Therapists in 90089
![Photo of Ginger Clark, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4eb0fe47-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Many of my clients have led very successful lives, either in school, at work, or at home. They are highly resilient, resourceful, hard working, and strong, which is why they can't explain the anxiety or depression that keeps bubbling up. They are hesitant to seek therapy because they don't want to tinker with what is working, yet they are feeling emotions that sometimes don't make sense or are hard to manage. They feel isolated because they believe they can't share these vulnerabilities with anyone else, either because they are ashamed of feeling them or because they may not be able to trust others with that information.
Many of my clients have led very successful lives, either in school, at work, or at home. They are highly resilient, resourceful, hard working, and strong, which is why they can't explain the anxiety or depression that keeps bubbling up. They are hesitant to seek therapy because they don't want to tinker with what is working, yet they are feeling emotions that sometimes don't make sense or are hard to manage. They feel isolated because they believe they can't share these vulnerabilities with anyone else, either because they are ashamed of feeling them or because they may not be able to trust others with that information.
![Photo of Alejandra Luna, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06559ccb-a1c3-4301-8c3f-71439da539e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alejandra Luna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90089 (Online Only)
As non-binary and trans folx we often find ourselves wondering "where do I belong in this world?" and "why can't I just be myself?" It seems like we've tried everything but we dont feel like we belong or we are in a safe place to live & work. We often wonder when its going to get better? When can I just live my life fully how I am? Sometimes we feel sad and it can be a very lonely place. We can even forget just how special and unique we are because we are so different and surrounded by those who just don't get it. We really want someone who can connect to us &make our experiences feel validated, reminding us that we are beautiful.
As non-binary and trans folx we often find ourselves wondering "where do I belong in this world?" and "why can't I just be myself?" It seems like we've tried everything but we dont feel like we belong or we are in a safe place to live & work. We often wonder when its going to get better? When can I just live my life fully how I am? Sometimes we feel sad and it can be a very lonely place. We can even forget just how special and unique we are because we are so different and surrounded by those who just don't get it. We really want someone who can connect to us &make our experiences feel validated, reminding us that we are beautiful.
![Photo of Usc Psychology Services Center - USC Psychology Services Center, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f82ab2a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
USC Psychology Services Center
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90089
At the USC Psychology Services Center, we currently offer both in-person and telehealth therapy and assessment supported by science. Our services are provided by doctoral students in the Department of Psychology at USC, and supervised by psychology faculty or community-based licensed psychologists. This allows us to offer you a unique, treatment team based approach. We offer services for individuals and families, across the age range from young children to older adults. We do not offer same-day or emergency/crisis services. Currently, we have immediate openings for adolescents ages 13-17 in need of assessment services.
At the USC Psychology Services Center, we currently offer both in-person and telehealth therapy and assessment supported by science. Our services are provided by doctoral students in the Department of Psychology at USC, and supervised by psychology faculty or community-based licensed psychologists. This allows us to offer you a unique, treatment team based approach. We offer services for individuals and families, across the age range from young children to older adults. We do not offer same-day or emergency/crisis services. Currently, we have immediate openings for adolescents ages 13-17 in need of assessment services.
![Photo of Weiting Tiffany Chen, EMDR, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c037cdaf-6662-45d4-aa77-713821610fdb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Weiting Tiffany Chen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, EMDR, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90089 (Online Only)
“Stress is not the enemy in our lives. Paradoxically, it is the key to growth”. Stress is inevitable. However, if we can learn how to deal with our feelings and stress, we may convert negative situations into opportunities to become better and stronger. As a therapist, I use EMDR and evidence-based therapy modalities (DBT, CBT, solution-focused, etc) to help my clients manage the stress caused by relationship issues, trauma, disordered eating/body image, anxiety, life transitions, behavioral problems, career/school stress, anger, and more.
“Stress is not the enemy in our lives. Paradoxically, it is the key to growth”. Stress is inevitable. However, if we can learn how to deal with our feelings and stress, we may convert negative situations into opportunities to become better and stronger. As a therapist, I use EMDR and evidence-based therapy modalities (DBT, CBT, solution-focused, etc) to help my clients manage the stress caused by relationship issues, trauma, disordered eating/body image, anxiety, life transitions, behavioral problems, career/school stress, anger, and more.
![Photo of Dr. Alice Phang, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5510094-ceb2-4e85-8ccb-e58a178001dc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Alice Phang
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90089 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Dr. Alice, the lead psychologist at CedarSeoul, where we are dedicated to enhancing both inner beauty and mental health. Our holistic approach harmonizes the physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual facets of well-being, helping you achieve a balanced and empowered life. Whether you seek personal growth or organizational excellence, our individualized counseling and educational seminars are tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.
Hello! I'm Dr. Alice, the lead psychologist at CedarSeoul, where we are dedicated to enhancing both inner beauty and mental health. Our holistic approach harmonizes the physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual facets of well-being, helping you achieve a balanced and empowered life. Whether you seek personal growth or organizational excellence, our individualized counseling and educational seminars are tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.
![Photo of Janis Alexa Smith, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d381168-b62a-446d-9874-9b2d540e39bf/1/320x400.png)
Janis Alexa Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90089
Congratulations on taking this first step toward becoming a healthier version of yourself and living the best life possible. Life is sometimes tough, and I understand that when trying to cope with anxiety, depression, heartbreak, and/or relationship struggles, this can feel overwhelming. In this season of life, you don’t have to be alone. I can help you with those feelings because I am a therapist who has experience in helping others with what you may be facing right now. There is hope, and you can start your new journey to real and lasting change today.
Congratulations on taking this first step toward becoming a healthier version of yourself and living the best life possible. Life is sometimes tough, and I understand that when trying to cope with anxiety, depression, heartbreak, and/or relationship struggles, this can feel overwhelming. In this season of life, you don’t have to be alone. I can help you with those feelings because I am a therapist who has experience in helping others with what you may be facing right now. There is hope, and you can start your new journey to real and lasting change today.
![Photo of Macy Ragole, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38333836-12ab-44f4-94a4-72b7cf41c45c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you dealing with a change in your life -maybe grief, a breakup, searching for a partner, or starting a new career/ college/ grad school- that affects your ability to feel authentically you? Do you feel overwhelmed by living up to other’s expectations of you? Do you wonder if your relationships could be better? Are you interested in exploring how your past is shaping your present? Now more than ever, people are uncertain about how to live authentically. Luckily, therapy can help with that. I start with a free consultation to mutually determine if I am the right therapist for you. Call or Text: 424-272-0661
Are you dealing with a change in your life -maybe grief, a breakup, searching for a partner, or starting a new career/ college/ grad school- that affects your ability to feel authentically you? Do you feel overwhelmed by living up to other’s expectations of you? Do you wonder if your relationships could be better? Are you interested in exploring how your past is shaping your present? Now more than ever, people are uncertain about how to live authentically. Luckily, therapy can help with that. I start with a free consultation to mutually determine if I am the right therapist for you. Call or Text: 424-272-0661
![Photo of Olivia Wills, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a29c1350-3804-40a4-ba0d-85caaf04b9c4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Olivia Wills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90089 (Online Only)
Sometimes we find ourselves wishing that things could be better. We may not know exactly how we want things to change or how to enact that change, but there is a part of us that hopes that things will improve. I consider my role as a therapist to be offering a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental space where we can understand your challenges and strengths in order to create positive change in your life.
Sometimes we find ourselves wishing that things could be better. We may not know exactly how we want things to change or how to enact that change, but there is a part of us that hopes that things will improve. I consider my role as a therapist to be offering a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental space where we can understand your challenges and strengths in order to create positive change in your life.
![Photo of Maryann Foster, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e445e79-6112-4f4d-8578-9cf46d6bd4ff/2/320x400.png)
I favor an eclectic, person-centered approach that focuses on each individual's needs. I will help you build a "toolbox" of skills to help you with everyday stressors. Together we will also look at the "bigger picture"—your hopes and dreams—and prepare to write the next chapter of your life. My training includes psychoanalytic Intersubjective Self Psychology, which I am passionate about as a guiding star for my practice. I am a compassionate therapist with many years of experience who will be committed to increasing your capacity for mindfulness, resiliency, improved relationships, and overall happiness and vitality.
I favor an eclectic, person-centered approach that focuses on each individual's needs. I will help you build a "toolbox" of skills to help you with everyday stressors. Together we will also look at the "bigger picture"—your hopes and dreams—and prepare to write the next chapter of your life. My training includes psychoanalytic Intersubjective Self Psychology, which I am passionate about as a guiding star for my practice. I am a compassionate therapist with many years of experience who will be committed to increasing your capacity for mindfulness, resiliency, improved relationships, and overall happiness and vitality.
![Photo of Nichole Abdallah, MS, AMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3771ef8-9c3e-41f3-9ed3-58311619329a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nichole Abdallah
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90089 (Online Only)
You're grappling with survivor's guilt intertwined with endless grief, which feels unbearably heavy. The constant doomscrolling to heartbreaking news and horrific images from the ongoing genocide leaves you feeling numb, helpless and disconnected. You feel isolated, hopeless, and overwhelmed, but you’re not sure what you need or how to find it. Your activism leaves you feeling burnt out and exhausted, but you criticize yourself for not doing enough. You long for a space where you can fully acknowledge and share your pain, and be seen and supported. You’re not alone, and together we can process this despair.
You're grappling with survivor's guilt intertwined with endless grief, which feels unbearably heavy. The constant doomscrolling to heartbreaking news and horrific images from the ongoing genocide leaves you feeling numb, helpless and disconnected. You feel isolated, hopeless, and overwhelmed, but you’re not sure what you need or how to find it. Your activism leaves you feeling burnt out and exhausted, but you criticize yourself for not doing enough. You long for a space where you can fully acknowledge and share your pain, and be seen and supported. You’re not alone, and together we can process this despair.
![Photo of Rachel Plasencia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/533edb69-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Plasencia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90089 (Online Only)
I work with highly motivated adults utilizing evidenced based therapy with a special attention to mindfulness. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space to provide support to you as we explore better ways of coping, strategies to manage stress, and improve communication. Through reflection we are able to set goals and problem solve together as we increase insight and awareness of your experience. Together we can work to find an improved life balance, satisfaction and greater sense of well-being.
I work with highly motivated adults utilizing evidenced based therapy with a special attention to mindfulness. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space to provide support to you as we explore better ways of coping, strategies to manage stress, and improve communication. Through reflection we are able to set goals and problem solve together as we increase insight and awareness of your experience. Together we can work to find an improved life balance, satisfaction and greater sense of well-being.
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![Photo of Dr. Ekta Kumar, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2e1ce94-b3b9-4a33-89cc-33e90671265f/1/320x400.jpeg)
It can be difficult to reach out for mental health support. It can be even more difficult to find a therapist who is a good fit. I recognize this difficulty, and my goal is to make the therapeutic process as supportive and affirming for you as possible. I'm passionate about working with clients from diverse and marginalized backgrounds, especially individuals from LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. I am a licensed clinical psychologist (Psy.D.), and I specialize in multicultural psychology. I am trained in providing evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, mood changes, and other mental health difficulties.
It can be difficult to reach out for mental health support. It can be even more difficult to find a therapist who is a good fit. I recognize this difficulty, and my goal is to make the therapeutic process as supportive and affirming for you as possible. I'm passionate about working with clients from diverse and marginalized backgrounds, especially individuals from LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. I am a licensed clinical psychologist (Psy.D.), and I specialize in multicultural psychology. I am trained in providing evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, mood changes, and other mental health difficulties.
![Photo of Arielle Derhy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e27fe43a-0a23-4d8e-bddf-4f536f56365d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Arielle Derhy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90089 (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of anxious, self-critical women who want to be more accepting of themselves. Let's understand more about what holds you back from creating the life you want. Together, we'll transform stuck parts of yourself into inner resources of strength, remove the barriers in your relationships, gain a deeper understanding of yourself and others, explore how core pain and unmet feelings and needs have created distress in your life. and implement practices that foster a greater sense of internal harmony, acceptance, calmness, confidence, connectedness, and wisdom.
I specialize in the treatment of anxious, self-critical women who want to be more accepting of themselves. Let's understand more about what holds you back from creating the life you want. Together, we'll transform stuck parts of yourself into inner resources of strength, remove the barriers in your relationships, gain a deeper understanding of yourself and others, explore how core pain and unmet feelings and needs have created distress in your life. and implement practices that foster a greater sense of internal harmony, acceptance, calmness, confidence, connectedness, and wisdom.
![Photo of Emma Bogdanoff, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eadfce3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Emma Bogdanoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90089 (Online Only)
I believe therapy can benefit everyone who sincerely wishes to see a change in their life. Appropriate therapy can relieve feelings of distress, increase satisfaction in interpersonal relationships, create skills for managing anxiety, and help grow greater personal awareness and insight. Difficult changes have no specific design, but with help, you can learn from them, grow with them, and be better because of them.
I believe therapy can benefit everyone who sincerely wishes to see a change in their life. Appropriate therapy can relieve feelings of distress, increase satisfaction in interpersonal relationships, create skills for managing anxiety, and help grow greater personal awareness and insight. Difficult changes have no specific design, but with help, you can learn from them, grow with them, and be better because of them.
![Photo of Alison Shlomi, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae4fd8f7-b115-4dd6-88fa-567a2980f6a3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alison Shlomi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90089
Are you struggling with obsessive food thoughts, unbreakable food behaviors or body hate? Has an eating disorder or food struggle stolen your brain space, relationships, confidence and ability to function? I know how this feels. You are left physically exhausted, stuck in your self-loathing thoughts and defeated. I spent the last 10+ years specializing in working with eating disorders and supporting/educating family members because I believe no one should have to feel this way. Whether this is your first stop or you've been in treatment, I am glad you are here. One thing I know for sure, we are not meant to do this alone.
Are you struggling with obsessive food thoughts, unbreakable food behaviors or body hate? Has an eating disorder or food struggle stolen your brain space, relationships, confidence and ability to function? I know how this feels. You are left physically exhausted, stuck in your self-loathing thoughts and defeated. I spent the last 10+ years specializing in working with eating disorders and supporting/educating family members because I believe no one should have to feel this way. Whether this is your first stop or you've been in treatment, I am glad you are here. One thing I know for sure, we are not meant to do this alone.
![Photo of Judy Tam, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2458775-1948-4422-8edc-e410ddeffadd/1/320x400.png)
Judy Tam
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90089 (Online Only)
As a therapist who was born and raised in Hong Kong, I have had the opportunity to work with diverse clients of all backgrounds. I understand the unique challenges faced by children of immigrants, particularly those identifying as Asian American or emerging adults. Asian Americans often struggle with establishing a sense of belonging, internalized judgment of their thoughts, actions, and persistent feelings of inadequacy or shame. It can be challenging to exist between two or more different cultural norms, values, traditions, languages, familial obligations, social dynamics, and more.
As a therapist who was born and raised in Hong Kong, I have had the opportunity to work with diverse clients of all backgrounds. I understand the unique challenges faced by children of immigrants, particularly those identifying as Asian American or emerging adults. Asian Americans often struggle with establishing a sense of belonging, internalized judgment of their thoughts, actions, and persistent feelings of inadequacy or shame. It can be challenging to exist between two or more different cultural norms, values, traditions, languages, familial obligations, social dynamics, and more.
![Photo of Amy Rodriguez-Sanders, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5df83489-bc5c-4eea-b340-b7e6f0de5304/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Rodriguez-Sanders
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90089
Hello and welcome! Seeking a therapist is an important step toward your well-being. You may be anxious, depressed, stressed, or struggling with relationships in your life and looking for a way to feel better. I specialize in working with people who identify as LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, immigrants, and children of immigrants while affirming their identities and lived experiences. As a child of immigrants myself, I understand the unique challenges and perspectives that can come with trying to reconcile one’s individual identity and culture with the dominant culture-at-large.
Hello and welcome! Seeking a therapist is an important step toward your well-being. You may be anxious, depressed, stressed, or struggling with relationships in your life and looking for a way to feel better. I specialize in working with people who identify as LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, immigrants, and children of immigrants while affirming their identities and lived experiences. As a child of immigrants myself, I understand the unique challenges and perspectives that can come with trying to reconcile one’s individual identity and culture with the dominant culture-at-large.
![Photo of Dr. Edden Agonafer, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/438e0e9e-3f82-4f24-a57c-47e9487fd0b1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Aid in Healing! My name is Dr. Edden (pronounced like Aidan) Agonafer. I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Long Beach, CA. I named my practice Aid in Healing because it aligns with my mission and understanding of healing. To provide more context, in my own healing journey and through the many years of counseling people, I've learned that healing that is done with the help of others is more powerful than healing that is done in isolation or alone. I have a decade long clinical experience working with individuals and their families and the various systems they interact with.
Welcome to Aid in Healing! My name is Dr. Edden (pronounced like Aidan) Agonafer. I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Long Beach, CA. I named my practice Aid in Healing because it aligns with my mission and understanding of healing. To provide more context, in my own healing journey and through the many years of counseling people, I've learned that healing that is done with the help of others is more powerful than healing that is done in isolation or alone. I have a decade long clinical experience working with individuals and their families and the various systems they interact with.
![Photo of Veronica Davy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5de9c9c-3175-475b-a015-8bbd5d2d1188/3/320x400.jpeg)
Veronica Davy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90089
Sometimes we encounter problems or life changes that are difficult to face, causing us to feel overwhelmed, unworthy, and isolated. We are often inundated with messages about how we ought to live our lives, dictating the way we are supposed to look, behave, and even feel. Our goals and values can feel out of reach; I aim to bring these forward by offering a supportive, collaborative, and empowering therapeutic environment.
Sometimes we encounter problems or life changes that are difficult to face, causing us to feel overwhelmed, unworthy, and isolated. We are often inundated with messages about how we ought to live our lives, dictating the way we are supposed to look, behave, and even feel. Our goals and values can feel out of reach; I aim to bring these forward by offering a supportive, collaborative, and empowering therapeutic environment.
![Photo of Brenda Cordova - Social Work Support, Inc Mental Health Counseling, MSW, ASW, APCC, AMFT, LCSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a90b9e9d-6bfe-4b37-871c-8208879ce3cf/1/320x400.png)
Social Work Support, Inc Mental Health Counseling
MSW, ASW, APCC, AMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90089 (Online Only)
Don’t let worry, stress, resentment, and negative feelings fester and root themselves in your mind, heart, and body. Learn to let go of what holds you back and start reorganizing your life. There are healthy, positive solutions to help you bounce forward. Each of our therapists offer an attentive and supportive environment for exploring your present life and current relationships and with the belief that exploring your past and present experiences helps you move and overcome the heavy obstacles that may be holding you back and standing in the way of you and your future goals.
Don’t let worry, stress, resentment, and negative feelings fester and root themselves in your mind, heart, and body. Learn to let go of what holds you back and start reorganizing your life. There are healthy, positive solutions to help you bounce forward. Each of our therapists offer an attentive and supportive environment for exploring your present life and current relationships and with the belief that exploring your past and present experiences helps you move and overcome the heavy obstacles that may be holding you back and standing in the way of you and your future goals.
See more therapy options for 90089
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in 90089
20+
Average cost per session
$175
Therapists in 90089 who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
89% | Relationship Issues |
85% | Depression |
85% | Self Esteem |
81% | Stress |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Aetna |
50% | Cigna and Evernorth |
38% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in 90089 see their clients
55% | Online Only | |
45% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
89% | Female | |
8% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in 90089?
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.