Therapists in Lake Forest, IL

Photo of Robert R Dunevant, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Robert R Dunevant
Counselor, MA, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I work with people who want to overcome personal obstacles that seem to recur again and again. While it is sometimes possible to face such issues alone, you may reach the point where another set of eyes and ears is necessary. Difficulties such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trust, and anger issues, can be more complex than they first appear. Together, we will pay close attention to the way you experience yourself and others. Over time, you may begin to see and do things differently and with a greater sense of freedom and authenticity.
I work with people who want to overcome personal obstacles that seem to recur again and again. While it is sometimes possible to face such issues alone, you may reach the point where another set of eyes and ears is necessary. Difficulties such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trust, and anger issues, can be more complex than they first appear. Together, we will pay close attention to the way you experience yourself and others. Over time, you may begin to see and do things differently and with a greater sense of freedom and authenticity.
(872) 228-2744 View (872) 228-2744
Photo of Mia Rosenthal, Counselor, LCPC
Mia Rosenthal
Counselor, LCPC
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Mia is the Co-Owner and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor at MiLCounseling,PLLC who works with individuals of all ages, particularly older children, adolescents, adults, and families. Mia utilizes CBT, DBT, ERP, ACT, mindfulness, play, and art therapy in her practice, while taking a holistic view of each individual’s entire life.
Mia is the Co-Owner and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor at MiLCounseling,PLLC who works with individuals of all ages, particularly older children, adolescents, adults, and families. Mia utilizes CBT, DBT, ERP, ACT, mindfulness, play, and art therapy in her practice, while taking a holistic view of each individual’s entire life.
(224) 332-3733 View (224) 332-3733
Photo of Angele Close, Psychologist, PhD
Angele Close
Psychologist, PhD
Lake Forest, IL 60045
While life is beautiful - it also includes hardship, sorrow and deep suffering. Being a mom in today's world can be challenging and overwhelming. Too many mothers struggle with self-blame, shame, guilt, and anger they don't understand. I help moms make sense of their emotions, thoughts, and beliefs so they can shift their lives from the inside out. Mothers' and women's mental health has been de-valued in traditional approaches. I bring in experienced training in Internal Family Systems, a coaching certification with mothers and matrescence, and over a decade of clinical skills and experience.
While life is beautiful - it also includes hardship, sorrow and deep suffering. Being a mom in today's world can be challenging and overwhelming. Too many mothers struggle with self-blame, shame, guilt, and anger they don't understand. I help moms make sense of their emotions, thoughts, and beliefs so they can shift their lives from the inside out. Mothers' and women's mental health has been de-valued in traditional approaches. I bring in experienced training in Internal Family Systems, a coaching certification with mothers and matrescence, and over a decade of clinical skills and experience.
(224) 243-6379 View (224) 243-6379
Photo of Matthew D Selekman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CRADC
Matthew D Selekman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CRADC
2 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
My ideal client is someone seeking comprehensive support in their mental health journey, whether as an individual, couple, or family. They may be facing challenges related to addiction, relationship dynamics, or overall emotional well-being. Their needs include guidance, understanding, and effective strategies to navigate their issues. Ultimately, they want to build healthier relationships, achieve personal growth, and enhance their overall quality of life. As an approved supervisor with the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, I am dedicated to helping them reach their goals.
My ideal client is someone seeking comprehensive support in their mental health journey, whether as an individual, couple, or family. They may be facing challenges related to addiction, relationship dynamics, or overall emotional well-being. Their needs include guidance, understanding, and effective strategies to navigate their issues. Ultimately, they want to build healthier relationships, achieve personal growth, and enhance their overall quality of life. As an approved supervisor with the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, I am dedicated to helping them reach their goals.
(847) 850-0712 View (847) 850-0712
Photo of Sharon Lin, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Sharon Lin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of clinical experience in community and private practice settings, having worked with adolescents and adults in individual, couples, and family modalities. I have extensive experience in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorders, school/academic problems, infidelity, stages of life, stress management and relationship/marital difficulties. I am fluent in English and Mandarin, and am experienced in working with clients regarding cultural adjustments, cross-generational issues in families, bi-cultural relationships and domestic violence.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of clinical experience in community and private practice settings, having worked with adolescents and adults in individual, couples, and family modalities. I have extensive experience in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorders, school/academic problems, infidelity, stages of life, stress management and relationship/marital difficulties. I am fluent in English and Mandarin, and am experienced in working with clients regarding cultural adjustments, cross-generational issues in families, bi-cultural relationships and domestic violence.
(773) 466-6785 View (773) 466-6785
Photo of Brittany Baker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC
Brittany Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC
2 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Are stress, worry, and your long to-do list keeping you up at night? Are you stuck thinking about challenging relationships, old wounds, or traumatic experiences? I have helped many like you find their version of success personally and professionally and find inner calm by empowering them to create change. Many of my clients seek a supportive space to better understand hard experiences and relationships, explore emotions, examine thought and behavior patterns, draw on strengths, and improve their ability to cope. Together, we find the solutions to feel more joy, experience fewer sleepless nights, and reinvest in life positively.
Are stress, worry, and your long to-do list keeping you up at night? Are you stuck thinking about challenging relationships, old wounds, or traumatic experiences? I have helped many like you find their version of success personally and professionally and find inner calm by empowering them to create change. Many of my clients seek a supportive space to better understand hard experiences and relationships, explore emotions, examine thought and behavior patterns, draw on strengths, and improve their ability to cope. Together, we find the solutions to feel more joy, experience fewer sleepless nights, and reinvest in life positively.
(224) 404-2444 View (224) 404-2444
Photo of David J. Goodman, Psychologist, PhD
David J. Goodman
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Do you need someone to help you understand why you are feeling the way you do? A professional to help you make sense of it all . . . and guide you in a healthy direction? If so, set up a courtesy consultation to find out if we are a good fit. In therapy with me, you’ll feel supported and accepted, and we'll track your goals closely so that you achieve them as quickly as possible. So, if you're ready to feel much better, simply go to my website and click the “Courtesy Consultation” button.
Do you need someone to help you understand why you are feeling the way you do? A professional to help you make sense of it all . . . and guide you in a healthy direction? If so, set up a courtesy consultation to find out if we are a good fit. In therapy with me, you’ll feel supported and accepted, and we'll track your goals closely so that you achieve them as quickly as possible. So, if you're ready to feel much better, simply go to my website and click the “Courtesy Consultation” button.
(224) 464-3663 View (224) 464-3663
Photo of Glynis Fresia - Glynis K. Fresia Counseling & Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC
Glynis K. Fresia Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC
Online Only
Hi, I’m Glynis. I specialize in treating adult women. I work with trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and adjusting to difficult life challenges. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) offering teletherapy to residents of Colorado, Texas, Illinois, and Florida.
Hi, I’m Glynis. I specialize in treating adult women. I work with trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and adjusting to difficult life challenges. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) offering teletherapy to residents of Colorado, Texas, Illinois, and Florida.
(708) 578-5125 View (708) 578-5125
Photo of Joanna Klimek, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, ADHD-, CCSP
Joanna Klimek
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, ADHD-, CCSP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My Clients: I specialize in working with emerging adults and adults, specifically focusing on students, professionals, and entrepreneurs dealing with stress, anxiety, and executive functioning challenges. My clients often seek to improve relationships, alleviate symptoms of ADHD, Anxiety and Depression, and gain clarity in their pursuit of academic, personal, and career goals. I help my clients develop self-awareness and improve emotional intelligence, as well as create healthier habits, and learn effective strategies to handle life transitions. My aim is to create an environment that fosters motivation and provides mental clarity.
My Clients: I specialize in working with emerging adults and adults, specifically focusing on students, professionals, and entrepreneurs dealing with stress, anxiety, and executive functioning challenges. My clients often seek to improve relationships, alleviate symptoms of ADHD, Anxiety and Depression, and gain clarity in their pursuit of academic, personal, and career goals. I help my clients develop self-awareness and improve emotional intelligence, as well as create healthier habits, and learn effective strategies to handle life transitions. My aim is to create an environment that fosters motivation and provides mental clarity.
(708) 286-5388 View (708) 286-5388
Photo of Christina Marie Dyer, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Christina Marie Dyer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
Welcome. I’m happy you’ve found your way here. Whether you’re navigating long-term difficulties, striving for personal growth, or seeking a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings, I’m here to walk alongside you. My goal is to offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. It takes courage to seek help. Together, we can work toward healing, clarity, and building the strength you need to move forward. I believe in meeting you where you are, honoring your unique journey, and empowering you to find the tools and insights to live your best life.
Welcome. I’m happy you’ve found your way here. Whether you’re navigating long-term difficulties, striving for personal growth, or seeking a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings, I’m here to walk alongside you. My goal is to offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. It takes courage to seek help. Together, we can work toward healing, clarity, and building the strength you need to move forward. I believe in meeting you where you are, honoring your unique journey, and empowering you to find the tools and insights to live your best life.
(530) 607-6867 View (530) 607-6867
Photo of Paul Smiley, Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Paul Smiley
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Dr. Paul Smiley is a board certified psychologist who has been independently licensed in the State of Illinois since 2008. He is on staff at Lake Forest Hospital, and manages Parkside Psychological Services, which is dedicated to serving people of all ages and needs. The team of talented providers is committed to understanding the root of client’s concerns and working with them to bring about effective changes for recovery. We are currently accepting patients with a wide spectrum of symptoms, with flexible hours from Monday-Saturday including day and evening appointments. We look forward to being a trusted provider with you!
Dr. Paul Smiley is a board certified psychologist who has been independently licensed in the State of Illinois since 2008. He is on staff at Lake Forest Hospital, and manages Parkside Psychological Services, which is dedicated to serving people of all ages and needs. The team of talented providers is committed to understanding the root of client’s concerns and working with them to bring about effective changes for recovery. We are currently accepting patients with a wide spectrum of symptoms, with flexible hours from Monday-Saturday including day and evening appointments. We look forward to being a trusted provider with you!
(224) 706-1196 View (224) 706-1196
Photo of Corey Wetzel, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, PMH-C
Corey Wetzel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, PMH-C
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a firm believer that the greatest experiences and our most difficult moments include other people. Relationships with others are not always easy to navigate. Experiences we have with other people can have a huge impact on how we feel about ourselves and the world around us. I love to support people exploring their relationship with themselves and how that can have a positive impact on our relationship with others. I have knowledge and experience working with individuals and couples who have experienced trauma, loss, anxiety, depression, parenting, postpartum and identity issues.
I am a firm believer that the greatest experiences and our most difficult moments include other people. Relationships with others are not always easy to navigate. Experiences we have with other people can have a huge impact on how we feel about ourselves and the world around us. I love to support people exploring their relationship with themselves and how that can have a positive impact on our relationship with others. I have knowledge and experience working with individuals and couples who have experienced trauma, loss, anxiety, depression, parenting, postpartum and identity issues.
(224) 524-1918 View (224) 524-1918
Photo of Michaela Malone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Michaela Malone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
2 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Are you navigating the complexities of trauma, ADHD, or identity-related challenges? I provide a safe and affirming space to explore these experiences and work towards healing. I am passionate about working with clients across the age spectrum who are struggling with the effects of trauma, emotional dysregulation, substance use disorders, ADHD, and relational challenges. I also have life experience coping with chronic illness and being a member of the LGBTQ+ community and would love to work with these populations, specifically with youth/ young adults experiencing related challenges.
Are you navigating the complexities of trauma, ADHD, or identity-related challenges? I provide a safe and affirming space to explore these experiences and work towards healing. I am passionate about working with clients across the age spectrum who are struggling with the effects of trauma, emotional dysregulation, substance use disorders, ADHD, and relational challenges. I also have life experience coping with chronic illness and being a member of the LGBTQ+ community and would love to work with these populations, specifically with youth/ young adults experiencing related challenges.
(224) 313-0312 View (224) 313-0312
Photo of Catherine M Cotter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Catherine M Cotter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Contentment and happiness can often feel elusive in the busy, complicated lives that we lead. Sometimes, understanding the reason for our unhappiness seems just as elusive. The way we feel about our true selves as well as the meaning we give certain events in our lives can effect how we cope with the challenges that come our way. Often, we find ourselves in situations that feel beyond our control to recover from. Deep down, you are resilient, and know life could feel better than it does.
Contentment and happiness can often feel elusive in the busy, complicated lives that we lead. Sometimes, understanding the reason for our unhappiness seems just as elusive. The way we feel about our true selves as well as the meaning we give certain events in our lives can effect how we cope with the challenges that come our way. Often, we find ourselves in situations that feel beyond our control to recover from. Deep down, you are resilient, and know life could feel better than it does.
(847) 584-1159 View (847) 584-1159
Photo of Sophia Shlain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SSW
Sophia Shlain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SSW
2 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Sophia brings over 25 years of clinical experience working with adults, couples, families, adolescents, and children across private practice, corporate, and educational settings. A trauma specialist and trained Brainspotting practitioner, she integrates cutting-edge neurobiological methods with traditional psychotherapy and executive coaching to deliver comprehensive, results-driven care. Sophia’s holistic, client-centered approach draws from a range of therapeutic modalities, including; Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Therapies, Psychodynamic Therapy & Internal Family Systems.
Sophia brings over 25 years of clinical experience working with adults, couples, families, adolescents, and children across private practice, corporate, and educational settings. A trauma specialist and trained Brainspotting practitioner, she integrates cutting-edge neurobiological methods with traditional psychotherapy and executive coaching to deliver comprehensive, results-driven care. Sophia’s holistic, client-centered approach draws from a range of therapeutic modalities, including; Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Therapies, Psychodynamic Therapy & Internal Family Systems.
(224) 803-3017 View (224) 803-3017
Photo of Elizabeth Lombardo, Psychologist, PhD, MS, PT
Elizabeth Lombardo
Psychologist, PhD, MS, PT
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Shaquille O'Neal says, "Dr. Lombardo is my head coach for happiness." Every truly great athlete gets coached in not only physical skills but also the mental side of their sport. Why? Because it helps take them to the next level. Whether it is improving confidence, coping with the pressures of competition, managing emotions, increasing your chance of being recruited, dealing with setbacks/errors or recovering from an injury, sports psychology can help you enhance your performance.
Shaquille O'Neal says, "Dr. Lombardo is my head coach for happiness." Every truly great athlete gets coached in not only physical skills but also the mental side of their sport. Why? Because it helps take them to the next level. Whether it is improving confidence, coping with the pressures of competition, managing emotions, increasing your chance of being recruited, dealing with setbacks/errors or recovering from an injury, sports psychology can help you enhance your performance.
(847) 354-4131 View (847) 354-4131
Photo of Alisa J Courtney, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Alisa J Courtney
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I work with individuals,adults and couples. I see each person as a unique individual with strengths and challenges. It is my goal to create a feeling of safety and compassion. It can take courage to enter into therapy and I work with each person in a way that respects their pace, accesses their inner resources, and supports and guides them as new insights and behaviors are evolving. I also use Hypnotherapy and am certified through the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis. Hypnosis can enhance change, help with anxiety, depression, pain, and increase relaxation as well as other issues.
I work with individuals,adults and couples. I see each person as a unique individual with strengths and challenges. It is my goal to create a feeling of safety and compassion. It can take courage to enter into therapy and I work with each person in a way that respects their pace, accesses their inner resources, and supports and guides them as new insights and behaviors are evolving. I also use Hypnotherapy and am certified through the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis. Hypnosis can enhance change, help with anxiety, depression, pain, and increase relaxation as well as other issues.
(847) 512-8987 View (847) 512-8987
Photo of Laura M. Koerner Lcpc, Counselor, LCPC
Laura M. Koerner Lcpc
Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Waitlist for new clients
Your symptoms make sense. Together, we can discover why and how to help you manage them. As a former Big 10 athlete, I am hard working and dedicated to my clients in counseling children, adolescents, adults and parents. I provide a supportive and safe environment with education about neuroscience, self-compassion, meditation and self-care. I constantly seek knowledge to better my practice. I am working to become an ADHD Clinical Services Provider. I love seeing individuals and families grow and make progress!
Your symptoms make sense. Together, we can discover why and how to help you manage them. As a former Big 10 athlete, I am hard working and dedicated to my clients in counseling children, adolescents, adults and parents. I provide a supportive and safe environment with education about neuroscience, self-compassion, meditation and self-care. I constantly seek knowledge to better my practice. I am working to become an ADHD Clinical Services Provider. I love seeing individuals and families grow and make progress!
(224) 707-8481 View (224) 707-8481
Photo of Sophia Shlain - 360 Degrees Wellness and Coaching, Counselor, LCSW, LCPC, MSW, CRADC, CADC
360 Degrees Wellness and Coaching
Counselor, LCSW, LCPC, MSW, CRADC, CADC
Lake Forest, IL 60045
We are a group of board certified psychotherapists and executive coaches specializing in behavioral health. Our highly experienced staff averages more than 18 years experience in their respective fields: Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Solution- Focused, Collaborative and Health-Oriented Therapies. We can help you with: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Low self-esteem, Postpartum depression, Martial or family issues, School problems, Parenting issues, Chronic pain, Grief, Trauma and managing negative feelings.
We are a group of board certified psychotherapists and executive coaches specializing in behavioral health. Our highly experienced staff averages more than 18 years experience in their respective fields: Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Solution- Focused, Collaborative and Health-Oriented Therapies. We can help you with: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Low self-esteem, Postpartum depression, Martial or family issues, School problems, Parenting issues, Chronic pain, Grief, Trauma and managing negative feelings.
(847) 807-1012 View (847) 807-1012
Photo of Amy Hrad, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CYT
Amy Hrad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CYT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My work is centered around a strong therapeutic alliance. I am a personable, compassionate, and non-judgmental therapist who can provide a safe space for you to build a life worth living. I work best with college-aged clients, as well as clients in their 20's and 30's who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, body image distress, and relationship and attachment issues. I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, mindfulness, and yoga therapy, and I tailor therapy to each client's specific needs.
My work is centered around a strong therapeutic alliance. I am a personable, compassionate, and non-judgmental therapist who can provide a safe space for you to build a life worth living. I work best with college-aged clients, as well as clients in their 20's and 30's who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, body image distress, and relationship and attachment issues. I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, mindfulness, and yoga therapy, and I tailor therapy to each client's specific needs.
(847) 796-6400 View (847) 796-6400

See more therapy options for Lake Forest

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Lake Forest, IL

100+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Lake Forest, IL who prioritize treating:

99% Anxiety
94% Depression
81% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
70% Life Transitions
69% Coping Skills
69% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Aetna
50% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Lake Forest, IL see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Lake Forest?

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.