Therapists in Long Beach, CA

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Photo of Quincy Singleton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Quincy Singleton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I enjoy working with challenging situations and helping people put a name to their experience and identify effective ways to improve it. I blend the humanist and existential approach with other therapeutic approaches (e.g. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy) to help people find meaning and purpose in life, address barriers that impede growth, and learn practical tools to enhance their life experience. I place a high priority on tailoring treatment to meet the needs of my clients so we can work together in accomplishing treatment goals.
I enjoy working with challenging situations and helping people put a name to their experience and identify effective ways to improve it. I blend the humanist and existential approach with other therapeutic approaches (e.g. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy) to help people find meaning and purpose in life, address barriers that impede growth, and learn practical tools to enhance their life experience. I place a high priority on tailoring treatment to meet the needs of my clients so we can work together in accomplishing treatment goals.
(510) 694-0328 View (510) 694-0328
Photo of Sara Medina, MA, ASW
Sara Medina
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MA, ASW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
Hi there! I am a therapist who is adept at cultivating a warm and secure environment for my clients, allowing them space to safely explore and process difficult thoughts, feelings, and behavioral patterns. Through genuine rapport, a sensitivity to the unique needs of each client, and deep clinical expertise, I assists my clients to develop healthy and productive coping skills, communicate effectively with others, and establish a positive and gratifying self-concept. I have specialized training in trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief.
Hi there! I am a therapist who is adept at cultivating a warm and secure environment for my clients, allowing them space to safely explore and process difficult thoughts, feelings, and behavioral patterns. Through genuine rapport, a sensitivity to the unique needs of each client, and deep clinical expertise, I assists my clients to develop healthy and productive coping skills, communicate effectively with others, and establish a positive and gratifying self-concept. I have specialized training in trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief.
(562) 837-0021 View (562) 837-0021
Photo of Craig D Kain, PhD, Psychologist
Craig D Kain
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Having worked with clients for 20+ years, I understand that the decision to enter into therapy is not one to be taken lightly. I know that when people have questions in their lives, they want answers and they want them as quickly as possible. My goal is to help people -- men and women, straight and gay, young and old -- live fulfiling lives free from stress, depression and anxiety. I work with individuals and couples and have morning, afternoon and evening appointments available. I am also available for online sessions so you can see me from your home or office.
Having worked with clients for 20+ years, I understand that the decision to enter into therapy is not one to be taken lightly. I know that when people have questions in their lives, they want answers and they want them as quickly as possible. My goal is to help people -- men and women, straight and gay, young and old -- live fulfiling lives free from stress, depression and anxiety. I work with individuals and couples and have morning, afternoon and evening appointments available. I am also available for online sessions so you can see me from your home or office.
(562) 354-8763 View (562) 354-8763
Photo of Coriann Papazian, MA LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Coriann Papazian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
It takes an immense amount of strength and courage to reach out and take an active role in making changes. I honor where you are at and understand that you are the expert of your own life. Life can take its toll and feel overwhelming. A lot can feel out of our control. The good thing is we are never alone, even if it feels that way. I greatly value collaborative and strengths-based approaches, striving to work together to reach your goals. I see individuals and families on a variety of relational issues. We are all impacted by our family, responsibilities, circumstances, you name it.
It takes an immense amount of strength and courage to reach out and take an active role in making changes. I honor where you are at and understand that you are the expert of your own life. Life can take its toll and feel overwhelming. A lot can feel out of our control. The good thing is we are never alone, even if it feels that way. I greatly value collaborative and strengths-based approaches, striving to work together to reach your goals. I see individuals and families on a variety of relational issues. We are all impacted by our family, responsibilities, circumstances, you name it.
(562) 352-2252 View (562) 352-2252
Photo of Brandy Dunn, PsyD, Psychologist
Brandy Dunn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
(424) 344-5192 View (424) 344-5192
Photo of Stephanie Bornstein, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Bornstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you unhappy with the way things in your life have been going? Do you experience emotions that cause you to feel out of control? This can be very frustrating and overwhelming. Unfortunately, many people have not been taught how to regulate intense emotions, and it can be difficult navigating life when we don’t feel like we are in the driver’s seat. What would it be like to learn new skills and perspectives that could lead you to achieve the life you have always imagined? As a therapist, I have worked with many individuals struggling with acceptance, managing intense emotions, intrusive thoughts, and interpersonal communication.
Are you unhappy with the way things in your life have been going? Do you experience emotions that cause you to feel out of control? This can be very frustrating and overwhelming. Unfortunately, many people have not been taught how to regulate intense emotions, and it can be difficult navigating life when we don’t feel like we are in the driver’s seat. What would it be like to learn new skills and perspectives that could lead you to achieve the life you have always imagined? As a therapist, I have worked with many individuals struggling with acceptance, managing intense emotions, intrusive thoughts, and interpersonal communication.
(657) 837-2570 View (657) 837-2570
Photo of Tiffaney Hale, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tiffaney Hale
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide psychotherapy primarily to individuals and couples. I have in-depth training in relational therapy, as well as trauma and post-traumatic symptoms. I have worked extensively in the GLBTQ community, and with non-traditional couples and families. I can help with life transitions, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, and relationship struggles. Feel free to call or email if you would like to schedule an initial consultation.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide psychotherapy primarily to individuals and couples. I have in-depth training in relational therapy, as well as trauma and post-traumatic symptoms. I have worked extensively in the GLBTQ community, and with non-traditional couples and families. I can help with life transitions, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, and relationship struggles. Feel free to call or email if you would like to schedule an initial consultation.
(323) 310-2118 View (323) 310-2118
Photo of Chloe Ragusa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chloe Ragusa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm Chloe Ragusa, an LCSW based in SoCal. I am an eclectic therapist and use techniques from many different schools of thought to provide care tailored to each of my client's needs. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community and am proud to be part of it. I use an eclectic approach to therapy. Each person is a unique and complex blend of emotions and experiences, and I believe the techniques I use should be fitted to the person rather than taking a "one size fits all" approach. I like to let my client set the tone, and weave technique into our session so that the focus is on the person and not the treatment type.
I'm Chloe Ragusa, an LCSW based in SoCal. I am an eclectic therapist and use techniques from many different schools of thought to provide care tailored to each of my client's needs. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community and am proud to be part of it. I use an eclectic approach to therapy. Each person is a unique and complex blend of emotions and experiences, and I believe the techniques I use should be fitted to the person rather than taking a "one size fits all" approach. I like to let my client set the tone, and weave technique into our session so that the focus is on the person and not the treatment type.
(510) 983-7821 View (510) 983-7821
Photo of Lisa Goldfein, LPCC, BC-DMT, Counselor
Lisa Goldfein
Counselor, LPCC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
I’m passionate about helping adults, teens and couples navigate the difficult moments and the bumps in the road that limit us. I understand that reaching out for support and finding the right person to guide you through your journey to healing can be a challenging process. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, unresolved /intergenerational trauma, relationship challenges, postpartum depression and life transitions. I also enjoy helping couples reconnect and improve communication. My unique background (I am Indian and Japanese) gives me deep insight into multicultural issues, and the challenge of finding your identity.
I’m passionate about helping adults, teens and couples navigate the difficult moments and the bumps in the road that limit us. I understand that reaching out for support and finding the right person to guide you through your journey to healing can be a challenging process. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, unresolved /intergenerational trauma, relationship challenges, postpartum depression and life transitions. I also enjoy helping couples reconnect and improve communication. My unique background (I am Indian and Japanese) gives me deep insight into multicultural issues, and the challenge of finding your identity.
(323) 800-8874 View (323) 800-8874
Photo of Ana Moreno, MSW, ACSW
Ana Moreno
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m so glad you’ve decided to take this important step in considering therapy. Know that I’m here to support you every step of the way. As a proud bilingual Latinx who has navigated and broken through my own generational cycles, I deeply understand the challenges and rewards of personal growth and healing. In our time together, you’ll find a space free of judgment, where compassion, understanding, and acceptance are the foundation.
I’m so glad you’ve decided to take this important step in considering therapy. Know that I’m here to support you every step of the way. As a proud bilingual Latinx who has navigated and broken through my own generational cycles, I deeply understand the challenges and rewards of personal growth and healing. In our time together, you’ll find a space free of judgment, where compassion, understanding, and acceptance are the foundation.
(562) 384-2033 View (562) 384-2033
Photo of Dr. Calvin P. Thompson - Dr. Calvin P. Thompson Ed.D, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Calvin P. Thompson Ed.D, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
Welcome! I am a Black/African American Licensed Clinical Social Worker trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). With over 8 years of experience in the mental health and social work fields, I've been licensed in the beautiful state of California since 2017. My journey began with the University of Southern California’s (USC) Department of Public Safety. There, I discovered my calling to serve humanity and embarked on my pursuit of a Master of Social Work (MSW) at USC. I gained valuable experience working in diverse settings such as corrections facilities, psychiatric hospitals, and outpatient centers.
Welcome! I am a Black/African American Licensed Clinical Social Worker trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). With over 8 years of experience in the mental health and social work fields, I've been licensed in the beautiful state of California since 2017. My journey began with the University of Southern California’s (USC) Department of Public Safety. There, I discovered my calling to serve humanity and embarked on my pursuit of a Master of Social Work (MSW) at USC. I gained valuable experience working in diverse settings such as corrections facilities, psychiatric hospitals, and outpatient centers.
(562) 375-0710 View (562) 375-0710
Photo of Valerie Macy-Hurley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie Macy-Hurley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
Congrats on taking this step towards wellness! I am accepting new clients & hope to help you on your journey. My goal is to provide clients w/ support through compassion, connection & a sense of humor. With 20+ years of experience guiding people of all ages & walks of life to overcome their mental health challenges (e.g. anxiety, depression, OCD, Eating Disorders, ADHD, ASD) I have the expertise you’re looking for. I also have extensive experience helping those w/ acute & chronic medical conditions, bereavement, trauma (I’m trauma-informed-care educated) & diverse populations w/ navigating social, medical & educational inequities.
Congrats on taking this step towards wellness! I am accepting new clients & hope to help you on your journey. My goal is to provide clients w/ support through compassion, connection & a sense of humor. With 20+ years of experience guiding people of all ages & walks of life to overcome their mental health challenges (e.g. anxiety, depression, OCD, Eating Disorders, ADHD, ASD) I have the expertise you’re looking for. I also have extensive experience helping those w/ acute & chronic medical conditions, bereavement, trauma (I’m trauma-informed-care educated) & diverse populations w/ navigating social, medical & educational inequities.
(562) 684-6036 View (562) 684-6036
Photo of Afrashe Asungi - SistahPeace(tm) ReShaping(tm) WellBalance(tm), LCSW, MFA, MSW, CAODC, CLPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
SistahPeace(tm) ReShaping(tm) WellBalance(tm)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFA, MSW, CAODC, CLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are YOU Ready For SistahPeaceful Change ?(tm) . . . Facing A Distressing Dilemma ?. . . We Can Help You Find Peace Of Mind Again(tm) . . . Helping Unconventional, Artistic, Lesbian, Bi, Questioning, WOC, & Imaginative wimmin regain and maintain their Peace of Mind . . . Want to have a greater, more authentic, and meaningful sense of Self-regard, Self-accomplishment, Self-satisfaction and real happiness in those essential areas of your life? . . . SHEINSPIRED(tm) Innovative & Holistic Counseling & Coaching For Wimmin . . . ! ~ AfraShe is LGBTQI-Affirmative, Psychospiritual, Solution-Focused, SpiraCulturally(tm) based, holistic and uses synergistic Eastern, Afrikan & Western, results-oriented approaches optimized to assist you to make Meaningful, Achievable SistahPeaceful(tm) Life-Style Changes.
Are YOU Ready For SistahPeaceful Change ?(tm) . . . Facing A Distressing Dilemma ?. . . We Can Help You Find Peace Of Mind Again(tm) . . . Helping Unconventional, Artistic, Lesbian, Bi, Questioning, WOC, & Imaginative wimmin regain and maintain their Peace of Mind . . . Want to have a greater, more authentic, and meaningful sense of Self-regard, Self-accomplishment, Self-satisfaction and real happiness in those essential areas of your life? . . . SHEINSPIRED(tm) Innovative & Holistic Counseling & Coaching For Wimmin . . . ! ~ AfraShe is LGBTQI-Affirmative, Psychospiritual, Solution-Focused, SpiraCulturally(tm) based, holistic and uses synergistic Eastern, Afrikan & Western, results-oriented approaches optimized to assist you to make Meaningful, Achievable SistahPeaceful(tm) Life-Style Changes.
(562) 507-1904 View (562) 507-1904
Photo of Lenwood Valentino Patterson - Lenwood Patterson/Trauma-Informed Therapy, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lenwood Patterson/Trauma-Informed Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
I can help you overcome barriers to living up to your full potential by working with you to explore: What are these barriers? How can we heal these specific challenges together? I bring both academic expertise and personal experience to my practice, which enables me to guide you on your path to becoming the best version of yourself. Having navigated and overcome significant challenges in my own life, I understand the resilience and commitment required to transform pain into growth. My primary focus has been working with individuals in addiction recovery, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.
I can help you overcome barriers to living up to your full potential by working with you to explore: What are these barriers? How can we heal these specific challenges together? I bring both academic expertise and personal experience to my practice, which enables me to guide you on your path to becoming the best version of yourself. Having navigated and overcome significant challenges in my own life, I understand the resilience and commitment required to transform pain into growth. My primary focus has been working with individuals in addiction recovery, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.
(562) 566-3515 View (562) 566-3515
Photo of Alexis King, Alexis, King, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexis King
Pre-Licensed Professional, Alexis, King, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a passionate therapist specializing in mental health; I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve personal growth. I provide compassionate and personalized therapy to support clients in overcoming obstacles and enhancing their overall well-being. I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards healing and well-being. With 4 years of experience in the field, I have cultivated a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health issues and the profound impact they have on individuals and families.
As a passionate therapist specializing in mental health; I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve personal growth. I provide compassionate and personalized therapy to support clients in overcoming obstacles and enhancing their overall well-being. I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards healing and well-being. With 4 years of experience in the field, I have cultivated a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding mental health issues and the profound impact they have on individuals and families.
(562) 534-4548 View (562) 534-4548
Photo of Krissy Thomas, LMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Krissy Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi!, my name is Krissy, and I'm here to guide you on a journey towards healing, growth, and stronger relationships. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and effective mental health services to individuals, couples, and families. Life presents us with a myriad of challenges, from navigating personal struggles to managing relationship dynamics. In these moments, seeking support can be a transformative step towards reclaiming your well-being and fostering resilience. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
Hi!, my name is Krissy, and I'm here to guide you on a journey towards healing, growth, and stronger relationships. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and effective mental health services to individuals, couples, and families. Life presents us with a myriad of challenges, from navigating personal struggles to managing relationship dynamics. In these moments, seeking support can be a transformative step towards reclaiming your well-being and fostering resilience. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
(714) 475-7073 View (714) 475-7073
Photo of Ivano C Franceschini, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ivano C Franceschini
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Areas of special focus: Children and Teens (Including poor school performance, conflict resolution, ADHD, 504’s, IEP’s) Parenting, Anxiety, Interpersonal Relationships, and Spiritual Integration. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, parents, couples and adults struggling with their own mental health issues. I create a safe and warm environment and by using my relationship in therapy to facilitate the healing process in my clients. I brings over 25 years of working with children and adolescents as a school counselor in the Long Beach School District.
Areas of special focus: Children and Teens (Including poor school performance, conflict resolution, ADHD, 504’s, IEP’s) Parenting, Anxiety, Interpersonal Relationships, and Spiritual Integration. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, parents, couples and adults struggling with their own mental health issues. I create a safe and warm environment and by using my relationship in therapy to facilitate the healing process in my clients. I brings over 25 years of working with children and adolescents as a school counselor in the Long Beach School District.
(562) 553-3774 View (562) 553-3774
Photo of Denise Valdez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Valdez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you struggle with understanding your thoughts and emotions, especially in relation to past trauma and/or anxiety? Do you often wish you could go back to who you used to be before these challenges affected your ability to function, work and connect with others? Now more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed about finding their place in life. Ignoring these issues can lead to long-term problems affecting your overall well-being. I believe that every individual has the ability to find their own happiness and I am here to support you on that journey.
Do you struggle with understanding your thoughts and emotions, especially in relation to past trauma and/or anxiety? Do you often wish you could go back to who you used to be before these challenges affected your ability to function, work and connect with others? Now more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed about finding their place in life. Ignoring these issues can lead to long-term problems affecting your overall well-being. I believe that every individual has the ability to find their own happiness and I am here to support you on that journey.
(323) 417-0484 View (323) 417-0484
Photo of Fabiola Rodriguez-Cordova, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Fabiola Rodriguez-Cordova
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
***NOW OFFERING IN-PERSON SESSIONS****Have you imagined a world filled with peace and joy? Have you walked this journey of life and realized this world is always changing and our emotions go up and down as well? I know, I've been there, I have been affected by the many changes of this world and have questioned my existence and/or my purpose in life. I will walk this journey with you, you are not alone. I am here to help you and equip you with the right tools to navigate this journey. You will get through this. You are one step away from doing something great for yourself. Clientes: OFREZCO TERAPIA POR TELÉFONO/VIDEO O EN PERSONA.
***NOW OFFERING IN-PERSON SESSIONS****Have you imagined a world filled with peace and joy? Have you walked this journey of life and realized this world is always changing and our emotions go up and down as well? I know, I've been there, I have been affected by the many changes of this world and have questioned my existence and/or my purpose in life. I will walk this journey with you, you are not alone. I am here to help you and equip you with the right tools to navigate this journey. You will get through this. You are one step away from doing something great for yourself. Clientes: OFREZCO TERAPIA POR TELÉFONO/VIDEO O EN PERSONA.
(562) 378-4221 View (562) 378-4221
Photo of Jennifer Jiries, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Jiries
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach as a therapist is affirming, collaborative, strengths based, and tailored to each client I work with. I focus on providing a judgment-free zone so that clients have space and support to work on their personal goals. I hope to build a strong relationship with each client because I believe that a strong relationship is important to our ability to work together and helps to strengthen the client's ability to reach their goals. Therapy can sometimes be hard work and often means facing difficult experiences from our past. My hope is that I am providing a space where the client never feels alone in the process.
My approach as a therapist is affirming, collaborative, strengths based, and tailored to each client I work with. I focus on providing a judgment-free zone so that clients have space and support to work on their personal goals. I hope to build a strong relationship with each client because I believe that a strong relationship is important to our ability to work together and helps to strengthen the client's ability to reach their goals. Therapy can sometimes be hard work and often means facing difficult experiences from our past. My hope is that I am providing a space where the client never feels alone in the process.
(213) 474-3803 View (213) 474-3803
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Long Beach, CA

1,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Long Beach, CA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
88% Depression
76% Self Esteem
72% Relationship Issues
72% Coping Skills
69% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

74% Aetna
68% Cigna and Evernorth
58% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Long Beach, CA see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Long Beach?

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

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.

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.

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.