Therapists in Surf City, NC
![Photo of Denise Strickland, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ef5d80b-0ec7-4436-b52f-1825fce80a7a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Strickland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Surf City, NC 28445 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Evolve or repeat. Therapy, by nature, can be challenging. It can appear scary, overwhelming, and anxiety-inducing; you are essentially vocalizing (to a stranger!) your challenges, weaknesses, mistakes, and insecurities. And sometimes that needs to happen to grow. My mantra over the last year has been to evolve or repeat. That’s it. Evolve or repeat. Frequently we establish and maintain patterns of thoughts and behaviors, based on past experiences and memories which are unhealthy and unproductive. I believe these patterns and cycles are the root to unhappiness and barriers to change.
Evolve or repeat. Therapy, by nature, can be challenging. It can appear scary, overwhelming, and anxiety-inducing; you are essentially vocalizing (to a stranger!) your challenges, weaknesses, mistakes, and insecurities. And sometimes that needs to happen to grow. My mantra over the last year has been to evolve or repeat. That’s it. Evolve or repeat. Frequently we establish and maintain patterns of thoughts and behaviors, based on past experiences and memories which are unhealthy and unproductive. I believe these patterns and cycles are the root to unhappiness and barriers to change.
![Photo of Lydia Elyse Shively, ATR, LCMHCA, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c33c7a3-7831-4848-bc61-d77ed211dda0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lydia Elyse Shively
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, ATR, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surf City, NC 28445
Does your busy life have you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, frustrated, or like you're not connecting to your true self anymore? My passion is to help others, especially through art. My 13 years of combined experience as an art teacher and a school counselor along with my credentials can help you in your life journey to your best self. I am most experienced with middle and high school-aged clients with my school counseling and teaching background but truly love working with all ages- children, teens, and adults! We can use art and/or talk therapy. I'll meet you at your comfort level! :)
Does your busy life have you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, frustrated, or like you're not connecting to your true self anymore? My passion is to help others, especially through art. My 13 years of combined experience as an art teacher and a school counselor along with my credentials can help you in your life journey to your best self. I am most experienced with middle and high school-aged clients with my school counseling and teaching background but truly love working with all ages- children, teens, and adults! We can use art and/or talk therapy. I'll meet you at your comfort level! :)
![Photo of Beth L. Hauser - Crown & Cloak Consulting PLLC, LCMHC, LPC, CPTT-C, APSATS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/891d9908-fb2a-4008-89f7-a73583e35d75/1/320x400.jpeg)
Crown & Cloak Consulting PLLC
Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, CPTT-C, APSATS
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Surf City, NC 28445 (Online Only)
Divorcing or considering it? Discovered your partner or spouse has been lying & cheating? Feeling despair, hopeless, and powerless? Confused, enraged, and hurt? Unbearable pain and you can hardly breathe? You are not sure what is real or not, questioning everything? Blaming yourself? Asking yourself: How did this happen? How did I not know? How did we get here? You need answers. You can’t sleep, eat, or make clear decisions. You have reached your breaking point and need someone to help you navigate the before, during, and after emotions of divorce. I can help.
Divorcing or considering it? Discovered your partner or spouse has been lying & cheating? Feeling despair, hopeless, and powerless? Confused, enraged, and hurt? Unbearable pain and you can hardly breathe? You are not sure what is real or not, questioning everything? Blaming yourself? Asking yourself: How did this happen? How did I not know? How did we get here? You need answers. You can’t sleep, eat, or make clear decisions. You have reached your breaking point and need someone to help you navigate the before, during, and after emotions of divorce. I can help.
![Photo of Megan Kovach, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cddbacea-c679-4dd2-a243-09c7b7439ad0/2/320x400.jpeg)
I want to acknowledge that it takes courage, bravery, and vulnerability to take the first step toward overcoming your challenges. I am honored to support you through this journey to healing and empowerment! I strive to provide a safe space for you so that we can work through any of your challenges together. I specialize in providing therapy in areas of perinatal mental health, trauma, grief and traumatic grief, and anxiety for children, teens, and adults using evidenced-based approaches. I believe individuals of all ages have the resilience and capability of moving forward past difficult life experiences.
I want to acknowledge that it takes courage, bravery, and vulnerability to take the first step toward overcoming your challenges. I am honored to support you through this journey to healing and empowerment! I strive to provide a safe space for you so that we can work through any of your challenges together. I specialize in providing therapy in areas of perinatal mental health, trauma, grief and traumatic grief, and anxiety for children, teens, and adults using evidenced-based approaches. I believe individuals of all ages have the resilience and capability of moving forward past difficult life experiences.
![Photo of Sheri L Lawrence, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20689b73-1ed2-441d-a886-524e8407cf7c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sheri L Lawrence
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Surf City, NC 28445 (Online Only)
As a therapist my role is to help support and guide you to think outside of the box and embrace new ideas that promote change. I believe that you should be empowered by your therapist and feel a connection to be able to make a plan that works for your situation. I have 20 years of training in many modalities, most specifically, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy and Family Systems. I also use yoga, meditation and breath work into sessions when asked and needed to promote mind/body balance.
As a therapist my role is to help support and guide you to think outside of the box and embrace new ideas that promote change. I believe that you should be empowered by your therapist and feel a connection to be able to make a plan that works for your situation. I have 20 years of training in many modalities, most specifically, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy and Family Systems. I also use yoga, meditation and breath work into sessions when asked and needed to promote mind/body balance.
![Photo of Aly Eaton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9cc016e-ade7-477f-b455-e9e64d56b961/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking to slow down in this busy world we live in? My hope is to help guide you toward the life you truly desire. Whether it be to manage anxiety, embrace imperfection, find your purpose, gain clarity, improve self-worth, or foster healthier relationships, we will work together towards your goals in life.
Are you looking to slow down in this busy world we live in? My hope is to help guide you toward the life you truly desire. Whether it be to manage anxiety, embrace imperfection, find your purpose, gain clarity, improve self-worth, or foster healthier relationships, we will work together towards your goals in life.
![Photo of Kristen Lindinger, MEd, LPC, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6226049a-c45a-425b-94a6-2652e693f3ed/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen Lindinger
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Surf City, NC 28445
Does it seem like life is sometimes a little overwhelming? That you don't always seem to have a handle on how to navigate the daily stressors and life changes? Do you struggle to make genuine connections with new people or just have nothing left in your gas tank at the end of each day to foster the relationships you do have? You aren't alone. And counseling is a great place to explore these feelings and find a new, more fulfilling path forward.
Does it seem like life is sometimes a little overwhelming? That you don't always seem to have a handle on how to navigate the daily stressors and life changes? Do you struggle to make genuine connections with new people or just have nothing left in your gas tank at the end of each day to foster the relationships you do have? You aren't alone. And counseling is a great place to explore these feelings and find a new, more fulfilling path forward.
![Photo of Linda Whitlock, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47d24cd5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Linda Whitlock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surf City, NC 28445
Waitlist for new clients
"Only in an open non judgmental space can we acknowledge what we are feeling. Only in an open space where we're not caught up in our own version of reality can we see and hear and feel who others really are, which allows us to be with them and communicate with them properly." This quote by Pema Chodron, an American Buddhist Nun expresses the atmosphere I hope to create for clients seeking counseling services from me. For more than 30 years I have attempted to provide, through a collaborative dialogue services that will improve each clients quality of life.
"Only in an open non judgmental space can we acknowledge what we are feeling. Only in an open space where we're not caught up in our own version of reality can we see and hear and feel who others really are, which allows us to be with them and communicate with them properly." This quote by Pema Chodron, an American Buddhist Nun expresses the atmosphere I hope to create for clients seeking counseling services from me. For more than 30 years I have attempted to provide, through a collaborative dialogue services that will improve each clients quality of life.
![Photo of Alicia Chinlund, LCMHC, LPA, CHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/426f6c03-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alicia Chinlund
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPA, CHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Surf City, NC 28445
Congratulations! You've finally made the important decision to seek professional support. Search no further. As an experienced and compassionate therapist, I've spent the past 35 years in successful clinical practice, building strong relationships with clients who trust me to listen respectfully and intervene effectively as we work together to resolve their problems. Skilled in diagnosis and treatment of the full range of psychiatric disorders, I also provide non-medical treatment such as relationship counseling, stress management, parent education, and skill-building across a full spectrum of everyday life concerns.
Congratulations! You've finally made the important decision to seek professional support. Search no further. As an experienced and compassionate therapist, I've spent the past 35 years in successful clinical practice, building strong relationships with clients who trust me to listen respectfully and intervene effectively as we work together to resolve their problems. Skilled in diagnosis and treatment of the full range of psychiatric disorders, I also provide non-medical treatment such as relationship counseling, stress management, parent education, and skill-building across a full spectrum of everyday life concerns.
![Photo of Patricia Ann Geel, LMFT, CCTHP, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5b4f0ae-0ed7-449b-b512-f651b1e2a1bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Ann Geel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTHP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Surf City, NC 28445 (Online Only)
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) providing telemental health therapy services in North Carolina. I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families presenting with concerns including but not limited to relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, depression, anxiety, PTSD and adjustment problems. I have extensive experience working with military couples and families as well as in assisting clients who have experienced domestic violence or childhood abuse or neglect. I hold certifications as a trauma professional and also as a clinical telemental health professional.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) providing telemental health therapy services in North Carolina. I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families presenting with concerns including but not limited to relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, depression, anxiety, PTSD and adjustment problems. I have extensive experience working with military couples and families as well as in assisting clients who have experienced domestic violence or childhood abuse or neglect. I hold certifications as a trauma professional and also as a clinical telemental health professional.
![Photo of Danielle Lamb, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c299061c-953c-4287-8db9-b10b41d0b557/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle is a University of the Cumberlands Graduate student, pursuing her master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, overwhelm, depression and relationship issues.
Danielle is a University of the Cumberlands Graduate student, pursuing her master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, overwhelm, depression and relationship issues.
15 Second Videos
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Sheri L Lawrence
Patricia Ann Geel
Marki Brooke Sulzbach
Cora Ryan
![Photo of Liza Prochnow, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0c42c6a-9541-4bb3-8903-b09bed5d01c5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Liza Prochnow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Surf City, NC 28445 (Online Only)
Are you spending your days overthinking, people pleasing, fearful of the unknown, and overwhelmed with life transitions or challenging relationships? Transitioning into adulthood can be daunting, whether you’re navigating career decisions, academic pressures, relationship changes, or personal growth. I specialize in assisting college students and young adults in finding balance and shifting from surviving to thriving. I am a firm believer that connection is at the root of all healing, and am ready to hold space for you and meet you where you are in your healing journey.
Are you spending your days overthinking, people pleasing, fearful of the unknown, and overwhelmed with life transitions or challenging relationships? Transitioning into adulthood can be daunting, whether you’re navigating career decisions, academic pressures, relationship changes, or personal growth. I specialize in assisting college students and young adults in finding balance and shifting from surviving to thriving. I am a firm believer that connection is at the root of all healing, and am ready to hold space for you and meet you where you are in your healing journey.
![Photo of Amy Riecken, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5369f069-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I’m so glad you are here! Reaching out for help can be a difficult decision whether it’s for yourself or a loved one. I commend you on your choice to work towards a healthier life. I provide an accepting and comfortable environment where you feel safe to discuss difficult topics. As a clinical social worker, I am client-focused and realize that you are the expert in your life. I want to support you in working through difficulties and enhancing your strengths as you prepare for a brighter future.
Hello, I’m so glad you are here! Reaching out for help can be a difficult decision whether it’s for yourself or a loved one. I commend you on your choice to work towards a healthier life. I provide an accepting and comfortable environment where you feel safe to discuss difficult topics. As a clinical social worker, I am client-focused and realize that you are the expert in your life. I want to support you in working through difficulties and enhancing your strengths as you prepare for a brighter future.
![Photo of Marki Brooke Sulzbach, MA, LCMHCA, BC-TMH, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f66be652-1f8c-4fc6-8dba-dd7666e05121/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marki Brooke Sulzbach
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, BC-TMH, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Surf City, NC 28445 (Online Only)
The everyday stressors of life can become overwhelming. Emotions and behaviors often are too much and it feels like what has worked before isn't working anymore. As your therapist, you and I will seek to discover attainable goals, strive after a healthier, more grounded sense of self, and work towards finding a more fulfilling and hopeful future. I would be honored to help you manage whatever life throws your way. Life is hard, but it doesn't have to be. Together, we will discover the root of the problem and face it head-on. You don't have to be alone in this anymore. Allow me (and my in-office service dog ZIGGY) to help.
The everyday stressors of life can become overwhelming. Emotions and behaviors often are too much and it feels like what has worked before isn't working anymore. As your therapist, you and I will seek to discover attainable goals, strive after a healthier, more grounded sense of self, and work towards finding a more fulfilling and hopeful future. I would be honored to help you manage whatever life throws your way. Life is hard, but it doesn't have to be. Together, we will discover the root of the problem and face it head-on. You don't have to be alone in this anymore. Allow me (and my in-office service dog ZIGGY) to help.
![Photo of Cora Ryan, PhD, HSP-P, PSYPACT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eedcb019-4b09-4fd0-b4f6-0df03c05298e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, lost, or stuck? You’re not alone. As a licensed psychologist, I am here to walk with you through the ups and downs. My approach to therapy is a good fit for clients who want to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their longstanding patterns, while also learning skills to improve symptoms right away. Whether its relationship difficulties, performance enhancement, or mental health concerns, I want to hear your unique story and support you as you gain the perspective, insight, and tools to reach your goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, lost, or stuck? You’re not alone. As a licensed psychologist, I am here to walk with you through the ups and downs. My approach to therapy is a good fit for clients who want to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their longstanding patterns, while also learning skills to improve symptoms right away. Whether its relationship difficulties, performance enhancement, or mental health concerns, I want to hear your unique story and support you as you gain the perspective, insight, and tools to reach your goals.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Emma B Wallace - SunDance Family Services, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e32a6be-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
SunDance Family Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hampstead, NC 28443
My goal is to offer quality individual, couple and family therapy, including children and adolescents, to those who are struggling with concerns that are keeping them stuck. I conduct therapy in my home office, which offers both comfort and privacy. I assist persons in addressing marital discord, those struggling with depression and anxiety, those who have suffered from early childhood trauma, parents who want help with parenting skills, and anyone who wishes to resolve conflict, either individually or with significant others.
My goal is to offer quality individual, couple and family therapy, including children and adolescents, to those who are struggling with concerns that are keeping them stuck. I conduct therapy in my home office, which offers both comfort and privacy. I assist persons in addressing marital discord, those struggling with depression and anxiety, those who have suffered from early childhood trauma, parents who want help with parenting skills, and anyone who wishes to resolve conflict, either individually or with significant others.
![Photo of Jessica DeLeon, MA , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9d84e1b-819c-49a4-b9ae-2f8e066a2223/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica DeLeon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holly Ridge, NC 28445 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking balance in your life? Want to take on the world and do all the things but some how something is not quite clicking right? Maybe there is struggle in your intimate relationships, or you are unhappy in your life and career, maybe you cant get out of your own head. If you have a strong desire to connect and to achieve in your work and personal life, want better relationships, better quality of life and to feel happy and fulfilled in all that you do, I cant wait to meet you. I understand that there are multiple layers of connection and possibility and want you to understand and embrace who you are in the world.
Seeking balance in your life? Want to take on the world and do all the things but some how something is not quite clicking right? Maybe there is struggle in your intimate relationships, or you are unhappy in your life and career, maybe you cant get out of your own head. If you have a strong desire to connect and to achieve in your work and personal life, want better relationships, better quality of life and to feel happy and fulfilled in all that you do, I cant wait to meet you. I understand that there are multiple layers of connection and possibility and want you to understand and embrace who you are in the world.
![Photo of Ria Hunsinger, MS, LCMHCA, CRC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2185bd3-9000-4cf9-99cf-1c9a7a81b4e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ria Hunsinger
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA, CRC
Verified Verified
Sneads Ferry, NC 28460
Life can get overwhelming and stress can feel debilitating at times. Everyone goes through a period of time in their life where they may need support. I strive to provide a calm, comfortable atmosphere without any judgment and with unconditional positive regard. I'm a fan of a person-centered approach to therapy but I don't follow any one theory because every individual is different and therapy should be unique to you! I love working with people of every background and hope to create a strong therapeutic alliance by working as a team.
Life can get overwhelming and stress can feel debilitating at times. Everyone goes through a period of time in their life where they may need support. I strive to provide a calm, comfortable atmosphere without any judgment and with unconditional positive regard. I'm a fan of a person-centered approach to therapy but I don't follow any one theory because every individual is different and therapy should be unique to you! I love working with people of every background and hope to create a strong therapeutic alliance by working as a team.
![Photo of Dr. Hiza Jackson-Price - Full Circle Life Therapy, PLLC , PhD, LCMHCS, LCAS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7a2ea05-bbe9-498e-95be-9fea67e37f60/1/320x400.jpeg)
Full Circle Life Therapy, PLLC
PhD, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
Holly Ridge, NC 28445 (Online Only)
My ideal clients have a broad range of concerns, including those who have suffered domestic and/or sexual abuse, other traumatic events, mood and anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders. I can help these clients learn coping skills to gain confidence, grow resilient, accept and manage their conditions for a better quality of life. I am Dr. Hiza Jackson-Price, a Navy Veteran, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor and Clinical Addictions Specialist. I've provided both individual and group counseling to chemically dependent persons, as well as families, couples, active-duty military and Veteran populations.
My ideal clients have a broad range of concerns, including those who have suffered domestic and/or sexual abuse, other traumatic events, mood and anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders. I can help these clients learn coping skills to gain confidence, grow resilient, accept and manage their conditions for a better quality of life. I am Dr. Hiza Jackson-Price, a Navy Veteran, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor and Clinical Addictions Specialist. I've provided both individual and group counseling to chemically dependent persons, as well as families, couples, active-duty military and Veteran populations.
![Photo of Summer L Bowman - Beautiful Angels Counseling, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/647f9983-c0c6-400f-9963-0633fbf7fe02/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am Summer Bowman, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, an Adjunct Psychology Instructor, and a US Air Force Veteran. I do virtual counseling with individuals and parents in private practice in Holly Ridge, NC. I have been a counselor for 8 years. My bachelors degree is in Elementary Education with ESL endorsement (K-9). While teaching in public schools, I worked on attaining my Master's Degree in Psychology with a Specialty in Clinical in order to help people, especially those with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
I am Summer Bowman, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, an Adjunct Psychology Instructor, and a US Air Force Veteran. I do virtual counseling with individuals and parents in private practice in Holly Ridge, NC. I have been a counselor for 8 years. My bachelors degree is in Elementary Education with ESL endorsement (K-9). While teaching in public schools, I worked on attaining my Master's Degree in Psychology with a Specialty in Clinical in order to help people, especially those with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
See more therapy options for Surf City
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Surf City, NC
10+
Average cost per session
$125
Therapists in Surf City, NC who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
87% | Relationship Issues |
87% | Depression |
87% | Coping Skills |
87% | Life Transitions |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
70% | Aetna |
50% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Surf City, NC see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Surf City?
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.