Therapists in Los Angeles County, CA
![Photo of Erica Lee, PsyD, LMFT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5cd2d67-260b-40e7-be26-2f9afc2c9754/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi. I am an experienced marriage and family therapist and clinical psychologist, with a doctorate from Azusa Pacific University. I am ready to help you overcome internal and interpersonal challenges and live life the way you want to live it. My background has included work in community mental health, school districts, and private practice settings. I am experienced with children, teens, adults, and families and have treated a multitude of issues. I can help with social or communication problems, anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment challenges or life stressors.
Hi. I am an experienced marriage and family therapist and clinical psychologist, with a doctorate from Azusa Pacific University. I am ready to help you overcome internal and interpersonal challenges and live life the way you want to live it. My background has included work in community mental health, school districts, and private practice settings. I am experienced with children, teens, adults, and families and have treated a multitude of issues. I can help with social or communication problems, anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment challenges or life stressors.
![Photo of Marcelene Camou, MS LPCC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/501ee0f1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
When you or a family member has an emotional challenge it significantly impacts the family unit. I'm here to support improved self-concept, confidence and personal interactions. Currently, I am available for long-distance therapy through video conferencing for those living in CA. This technique has been found to be ideal for those individuals with high functioning Autism, OCD, ADHD, Social Phobia, Anxiety and Depression.
When you or a family member has an emotional challenge it significantly impacts the family unit. I'm here to support improved self-concept, confidence and personal interactions. Currently, I am available for long-distance therapy through video conferencing for those living in CA. This technique has been found to be ideal for those individuals with high functioning Autism, OCD, ADHD, Social Phobia, Anxiety and Depression.
![Photo of Melissa W. Cooper, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7b651b6-8c5a-45ff-ae86-8fd8635096a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa W. Cooper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Playa Vista, CA 90094 (Online Only)
Often times life can be difficult, creating coping patterns that work for a while but slowly take away from our wellness. Asking for help can be hard when you feel hopeless to do anything to change. Whether it is feelings of anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, substance use, distorted body image, eating related struggles, life transitions, low self-esteem, ageing related issues or symptoms related to complex trauma, therapy can help gain insight into the experience of being human, identify what isn’t working for you and develop the skills to resolve current life challenges. You don’t have to do it alone.
Often times life can be difficult, creating coping patterns that work for a while but slowly take away from our wellness. Asking for help can be hard when you feel hopeless to do anything to change. Whether it is feelings of anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, substance use, distorted body image, eating related struggles, life transitions, low self-esteem, ageing related issues or symptoms related to complex trauma, therapy can help gain insight into the experience of being human, identify what isn’t working for you and develop the skills to resolve current life challenges. You don’t have to do it alone.
![Photo of Carla Santulli Elkins, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e3a21c9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you concerned about your child's developmental progress? Is your child having difficulty making friends or socializing? Is your child experiencing anxiety or fears? Is your family exhausted by the emotional impact of having a child with special needs? For the past 25 years I have worked with children and families in private practice, in school or at home. I specialize in helping families with children who have neurodevelopment disorders, behavior issues and children with anxiety.
Are you concerned about your child's developmental progress? Is your child having difficulty making friends or socializing? Is your child experiencing anxiety or fears? Is your family exhausted by the emotional impact of having a child with special needs? For the past 25 years I have worked with children and families in private practice, in school or at home. I specialize in helping families with children who have neurodevelopment disorders, behavior issues and children with anxiety.
![Photo of Erin Astin, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9c8aed2-9a87-42fb-b277-85a4394a6daa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Astin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Hello and Welcome! My main priority as your therapist is to ensure you feel heard and understood. I know firsthand the vulnerability that comes with sharing intimate struggles, and I applaud you for showing up for yourself in this way! I approach my clients holistically—not as “problems to solve” but as humans with a rich history and complexity to them. I believe wholeheartedly that you are the expert in your own life, and will work collaboratively with you to develop a plan of care that feels good for you. I have no agenda of my own other than to be your champion and ally throughout this process of growth and healing.
Hello and Welcome! My main priority as your therapist is to ensure you feel heard and understood. I know firsthand the vulnerability that comes with sharing intimate struggles, and I applaud you for showing up for yourself in this way! I approach my clients holistically—not as “problems to solve” but as humans with a rich history and complexity to them. I believe wholeheartedly that you are the expert in your own life, and will work collaboratively with you to develop a plan of care that feels good for you. I have no agenda of my own other than to be your champion and ally throughout this process of growth and healing.
![Photo of Pei Chai, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f2576fb-395f-40c0-9379-97d38bb6d4fb/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a diverse background and a strong cultural awareness due to years spent in various countries. In addition to English, I speak Thai and Mandarin fluently. My passion is working with couples and individuals who are struggling with interpersonal relationships and are seeking to heal from past traumas. I believe that we all have the potential for a genuine and loving covenantal connection but the pain we have experienced hinders our ability to do so.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a diverse background and a strong cultural awareness due to years spent in various countries. In addition to English, I speak Thai and Mandarin fluently. My passion is working with couples and individuals who are struggling with interpersonal relationships and are seeking to heal from past traumas. I believe that we all have the potential for a genuine and loving covenantal connection but the pain we have experienced hinders our ability to do so.
![Photo of Joanna Amenero - Cóndor Center Inc, MSW, LCSW, LPHA, RADT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58b8f2c3-a671-4f81-83b9-cb70c7f42a8d/2/320x400.png)
Cóndor Center Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LPHA, RADT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cudahy, CA 90201 (Online Only)
Hola, I am LCSW Joanna, a Peruvian therapist that grew up in the city of Cudahy. I am the founder of CONDOR CENTER, a group private practice made of BIPOC clinicians who share similar backgrounds, therapeutic approach and level of energy when providing services. In therapy my holistic and alternative approach is sex positive. I work with the LGBTQ+ population, the military and veteran community. I promote the importance of radical self-care and how this is what leads to emotional, mental, sexual and physical health. My specialty is working with survivors of trauma. I help individuals navigate ancestral healing, generational and
Hola, I am LCSW Joanna, a Peruvian therapist that grew up in the city of Cudahy. I am the founder of CONDOR CENTER, a group private practice made of BIPOC clinicians who share similar backgrounds, therapeutic approach and level of energy when providing services. In therapy my holistic and alternative approach is sex positive. I work with the LGBTQ+ population, the military and veteran community. I promote the importance of radical self-care and how this is what leads to emotional, mental, sexual and physical health. My specialty is working with survivors of trauma. I help individuals navigate ancestral healing, generational and
![Photo of Allison Carter, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9ab4765-70ac-4b08-b94c-cc1d169c9e4f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Welcome! I work with people who struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, eating disorders and the transition to parenthood. I love supporting people with quieting the mind and decreasing inhibition. I also love helping people work through past experiences and figure out what it would look like to more fully live your life in the present.
Welcome! I work with people who struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, eating disorders and the transition to parenthood. I love supporting people with quieting the mind and decreasing inhibition. I also love helping people work through past experiences and figure out what it would look like to more fully live your life in the present.
![Photo of Mercedes Quiceno, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca42512-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mercedes Quiceno
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Whittier, CA 90601
I enjoy working with couples and adults of all life stages, suffering from anxiety, depression, trying improve communications, relationships, functioning, and enhancing overall life satisfaction. I collaborate with you to come up with reasonable and attainable goals for positive life changes. You will experience a confidential and non-judgmental environment, where you are heard, understood, and appreciated. We explore your unique beliefs, thoughts, feelings and circumstances while discovering the therapy approach that works best for you. I am expanding my business working hours to early mornings and some Saturdays.
I enjoy working with couples and adults of all life stages, suffering from anxiety, depression, trying improve communications, relationships, functioning, and enhancing overall life satisfaction. I collaborate with you to come up with reasonable and attainable goals for positive life changes. You will experience a confidential and non-judgmental environment, where you are heard, understood, and appreciated. We explore your unique beliefs, thoughts, feelings and circumstances while discovering the therapy approach that works best for you. I am expanding my business working hours to early mornings and some Saturdays.
![Photo of Bobbie (Roberta) Feinberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c4d54bc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bobbie (Roberta) Feinberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I have been working with adolescents, adults and couples for over 25 years in the WLA area specializing in anxiety, depression and relationship issues. The focus of our work can either be short term- working to resolve a particular issue or long term- a) developing insight and awareness into how the past and your experiences impact who you are today and b) developing and practicing new emotional skills. Together we will make the decision to enable you to have a more productive and fulfilling life.
I have been working with adolescents, adults and couples for over 25 years in the WLA area specializing in anxiety, depression and relationship issues. The focus of our work can either be short term- working to resolve a particular issue or long term- a) developing insight and awareness into how the past and your experiences impact who you are today and b) developing and practicing new emotional skills. Together we will make the decision to enable you to have a more productive and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Margaret Lamb, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42a0c3cf-ed4e-43d1-8786-abfa447bd66b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Lamb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045 (Online Only)
I believe that we as humans can turn pain into power (I have experienced this myself)! I also believe that when you feel seen, understood, and safe, healing happens. There are not many places where we can come to be, breathe, and experience unconditional acceptance. Therapy is a place where you can show up as yourself, keep it real, cry, laugh, and do everything in between without feeling judged. It also provides an experience of safety, calm, openness, and engagement.
I believe that we as humans can turn pain into power (I have experienced this myself)! I also believe that when you feel seen, understood, and safe, healing happens. There are not many places where we can come to be, breathe, and experience unconditional acceptance. Therapy is a place where you can show up as yourself, keep it real, cry, laugh, and do everything in between without feeling judged. It also provides an experience of safety, calm, openness, and engagement.
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![Photo of Amanda Verwys, MSW, ASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50fa9464-2629-4994-a3df-002cf2099b39/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Verwys
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277 (Online Only)
No one should go through their grief and loss journey alone. My role is to serve and guide others as they move from surviving their loss to adapting, and then to healing and moving forward in the new terrible realities we would never choose but are forced to face. Whether the loss is recent or happened months or years ago, we'll have space to hold all that comes with it and supportive guidance towards healing rather than functioning. I've worked with those who've lost partners, siblings, friends, children, as well as survivors of suicide, and those who've received life-changing news or are navigating grief in life transitions.
No one should go through their grief and loss journey alone. My role is to serve and guide others as they move from surviving their loss to adapting, and then to healing and moving forward in the new terrible realities we would never choose but are forced to face. Whether the loss is recent or happened months or years ago, we'll have space to hold all that comes with it and supportive guidance towards healing rather than functioning. I've worked with those who've lost partners, siblings, friends, children, as well as survivors of suicide, and those who've received life-changing news or are navigating grief in life transitions.
![Photo of Vanessa Espinosa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64f76584-2720-4823-b1c6-903c3557b0f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vanessa Espinosa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91106
Therapy is a unique opportunity for exploration and understanding of one's own story, and can facilitate healing and transformation during trying times. In my practice, I work collaboratively with clients to uncover and strengthen their inner wisdom, while teaching them skills needed to maneuver through life's challenges, changes and transitions. I provide a supportive and hope-filled environment that allows for a journey of self-discovery, and helps to foster self-love, self-compassion, and acceptance.
Therapy is a unique opportunity for exploration and understanding of one's own story, and can facilitate healing and transformation during trying times. In my practice, I work collaboratively with clients to uncover and strengthen their inner wisdom, while teaching them skills needed to maneuver through life's challenges, changes and transitions. I provide a supportive and hope-filled environment that allows for a journey of self-discovery, and helps to foster self-love, self-compassion, and acceptance.
![Photo of Canzi Wang, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a30e280-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I’m glad you are here! Looking for a therapist means you’ve taken the initiative to ask for help and seek for change. Many people say that they already start to feel better after making their first appointment. Whether you are feeling stuck or blocked to achieve your goals, losing self-confidence and motivation; or having difficulty coping with a recent loss, a big life change; or finding yourself feeling more anxious, sad, angry, or having more arguments and feeling unsatisfied in your significant relationships; or you are interested in figuring out who you are and feel more connected with yourself; I am here for you.
I’m glad you are here! Looking for a therapist means you’ve taken the initiative to ask for help and seek for change. Many people say that they already start to feel better after making their first appointment. Whether you are feeling stuck or blocked to achieve your goals, losing self-confidence and motivation; or having difficulty coping with a recent loss, a big life change; or finding yourself feeling more anxious, sad, angry, or having more arguments and feeling unsatisfied in your significant relationships; or you are interested in figuring out who you are and feel more connected with yourself; I am here for you.
![Photo of Robert Aguilar - Empowering Minds Psychotherapy, MA, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e572f1f-380b-42f8-8954-cbe2b1484e6c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robert Aguilar - Empowering Minds Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
Many of us, including myself, can find it difficult to identify the cause of generally feeling discomfort and uneasiness. We might wake up feeling stuck, worthless, hopeless, lacking energy or simply have no sense of self. It is the heavy feeling in the chest or gut, an overwhelming feeling of not being who or what we thought we would be in life. That feeling of malaise does not respect if you are male, female, non-binary or if you are 16 or 65 years of age. Any of us can and will suffer from anxiety and / or depression at some point in our lives. I have helped individuals with wide ranging mental health challenges, such as
Many of us, including myself, can find it difficult to identify the cause of generally feeling discomfort and uneasiness. We might wake up feeling stuck, worthless, hopeless, lacking energy or simply have no sense of self. It is the heavy feeling in the chest or gut, an overwhelming feeling of not being who or what we thought we would be in life. That feeling of malaise does not respect if you are male, female, non-binary or if you are 16 or 65 years of age. Any of us can and will suffer from anxiety and / or depression at some point in our lives. I have helped individuals with wide ranging mental health challenges, such as
![Photo of Lauren Joy Furutani, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4492e354-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a human, I'm committed wholeheartedly to forming earnest, meaningful connections with others. As a therapist, I lead with compassion and curiosity so that we can develop a relationship of trust and honesty together. I will bring my full self to our work - including professional and personal growth and experience - to help us form a robust relationship to bear the pain of your trauma, better understand how you learned to adapt to the challenges of life, and find new awareness and perspective for how to find a more engaged and satisfying life experience.
As a human, I'm committed wholeheartedly to forming earnest, meaningful connections with others. As a therapist, I lead with compassion and curiosity so that we can develop a relationship of trust and honesty together. I will bring my full self to our work - including professional and personal growth and experience - to help us form a robust relationship to bear the pain of your trauma, better understand how you learned to adapt to the challenges of life, and find new awareness and perspective for how to find a more engaged and satisfying life experience.
![Photo of Maria Ruelas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5f5e4ce-0ad6-4d7c-ab0a-49f4f6c16ce8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Bilingual (Spanish speaking) Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes working with children, young adults, and families. I earned my master's degree from USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work and my doctorate degree at USC Rossier School of Education. I am a highly motivated and passionate individual who is committed to providing excellent clinical interventions and outreach services regarding mental health and wellness to any of my clients. I am self-aware and culturally competent as I have had the opportunity to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences.
I am a Bilingual (Spanish speaking) Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes working with children, young adults, and families. I earned my master's degree from USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work and my doctorate degree at USC Rossier School of Education. I am a highly motivated and passionate individual who is committed to providing excellent clinical interventions and outreach services regarding mental health and wellness to any of my clients. I am self-aware and culturally competent as I have had the opportunity to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences.
![Photo of Stephanie Drotman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/647ea3d3-212c-4855-9f5e-c763fe526f47/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Drotman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2018. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of California, Los Angeles and her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Southern California with a concentration in adult mental health/wellness and a specialization in co-occurring disorders and severe mental illness. Stephanie is intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and is certified and/or trained in trauma modalities such as TF-CBT, IFS, and Prolonged Exposure. Additionally, she has been sober and in recovery for 17 years.
Stephanie Drotman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2018. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of California, Los Angeles and her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Southern California with a concentration in adult mental health/wellness and a specialization in co-occurring disorders and severe mental illness. Stephanie is intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and is certified and/or trained in trauma modalities such as TF-CBT, IFS, and Prolonged Exposure. Additionally, she has been sober and in recovery for 17 years.
![Photo of Lena Dicken, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/497343b8-cde8-42fa-b3ce-7a689b37502e/2/320x400.jpeg)
The process of therapy is one of self exploration and self discovery. Many of my clients seek therapy during life transitions or when experiencing relationship challenges. Some suffer from lack of self confidence, or are plagued by anxiety without an understanding of its cause. Through our work together I help people gain insight and understanding about the problems they’re encountering and become aware of unhelpful patterns they may be repeating. As a result of gaining new perspectives and understanding their emotional landscape on a deeper level, my clients often experience life in a more rich and meaningful way.
The process of therapy is one of self exploration and self discovery. Many of my clients seek therapy during life transitions or when experiencing relationship challenges. Some suffer from lack of self confidence, or are plagued by anxiety without an understanding of its cause. Through our work together I help people gain insight and understanding about the problems they’re encountering and become aware of unhelpful patterns they may be repeating. As a result of gaining new perspectives and understanding their emotional landscape on a deeper level, my clients often experience life in a more rich and meaningful way.
![Photo of Melyssa Macquarrie, CP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35ceafa2-9b27-4db3-a0b4-27784ca792d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Melyssa MacQuarrie. I've been a licensed psychologist for 20 years. I specialize in working anxiety, depression (including post-partum depression), PTSD, trauma, low self-esteem, stress, difficulty adjusting to changes, personality disorders, relationship problems, and communication issues. My main treatment approach is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which is a research-backed approach that helps people gain insight into their problems and learn how to solve them. I'll meet you where you are in your life's journey and help you make choices for change in a compassionate, nonjudgmental setting.
Hello, my name is Melyssa MacQuarrie. I've been a licensed psychologist for 20 years. I specialize in working anxiety, depression (including post-partum depression), PTSD, trauma, low self-esteem, stress, difficulty adjusting to changes, personality disorders, relationship problems, and communication issues. My main treatment approach is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which is a research-backed approach that helps people gain insight into their problems and learn how to solve them. I'll meet you where you are in your life's journey and help you make choices for change in a compassionate, nonjudgmental setting.
See more therapy options for Los Angeles County
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Los Angeles County, CA
3,000+
Average cost per session
$175
Therapists in Los Angeles County, CA who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
73% | Relationship Issues |
72% | Self Esteem |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
65% | Coping Skills |
64% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
77% | Aetna |
70% | Cigna and Evernorth |
65% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Los Angeles County, CA see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
20% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Los Angeles County?
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.