Therapists in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
![Photo of Kathleen Felber, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f4e5471-e560-41fd-a3a3-cbc358b545c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Felber
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 (Online Only)
Living in a stressful world can lead to many issues from anxiety and depression to difficulty managing relationships. I specialize in working with teens and adults to improve their mental health and well-being. I enjoy helping others find peace and hope for their future. I pride myself on being authentic and honest for optimal healing.
Living in a stressful world can lead to many issues from anxiety and depression to difficulty managing relationships. I specialize in working with teens and adults to improve their mental health and well-being. I enjoy helping others find peace and hope for their future. I pride myself on being authentic and honest for optimal healing.
![Photo of Catherine Moore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc4ed109-c134-40ec-8eae-02d2903c9504/1/320x400.png)
Catherine Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
If you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed out, alone, and like you are having a hard time with everything going on in your life then you are in the right place. I get it. Sometimes the stress of work, family life, finances, friends, and other responsibilities gets to be too much. "Self-care" makes us feel guilty or selfish. When you feel like you can't turn your brain off this makes it hard to sleep or stay asleep, makes us feel more irritable with loved ones, and starts to impact our relationships and even our physical health.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed out, alone, and like you are having a hard time with everything going on in your life then you are in the right place. I get it. Sometimes the stress of work, family life, finances, friends, and other responsibilities gets to be too much. "Self-care" makes us feel guilty or selfish. When you feel like you can't turn your brain off this makes it hard to sleep or stay asleep, makes us feel more irritable with loved ones, and starts to impact our relationships and even our physical health.
![Photo of Justin Weber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddc816c2-0a7a-4593-9f43-3073db39afd0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Justin Weber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
I've been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the past 14 years and love what I do. I approach all my clients with empathy and compassion whatever reason they are seeking therapy. I have been trained specifically to work with couples, relationships, and individuals suffering from addiction, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, Bipolar, PTSD, infidelity, and grief. I want my clients to achieve results including greater independence, symptom reduction, and general quality of life. My approach to therapy is eclectic and depending what are your core issues you bring in.
I've been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the past 14 years and love what I do. I approach all my clients with empathy and compassion whatever reason they are seeking therapy. I have been trained specifically to work with couples, relationships, and individuals suffering from addiction, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, Bipolar, PTSD, infidelity, and grief. I want my clients to achieve results including greater independence, symptom reduction, and general quality of life. My approach to therapy is eclectic and depending what are your core issues you bring in.
![Photo of Benjamin Taitz, PsyD, MA, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c74af642-9548-4b1a-ae0d-11d87b92e8f8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a registered psychological associate in California working under the supervision of Dr. Gregg Baringoldz (License: PSY11971). My goal as a therapist is to help each client learn how to be the hero of their own story, to gain skills to manage their mental health, and develop their strengths. There is no battle scarier than the one we do in our own minds, and my job is to help you through that battle and achieve your goals.
I am a registered psychological associate in California working under the supervision of Dr. Gregg Baringoldz (License: PSY11971). My goal as a therapist is to help each client learn how to be the hero of their own story, to gain skills to manage their mental health, and develop their strengths. There is no battle scarier than the one we do in our own minds, and my job is to help you through that battle and achieve your goals.
![Photo of Brooke Rawls, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5962015c-154a-4e7b-982d-a292959e04cf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brooke Rawls
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 (Online Only)
Therapy can be a vulnerable space to enter and I am here to cheer you on along the way. I’ll provide a warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental space to support your mental health journey. During sessions, I’ll seek to help you better understand the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are keeping you stuck and preventing you from reaching your goals. I tailor my approach according to the unique needs of my clientele while remaining sensitive to their personal stories. I hope to embark on this adventure with you and be a grounding resource for taking steps toward living the life you want to live.
Therapy can be a vulnerable space to enter and I am here to cheer you on along the way. I’ll provide a warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental space to support your mental health journey. During sessions, I’ll seek to help you better understand the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are keeping you stuck and preventing you from reaching your goals. I tailor my approach according to the unique needs of my clientele while remaining sensitive to their personal stories. I hope to embark on this adventure with you and be a grounding resource for taking steps toward living the life you want to live.
![Photo of Dr. Lechelle Brueggeman, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/430b12e1-4069-4065-99c5-798bd35b14f5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lechelle Brueggeman
Psychological Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
Dr. Brueggeman is a part Native Hawaiian who moved to Orange County, California over ten years ago to pursue her professional passion for psychology. She has made it her lifelong mission to help others in need whether in public or private practice. She has many years of professional experience providing rehabilitation counseling and therapeutic support for individuals, couples, families, and youth. Dr. Brueggeman genuinely believes in the importance of having compassion and empathy for all of her clients with special consideration for those identifying from diverse cultural backgrounds, socioeconomic class , and sexual orientations.
Dr. Brueggeman is a part Native Hawaiian who moved to Orange County, California over ten years ago to pursue her professional passion for psychology. She has made it her lifelong mission to help others in need whether in public or private practice. She has many years of professional experience providing rehabilitation counseling and therapeutic support for individuals, couples, families, and youth. Dr. Brueggeman genuinely believes in the importance of having compassion and empathy for all of her clients with special consideration for those identifying from diverse cultural backgrounds, socioeconomic class , and sexual orientations.
![Photo of Stephanie Magana, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2259f48d-f63b-4a19-b14c-36f023b60c47/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Magana
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 (Online Only)
In all seasons of life, we experience obstacles between where we are and where we'd like to be. These obstacles can often present themselves in the form of anxiety, depression, a lack of self-confidence, relational issues, or unresolved trauma/grief, etc. I work with individuals in a collaborative process to explore these obstacles, challenge old patterns and beliefs, and find new ways of thinking and living. It is my hope that therapy is a positive journey for every individual and that starts with finding the right therapist. My approach is very relational, interactive, and direct.
In all seasons of life, we experience obstacles between where we are and where we'd like to be. These obstacles can often present themselves in the form of anxiety, depression, a lack of self-confidence, relational issues, or unresolved trauma/grief, etc. I work with individuals in a collaborative process to explore these obstacles, challenge old patterns and beliefs, and find new ways of thinking and living. It is my hope that therapy is a positive journey for every individual and that starts with finding the right therapist. My approach is very relational, interactive, and direct.
![Photo of Monique Austria, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55240afc-73a0-466e-ac62-d2d1c1b5b8fa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Monique Austria
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
I believe therapy has the potential to give us the power and tools to build the life we want for ourselves. Together we explore the past, present relationships and experiences which influence our thoughts and actions. As your therapist I guide you through life obstacles, past trauma, negative thoughts that hinder progress and undermine your confidence. I work with adult individuals who have experienced trauma, difficulty grieving, anxiety, work stress, recent loss, family stress, and feeling stuck in life.
I believe therapy has the potential to give us the power and tools to build the life we want for ourselves. Together we explore the past, present relationships and experiences which influence our thoughts and actions. As your therapist I guide you through life obstacles, past trauma, negative thoughts that hinder progress and undermine your confidence. I work with adult individuals who have experienced trauma, difficulty grieving, anxiety, work stress, recent loss, family stress, and feeling stuck in life.
![Photo of Katherine Dawn Barton, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f7a847c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katherine Dawn Barton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 (Online Only)
If you are ready to change your life and relationships positively. I am here to help you meet those goals. My name is Katherine, and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of their emotional and relational challenges. Whether you're struggling with relationship issues, marital difficulties, or the impact of past traumas on your present life, I'm here to provide a supportive and understanding environment where we can work together toward healing and growth.
If you are ready to change your life and relationships positively. I am here to help you meet those goals. My name is Katherine, and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of their emotional and relational challenges. Whether you're struggling with relationship issues, marital difficulties, or the impact of past traumas on your present life, I'm here to provide a supportive and understanding environment where we can work together toward healing and growth.
![Photo of Charmayne Bowens, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09ee682c-2143-4ec0-b3a6-81a9a084f808/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charmayne Bowens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 (Online Only)
I believe in meeting the client where they are. It is essential to take time to develop a therapeutic relationship because our relationship will be the foundation of our work together. We will start our journey with an assessment and learning new coping skills that will increase positive outcomes.
I believe in meeting the client where they are. It is essential to take time to develop a therapeutic relationship because our relationship will be the foundation of our work together. We will start our journey with an assessment and learning new coping skills that will increase positive outcomes.
![Photo of Talah Moaddab, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2162cacd-0ea3-4d84-8d93-b6d81e65aeca/3/320x400.jpeg)
Talah Moaddab
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 (Online Only)
Do you feel anxious, alone, stuck, or disconnected in your life? Has something bad happened to you in the past and it seems to be controlling how you feel and interact with others in your life today? Often times when trauma occurs, it gets locked in our body and we learn to live through life functioning from a set of beliefs and behaviors. These beliefs and behaviors may not be serving you well and may actually be causing disruptions towards a happier self.
Do you feel anxious, alone, stuck, or disconnected in your life? Has something bad happened to you in the past and it seems to be controlling how you feel and interact with others in your life today? Often times when trauma occurs, it gets locked in our body and we learn to live through life functioning from a set of beliefs and behaviors. These beliefs and behaviors may not be serving you well and may actually be causing disruptions towards a happier self.
15 Second Videos
Melissa Berschauer
Lynda G Helfend
John J O'Donnell III
Gabriel Lowe
Lauren (Lo) Wise
![Photo of Karla Flores, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09ed6675-fb67-4b20-9c9a-17a9f3a563ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karla Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 (Online Only)
I am a firm believer in the power of genuine and meaningful connection with others and the importance of feeling heard, understood, and seen. My approach is to use evidence-based practices to create positive change in my client’s lives and relationships. I foster a collaborative relationship to support my clients in meeting their own therapeutic goals. Those who have worked with me describe me as thoughtful, nurturing, and genuine.
I am a firm believer in the power of genuine and meaningful connection with others and the importance of feeling heard, understood, and seen. My approach is to use evidence-based practices to create positive change in my client’s lives and relationships. I foster a collaborative relationship to support my clients in meeting their own therapeutic goals. Those who have worked with me describe me as thoughtful, nurturing, and genuine.
![Photo of Ashley Burrell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b67b455-1331-4312-a3b5-0746b8c1abf8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Burrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I provide individual therapy to adults who are having a hard time managing their day-to-day life due to anxiety, depression, and trauma. With the various labels and stigmas attached to mental health, you should first give yourself grace as you’ve started or maybe continue your journey to show up as your best self. As a strength-based and solution-focused clinician, it brings me great pleasure when my clients can navigate through their mental health challenges and utilize their mental health toolbox to show up as their authentic selves.
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I provide individual therapy to adults who are having a hard time managing their day-to-day life due to anxiety, depression, and trauma. With the various labels and stigmas attached to mental health, you should first give yourself grace as you’ve started or maybe continue your journey to show up as your best self. As a strength-based and solution-focused clinician, it brings me great pleasure when my clients can navigate through their mental health challenges and utilize their mental health toolbox to show up as their authentic selves.
![Photo of Anne San Juan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0007eea4-25cb-4970-97c5-dc7f2b232de9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anne San Juan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 (Online Only)
Life events are like pieces of a puzzle that create the picture of where you are today. I have worked with women who left abusive relationships for the safety of a shelter to addicts/ alcoholics looking toward the path of recovery and now with mentally ill clients who seek a normal. I work on relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, addiction, abuse, trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, and codependency. I am a straightforward, caring, intuitively connected therapist that gets to your core issues to help you better understand how you got to where you are, how you can get unstuck, and how to move forward.
Life events are like pieces of a puzzle that create the picture of where you are today. I have worked with women who left abusive relationships for the safety of a shelter to addicts/ alcoholics looking toward the path of recovery and now with mentally ill clients who seek a normal. I work on relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, addiction, abuse, trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, and codependency. I am a straightforward, caring, intuitively connected therapist that gets to your core issues to help you better understand how you got to where you are, how you can get unstuck, and how to move forward.
![Photo of Dr. Heather Kaplan-Santos, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2853f8e-baea-470c-9dfb-c9d1934100f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Some of the presenting themes I work with include feeling "stuck", anxiety and rumination, difficulty with achieving goals, overwhelm, disconnection from self or others, lack of motivation, loss of independence, and loss of joy. I work by providing support and psycho-education related to these experiences to reconnect you to hope and wellness. My goal is to provide you a safe place to process, a place to feel connected, and provide an opportunity for you to feel heard. My approach is designed to give you with insight about how your mind works and help you to create a plan that optimizes your functioning and well-being.
Some of the presenting themes I work with include feeling "stuck", anxiety and rumination, difficulty with achieving goals, overwhelm, disconnection from self or others, lack of motivation, loss of independence, and loss of joy. I work by providing support and psycho-education related to these experiences to reconnect you to hope and wellness. My goal is to provide you a safe place to process, a place to feel connected, and provide an opportunity for you to feel heard. My approach is designed to give you with insight about how your mind works and help you to create a plan that optimizes your functioning and well-being.
![Photo of Jennifer D Rowe, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ce1f546-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer D Rowe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
Hi there! I know that finding the right therapist can be challenging, especially when things may already feel overwhelming and you've been doing your best to keep your head above water. Life gets busy, relationships get strained, and it can be tough to juggle all of the different hats you wear. I believe that everyone has strengths and my goal is to empower you to work through barriers that may lead you to be feeling stuck. I provide a safe, nurturing environment where we can work together to reduce your emotional pain from childhood, adulthood or from traumatic events. I am compassionate, non-judgmental and a therapist who cares!
Hi there! I know that finding the right therapist can be challenging, especially when things may already feel overwhelming and you've been doing your best to keep your head above water. Life gets busy, relationships get strained, and it can be tough to juggle all of the different hats you wear. I believe that everyone has strengths and my goal is to empower you to work through barriers that may lead you to be feeling stuck. I provide a safe, nurturing environment where we can work together to reduce your emotional pain from childhood, adulthood or from traumatic events. I am compassionate, non-judgmental and a therapist who cares!
![Photo of Alexandra Poling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cb57c77-09ff-40df-acea-72593947f16e/1/320x400.png)
Alexandra Poling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 (Online Only)
Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), along with skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness, I help my clients identify and change ways of thinking and coping that may be impacting their mental health. This approach includes teaching coping skills that will target specific symptoms and triggers as well as learning to cope with or resolve intense emotional pain. I use this approach to treat complicated grief, trauma, panic, and related anxiety or depression.
Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), along with skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness, I help my clients identify and change ways of thinking and coping that may be impacting their mental health. This approach includes teaching coping skills that will target specific symptoms and triggers as well as learning to cope with or resolve intense emotional pain. I use this approach to treat complicated grief, trauma, panic, and related anxiety or depression.
![Photo of Melissa Berschauer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c871be29-40eb-4466-8f44-d5bb779ef9d7/2/320x400.png)
Melissa Berschauer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
Anxiety, Depression and Relationships: These are my top three specialties because when you think about it, most other issues have one of these at the root. The clients I work with come from all walks of life, each bringing their own unique set of experiences and needs. I love working with individuals and couples who are open to working as a team, enjoy a good sense of humor, and are open minded about the work we are doing together. I believe that these components are important aspects of what makes our therapeutic relationship successful, so I ensure I bring them into every session and encourage my clients to do the same!
Anxiety, Depression and Relationships: These are my top three specialties because when you think about it, most other issues have one of these at the root. The clients I work with come from all walks of life, each bringing their own unique set of experiences and needs. I love working with individuals and couples who are open to working as a team, enjoy a good sense of humor, and are open minded about the work we are doing together. I believe that these components are important aspects of what makes our therapeutic relationship successful, so I ensure I bring them into every session and encourage my clients to do the same!
![Photo of Jacquelin Tejeda, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fa1dc08-fd68-400f-9fea-b2daa441c47d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacquelin Tejeda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
My name is Jacquelin Tejeda and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California and have experience working with children, youth, adults, and families. I have been in the mental health field for 15 years. I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, phases of life issues, and more. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. My Experience and training entail evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused, and Mindfulness.
My name is Jacquelin Tejeda and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California and have experience working with children, youth, adults, and families. I have been in the mental health field for 15 years. I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, phases of life issues, and more. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. My Experience and training entail evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused, and Mindfulness.
![Photo of Michelle Funez Arteaga, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/152dd913-772a-4d8d-a3fb-1dd7bf488fbb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Funez Arteaga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the field of psychology. I enjoy working with people who are unsure about therapy as well as those experienced and enthusiastic. I specialize in helping you feel comfortable talking about the core issues that might be underlying the reasons for seeking therapy at a no-pressure pace.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the field of psychology. I enjoy working with people who are unsure about therapy as well as those experienced and enthusiastic. I specialize in helping you feel comfortable talking about the core issues that might be underlying the reasons for seeking therapy at a no-pressure pace.
See more therapy options for Rancho Santa Margarita
Nearby Searches for Rancho Santa Margarita
- Aliso Viejo
- Coto De Caza
- El Toro
- Foothill Ranch
- Ladera Ranch
- Laguna Hills
- Laguna Woods
- Lake Forest
- Mission Viejo
- San Juan Capistrano
- Silverado
- Trabuco Canyon
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
100+
Average cost per session
$170
Therapists in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
75% | Stress |
63% | Life Transitions |
62% | Relationship Issues |
62% | Coping Skills |
61% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | Elevance |
How Therapists in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
82% | Female | |
18% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Rancho Santa Margarita?
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.