Therapists in Santa Barbara County, CA

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Photo of Ella Danielle Marie Lauser, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Ella Danielle Marie Lauser
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Have you ever felt like no one truly understands what you’re going through? Are you seeking to change how you feel and see yourself and are unsure how to move forward? Do you worry about burdening your friends or family with your struggles and feel you are holding so much on your own? Becoming the adult you want to be is hard when you constantly compare yourself to what others have achieved. We are not meant to navigate all of these growing pains alone. I can help you through first loves and first jobs while figuring out who you are, separate from who you thought or were told you should be, while also learning how to enjoy the good.
Have you ever felt like no one truly understands what you’re going through? Are you seeking to change how you feel and see yourself and are unsure how to move forward? Do you worry about burdening your friends or family with your struggles and feel you are holding so much on your own? Becoming the adult you want to be is hard when you constantly compare yourself to what others have achieved. We are not meant to navigate all of these growing pains alone. I can help you through first loves and first jobs while figuring out who you are, separate from who you thought or were told you should be, while also learning how to enjoy the good.
(805) 837-1597 View (805) 837-1597
Photo of Andrew Smyth, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Andrew Smyth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93108
I support clients in a supportive and safe environment working together towards reclaiming freedom and authenticity. I enjoy working with those who seek a deeper sense of security, truth and integrity within themselves. Bringing curiosity and openness to the process of healing, in order to move past limiting patterns, negative core beliefs and past experiences of Trauma. Within each of us lies a system of inner "knowing" which always desires our highest potential. Its through a safe and sacred space where we can learn trust ourselves again and reconnect with the world around us.
I support clients in a supportive and safe environment working together towards reclaiming freedom and authenticity. I enjoy working with those who seek a deeper sense of security, truth and integrity within themselves. Bringing curiosity and openness to the process of healing, in order to move past limiting patterns, negative core beliefs and past experiences of Trauma. Within each of us lies a system of inner "knowing" which always desires our highest potential. Its through a safe and sacred space where we can learn trust ourselves again and reconnect with the world around us.
(805) 232-7968 View (805) 232-7968
Photo of Adrienne Oxton, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Adrienne Oxton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Waitlist for new clients
In-person and telehealth available. I work with adolescents, adults and couples. We all experience anxiety, depression, anger, stress and sometimes the trauma that can occur in our families, our relationships, our friendships, our workplaces and our everyday lives. Some of these stressors are triggered when we break-up, begin a new relationship, start a new job, start at a new school etc. Some individuals need to be sat with and have a space held for them, some are looking for collaborative support and guidance on their life's struggles.
In-person and telehealth available. I work with adolescents, adults and couples. We all experience anxiety, depression, anger, stress and sometimes the trauma that can occur in our families, our relationships, our friendships, our workplaces and our everyday lives. Some of these stressors are triggered when we break-up, begin a new relationship, start a new job, start at a new school etc. Some individuals need to be sat with and have a space held for them, some are looking for collaborative support and guidance on their life's struggles.
(805) 219-7878 View (805) 219-7878
Photo of Brandi Kulikov-Ramirez - LightHaven Therapy for Women and Children, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PhD, LMFT
LightHaven Therapy for Women and Children
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PhD, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Solvang, CA 93463
Welcome to LightHaven Therapy for Women and Children—a warm, supportive space for healing and growth. I help women navigate challenges like pregnancy, postpartum, anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles. I also work with young children on emotional regulation, social skills, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, nightmares, and more. With compassion and care, I guide you and your little ones toward resilience, balance, and thriving.
Welcome to LightHaven Therapy for Women and Children—a warm, supportive space for healing and growth. I help women navigate challenges like pregnancy, postpartum, anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles. I also work with young children on emotional regulation, social skills, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, nightmares, and more. With compassion and care, I guide you and your little ones toward resilience, balance, and thriving.
(805) 621-6741 View (805) 621-6741
Photo of Mahip Rathore, Psychologist, PhD
Mahip Rathore
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I work best with individuals of color and international origin who are driven to self-actualize—seeking meaning, fulfillment, and inner growth shaped by adversity, cultural complexity, and a spiritual lens. They’re navigating anxiety, trauma, or identity concerns while exploring purpose, relationships, and practices like meditation. I also coach diverse couples facing tension, trust issues, or emotional disconnection—those longing to feel supported and understood, and ready to build assertive yet compassionate communication.
I work best with individuals of color and international origin who are driven to self-actualize—seeking meaning, fulfillment, and inner growth shaped by adversity, cultural complexity, and a spiritual lens. They’re navigating anxiety, trauma, or identity concerns while exploring purpose, relationships, and practices like meditation. I also coach diverse couples facing tension, trust issues, or emotional disconnection—those longing to feel supported and understood, and ready to build assertive yet compassionate communication.
(805) 321-0550 View (805) 321-0550
Photo of Jordan Tourtelot Perzik, PhD
Jordan Tourtelot Perzik
Verified Verified
Goleta, CA 93117
I challenge you to bring in your most obstinate life problems, and we will work to a solution as quickly as possible. An honest, action-oriented approach to therapy can solve your problems in a matter of months rather than years. I do not hold any state board licenses and am a professional psychologist with a PhD in clinical psychology practicing as a life coach/consultant. I have more than 7000 supervised hours in the field and use a broad skill set tailored to each client. Although I do not take insurance, I strive to offset this by offering a time-limited, goal-oriented approach to therapy.
I challenge you to bring in your most obstinate life problems, and we will work to a solution as quickly as possible. An honest, action-oriented approach to therapy can solve your problems in a matter of months rather than years. I do not hold any state board licenses and am a professional psychologist with a PhD in clinical psychology practicing as a life coach/consultant. I have more than 7000 supervised hours in the field and use a broad skill set tailored to each client. Although I do not take insurance, I strive to offset this by offering a time-limited, goal-oriented approach to therapy.
(805) 515-4175 View (805) 515-4175
Photo of Melissa Lynn Lowenstein, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Melissa Lynn Lowenstein
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I work with individual adults, parents, families, and couples. A special area of skill and joy for me is in supporting parents who want to improve their parenting in any family configuration. As a practitioner, I aim to create and hold space where clients can gain practical tools, realize inconvenient truths, practice relating to others and themselves differently, question, move, play, feel, say the unsayable, experience their bodies, hold paradoxes, recognize contexts, find purpose, create, envision, celebrate, grieve, and ultimately arrive in the present moment—which is, in the end, all we really have.
I work with individual adults, parents, families, and couples. A special area of skill and joy for me is in supporting parents who want to improve their parenting in any family configuration. As a practitioner, I aim to create and hold space where clients can gain practical tools, realize inconvenient truths, practice relating to others and themselves differently, question, move, play, feel, say the unsayable, experience their bodies, hold paradoxes, recognize contexts, find purpose, create, envision, celebrate, grieve, and ultimately arrive in the present moment—which is, in the end, all we really have.
(805) 849-1615 View (805) 849-1615
Photo of Christina Viani, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Christina Viani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
If you've found your way here, it's likely because you're seeking assistance, either for yourself or someone you care about, and I'm so glad you're here. I am genuinely honored to be a part of this journey with you. My dedication is to support you as you navigate the path toward healing and wholeness in your life. I believe in tailoring each therapy session to your unique needs and experiences, ensuring that your personal quest towards healing is personalized and meaningful.
If you've found your way here, it's likely because you're seeking assistance, either for yourself or someone you care about, and I'm so glad you're here. I am genuinely honored to be a part of this journey with you. My dedication is to support you as you navigate the path toward healing and wholeness in your life. I believe in tailoring each therapy session to your unique needs and experiences, ensuring that your personal quest towards healing is personalized and meaningful.
(805) 823-1740 View (805) 823-1740
Photo of Nicole A. Botaitis, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Nicole A. Botaitis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
8 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Do you feel stuck, disconnected from relationships, or overwhelmed by life changes? If you're ready to make a shift and take control, I’m here to help. As a life transition and relationship therapist, I specialize in guiding motivated individuals through emotionally taxing times to create fulfilling and empowered lives. Together, we’ll uncover what’s keeping you stagnant & develop strategies to restore balance and clarity. Whether it’s navigating relationships, setting boundaries, managing stress, healing from loss, or addressing self-esteem challenges, I’ll help you create a new narrative & personalized plan to achieve your goals.
Do you feel stuck, disconnected from relationships, or overwhelmed by life changes? If you're ready to make a shift and take control, I’m here to help. As a life transition and relationship therapist, I specialize in guiding motivated individuals through emotionally taxing times to create fulfilling and empowered lives. Together, we’ll uncover what’s keeping you stagnant & develop strategies to restore balance and clarity. Whether it’s navigating relationships, setting boundaries, managing stress, healing from loss, or addressing self-esteem challenges, I’ll help you create a new narrative & personalized plan to achieve your goals.
(805) 360-4265 View (805) 360-4265
Photo of Tim Reis, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, BS-ME, MBA, MA-MFT, CSAT-C
Tim Reis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, BS-ME, MBA, MA-MFT, CSAT-C
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with individuals, families, couples, and teens. With a foundation in Family Systems Theory, I view each person as part of a larger system where everyone influences each other, affecting both symptoms and goals. By employing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and taking a Client-Centered approach, I treat anxiety, depression, trauma (using EMDR), as well as addictions to alcohol, drugs, sex, and pornography (Certified Sex Addiction Therapist – Candidate).
I work with individuals, families, couples, and teens. With a foundation in Family Systems Theory, I view each person as part of a larger system where everyone influences each other, affecting both symptoms and goals. By employing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and taking a Client-Centered approach, I treat anxiety, depression, trauma (using EMDR), as well as addictions to alcohol, drugs, sex, and pornography (Certified Sex Addiction Therapist – Candidate).
(805) 749-2141 View (805) 749-2141
Photo of Anisha Patel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Anisha Patel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Are you struggling with overcoming depression, anxiety, and/or PTSD due to trauma? For nearly 20 years I have worked with individuals to heal from various traumatic experiences. I look to create an empowering space for all the adults and teens I work with including tailoring therapy approaches to meet the specific needs of the individual.
Are you struggling with overcoming depression, anxiety, and/or PTSD due to trauma? For nearly 20 years I have worked with individuals to heal from various traumatic experiences. I look to create an empowering space for all the adults and teens I work with including tailoring therapy approaches to meet the specific needs of the individual.
(805) 623-0993 View (805) 623-0993
Photo of Teagan Manny, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Teagan Manny
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
8 Endorsed
Online Only
Sessions are 100% virtual, anywhere in California. There are times in our life when we can feel burnt out, lost, stuck and could use an objective person to help us through these tough times. Whether you're facing a decline in self-worth, seeking clarity, or simply craving a supportive space; you don't have to navigate it alone. I work with challenges related to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, grief, motivation, and phase of life transitions. I am dedicated to tailoring my approach to meet the specific needs of each client, recognizing the importance of individualized care in promoting lasting change.
Sessions are 100% virtual, anywhere in California. There are times in our life when we can feel burnt out, lost, stuck and could use an objective person to help us through these tough times. Whether you're facing a decline in self-worth, seeking clarity, or simply craving a supportive space; you don't have to navigate it alone. I work with challenges related to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, grief, motivation, and phase of life transitions. I am dedicated to tailoring my approach to meet the specific needs of each client, recognizing the importance of individualized care in promoting lasting change.
(805) 360-6478 View (805) 360-6478
Photo of Melissa Jones Cantekin, Psychologist, PhD
Melissa Jones Cantekin
Psychologist, PhD
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Imagine being listened to with complete attention, without interruption or judgment in a confidential, supportive environment. I am both practical and holistic in my commitment to focus short-term on a specific problem or, to work over time to find what is lacking in your life that causes suffering. Through exploring and making transitions in relationships, career, creativity, sexuality and spirituality including dreams, we will solve or get beyond obstacles and grieve losses together, and relate them to the present. I can help guide the process in a compassionate and timely fashion, mediate any pain and give your future hope.
Imagine being listened to with complete attention, without interruption or judgment in a confidential, supportive environment. I am both practical and holistic in my commitment to focus short-term on a specific problem or, to work over time to find what is lacking in your life that causes suffering. Through exploring and making transitions in relationships, career, creativity, sexuality and spirituality including dreams, we will solve or get beyond obstacles and grieve losses together, and relate them to the present. I can help guide the process in a compassionate and timely fashion, mediate any pain and give your future hope.
(805) 317-4458 View (805) 317-4458
Photo of Karima Shamma, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Karima Shamma
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
1 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93111
Not accepting new clients
Life satisfaction hinges on the quality of past & current relationships because we grow in relationship with others. This is what therapy is all about. I work with adults, adolescents, college and transitional-aged clients to unearth the roots of inner distress, expand awareness, curiosity, energy and empowerment. Life is not rigid, it flexibly ebbs & flows. Growth, while scary demands a surrender of outdated beliefs and behaviors, leaving a familiar comfort zone. But guess what? You will not be alone.
Life satisfaction hinges on the quality of past & current relationships because we grow in relationship with others. This is what therapy is all about. I work with adults, adolescents, college and transitional-aged clients to unearth the roots of inner distress, expand awareness, curiosity, energy and empowerment. Life is not rigid, it flexibly ebbs & flows. Growth, while scary demands a surrender of outdated beliefs and behaviors, leaving a familiar comfort zone. But guess what? You will not be alone.
(805) 973-6048 View (805) 973-6048
Photo of Dr. Patricia K Zadeh, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Dr. Patricia K Zadeh
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Do you want to improve your quality of life, and find meaning and purpose by addressing obstacles and barriers and becoming more motivated and empowered? I am a compassionate and caring professional, with experience working with diverse ethnicities and backgrounds. I help clients in their self-discovery journey, utilizing their own unique strengths to foster growth, healing, and/or increase their personal potential. I utilize an integrative approach in my practice, which incorporates many techniques using mindfulness skills, Mindfulness-Based CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, ACT, and will tailor treatment according to your needs.
Do you want to improve your quality of life, and find meaning and purpose by addressing obstacles and barriers and becoming more motivated and empowered? I am a compassionate and caring professional, with experience working with diverse ethnicities and backgrounds. I help clients in their self-discovery journey, utilizing their own unique strengths to foster growth, healing, and/or increase their personal potential. I utilize an integrative approach in my practice, which incorporates many techniques using mindfulness skills, Mindfulness-Based CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, ACT, and will tailor treatment according to your needs.
(805) 514-1074 View (805) 514-1074
Photo of Lisa Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Lisa Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Isla Vista, CA 93117
I have almost 20 years of experience helping adults with anxiety, depression, adjustment concerns, addiction, career and academic issues, health and lifestyle issues, and relationships. I collaborate with patients to understand the reason and scope of symptoms about what brings them to therapy and their lifestyle, culture, social relationships, and barriers to their fulfillment.
I have almost 20 years of experience helping adults with anxiety, depression, adjustment concerns, addiction, career and academic issues, health and lifestyle issues, and relationships. I collaborate with patients to understand the reason and scope of symptoms about what brings them to therapy and their lifestyle, culture, social relationships, and barriers to their fulfillment.
(805) 856-6211 View (805) 856-6211
Photo of Scott Taney Young, Psychological Associate, MA
Scott Taney Young
Psychological Associate, MA
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Feeling stressed? Depressed? Frequently irritated or even just emotionally overwhelmed? You are not alone. Most people spend their days unconsciously jumping from one thought or emotion to the next. Many wind up getting hijacked by those thoughts and feelings and end up repeating the same self-destructive patterns over and over again. Few find their way clear of this. By working with me and focusing on your psychodynamics, you will come to understand yourself better, recognize your patterns, and identify a path towards true psychological freedom. My therapeutic approach is a collaborative one; I'd be happy to help you find your way.
Feeling stressed? Depressed? Frequently irritated or even just emotionally overwhelmed? You are not alone. Most people spend their days unconsciously jumping from one thought or emotion to the next. Many wind up getting hijacked by those thoughts and feelings and end up repeating the same self-destructive patterns over and over again. Few find their way clear of this. By working with me and focusing on your psychodynamics, you will come to understand yourself better, recognize your patterns, and identify a path towards true psychological freedom. My therapeutic approach is a collaborative one; I'd be happy to help you find your way.
(805) 977-5643 View (805) 977-5643
Photo of Elizabeth Jacobo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Elizabeth Jacobo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My name is E. Penny Jacobo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I believe many of our problems in life can be managed by changing our own thoughts and perspectives. We are usually more capable and powerful than we give ourselves credit for and I aim to help others find and use their own inner strength to solve their problems. I work with clients to identify cognitive distortions and change them. I also believe that taking the time to pause and be present at the moment is crucial to creating insight into our lives and our problems.
My name is E. Penny Jacobo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I believe many of our problems in life can be managed by changing our own thoughts and perspectives. We are usually more capable and powerful than we give ourselves credit for and I aim to help others find and use their own inner strength to solve their problems. I work with clients to identify cognitive distortions and change them. I also believe that taking the time to pause and be present at the moment is crucial to creating insight into our lives and our problems.
(805) 243-2193 View (805) 243-2193
Photo of Katharine Foley-Saldeña, Psychologist, PsyD
Katharine Foley-Saldeña
Psychologist, PsyD
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I work with adults with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, physical illness, and adjustment to health-related concerns. My approach is holistic, compassionate, and effective. I specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), an evidence-based approach. ACT empowers you to clarify what matters and to embrace the life you want to live by discerning your values and defusing from the entangling thoughts and patterns that keep you stuck. I also specialize in treating chronic pain with Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) and insomnia with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I).
I work with adults with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, physical illness, and adjustment to health-related concerns. My approach is holistic, compassionate, and effective. I specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), an evidence-based approach. ACT empowers you to clarify what matters and to embrace the life you want to live by discerning your values and defusing from the entangling thoughts and patterns that keep you stuck. I also specialize in treating chronic pain with Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) and insomnia with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I).
(805) 590-7421 View (805) 590-7421
Photo of Katie Karas, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Katie Karas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I am trained in Family Therapy and although not always the case, therapy often moves faster when you are willing to include other family members as a part of therapy at some point. It helps me understand you in the broader context of the people that are important to you or have influence in your life. I have been married for 34 years and have three adult children so my personal experience often informs me, along with my training and the expertise I have gathered being a part of The Family Therapy Institute.
I am trained in Family Therapy and although not always the case, therapy often moves faster when you are willing to include other family members as a part of therapy at some point. It helps me understand you in the broader context of the people that are important to you or have influence in your life. I have been married for 34 years and have three adult children so my personal experience often informs me, along with my training and the expertise I have gathered being a part of The Family Therapy Institute.
(805) 639-8093 x306 View (805) 639-8093 x306

See more therapy options for Santa Barbara County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Santa Barbara County, CA

1,000+

Average cost per session

$176

Therapists in Santa Barbara County, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
72% Self Esteem
68% Coping Skills
66% Stress
65% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
65% Cigna and Evernorth
63% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Santa Barbara County, CA see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Santa Barbara County?

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.