Photo of Dr. Karla Mueller-Schrader, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Karla Mueller-Schrader
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34242  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm here to help as you take this important first step. As a dedicated therapist with over 20 years of experience, I work with individuals of all ages and possess specialized expertise in working with children, teens, and young adults. I create a safe and healing environment for all my clients through an approach rooted in acceptance to ensure that each client feels understood and supported throughout their therapeutic journey. I believe people of all ages and identities are capable of personal transformation and view my role as a partner on your journey to wholeness and health.
Welcome! I'm here to help as you take this important first step. As a dedicated therapist with over 20 years of experience, I work with individuals of all ages and possess specialized expertise in working with children, teens, and young adults. I create a safe and healing environment for all my clients through an approach rooted in acceptance to ensure that each client feels understood and supported throughout their therapeutic journey. I believe people of all ages and identities are capable of personal transformation and view my role as a partner on your journey to wholeness and health.
(623) 288-5356 View (623) 288-5356
Photo of Paul Prachar - Guardian Counseling, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Guardian Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34242
What keeps us in bondage can vary tremendously from one person to another. We know that our past plays a huge part in what keeps us in bondage to pain, thoughts that destroy us rather than move us forward, strife within ourselves and our relationships. We are here to take you through the process of healing the pain, retraining your mind, mending your relationships, and ultimately breaking the chains that keep you from being what God has created you to be.
What keeps us in bondage can vary tremendously from one person to another. We know that our past plays a huge part in what keeps us in bondage to pain, thoughts that destroy us rather than move us forward, strife within ourselves and our relationships. We are here to take you through the process of healing the pain, retraining your mind, mending your relationships, and ultimately breaking the chains that keep you from being what God has created you to be.
(941) 214-2230 View (941) 214-2230
Photo of Poppy And Geoff Spencer - Relationship Experts, LLC, MS, LPCP, MBTI, Art Therapist
Relationship Experts, LLC
Art Therapist, MS, LPCP, MBTI
Verified Verified
Siesta Key, FL 34242
As Certified Family Law Mediators and Certified Relationship Counselors, we specialize in working with people who are in a toxic or narcissistic relationship by guiding people to recognize the issues in their relationships, and address them with a step-by-step strategy. We work with clients to examine their relationship concerns, evaluate their choices, and support them as they take the next steps appropriate for them. Using our extensive knowledge and certification in mediation, and those considering divorce, we offer exact steps to take pre-mediation, and how to heal and reclaim self-love from a toxic or narcissistic relationship.
As Certified Family Law Mediators and Certified Relationship Counselors, we specialize in working with people who are in a toxic or narcissistic relationship by guiding people to recognize the issues in their relationships, and address them with a step-by-step strategy. We work with clients to examine their relationship concerns, evaluate their choices, and support them as they take the next steps appropriate for them. Using our extensive knowledge and certification in mediation, and those considering divorce, we offer exact steps to take pre-mediation, and how to heal and reclaim self-love from a toxic or narcissistic relationship.
(941) 357-7178 View (941) 357-7178
Photo of Jerold Stone, LCSW, LMFT, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jerold Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, BCD
Verified Verified
Siesta Key, FL 34242  (Online Only)
I have over thirty years of experience in treating difficult couples and challenging family cases. I completed my initial graduate school training at the renowned Brown School of Social Work at Washington University in St. Louis. I completed advanced structured sex therapy training at the Masters and Johnson Institute in St. Louis. My training is extensive, including taking a post-graduate medical school rotation in psychiatry at the University of Minnesota. In addition to treatment, I conduct Custody Evaluations, Parenting Coordination, Divorce Mediation, Expert Testimony and Infertility Evaluation and Consultation.
I have over thirty years of experience in treating difficult couples and challenging family cases. I completed my initial graduate school training at the renowned Brown School of Social Work at Washington University in St. Louis. I completed advanced structured sex therapy training at the Masters and Johnson Institute in St. Louis. My training is extensive, including taking a post-graduate medical school rotation in psychiatry at the University of Minnesota. In addition to treatment, I conduct Custody Evaluations, Parenting Coordination, Divorce Mediation, Expert Testimony and Infertility Evaluation and Consultation.
(941) 479-2968 View (941) 479-2968
Photo of Courtney Davenport, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Davenport
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Siesta Key, FL 34242
I offer psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults and couples. Issues frequently addressed include: Depression, Anxiety, Body-Image Concerns, Eating Disorders, ADHD (Children & Adults), Relationship Challenges, Adjusting to Life Transitions, Grief/Loss Issues, and Interpersonal Relationship Difficulties. I work with each client individually to determine specific areas of focus and create strategies to accomplish desired outcomes.
I offer psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults and couples. Issues frequently addressed include: Depression, Anxiety, Body-Image Concerns, Eating Disorders, ADHD (Children & Adults), Relationship Challenges, Adjusting to Life Transitions, Grief/Loss Issues, and Interpersonal Relationship Difficulties. I work with each client individually to determine specific areas of focus and create strategies to accomplish desired outcomes.
(941) 462-3987 View (941) 462-3987
Photo of Bruce A Robertson, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Bruce A Robertson
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Siesta Key, FL 34242
For 36 years I have worked as a psychotherapist to help individuals, couples and families find their way to a healthy, satisfying and happy life. I create a supportive, caring and empathetic environment to help you work through the difficulties you face. We not only talk about what you are struggling with, but we will find ways to have a deeper understanding of the patterns of behavior that have gotten in the way of you finding useful and creative solutions. I provide various forms of TeleHealth Therapy with FaceTime, Zoom or Phone sessions.
For 36 years I have worked as a psychotherapist to help individuals, couples and families find their way to a healthy, satisfying and happy life. I create a supportive, caring and empathetic environment to help you work through the difficulties you face. We not only talk about what you are struggling with, but we will find ways to have a deeper understanding of the patterns of behavior that have gotten in the way of you finding useful and creative solutions. I provide various forms of TeleHealth Therapy with FaceTime, Zoom or Phone sessions.
(941) 809-0229 View (941) 809-0229
Photo of Mary G Davenport, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary G Davenport
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Siesta Key, FL 34242
I am a PhD Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist & aasect Certified Sex Therapist. I have been a leader in the field of family therapy and sex therapy since 1974. Trained at the University of Pennsylvania, I bring a wealth of experience and a personalized approach to my private practice in Sarasota, Florida. I provide specialized support for transgender and non-binary individuals and their families. I am dedicated to creating an environment that respects and celebrates the diversity of gender identities and sexual orientation.
I am a PhD Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist & aasect Certified Sex Therapist. I have been a leader in the field of family therapy and sex therapy since 1974. Trained at the University of Pennsylvania, I bring a wealth of experience and a personalized approach to my private practice in Sarasota, Florida. I provide specialized support for transgender and non-binary individuals and their families. I am dedicated to creating an environment that respects and celebrates the diversity of gender identities and sexual orientation.
(941) 366-3134 View (941) 366-3134
Photo of Anne K Glowacki, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne K Glowacki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34242  (Online Only)
Welcome and thank you for visiting and taking the first step to personal well-being. People seek out psychotherapy for many reasons. My focus is to help identify what is most important to you in your life that you wish to strengthen and express more fully, even if you are facing difficulties right now. What may appear as obstacles at first can merely be stepping-stones to your deepest fulfillment. I welcome the opportunity to take part of that journey with you in a confidential environment committed to sensitivity and compassion with proven strategies that motivate and encourage continued success.
Welcome and thank you for visiting and taking the first step to personal well-being. People seek out psychotherapy for many reasons. My focus is to help identify what is most important to you in your life that you wish to strengthen and express more fully, even if you are facing difficulties right now. What may appear as obstacles at first can merely be stepping-stones to your deepest fulfillment. I welcome the opportunity to take part of that journey with you in a confidential environment committed to sensitivity and compassion with proven strategies that motivate and encourage continued success.
(941) 219-3481 View (941) 219-3481
Photo of Robert Bakst, LCSW, CAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert Bakst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAP
Verified Verified
Siesta Key, FL 34242  (Online Only)
I have over 30 years of experienced providing therapeutic services for clients dealing with addiction, anxiety, bereavement, depression, stress, trauma, and life transitions. The services I provide are individual, marital, and family therapy for families and adults. A positive treatment outcome will enhance your self-esteem and improve your mood by assisting you in developing the tools to deal effectively with your problems.
I have over 30 years of experienced providing therapeutic services for clients dealing with addiction, anxiety, bereavement, depression, stress, trauma, and life transitions. The services I provide are individual, marital, and family therapy for families and adults. A positive treatment outcome will enhance your self-esteem and improve your mood by assisting you in developing the tools to deal effectively with your problems.
(914) 594-5480 View (914) 594-5480
Photo of Tara M Files-Hall, PhD, Psychologist
Tara M Files-Hall
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34242
Dr. Files-Hall is committed to serving the multifaceted needs of gulf coast families. Dr. Files-Hall's mission is to provide superior, comprehensive, and integrative mental health services for children, adolescents, and their families. Dr. Files-Hall is results-oriented and works collaboratively with families to produce symptom relief and create lasting change.
Dr. Files-Hall is committed to serving the multifaceted needs of gulf coast families. Dr. Files-Hall's mission is to provide superior, comprehensive, and integrative mental health services for children, adolescents, and their families. Dr. Files-Hall is results-oriented and works collaboratively with families to produce symptom relief and create lasting change.
(941) 417-8086 View (941) 417-8086
Photo of Laura Carnevale - Laura Carnevale Therapy. , LMHC, LLC, Counselor
Laura Carnevale Therapy.
Counselor, LMHC, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34242
Not accepting new clients
I understand the pain of anxiety and depression. Often unhealthy relationships and unresolved traumas are root causes. You can feel whole, confident, creative and connected again. Together we will make sense of the past, lessen the pain of adverse experiences, identify and incorporate helpful thinking and behaving patterns, improve relationships, and reconnect with body emotions and the self so once again simple joys in daily living are felt.
I understand the pain of anxiety and depression. Often unhealthy relationships and unresolved traumas are root causes. You can feel whole, confident, creative and connected again. Together we will make sense of the past, lessen the pain of adverse experiences, identify and incorporate helpful thinking and behaving patterns, improve relationships, and reconnect with body emotions and the self so once again simple joys in daily living are felt.
(941) 845-6639 View (941) 845-6639
Photo of Kirsten Ellingsen - Kirsten Ellingsen Phd PLLC, PhD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Kirsten Ellingsen Phd PLLC
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34242
I am dedicated to enhancing the health, development, and positive functioning of children, adolescents, and young adults. I am also passionate about supporting pregnant & postpartum mothers. My goal is to provide informed, strengths-based, research supported, compassionate treatment. I work with children and parents to improve wellbeing and functioning, strengthen relationships, and build skills to better manage stress, anxiety, behavior, and emotions. Participation in therapy is collaborative with a focus on strengths, reducing challenges, and increasing effective coping strategies to allow for optimal engagement in daily life.
I am dedicated to enhancing the health, development, and positive functioning of children, adolescents, and young adults. I am also passionate about supporting pregnant & postpartum mothers. My goal is to provide informed, strengths-based, research supported, compassionate treatment. I work with children and parents to improve wellbeing and functioning, strengthen relationships, and build skills to better manage stress, anxiety, behavior, and emotions. Participation in therapy is collaborative with a focus on strengths, reducing challenges, and increasing effective coping strategies to allow for optimal engagement in daily life.
(941) 304-4187 View (941) 304-4187
Photo of Kathleen Powers, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kathleen Powers
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34242
It may not feel like it at this moment, but experiencing positive and meaningful change is possible. Maybe you want to quiet your critical inner voice. Maybe you are looking to find more joy and meaning in your life. Or perhaps you have found yourself confronted with a situation that leaves you feeling overwhelmed, stuck or uncertain. These challenges have the potential to be transformative turning points in your life.
It may not feel like it at this moment, but experiencing positive and meaningful change is possible. Maybe you want to quiet your critical inner voice. Maybe you are looking to find more joy and meaning in your life. Or perhaps you have found yourself confronted with a situation that leaves you feeling overwhelmed, stuck or uncertain. These challenges have the potential to be transformative turning points in your life.
(941) 315-5815 View (941) 315-5815
Photo of Wendy Sloan, LMHC, Counselor
Wendy Sloan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34242  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking the first steps to a healthier you. My name is Wendy and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 24 years of experience. I believe the relationship with a client should be one that is filled with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. I utilize methods such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy styles along with motivational interviewing. This approach allows for you to be empowered to solve your own problems using your own abilities. This is a goal oriented approach to problem solving that often allows you to see the change you are looking for sooner.
Congratulations on taking the first steps to a healthier you. My name is Wendy and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 24 years of experience. I believe the relationship with a client should be one that is filled with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. I utilize methods such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy styles along with motivational interviewing. This approach allows for you to be empowered to solve your own problems using your own abilities. This is a goal oriented approach to problem solving that often allows you to see the change you are looking for sooner.
(786) 933-7523 View (786) 933-7523
Photo of Armine Melkonyan, PhD, Psychologist
Armine Melkonyan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Siesta Key, FL 34242  (Online Only)
Do you have childhood trauma? Do those emotionally painful experiences affect you as an adult? Do you push intense feelings or memories away to avoid pain? Do you find yourself in relationships where your deepest needs are not met? If these questions resonate with you, know that you’re not alone. I’m passionate about working with individuals who have had complicated childhoods. I offer my warmth, curiosity, compassion and active presence in providing a safe space to access and explore deep-rooted hurtful experiences. This process can help you heal from emotional pain and improve your relationship with yourself and with others.
Do you have childhood trauma? Do those emotionally painful experiences affect you as an adult? Do you push intense feelings or memories away to avoid pain? Do you find yourself in relationships where your deepest needs are not met? If these questions resonate with you, know that you’re not alone. I’m passionate about working with individuals who have had complicated childhoods. I offer my warmth, curiosity, compassion and active presence in providing a safe space to access and explore deep-rooted hurtful experiences. This process can help you heal from emotional pain and improve your relationship with yourself and with others.
(941) 541-3866 View (941) 541-3866
Photo of Ashley Coto, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Coto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34242
Hi, I’m Ashley Coto. I’ve been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for close to a decade. I’ve spent my career working with children & adolescents as well as older adults. I am skilled in multiple modalities and able to help a variety of clients working through traumas, anxiety, depression, or emotional barriers. I am skilled in multiple modalities and able to help a variety of clients working through traumas, anxiety, depression, or emotional barriers. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered, Solution-Focused & Narrative Therapies.
Hi, I’m Ashley Coto. I’ve been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for close to a decade. I’ve spent my career working with children & adolescents as well as older adults. I am skilled in multiple modalities and able to help a variety of clients working through traumas, anxiety, depression, or emotional barriers. I am skilled in multiple modalities and able to help a variety of clients working through traumas, anxiety, depression, or emotional barriers. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered, Solution-Focused & Narrative Therapies.
(904) 605-4536 View (904) 605-4536
Photo of Jessica Barbalato, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Barbalato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Siesta Key, FL 34242  (Online Only)
My name is Jessica Barbalato and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years experience in the field. I received my Master of Social Work from Fordham University and have experience working with diverse populations in various settings. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, adjustment issues/life transitions, trauma as well as identity issues. My belief is that strong relationship between client and therapist can be the catalyst for healing, change and growth. As a therapist, I would describe myself as warm, empathetic, charismatic, funny and non-judgemental. I conduct all sessions via teletherapy.
My name is Jessica Barbalato and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years experience in the field. I received my Master of Social Work from Fordham University and have experience working with diverse populations in various settings. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, adjustment issues/life transitions, trauma as well as identity issues. My belief is that strong relationship between client and therapist can be the catalyst for healing, change and growth. As a therapist, I would describe myself as warm, empathetic, charismatic, funny and non-judgemental. I conduct all sessions via teletherapy.
(941) 205-7322 View (941) 205-7322
Photo of Michael Gaskin, MS(MFT), CPRS-V, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michael Gaskin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS(MFT), CPRS-V
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Siesta Key, FL 34242
Waitlist for new clients
I am humbly honored to provide a safe space to communicate and unpack life's complications. I offer compassionate, non-shaming, unbiased, and non-judgmental therapeutic experiences. I'm a retired military veteran who loves to work with adolescents, young adults, senior citizens, other veterans, and their families in various capacities. It is my honor to assist those affected by life, family trauma, military service, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, mental health issues, personality concerns, emotional dysregulations, grief, and substance abuse.
I am humbly honored to provide a safe space to communicate and unpack life's complications. I offer compassionate, non-shaming, unbiased, and non-judgmental therapeutic experiences. I'm a retired military veteran who loves to work with adolescents, young adults, senior citizens, other veterans, and their families in various capacities. It is my honor to assist those affected by life, family trauma, military service, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, mental health issues, personality concerns, emotional dysregulations, grief, and substance abuse.
(941) 368-3443 View (941) 368-3443
Photo of Crystal L Brooks, LCSW, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal L Brooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34242
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with those living with chronic illness and wellness needs. My own personal experience led me to this professional journey to help those facing issues concerning chronic disease, weight management, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and self-care. In addition, I have a degree in nutrition and work with clients about their relationship with food and nutrition. Many issues we face with our well-being affect our relationships as well. Our well-being affects those we live and work with. I believe in creating healthy boundaries and learning effective communication habits in order to grow, thrive, and be well.
I specialize in working with those living with chronic illness and wellness needs. My own personal experience led me to this professional journey to help those facing issues concerning chronic disease, weight management, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and self-care. In addition, I have a degree in nutrition and work with clients about their relationship with food and nutrition. Many issues we face with our well-being affect our relationships as well. Our well-being affects those we live and work with. I believe in creating healthy boundaries and learning effective communication habits in order to grow, thrive, and be well.
(941) 214-2072 View (941) 214-2072
Photo of Bridget Longnecker - Compass Counseling and Wellness Inc., MS, LMHC, EMDR TR, Counselor
Compass Counseling and Wellness Inc.
Counselor, MS, LMHC, EMDR TR
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34242  (Online Only)
Life can throw many different obstacles our way. By viewing my profile, I can see you are ready to regain control of your life and restore a positivity in every day life. The goal of counseling is not for me to fix any issue but to stand by you and guide you as you come to your own outcomes. Through our journey, I will supply you with many coping strategies to help you achieve your goals. During our sessions, I will provide the best care possible in order to ensure a safe, comfortable, and judgement free environment. I provide services to individuals, couples, and families of all ages.
Life can throw many different obstacles our way. By viewing my profile, I can see you are ready to regain control of your life and restore a positivity in every day life. The goal of counseling is not for me to fix any issue but to stand by you and guide you as you come to your own outcomes. Through our journey, I will supply you with many coping strategies to help you achieve your goals. During our sessions, I will provide the best care possible in order to ensure a safe, comfortable, and judgement free environment. I provide services to individuals, couples, and families of all ages.
(727) 263-3548 View (727) 263-3548
1

See more therapy options for 34242

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 34242

20+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in 34242 who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
79% Depression
79% Parenting
79% Coping Skills
79% Self Esteem
72% Family Conflict
69% Peer Relationships

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

64% Aetna
64% BlueCross and BlueShield
64% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 34242 see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 34242?

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.