Therapists in Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL

Photo of Dr. Alfred Austin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Dr. Alfred Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Have you ever felt like you were drowning in a flood of toxic stress from life's unrelenting storms? Are you emotionally exhausted after trying to establish meaningful friendships or maintain relationships with family or loved ones? If so, you are not alone. Many maintain the sentiment that our closest friends and loved ones don't understand our plight. Conversely, many parents believe their children are emotionally detached from family. If this sounds like your case. . .I am extending my "virtual" hand. Let us work together to overcome issues that have long stopped you and your family from being happy, healthy, and whole.
Have you ever felt like you were drowning in a flood of toxic stress from life's unrelenting storms? Are you emotionally exhausted after trying to establish meaningful friendships or maintain relationships with family or loved ones? If so, you are not alone. Many maintain the sentiment that our closest friends and loved ones don't understand our plight. Conversely, many parents believe their children are emotionally detached from family. If this sounds like your case. . .I am extending my "virtual" hand. Let us work together to overcome issues that have long stopped you and your family from being happy, healthy, and whole.
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Photo of Kayleigh Ratashak, Counselor, M.S., LMHC
Kayleigh Ratashak
Counselor, M.S., LMHC
3 Endorsed
Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Hi there! I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent adults, as well as those navigating personality disorders, complex trauma (CPTSD), and addiction recovery. My approach blends Internal Family Systems (IFS), a feminist and anti-capitalist framework, and somatic and mindfulness practices to help you reconnect with yourself and your body. I see therapy as a place to challenge internalized messages from capitalism and white supremacy that say your worth depends on productivity, perfectionism, or self-erasure. Instead, we work to cultivate rest, joy, and authentic self-expression as acts of healing.
Hi there! I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent adults, as well as those navigating personality disorders, complex trauma (CPTSD), and addiction recovery. My approach blends Internal Family Systems (IFS), a feminist and anti-capitalist framework, and somatic and mindfulness practices to help you reconnect with yourself and your body. I see therapy as a place to challenge internalized messages from capitalism and white supremacy that say your worth depends on productivity, perfectionism, or self-erasure. Instead, we work to cultivate rest, joy, and authentic self-expression as acts of healing.
(904) 621-1259 View (904) 621-1259
Photo of Cynthia Coughlin - Octave Therapy, Counselor, L, M, H, C
Octave Therapy
Counselor, L, M, H, C
Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL 32202
I offer warmth, understanding, and authenticity in my work as a therapist. I support clients of all ages navigating challenges such as crisis intervention, women’s issues, and life transitions. I believe healing is a journey that requires patience, compassion, and steady support. My approach combines evidence-based tools with creativity and intuition, meeting you where you are and helping you build clarity, resilience, and a sense of peace in your life.
I offer warmth, understanding, and authenticity in my work as a therapist. I support clients of all ages navigating challenges such as crisis intervention, women’s issues, and life transitions. I believe healing is a journey that requires patience, compassion, and steady support. My approach combines evidence-based tools with creativity and intuition, meeting you where you are and helping you build clarity, resilience, and a sense of peace in your life.
(904) 664-9328 View (904) 664-9328
Photo of Gracie Bowden, Counselor, LMHC
Gracie Bowden
Counselor, LMHC
3 Endorsed
Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL 32202
I work with individuals, couples, and families navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, substance misuse, grief, obsessive–compulsive disorder, medical issues, and life transitions. My ideal clients are seeking relief from distress, clarity in thoughts and behaviors, and practical tools to manage life’s transitions. They want to feel deeply seen, understood, and respected, and are ready to engage in a collaborative process that builds self-trust and meaningful, lasting change.
I work with individuals, couples, and families navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, substance misuse, grief, obsessive–compulsive disorder, medical issues, and life transitions. My ideal clients are seeking relief from distress, clarity in thoughts and behaviors, and practical tools to manage life’s transitions. They want to feel deeply seen, understood, and respected, and are ready to engage in a collaborative process that builds self-trust and meaningful, lasting change.
(904) 872-6247 View (904) 872-6247
Photo of Lindsey K. Bennett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lindsey K. Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL 32202
You’ve officially reached your limit. You know that something needs to change, and you're beyond ready for some relief, but deciding where to start feels like a moving target. You’ve read about attachment styles and emotional dysregulation and most of it makes sense in theory, but things aren’t actually changing. You react to stress and conflict in ways that you don’t fully understand, which often results in being misunderstood and second guessing yourself. Half the time you don't even know what your actual feelings and needs are so... um, how are you supposed to effectively communicate these things to another human?
You’ve officially reached your limit. You know that something needs to change, and you're beyond ready for some relief, but deciding where to start feels like a moving target. You’ve read about attachment styles and emotional dysregulation and most of it makes sense in theory, but things aren’t actually changing. You react to stress and conflict in ways that you don’t fully understand, which often results in being misunderstood and second guessing yourself. Half the time you don't even know what your actual feelings and needs are so... um, how are you supposed to effectively communicate these things to another human?
(904) 204-1679 View (904) 204-1679
Photo of Christina Lee Diley, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Christina Lee Diley
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
3 Endorsed
Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL 32202
I’m a registered mental health counselor intern dedicated to providing compassionate and individualized care that fosters a safe and supportive environment. With a person-centered approach, I believe in the importance of creating a space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely. By incorporating creative interventions (art, writing, and other expressive techniques), I encourage you to engage in the therapeutic process in ways that resonate with you personally. I am committed to honoring your journey, and strive to empower you to navigate life’s challenges, cultivate personal growth, and achieve meaningful change.
I’m a registered mental health counselor intern dedicated to providing compassionate and individualized care that fosters a safe and supportive environment. With a person-centered approach, I believe in the importance of creating a space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely. By incorporating creative interventions (art, writing, and other expressive techniques), I encourage you to engage in the therapeutic process in ways that resonate with you personally. I am committed to honoring your journey, and strive to empower you to navigate life’s challenges, cultivate personal growth, and achieve meaningful change.
(904) 682-9368 View (904) 682-9368
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL 32202
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
(904) 664-5029 View (904) 664-5029
Photo of Dr. Robert Zeglin, Counselor, PhD, MPA, NCC, CST, LMHC
Dr. Robert Zeglin
Counselor, PhD, MPA, NCC, CST, LMHC
4 Endorsed
Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Are you feeling stuck, misunderstood, or overwhelmed? Whether navigating sexual issues, relationship challenges, work stress, or personal growth, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore your concerns. I help clients align their lives with their values and priorities, fostering authenticity and fulfillment. As a certified sex therapist, I specialize in intimacy and sexuality, helping individuals and couples navigate desire, communication, and connection. I also support pilots, first responders, executives and other safety-critical professionals facing unique career pressures, prioritizing confidentiality and sensitivity.
Are you feeling stuck, misunderstood, or overwhelmed? Whether navigating sexual issues, relationship challenges, work stress, or personal growth, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore your concerns. I help clients align their lives with their values and priorities, fostering authenticity and fulfillment. As a certified sex therapist, I specialize in intimacy and sexuality, helping individuals and couples navigate desire, communication, and connection. I also support pilots, first responders, executives and other safety-critical professionals facing unique career pressures, prioritizing confidentiality and sensitivity.
(904) 906-8596 View (904) 906-8596
Photo of Joe Rawlins, Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW
Joe Rawlins
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW
Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL 32202
I offer therapy for individuals and partnerships who are navigating their anxieties, depressions, thoughts, and feelings - with just themselves or with their partners, families, and communities. I specialize in a few areas of neurodiversity, intimacy, and queerness that can be viewed in depth on my website.
I offer therapy for individuals and partnerships who are navigating their anxieties, depressions, thoughts, and feelings - with just themselves or with their partners, families, and communities. I specialize in a few areas of neurodiversity, intimacy, and queerness that can be viewed in depth on my website.
(904) 664-1643 View (904) 664-1643
Photo of Waynettia M Kirtsey-Johnson, Counselor, LMHC
Waynettia M Kirtsey-Johnson
Counselor, LMHC
Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL 32202
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. I want to walk alongside you and help to empower you. Together, we find hope. Together, we identify your goals that are important to you. As we work together, your goals may evolve as you gain new insights. We can adapt your plan at any time to ensure that it is relevant and in line with your needs. I am here to provide you with the support and tools to help you navigate where you want to be.
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. I want to walk alongside you and help to empower you. Together, we find hope. Together, we identify your goals that are important to you. As we work together, your goals may evolve as you gain new insights. We can adapt your plan at any time to ensure that it is relevant and in line with your needs. I am here to provide you with the support and tools to help you navigate where you want to be.
(904) 352-8696 View (904) 352-8696
Photo of Ashley Longabaugh-Cantos, Counselor, LMHC
Ashley Longabaugh-Cantos
Counselor, LMHC
4 Endorsed
Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL 32202
I am so glad you're here! I work with people of all ages—kiddos, teens, and adults—and I’m passionate about mental wellness. Whether you're struggling with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, loss, depression, or navigating life changes, I’m here to help. I also specialize in working with those dealing with trauma, grief, military life issues, perinatal and reproductive health issues. In my practice, I deeply appreciate diverse experiences and the importance of creating a supportive, judgment-free space where you feel respected and heard.
I am so glad you're here! I work with people of all ages—kiddos, teens, and adults—and I’m passionate about mental wellness. Whether you're struggling with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, loss, depression, or navigating life changes, I’m here to help. I also specialize in working with those dealing with trauma, grief, military life issues, perinatal and reproductive health issues. In my practice, I deeply appreciate diverse experiences and the importance of creating a supportive, judgment-free space where you feel respected and heard.
(904) 709-7238 View (904) 709-7238
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL 32202
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
(904) 467-1290 View (904) 467-1290
Photo of Charlotte Osborne, LMHC
Charlotte Osborne
Verified Verified
Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL 32202
I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC). I received a BS degree in Psychology at the University of Central Florida. I attended Nova Southeastern University receiving a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have over 15 years experience working as mental health therapist and addiction counselor. I specialize in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, OCD, personality disorders, and ADHD. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and integrative therapy. My style is warm, transparent, and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion .
I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC). I received a BS degree in Psychology at the University of Central Florida. I attended Nova Southeastern University receiving a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have over 15 years experience working as mental health therapist and addiction counselor. I specialize in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, OCD, personality disorders, and ADHD. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and integrative therapy. My style is warm, transparent, and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion .
(904) 867-2770 View (904) 867-2770
Photo of Eric C. Thurmond, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS
Eric C. Thurmond
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS
3 Endorsed
Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Eric Thurmond is a Licensed Professional Counselor and native of Rabun County Georgia. He received his B.A. in Psychology from Piedmont College and his M.S. in Clinical Counseling Psychology from Brenau University. He maintains a physical office in Clayton, GA but offers telehealth services as well. He has practiced as an outpatient therapist for over 12 years and works with child, teen, and adult populations alike. It is his goal to provide the highest quality counseling services from a thought-provoking and informed Christian perspective of hope and healing.
Eric Thurmond is a Licensed Professional Counselor and native of Rabun County Georgia. He received his B.A. in Psychology from Piedmont College and his M.S. in Clinical Counseling Psychology from Brenau University. He maintains a physical office in Clayton, GA but offers telehealth services as well. He has practiced as an outpatient therapist for over 12 years and works with child, teen, and adult populations alike. It is his goal to provide the highest quality counseling services from a thought-provoking and informed Christian perspective of hope and healing.
(706) 686-3661 View (706) 686-3661
Photo of Jared Tortosa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jared Tortosa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I was born and raised in Europe where I learned the value of community and healthy relationships as an intrinsic part of life. I have worked professionally for 20 years with children, youth, and adults. I am versed in outpatient counseling, psychiatric inpatient care, crisis intervention, and residential treatment. I served on Salt Lake County’s crisis response team for 6 years. I enjoy most working with individuals and couples to see my client’s lives be enhanced and empowered through my practice. I am fluent in English and Spanish.
I was born and raised in Europe where I learned the value of community and healthy relationships as an intrinsic part of life. I have worked professionally for 20 years with children, youth, and adults. I am versed in outpatient counseling, psychiatric inpatient care, crisis intervention, and residential treatment. I served on Salt Lake County’s crisis response team for 6 years. I enjoy most working with individuals and couples to see my client’s lives be enhanced and empowered through my practice. I am fluent in English and Spanish.
(801) 212-9937 View (801) 212-9937
Photo of Jordan Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jordan Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL 32260
A typical session with me is relaxed, supportive, and genuinely centered on you. You are the captain of the ship—setting the direction, choosing the pace, and deciding what feels most important to explore. My role is to be the navigator, offering guidance, tools, and perspective to help you move toward the goals that matter to you. I bring a laid-back but steady presence, creating a space where you can talk openly, process emotions safely, and explore patterns without pressure or judgment. My goal is to help you feel understood, empowered, and equipped with the tools you need to move forward with confidence and clarity.
A typical session with me is relaxed, supportive, and genuinely centered on you. You are the captain of the ship—setting the direction, choosing the pace, and deciding what feels most important to explore. My role is to be the navigator, offering guidance, tools, and perspective to help you move toward the goals that matter to you. I bring a laid-back but steady presence, creating a space where you can talk openly, process emotions safely, and explore patterns without pressure or judgment. My goal is to help you feel understood, empowered, and equipped with the tools you need to move forward with confidence and clarity.
(228) 338-1684 View (228) 338-1684
Photo of Amanda Kohl, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA, CTP
Amanda Kohl
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA, CTP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Like most of my clients, I spent years doing all the “right” things to heal. I read the books, went to therapy, and understood my trauma logically, but that didn’t stop the depressive episodes or the way my body would go into panic mode when something triggered a memory. What finally helped was therapy that focused on nervous system safety and processing trauma at its root, not just talking about it. That experience is why I’m so passionate about helping other survivors of sexual, betrayal, or relationship trauma who want to feel calm, connected, and able to fully enjoy the life they’ve worked hard to build.
Like most of my clients, I spent years doing all the “right” things to heal. I read the books, went to therapy, and understood my trauma logically, but that didn’t stop the depressive episodes or the way my body would go into panic mode when something triggered a memory. What finally helped was therapy that focused on nervous system safety and processing trauma at its root, not just talking about it. That experience is why I’m so passionate about helping other survivors of sexual, betrayal, or relationship trauma who want to feel calm, connected, and able to fully enjoy the life they’ve worked hard to build.
(727) 761-8948 View (727) 761-8948
Photo of Alejandro Arias, Psychologist, PsyD
Alejandro Arias
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
I specialize in bilingual psychological and neuropsychological testing. I test for memory disorders, Long Term Disability cases, Immigration cases, Hardship cases, court ordered cases, Fitness for parenting, Fitness for Duty, Forensic/expert witness, workers compensation, Autism, Developmental Delays, special accomodations for testing (SAT, GRE, USMLE, MCAT, LSAT etc), psychosexual evaluations, ADHD, IQ, Gifted, Learning Disability, Personality disorders, anxiety and depression. I provide assistance in legal neuropsychological document reviews. A thorough evaluation will often shed light into years of academic/personal underachievement and with proper detection, provide meaningful correction to troubling personal issues. A new office location has just opened in the Lakeland/Polk County area.
I specialize in bilingual psychological and neuropsychological testing. I test for memory disorders, Long Term Disability cases, Immigration cases, Hardship cases, court ordered cases, Fitness for parenting, Fitness for Duty, Forensic/expert witness, workers compensation, Autism, Developmental Delays, special accomodations for testing (SAT, GRE, USMLE, MCAT, LSAT etc), psychosexual evaluations, ADHD, IQ, Gifted, Learning Disability, Personality disorders, anxiety and depression. I provide assistance in legal neuropsychological document reviews. A thorough evaluation will often shed light into years of academic/personal underachievement and with proper detection, provide meaningful correction to troubling personal issues. A new office location has just opened in the Lakeland/Polk County area.
(305) 834-4509 View (305) 834-4509
Photo of Albert Simpson Jr. - Philemon Ministry Of Counseling Academy, Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Philemon Ministry Of Counseling Academy
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Serves Area
I'm a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor and Board Certified as a Temperament Specialist and Clinical Supervisor by the National Christian Counselors Association. In addition, I'm Supreme Court Certified County, Family, and Circuit-Civil Mediator and Court appointed Child Custody Evaluator; Certified Thinking for a Change Facilitator. Also, I facilitate and provides counseling and coping mechanism, and adjustments techniques to the reentry individuals transitioning from jails and prisons as well as helping their family members with the life adjustments and understanding chronic disorders, pharmacological regimens and management.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor and Board Certified as a Temperament Specialist and Clinical Supervisor by the National Christian Counselors Association. In addition, I'm Supreme Court Certified County, Family, and Circuit-Civil Mediator and Court appointed Child Custody Evaluator; Certified Thinking for a Change Facilitator. Also, I facilitate and provides counseling and coping mechanism, and adjustments techniques to the reentry individuals transitioning from jails and prisons as well as helping their family members with the life adjustments and understanding chronic disorders, pharmacological regimens and management.
(904) 344-0689 View (904) 344-0689
Photo of Cadija Barnett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NPP-F, C-IMH
Cadija Barnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NPP-F, C-IMH
Serves Area
My ideal client seeks balance, clarity, and resilience while navigating emotional overwhelm, self-doubt, or life transitions. They desire holistic healing, integrating mind, body, and spirit for a deeper sense of purpose and connection. They value personalized support that considers their unique challenges, such as stress, unresolved trauma, or spiritual disconnection. Their goal is to experience greater peace, emotional regulation, and fulfillment. At Holistic Mental Health Services, we provide compassionate, somatic, and spiritual holistic counseling to guide you toward a more empowered and purposeful life and whole being.
My ideal client seeks balance, clarity, and resilience while navigating emotional overwhelm, self-doubt, or life transitions. They desire holistic healing, integrating mind, body, and spirit for a deeper sense of purpose and connection. They value personalized support that considers their unique challenges, such as stress, unresolved trauma, or spiritual disconnection. Their goal is to experience greater peace, emotional regulation, and fulfillment. At Holistic Mental Health Services, we provide compassionate, somatic, and spiritual holistic counseling to guide you toward a more empowered and purposeful life and whole being.
(786) 869-3803 View (786) 869-3803

See more therapy options for Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL

200+

Average cost per session

$129

Therapists in Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
70% Self Esteem
66% Relationship Issues
65% Trauma and PTSD
64% Stress
52% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
77% Cigna and Evernorth
64% Optum

How Therapists in Downtown Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL see their clients

64% Online Only
36% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

76% Female
22% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Downtown Jacksonville?

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.