Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Jill S. Waldman, PsyD, Psychologist
Jill S. Waldman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with children, tweens, teens, and young adults. In order to provide the most effective, personalized treatment for my clients, I use a supportive and collaborative approach. Using Cognitive Behavioral, Family Systems, and Behavioral therapeutic interventions, I provide evidenced based therapy to treat a variety of disorders including, anxiety spectrum disorders, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, ADHD, adjustment disorders, and problems related to academic and family stress. Due to my extensive training in medical hospitals, I have experience treating individuals who have sustained traumatic brain injuries (TBI), concussions, and/or who have complex medical diagnoses as well.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with children, tweens, teens, and young adults. In order to provide the most effective, personalized treatment for my clients, I use a supportive and collaborative approach. Using Cognitive Behavioral, Family Systems, and Behavioral therapeutic interventions, I provide evidenced based therapy to treat a variety of disorders including, anxiety spectrum disorders, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, ADHD, adjustment disorders, and problems related to academic and family stress. Due to my extensive training in medical hospitals, I have experience treating individuals who have sustained traumatic brain injuries (TBI), concussions, and/or who have complex medical diagnoses as well.
(971) 205-6236 View (971) 205-6236
Photo of Tikhon Markov, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tikhon Markov
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
Hi! Drawing upon your unique strengths and experiences, we embark on a collaborative journey towards holistic transformation. Together, we explore the depths of your inner world and navigate the challenges of the outer one with purpose and compassion. As Viktor Frankl beautifully said, ‘Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.’ Let’s work together to harness that power and cultivate enduring change that resonates with your deepest aspirations.
Hi! Drawing upon your unique strengths and experiences, we embark on a collaborative journey towards holistic transformation. Together, we explore the depths of your inner world and navigate the challenges of the outer one with purpose and compassion. As Viktor Frankl beautifully said, ‘Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.’ Let’s work together to harness that power and cultivate enduring change that resonates with your deepest aspirations.
(971) 260-9400 View (971) 260-9400
Photo of Steven M Cohn - Marriage and Relationship Counseling, PhD, LMFT, MA, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marriage and Relationship Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Hello, my name is Steven Cohn. Since the onset of Covid 19 I am currently conducting all of my couples sessions via teleconferencing. I meet with couples who live anywhere in Oregon, including Bend, Eugene, and Ashland. My clients are reporting that our online sessions feel just as meaningful and productive as our in-office sessions. If love, intimacy, and passion has faded from your relationship, then I'm here to help. Poor communications, financial problems, low sexual desire, blending a family, child rearing, an affair, in-laws, and/or health concerns can slowly erode relationship vitality in even the most loving unions.
Hello, my name is Steven Cohn. Since the onset of Covid 19 I am currently conducting all of my couples sessions via teleconferencing. I meet with couples who live anywhere in Oregon, including Bend, Eugene, and Ashland. My clients are reporting that our online sessions feel just as meaningful and productive as our in-office sessions. If love, intimacy, and passion has faded from your relationship, then I'm here to help. Poor communications, financial problems, low sexual desire, blending a family, child rearing, an affair, in-laws, and/or health concerns can slowly erode relationship vitality in even the most loving unions.
(503) 610-5372 View (503) 610-5372
Photo of Jenny Park, LCSW, MSS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Park
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
The practice of being human is utterly challenging and incredibly complex. I offer empathetic support for individuals, couples, and families who frequently fall back into their own negative thought patterns and family dynamics. Using a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychology, and a Family Systems approach, I can help you recognize and better understand how an individual action may affect yourself and others.
The practice of being human is utterly challenging and incredibly complex. I offer empathetic support for individuals, couples, and families who frequently fall back into their own negative thought patterns and family dynamics. Using a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychology, and a Family Systems approach, I can help you recognize and better understand how an individual action may affect yourself and others.
(503) 386-0985 View (503) 386-0985
Photo of Kim Conrow, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Conrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
My career as a licensed professional counselor, Lewis & Clark adjunct faculty member, and clinical supervisor, have allowed me to help clients set achievable goals with realistic objectives. I understand the challenges of transition and the importance of navigating change while remaining true to one's personal core values. My work has centered on eating disorders, addiction, depression/anxiety and divorce/relationship recovery. By providing a safe place for healing and growth, clients will begin to understand that opposing feelings are often a normal part of the recovery process. My hope is to support you as you awaken to the miraculous.
My career as a licensed professional counselor, Lewis & Clark adjunct faculty member, and clinical supervisor, have allowed me to help clients set achievable goals with realistic objectives. I understand the challenges of transition and the importance of navigating change while remaining true to one's personal core values. My work has centered on eating disorders, addiction, depression/anxiety and divorce/relationship recovery. By providing a safe place for healing and growth, clients will begin to understand that opposing feelings are often a normal part of the recovery process. My hope is to support you as you awaken to the miraculous.
(503) 917-3524 View (503) 917-3524
Photo of Elisabeth Duckwell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elisabeth Duckwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a black woman therapist that operates from liberation mindset. Majority of my work is with black and multiracial youth and families as well as black femmes & non binary folks. Additional expertise include supporting people of faith deconstruct spirituality ie. purity culture and spiritual abuse. Curious to learn more about you. Are you feeling all the things right now? Worried thoughts or insomnia? Let's work together to create a plan. Whether you are motivated to start therapy or uncertain about if therapy is the right fit, let's explore options to create the full life you deserve.
I am a black woman therapist that operates from liberation mindset. Majority of my work is with black and multiracial youth and families as well as black femmes & non binary folks. Additional expertise include supporting people of faith deconstruct spirituality ie. purity culture and spiritual abuse. Curious to learn more about you. Are you feeling all the things right now? Worried thoughts or insomnia? Let's work together to create a plan. Whether you are motivated to start therapy or uncertain about if therapy is the right fit, let's explore options to create the full life you deserve.
(971) 251-9591 View (971) 251-9591
Photo of Mara Sobesky, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mara Sobesky
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
Often, a sense of disconnection brings clients to therapy, seeking more agency, choice, and belonging in their lives. Many people experience a tension in desiring both stability & change, surrender & control, freedom & its’ limitations. The distress behind these mutual and conflicting needs is part of what clients want to explore when they choose to work with me. I work with individuals, romantic or platonic partners, and adult families who want to deepen their sense of connection to life, to their relationships, and to themselves. Many of my clients are LGBTQ+, identify as neurodivergent, or are in mixed-neurotype relationships.
Often, a sense of disconnection brings clients to therapy, seeking more agency, choice, and belonging in their lives. Many people experience a tension in desiring both stability & change, surrender & control, freedom & its’ limitations. The distress behind these mutual and conflicting needs is part of what clients want to explore when they choose to work with me. I work with individuals, romantic or platonic partners, and adult families who want to deepen their sense of connection to life, to their relationships, and to themselves. Many of my clients are LGBTQ+, identify as neurodivergent, or are in mixed-neurotype relationships.
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Photo of Eddie Chai Yuen Lui, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eddie Chai Yuen Lui
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225
Eddie graduated from Portland State University’s Master of Social Work in 2015. He also holds a Bachelors of Arts degree, majoring in Psychology and minored in Philosophy. Eddie has experience working with individuals and families in various settings in the field of social work since 2011. Services Offered Individual therapy with Children, Adolescents & Adult, Parenting Skills Reinforcement Theoretical Orientation Eddie has studied and practiced Collaborative Proactive Solution (CPS), Functional Family Therapy (FFT), and a variety of theories and researches from Social Psychology.
Eddie graduated from Portland State University’s Master of Social Work in 2015. He also holds a Bachelors of Arts degree, majoring in Psychology and minored in Philosophy. Eddie has experience working with individuals and families in various settings in the field of social work since 2011. Services Offered Individual therapy with Children, Adolescents & Adult, Parenting Skills Reinforcement Theoretical Orientation Eddie has studied and practiced Collaborative Proactive Solution (CPS), Functional Family Therapy (FFT), and a variety of theories and researches from Social Psychology.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Konrad von Walther - Konrad von Walther Lcsw LLC, CADC, I, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Konrad von Walther Lcsw LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CADC, I, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212
I AM accepting clients at this time. If you desire results, welcome. I offer HIPAA secure video conference and face-to-face therapy. I work with people feeling unsatisfied with their current life and emotional situations, looking for a deeper sense of fulfillment, connection, and/or balance in their lives. I help find the connection between their thoughts and feelings. I explore how desires manifest themselves as: depression, anxiety, fears, disinterest, grief, low self-esteem, etc. I also explore how these impact their body. He offers spiritual guidance and perspectives to those that wish. Labor issue therapist/legal ref.
I AM accepting clients at this time. If you desire results, welcome. I offer HIPAA secure video conference and face-to-face therapy. I work with people feeling unsatisfied with their current life and emotional situations, looking for a deeper sense of fulfillment, connection, and/or balance in their lives. I help find the connection between their thoughts and feelings. I explore how desires manifest themselves as: depression, anxiety, fears, disinterest, grief, low self-esteem, etc. I also explore how these impact their body. He offers spiritual guidance and perspectives to those that wish. Labor issue therapist/legal ref.
(503) 512-6042 View (503) 512-6042
Photo of Christine M Bethel, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine M Bethel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Happy and successful, the person/couple others admire, the quirky genius, the consummate fixer and cheer-bringer...after all, you do draw from a deep well of magic and joy! Maybe only your closest people know that for far longer than you care to admit, it's actually felt like you've been bobbing for apples in that magical well, rather than drinking deeply and sharing from the overflow. It's so strange that the powerhouse toolbox you've developed to maintain alignment with your leading growth edges of self, relationships, career and life, just isn't getting the job done anymore. It's exhausting, confounding & sometimes terrifying.
Happy and successful, the person/couple others admire, the quirky genius, the consummate fixer and cheer-bringer...after all, you do draw from a deep well of magic and joy! Maybe only your closest people know that for far longer than you care to admit, it's actually felt like you've been bobbing for apples in that magical well, rather than drinking deeply and sharing from the overflow. It's so strange that the powerhouse toolbox you've developed to maintain alignment with your leading growth edges of self, relationships, career and life, just isn't getting the job done anymore. It's exhausting, confounding & sometimes terrifying.
(503) 713-6647 View (503) 713-6647
Photo of Michelle van Ryn - Michelle van Ryn, PhD, LMFT, LMFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle van Ryn, PhD, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97236  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I may a good fit for you if you are looking for acceptance, insight, guidance and therapeutic advice for struggles with any of the following: stress, anxiety, trauma, sexual problems or concerns, relationship issues, stress connected to experiences of discrimination or marginalization, or general life challenges.I specialize in, but am not limited to, clients who are in academia (faculty, researchers), health care (physicians, etc) and law (attorneys).I have a deep interest and training relationship and sex therapy, trauma, anxiety, and the social/ emotional issues faced by intellectually gifted adults. NOTE: I am licensed in MN.
I may a good fit for you if you are looking for acceptance, insight, guidance and therapeutic advice for struggles with any of the following: stress, anxiety, trauma, sexual problems or concerns, relationship issues, stress connected to experiences of discrimination or marginalization, or general life challenges.I specialize in, but am not limited to, clients who are in academia (faculty, researchers), health care (physicians, etc) and law (attorneys).I have a deep interest and training relationship and sex therapy, trauma, anxiety, and the social/ emotional issues faced by intellectually gifted adults. NOTE: I am licensed in MN.
(612) 324-4329 View (612) 324-4329
Photo of Bina Benight, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bina Benight
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I am here to support your growth, exploration, and healing. I love this work! I'm passionate about building therapeutic relationships rooted in humor, warmth, and non-judgement. I know finding the right therapist can be overwhelming, so please let me know if you have any questions.
Welcome! I am here to support your growth, exploration, and healing. I love this work! I'm passionate about building therapeutic relationships rooted in humor, warmth, and non-judgement. I know finding the right therapist can be overwhelming, so please let me know if you have any questions.
(503) 461-6918 View (503) 461-6918
Photo of Beth Bogdon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beth Bogdon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Many of us have been taught that who we are is not okay. Because of this we lose touch with important parts of ourselves. This can lead to feeling overwhelmed or isolated. Counseling is the process of shedding light on these unexplored areas and regaining connection to ourselves and others. Often this process can be emotional. "Anytime you're gonna grow, you're gonna lose something. You're losing what you're hanging onto to keep safe. You're losing habits that you're comfortable with, you're losing familiarity," James Hillman.
Many of us have been taught that who we are is not okay. Because of this we lose touch with important parts of ourselves. This can lead to feeling overwhelmed or isolated. Counseling is the process of shedding light on these unexplored areas and regaining connection to ourselves and others. Often this process can be emotional. "Anytime you're gonna grow, you're gonna lose something. You're losing what you're hanging onto to keep safe. You're losing habits that you're comfortable with, you're losing familiarity," James Hillman.
(971) 339-0174 View (971) 339-0174
Photo of Dr. Lily Iteld Child And Adolescent Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Lily Iteld Child And Adolescent Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
I'm Dr. Lily, a board certified child and adolescent psychologist. Put simply, I work with kids and their parents to make daily life easier. I help kids develop skills and strategies to manage the difficulties they are facing and help parents develop tools to allow their child to thrive. I love the work I do and am honored to help families during their challenging times. With over a decade of experience in school and medical settings, I specialize in working with children and adolescents with anxiety, depression, challenges with self-regulation, chronic illness, pain management, picky eating/ARFID, encopresis, and tic disorders.
I'm Dr. Lily, a board certified child and adolescent psychologist. Put simply, I work with kids and their parents to make daily life easier. I help kids develop skills and strategies to manage the difficulties they are facing and help parents develop tools to allow their child to thrive. I love the work I do and am honored to help families during their challenging times. With over a decade of experience in school and medical settings, I specialize in working with children and adolescents with anxiety, depression, challenges with self-regulation, chronic illness, pain management, picky eating/ARFID, encopresis, and tic disorders.
(971) 251-1761 View (971) 251-1761
Photo of Gillian Boudreau, PhD, Psychologist
Gillian Boudreau
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and a licensed school psychologist. I hold a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Long Island University in Brooklyn, NY. Urban and rural, inpatient and outpatient work settings have taught me about the many challenges an individual may face including experiences of oppression and injustice, as well as a deep appreciation for the richness of the human experience. My style is described as warm, analytical and collaborative, balancing deep emotional work with elements of humor and lightness when appropriate. I aim to help clients address the root of complex challenges, in a safe and supported way.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and a licensed school psychologist. I hold a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Long Island University in Brooklyn, NY. Urban and rural, inpatient and outpatient work settings have taught me about the many challenges an individual may face including experiences of oppression and injustice, as well as a deep appreciation for the richness of the human experience. My style is described as warm, analytical and collaborative, balancing deep emotional work with elements of humor and lightness when appropriate. I aim to help clients address the root of complex challenges, in a safe and supported way.
(971) 306-4786 View (971) 306-4786
Photo of Elisa Lewis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elisa Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Elisa, I am a California native, and Licensed as a Social Worker in California, Oregon, and Washington State. I work with individuals and couples. Do you isolate, feel misunderstood, or have difficult connecting to others? Have you been told you are "too sensitive", "too intense", or "too intense"? Do you ever feel like no matter how hard you try - you can't catch a break? Do you want to hide parts of yourself? Do you want to build more connection in your relationship? You are not alone. Often times our old wounds and experiences get in the way of living. Contact me if you are ready for a fresh start.
Hi, my name is Elisa, I am a California native, and Licensed as a Social Worker in California, Oregon, and Washington State. I work with individuals and couples. Do you isolate, feel misunderstood, or have difficult connecting to others? Have you been told you are "too sensitive", "too intense", or "too intense"? Do you ever feel like no matter how hard you try - you can't catch a break? Do you want to hide parts of yourself? Do you want to build more connection in your relationship? You are not alone. Often times our old wounds and experiences get in the way of living. Contact me if you are ready for a fresh start.
(503) 966-5059 View (503) 966-5059
Photo of Sarah Mustafa, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sarah Mustafa
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am delighted that you found the courage to consider what could be your first brave step to seeing a different perspective for change in your life. I love working with a wide range of people, including depression & anxiety, sex & relationship challenges, trauma, racial idenitiy, family conflict, and stress management. I like for potential clients to know that therapy will be challenging but hopefully rewarding. I hope to co-create an inviting space for you to freely express yourself & explore the depths of your emotions. My motto as your therapist is to be your co-pilot to help support you achieve the life goals you desire.
I am delighted that you found the courage to consider what could be your first brave step to seeing a different perspective for change in your life. I love working with a wide range of people, including depression & anxiety, sex & relationship challenges, trauma, racial idenitiy, family conflict, and stress management. I like for potential clients to know that therapy will be challenging but hopefully rewarding. I hope to co-create an inviting space for you to freely express yourself & explore the depths of your emotions. My motto as your therapist is to be your co-pilot to help support you achieve the life goals you desire.
(971) 395-4018 View (971) 395-4018
Photo of Deanna Allmaras, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Deanna Allmaras
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97220  (Online Only)
Are you seeking to improve communication and connection with your partner? I know you're doing the best you can with the relationship tools you have. Some of those tools may not be effective; maybe your parents didn't model a great relationship, or your perceptions and judgments of your partner are flawed, or it's just hard to understand what they want. This leads to feeling overwhelmed and discouraged. What you want is relief from turmoil and strength to overcome challenges to gain a better understanding of yourself and your partner. I am here to provide a safe environment for you to say the hard things and hear your needs.
Are you seeking to improve communication and connection with your partner? I know you're doing the best you can with the relationship tools you have. Some of those tools may not be effective; maybe your parents didn't model a great relationship, or your perceptions and judgments of your partner are flawed, or it's just hard to understand what they want. This leads to feeling overwhelmed and discouraged. What you want is relief from turmoil and strength to overcome challenges to gain a better understanding of yourself and your partner. I am here to provide a safe environment for you to say the hard things and hear your needs.
(503) 855-6128 View (503) 855-6128
Photo of Heather Mitchell, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Waitlist for new clients
Heather is a compassionate guide who listens deeply and accepts you where you’re at. She helps you explore your strengths and limitations within a safe context where your thoughts and emotions can be felt, communicated, and understood. Heather is experienced in working with clients struggling with depression, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, relationship stress, and personal growth/exploration. She is specialized in helping women who have experienced infertility or loss due to miscarriage & is an Enneagram expert.
Heather is a compassionate guide who listens deeply and accepts you where you’re at. She helps you explore your strengths and limitations within a safe context where your thoughts and emotions can be felt, communicated, and understood. Heather is experienced in working with clients struggling with depression, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, relationship stress, and personal growth/exploration. She is specialized in helping women who have experienced infertility or loss due to miscarriage & is an Enneagram expert.
(503) 741-2593 View (503) 741-2593
Photo of Mihretu Dessalegne, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mihretu Dessalegne
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Mihretu is a Portland native who’s lived as a first-generation Ethiopian-American in the City of Roses, apart from a few years in Eugene. He’s worked with people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, and various adjustment issues, including cultural adjustment issues. Mihretu’s counseling specialties consist of traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, TraumaFocused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy and Christian Counseling for those who want to incorporate their faith into the counseling sessions. He blends these therapies together in a way that is catered to your unique needs.
Mihretu is a Portland native who’s lived as a first-generation Ethiopian-American in the City of Roses, apart from a few years in Eugene. He’s worked with people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, and various adjustment issues, including cultural adjustment issues. Mihretu’s counseling specialties consist of traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, TraumaFocused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy and Christian Counseling for those who want to incorporate their faith into the counseling sessions. He blends these therapies together in a way that is catered to your unique needs.
(971) 316-5827 x1 View (971) 316-5827 x1
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% Self Esteem
68% Stress
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

53% PacificSource
51% Aetna
40% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
22% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.