Therapists in Yorktown, Arlington, VA

Photo of Marion Scotchmer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marion Scotchmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207
Marion “Mimi” Scotchmer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, LICSW) with over 16 years of experience working in behavioral health. Mimi supports clients who are experiencing a wide range of concerns including mental distress, anxiety, depression, grief, major life transitions, and relationship challenges.
Marion “Mimi” Scotchmer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, LICSW) with over 16 years of experience working in behavioral health. Mimi supports clients who are experiencing a wide range of concerns including mental distress, anxiety, depression, grief, major life transitions, and relationship challenges.
(571) 487-8017 View (571) 487-8017
Patricia Collins
Counselor, MA, MS, RDN, LPC
Verified Verified
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207
Thank you for visiting! I create a space of safety and security so you can explore what is blocking your ability to enjoy and embrace your life. We work together to create or recreate new perspectives. If you are in a state of depression or anxiety or reliving past traumas, we can discover methods unique to your needs that help you move out of fear. Our goal is to help you reconnect with your best self, to be centered in self, feel empowered to make the best choice for your wellbeing.
Thank you for visiting! I create a space of safety and security so you can explore what is blocking your ability to enjoy and embrace your life. We work together to create or recreate new perspectives. If you are in a state of depression or anxiety or reliving past traumas, we can discover methods unique to your needs that help you move out of fear. Our goal is to help you reconnect with your best self, to be centered in self, feel empowered to make the best choice for your wellbeing.
(571) 200-1266 View (571) 200-1266
Photo of Grace Stichter, MA, ATR-P, Pre-Licensed Professional
Grace Stichter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207
Is your child or teen struggling and you are looking for way to support them? Are you feeling overwhelmed, unsure during a time of transition or change? Maybe you are a parent struggling to know what the best treatment options are. I am passionate about cultivating a safe and inclusive space for kids and teens to express themselves and to provide parents the opportunity to gain insight and feel empowered. Through art, play and sandtray therapy, as well as counseling, kids and teens engage in a creative and effective therapy process. In our work together, kids, teens and their families experience insight, growth and positive change.
Is your child or teen struggling and you are looking for way to support them? Are you feeling overwhelmed, unsure during a time of transition or change? Maybe you are a parent struggling to know what the best treatment options are. I am passionate about cultivating a safe and inclusive space for kids and teens to express themselves and to provide parents the opportunity to gain insight and feel empowered. Through art, play and sandtray therapy, as well as counseling, kids and teens engage in a creative and effective therapy process. In our work together, kids, teens and their families experience insight, growth and positive change.
(703) 936-6472 View (703) 936-6472
Photo of Startasha Dillard, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Startasha Dillard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207  (Online Only)
Startasha Dillard is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and the District of Columbia. She has 16 years of experience in the behavioral health field. She has worked with individuals with both mental health and substance use disorders. She has worked with adults seeking help with addiction, anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, anger, and relationship issues. She creates a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to share, and she always maintains an open ear, flexibility, and awareness necessary to meet the unique needs of the individual.
Startasha Dillard is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and the District of Columbia. She has 16 years of experience in the behavioral health field. She has worked with individuals with both mental health and substance use disorders. She has worked with adults seeking help with addiction, anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, anger, and relationship issues. She creates a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to share, and she always maintains an open ear, flexibility, and awareness necessary to meet the unique needs of the individual.
(571) 548-3179 View (571) 548-3179
Photo of Holly Willard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Willard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207
We are broken within relationships, and it's in relationships that we can also heal. If you want to feel happier in your marriage or with your partner but feel stuck fighting and disconnected, I invite you to come explore a new way to love yourself and each other. We all yearn to be seen, heard and understood. This often manifests itself in defensiveness and arguing with the people we care about most. My goal is to gently guide you and your partner to more friendship, empathy and love so you can experience the joy of deep connection. I work with couples and individuals. I look forward to hearing from you!
We are broken within relationships, and it's in relationships that we can also heal. If you want to feel happier in your marriage or with your partner but feel stuck fighting and disconnected, I invite you to come explore a new way to love yourself and each other. We all yearn to be seen, heard and understood. This often manifests itself in defensiveness and arguing with the people we care about most. My goal is to gently guide you and your partner to more friendship, empathy and love so you can experience the joy of deep connection. I work with couples and individuals. I look forward to hearing from you!
(571) 200-2412 View (571) 200-2412
Photo of Chantel Bishop, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chantel Bishop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 5 years of experience working with families, children (ages 5-17), couples, and elderly clients. I specialize in assisting those struggling with depressive disorders, self-injurious behavior, anxiety and bipolar disorders, anger and stress management, grief, PTSD, substance abuse, and trauma. I develop a relaxed, nonjudgmental environment where a healthy therapeutic relationship can grow. I use cultural sensitivity, ethics, and evidence-based practices with a client-centered approach. Treatment is customized to address individual needs, and no topic is off-limits.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 5 years of experience working with families, children (ages 5-17), couples, and elderly clients. I specialize in assisting those struggling with depressive disorders, self-injurious behavior, anxiety and bipolar disorders, anger and stress management, grief, PTSD, substance abuse, and trauma. I develop a relaxed, nonjudgmental environment where a healthy therapeutic relationship can grow. I use cultural sensitivity, ethics, and evidence-based practices with a client-centered approach. Treatment is customized to address individual needs, and no topic is off-limits.
(571) 520-4185 View (571) 520-4185
Photo of Jillian Pelzer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jillian Pelzer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207
Hi! My name is Jillian Pelzer. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for the state of VA. I take a person-centered approach to therapy, meaning you are the expert of your own life. I am simply here to help you organize your thoughts and judgment so that you can make positive decisions for your life. I have expertise in counseling clients with depression, parenting problems, suicidal ideation, adjustment disorders, substance use problems, and more. I am super laid back! This will be a no-stress, no-pressure situation. The time is yours to use how you'd like. I am always flexible with my clients.
Hi! My name is Jillian Pelzer. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for the state of VA. I take a person-centered approach to therapy, meaning you are the expert of your own life. I am simply here to help you organize your thoughts and judgment so that you can make positive decisions for your life. I have expertise in counseling clients with depression, parenting problems, suicidal ideation, adjustment disorders, substance use problems, and more. I am super laid back! This will be a no-stress, no-pressure situation. The time is yours to use how you'd like. I am always flexible with my clients.
(757) 378-0997 View (757) 378-0997
Photo of Kristen Johnson, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207
Waitlist for new clients
Life has stresses. How we cope, how we manage and how we use them to strive for the next best thing matters. Maybe you are anxious or feeling down. Maybe you and your partner are arguing more or feeling disconnected or maybe you’re beginning to feel the effects of being sandwiched between caregiving for your aging parents and taking care of your own family. It’s all hard. Finding new strategies to manage and getting new knowledge can be transformative. Together we will make a plan that helps you take meaningful action towards a more fulfilling life.
Life has stresses. How we cope, how we manage and how we use them to strive for the next best thing matters. Maybe you are anxious or feeling down. Maybe you and your partner are arguing more or feeling disconnected or maybe you’re beginning to feel the effects of being sandwiched between caregiving for your aging parents and taking care of your own family. It’s all hard. Finding new strategies to manage and getting new knowledge can be transformative. Together we will make a plan that helps you take meaningful action towards a more fulfilling life.
(571) 470-5780 View (571) 470-5780
Photo of Kirsten Ashey, ATR, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kirsten Ashey
Pre-Licensed Professional, ATR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207
I am a Registered Art Therapist (ATR) and Resident in Counseling, working towards becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor. I earned in MA in Art Therapy from The George Washington University and my BA in Psychology from Georgia State University. I have spent the past several years working with students in the public schools, specializing in anxiety, depression, ADHD, neurodiversity, sensory processing concerns and supporting individuals on the autism spectrum. I love working with youth to better understand their thoughts and feelings and believe in the power of art therapy to foster healing, transformation, and wellness.
I am a Registered Art Therapist (ATR) and Resident in Counseling, working towards becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor. I earned in MA in Art Therapy from The George Washington University and my BA in Psychology from Georgia State University. I have spent the past several years working with students in the public schools, specializing in anxiety, depression, ADHD, neurodiversity, sensory processing concerns and supporting individuals on the autism spectrum. I love working with youth to better understand their thoughts and feelings and believe in the power of art therapy to foster healing, transformation, and wellness.
(571) 487-8487 View (571) 487-8487
Photo of Cheryl Dwyer, LPC, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheryl Dwyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207
Hello!!! My name is Cheryl Dwyer. After working in the field of substance abuse & mental health counseling for over 30 years in a program setting, it feels right to explore other avenues of being a helper. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and a certified substance abuse counselor (CSAC). The thing that draws me in to counseling is the resiliency of the human spirit. It keeps me inspired. Our ability to grow, evolve, recreate and reinvent ourselves, is an exciting part of our existence. The lessons learned in the journey, is where it all happens. I consider it a privilege to to be a part of one's journey.
Hello!!! My name is Cheryl Dwyer. After working in the field of substance abuse & mental health counseling for over 30 years in a program setting, it feels right to explore other avenues of being a helper. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and a certified substance abuse counselor (CSAC). The thing that draws me in to counseling is the resiliency of the human spirit. It keeps me inspired. Our ability to grow, evolve, recreate and reinvent ourselves, is an exciting part of our existence. The lessons learned in the journey, is where it all happens. I consider it a privilege to to be a part of one's journey.
(571) 497-4918 View (571) 497-4918
Photo of Anxiety And Trauma-Teens-Young Adults Indigo Bloom Therapy Sharita Crawford, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anxiety And Trauma-Teens-Young Adults Indigo Bloom Therapy Sharita Crawford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207
You feel stuck in a cycle of trying, but never feeling good enough. This can be especially true if you've experienced trauma, leaving you with emotional wounds that make it hard to trust yourself and others. You are often worried and trying to balance school or work. Your heart is racing, and you are unable to relax; everyday situations are overwhelming. Sometimes you feel alone, even surrounded by your tribe. You might wonder if they truly understand what you're going through. Perhaps you've tried everything to change, but nothing seems to work. This constant effort can be exhausting, leaving you feeling frustrated and hopeless.
You feel stuck in a cycle of trying, but never feeling good enough. This can be especially true if you've experienced trauma, leaving you with emotional wounds that make it hard to trust yourself and others. You are often worried and trying to balance school or work. Your heart is racing, and you are unable to relax; everyday situations are overwhelming. Sometimes you feel alone, even surrounded by your tribe. You might wonder if they truly understand what you're going through. Perhaps you've tried everything to change, but nothing seems to work. This constant effort can be exhausting, leaving you feeling frustrated and hopeless.
(703) 594-4310 View (703) 594-4310
Photo of Michelle Swanson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Swanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207  (Online Only)
Michelle Swanson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. She works with adults to address issues including bipolar disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and personality disorders. She also assists with concerns such as grief and loss, relationship issues, chronic illness, and peripartum anxiety and depression. Michelle has spent time in community mental health, inpatient psychiatry, crisis intervention, disaster response, and medical social work. She has additional expertise working with veterans, seniors, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Michelle Swanson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience. She works with adults to address issues including bipolar disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and personality disorders. She also assists with concerns such as grief and loss, relationship issues, chronic illness, and peripartum anxiety and depression. Michelle has spent time in community mental health, inpatient psychiatry, crisis intervention, disaster response, and medical social work. She has additional expertise working with veterans, seniors, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
(571) 200-3084 View (571) 200-3084
Photo of Dr. Sarah Grace Helton, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah Grace Helton
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207
Not accepting new clients
My goal is to help clients live a full and meaningful life by coping well with stress. I integrate a flexible, person-centered approach with evidence-based practices. Specifically, I collaboratively and non-judgmentally work with clients to identify values and strengths. Together, we explore how to “open up” to difficult thoughts and emotions in order to create a more satisfying life. I use evidence-based therapies and skills, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET), as well as mindfulness/relaxation-based and trauma-informed approaches.
My goal is to help clients live a full and meaningful life by coping well with stress. I integrate a flexible, person-centered approach with evidence-based practices. Specifically, I collaboratively and non-judgmentally work with clients to identify values and strengths. Together, we explore how to “open up” to difficult thoughts and emotions in order to create a more satisfying life. I use evidence-based therapies and skills, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET), as well as mindfulness/relaxation-based and trauma-informed approaches.
(571) 901-2006 View (571) 901-2006
Photo of Melissa Futreal, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Futreal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207
I began helping others in 1990 as a Peer Counselor (Drug Exemption NCO) while on active duty in the Marine Corps. After earning degrees in Psychology and Social Work at UNCW/ECU, I obtained licensure to practice independently with the Virginia Board of Health Professionals in 2004. I am originally from the Hampton Roads area but have worked internationally with people from many different backgrounds. I have continued to support the military, as well as the community at large, for over 3 decades with evidence-based treatments for trauma (PTSD).
I began helping others in 1990 as a Peer Counselor (Drug Exemption NCO) while on active duty in the Marine Corps. After earning degrees in Psychology and Social Work at UNCW/ECU, I obtained licensure to practice independently with the Virginia Board of Health Professionals in 2004. I am originally from the Hampton Roads area but have worked internationally with people from many different backgrounds. I have continued to support the military, as well as the community at large, for over 3 decades with evidence-based treatments for trauma (PTSD).
(571) 506-7969 View (571) 506-7969
Photo of Kate Mullins, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate Mullins
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207
Many of us spend so much time holding it all together. It takes courage to seek out someone during your most vulnerable moments, but we all need support sometimes. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Art Therapist who sees adults and teens. I specialize in eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, self-harm and grief. I might be the right fit for you if you've ever struggled to accept yourself, and are looking for a space to feel heard and grow. I am passionate about helping clients renew their relationship with their body with a Health at Every Size approach.
Many of us spend so much time holding it all together. It takes courage to seek out someone during your most vulnerable moments, but we all need support sometimes. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Art Therapist who sees adults and teens. I specialize in eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, self-harm and grief. I might be the right fit for you if you've ever struggled to accept yourself, and are looking for a space to feel heard and grow. I am passionate about helping clients renew their relationship with their body with a Health at Every Size approach.
(571) 931-2171 View (571) 931-2171
Photo of Shauna Alonge, LCSW , JD, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shauna Alonge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , JD, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207
Life is a journey, and we sometimes lose our direction, get "stuck," and don't know where to turn. Feelings of hopelessness and shame often arise, and our coping skills fail us. Joy can fade from our lives, and some of us isolate as we question who we are and where we fit in. If we knew how to make positive changes, we would jump at the chance -- we can't just "snap out of it" as some might suggest. My approach to therapy and counseling builds on client strengths -- we all have them, and I can help you to identify them. Therapy opens doors to wellness allowing patients to not only 'get well' but also to explore life goals.
Life is a journey, and we sometimes lose our direction, get "stuck," and don't know where to turn. Feelings of hopelessness and shame often arise, and our coping skills fail us. Joy can fade from our lives, and some of us isolate as we question who we are and where we fit in. If we knew how to make positive changes, we would jump at the chance -- we can't just "snap out of it" as some might suggest. My approach to therapy and counseling builds on client strengths -- we all have them, and I can help you to identify them. Therapy opens doors to wellness allowing patients to not only 'get well' but also to explore life goals.
(571) 999-6945 View (571) 999-6945
Photo of Mary Stewart, MA, ATR-P, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207
Life can be challenging, overwhelming, and exhausting. It’s hard to find answers when you feel like everything around you is unraveling. My goal is to be a secure base while we work together to foster self-exploration, resilience, and restoration. As an art therapist, I believe that using art and metaphor can be a way to give voice to those experiences and emotions which remain unspoken. Together, we will work towards gaining comfort with uncomfortable feelings and situations, finding balance, and fostering resilience with life’s challenges.
Life can be challenging, overwhelming, and exhausting. It’s hard to find answers when you feel like everything around you is unraveling. My goal is to be a secure base while we work together to foster self-exploration, resilience, and restoration. As an art therapist, I believe that using art and metaphor can be a way to give voice to those experiences and emotions which remain unspoken. Together, we will work towards gaining comfort with uncomfortable feelings and situations, finding balance, and fostering resilience with life’s challenges.
(571) 410-2818 View (571) 410-2818
Photo of Mj Harford, LPC, NCC, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mj Harford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207  (Online Only)
Are there areas of your life that, no matter what you seem to do feel “off,” disconnected, or unfulfilled? Despite all your best efforts, do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, overburdened, and craving control? Helping clients connect with their natural ability to heal, change, and grow is the heart of my work as a counselor. Together, we create a plan and develop the skills that allow you to take action towards a more meaningful life.
Are there areas of your life that, no matter what you seem to do feel “off,” disconnected, or unfulfilled? Despite all your best efforts, do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, overburdened, and craving control? Helping clients connect with their natural ability to heal, change, and grow is the heart of my work as a counselor. Together, we create a plan and develop the skills that allow you to take action towards a more meaningful life.
(703) 832-8978 View (703) 832-8978
Photo of Nancy W Nollen, MA, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy W Nollen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207
Working with individual adults and couples in an integrative, supportive and collaborative way, I help clients gain appreciation for their strengths and an enhanced sense of self. Using a warm, interactive style based on mutual respect, the client and I identify and modify patterns that may be blocks to achieving the cllient's greatest potential. We consider early life experiences that may be contributing to the current concerns. With 25 years experience in a variety of treatment settings including hospital, EAP and private practice, I offer a safe environment for exploring and working toward goals that will lead to a fuller and more satisfying life.
Working with individual adults and couples in an integrative, supportive and collaborative way, I help clients gain appreciation for their strengths and an enhanced sense of self. Using a warm, interactive style based on mutual respect, the client and I identify and modify patterns that may be blocks to achieving the cllient's greatest potential. We consider early life experiences that may be contributing to the current concerns. With 25 years experience in a variety of treatment settings including hospital, EAP and private practice, I offer a safe environment for exploring and working toward goals that will lead to a fuller and more satisfying life.
(202) 759-8048 View (202) 759-8048
Photo of Leslie Weber, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leslie Weber
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Yorktown, Arlington, VA 22207  (Online Only)
Leslie Weber is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has 20 years of experience in the mental health field. Leslie has always been a therapist, but she hasn’t always been a counselor. Her career began as an Occupational Therapist working in many settings with young and old clients: in schools, hospitals, geriatric care centers, and lastly in a forensic mental health facility. Leslie learned so much from all her clients and mental health was involved in every interaction. It was at the core of every successful outcome. Once Leslie realized this, she transitioned her career from a therapist to a counselor.
Leslie Weber is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has 20 years of experience in the mental health field. Leslie has always been a therapist, but she hasn’t always been a counselor. Her career began as an Occupational Therapist working in many settings with young and old clients: in schools, hospitals, geriatric care centers, and lastly in a forensic mental health facility. Leslie learned so much from all her clients and mental health was involved in every interaction. It was at the core of every successful outcome. Once Leslie realized this, she transitioned her career from a therapist to a counselor.
(571) 556-9125 View (571) 556-9125

See more therapy options for Yorktown, Arlington

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Yorktown, Arlington, VA

100+

Average cost per session

$185

Therapists in Yorktown, Arlington, VA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
92% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
73% Trauma and PTSD
71% Grief
71% Self Esteem
67% Stress

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

66% BlueCross and BlueShield
60% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
55% Aetna

How Therapists in Yorktown, Arlington, VA see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Yorktown, Arlington?

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.