Therapists in University South, Palo Alto, CA

Photo of Kelly Albrecht, ASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Albrecht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW
Verified Verified
University South, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, IFS, and Problem-Solving Therapy, and somatic interventions.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, IFS, and Problem-Solving Therapy, and somatic interventions.
(650) 436-4565 View (650) 436-4565
Photo of Victoria Coleman - Serenity Psychotherapy LLC, LPCC, LMFT, LCSW, Counselor
Serenity Psychotherapy LLC
Counselor, LPCC, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Victoria Coleman: Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of my approach. I have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more My approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals.
Dr. Victoria Coleman: Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of my approach. I have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more My approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals.
(650) 899-6638 View (650) 899-6638
Photo of Liana Huang, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liana Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
University South, Palo Alto, CA 94301
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
(650) 590-5776 View (650) 590-5776
Photo of Mary Ellen Lemieux - Mary Ellen Lemieux, JD, LCSW, JD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Ellen Lemieux, JD, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University South, Palo Alto, CA 94301
I enjoy working with adults and families who desire change, but aren't sure how to make it happen. For some, it means a change in relationship dynamics or parenting style. For others, it means collaborating on complicated life issues, such as difficult teenagers, substance abuse, or co-parenting. If you are looking to leave a long marriage, I can help you navigate that process. I also enjoy working with individuals in their 20's and 30's trying to figure out this thing called adulting. I split my time between Steamboat Springs,CO and northern California, and am licensed to see clients in California, Colorado and Utah.
I enjoy working with adults and families who desire change, but aren't sure how to make it happen. For some, it means a change in relationship dynamics or parenting style. For others, it means collaborating on complicated life issues, such as difficult teenagers, substance abuse, or co-parenting. If you are looking to leave a long marriage, I can help you navigate that process. I also enjoy working with individuals in their 20's and 30's trying to figure out this thing called adulting. I split my time between Steamboat Springs,CO and northern California, and am licensed to see clients in California, Colorado and Utah.
(650) 346-7698 View (650) 346-7698
Photo of Sterling Walker, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
University South, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(650) 629-2936 View (650) 629-2936
Photo of Goolrukh Adi Vakil, PhD, LMFT, MA, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Goolrukh Adi Vakil
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MA, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
University South, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Contemplating therapy is a brave first step. I first want to emphasize my two-session parent-child conflict model, and my expertise in immigrant/cultural issues in Indian and Asian extended families. I am the rare therapist experienced in and value working with people manifesting psychosis and schizophrenia. As an Assistant Professor, I am up-to-date in the latest research and treatment methods. With 20 years of Bay Area experience, I would be honored to support you in your journey to flourish in life and relationships. Teletherapy or in-person.
Contemplating therapy is a brave first step. I first want to emphasize my two-session parent-child conflict model, and my expertise in immigrant/cultural issues in Indian and Asian extended families. I am the rare therapist experienced in and value working with people manifesting psychosis and schizophrenia. As an Assistant Professor, I am up-to-date in the latest research and treatment methods. With 20 years of Bay Area experience, I would be honored to support you in your journey to flourish in life and relationships. Teletherapy or in-person.
(415) 845-8519 View (415) 845-8519
Photo of Melanie Maddox, ASW, EMDR, BSP
Melanie Maddox
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR, BSP
Verified Verified
University South, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
(650) 955-4377 View (650) 955-4377
Photo of Richard M Stolee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Richard M Stolee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
University South, Palo Alto, CA 94303
Richard is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 50 years of experience specializing in individual and marriage and family counseling, adolescent psychotherapy, job and management counseling. He has been trained in multiple approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Collaborative Problem Solving, and significant Family Therapy strategies for resolving couple as well as parent child conflict. He has taught many parenting workshops throughout the Bay area. He is a Member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT).
Richard is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 50 years of experience specializing in individual and marriage and family counseling, adolescent psychotherapy, job and management counseling. He has been trained in multiple approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Collaborative Problem Solving, and significant Family Therapy strategies for resolving couple as well as parent child conflict. He has taught many parenting workshops throughout the Bay area. He is a Member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT).
(650) 273-9795 View (650) 273-9795
Photo of Gabriela S Buendia, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gabriela S Buendia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
University South, Palo Alto, CA 94301
My focus and goal as a clinician is to create a warm, safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their personal issues and find meaning and purpose in their lives. I specialize in working with young children, parents, couples and individual clients going through significant life transitions. It is in the therapist/client relationship where my clients can begin to explore their issues, challenges and needs and also discover their strengths and internal resources in order to have a better understanding of who they are and reach their goals.
My focus and goal as a clinician is to create a warm, safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their personal issues and find meaning and purpose in their lives. I specialize in working with young children, parents, couples and individual clients going through significant life transitions. It is in the therapist/client relationship where my clients can begin to explore their issues, challenges and needs and also discover their strengths and internal resources in order to have a better understanding of who they are and reach their goals.
(650) 276-4633 View (650) 276-4633
Photo of Heidi Xue, AMFT, APCC, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Heidi Xue
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
University South, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
(650) 977-2150 View (650) 977-2150
Photo of Chantal Daley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chantal Daley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
University South, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Do you find yourself having a difficult time coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma? Do you have a hard time communicating and setting boundaries with others? Life is full of obstacles and hardships that may be difficult to overcome without the right tools, resources, and, guidance leading to the manifestation of these symptoms. I specialize in working with adults, couples, and adolescents using a Psychodynamic approach to explore unconscious thoughts and behaviors. In doing this, we are able to collaboratively recognize old ineffective patterns and process unresolved feelings and trauma.
Do you find yourself having a difficult time coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma? Do you have a hard time communicating and setting boundaries with others? Life is full of obstacles and hardships that may be difficult to overcome without the right tools, resources, and, guidance leading to the manifestation of these symptoms. I specialize in working with adults, couples, and adolescents using a Psychodynamic approach to explore unconscious thoughts and behaviors. In doing this, we are able to collaboratively recognize old ineffective patterns and process unresolved feelings and trauma.
(650) 405-0267 View (650) 405-0267
Photo of Katarzyna Kanska, PsyD, Psychologist
Katarzyna Kanska
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Intimidating as it may be, psychotherapy can bring hope and allow you an opportunity to gain a greater understanding of yourself, insight into what ails you, as well as unique ways of coping and healing. I see therapy as a collaborative process. Being able to share your story in a safe space, in the presence of another, is crucial for change. It will allow the two of us certain freedom to be curious about the impact of the known and unknown forces on your life and wellbeing. It will also help us explore ways in which change can be lasting and confronting ongoing challenges becomes possible.
Intimidating as it may be, psychotherapy can bring hope and allow you an opportunity to gain a greater understanding of yourself, insight into what ails you, as well as unique ways of coping and healing. I see therapy as a collaborative process. Being able to share your story in a safe space, in the presence of another, is crucial for change. It will allow the two of us certain freedom to be curious about the impact of the known and unknown forces on your life and wellbeing. It will also help us explore ways in which change can be lasting and confronting ongoing challenges becomes possible.
(650) 481-9345 View (650) 481-9345
Photo of Zane Pierce, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Zane Pierce
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University South, Palo Alto, CA 94301
There is an old saying that in the course of every human life, one encounters 10,000 joys and 10,000 sorrows. Whether we consider ourselves young, old, rich, poor, famous or not, we all are equal in our fundamental experiences: no matter who we are, we experience birth and death, love and heartbreak, joy and despair. I see my role as a therapist as helping my fellow humans deal with the inevitable losses that come with living, be it loss of an identity, loss of self-worth, loss of a loved one, loss of a relationship, loss of joy. Even just the thought of future loss can be painful, leading to persistent anxiety and worry.
There is an old saying that in the course of every human life, one encounters 10,000 joys and 10,000 sorrows. Whether we consider ourselves young, old, rich, poor, famous or not, we all are equal in our fundamental experiences: no matter who we are, we experience birth and death, love and heartbreak, joy and despair. I see my role as a therapist as helping my fellow humans deal with the inevitable losses that come with living, be it loss of an identity, loss of self-worth, loss of a loved one, loss of a relationship, loss of joy. Even just the thought of future loss can be painful, leading to persistent anxiety and worry.
(650) 770-2110 View (650) 770-2110
Photo of David Paul MacBryde, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Paul MacBryde
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
University South, Palo Alto, CA 94301
I have worked for over 25 years with folks who have struggled with a range of internal, interpersonal, relational, and environmental challenges and questions. This includes: difficult thoughts; "stuck" patterns of behavior, including addictions; persistent sadness and depression; relationship and family difficulties; loneliness; thoughts of life-and-death; trauma; identity and sexuality questions; experiences of madness; and other difficult life situations. I focus on working with adolescents (16+), young adults (18-25), and adults of all ages. I also work with men of all ages on questions of masculinity and "manhood".
I have worked for over 25 years with folks who have struggled with a range of internal, interpersonal, relational, and environmental challenges and questions. This includes: difficult thoughts; "stuck" patterns of behavior, including addictions; persistent sadness and depression; relationship and family difficulties; loneliness; thoughts of life-and-death; trauma; identity and sexuality questions; experiences of madness; and other difficult life situations. I focus on working with adolescents (16+), young adults (18-25), and adults of all ages. I also work with men of all ages on questions of masculinity and "manhood".
(650) 382-4978 View (650) 382-4978
Photo of Aarti Gupta, PsyD, Psychologist
Aarti Gupta
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University South, Palo Alto, CA 94301
As life unfolds, it often presents challenges that require us to adjust and adapt. Good therapy facilitates a clearer understanding of obstacles and how to overcome them to create the life we want. My approach is empathic and intellectually curious and collaborative, always keeping your goals in mind. I have learned that the questions I ask are more important than the advice I give. My clients describe me as warm, active, nonjudgmental, direct, and a gifted listener. I am also highly attuned to teens, and have developed strong relationships with even the most "difficult to reach" kids.
As life unfolds, it often presents challenges that require us to adjust and adapt. Good therapy facilitates a clearer understanding of obstacles and how to overcome them to create the life we want. My approach is empathic and intellectually curious and collaborative, always keeping your goals in mind. I have learned that the questions I ask are more important than the advice I give. My clients describe me as warm, active, nonjudgmental, direct, and a gifted listener. I am also highly attuned to teens, and have developed strong relationships with even the most "difficult to reach" kids.
(781) 325-9143 View (781) 325-9143
Photo of Dr. Jet Hermes, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jet Hermes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with clients who are struggling with depression, feelings of hopelessness, and the overwhelm that comes from life’s many stresses. I also support those who feel anxious about how others perceive them. In addition, I have a passion for providing geriatric mental health care, helping older adults navigate challenges related to aging, parent-child relationships, and exploring perspectives on death and dying. I also work with clients who experience delusional thoughts that interfere with their cognitive functioning and daily life, as long as these thoughts do not involve homicidal ideations or tendencies to harm others.
I work with clients who are struggling with depression, feelings of hopelessness, and the overwhelm that comes from life’s many stresses. I also support those who feel anxious about how others perceive them. In addition, I have a passion for providing geriatric mental health care, helping older adults navigate challenges related to aging, parent-child relationships, and exploring perspectives on death and dying. I also work with clients who experience delusional thoughts that interfere with their cognitive functioning and daily life, as long as these thoughts do not involve homicidal ideations or tendencies to harm others.
(650) 719-2824 View (650) 719-2824
Photo of Sedigheh Dokie Riahi Kashani (Aka Dokie Riahi), MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sedigheh Dokie Riahi Kashani (Aka Dokie Riahi)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
University South, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Do you find yourself asking “Should I be worried about this?” in regards with your child? Are you struggling to determine whether your child’s behavior is “normal”, a phase, or something that needs additional support? Is your adolescent’s inability to put his emotional experiences into words resulting in him communicating his inner turmoil through actions (i.e.,arguing, acting out, distancing from you, disengaging with academic responsibilities, etc.). I have a deep passion for working with youth and parents and have had the pleasure of working with children, adolescents, parents, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds and with various stressors since 2006.
Do you find yourself asking “Should I be worried about this?” in regards with your child? Are you struggling to determine whether your child’s behavior is “normal”, a phase, or something that needs additional support? Is your adolescent’s inability to put his emotional experiences into words resulting in him communicating his inner turmoil through actions (i.e.,arguing, acting out, distancing from you, disengaging with academic responsibilities, etc.). I have a deep passion for working with youth and parents and have had the pleasure of working with children, adolescents, parents, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds and with various stressors since 2006.
(408) 837-5847 View (408) 837-5847
Photo of Christi Gallon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christi Gallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
University South, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
(650) 789-7684 View (650) 789-7684
Photo of Beth O'Malley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Beth O'Malley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
University South, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Wouldn't it be nice to become clear about how you want to live your life? The dynamic process of a patient and therapist working together so that troubling thoughts and feelings, unrealized dreams and hidden fears can emerge in the therapy session strengthens the ability to grow in meaningful ways, and in intimate relationships. Working with the concept of how individuals balance both the need for autonomy and the need for connection, I will help you sort out how to relate and hold on to yourself.
Wouldn't it be nice to become clear about how you want to live your life? The dynamic process of a patient and therapist working together so that troubling thoughts and feelings, unrealized dreams and hidden fears can emerge in the therapy session strengthens the ability to grow in meaningful ways, and in intimate relationships. Working with the concept of how individuals balance both the need for autonomy and the need for connection, I will help you sort out how to relate and hold on to yourself.
(650) 262-5681 View (650) 262-5681
Photo of Rebecca Good, PsyD, Psychologist
Rebecca Good
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University South, Palo Alto, CA 94306
I offer *concierge therapy services* in Palo Alto, Piedmont, and the greater Bay Area. I am committed to uniquely serving individuals and family systems to support clients in navigating their complex and fast-paced lives in a way that is expressly tailored to fit into your Bay Area lifestyle. I work dynamically with family members to address overarching goals from different perspectives. This allows me to focus on your needs from every angle possible. The result is comprehensive change on an individual and systematic level. I can meet online or in person with a flexible structure to meet your ever changing needs.
I offer *concierge therapy services* in Palo Alto, Piedmont, and the greater Bay Area. I am committed to uniquely serving individuals and family systems to support clients in navigating their complex and fast-paced lives in a way that is expressly tailored to fit into your Bay Area lifestyle. I work dynamically with family members to address overarching goals from different perspectives. This allows me to focus on your needs from every angle possible. The result is comprehensive change on an individual and systematic level. I can meet online or in person with a flexible structure to meet your ever changing needs.
(510) 775-6818 View (510) 775-6818

See more therapy options for University South, Palo Alto

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in University South, Palo Alto, CA

100+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in University South, Palo Alto, CA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
66% Self Esteem
65% Life Transitions
64% Coping Skills
63% Stress

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Cigna and Evernorth
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
74% Oxford

How Therapists in University South, Palo Alto, CA see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in University South, Palo Alto?

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.