Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

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Photo of Daishea Poole, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Daishea Poole
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Are anxiety and stress keeping you from living your life to your fullest potential? Are you feeling stress weighing on you internally or causing you to feel exhausted and hopeless? Together we will explore ways to grow, further develop self-acceptance and unearth traumatic experiences and daily stressors that are hindering you from achieving this potential. I will be available to provide an unbiased listening ear and warm spirit as you reimagine the life you want for yourself. In this safe and accepting environment, we will develop an action plan to better manage your unique symptoms and your life.
Are anxiety and stress keeping you from living your life to your fullest potential? Are you feeling stress weighing on you internally or causing you to feel exhausted and hopeless? Together we will explore ways to grow, further develop self-acceptance and unearth traumatic experiences and daily stressors that are hindering you from achieving this potential. I will be available to provide an unbiased listening ear and warm spirit as you reimagine the life you want for yourself. In this safe and accepting environment, we will develop an action plan to better manage your unique symptoms and your life.
(818) 293-4791 View (818) 293-4791
Photo of Keri Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Keri Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90047  (Online Only)
Do you feel misunderstood, isolated, and distressed? Have you experienced trauma, discrimination, or have chronic illness and pain? These common experiences are frequently ignored, but I am here to support you. Often times, our life experiences contribute to how we react and relate in the world, which can be isolating and invalidating causing mental, physical, and emotional pain. Whether your issues present internally or externally, I am happy to work with you to unpack and restore your whole self that creates resilience, empowerment, and self-care to HEAL, GROW, & THRIVE together!
Do you feel misunderstood, isolated, and distressed? Have you experienced trauma, discrimination, or have chronic illness and pain? These common experiences are frequently ignored, but I am here to support you. Often times, our life experiences contribute to how we react and relate in the world, which can be isolating and invalidating causing mental, physical, and emotional pain. Whether your issues present internally or externally, I am happy to work with you to unpack and restore your whole self that creates resilience, empowerment, and self-care to HEAL, GROW, & THRIVE together!
(310) 943-1383 View (310) 943-1383
Photo of Lisa Dozier, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Lisa Dozier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034  (Online Only)
Whether you’re dealing with depression, PTSD, grief, relationship issues, or other concerns, I will work with you to establish realistic, manageable goals so you can move toward the life you desire. I offer both individual and couples therapy, including premarital counseling. If you’re looking to experience overall growth and well-being or as a couple, I encourage you to schedule an appointment. My hope is that as a result of our time together, you will develop a deeper understanding of the challenges you’re facing, learn the necessary tools to overcome those issues, and gain peace to walk in your God-given purpose.
Whether you’re dealing with depression, PTSD, grief, relationship issues, or other concerns, I will work with you to establish realistic, manageable goals so you can move toward the life you desire. I offer both individual and couples therapy, including premarital counseling. If you’re looking to experience overall growth and well-being or as a couple, I encourage you to schedule an appointment. My hope is that as a result of our time together, you will develop a deeper understanding of the challenges you’re facing, learn the necessary tools to overcome those issues, and gain peace to walk in your God-given purpose.
(213) 510-1455 View (213) 510-1455
Photo of Christine Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Christine Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004  (Online Only)
The decision to seek therapy can sometimes be a difficult one. However, the challenges that motivate us towards change can often become opportunities to create a deeper awareness of who we are, and who we are striving to become. I truly believe we grow in connection to others, it’s in these relationships we often learn the most about ourselves. It is hard to look at ourselves from another person’s perspective and to see ourselves in ways that we haven’t before. It can be messy work, but it can also be truly liberating and rewarding. .
The decision to seek therapy can sometimes be a difficult one. However, the challenges that motivate us towards change can often become opportunities to create a deeper awareness of who we are, and who we are striving to become. I truly believe we grow in connection to others, it’s in these relationships we often learn the most about ourselves. It is hard to look at ourselves from another person’s perspective and to see ourselves in ways that we haven’t before. It can be messy work, but it can also be truly liberating and rewarding. .
(213) 429-7881 View (213) 429-7881
Photo of Patrick Murray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Patrick Murray
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping students, creatives, and professionals gain skills and master effective techniques to manage negative emotions, destructive behaviors, and intrusive thoughts that get in the way of living a happy and fulfilling life. Do you need concrete and reliable tools to let go of negative thoughts, increase motivation, and feel confident and assertive in your daily life? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or past trauma? Since 2015 I have been working with a diverse population of children, adolescents, adults, and families find relief from symptoms, overcome obstacles, and achieve their therapeutic goals.
I specialize in helping students, creatives, and professionals gain skills and master effective techniques to manage negative emotions, destructive behaviors, and intrusive thoughts that get in the way of living a happy and fulfilling life. Do you need concrete and reliable tools to let go of negative thoughts, increase motivation, and feel confident and assertive in your daily life? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or past trauma? Since 2015 I have been working with a diverse population of children, adolescents, adults, and families find relief from symptoms, overcome obstacles, and achieve their therapeutic goals.
(818) 722-6991 View (818) 722-6991
Photo of Avery DePaso, Pre-Licensed Professional in Los Angeles, CA
Avery DePaso
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, NCC, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90056
Not accepting new clients
I seek to aid others in navigating the gray areas of life and all that encompasses. I believe that as humans, discomfort is inevitable, however suffering is not, and I hope to help clients create the safety and security within themselves to reduce suffering. I have found great joy in creating a compassionate, creative, and collaborative space to engage in this work with clients. As a naturally curious person, it is my goal to invite all the parts of you to be seen, heard, and attended to in the therapeutic space. I approach counseling from a humanistic perspective and incorporate parts work in my therapeutic style.
I seek to aid others in navigating the gray areas of life and all that encompasses. I believe that as humans, discomfort is inevitable, however suffering is not, and I hope to help clients create the safety and security within themselves to reduce suffering. I have found great joy in creating a compassionate, creative, and collaborative space to engage in this work with clients. As a naturally curious person, it is my goal to invite all the parts of you to be seen, heard, and attended to in the therapeutic space. I approach counseling from a humanistic perspective and incorporate parts work in my therapeutic style.
Photo of Sophie Offer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Sophie Offer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
My mission is to help you decrease suffering and increase life satisfaction. I am a believer in the idea that though pain is inevitable, suffering is optional. The principles I live by for creating a fulfilling life include building self-esteem, living a values-based life, and effectively navigating pain. I will support you in this through both a psychodynamic approach and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I have experience working with a variety of obstacles, including anxiety disorders, substance abuse, depressive disorders, interpersonal conflicts, and the overall challenges arising from living life on life's terms.
My mission is to help you decrease suffering and increase life satisfaction. I am a believer in the idea that though pain is inevitable, suffering is optional. The principles I live by for creating a fulfilling life include building self-esteem, living a values-based life, and effectively navigating pain. I will support you in this through both a psychodynamic approach and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I have experience working with a variety of obstacles, including anxiety disorders, substance abuse, depressive disorders, interpersonal conflicts, and the overall challenges arising from living life on life's terms.
(310) 706-2829 View (310) 706-2829
Photo of Melanie Maddox, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, CA
Melanie Maddox
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
(310) 356-9513 View (310) 356-9513
Photo of Amber Robinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Amber Robinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Are you a millennial and honestly just don’t know what’s going on? I’ve been there. Sometimes we don’t even know where to start. Sometimes therapy is about healing something specific like a breakup or a toxic relationship with a parent. But sometimes it’s just unloading and processing what’s going on, how you’re feeling and maybe how you can feel a little better. If you feel like something’s off, but you’re not really sure why or what to do, that’s totally normal. We’ll work together to uncover what’s going on, how it started and how it may be helping or hurting you.
Are you a millennial and honestly just don’t know what’s going on? I’ve been there. Sometimes we don’t even know where to start. Sometimes therapy is about healing something specific like a breakup or a toxic relationship with a parent. But sometimes it’s just unloading and processing what’s going on, how you’re feeling and maybe how you can feel a little better. If you feel like something’s off, but you’re not really sure why or what to do, that’s totally normal. We’ll work together to uncover what’s going on, how it started and how it may be helping or hurting you.
(424) 285-1753 View (424) 285-1753
Photo of Pamela Coin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Pamela Coin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
Are you having some challenges with processing feelings and thoughts? I can help with self-esteem; relationships patterns and emotional regulation. I have extensive experience in providing individual therapy to identify behavior patterns of the past and present, so to initiate change for the future. I assist clients in understanding underlying feelings and thoughts that may motivate undesirable behavior. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Psychodymanic insight and Mindfulness to teach you ways to change unhealthy automatic thought process.
Are you having some challenges with processing feelings and thoughts? I can help with self-esteem; relationships patterns and emotional regulation. I have extensive experience in providing individual therapy to identify behavior patterns of the past and present, so to initiate change for the future. I assist clients in understanding underlying feelings and thoughts that may motivate undesirable behavior. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Psychodymanic insight and Mindfulness to teach you ways to change unhealthy automatic thought process.
(323) 612-0843 View (323) 612-0843
Photo of Ann LeFevre, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Ann LeFevre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
After experiencing a tragedy, trauma, or abuse, you may have intense emotions, nightmares, and disturbing images in your mind. Perhaps you isolate or disconnect, or you keep thinking about what you should’ve done, and question why it happened. Using substances, and having increased depression, anxiety, and anger are all normal responses. Whether you've been struggling for decades, or if this is a new experience, you can regain control over your life, reconnect with others, and rebuild emotional and physical intimacy that may have been lost.
After experiencing a tragedy, trauma, or abuse, you may have intense emotions, nightmares, and disturbing images in your mind. Perhaps you isolate or disconnect, or you keep thinking about what you should’ve done, and question why it happened. Using substances, and having increased depression, anxiety, and anger are all normal responses. Whether you've been struggling for decades, or if this is a new experience, you can regain control over your life, reconnect with others, and rebuild emotional and physical intimacy that may have been lost.
(562) 573-8287 View (562) 573-8287
Photo of Lea Bishop, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Lea Bishop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004  (Online Only)
I have been practicing therapy for over 15 years helping people work through problems ranging from anxiety and depression to problems with relationships and work life balance. I try to provide each client with an environment where they feel safe and supported, to explore the parts of themselves that they are struggling with the most, hopefully to walk away with some tools and a path forward.
I have been practicing therapy for over 15 years helping people work through problems ranging from anxiety and depression to problems with relationships and work life balance. I try to provide each client with an environment where they feel safe and supported, to explore the parts of themselves that they are struggling with the most, hopefully to walk away with some tools and a path forward.
(619) 324-8339 View (619) 324-8339
Photo of Suzette Vaughan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Suzette Vaughan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Do you feel scared all of the time or are you overwhelmed with worry? Is the ongoing avoidance of fear or panic attacks taking over your life? Has it been getting harder for you to be at work, school, or driving in your car? Do you feel disconnected from other people because they just don't understand what you are going through? Well I understand what it feels like, and I can help you find your path out of the emotional suffering and isolation. You do not have to live your life being bullied by debilitating fears and anxiety.
Do you feel scared all of the time or are you overwhelmed with worry? Is the ongoing avoidance of fear or panic attacks taking over your life? Has it been getting harder for you to be at work, school, or driving in your car? Do you feel disconnected from other people because they just don't understand what you are going through? Well I understand what it feels like, and I can help you find your path out of the emotional suffering and isolation. You do not have to live your life being bullied by debilitating fears and anxiety.
(818) 639-4305 View (818) 639-4305
Photo of Thomas Mondragon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Thomas Mondragon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90029  (Online Only)
Knowing there are times in life where emotional pain, confusion or stress can bring you to a standstill, my aim is to help you untangle roadblocks that can affect your daily life, how you feel about yourself, and that might disrupt your relationships with others. Together we will find ways to navigate difficult situations and challenges to alleviate emotional distress and suffering, to cope with isolation and loneliness, and to bring hope and purpose back into your life. As a gay person of color, I honor your unique individuality as well as all diverse rich backgrounds to bring about greater empowerment and satisfaction in life.
Knowing there are times in life where emotional pain, confusion or stress can bring you to a standstill, my aim is to help you untangle roadblocks that can affect your daily life, how you feel about yourself, and that might disrupt your relationships with others. Together we will find ways to navigate difficult situations and challenges to alleviate emotional distress and suffering, to cope with isolation and loneliness, and to bring hope and purpose back into your life. As a gay person of color, I honor your unique individuality as well as all diverse rich backgrounds to bring about greater empowerment and satisfaction in life.
(310) 896-8926 View (310) 896-8926
Photo of Kimberly Redlicki, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kimberly Redlicki
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90035  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel that you have too much going on in your mind? You want to take action, but it’s hard to even get started? Are you in a transition, or having trouble coping with your stress? Making an appointment with a therapist is a courageous first step in your journey of healing and wellbeing.
Do you ever feel that you have too much going on in your mind? You want to take action, but it’s hard to even get started? Are you in a transition, or having trouble coping with your stress? Making an appointment with a therapist is a courageous first step in your journey of healing and wellbeing.
(310) 361-2636 View (310) 361-2636
Photo of Boston Child Study Center - California (LA & SF), Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Boston Child Study Center - California (LA & SF)
Psychologist, MD, PhD, MA, LCSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
We are a comprehensively trained multidisciplinary team of clinicians, psychologists, and psychiatrists who provide evidence-based treatment to children, adolescents, young adults & families. Starting with the science and research, we deliver evidence-based treatment tailored to your family's individual needs. Our early and middle childhood team specializes in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Children (DBT-C) to treat anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, disruptive behaviors, selective mutism, trauma and depression. Our adolescent and young adult programs specialize in providing DBT and DBT-Prolonged Exposure (DBT-PE), ACT and Exposure Therapy (ExRP) to treat anxiety, OCD, depression, gender dysphoria, suicidal behaviors, non-suicidal self-injury (self-harm), substance use, disordered eating, dissociative disorders, somatic disorders, autism spectrum disorder, non-verbal learning disability, as well as PTSD and Complex-PTSD. Additionally, we offer parent coaching, family therapy, and couples therapy.
We are a comprehensively trained multidisciplinary team of clinicians, psychologists, and psychiatrists who provide evidence-based treatment to children, adolescents, young adults & families. Starting with the science and research, we deliver evidence-based treatment tailored to your family's individual needs. Our early and middle childhood team specializes in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Children (DBT-C) to treat anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, disruptive behaviors, selective mutism, trauma and depression. Our adolescent and young adult programs specialize in providing DBT and DBT-Prolonged Exposure (DBT-PE), ACT and Exposure Therapy (ExRP) to treat anxiety, OCD, depression, gender dysphoria, suicidal behaviors, non-suicidal self-injury (self-harm), substance use, disordered eating, dissociative disorders, somatic disorders, autism spectrum disorder, non-verbal learning disability, as well as PTSD and Complex-PTSD. Additionally, we offer parent coaching, family therapy, and couples therapy.
(818) 210-4739 View (818) 210-4739
Photo of Summer Loria, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Summer Loria
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90035  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Summer! If you're here, you're likely considering therapy, and I want to commend you for taking this important step on your mental health journey. In my life and my therapeutic work, I value authenticity, compassion, and open-mindedness. These values are part of what creates a supportive and non-judgmental space for my clients. I also believe in the power of humor as both an effective intervention and a personal aspect of who I am. Some of the specialities I focus on are related to Life Transitions such as Grief & Loss, Perinatal Mental Health, Anxiety, Depression, and self esteem.
Hello, I'm Summer! If you're here, you're likely considering therapy, and I want to commend you for taking this important step on your mental health journey. In my life and my therapeutic work, I value authenticity, compassion, and open-mindedness. These values are part of what creates a supportive and non-judgmental space for my clients. I also believe in the power of humor as both an effective intervention and a personal aspect of who I am. Some of the specialities I focus on are related to Life Transitions such as Grief & Loss, Perinatal Mental Health, Anxiety, Depression, and self esteem.
(310) 561-1062 View (310) 561-1062
Photo of Schyna Pour, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Schyna Pour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Schyna treats patients depending on each client’s needs, she uses methods/therapeutic models including: play therapy, music, role play, and guided imagery, Cognitive-Behavioral, Humanistic/Person-centered/Holistic/Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Brief Solution-focused, Mindfulness, Trauma-focused, Family Systems, Gottman Couples. Schyna believes therapy is a healing conversation that provides clients with a safe, non-judgmental, person-centered, strengths-based and eclectic place to express their challenges, and help them to rediscover their strengths, talents and resources.
Schyna treats patients depending on each client’s needs, she uses methods/therapeutic models including: play therapy, music, role play, and guided imagery, Cognitive-Behavioral, Humanistic/Person-centered/Holistic/Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Brief Solution-focused, Mindfulness, Trauma-focused, Family Systems, Gottman Couples. Schyna believes therapy is a healing conversation that provides clients with a safe, non-judgmental, person-centered, strengths-based and eclectic place to express their challenges, and help them to rediscover their strengths, talents and resources.
(323) 649-6521 View (323) 649-6521
Photo of Marian Belgray, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Marian Belgray
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027
You are innately worthy. When you truly believe and remember that, your life falls into place. I help clients feel heard, seen, and grounded so they can experience honesty in their relationships, fulfillment in their work, and confidence in themselves. In my former life as a TV producer and comedian, I loved operating at a high level while making people laugh – no matter how dark or difficult things sometimes seemed. This quality eventually led me to become a therapist. As your therapist, I can help you optimize your work, harness your creativity, and find balance in your life; all with a healthy dose of humor and authenticity.
You are innately worthy. When you truly believe and remember that, your life falls into place. I help clients feel heard, seen, and grounded so they can experience honesty in their relationships, fulfillment in their work, and confidence in themselves. In my former life as a TV producer and comedian, I loved operating at a high level while making people laugh – no matter how dark or difficult things sometimes seemed. This quality eventually led me to become a therapist. As your therapist, I can help you optimize your work, harness your creativity, and find balance in your life; all with a healthy dose of humor and authenticity.
(855) 532-0529 View (855) 532-0529
Photo of John Kornhandler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
John Kornhandler
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90077  (Online Only)
Do you lack self esteem and feel anxious and depressed? Are you experiencing anger but having difficulty expressing it? Do you often feel overly sensitive and self conscious to the judgment of others? You no longer have to be bothered by shame and guilt . I will create a safe space, with no judgment, for you to share and understand the root cause of these feelings. I am willing to explore any area that you reveal. My goal is to assist you in alleviating depression in an effort to release you from its painful hold, rendering it powerless to control you. If you need to make changes in your life, I will be there to help you.
Do you lack self esteem and feel anxious and depressed? Are you experiencing anger but having difficulty expressing it? Do you often feel overly sensitive and self conscious to the judgment of others? You no longer have to be bothered by shame and guilt . I will create a safe space, with no judgment, for you to share and understand the root cause of these feelings. I am willing to explore any area that you reveal. My goal is to assist you in alleviating depression in an effort to release you from its painful hold, rendering it powerless to control you. If you need to make changes in your life, I will be there to help you.
(310) 340-1420 View (310) 340-1420

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

3,000+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Los Angeles, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
74% Self Esteem
72% Relationship Issues
68% Trauma and PTSD
65% Coping Skills
63% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% Aetna
69% Cigna and Evernorth
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Los Angeles, CA see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Los Angeles?

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.