Therapists in Columbia, SC

Photo of Catherine Bixler, Counselor, LPC
Catherine Bixler
Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
You can call me Cathy. Are you stuck in your head, overthinking, and/or experiencing physical symptoms of depression, anxiety or trauma? As we go through the experience of life, we learn things about our environment and how to function within that environment. We are always learning and sometimes our brain solidifies messages that are harmful to our mental health, I want to help you restructure those messages so that they are more accurate or helpful. Additionally, I will assist you in the development of skills to manage strong emotions and finally assist you to form solutions to your problems.
You can call me Cathy. Are you stuck in your head, overthinking, and/or experiencing physical symptoms of depression, anxiety or trauma? As we go through the experience of life, we learn things about our environment and how to function within that environment. We are always learning and sometimes our brain solidifies messages that are harmful to our mental health, I want to help you restructure those messages so that they are more accurate or helpful. Additionally, I will assist you in the development of skills to manage strong emotions and finally assist you to form solutions to your problems.
(803) 784-1399 View (803) 784-1399
Photo of Darius Poitier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, MBA
Darius Poitier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, MBA
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29210
Are you having difficulty navigating your life currently? Are you experiencing anxiety and/or depression? Are you struggling to figure out the next steps in your life? Are you unhappy in your current relationship? Are struggling with the "new" normal? Are you asking yourself, why is this happening to me? Do you ask yourself "Now what" ? Having self-esteem issues? Are you struggling with anger management? If you answer yes to any of these questions I am the therapist for you. I am an experienced therapist who has assisted many clients in overcoming mental, emotional, and relational distress.
Are you having difficulty navigating your life currently? Are you experiencing anxiety and/or depression? Are you struggling to figure out the next steps in your life? Are you unhappy in your current relationship? Are struggling with the "new" normal? Are you asking yourself, why is this happening to me? Do you ask yourself "Now what" ? Having self-esteem issues? Are you struggling with anger management? If you answer yes to any of these questions I am the therapist for you. I am an experienced therapist who has assisted many clients in overcoming mental, emotional, and relational distress.
(803) 212-0392 View (803) 212-0392
Photo of Shantay Smith Evans, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAPC
Shantay Smith Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAPC
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29223
I know that reaching out for therapy support can be a scary, yet tremendous first step. You don't have to go through the process alone. Together, we'll create a warm, healthy therapeutic relationship. I want to understand from your point of view. I'll also help you to identify things that can be changed within your environments to help resolve conflicts and alleviate feelings of frustration, anger, sadness, stress and anxiety. Although I offer specialized support to clients of color (See the Client Focus section of my profile), my expertise is multicultural counseling, and my clients are from all ethnic backgrounds.
I know that reaching out for therapy support can be a scary, yet tremendous first step. You don't have to go through the process alone. Together, we'll create a warm, healthy therapeutic relationship. I want to understand from your point of view. I'll also help you to identify things that can be changed within your environments to help resolve conflicts and alleviate feelings of frustration, anger, sadness, stress and anxiety. Although I offer specialized support to clients of color (See the Client Focus section of my profile), my expertise is multicultural counseling, and my clients are from all ethnic backgrounds.
(803) 784-0403 View (803) 784-0403
Photo of Trent Peeler, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Trent Peeler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29203
What brings you to counseling? I love hearing clients' stories, and it is a privilege to come alongside my clients to look at the issues they're facing and collaborate towards a solution. I tend to think a lot of the issues we face come from the things we experience and the lessons we learn from important relationships in our lives, and so I approach therapy from a trauma-informed perspective to unpack those lessons and create an opportunity for growth and change.
What brings you to counseling? I love hearing clients' stories, and it is a privilege to come alongside my clients to look at the issues they're facing and collaborate towards a solution. I tend to think a lot of the issues we face come from the things we experience and the lessons we learn from important relationships in our lives, and so I approach therapy from a trauma-informed perspective to unpack those lessons and create an opportunity for growth and change.
(803) 886-9110 View (803) 886-9110
Photo of Erin Puro, Psychologist
Erin Puro
Psychologist
Columbia, SC 29223
Erin Puro is a fully licensed clinical psychologist. She is a native of Michigan and completed her undergraduate degree at Michigan State University. Erin completed her PhD at Eastern Michigan University and her doctoral internship at the University of Michigan Institute of Human Adjustment. Erin completed her postdoctoral internship at the University of South Carolina Counseling and Human Development Center. She currently works with adult clients and couples (ages 18 and up).
Erin Puro is a fully licensed clinical psychologist. She is a native of Michigan and completed her undergraduate degree at Michigan State University. Erin completed her PhD at Eastern Michigan University and her doctoral internship at the University of Michigan Institute of Human Adjustment. Erin completed her postdoctoral internship at the University of South Carolina Counseling and Human Development Center. She currently works with adult clients and couples (ages 18 and up).
(803) 866-7053 View (803) 866-7053
Photo of Danielle R Filmore, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LAC, MAC, ADC
Danielle R Filmore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LAC, MAC, ADC
Columbia, SC 29210
I believe that your life does not get better by chance. It gets better by change. My approach in therapy is to provide a therapeutic environment that is safe and conducive for change. I pride myself on believing that when you’re given the proper tools to implement along with a desire change can occur. If you are struggling with an addiction, need help coping with anxiety &depression and other various disorders, let me help you by using an eclectic approach (CBT,DBT,SFT,MI). I believe establishing a rapport and meeting you where you are is essential to the therapeutic process.
I believe that your life does not get better by chance. It gets better by change. My approach in therapy is to provide a therapeutic environment that is safe and conducive for change. I pride myself on believing that when you’re given the proper tools to implement along with a desire change can occur. If you are struggling with an addiction, need help coping with anxiety &depression and other various disorders, let me help you by using an eclectic approach (CBT,DBT,SFT,MI). I believe establishing a rapport and meeting you where you are is essential to the therapeutic process.
(803) 902-5497 View (803) 902-5497
Photo of Brittany Harrison, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LPCS-C, CDF
Brittany Harrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LPCS-C, CDF
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
Are you overwhelmed? Do you feel helpless? Questioning your self worth? Do you have trouble trusting others? Are you ready to transform ? With over 10 years of mental health, education, and behavior intervention, I'm here to help you navigate these challenges.
Are you overwhelmed? Do you feel helpless? Questioning your self worth? Do you have trouble trusting others? Are you ready to transform ? With over 10 years of mental health, education, and behavior intervention, I'm here to help you navigate these challenges.
(803) 266-1263 View (803) 266-1263
Photo of Marc J Harari - Comprehensive Psychological Services, LLC, Psychologist, PhD
Welcome! At Comprehensive Psychological Services, we specialize in conducting a broad range of diagnostic evaluations for clinical, educational, disability, civil and criminal forensic purposes and for treatment planning. In order to be objective, thorough, and expedient, we use a battery of psychological tests, customized for the client's needs. We serve individuals and organizations in the private and public sectors. Additionally, we provide expert witness testimony. Additional services include presentation at seminars for psychological services pertaining to Family Court and Law Enforcement professionals.
Welcome! At Comprehensive Psychological Services, we specialize in conducting a broad range of diagnostic evaluations for clinical, educational, disability, civil and criminal forensic purposes and for treatment planning. In order to be objective, thorough, and expedient, we use a battery of psychological tests, customized for the client's needs. We serve individuals and organizations in the private and public sectors. Additionally, we provide expert witness testimony. Additional services include presentation at seminars for psychological services pertaining to Family Court and Law Enforcement professionals.
(803) 489-8365 View (803) 489-8365
Photo of Jill Smith - Jill Smith & Associates Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Smith & Associates Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
12 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
Jill Smith & Associates is a team of over 15 therapists with offices in Lexington and Columbia, SC. Our team can help with all stages of life including: Individual Therapy (Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Codependency, Coping Skills). Child Therapy (Behavioral Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Trauma, Autism). Family Therapy (Marital and Premarital, Coparenting, Family Conflict, Adoption, Divorce). We offer an accepting and non-judgmental environment for people who identify across the entire spectrum of gender, orientation, and attraction.
Jill Smith & Associates is a team of over 15 therapists with offices in Lexington and Columbia, SC. Our team can help with all stages of life including: Individual Therapy (Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Codependency, Coping Skills). Child Therapy (Behavioral Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Trauma, Autism). Family Therapy (Marital and Premarital, Coparenting, Family Conflict, Adoption, Divorce). We offer an accepting and non-judgmental environment for people who identify across the entire spectrum of gender, orientation, and attraction.
(803) 991-4125 View (803) 991-4125
Photo of Suzie Elofson, LPC-Associate, LPCA
Suzie Elofson
LPC-Associate, LPCA
Columbia, SC 29201
If you feel out of place, lack confidence, or suffer from constant anxiety, I may be your counselor. Maybe your values do not line up with those in your community. You could have dreams or hopes that seem more achievable or would be taken seriously elsewhere. All of this can lead to you being isolated, anxious, or frozen in place, when you would rather feel connected, joyful, driven, and hopeful. As your counselor, I want to help you find a sense of home within yourself.
If you feel out of place, lack confidence, or suffer from constant anxiety, I may be your counselor. Maybe your values do not line up with those in your community. You could have dreams or hopes that seem more achievable or would be taken seriously elsewhere. All of this can lead to you being isolated, anxious, or frozen in place, when you would rather feel connected, joyful, driven, and hopeful. As your counselor, I want to help you find a sense of home within yourself.
(803) 805-6165 View (803) 805-6165
Photo of Dr. Louis Q Carn - TRiY Counseling Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Dr Carn, LISW-CP, /(S), DHA, MSW
TRiY Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Dr Carn, LISW-CP, /(S), DHA, MSW
5 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
Life happens to all of us, but it's the ability to become stronger and 'bounce back' from life's challenges that is the test of our true strength. Can you adapt well in the face of adversity, depression, anger, anxiety, or stress? Have you experienced any behaviors, feelings, or symptoms at work, school or home that you don't quite understand? We want to work with you to earn your trust as we gain a deeper understanding of your individual needs and help discover what’s keeping you from achieving your goals in life. No matter how hard things get, we want to help you break barriers & overcome obstacles standing in your way. YoU MATTeR
Life happens to all of us, but it's the ability to become stronger and 'bounce back' from life's challenges that is the test of our true strength. Can you adapt well in the face of adversity, depression, anger, anxiety, or stress? Have you experienced any behaviors, feelings, or symptoms at work, school or home that you don't quite understand? We want to work with you to earn your trust as we gain a deeper understanding of your individual needs and help discover what’s keeping you from achieving your goals in life. No matter how hard things get, we want to help you break barriers & overcome obstacles standing in your way. YoU MATTeR
(803) 408-7182 View (803) 408-7182
Photo of Susan E Boykin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Susan E Boykin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 40 years of experience helping individuals live fulfilling lives. I completed my Bachelor's degree in Psychology at Drew University and my Master's in Social Work (MSW) at the University of South Carolina. My personal life experiences, combined with years of professional practice, have made me a seasoned therapist, deeply committed to supporting my clients in navigating life’s challenges.
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 40 years of experience helping individuals live fulfilling lives. I completed my Bachelor's degree in Psychology at Drew University and my Master's in Social Work (MSW) at the University of South Carolina. My personal life experiences, combined with years of professional practice, have made me a seasoned therapist, deeply committed to supporting my clients in navigating life’s challenges.
(803) 921-8887 View (803) 921-8887
Photo of Emily Snead, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS
Emily Snead
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
My clients often express feeling disconnected from themselves and in their relationships. They have thoughts like, "no one will understand" or "what if's" followed by fears of being judged, seen as a burden, or receiving unwanted advice. You're unsure of who to trust or how to ask for help but recognize holding onto these experiences, feelings, and thoughts alone is only becoming more painful, isolating, and heavier. If any of this sounds familiar, you've come to the right place and you're not alone.
My clients often express feeling disconnected from themselves and in their relationships. They have thoughts like, "no one will understand" or "what if's" followed by fears of being judged, seen as a burden, or receiving unwanted advice. You're unsure of who to trust or how to ask for help but recognize holding onto these experiences, feelings, and thoughts alone is only becoming more painful, isolating, and heavier. If any of this sounds familiar, you've come to the right place and you're not alone.
(803) 974-8528 View (803) 974-8528
Photo of Tamara Louise Grimm - flow. holistic psychotherapy for adults., Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
flow. holistic psychotherapy for adults.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Online Only
As a feminist therapist, I am deeply committed to fostering a therapeutic environment that embraces equality, empowerment, and inclusivity. Women residing in this area face unique challenges: pay gaps, discrimination, gender based violence, inequitable medical care, bias, gender role related expectations. It is my personal mission to help women navigate these structural hurdles in order to live fulfilling and joyous lives. In my practice, I strive to create a safe and affirming space where individuals of all genders feel valued, respected, and heard.
As a feminist therapist, I am deeply committed to fostering a therapeutic environment that embraces equality, empowerment, and inclusivity. Women residing in this area face unique challenges: pay gaps, discrimination, gender based violence, inequitable medical care, bias, gender role related expectations. It is my personal mission to help women navigate these structural hurdles in order to live fulfilling and joyous lives. In my practice, I strive to create a safe and affirming space where individuals of all genders feel valued, respected, and heard.
(803) 918-6968 View (803) 918-6968
Photo of Marvin M Bryant Sr. - MMB Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP, CBT, VSP, CPT
MMB Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP, CBT, VSP, CPT
Columbia, SC 29201
After the death of my 21-year old son due to a homicide, my life as I once knew it, changed forever. This horrific experience has taught me that you do not get over your grief, you strive to get through and beyond it. This is not like the five stages of grief one experiences during an expected loss of a loved one, you do not progress step by step, but you can get through it. Our loss may be the same but our path will be different. If you are feeling hopeless and/or overwhelmed in your grief, contact me for a consultation.
After the death of my 21-year old son due to a homicide, my life as I once knew it, changed forever. This horrific experience has taught me that you do not get over your grief, you strive to get through and beyond it. This is not like the five stages of grief one experiences during an expected loss of a loved one, you do not progress step by step, but you can get through it. Our loss may be the same but our path will be different. If you are feeling hopeless and/or overwhelmed in your grief, contact me for a consultation.
(803) 666-8716 View (803) 666-8716
Photo of Roni Caw - Roni Caw, PhD, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CSAM, Adhd-CCSP, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CSAM
Roni Caw, PhD, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CSAM, Adhd-CCSP
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CSAM
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
I am an African American male, retired military with 24 service years. I counsel for a variety of emotional and mental disorders that include ADHD, Adjustment, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, Grief, PTSD, and Trauma. I counsel children, adolescents, adults, families, Law Enforcement and Military, LGBTQI+ Affirming, marriage, and pre-marital. I have previous experience as a college psychology professor, juvenile correctional officer, residential counselor, substitute teacher, and special education community liaison.
I am an African American male, retired military with 24 service years. I counsel for a variety of emotional and mental disorders that include ADHD, Adjustment, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, Grief, PTSD, and Trauma. I counsel children, adolescents, adults, families, Law Enforcement and Military, LGBTQI+ Affirming, marriage, and pre-marital. I have previous experience as a college psychology professor, juvenile correctional officer, residential counselor, substitute teacher, and special education community liaison.
(803) 610-4072 View (803) 610-4072
Photo of Amy DeLuzio, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Amy DeLuzio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29204
Waitlist for new clients
We all reach points in life where we don’t know what the next step is and uncertainty can be terrifying. Previously, you may have used certain coping strategies or learned skills to navigate hard times, but this time around, those things may not be helping. Starting therapy can be hard, but it might just be one of the bravest decisions you ever make.
We all reach points in life where we don’t know what the next step is and uncertainty can be terrifying. Previously, you may have used certain coping strategies or learned skills to navigate hard times, but this time around, those things may not be helping. Starting therapy can be hard, but it might just be one of the bravest decisions you ever make.
(803) 893-9818 View (803) 893-9818
Photo of Laura L Truesdale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, MAC, LAC
Laura L Truesdale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, MAC, LAC
9 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29205
Not accepting new clients
For over 27 years, I’ve had the honor of walking alongside individuals as they heal from trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction. My work is rooted in compassion, connection, and the belief that true healing happens when we align with our inner truth. I help clients release what no longer serves them and step fully into the authentic, whole, and worthy version of who they were always meant to be. I specialize in supporting individuals who are ready to explore the roots of their pain. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where deep healing can take place.
For over 27 years, I’ve had the honor of walking alongside individuals as they heal from trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction. My work is rooted in compassion, connection, and the belief that true healing happens when we align with our inner truth. I help clients release what no longer serves them and step fully into the authentic, whole, and worthy version of who they were always meant to be. I specialize in supporting individuals who are ready to explore the roots of their pain. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where deep healing can take place.
(803) 489-8639 View (803) 489-8639
Photo of Angel G Johnson - Brighter Pathways, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPCS, CMC
Brighter Pathways, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPCS, CMC
Online Only
Your Journey to GREAT starts here! I see myself/Brighter Pathways as a beacon of hope for empowerment and change. Treating ages 18+ and offer a culture of diversity and am passionate & dedicated to helping you reach optimal functioning. I offer an array of services to include, but not limited to: Counseling, money coaching , and enrichment services. I operate Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from offering 9a to 2p and Saturdays from 8a - 12p.
Your Journey to GREAT starts here! I see myself/Brighter Pathways as a beacon of hope for empowerment and change. Treating ages 18+ and offer a culture of diversity and am passionate & dedicated to helping you reach optimal functioning. I offer an array of services to include, but not limited to: Counseling, money coaching , and enrichment services. I operate Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from offering 9a to 2p and Saturdays from 8a - 12p.
(803) 514-5611 x1 View (803) 514-5611 x1
Photo of Candy Ja'von Posey, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Candy Ja'von Posey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29204
Step into a space tailored just for you, where healing and growth take center stage. Life throws its curveballs, and we all carry a load from the past, but sometimes that baggage becomes a roadblock, hindering our journey to a better place. If you're feeling stuck, weighed down by the past, and yearning for positive change, you're not alone. As a Transition and Relationship Coach, I've walked alongside incredible individuals, especially women, navigating through their darkest moments. Your experiences don't scare me; they inspire me to guide you toward a place of strength and renewal.
Step into a space tailored just for you, where healing and growth take center stage. Life throws its curveballs, and we all carry a load from the past, but sometimes that baggage becomes a roadblock, hindering our journey to a better place. If you're feeling stuck, weighed down by the past, and yearning for positive change, you're not alone. As a Transition and Relationship Coach, I've walked alongside incredible individuals, especially women, navigating through their darkest moments. Your experiences don't scare me; they inspire me to guide you toward a place of strength and renewal.
(803) 805-8473 View (803) 805-8473

See more therapy options for Columbia

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Columbia, SC

1,000+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Columbia, SC who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
74% Self Esteem
72% Relationship Issues
72% Coping Skills
71% Stress
68% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% Aetna
73% BlueCross and BlueShield
69% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Columbia, SC see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Columbia?

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.