Therapists in Salem, OR
![Photo of Kristin L Rieck, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ccfc692-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Hi. I am here to offer you a chance to be seen and heard for who you really are, as well as who you want to be. Change is possible, and I look forward to working closely with you as you create the life you want. My practice is solution focused, with an emphasis on Attachment Patterns Couples Therapy. I use Contextual Therapy, which means helping relationships become more fair. I offer you a chance to talk about difficult topics in confidential sessions.
Hi. I am here to offer you a chance to be seen and heard for who you really are, as well as who you want to be. Change is possible, and I look forward to working closely with you as you create the life you want. My practice is solution focused, with an emphasis on Attachment Patterns Couples Therapy. I use Contextual Therapy, which means helping relationships become more fair. I offer you a chance to talk about difficult topics in confidential sessions.
![Photo of Scott DeLaus Kobold, QMHP, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c449fb9-c25b-47b4-8fde-cfa381df0963/2/320x400.png)
Taking New Clients! For far too long I worked in a field that gave me little to no gratification. Serendipitously, over the years I spent much of my free time volunteering for numerous causes and discovered that helping others in truly meaningful ways is the work that warms my soul. That is why I am here today offering my expertise to you. Operating from a place of compassion, my role is to gain a thorough understanding of your unique experience and how it's impacted you. I seek to identify ways I can help you alleviate harmful thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, become a happier person, and lead the life you envision.
Taking New Clients! For far too long I worked in a field that gave me little to no gratification. Serendipitously, over the years I spent much of my free time volunteering for numerous causes and discovered that helping others in truly meaningful ways is the work that warms my soul. That is why I am here today offering my expertise to you. Operating from a place of compassion, my role is to gain a thorough understanding of your unique experience and how it's impacted you. I seek to identify ways I can help you alleviate harmful thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, become a happier person, and lead the life you envision.
![Photo of Scott K Elmore, PsyD, LPC, CCSOT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8a4a565-331d-497f-96a8-8a4db41e6a2f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Scott K Elmore
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, CCSOT
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
Waitlist for new clients
Greetings neighbors. I am a person-centered therapist. I believe you are the expert of your life, and it’s my job to help you identify and overcome obstacles in life that are keeping you from experiencing true happiness and joy. I work with individuals, couples, and families who are facing difficult challenges in their lives, by being supportive, affirming, and helping identify unwanted and disruptive behaviors and thinking patterns.
Greetings neighbors. I am a person-centered therapist. I believe you are the expert of your life, and it’s my job to help you identify and overcome obstacles in life that are keeping you from experiencing true happiness and joy. I work with individuals, couples, and families who are facing difficult challenges in their lives, by being supportive, affirming, and helping identify unwanted and disruptive behaviors and thinking patterns.
![Photo of Whitney Voigt - Compassionate Comfort Counseling, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4f90bc9-7daa-41cf-8c12-5f9cbf42231c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Compassionate Comfort Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97304
Now accepting new clients for our Salem and Beaverton offices. At Compassionate Comfort Counseling, LLC we provide accessible and personalized mental health counseling and therapy, either in-person or virtually. We offer individual, couple, and family therapy sessions.
Now accepting new clients for our Salem and Beaverton offices. At Compassionate Comfort Counseling, LLC we provide accessible and personalized mental health counseling and therapy, either in-person or virtually. We offer individual, couple, and family therapy sessions.
![Photo of Megan Marshall - Night Sky Therapy, LLC, LPC, CADCI, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fca95e7-4dda-47d0-b087-ea8c51a45a33/1/320x400.jpeg)
Night Sky Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Living in a society that is both sexually repressed and obsessed with sex is confusing at the best of times. Overwhelmingly we weren’t offered the correct information about our natural urges or bodies, and we are sometimes even shamed for asking. This can often result in low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, guilt, shame, and isolation. I can help you navigate in improving your courage, mastery, and gaining healthier boundaries (that you are worthy of!) in order to be your most genuine self. We will work together at your pace in order to identify strengths and barriers and to gain confidence in making life choices and transitions.
Living in a society that is both sexually repressed and obsessed with sex is confusing at the best of times. Overwhelmingly we weren’t offered the correct information about our natural urges or bodies, and we are sometimes even shamed for asking. This can often result in low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, guilt, shame, and isolation. I can help you navigate in improving your courage, mastery, and gaining healthier boundaries (that you are worthy of!) in order to be your most genuine self. We will work together at your pace in order to identify strengths and barriers and to gain confidence in making life choices and transitions.
![Photo of Don Erickson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7cbf308-af34-44b9-8dbf-2927515a3afa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Don Erickson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301 (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients though currently only in teletherapy. My general approach is called rational eclecticism; using the most effective therapeutic approach to address each individual's unique issues. I’m increasingly focusing on trauma and toxic stress and the ways it often shows up as depression, anxiety, sadness and at times a loss of identity. Some clients beginning counseling remember feeling joy, excitement, or self-confidence that they rarely if ever feel when they first begin therapy. The people I’ve been working with have been finding this approach to somatic therapy very helpful and frequently, transformative.
I am accepting new clients though currently only in teletherapy. My general approach is called rational eclecticism; using the most effective therapeutic approach to address each individual's unique issues. I’m increasingly focusing on trauma and toxic stress and the ways it often shows up as depression, anxiety, sadness and at times a loss of identity. Some clients beginning counseling remember feeling joy, excitement, or self-confidence that they rarely if ever feel when they first begin therapy. The people I’ve been working with have been finding this approach to somatic therapy very helpful and frequently, transformative.
![Photo of Serena Hamilton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de0c4c6d-e6f0-45de-b54c-0561446085ab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Serena Hamilton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301 (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping those with significant trauma and abuse stories. You are my people! I specialize in helping clients recover from complex trauma, and the behaviors that often go with it, such as self-harming, self-medicating, and a lack of self-compassion. My approach is grounded in trauma-focused, attachment-based care. I am most concerned with the meaning you give to what you have been through, and how it has influenced you, and who you are. My goal, always, is to help you walk your own path and create an environment in which you feel empowered to reach your highest potential.
I am passionate about helping those with significant trauma and abuse stories. You are my people! I specialize in helping clients recover from complex trauma, and the behaviors that often go with it, such as self-harming, self-medicating, and a lack of self-compassion. My approach is grounded in trauma-focused, attachment-based care. I am most concerned with the meaning you give to what you have been through, and how it has influenced you, and who you are. My goal, always, is to help you walk your own path and create an environment in which you feel empowered to reach your highest potential.
![Photo of Lucas Pitman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d84f188-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lucas Pitman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
Waitlist for new clients
Are you ready to find the keys which will unlock the doors to your better life? Whether you are depressed, anxious or trying to make sense of difficult and traumatic past events, we will work together to find solutions in a safe, welcoming environment.
Are you ready to find the keys which will unlock the doors to your better life? Whether you are depressed, anxious or trying to make sense of difficult and traumatic past events, we will work together to find solutions in a safe, welcoming environment.
![Photo of Sabira Ahmed, MEd](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0664bb59-97fe-4ffd-b92e-056b76ad2449/3/320x400.png)
Are you BIPOC, LGBTQ+, or neurodivergent and feeling burnt out from existing at the margins of society? Perhaps you're a high achiever struggling with burnout, shame, people-pleasing, or difficult family dynamics. Do you want to heal invisible wounds, reclaim your mind and body, and feel connected to a community where you don’t exactly fit the mold? Together, we can uncover the root causes of your struggles, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and learn powerful tools to heal from past traumas.
Are you BIPOC, LGBTQ+, or neurodivergent and feeling burnt out from existing at the margins of society? Perhaps you're a high achiever struggling with burnout, shame, people-pleasing, or difficult family dynamics. Do you want to heal invisible wounds, reclaim your mind and body, and feel connected to a community where you don’t exactly fit the mold? Together, we can uncover the root causes of your struggles, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and learn powerful tools to heal from past traumas.
![Photo of Brad Dehler, MSW, QMHP, LMHP, CCSOT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dd65eb6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brad Dehler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, QMHP, LMHP, CCSOT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
I have worked with varied populations throughout Louisiana and Oregon; most often with male & female adults, couples, adolescents, and children ages 7-11. I have addressed multiple varied needs including sexual dysfunction, gang activity, drug use, domestic violence, PTSD, personality, mood disorders as well as relationship issues. **Education: I have a bachelor's degree (4 years) in Psychology (Oregon State University, Corvallis). I also have (one year) education (Holy Cross College, New Orleans, Louisiana) in Marriage and Family Therapy. I acquired a master's degree in Social Work (3 year master's program) from Portland State University in Portland, Oregon.
I have worked with varied populations throughout Louisiana and Oregon; most often with male & female adults, couples, adolescents, and children ages 7-11. I have addressed multiple varied needs including sexual dysfunction, gang activity, drug use, domestic violence, PTSD, personality, mood disorders as well as relationship issues. **Education: I have a bachelor's degree (4 years) in Psychology (Oregon State University, Corvallis). I also have (one year) education (Holy Cross College, New Orleans, Louisiana) in Marriage and Family Therapy. I acquired a master's degree in Social Work (3 year master's program) from Portland State University in Portland, Oregon.
![Photo of Rachel Shannon Kitterman, MSW, CSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dca70cdf-58a6-46b5-b3b3-fc92d337c6c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Shannon Kitterman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
I see the therapeutic process as a collaborative journey. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing when given a safe and supportive environment and I endeavor to hold that space and listen deeply to each person's unique story. I work from a trauma-informed lens and engage in radical acceptance when it comes to supporting people on their journey. I am passionate about providing affirming and inclusive mental healthcare and specialize in working with individuals with the following identities (or those who are self-diagnosed or exploring) : Autistic, ADHD, Transgender, Gender Expansive, Queer and/or Disabled.
I see the therapeutic process as a collaborative journey. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing when given a safe and supportive environment and I endeavor to hold that space and listen deeply to each person's unique story. I work from a trauma-informed lens and engage in radical acceptance when it comes to supporting people on their journey. I am passionate about providing affirming and inclusive mental healthcare and specialize in working with individuals with the following identities (or those who are self-diagnosed or exploring) : Autistic, ADHD, Transgender, Gender Expansive, Queer and/or Disabled.
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![Photo of Anita Ethell, LPCA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/405136a5-535c-4fab-899e-ef1e676bcad2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Looking for a therapist can be complicated, so let's keep it simple: I treat individual clients and couples. I primarily treat anxiety, depression, and trauma. I have a long history of supporting Autistic and ADHD folks - neurodivergency of all kinds is welcome here! I believe that most problems have their roots in the past, have the opportunity to be changed in the present, and can provide us the key for a hopeful future. If you are looking for a quiet and accepting place that can help you create thoughtful and sustainable changes, my office is a great place to be.
Looking for a therapist can be complicated, so let's keep it simple: I treat individual clients and couples. I primarily treat anxiety, depression, and trauma. I have a long history of supporting Autistic and ADHD folks - neurodivergency of all kinds is welcome here! I believe that most problems have their roots in the past, have the opportunity to be changed in the present, and can provide us the key for a hopeful future. If you are looking for a quiet and accepting place that can help you create thoughtful and sustainable changes, my office is a great place to be.
![Photo of Julie Harris, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33187a68-bce8-4cf6-9cfe-dee1dbd52f95/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
Not accepting new clients
Life is tough and we all need support at times with changes and difficulties. Counseling can be part of your support network. It is my goal to establish a safe environment where individuals can take time to process issues, and in the process engage their strengths, develop new ways of coping and receive fresh insight. I utilize both cognitive-behavioral therapy and DBT concepts. I am trained in EMDR, a specialized trauma technique. I am also a board approved clinical supervisor.
Life is tough and we all need support at times with changes and difficulties. Counseling can be part of your support network. It is my goal to establish a safe environment where individuals can take time to process issues, and in the process engage their strengths, develop new ways of coping and receive fresh insight. I utilize both cognitive-behavioral therapy and DBT concepts. I am trained in EMDR, a specialized trauma technique. I am also a board approved clinical supervisor.
![Photo of Sandra Stephen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a076371b-15ee-4da8-a6b9-91dab0e33dac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra Stephen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302
Waitlist for new clients
I offer family and individual counseling for all ages. Maybe you are tired of things being the same cycle that doesn't work, Maybe you are tired of the old way of doing life, or want better relationships with family or friends. Perhaps you're struggling with anxiety and depression, grief and loss, or you have other relationships or lifestyle concerns. It is my goal to support you in realizing and living your best self. I strive to provide and continuously improve on ways to support equity and social justice, non-violence, and strengths based, trauma informed care.
I offer family and individual counseling for all ages. Maybe you are tired of things being the same cycle that doesn't work, Maybe you are tired of the old way of doing life, or want better relationships with family or friends. Perhaps you're struggling with anxiety and depression, grief and loss, or you have other relationships or lifestyle concerns. It is my goal to support you in realizing and living your best self. I strive to provide and continuously improve on ways to support equity and social justice, non-violence, and strengths based, trauma informed care.
![Photo of Bri Botsch, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b800899-9d23-401c-b8f3-01a13400d192/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach to counseling invites individuals into a warm, nonjudgmental space where they can explore challenges in their lives. I aspire to offer a safe space for individuals to be vulnerable and their authentic selves by practicing empathy, compassion, and support. I believe that individuals are able to make transformative steps in their life when they are motivated to change and offered a healthy and supportive environment to open up in. My client focus is on women with sexual trauma, relationship issues, and intimacy and sexual struggles. I work with adolescents 14y and up, adults, and couples.
My approach to counseling invites individuals into a warm, nonjudgmental space where they can explore challenges in their lives. I aspire to offer a safe space for individuals to be vulnerable and their authentic selves by practicing empathy, compassion, and support. I believe that individuals are able to make transformative steps in their life when they are motivated to change and offered a healthy and supportive environment to open up in. My client focus is on women with sexual trauma, relationship issues, and intimacy and sexual struggles. I work with adolescents 14y and up, adults, and couples.
![Photo of Chelsea Scott, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca9d7ea-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Many of us reach a point in our life where our ways of dealing with issues are no longer working and we need new skills to create the changes we want. I believe that we have the capacity within us to overcome difficult challenges, heal from painful life experiences and achieve our most valued personal goals. Working with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, My therapeutic approach is to help you face your challenges with insight, warmth and humor. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
Many of us reach a point in our life where our ways of dealing with issues are no longer working and we need new skills to create the changes we want. I believe that we have the capacity within us to overcome difficult challenges, heal from painful life experiences and achieve our most valued personal goals. Working with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, My therapeutic approach is to help you face your challenges with insight, warmth and humor. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
![Photo of Erika Avgi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2aa8db2-fc9f-4a68-9d01-5dc50535f93c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erika Avgi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97305 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Currently FULL. Waitlist available. My style of therapy is very individualized. I acknowledged the broad range of backgrounds and experiences that shape who and why we are the way we are. My goal is to create an environment that fosters safety and collaboration, encouraging you to be able to show up as your authentic self (and at times figuring out who that is). Working together you can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the neuroscience behind your thoughts/reactions/areas of difficulty, awareness into your mind, body, and soul, and take away tools, strategies, and techniques for addressing the areas of change you desire.
Currently FULL. Waitlist available. My style of therapy is very individualized. I acknowledged the broad range of backgrounds and experiences that shape who and why we are the way we are. My goal is to create an environment that fosters safety and collaboration, encouraging you to be able to show up as your authentic self (and at times figuring out who that is). Working together you can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the neuroscience behind your thoughts/reactions/areas of difficulty, awareness into your mind, body, and soul, and take away tools, strategies, and techniques for addressing the areas of change you desire.
![Photo of Debbie Williams, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/957afcfe-8939-4353-8bd9-be856c32d4c8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Debbie Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
Not accepting new clients
I work with children and adults experiencing worry, anxiety, grief, depression, shame, low self-esteem, and other stressors, challenges, or changes in life. We are not meant to deal with the difficulties of life alone. Therapy provides a place to feel heard and understood. It can offer a fresh perspective and help you find solutions. I believe that when a person feels safe, accepted, and emotionally supported that healing can begin. My style is warm, gentle, encouraging, and collaborative. I focus on connecting with you, exploring your story, and identifying strengths and opportunities.
I work with children and adults experiencing worry, anxiety, grief, depression, shame, low self-esteem, and other stressors, challenges, or changes in life. We are not meant to deal with the difficulties of life alone. Therapy provides a place to feel heard and understood. It can offer a fresh perspective and help you find solutions. I believe that when a person feels safe, accepted, and emotionally supported that healing can begin. My style is warm, gentle, encouraging, and collaborative. I focus on connecting with you, exploring your story, and identifying strengths and opportunities.
![Photo of Cara Still, QMHP, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c43728b0-f689-4ce1-b5e2-538e173f0d19/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cara Still
Pre-Licensed Professional, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! My name is Cara, and I am a dedicated, Qualified Mental Health Professional with over a decade of experience in the field of mental health. Throughout my career I have honed my expertise in addressing various mental health challenges across all age groups, specializing in areas such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, self-confidence, and more. I am also a certified health coach and life coach, currently working on obtaining my LPC license. My passion lies in empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve their best mental and emotional well-being.
Hello! My name is Cara, and I am a dedicated, Qualified Mental Health Professional with over a decade of experience in the field of mental health. Throughout my career I have honed my expertise in addressing various mental health challenges across all age groups, specializing in areas such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, self-confidence, and more. I am also a certified health coach and life coach, currently working on obtaining my LPC license. My passion lies in empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve their best mental and emotional well-being.
![Photo of Kelly Haider, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06c3207c-3ca6-4ef6-a4a2-c85d0e256173/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in developing a supportive and collaborative environment where my clients feel empowered, this allows them to move beyond their limitations and discover greater life satisfaction.
I believe in developing a supportive and collaborative environment where my clients feel empowered, this allows them to move beyond their limitations and discover greater life satisfaction.
See more therapy options for Salem
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Salem, OR
500+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Salem, OR who prioritize treating:
90% | Anxiety |
85% | Depression |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Relationship Issues |
70% | Stress |
69% | Self Esteem |
65% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
61% | PacificSource |
48% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
48% | Providence |
How Therapists in Salem, OR see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
21% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Salem?
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.