Photo of Amy Sizemore Richardson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Sizemore Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
Are you experiencing sadness or anxiety or loneliness? Are you struggling with finding hope, joy, stability, or contentment? Reaching out to a total stranger to discuss your inner-most thoughts and emotions can feel overwhelming and scary. My goal is to help you along this journey. I am here to offer emotional support so you can develop the tools to manage life's challenges. I believe you are an expert in your own life and therefore, your strengths have enabled you to persevere through difficult times. Let's explore those strengths and find ways to expand them into all areas of your life.
Are you experiencing sadness or anxiety or loneliness? Are you struggling with finding hope, joy, stability, or contentment? Reaching out to a total stranger to discuss your inner-most thoughts and emotions can feel overwhelming and scary. My goal is to help you along this journey. I am here to offer emotional support so you can develop the tools to manage life's challenges. I believe you are an expert in your own life and therefore, your strengths have enabled you to persevere through difficult times. Let's explore those strengths and find ways to expand them into all areas of your life.
(910) 727-5382 View (910) 727-5382
Photo of Steve Van Schaick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steve Van Schaick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
Impact is my nature. It's been my desire to specialize with those clients who were dealt the most challenging of hands and don't have the time or patience for a more drawn out treatment. I take limited clients in order to be fully present with you. I've been known as a therapist for those who don't like therapy. I'm accustomed to working in areas of depressive episodes, panic and anxiety, broken family relationships, life stressors, parenting issues, abnormal psychiatric, spiritual issues, and traumatic experiences.
Impact is my nature. It's been my desire to specialize with those clients who were dealt the most challenging of hands and don't have the time or patience for a more drawn out treatment. I take limited clients in order to be fully present with you. I've been known as a therapist for those who don't like therapy. I'm accustomed to working in areas of depressive episodes, panic and anxiety, broken family relationships, life stressors, parenting issues, abnormal psychiatric, spiritual issues, and traumatic experiences.
(910) 994-4743 View (910) 994-4743
Photo of Ralph W. Fox II - Dr. Ralph Fox II, LCMHC-S, LCMHC
Dr. Ralph Fox II
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC-S, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
In a blink of an eye, life's path can derail. Anger, stress, sadness, embarrassment, inability to cope, doubting your self-worth & so much more, can have you struggling to exist. You need a place to express yourself without judgement of friends & family. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, grief, etc. in a safe, non-judgemental environment. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again! Let me guide you through life's ups & downs. Individuals & couples welcome! Fee for service provider - you file your insurance.
In a blink of an eye, life's path can derail. Anger, stress, sadness, embarrassment, inability to cope, doubting your self-worth & so much more, can have you struggling to exist. You need a place to express yourself without judgement of friends & family. Let me help empower you, stabilize, & deal with anger, sadness, anxiety, grief, etc. in a safe, non-judgemental environment. Privacy, discretion, stability & compassion are important to your life & career. I strive to enable people to smile again! Let me guide you through life's ups & downs. Individuals & couples welcome! Fee for service provider - you file your insurance.
(910) 216-4872 View (910) 216-4872
Photo of Charles Barden, MA, EL, LCMHC, Counselor
Charles Barden
Counselor, MA, EL, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with a diverse population of people. I have had a lot of success working with individuals and couples with substance use issues and addictions as well as those with process addictions such as sex/pornography, gambling, etc. Many times, these addictions are rooted in trauma of some kind. Many times, they will manifest in mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and other pervasive disorders. I want the opportunity to help you navigate through those and beat them. We all know that life is difficult but it doesn't have to be this way everyday. Let's get started on finding who we are together and living life again.
I enjoy working with a diverse population of people. I have had a lot of success working with individuals and couples with substance use issues and addictions as well as those with process addictions such as sex/pornography, gambling, etc. Many times, these addictions are rooted in trauma of some kind. Many times, they will manifest in mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and other pervasive disorders. I want the opportunity to help you navigate through those and beat them. We all know that life is difficult but it doesn't have to be this way everyday. Let's get started on finding who we are together and living life again.
(910) 386-0074 View (910) 386-0074
Photo of Briana Carr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Briana Carr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
Not accepting new clients
Life -- it presents challenges that often leave us feeling devastated, uninspired, unmotivated, and simply put, unhappy. Maneuvering through these seasons in life can result in internal conflict, unresolved pain, anxiety, depression, and unwanted coping mechanisms that are detrimental to long-term health. I specialize in working with clients and families of all ages to overcome life adversities. Our work together will emphasize the processes of healing and the restoration of inner peace. In your healing, you can alleviate undesired difficulties by resolving deep emotional pain to reach your full capacity, strength, and power again.
Life -- it presents challenges that often leave us feeling devastated, uninspired, unmotivated, and simply put, unhappy. Maneuvering through these seasons in life can result in internal conflict, unresolved pain, anxiety, depression, and unwanted coping mechanisms that are detrimental to long-term health. I specialize in working with clients and families of all ages to overcome life adversities. Our work together will emphasize the processes of healing and the restoration of inner peace. In your healing, you can alleviate undesired difficulties by resolving deep emotional pain to reach your full capacity, strength, and power again.
(910) 335-2488 View (910) 335-2488
Photo of Aimee Victoria McClellan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aimee Victoria McClellan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
Not accepting new clients
*I am not currently taking on new clients*. I have been a licensed clinician for the past 22 years. My strengths-based approach to therapy is integrated, with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It is my goal to provide a safe, respectful, and confidential environment to work through current challenges. I believe that each person is unique and possesses internal strength, skills, and talents which can be maximized in therapy. Every day I am reminded how fortunate I am to be able to witness the growth and development of the client's I serve.
*I am not currently taking on new clients*. I have been a licensed clinician for the past 22 years. My strengths-based approach to therapy is integrated, with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It is my goal to provide a safe, respectful, and confidential environment to work through current challenges. I believe that each person is unique and possesses internal strength, skills, and talents which can be maximized in therapy. Every day I am reminded how fortunate I am to be able to witness the growth and development of the client's I serve.
(910) 208-9478 View (910) 208-9478
Photo of Samantha McCall Wiggins, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha McCall Wiggins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
Is your relationship not living up to its fullest potential? Are you having trouble connecting with your partner? You’re not failing. A relationship isn’t a failure because you’re having trouble connecting. You’re just simply having a difficult time understanding one another. The truth is that we won’t always understand each other, as we each have our own distinct personalities, wants, needs, and desires. Relationships, intimate and familial, are such beautiful and powerful things, but they also come with a lot of stress. It is my ultimate goal to help you, help you and yours.
Is your relationship not living up to its fullest potential? Are you having trouble connecting with your partner? You’re not failing. A relationship isn’t a failure because you’re having trouble connecting. You’re just simply having a difficult time understanding one another. The truth is that we won’t always understand each other, as we each have our own distinct personalities, wants, needs, and desires. Relationships, intimate and familial, are such beautiful and powerful things, but they also come with a lot of stress. It is my ultimate goal to help you, help you and yours.
(919) 551-6936 View (919) 551-6936
Photo of Lorraine Forris, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorraine Forris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405  (Online Only)
For the past 25 years my interest and passion is working with adults and children, families and couples to reach their goals and make positive change in their lives. Whether you are experiencing an adjustment to a new and difficult situation or have been dealing with a more complex condition for which you need help, Ms. Forris helps define the issues and develop solutions. Ms. Forris has a wide breadth of knowledge and experience over a wide spectrum of mental health problems. She has trained, mentored and supervised many therapists in community mental health, home health and public health settings.
For the past 25 years my interest and passion is working with adults and children, families and couples to reach their goals and make positive change in their lives. Whether you are experiencing an adjustment to a new and difficult situation or have been dealing with a more complex condition for which you need help, Ms. Forris helps define the issues and develop solutions. Ms. Forris has a wide breadth of knowledge and experience over a wide spectrum of mental health problems. She has trained, mentored and supervised many therapists in community mental health, home health and public health settings.
(910) 716-4577 View (910) 716-4577
Photo of Ashley Trotter - Reclaim Counseling & Wellness, LCSW, LCAS, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Reclaim Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW, LCAS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
Our clinicians offer a wide range of specialties and provides a comprehensive array of therapeutic modalities. Our team aims to fosters a supportive environment where clients feel understood, validated, and empowered to navigate their mental health challenges with resilience and hope. We recognize that healing is multifaceted, where we meet our clients where they are and provide a safe place for healing and purpose. That recognizes the impact of connection, faith and purpose in each client's life. Our desire is to always keep those values in how we operate this practice and continue to serve our clients in our community.
Our clinicians offer a wide range of specialties and provides a comprehensive array of therapeutic modalities. Our team aims to fosters a supportive environment where clients feel understood, validated, and empowered to navigate their mental health challenges with resilience and hope. We recognize that healing is multifaceted, where we meet our clients where they are and provide a safe place for healing and purpose. That recognizes the impact of connection, faith and purpose in each client's life. Our desire is to always keep those values in how we operate this practice and continue to serve our clients in our community.
(910) 996-5352 x1 View (910) 996-5352 x1
Photo of Miranda Sharp, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miranda Sharp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My work is based on attachment theory and my primary modalities are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for individuals and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples. My clients are people for whom high stress has formed a wedge between themselves and the people they love. They want to reconnect with their emotions and reengage in their relationships but are not sure how. Stress can cause us to isolate, which then causes additional stress which increases our likelihood to isolate further in a vicious cycle that can feel endless. Don’t worry, I can help with that.
My work is based on attachment theory and my primary modalities are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for individuals and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples. My clients are people for whom high stress has formed a wedge between themselves and the people they love. They want to reconnect with their emotions and reengage in their relationships but are not sure how. Stress can cause us to isolate, which then causes additional stress which increases our likelihood to isolate further in a vicious cycle that can feel endless. Don’t worry, I can help with that.
(980) 655-4986 View (980) 655-4986
Photo of Marcia S Guimaraes, LCMHC
Marcia S Guimaraes
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
I believe everyone is unique, has an inner potential for healing and therapy is a cooperative process to reveal that potential. I use Redecision and Energy psychotherapy in a powerful treatment for changing and achieving an autonomous self. I am a Redecision Certified Therapist and a AIT Certified Practitioner. I am trilingual (English, Portuguese,Spanish) and have a special interest in cultures. In my work with multicultural families, I developed an extreme sense of respect, sensitiveness and appreciation for the distinctiveness of all my clients. I offer a nonjudgmental and safe environment in which we build our therapeutic relationship, an important element for healing.
I believe everyone is unique, has an inner potential for healing and therapy is a cooperative process to reveal that potential. I use Redecision and Energy psychotherapy in a powerful treatment for changing and achieving an autonomous self. I am a Redecision Certified Therapist and a AIT Certified Practitioner. I am trilingual (English, Portuguese,Spanish) and have a special interest in cultures. In my work with multicultural families, I developed an extreme sense of respect, sensitiveness and appreciation for the distinctiveness of all my clients. I offer a nonjudgmental and safe environment in which we build our therapeutic relationship, an important element for healing.
(910) 249-9983 View (910) 249-9983
Photo of Amanda Thomas, LCSWA, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
Are you looking for a compassionate and experienced therapist to help support you through life's challenges, regardless of your age or stage of life? Look no further. I have experience working with individuals of all ages, I am dedicated to helping clients navigate difficult life circumstances and build a strong therapeutic relationship that fosters positive change. Drawing on evidence-based therapeutic techniques, I partner with my clients to explore their unique strengths, challenges, and goals. I create a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to express themselves, process their emotions, and develop effective coping.
Are you looking for a compassionate and experienced therapist to help support you through life's challenges, regardless of your age or stage of life? Look no further. I have experience working with individuals of all ages, I am dedicated to helping clients navigate difficult life circumstances and build a strong therapeutic relationship that fosters positive change. Drawing on evidence-based therapeutic techniques, I partner with my clients to explore their unique strengths, challenges, and goals. I create a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to express themselves, process their emotions, and develop effective coping.
(910) 696-6233 View (910) 696-6233
Photo of Leah Webster - Love Thrives Therapy, MS, LCMHC
Love Thrives Therapy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405  (Online Only)
I am a teletherapist for the state of North Carolina! It is my passion to assist others in realizing their fullest potential, whether that be on an individual level, in a relationship, or in a family context. I adore working with pre-teens, teenagers, individuals, and couples on issues such as anxiety, communication, "self betterment", identity, sexuality, intimacy. phobias, depression, sexual dysfunction, and many other areas. Please email lovethrivestherapy@gmail.com for an appointment, and see more at www.lovethrivestherapy.com
I am a teletherapist for the state of North Carolina! It is my passion to assist others in realizing their fullest potential, whether that be on an individual level, in a relationship, or in a family context. I adore working with pre-teens, teenagers, individuals, and couples on issues such as anxiety, communication, "self betterment", identity, sexuality, intimacy. phobias, depression, sexual dysfunction, and many other areas. Please email lovethrivestherapy@gmail.com for an appointment, and see more at www.lovethrivestherapy.com
(828) 558-0054 View (828) 558-0054
Photo of Meredith Staley, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Staley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405  (Online Only)
Do you have big dreams for your life, but find that self-doubt sneaks in & shrinks them down? Does “I’m not good/attractive/smart/strong enough” sound all too familiar? Maybe these same doubts have crept into your relationships & led to a sense of insecurity & disconnection. We aren't born with these doubts. Cultural messages & life experiences shape the way we see ourselves & the world. If your environment growing up was not able to meet the universal need for safety, love, nurture & belonging, you may find yourself believing you're lacking in some way, it’s unsafe to trust others, or countless beliefs that keep you feeling stuck.
Do you have big dreams for your life, but find that self-doubt sneaks in & shrinks them down? Does “I’m not good/attractive/smart/strong enough” sound all too familiar? Maybe these same doubts have crept into your relationships & led to a sense of insecurity & disconnection. We aren't born with these doubts. Cultural messages & life experiences shape the way we see ourselves & the world. If your environment growing up was not able to meet the universal need for safety, love, nurture & belonging, you may find yourself believing you're lacking in some way, it’s unsafe to trust others, or countless beliefs that keep you feeling stuck.
(910) 821-3260 View (910) 821-3260
Photo of Connor Keeter, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Connor Keeter
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling to make sense out what's happening in your life? Does constant worry leave you feeling exhausted? You are not alone! I have a passion for helping people cope with big life changes and symptoms of anxiety and OCD. It is an act of self-love to prioritize your mental health and emotional wellbeing, and I would love to help you take that first-step. I believe that the strength of the client-therapist relationship is one of the most important elements of successful treatment. You will feel heard, respected, validated, receive constructive feedback, and gain greater understanding in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Are you struggling to make sense out what's happening in your life? Does constant worry leave you feeling exhausted? You are not alone! I have a passion for helping people cope with big life changes and symptoms of anxiety and OCD. It is an act of self-love to prioritize your mental health and emotional wellbeing, and I would love to help you take that first-step. I believe that the strength of the client-therapist relationship is one of the most important elements of successful treatment. You will feel heard, respected, validated, receive constructive feedback, and gain greater understanding in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
(910) 535-9379 View (910) 535-9379
Photo of Reginald Thompson Sr, LCAS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Reginald Thompson Sr
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
Not accepting new clients
Transparent, open, and honest, licensed clinical addiction therapist intrinsically driven to help individuals and families overcome the complexities associated with substance use; as known, addiction is a family disease. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for individuals to unpack, unload, vent, and share their personal journey; as well as, explore healthy ways "to find a way out of no way."
Transparent, open, and honest, licensed clinical addiction therapist intrinsically driven to help individuals and families overcome the complexities associated with substance use; as known, addiction is a family disease. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for individuals to unpack, unload, vent, and share their personal journey; as well as, explore healthy ways "to find a way out of no way."
(910) 335-2864 View (910) 335-2864
Photo of Mary Engelstatter, PhD, Psychologist
Mary Engelstatter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
Do you ever feel like you are putting on a happy face to get through the day, only to come home, emotionally drained, and just tired of faking it? Are you ready to take the next step but have spent so long feeling like a burden that speaking about your problems seems almost impossible? Starting therapy can be frightening and, for a lot of us, talking about our feelings doesn’t come easy. That's ok. (Seriously!) I want you to know that it's normal to feel nervous at first and that it is worth it to get your life back. Together, we will work towards helping you live a better life - however that may be defined for you.
Do you ever feel like you are putting on a happy face to get through the day, only to come home, emotionally drained, and just tired of faking it? Are you ready to take the next step but have spent so long feeling like a burden that speaking about your problems seems almost impossible? Starting therapy can be frightening and, for a lot of us, talking about our feelings doesn’t come easy. That's ok. (Seriously!) I want you to know that it's normal to feel nervous at first and that it is worth it to get your life back. Together, we will work towards helping you live a better life - however that may be defined for you.
(910) 519-1970 View (910) 519-1970
Photo of Haley Meyer, LCMHC, LCAS, CSI, Licensed Professional Counselor
Haley Meyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Life altering experiences can cause us to feel physically and emotionally unsafe leading us to ruminate on the past, overthink and worry about the future, and expect something bad to happen. Daily tasks can become difficult, and sometimes talking feels like it makes things worse. Imagine feeling secure, safe, and enjoying every day things without worrying about what’s next. It is possible to find a way to accept things as they are, reconnect with the people you care about, and enjoy the things that mean the most to you. Please note I currently only offer virtual sessions in evenings.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Life altering experiences can cause us to feel physically and emotionally unsafe leading us to ruminate on the past, overthink and worry about the future, and expect something bad to happen. Daily tasks can become difficult, and sometimes talking feels like it makes things worse. Imagine feeling secure, safe, and enjoying every day things without worrying about what’s next. It is possible to find a way to accept things as they are, reconnect with the people you care about, and enjoy the things that mean the most to you. Please note I currently only offer virtual sessions in evenings.
(910) 463-9841 View (910) 463-9841
Photo of Kim Bolen McGrew, MA, LPA, HSP-PA, LCAS, Psychological Associate
Kim Bolen McGrew
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, HSP-PA, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
Not accepting new clients
Through a collaborative approach, I strive to help clients achieve their personal goals while providing empathy and respect as the foundations of treatment. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a variety of emotional and behavioral concerns. My specialties include treating anxiety disorders, depression, mood instability, relationship and marital conflict, substance abuse, stress management, college issues, and life transitions (career decisions/changes, marriage, loss of relationships, retirement, etc.). I am also passionate about helping people improve their interpersonal and romantic relationships and incorporate research from the Gottman Method to teach practical communication and conflict resolution skills.
Through a collaborative approach, I strive to help clients achieve their personal goals while providing empathy and respect as the foundations of treatment. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a variety of emotional and behavioral concerns. My specialties include treating anxiety disorders, depression, mood instability, relationship and marital conflict, substance abuse, stress management, college issues, and life transitions (career decisions/changes, marriage, loss of relationships, retirement, etc.). I am also passionate about helping people improve their interpersonal and romantic relationships and incorporate research from the Gottman Method to teach practical communication and conflict resolution skills.
(910) 512-2890 View (910) 512-2890
Photo of Emeline Jones, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emeline Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! I help those who help others - parents, helping/service professionals, go-to, get-it-done individuals. These people might also be perfectionists, people-pleasers or co-dependent. Being of service to others is a wonderful thing and can be beneficial to our mental health. But, some of us simply can't tolerate the discomfort of others, feel a compulsion to solve other's problems, or feel as though our worthiness is wrapped up in what we provide to those around us. I believe that through our work together you can have a more joyful relationship with caring, free of resentment, overwhelm and self-doubt.
Accepting New Clients! I help those who help others - parents, helping/service professionals, go-to, get-it-done individuals. These people might also be perfectionists, people-pleasers or co-dependent. Being of service to others is a wonderful thing and can be beneficial to our mental health. But, some of us simply can't tolerate the discomfort of others, feel a compulsion to solve other's problems, or feel as though our worthiness is wrapped up in what we provide to those around us. I believe that through our work together you can have a more joyful relationship with caring, free of resentment, overwhelm and self-doubt.
(910) 994-5116 View (910) 994-5116
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 28405

100+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in 28405 who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
82% Self Esteem
77% Relationship Issues
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% Coping Skills
71% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
74% Aetna
50% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 28405 see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

87% Female
13% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 28405?

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.