Therapists in Costa Mesa, CA
![Photo of Jay Gattis, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d0494e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been very effective in helping people find relief from anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as improving the quality of their life and relationships. I provide a thorough assessment followed by a collaboratively developed treatment plan to effectively address your individual situation. My Goal is to treat you as a whole person - biological, psychological, relational and spiritual. Often talk therapy alone will not be as effective as it could be when combined with appropriate adjunctive treatment(s) and I will refer you to the appropriate specialist(s) or resources when needed.
I have been very effective in helping people find relief from anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as improving the quality of their life and relationships. I provide a thorough assessment followed by a collaboratively developed treatment plan to effectively address your individual situation. My Goal is to treat you as a whole person - biological, psychological, relational and spiritual. Often talk therapy alone will not be as effective as it could be when combined with appropriate adjunctive treatment(s) and I will refer you to the appropriate specialist(s) or resources when needed.
![Photo of Shahrzad Azarafza, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c237ac76-5b78-4024-a31c-f469ee84d1e2/1/320x400.png)
Shahrzad Azarafza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
An "ideal" patient working with one of our clinicians at Full Circle Wellness Collective is someone who is motivated to improve their quality of life and end unnecessary suffering. Someone who is willing go through temporary emotional pain in order to help end their long-term or permanent state of suffering. After all, some of the most rewarding things in life require determination, patience and hard work.
An "ideal" patient working with one of our clinicians at Full Circle Wellness Collective is someone who is motivated to improve their quality of life and end unnecessary suffering. Someone who is willing go through temporary emotional pain in order to help end their long-term or permanent state of suffering. After all, some of the most rewarding things in life require determination, patience and hard work.
![Photo of Leslie Fernandez, MS, AMFT, YTT200, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bc155df-7ff0-47d7-9804-30d990300eb9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leslie Fernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, YTT200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I believe that everyone has an innate desire to heal, whose potential can be unlocked with the right conditions of safety and non-judgmental support. If we can slow down enough to notice what needs our attention, each of us can heal ourselves. I view therapy as a weekly, collaborative ritual in which clients can reconnect with their intuitive abilities and reach their highest potentials. Integrating tools from mindfulness-based practices, somatic experiencing, and trauma-informed psychotherapy. I offer a holistic approach in which we function collectively to uncover your inherent wisdom and reclaim total authenticity.
I believe that everyone has an innate desire to heal, whose potential can be unlocked with the right conditions of safety and non-judgmental support. If we can slow down enough to notice what needs our attention, each of us can heal ourselves. I view therapy as a weekly, collaborative ritual in which clients can reconnect with their intuitive abilities and reach their highest potentials. Integrating tools from mindfulness-based practices, somatic experiencing, and trauma-informed psychotherapy. I offer a holistic approach in which we function collectively to uncover your inherent wisdom and reclaim total authenticity.
![Photo of Marlene Cuevas, Marlene, Cuevas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d7042d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marlene Cuevas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Marlene, Cuevas, LCSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I am a bilingual (Spanish and English) licensed clinical social worker who is passionate about helping individuals cope with emotional life challenges, work through them, set goals and implement new strategies to help you move forward. I offer a safe place where the diversity of emotions and experiences can be explored with compassion. Throughout my career, I have worked with children, teens, adults, and families. I have focused on many areas including emotional distress, eating disorders, sleep hygiene, autism, infertility, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, stress, crisis intervention, substance misuse, and health and wellness.
I am a bilingual (Spanish and English) licensed clinical social worker who is passionate about helping individuals cope with emotional life challenges, work through them, set goals and implement new strategies to help you move forward. I offer a safe place where the diversity of emotions and experiences can be explored with compassion. Throughout my career, I have worked with children, teens, adults, and families. I have focused on many areas including emotional distress, eating disorders, sleep hygiene, autism, infertility, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, stress, crisis intervention, substance misuse, and health and wellness.
![Photo of Gina Ramshaw, MA, MS, BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dde6ebf-51f2-43de-9131-9fbf6fb18a3c/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a parent, you may be feeling overwhelmed and hopeless on how to best help your struggling child in school. You may wonder if you are doing everything that you can for your child. Understanding your child’s behavior and how it is impacting their learning in the classroom can be frustrating and complicated for you to navigate on your own. You believe that if you knew “WHY” your child was behaving in such a manner then they would be able to be happy and successful in school and, in turn, would be able to learn.
As a parent, you may be feeling overwhelmed and hopeless on how to best help your struggling child in school. You may wonder if you are doing everything that you can for your child. Understanding your child’s behavior and how it is impacting their learning in the classroom can be frustrating and complicated for you to navigate on your own. You believe that if you knew “WHY” your child was behaving in such a manner then they would be able to be happy and successful in school and, in turn, would be able to learn.
![Photo of Ylena Shayne, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/850945d6-b029-4e5d-87a5-0f21b862c327/2/320x400.jpeg)
My primary goal as a therapist is to foster a safe, supportive, accepting and also challenging space that encourages personal growth and healing for each of my clients. To achieve this, I use an integrative treatment approach, grounded in psychodynamic and interpersonal theories, that encourages mindful self-reflection on internal experiences, authentic expression of affect and a benign curiosity about our personal experiences. My experience and training have made me comfortable working with a range of mental health concerns and a diversity of cultural backgrounds.
My primary goal as a therapist is to foster a safe, supportive, accepting and also challenging space that encourages personal growth and healing for each of my clients. To achieve this, I use an integrative treatment approach, grounded in psychodynamic and interpersonal theories, that encourages mindful self-reflection on internal experiences, authentic expression of affect and a benign curiosity about our personal experiences. My experience and training have made me comfortable working with a range of mental health concerns and a diversity of cultural backgrounds.
![Photo of Fanshen Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b65db70f-1988-4e54-904f-95dcba6cc472/2/320x400.jpeg)
Fanshen Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626 (Online Only)
My style of therapy is warm, authentic, direct, and down-to-earth. My approach in sessions is to assist clients to connect with the strengths and resilience they may or may not be aware they have and support them to utilize those to make changes in their lives that are consistent with their goals in therapy. I work collaboratively with clients to be sure that therapy feels meaningful and beneficial. I believe strongly that each human has the capacity to heal, no matter how large or small their challenge appears.
My style of therapy is warm, authentic, direct, and down-to-earth. My approach in sessions is to assist clients to connect with the strengths and resilience they may or may not be aware they have and support them to utilize those to make changes in their lives that are consistent with their goals in therapy. I work collaboratively with clients to be sure that therapy feels meaningful and beneficial. I believe strongly that each human has the capacity to heal, no matter how large or small their challenge appears.
![Photo of Katy Bird, MA, AMFT, APCC, Rev, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/262e1bbc-93fe-4d8f-aeeb-8943d16ff6b9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katy Bird
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC, Rev
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92627 (Online Only)
Are you yearning to forge a genuine connection with your true self and confront life's hurdles with authenticity? Hey there, I'm Katy Bird, and I specialize in Ketamine-Assisted Therapy (KAP) sessions tailored to guide you toward discovering and awakening your inner compassionate warrior. Together, we'll embark on a journey into the depths of your soul, unveiling the innate strengths and wisdom that lie within. By shifting perspectives, we trade control illusions for genuine empowerment, fostering profound transformation. As a result, you'll feel more alive, energized, present, grounded, and connected.
Are you yearning to forge a genuine connection with your true self and confront life's hurdles with authenticity? Hey there, I'm Katy Bird, and I specialize in Ketamine-Assisted Therapy (KAP) sessions tailored to guide you toward discovering and awakening your inner compassionate warrior. Together, we'll embark on a journey into the depths of your soul, unveiling the innate strengths and wisdom that lie within. By shifting perspectives, we trade control illusions for genuine empowerment, fostering profound transformation. As a result, you'll feel more alive, energized, present, grounded, and connected.
![Photo of Evelyn E. Escobar, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6dbadef0-a07b-4ddb-8645-4575bdf1da78/1/320x400.jpeg)
You have taken a very important step in seeking therapy. Your mental health is perhaps the most important investment you can make. If you are feeling depressed or anxious, please know that you are not alone. Therapy is a powerful tool that can help you not only overcome your current distress but can also lead you to reach levels that you never imagined possible.
You have taken a very important step in seeking therapy. Your mental health is perhaps the most important investment you can make. If you are feeling depressed or anxious, please know that you are not alone. Therapy is a powerful tool that can help you not only overcome your current distress but can also lead you to reach levels that you never imagined possible.
![Photo of Emma Mericle, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/608f1b54-f2e7-4304-9810-39e04606a9be/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emma Mericle
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Emma believes in a person-centered, collaborative approach to promote personal discovery and growth. Utilizing various modalities, she helps clients create a custom and unique treatment plan that fits their needs. Her warmth and empathy creates a supportive and safe space where clients of all ages can process and heal.
Emma believes in a person-centered, collaborative approach to promote personal discovery and growth. Utilizing various modalities, she helps clients create a custom and unique treatment plan that fits their needs. Her warmth and empathy creates a supportive and safe space where clients of all ages can process and heal.
![Photo of Nicole D Widman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6af1697c-a442-406d-9f9b-b55d456f34aa/1/320x400.png)
I specialize in integrating therapy with the Christian faith, guiding clients in learning how to hear from God and experience inner healing through the leading of the Holy Spirit. I am deeply devoted to counseling women that long to burn with holy passion for Jesus but cannot break free from the darkness of their past.
I specialize in integrating therapy with the Christian faith, guiding clients in learning how to hear from God and experience inner healing through the leading of the Holy Spirit. I am deeply devoted to counseling women that long to burn with holy passion for Jesus but cannot break free from the darkness of their past.
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![Photo of Lynn Talmon, LMFT, LAADC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6972841f-e336-4bdf-9aac-4365968583ce/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lynn Talmon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626 (Online Only)
Online zoom sessions, New Client Openings, No Waitlist. Individual therapy only. If life isn't how it should be, & what used to give you joy doesn't anymore, if it's exhausting always struggling, then therapy can be a powerful way to change things now that you're ready. It is an HONOR to listen & be present as you discover your truth, joy, satisfaction, peace & confidence! I treat individuals only. If you're overwhelmed, anxious, down or stuck, talking to someone helps. Specialties: depression, anxiety, coping w/ climate change & environmental grief, sober/recovery, autistic spectrum, ending a relationship, codependency, LGBTQ2+
Online zoom sessions, New Client Openings, No Waitlist. Individual therapy only. If life isn't how it should be, & what used to give you joy doesn't anymore, if it's exhausting always struggling, then therapy can be a powerful way to change things now that you're ready. It is an HONOR to listen & be present as you discover your truth, joy, satisfaction, peace & confidence! I treat individuals only. If you're overwhelmed, anxious, down or stuck, talking to someone helps. Specialties: depression, anxiety, coping w/ climate change & environmental grief, sober/recovery, autistic spectrum, ending a relationship, codependency, LGBTQ2+
![Photo of Kelly Zander, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c38ff41-05a0-49f9-ae09-4bc78de00201/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Zander
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Hi! I’m Kelly, a dedicated & compassionate licensed therapist with over 5 years of experience supporting individuals on their journey to emotional well-being & personal growth. Based in Orange County, I am passionate about empowering women to overcome life's challenges and achieve their fullest potential. With a deep understanding of the unique pressures & experiences we face today, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts & feelings openly. My approach is holistic & client-centered, combining evidence-based practices with a warm, empathetic touch to tailor each session to your individual needs.
Hi! I’m Kelly, a dedicated & compassionate licensed therapist with over 5 years of experience supporting individuals on their journey to emotional well-being & personal growth. Based in Orange County, I am passionate about empowering women to overcome life's challenges and achieve their fullest potential. With a deep understanding of the unique pressures & experiences we face today, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts & feelings openly. My approach is holistic & client-centered, combining evidence-based practices with a warm, empathetic touch to tailor each session to your individual needs.
![Photo of Marlyn Tavira, LCSW, APHSW-C, OSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67bf4b5f-35a2-41b6-a700-34ef574d3065/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marlyn Tavira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, APHSW-C, OSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Hello! My name is Marlyn (Marleen), licensed clinical social worker. I'm happy you are here! I know how hard it can be to make the decision to seek out therapy, let alone how taunting the process of finding the correct provider may be.
Hello! My name is Marlyn (Marleen), licensed clinical social worker. I'm happy you are here! I know how hard it can be to make the decision to seek out therapy, let alone how taunting the process of finding the correct provider may be.
![Photo of Melody Stone, LMFT, ACHT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e99abec-3c00-4fb2-8413-4bf858bfd7c5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melody Stone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ACHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92627 (Online Only)
As an LMFT, I have been practicing for over 18-years and traditionally from a psychodynamic approach, however, I have transitioned to a multifaceted approach -incorporating traditional therapy with EMDR, Somatic experiencing, Performance Psychology, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy & Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy (HCH). This integrated approach is a deeper process of psychotherapy and is achieved through a relaxed state of consciousness which embraces the concept of self-determination and the belief that every client contains, deep within their own subconscious mind, the key to their own individual health and healing.
As an LMFT, I have been practicing for over 18-years and traditionally from a psychodynamic approach, however, I have transitioned to a multifaceted approach -incorporating traditional therapy with EMDR, Somatic experiencing, Performance Psychology, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy & Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy (HCH). This integrated approach is a deeper process of psychotherapy and is achieved through a relaxed state of consciousness which embraces the concept of self-determination and the belief that every client contains, deep within their own subconscious mind, the key to their own individual health and healing.
![Photo of Ana Guzman, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27f00628-c14a-4d22-85ce-c5df5e3ef4bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ana Guzman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626 (Online Only)
Are you in search of a dedicated Psychotherapist specializing in Adult and Youth Mental Health? Look no further! If you're ready to transform your life, let me guide you on your journey to lifelong success. Whether it's in your relationships, career, parenting, youth, social life, marriage, coping with grief and loss, or managing depression or other acute mental health challenges, I'm here to support you every step of the way. My expertise lies in Trauma, Depression and Anxiety. I offer services in both English and Spanish to cater to your needs.
Are you in search of a dedicated Psychotherapist specializing in Adult and Youth Mental Health? Look no further! If you're ready to transform your life, let me guide you on your journey to lifelong success. Whether it's in your relationships, career, parenting, youth, social life, marriage, coping with grief and loss, or managing depression or other acute mental health challenges, I'm here to support you every step of the way. My expertise lies in Trauma, Depression and Anxiety. I offer services in both English and Spanish to cater to your needs.
![Photo of Kellie Whittaker, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d8c1a7d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kellie Whittaker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
The act of coming to therapy is a brave one, and you should commend yourself for doing it – you are taking proactive steps to create the life you want. I view therapy as an opportunity for you to evaluate the stories you and others tell about who you are, identify the storylines that are not serving you, and construct new narratives that focus on your strengths which can help you take a more active stance in your life. This process is simple but powerful, and I believe deeply that it can help all of us isolate and move past the problems that have worked their way into our lives, helping us to reclaim our power.
The act of coming to therapy is a brave one, and you should commend yourself for doing it – you are taking proactive steps to create the life you want. I view therapy as an opportunity for you to evaluate the stories you and others tell about who you are, identify the storylines that are not serving you, and construct new narratives that focus on your strengths which can help you take a more active stance in your life. This process is simple but powerful, and I believe deeply that it can help all of us isolate and move past the problems that have worked their way into our lives, helping us to reclaim our power.
![Photo of Nadine Abdellatif, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5de406e2-1a3f-4ee3-8c9d-bda11cf2e8df/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nadine Abdellatif
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
As a narrative therapist, I believe that you are the expert in your life and have a choice in how you tell your story. I work from a non-judgmental approach and come to therapy with empathy and compassion to create a space where we can map your story. I aim to create a comfortable space and a solid therapeutic relationship to identify your values to guide how you want to be in the face of whatever problem may be presenting itself. Whether it be grief, loss, stress, or depression we can work through these problems to identify your preferred way of being.
As a narrative therapist, I believe that you are the expert in your life and have a choice in how you tell your story. I work from a non-judgmental approach and come to therapy with empathy and compassion to create a space where we can map your story. I aim to create a comfortable space and a solid therapeutic relationship to identify your values to guide how you want to be in the face of whatever problem may be presenting itself. Whether it be grief, loss, stress, or depression we can work through these problems to identify your preferred way of being.
![Photo of Ann-Margaret Mercier, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7920daf-6d5d-475c-8573-cf5cc6e5e40e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ann-Margaret Mercier
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Research suggests that it often takes a decade or more for those with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) to find appropriate treatment. As a therapist with lived experience of this complex and often misunderstood condition, I know firsthand both how painful and debilitating OCD can be as well as the limitations of traditional talk therapy in the treatment of obsessions and compulsions. My goal is to empower clients by providing them with the evidence-based tools and emotional support they need not only to successfully manage symptoms of OCD and anxiety disorders, but to thrive beyond the illusion of absolute certainty.
Research suggests that it often takes a decade or more for those with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) to find appropriate treatment. As a therapist with lived experience of this complex and often misunderstood condition, I know firsthand both how painful and debilitating OCD can be as well as the limitations of traditional talk therapy in the treatment of obsessions and compulsions. My goal is to empower clients by providing them with the evidence-based tools and emotional support they need not only to successfully manage symptoms of OCD and anxiety disorders, but to thrive beyond the illusion of absolute certainty.
![Photo of Kai Lewis, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7806fe60-6576-4db5-97d7-e66d62d15dfa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Perhaps you are brand new to therapy, or returning for better results. Maybe you are looking for a therapist that relates to the LGBTQ+ identities/experiences you have, and how those may affect other areas of your life. You're looking for a space to be authentic and explore complex parts of who you are in a safe, affirming space. You might be experiencing anxiety, depression, confusion, or other barriers to your well-being. My priority is inviting you to share who you are so we can create positive outcomes. I combine evidence-based practices with real-world application, placing your experiences at the forefront of therapy.
Perhaps you are brand new to therapy, or returning for better results. Maybe you are looking for a therapist that relates to the LGBTQ+ identities/experiences you have, and how those may affect other areas of your life. You're looking for a space to be authentic and explore complex parts of who you are in a safe, affirming space. You might be experiencing anxiety, depression, confusion, or other barriers to your well-being. My priority is inviting you to share who you are so we can create positive outcomes. I combine evidence-based practices with real-world application, placing your experiences at the forefront of therapy.
See more therapy options for Costa Mesa
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Costa Mesa, CA
600+
Average cost per session
$175
Therapists in Costa Mesa, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
80% | Relationship Issues |
74% | Self Esteem |
69% | Stress |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Grief |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
69% | Aetna |
67% | Cigna and Evernorth |
51% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Costa Mesa, CA see their clients
77% | In Person and Online | |
23% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
22% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Costa Mesa?
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
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.
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.
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.