we will discover how past coping behavior, although understandable and partially sustaining given the challenges of your life, may become limiting and a source of dysfunction. In a safe and professional relationship, I will assist you to change old rigid ways of thinking and behaving to embrace new flexible and balanced responding to foster success.
Devin Kowalczyk
Psychologist, PSY
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Dr. Devin Kowalczyk (Dr. K) is a Psychologist in California who has been practicing since 2016. He has a PhD and MA in Clinical Forensic Psychology, an MS in Law Enforcement Intelligence Analysis, and a BA in Psychology. Dr. K's first and foremost job is to help you in whatever form that takes. Dr. K sees the world through his own neurodivergent lens, providing insights that other people don't always see. Maybe your sessions require some challenging of assumptions or working to unlearn bad habits. Maybe you and Dr. K will work on processing trauma or laughing about a great week.
Dr. Devin Kowalczyk (Dr. K) is a Psychologist in California who has been practicing since 2016. He has a PhD and MA in Clinical Forensic Psychology, an MS in Law Enforcement Intelligence Analysis, and a BA in Psychology. Dr. K's first and foremost job is to help you in whatever form that takes. Dr. K sees the world through his own neurodivergent lens, providing insights that other people don't always see. Maybe your sessions require some challenging of assumptions or working to unlearn bad habits. Maybe you and Dr. K will work on processing trauma or laughing about a great week.
![Photo of Kevin Torchen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8febbe37-e428-43a3-8e01-edaedb7d1207/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kevin Torchen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071 (Online Only)
My name is Kevin Torchen and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Masters degree from USC.
My name is Kevin Torchen and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Masters degree from USC.
![Photo of Julisa Lendo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb755509-3043-45dd-a232-edee48c6f807/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julisa Lendo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Client would be coming to work on attachment issues and working on healing their inner child. Client needs validation and developing a better understanding what occurred in their past . Their goals would be to develop better coping mechanism and not relying on others for external validation. Learning to trust and believe in themselves.
Client would be coming to work on attachment issues and working on healing their inner child. Client needs validation and developing a better understanding what occurred in their past . Their goals would be to develop better coping mechanism and not relying on others for external validation. Learning to trust and believe in themselves.
![Photo of Nora R Ghodsian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70dc3240-b824-48e9-ad7a-58255c36d0dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nora R Ghodsian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
How we live every moment of our personal and/or professional lives is a matter of CHOICE. Feeling shameful, fearful, anxious, unworthy, low in mood, bitter, snappy, moody, lonely; or working towards feeling and being lively, caring, friendly, free, assertive, productive and joyous. The work is hard, but easier than being stuck in misery. Artificial constraints weighs us down, dragging us into the dark places of hopelessness, helplessness, powerlessness, victimhood, and many other negative feelings and behaviors (anger, depression, meanness, worthlessness, isolation...) blocking our way to sense of wellbeing and JOY.
How we live every moment of our personal and/or professional lives is a matter of CHOICE. Feeling shameful, fearful, anxious, unworthy, low in mood, bitter, snappy, moody, lonely; or working towards feeling and being lively, caring, friendly, free, assertive, productive and joyous. The work is hard, but easier than being stuck in misery. Artificial constraints weighs us down, dragging us into the dark places of hopelessness, helplessness, powerlessness, victimhood, and many other negative feelings and behaviors (anger, depression, meanness, worthlessness, isolation...) blocking our way to sense of wellbeing and JOY.
![Photo of Kate Maher, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e714da4-aaf4-4638-b456-bc37d9f56c9b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kate Maher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
Not accepting new clients
My first goal in therapy is to build a secure and trusting relationship with you, creating a safe environment where you feel seen and inspired to curiously encounter the multiple layers of your experiences. I approach the work with cultural humility and an anti-oppressive framework that supports individuals and couples in all stages of life facing issues with relationship distress, grief and loss, depression or moodiness, trauma, addictions, eating disorders, anxiety, anger issues, self-defeating behaviors, phobias, obsessive thoughts, and challenges with sexuality, career, spirituality, or other life stressors.
My first goal in therapy is to build a secure and trusting relationship with you, creating a safe environment where you feel seen and inspired to curiously encounter the multiple layers of your experiences. I approach the work with cultural humility and an anti-oppressive framework that supports individuals and couples in all stages of life facing issues with relationship distress, grief and loss, depression or moodiness, trauma, addictions, eating disorders, anxiety, anger issues, self-defeating behaviors, phobias, obsessive thoughts, and challenges with sexuality, career, spirituality, or other life stressors.
![Photo of Cindy J Stanberry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4488643d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cindy J Stanberry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034
I provide a safe environment in which to explore and develop insight into patterns in your life. I am a Certified Jungian Analyst, working from a Jungian-oriented perspective, helping to develop a relationship between the conscious and unconscious. People often seek a therapist due to a crisis, or possibly because they've developed an awareness that something is not working in their lives anymore. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of yourself, so that you can change old patterns and live your life with integrity, authenticity and meaning. Thus, our work becomes a practice that tends to soul.
I provide a safe environment in which to explore and develop insight into patterns in your life. I am a Certified Jungian Analyst, working from a Jungian-oriented perspective, helping to develop a relationship between the conscious and unconscious. People often seek a therapist due to a crisis, or possibly because they've developed an awareness that something is not working in their lives anymore. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of yourself, so that you can change old patterns and live your life with integrity, authenticity and meaning. Thus, our work becomes a practice that tends to soul.
![Photo of Jeremy Bailey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1f8897e-3a07-4784-a711-f50c7c97719f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeremy Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90003
My name is Jeremy D. Bailey and I am a licensed clinical social worker in the State of California. I have 14 years of extensive clinical experience working with people from a diversity of backgrounds and ages in both public and private settings. My focus is assisting people with trauma, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), depression/mood disorders, suicidal thoughts, LGBTQI+ issues, and adjustment disorders, grief/loss, job stress, and more. I utilize aspects of cognitive/dialectical behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, solution focused, psycho-dynamic, mindfulness, attachment theory, and motivational interviewing.
My name is Jeremy D. Bailey and I am a licensed clinical social worker in the State of California. I have 14 years of extensive clinical experience working with people from a diversity of backgrounds and ages in both public and private settings. My focus is assisting people with trauma, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), depression/mood disorders, suicidal thoughts, LGBTQI+ issues, and adjustment disorders, grief/loss, job stress, and more. I utilize aspects of cognitive/dialectical behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, solution focused, psycho-dynamic, mindfulness, attachment theory, and motivational interviewing.
![Photo of Dan Small, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8823dc26-a9ef-49ba-836d-f774c6a1b7ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dan Small
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, JD, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034 (Online Only)
How do we feel more connected to ourselves, and to others? How do feel valuable and worthy and draw healthy boundaries to protect that self-worth? And what's getting in the way of that? Those are some of the questions I think everyone is asking. Our chatty minds have collected information and drawn conclusions about who we are and what we're worth. So much has been inherited by our parents and culture. Therapy helps make sense of it all and see ourselves with clarity and compassion. The goal is to transform the way you feel and experience everyday life.
How do we feel more connected to ourselves, and to others? How do feel valuable and worthy and draw healthy boundaries to protect that self-worth? And what's getting in the way of that? Those are some of the questions I think everyone is asking. Our chatty minds have collected information and drawn conclusions about who we are and what we're worth. So much has been inherited by our parents and culture. Therapy helps make sense of it all and see ourselves with clarity and compassion. The goal is to transform the way you feel and experience everyday life.
See more therapy options for Los Angeles
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Los Angeles, CA
3,000+
Average cost per session
$175
Therapists in Los Angeles, CA who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
74% | Self Esteem |
72% | Relationship Issues |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
65% | Coping Skills |
63% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
76% | Aetna |
69% | Cigna and Evernorth |
68% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Los Angeles, CA see their clients
56% | In Person and Online | |
44% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
21% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Los Angeles?
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.