Therapists in Oceanside, CA
![Photo of Claudia Goedde, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f7b5270-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel overwhelmed, not knowing how to balance your life and inner longings? Maybe you have resorted to coping skills that are no longer working or are even harming you. And maybe you are dreaming of getting your Self back by finding more meaning, purpose, and joy in your life. Sometimes a little outside guidance can shift our perspective and we can learn effective tools to help us thrive again. I love to help with: Anxiety disorders (including emetophobia), relationship solutions, women's issues, pre/postnatal concerns, women's health, peri/menopause, and parenting solutions.
Do you feel overwhelmed, not knowing how to balance your life and inner longings? Maybe you have resorted to coping skills that are no longer working or are even harming you. And maybe you are dreaming of getting your Self back by finding more meaning, purpose, and joy in your life. Sometimes a little outside guidance can shift our perspective and we can learn effective tools to help us thrive again. I love to help with: Anxiety disorders (including emetophobia), relationship solutions, women's issues, pre/postnatal concerns, women's health, peri/menopause, and parenting solutions.
![Photo of Thomas Patrick Schmierer - Thomas Schmierer, Catholic Therapist, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b24228d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Thomas Schmierer, Catholic Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92054
I am a Catholic therapist who helps INDIVIDUALS, COUPLES, and FAMILIES in pain to experience deep personal and relational healing by using the top faith- and evidence-based treatments so that they can love with more peace, holiness, and joy. I help INDIVIDUALS: (1) Restore peace through deep healing and resolve various internal problems (Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, Post-traumatic stress, OCD, Bipolar disorder, & Poor concentration/organization), (2) Overcome relational challenges like: *Recovering from betrayals due to affairs, addiction, or abuse/neglect, *Overcoming co-dependent/enabling tendencies, *Making better relational choices, & *Dealing better with difficult people.
I am a Catholic therapist who helps INDIVIDUALS, COUPLES, and FAMILIES in pain to experience deep personal and relational healing by using the top faith- and evidence-based treatments so that they can love with more peace, holiness, and joy. I help INDIVIDUALS: (1) Restore peace through deep healing and resolve various internal problems (Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, Post-traumatic stress, OCD, Bipolar disorder, & Poor concentration/organization), (2) Overcome relational challenges like: *Recovering from betrayals due to affairs, addiction, or abuse/neglect, *Overcoming co-dependent/enabling tendencies, *Making better relational choices, & *Dealing better with difficult people.
![Photo of Margaret Effinger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8637a7f-87c6-44f6-b2d9-ea960122ad1d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Effinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057 (Online Only)
We all want to feel heard and secure when we are sharing and exploring our most difficult emotions and memories. Everyone struggles with something, whether it be anxiety, depression, parenting difficulties, grief, or the daily stress of jetting from one responsibility to the next. It is important to take time to care for yourself and work through the issues that are causing you to feel difficult emotions and impacting your day to day functioning. My focus is on being a non-judgmental, supportive presence for you, while also walking through whatever difficulties you may be facing, together.
We all want to feel heard and secure when we are sharing and exploring our most difficult emotions and memories. Everyone struggles with something, whether it be anxiety, depression, parenting difficulties, grief, or the daily stress of jetting from one responsibility to the next. It is important to take time to care for yourself and work through the issues that are causing you to feel difficult emotions and impacting your day to day functioning. My focus is on being a non-judgmental, supportive presence for you, while also walking through whatever difficulties you may be facing, together.
![Photo of Kristy Randall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df4e4590-8988-4e88-8993-8c2877ef1511/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristy Randall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92056 (Online Only)
Welcome, I'm glad you're here. I work with young people typically 12-22 years old, helping them identify what they want to address in therapy, letting them lead this process, and collaborating with them until they feel they have met their goals. I enjoy helping my clients find hope, learn about themselves, and develop healthy skills. I enjoy working with young people because I can be a person in their life who sees them not only in their difficulties but who sees their gifts and strengths. I am experienced in helping young people navigate stress & anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, and other mental health challenges.
Welcome, I'm glad you're here. I work with young people typically 12-22 years old, helping them identify what they want to address in therapy, letting them lead this process, and collaborating with them until they feel they have met their goals. I enjoy helping my clients find hope, learn about themselves, and develop healthy skills. I enjoy working with young people because I can be a person in their life who sees them not only in their difficulties but who sees their gifts and strengths. I am experienced in helping young people navigate stress & anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, and other mental health challenges.
![Photo of Carolina Myrvold, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afead9cb-933f-4671-995c-cb0d47325c5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Carolina Myrvold and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Los Angeles County, California and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I have been a Psychotherapist in Southern California for over 20 years where I specialize in parenting and infant mental health. Via telehealth I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in helping families and individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community. I use Relational Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help individuals, parents, couples, and families find peace and wholeness in their relationships.
My name is Carolina Myrvold and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Los Angeles County, California and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I have been a Psychotherapist in Southern California for over 20 years where I specialize in parenting and infant mental health. Via telehealth I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in helping families and individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community. I use Relational Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help individuals, parents, couples, and families find peace and wholeness in their relationships.
![Photo of Angelica Melgoza, MSW, ACSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df1f6f25-40e0-4fb7-8b7f-ea50e6fcac06/2/320x400.jpeg)
My approach to therapy is to create a therapeutic alliance for individuals to be able to freely express their thoughts and feelings in a safe and non-judgmental environment. My goal is to build a trusting therapeutic relationship in which you feel heard, seen, validated, and accepted. I consider myself to be a strength-based therapist and will work with you to create goals, in addition to working through intrusive thoughts. As well as utilizing coping mechanisms and self-care in your daily routine, without feelings of guilt and shame. I am here to support you and meet you where you are.
My approach to therapy is to create a therapeutic alliance for individuals to be able to freely express their thoughts and feelings in a safe and non-judgmental environment. My goal is to build a trusting therapeutic relationship in which you feel heard, seen, validated, and accepted. I consider myself to be a strength-based therapist and will work with you to create goals, in addition to working through intrusive thoughts. As well as utilizing coping mechanisms and self-care in your daily routine, without feelings of guilt and shame. I am here to support you and meet you where you are.
![Photo of Dr. Roger Peter Douglas, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2de31723-5ea3-4453-bf8a-b549c6edc1f4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Roger Peter Douglas
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92057
My name is Dr. Roger Douglas, PsyD, LMFT 124878. I am a psychologist, licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a USMC Veteran. I offer mental health services to Individuals and Groups using evidence-based practices. The theoretical approach I utilize will depend on your presenting problems. Some of these approaches are, Cognitive Theories, Post Modern Theories, Psychodynamic Theories, Client Centered Theories, Systems.
My name is Dr. Roger Douglas, PsyD, LMFT 124878. I am a psychologist, licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a USMC Veteran. I offer mental health services to Individuals and Groups using evidence-based practices. The theoretical approach I utilize will depend on your presenting problems. Some of these approaches are, Cognitive Theories, Post Modern Theories, Psychodynamic Theories, Client Centered Theories, Systems.
![Photo of Maria Del 'mar' Rubio Gutierrez, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fa493da-0900-438f-9209-d08319ca4dc1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Del 'mar' Rubio Gutierrez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92056
Mar Rubio is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2016. She has a Bachelor's Degree of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from San Diego State University and a Master's in Counseling Psychology/Specializing in Marriage Family Therapy from National University. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Mar believes every person is unique and complex and she strives to help her clients by listening, understanding, and establishing a genuine human connection to help them move towards a more fulfilling life.
Mar Rubio is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2016. She has a Bachelor's Degree of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from San Diego State University and a Master's in Counseling Psychology/Specializing in Marriage Family Therapy from National University. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Mar believes every person is unique and complex and she strives to help her clients by listening, understanding, and establishing a genuine human connection to help them move towards a more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Jenna Wheaton, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41423676-1375-46a6-af12-72d74509ee11/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Wheaton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92054 (Online Only)
I work with adults (age 18+) residing in California. I enjoy working with a wide range of human beings, and I recognize the attempt to find our place in the world, especially amidst pain, trauma, and confusion, comes in many different shapes and forms. I am open and enthusiastic about working with a wide variety of folk, and you might be particularly interested in working with me if you are interested in connecting more with yourself. I also have specialized experience working with eating disorders, addictions, grief and loss, traumas, life transitions, spiritual seekers, and artists.
I work with adults (age 18+) residing in California. I enjoy working with a wide range of human beings, and I recognize the attempt to find our place in the world, especially amidst pain, trauma, and confusion, comes in many different shapes and forms. I am open and enthusiastic about working with a wide variety of folk, and you might be particularly interested in working with me if you are interested in connecting more with yourself. I also have specialized experience working with eating disorders, addictions, grief and loss, traumas, life transitions, spiritual seekers, and artists.
![Photo of Naomi Novak, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0b505ba-c975-4e90-ad54-6a57ac4bf324/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I have been serving others in the Mental Health field for over 20 years. I have extensive experience working with families, individuals and groups. My core gift is helping others to feel that they matter and to find hope. I give it by offering new perspectives, providing acceptance, showing compassion, and never giving up on them. I work from a person driven, strength-based, solution focused planning and problem solving approach. It is individualized, which means that every client gets a unique plan that fits them and their beliefs and values, not the cookie cutter plan that everybody else gets.
Hello! I have been serving others in the Mental Health field for over 20 years. I have extensive experience working with families, individuals and groups. My core gift is helping others to feel that they matter and to find hope. I give it by offering new perspectives, providing acceptance, showing compassion, and never giving up on them. I work from a person driven, strength-based, solution focused planning and problem solving approach. It is individualized, which means that every client gets a unique plan that fits them and their beliefs and values, not the cookie cutter plan that everybody else gets.
![Photo of Frank John Trapani, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d60f4c37-96d3-4309-92ac-f6d04556572c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Frank John Trapani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I'm Frank Trapani, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Congratulations on initiating this important step towards your personal growth and wellness. The field of psychology and mental health can be confusing, often generating more questions than solutions. I offer a practical, straightforward, and compassionate approach to improving mental health, relationships, and overall wellbeing. We don’t have to continue playing out the script that we inherited; instead, we can work towards carving out a life that feels authentic, exciting, and filled with joy.
Hello, I'm Frank Trapani, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Congratulations on initiating this important step towards your personal growth and wellness. The field of psychology and mental health can be confusing, often generating more questions than solutions. I offer a practical, straightforward, and compassionate approach to improving mental health, relationships, and overall wellbeing. We don’t have to continue playing out the script that we inherited; instead, we can work towards carving out a life that feels authentic, exciting, and filled with joy.
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Athletes & Leaders who want to be better. Psychological improvement to have better relationships with yourself and others means becoming a better version of you. A more authentic, deeper, and grounded self. A better father, husband, and friend. It also means better performance at work.
Athletes & Leaders who want to be better. Psychological improvement to have better relationships with yourself and others means becoming a better version of you. A more authentic, deeper, and grounded self. A better father, husband, and friend. It also means better performance at work.
![Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/140b98cd-3fa1-4054-a00b-8fa1c9f8d221/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
![Photo of Aubree Dospoy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50ef5d66-0882-43e0-8f28-b391598513aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there, I'm Aubree! My name is Aubree Dospoy, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I am based in North County, San Diego, and I work via telehealth with clients statewide in California. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I work with adults and adolescents using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to work toward goals and support growth. My approach to therapy is individual to the client. We will work together to explore your needs and decide what to focus on to get the most benefit from our time together.
Hi there, I'm Aubree! My name is Aubree Dospoy, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I am based in North County, San Diego, and I work via telehealth with clients statewide in California. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I work with adults and adolescents using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to work toward goals and support growth. My approach to therapy is individual to the client. We will work together to explore your needs and decide what to focus on to get the most benefit from our time together.
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I'm here to help you figure out how to work sex and intimacy in your life, whatever your disability or blocks might be. Sex is everywhere around us, on social media, TV, movies, and your best friends bridal shower- but how to work with your limitations to get to it never is. I'm here to help you figure out the hows. I've had a life full of adventure and education. Intersectionality is my jam- let's figure out how all your bits come together to make you.
I'm here to help you figure out how to work sex and intimacy in your life, whatever your disability or blocks might be. Sex is everywhere around us, on social media, TV, movies, and your best friends bridal shower- but how to work with your limitations to get to it never is. I'm here to help you figure out the hows. I've had a life full of adventure and education. Intersectionality is my jam- let's figure out how all your bits come together to make you.
![Photo of Monica Oropeza, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cae0c931-7693-47a0-a7fd-de95c13194d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Monica Oropeza is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2020. Monica strongly believes in people. She believes that every individual has her own unique strengths and abilities, and these can be capitalized on particularly during times of need. All people are capable of changing and improving their lives, and at times, simply need help with finding the right direction. Her clients are the ones in the driver's seat, and she is there to lend a helping hand. Monica's focus is on the clients and listening to what they wish to gain from therapy.
Monica Oropeza is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2020. Monica strongly believes in people. She believes that every individual has her own unique strengths and abilities, and these can be capitalized on particularly during times of need. All people are capable of changing and improving their lives, and at times, simply need help with finding the right direction. Her clients are the ones in the driver's seat, and she is there to lend a helping hand. Monica's focus is on the clients and listening to what they wish to gain from therapy.
![Photo of Rashida N Black, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3b34ba0-9e20-404d-a8e3-754a38d62b42/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rashida N Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92054
Life seems intense, overwhelming, or stressful right now. Fear, anger, and exhaustion are familiar emotions. Your parent/boss/spouse just doesn't get it and you don't know how to explain it to them. Perhaps you're questioning your identity, coming out to your family or to your child(ren), experiencing separation/divorce, ready to transition, or coping with loss. You want a safe place to discuss and leave behind feelings of loneliness, sadness, and confusion. You want to figure out a way to get through the week (the day!) and the next. You want relief. You want to be understood. Let's talk. Your first phone consultation is free.
Life seems intense, overwhelming, or stressful right now. Fear, anger, and exhaustion are familiar emotions. Your parent/boss/spouse just doesn't get it and you don't know how to explain it to them. Perhaps you're questioning your identity, coming out to your family or to your child(ren), experiencing separation/divorce, ready to transition, or coping with loss. You want a safe place to discuss and leave behind feelings of loneliness, sadness, and confusion. You want to figure out a way to get through the week (the day!) and the next. You want relief. You want to be understood. Let's talk. Your first phone consultation is free.
![Photo of Esther Kang, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9cd3e2e-78b2-4c2a-bdff-a6dc2cbb7fcf/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Esther Kang. I'm a licensed clinical social worker. I seek to create a safe, caring, and supportive environment to support you through your journey of healing. I think it's important to work collaboratively to reduce distress, and emotional pain related to issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship concerns. I primarily use motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychotherapy modalities. I value person-centered and strength-based care.
My name is Esther Kang. I'm a licensed clinical social worker. I seek to create a safe, caring, and supportive environment to support you through your journey of healing. I think it's important to work collaboratively to reduce distress, and emotional pain related to issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship concerns. I primarily use motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychotherapy modalities. I value person-centered and strength-based care.
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For those who have come to the conclusion that things need to change, for those who are committed to reaching their goals, for those who want too understand why, and for those in search of something better this work is for you. Be it related to trauma, depression, anxiety, familial or relationship issues, or any other struggles, it is a universal truth that there will be times when we find ourselves in need of a helping hand.
For those who have come to the conclusion that things need to change, for those who are committed to reaching their goals, for those who want too understand why, and for those in search of something better this work is for you. Be it related to trauma, depression, anxiety, familial or relationship issues, or any other struggles, it is a universal truth that there will be times when we find ourselves in need of a helping hand.
![Photo of Elena Gonzalez, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbfde934-22fc-4390-954d-a2e203986613/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elena Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92058 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Therapist with 13 years of experience. I offer video sessions across CA, FL, NC, WA, and CT. My specialty areas include military family life stress, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, life transitions, postpartum mood disorders, infertility, parenting challenges, and other mental health issues. My approach is solution-oriented, client-centered, and non-judgemental; it combines solution-focused, Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioural theory, and EMDR-based techniques. I am dedicated to assisting my clients in developing coping skills to help them lead more fulfilling and enriching lives.
I am a Licensed Therapist with 13 years of experience. I offer video sessions across CA, FL, NC, WA, and CT. My specialty areas include military family life stress, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, life transitions, postpartum mood disorders, infertility, parenting challenges, and other mental health issues. My approach is solution-oriented, client-centered, and non-judgemental; it combines solution-focused, Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioural theory, and EMDR-based techniques. I am dedicated to assisting my clients in developing coping skills to help them lead more fulfilling and enriching lives.
See more therapy options for Oceanside
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Oceanside, CA
300+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Oceanside, CA who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
69% | Relationship Issues |
68% | Coping Skills |
67% | Self Esteem |
63% | Stress |
62% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
83% | Aetna |
76% | Cigna and Evernorth |
70% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Oceanside, CA see their clients
76% | In Person and Online | |
24% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
16% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Oceanside?
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.