Therapists in San Diego, CA
![Photo of Tajia Trone, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43aade79-62ef-495f-92aa-93504ac36dd1/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also specialize in extensive work in healing from emotional gaslighting, people pleasing, and codependency as well as reducing anxious thoughts.
I am a person-centered therapist who believes in tailoring therapy to her clients individual needs and believes in going into each session with an open mind allowing the client to take hold of each session. I believe in helping the client identify situations or behaviors that have contributed to their illnesses or struggles and together we work to change these behaviors and overcome challenges. I believe that therapy should include unconditional positive regard, compassion, genuineness, and understanding where the client is at. I specialize in working to improve individuals’ self-worth, self-esteem, and self-compassion.
I also specialize in extensive work in healing from emotional gaslighting, people pleasing, and codependency as well as reducing anxious thoughts.
I am a person-centered therapist who believes in tailoring therapy to her clients individual needs and believes in going into each session with an open mind allowing the client to take hold of each session. I believe in helping the client identify situations or behaviors that have contributed to their illnesses or struggles and together we work to change these behaviors and overcome challenges. I believe that therapy should include unconditional positive regard, compassion, genuineness, and understanding where the client is at. I specialize in working to improve individuals’ self-worth, self-esteem, and self-compassion.
![Photo of Melissa Houlston, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6fc8e837-70ee-45b6-9f64-4dfb9b0a76d9/1/320x400.png)
Melissa Houlston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
My specialties include LEOs, anxiety, depression, addiction, codependency, trauma, crisis resolution, grief, pregnancy/postpartum, and family/relational.
The thought of going to therapy can be overwhelming and scary, but it doesn't have to be. As your therapist, I will hold a safe space for you, free from judgement and provide plenty of support. This will be a place where you can heal from past traumas and/or present issues that are making you feel stuck. I will meet you where you are and only take you where you want to go. I have over eight years of experience in both mental health and hospital settings. I started my career as an ER Social Worker at CHOC and most recently was with the County of Orange providing psychological evaluations for suicidal and homicidal minors.
My specialties include LEOs, anxiety, depression, addiction, codependency, trauma, crisis resolution, grief, pregnancy/postpartum, and family/relational.
The thought of going to therapy can be overwhelming and scary, but it doesn't have to be. As your therapist, I will hold a safe space for you, free from judgement and provide plenty of support. This will be a place where you can heal from past traumas and/or present issues that are making you feel stuck. I will meet you where you are and only take you where you want to go. I have over eight years of experience in both mental health and hospital settings. I started my career as an ER Social Worker at CHOC and most recently was with the County of Orange providing psychological evaluations for suicidal and homicidal minors.
![Photo of Joanna Stan, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7af1e7fa-d93a-47ff-a3f7-fb53125f4ca4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Stan practices as a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY30834) in the state of California. Dr. Stan earned her Bachelor of Social Science from California State University, Chico, and her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Stan has been trained in CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic Therapies, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Solution-oriented, and Group Psychotherapy. Dr. Stan works primarily with adults. I typically work with adults with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, codependency, attachment wounds, first-generation status, substance use, LGBTQIA+, and bipolar disorder.
Dr. Stan practices as a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY30834) in the state of California. Dr. Stan earned her Bachelor of Social Science from California State University, Chico, and her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Stan has been trained in CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic Therapies, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Solution-oriented, and Group Psychotherapy. Dr. Stan works primarily with adults. I typically work with adults with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, codependency, attachment wounds, first-generation status, substance use, LGBTQIA+, and bipolar disorder.
![Photo of Katharine Rosas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/468939de-9024-458a-a2e7-585e4310b81e/1/320x400.png)
Katharine Rosas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
If you are experiencing ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Asperger's Syndrome, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Trauma and PTSD, I can help.
My goal as a therapist is to provide you with a safe environment to explore feelings, difficulties, coping skills, passions and personal goals. The goal of each therapy session is to assess and build insight, motivate and encourage with the ultimate goal to empower you to live a happy, successful, fulfilled life.
If you are experiencing ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Asperger's Syndrome, Codependency, Coping Skills, Depression, Trauma and PTSD, I can help.
My goal as a therapist is to provide you with a safe environment to explore feelings, difficulties, coping skills, passions and personal goals. The goal of each therapy session is to assess and build insight, motivate and encourage with the ultimate goal to empower you to live a happy, successful, fulfilled life.
![Photo of Nestor Carcache, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc3a3e87-a995-48f9-b75a-b97157ceb465/2/320x400.png)
My name is Nestor Carcache, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Orange County, California. I work with individuals, couples, families and specialize in anxiety, divorce, codependency, self-esteem, grief, depression, traumas, and addiction, using a variety of ecliptic therapy approaches as a guide to collaborate with clients to find solutions to their current struggles and learn healthier ways to cope with life challenges.
My name is Nestor Carcache, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Orange County, California. I work with individuals, couples, families and specialize in anxiety, divorce, codependency, self-esteem, grief, depression, traumas, and addiction, using a variety of ecliptic therapy approaches as a guide to collaborate with clients to find solutions to their current struggles and learn healthier ways to cope with life challenges.
![Photo of Lynnell Holtby, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dac114eb-6ce7-4284-923d-ed44108b2938/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome. My name is Lynnell Holtby, MFT 41129. My approach to therapy focuses on connecting with and meeting you from a heart-centered space and in union creating desired personal and life changes. I focus on the "whole" person, integrating spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional forms of well-being to help you develop a deeper understanding on all levels. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, codependency, self-worth, grief, and relational issues.
Welcome. My name is Lynnell Holtby, MFT 41129. My approach to therapy focuses on connecting with and meeting you from a heart-centered space and in union creating desired personal and life changes. I focus on the "whole" person, integrating spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional forms of well-being to help you develop a deeper understanding on all levels. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, codependency, self-worth, grief, and relational issues.
![Photo of Paul Wilcox, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8a593b3-5420-42f8-ba28-ad42cd149a8d/1/320x400.png)
I also have experience treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, other mood disorders, Codependency, marital/ relationship problems, dual diagnoses, alcohol and substance abuse, identity crises, life transitions, and more.
I have been working as a Marriage and Family Therapist and Professional Clinical Counselor since 2015. I’ve worked in a variety of settings, including Private Practice, group homes with wards of the State of CA, going into people’s homes to do therapy, and in trauma focused rehab and recovery programs. My foundation is client centered therapy which helps to create a safe, comfortable, non judgmental atmosphere. I also integrate various evidence based modalities into treatment, including CBT, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, MI, Strength Based, Gestalt, Existential, Gottman, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, and more
I also have experience treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, other mood disorders, Codependency, marital/ relationship problems, dual diagnoses, alcohol and substance abuse, identity crises, life transitions, and more.
I have been working as a Marriage and Family Therapist and Professional Clinical Counselor since 2015. I’ve worked in a variety of settings, including Private Practice, group homes with wards of the State of CA, going into people’s homes to do therapy, and in trauma focused rehab and recovery programs. My foundation is client centered therapy which helps to create a safe, comfortable, non judgmental atmosphere. I also integrate various evidence based modalities into treatment, including CBT, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, MI, Strength Based, Gestalt, Existential, Gottman, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, and more
![Photo of Kaitlyn Nelson, LCSW, ACP-EFT, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f072873f-c03c-4eb6-bcc8-a10f44a3aa97/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kaitlyn Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACP-EFT, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116
I am a Carlsbad based Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about empowering others to find their inner peace and self-worth. I describe my therapeutic style as warm, grounding, compassionate. My focus is on healing, processing, and building resilience with the intention to help you feel more confident about your future. My goal is to support you through symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief / loss, codependency, and post-traumatic stress. I work with preteens, teens, and adults who are committed to exploring their inner world to learn more about themselves and how they show up in their relationships with others.
I am a Carlsbad based Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about empowering others to find their inner peace and self-worth. I describe my therapeutic style as warm, grounding, compassionate. My focus is on healing, processing, and building resilience with the intention to help you feel more confident about your future. My goal is to support you through symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief / loss, codependency, and post-traumatic stress. I work with preteens, teens, and adults who are committed to exploring their inner world to learn more about themselves and how they show up in their relationships with others.
![Photo of Sarah Ray, PsyD, QME, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c81ef1c6-4b1e-43ae-ac74-e0e208e7d300/2/320x400.jpeg)
Now more than ever, it seems that so many of us are facing circumstances that make life stressful, confusing, and painful at times. The purpose of our work together is to help you live a healthier, happier, and more meaningful life. Whether you want to be a happier person, to have better relationships, or to simply understand yourself better, I can help you achieve this. I combine support, insight, and direction to help you have the skills to better manage your life, and obtain greater peace and joy. There is no greater privilege than helping a person improve their life, and I appreciate the opportunity to help you!
Now more than ever, it seems that so many of us are facing circumstances that make life stressful, confusing, and painful at times. The purpose of our work together is to help you live a healthier, happier, and more meaningful life. Whether you want to be a happier person, to have better relationships, or to simply understand yourself better, I can help you achieve this. I combine support, insight, and direction to help you have the skills to better manage your life, and obtain greater peace and joy. There is no greater privilege than helping a person improve their life, and I appreciate the opportunity to help you!
![Photo of Vanessa Villasenor, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45c495e0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Vanessa Villasenor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Currently accepting new clients at A Place of Growth. Welcome, my name is Vanessa Villasenor and I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist who has experience providing child, teen and adult therapy in San Diego. The first goal will be to create a safe and comfortable counseling environment to and it is important to find a therapist that will work with you and whom you feel comfortable with in order to make the most progress. I provide a variety of counseling environments and styles to address your needs and have experience working with military families including both active duty members as well as their family members.
Currently accepting new clients at A Place of Growth. Welcome, my name is Vanessa Villasenor and I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist who has experience providing child, teen and adult therapy in San Diego. The first goal will be to create a safe and comfortable counseling environment to and it is important to find a therapist that will work with you and whom you feel comfortable with in order to make the most progress. I provide a variety of counseling environments and styles to address your needs and have experience working with military families including both active duty members as well as their family members.
![Photo of Christina Elizabeth Ames-Cotto - Hope, Growth & Healing Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d9235ac-b5ae-4c55-9b36-a0bc19aea2cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hope, Growth & Healing Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121 (Online Only)
Offer Telehealth Only - Life provides happiness as well as its share of challenges. I believe individuals and couples are capable of navigating life but sometimes need a little extra help and compassion. Therapy can be that place where a person can discuss, learn and work through any past or present challenges that may be getting in the way of living a happy and hopeful life.
Offer Telehealth Only - Life provides happiness as well as its share of challenges. I believe individuals and couples are capable of navigating life but sometimes need a little extra help and compassion. Therapy can be that place where a person can discuss, learn and work through any past or present challenges that may be getting in the way of living a happy and hopeful life.
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![Photo of Rebecca Ballesteros, MS, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac2d948b-f7cb-4762-8c40-9cfb3a94adae/1/320x400.png)
Rebecca Ballesteros
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116 (Online Only)
Circumstances, life crisis, disability and past trauma can block our ability to achieve our goals and dreams. I am passionate about helping people overcome obstacles that are affecting their ability to live a fulfilling, purposeful and happy life. We all have dreams and a vision of what we want our life to look like. Whatever issue brings you to therapy, I am excited to help and guide you through the process of revealing those blocks, resolving unproductive behaviors, and developing healthy coping skills so you can live the life you imagine.
Circumstances, life crisis, disability and past trauma can block our ability to achieve our goals and dreams. I am passionate about helping people overcome obstacles that are affecting their ability to live a fulfilling, purposeful and happy life. We all have dreams and a vision of what we want our life to look like. Whatever issue brings you to therapy, I am excited to help and guide you through the process of revealing those blocks, resolving unproductive behaviors, and developing healthy coping skills so you can live the life you imagine.
![Photo of Serene Shibly, MA, APCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e256e7ed-1a1b-4b98-80a7-e3856fb7cfe5/2/320x400.png)
Serene Shibly
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92111 (Online Only)
I see clients through, AMALY, a nonprofit mental health organization that focuses on multicultural therapy. I have worked with a diverse age range from children, teenagers, all the way to older adults from many cultural backgrounds. I value incorporating various identities and roles her clients hold into her clinical work. I have a passion for women's issues and intergenerational trauma. I believe in breaking down barriers and stigma, connecting spirituality to mental health, and healing in nature.
I see clients through, AMALY, a nonprofit mental health organization that focuses on multicultural therapy. I have worked with a diverse age range from children, teenagers, all the way to older adults from many cultural backgrounds. I value incorporating various identities and roles her clients hold into her clinical work. I have a passion for women's issues and intergenerational trauma. I believe in breaking down barriers and stigma, connecting spirituality to mental health, and healing in nature.
![Photo of Sandra Milstein-Ostrom, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df8c4559-c1c6-4a49-85ed-f240eb68cdff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra Milstein-Ostrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92129 (Online Only)
Are you hurting or lonely and want to make some changes so you can feel better? Do you feel stuck in a life that doesn't seem to be going anywhere? Do you constantly worry about money, your weight, your sleep, your relationships, but things don't seem to change? Maybe others don't really know what's really going on inside of you. They all seem to have their act together, yet you don't. Are you tired of pretending that everything's fine, when inside you feel a deep sense that something is missing? Do you put yourself down, often blaming yourself for your troubles, yet being tough on yourself is not helping? Tired of being tired?
Are you hurting or lonely and want to make some changes so you can feel better? Do you feel stuck in a life that doesn't seem to be going anywhere? Do you constantly worry about money, your weight, your sleep, your relationships, but things don't seem to change? Maybe others don't really know what's really going on inside of you. They all seem to have their act together, yet you don't. Are you tired of pretending that everything's fine, when inside you feel a deep sense that something is missing? Do you put yourself down, often blaming yourself for your troubles, yet being tough on yourself is not helping? Tired of being tired?
![Photo of Annette Conway - Help Therapy | Mental Health Services, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT, NP, PNP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb8a48a5-dc58-4e91-b2a9-aa93a9f6f23b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Help Therapy | Mental Health Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT, NP, PNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
Help Therapy boasts a network of more than 150 licensed clinical psychologists, LCSWs, LMFTs, and NPs, spanning over 100 specialties and treatment areas. Services we provide including psychotherapy, psychological evaluations and psychiatric services. By completing an intake form on HelpTherapy.com, you'll be paired with a therapist tailored to your specific treatment requirements, insurance coverage, and location preferences. You have the flexibility to choose how you'd like to connect with your provider—whether in-person, online, or via phone.
Help Therapy boasts a network of more than 150 licensed clinical psychologists, LCSWs, LMFTs, and NPs, spanning over 100 specialties and treatment areas. Services we provide including psychotherapy, psychological evaluations and psychiatric services. By completing an intake form on HelpTherapy.com, you'll be paired with a therapist tailored to your specific treatment requirements, insurance coverage, and location preferences. You have the flexibility to choose how you'd like to connect with your provider—whether in-person, online, or via phone.
![Photo of Shelley Majors, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c74df3b-4f4f-4ff5-96c8-ffd4d8f6fc93/2/320x400.png)
My name is Shelley Majors, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with an office in Claremont, California. I see clients online or in person depending on their preference. I work with individual adults and couples interested in changing some aspect of their lives. I believe it’s important to find the therapeutic approach that fits for the client rather than having them adapt to a particular theoretical orientation. As a therapist who has been practicing for almost 30 years, I’ve trained on several theories but prefer a more eclectic approach which allows me to utilize whatever style seems to work for each client.
My name is Shelley Majors, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with an office in Claremont, California. I see clients online or in person depending on their preference. I work with individual adults and couples interested in changing some aspect of their lives. I believe it’s important to find the therapeutic approach that fits for the client rather than having them adapt to a particular theoretical orientation. As a therapist who has been practicing for almost 30 years, I’ve trained on several theories but prefer a more eclectic approach which allows me to utilize whatever style seems to work for each client.
![Photo of Kari Katzenmeier, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d0c9ab8-1fbb-4cc8-aa03-71614af58571/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you avoid the conflict to keep the peace you start a war inside yourself - Glennon Doyle. While this statement is SO true, many of us learned to avoid conflict as a way to protect ourselves from emotional pain. However, over time, that leads to the abandonment of your authentic self. The result may be mood difficulties, anxiety, depression, etc. I would be honored to help you unpack your story, find and heal the hurting places. Doing so empowers you to face and cope with conflict more effectively.
If you avoid the conflict to keep the peace you start a war inside yourself - Glennon Doyle. While this statement is SO true, many of us learned to avoid conflict as a way to protect ourselves from emotional pain. However, over time, that leads to the abandonment of your authentic self. The result may be mood difficulties, anxiety, depression, etc. I would be honored to help you unpack your story, find and heal the hurting places. Doing so empowers you to face and cope with conflict more effectively.
![Photo of Jessica A. Lopez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84a7bce4-8915-484f-af09-bcd9c3b1f563/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica A. Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
Are you feeling anxious or depressed because of work, a relationship, or your adult relationship with your parents? Do you want deeper connections or want to explore your attachment style? I'm Jessica, and I'm here to support you. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, also known as a connection reviver & hope restorer. As a Native American woman & transplant to San Diego, I believe we are capable of change. I specialize in helping individuals like you navigate the complexities of modern living, offering tailored support to address anxiety & depression, and guide you toward feeling better in yourself & in your relationships.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed because of work, a relationship, or your adult relationship with your parents? Do you want deeper connections or want to explore your attachment style? I'm Jessica, and I'm here to support you. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, also known as a connection reviver & hope restorer. As a Native American woman & transplant to San Diego, I believe we are capable of change. I specialize in helping individuals like you navigate the complexities of modern living, offering tailored support to address anxiety & depression, and guide you toward feeling better in yourself & in your relationships.
![Photo of Nasrin Vossough, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9803523c-ec5f-4054-9604-8e1c09ed9daf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nasrin Vossough is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 25 years of experience. I enjoy working with individuals 18 and older. I would like to help you to be more enthusiastic and optimistic about life. I enjoy working with adults overcoming life challenges and obstacles through mindfulness, relationship building, stress management, awerness, and much more.
Dr. Nasrin Vossough is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 25 years of experience. I enjoy working with individuals 18 and older. I would like to help you to be more enthusiastic and optimistic about life. I enjoy working with adults overcoming life challenges and obstacles through mindfulness, relationship building, stress management, awerness, and much more.
![Photo of Vanessa Tan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79263e5f-3af5-4107-a857-972e6095bf1c/1/320x400.png)
Hi! I'm Vanessa, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I'm a first generation immigrant based in San Diego, CA. Originally from South East Asia, I've worked and lived in Singapore, Taiwan, and Buffalo, NY. I love cooking, board game nights, heated blankets, and playing fetch with my dog! I love the story-telling of my clients - there's so much to be learned from the life experiences that we have, the minute details that stick with us after all these years, and the takeaways from each life circumstance.
Hi! I'm Vanessa, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I'm a first generation immigrant based in San Diego, CA. Originally from South East Asia, I've worked and lived in Singapore, Taiwan, and Buffalo, NY. I love cooking, board game nights, heated blankets, and playing fetch with my dog! I love the story-telling of my clients - there's so much to be learned from the life experiences that we have, the minute details that stick with us after all these years, and the takeaways from each life circumstance.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Aetna Therapists Searches for San Diego
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Aetna Therapists
Does insurance cover therapy, prescriptions and other behavioral health services?
In general, yes. Laws in the U.S. require insurers to cover essential behavioral health care at the same level as other health care services. Most health plans require a medical diagnosis and treatments that are evidence based and medically essential. This means that life coaching and alternative therapies are not covered, nor is therapy without a diagnosis. Call the number on the back or your insurance card or visit your insurance company's website to review your Summary of Benefits. If you have insurance through your employer, your Human Resources department may also be able to answer questions.
How much does therapy cost with insurance?
The cost of therapy depends on your region, how much training and experience your therapist has, and the type of treatment. The rate for talk therapy generally falls between $100 and $250. For a client seeing an in-network provider, the cost of therapy is often similar to the cost of other health care services. Clients pay co-pays and may need to satisfy a plan’s deductible before benefits kick in.
What is the difference between In-Network and Out-of-Network insurance coverage?
An in-network provider has contracted with an insurer to get paid directly for services, and to accept the insurer’s rate of compensation. Clients are responsible for deductibles and copays. If a therapist is out of network, that means that the client pays the therapist directly for services at the therapist’s regular fee. Out-of-Network providers often give clients a receipt so that they can file for partial reimbursement with their insurance company.
Is it difficult to find an In-Network therapist?
It is not unusual for therapists to limit the number of insurance patients in their practice, so it’s important to check in-network availability when you schedule your first appointment. In regions and times where therapy is in high demand it may take longer to get scheduled with an in-network therapist.
What is the difference between HMO and PPO insurance plans?
HMO health plans only cover in-network services, there is no reimbursement for out-of-network providers. PPO plans often cover both in- and out-of-network services, though the client may pay more for out-of-network services.
What is a Superbill?
A superbill is a receipt for therapy services. It provides all the information required by insurance companies to reimburse you for out-of-network services, including the diagnostic codes for your care, the amount paid, and the dates and duration of care.
Does insurance cover Online therapy?
Many therapists who shifted their practice to online therapy during the pandemic have kept that arrangement. And most insurers continue to cover telehealth services, with a few exceptions. Preventive care (such as an annual depression screening) is often required to be in-person to be covered, and some states require prescribers of controlled substances to see those patients in person.
Does insurance cover Group therapy?
Many insurance plans provide coverage for group therapy provided there is a medical diagnosis for group members, but there are some noteworthy exceptions. For example, Medicare does not always cover group therapy. Group therapy tends to cost less than individual therapy.
Does insurance cover Couples therapy?
Most insurance companies do not cover the cost of couples therapy because there is no medical diagnosis or medically necessary treatment. However, a few plans will offer a limited benefit, so it is still worth checking with your insurance company. Sometimes therapy is covered for a couple when one person has a diagnosis and another family member joins them for joint therapy, but it is considered therapy for the medical condition that includes a family member as a listener or helper, not couples counseling. Without insurance, most clients pay between $100-300 per 60-90 min session for couples therapy. Often clients can find classes or workshops that make it more affordable to work on their relationship. And some employers offer Employee Assistance Plans that help defray the cost of couples therapy.
What is an Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)?
Employee Assistance Plans are purchased by employers for the benefit of their employees. EAPs typically assist employees with referrals and may also provide the first few sessions of therapy free of charge, with the patient's regular health insurance kicking in after those initial sessions. EAP benefits often apply to all types of therapy without the need for a medical diagnosis, making it easier to access couples therapy, therapy for life transitions, and other non-medical counseling. Just as with standard health insurance, clients should always check that a provider accepts their EAP benefits before scheduling.
Learn more about Insurance Coverage and Finding Affordable Therapy
Learn more about Insurance Coverage and Finding Affordable Therapy