Therapists in Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA
![Photo of Maricela Gomez, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c60be3f4-92cd-4adb-9ad1-3d5534cb5c55/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maricela Gomez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131
Embarking on the journey of couples therapy is a profound step towards personal growth, healing, and strengthening the bond of your relationship. It requires courage to face the challenges within a relationship, and it's a journey that doesn't have to be navigated alone. As a therapist specializing in couples therapy and marriage counseling, I aim to be a beacon of hope and a steadfast source of support for both partners. At the core of my approach to couples therapy is a deep-seated belief in the power of empathy and human connection.
Embarking on the journey of couples therapy is a profound step towards personal growth, healing, and strengthening the bond of your relationship. It requires courage to face the challenges within a relationship, and it's a journey that doesn't have to be navigated alone. As a therapist specializing in couples therapy and marriage counseling, I aim to be a beacon of hope and a steadfast source of support for both partners. At the core of my approach to couples therapy is a deep-seated belief in the power of empathy and human connection.
![Photo of Debbie Cherry Lmft - Couples Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3672c022-aed6-468c-9bed-65692088c22c/2/320x400.png)
Debbie Cherry Lmft - Couples Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131
Remember when it felt like your partner got you better than anyone? It felt so good to be SEEN. Now, small disagreements turn into big arguments. Sometimes you don’t even know what you’re fighting about, but you keep ending up in the same painful patterns. Don’t let your defenses stand between you and your partner. If you would like support getting back on the same page, email me to book a free call.
Remember when it felt like your partner got you better than anyone? It felt so good to be SEEN. Now, small disagreements turn into big arguments. Sometimes you don’t even know what you’re fighting about, but you keep ending up in the same painful patterns. Don’t let your defenses stand between you and your partner. If you would like support getting back on the same page, email me to book a free call.
![Photo of Daniel Moultrie - California Couples Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fb7c4c2-50c4-4bad-a29b-60dee00cac7a/1/320x400.png)
California Couples Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131
Whether you are on the verge of separation or looking to improve your stable relationship, our therapists can support you in rediscovering the thriving relationship you deserve. As devoted couples therapists, we specialize in the Gottman Method, an evidence-based approach designed to strengthen and heal relationships. With a deep passion for guiding couples through their challenges, we create a supportive, non-judgmental space where both partners can feel heard and understood.
Whether you are on the verge of separation or looking to improve your stable relationship, our therapists can support you in rediscovering the thriving relationship you deserve. As devoted couples therapists, we specialize in the Gottman Method, an evidence-based approach designed to strengthen and heal relationships. With a deep passion for guiding couples through their challenges, we create a supportive, non-judgmental space where both partners can feel heard and understood.
![Photo of Stefan Paquet, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d856e9d6-3496-4966-b6ed-36c7d96d9b74/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stefan Paquet
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131
Navigating the ebbs and flows of relationships can often make life feel like an uphill battle. We encounter challenges not just in our connections but also at work, school, and within our minds, grappling with issues like depression, anxiety, or trauma. The challenge arises when our difficulties overshadow these joyful experiences. I’m committed to helping you find harmony and joy in your life. I aim to assist in managing and overcoming the hurdles within your relationships. I hold a firm belief in the capacity of each individual to achieve happiness and fulfillment, and I’m dedicated to guiding you toward realizing that potential.
Navigating the ebbs and flows of relationships can often make life feel like an uphill battle. We encounter challenges not just in our connections but also at work, school, and within our minds, grappling with issues like depression, anxiety, or trauma. The challenge arises when our difficulties overshadow these joyful experiences. I’m committed to helping you find harmony and joy in your life. I aim to assist in managing and overcoming the hurdles within your relationships. I hold a firm belief in the capacity of each individual to achieve happiness and fulfillment, and I’m dedicated to guiding you toward realizing that potential.
![Photo of Rene Huerta, MS, PPS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b37bd08-6a21-4e3e-9e61-a3a9bda77cb1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rene Huerta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, PPS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131
Whether you're facing communication challenges, navigating conflicts, or seeking to deepen your emotional bond, I aim to support you in creating a more fulfilling and loving partnership. I understand the importance of a supportive, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment for couples to feel safe and valued as they navigate their relationship. My goal is to ensure that our work together is collaborative, focusing on what matters most to you and your partner. With extensive experience in working with diverse populations and a wide range of relationship dynamics, I bring a wealth of knowledge to my practice.
Whether you're facing communication challenges, navigating conflicts, or seeking to deepen your emotional bond, I aim to support you in creating a more fulfilling and loving partnership. I understand the importance of a supportive, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment for couples to feel safe and valued as they navigate their relationship. My goal is to ensure that our work together is collaborative, focusing on what matters most to you and your partner. With extensive experience in working with diverse populations and a wide range of relationship dynamics, I bring a wealth of knowledge to my practice.
![Photo of Dr. Mandy Greaves, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/766b7573-7a94-4e02-b6fa-8aef00c7ba99/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Mandy Greaves
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131
I and am deeply committed to helping couples and individuals navigate the complexities of their relationships and personal lives. My practice is centered on providing empathic support and effective strategies primarily in Marriage Counseling and Couples Therapy. I specialize in addressing relationship issues, helping partners understand each other better, communicate more effectively, and resolve conflicts to strengthen their bond. My therapeutic approach is tailored to the unique needs of each couple, integrating various methods to foster deeper connections and mutual respect among partners.
I and am deeply committed to helping couples and individuals navigate the complexities of their relationships and personal lives. My practice is centered on providing empathic support and effective strategies primarily in Marriage Counseling and Couples Therapy. I specialize in addressing relationship issues, helping partners understand each other better, communicate more effectively, and resolve conflicts to strengthen their bond. My therapeutic approach is tailored to the unique needs of each couple, integrating various methods to foster deeper connections and mutual respect among partners.
![Photo of Rebecca Vanita Kunert, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/492f99fe-e1a3-4828-9e44-930ec02a749b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Vanita Kunert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131
Warm greetings! I appreciate the challenge of finding the "right" therapist for you. If you are concerned about your relationship, I am glad you are here. My approach is interactive with a focus of finding practical solutions for your concerns. I can teach you a variety of evidence-based communication tools. If you are a couple who desires more intimacy and better ways to resolve differences, I can assist you. I have completed Level 2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and provide a comprehensive online assessment for each couple, including a written summary. I offer direct feedback that fits your unique situation.
Warm greetings! I appreciate the challenge of finding the "right" therapist for you. If you are concerned about your relationship, I am glad you are here. My approach is interactive with a focus of finding practical solutions for your concerns. I can teach you a variety of evidence-based communication tools. If you are a couple who desires more intimacy and better ways to resolve differences, I can assist you. I have completed Level 2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and provide a comprehensive online assessment for each couple, including a written summary. I offer direct feedback that fits your unique situation.
![Photo of Tammie Makely, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff543681-0679-4a86-82dc-e4ccd2bd49f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tammie Makely
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131
Feeling overwhelmed in your relationship? Struggling to connect with your partner or to move past hurt and resentment? You're not alone. Many couples face insurmountable challenges, but there is hope and a way forward. As a specialist in couples therapy and marriage counseling, I'm dedicated to helping couples navigate the complexities of their relationships, rebuild trust, and deepen their connection. My expertise lies in guiding couples through the healing process, particularly after the pain of infidelity, using the Gottman Method — a research-based approach known for its effectiveness in improving marital satisfaction.
Feeling overwhelmed in your relationship? Struggling to connect with your partner or to move past hurt and resentment? You're not alone. Many couples face insurmountable challenges, but there is hope and a way forward. As a specialist in couples therapy and marriage counseling, I'm dedicated to helping couples navigate the complexities of their relationships, rebuild trust, and deepen their connection. My expertise lies in guiding couples through the healing process, particularly after the pain of infidelity, using the Gottman Method — a research-based approach known for its effectiveness in improving marital satisfaction.
![Photo of Molly S Mollin, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cfddfb4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Molly S Mollin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131 (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience working with adults, children, adolescents, and couples in a variety of settings. My approach involves warmth, honesty, insight, compassion, and humor. My philosophy is grounded in the core Humanistic principles of genuineness, empathy, and respect. Through my work, I have helped people from diverse backgrounds achieve improved health and move toward greater satisfaction in their lives and in themselves. I encourage individuals to tap into their own inherent strengths to find new, and more constructive, ways of navigating life's problems.
I have over 20 years of experience working with adults, children, adolescents, and couples in a variety of settings. My approach involves warmth, honesty, insight, compassion, and humor. My philosophy is grounded in the core Humanistic principles of genuineness, empathy, and respect. Through my work, I have helped people from diverse backgrounds achieve improved health and move toward greater satisfaction in their lives and in themselves. I encourage individuals to tap into their own inherent strengths to find new, and more constructive, ways of navigating life's problems.
![Photo of Fran Reich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ef718a2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Fran Reich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131 (Online Only)
Psychotherapy is about building relationships. In seeking a therapist, it's important to find one who "gets you"; is able to understand your unique way of relating to the world and to others in your life. My goal is to be accepting of who you are, to help you better understand patterns in your life that are holding you back. I seek to create an environment where you can develop trust, feel safe, respected, cared for. Psychotherapy can be scary and requires a commitment on the part of both the therapist and the client. Although the road is sometimes painful, we travel through it together.
Psychotherapy is about building relationships. In seeking a therapist, it's important to find one who "gets you"; is able to understand your unique way of relating to the world and to others in your life. My goal is to be accepting of who you are, to help you better understand patterns in your life that are holding you back. I seek to create an environment where you can develop trust, feel safe, respected, cared for. Psychotherapy can be scary and requires a commitment on the part of both the therapist and the client. Although the road is sometimes painful, we travel through it together.
![Photo of Lu Peyre, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6847f2e6-1240-47c0-ad3e-eb525eaf923d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lu Peyre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131
My role as a therapist is that of an empathetic co-pilot. I work in a client-centered way, and I will support you in creating healthy choices and new resources for yourself. My approach is compassionate, intuitive, and interactive. I strive to meet each client's personality and goals in a safe and welcoming environment. I am multilingual and multicultural. My various life experiences provide a base that will help me support you as we work together to meet your goals.
My role as a therapist is that of an empathetic co-pilot. I work in a client-centered way, and I will support you in creating healthy choices and new resources for yourself. My approach is compassionate, intuitive, and interactive. I strive to meet each client's personality and goals in a safe and welcoming environment. I am multilingual and multicultural. My various life experiences provide a base that will help me support you as we work together to meet your goals.
![Photo of Daniel Moultrie, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/668c8de7-2f53-4dee-932c-41d73ff78851/2/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel Moultrie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131
In a fast-paced world, relationships can suffer under stress, leading to a sense of disconnection. Embracing the Gottman Method, I specialize in couples therapy & marriage counseling, helping couples navigate complexities, re-establish communication, and rejuvenate their bond. Beginning the journey to a healthier partnership is a brave step. My role is to ease this process with an empathetic and practical approach. Recognizing the unique tapestry of each relationship, I apply evidence-based strategies to create a safe space for both partners to grow and reconnect.
In a fast-paced world, relationships can suffer under stress, leading to a sense of disconnection. Embracing the Gottman Method, I specialize in couples therapy & marriage counseling, helping couples navigate complexities, re-establish communication, and rejuvenate their bond. Beginning the journey to a healthier partnership is a brave step. My role is to ease this process with an empathetic and practical approach. Recognizing the unique tapestry of each relationship, I apply evidence-based strategies to create a safe space for both partners to grow and reconnect.
![Photo of Maryellen Jirak, MAED, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3da2dfac-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Maryellen Jirak
Counselor, MAED
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131
Powerful Change and Success Is Possible! If you're feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, frustrated and without hope that your child will ever learn and behave I can help. In a few short months your child can become more empowered in all areas of their life and more self accepting of their gifts in order to take challenges and turn them into assets. I will share with you proven techniques so you can achieve amazing high-impact results in your child's behavior, socialization skills, and school performance using the fewest steps in the shortest amount of time.
Powerful Change and Success Is Possible! If you're feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, frustrated and without hope that your child will ever learn and behave I can help. In a few short months your child can become more empowered in all areas of their life and more self accepting of their gifts in order to take challenges and turn them into assets. I will share with you proven techniques so you can achieve amazing high-impact results in your child's behavior, socialization skills, and school performance using the fewest steps in the shortest amount of time.
![Photo of Leilani Mitchell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cb90532-4d84-41e6-a58a-44ea36894322/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leilani Mitchell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131
Navigating the complexities of relationships and marriage can be challenging, often leaving couples feeling disconnected and misunderstood. As a therapist with a rich background in working across the lifespan—from infants to adults—I bring a deep sense of empathy and curiosity to understand your unique challenges. My goal is to help you and your partner explore and express your feelings and emotions, uncovering the root of disconnection and conflict, and fostering a deeper, more meaningful connection.
Navigating the complexities of relationships and marriage can be challenging, often leaving couples feeling disconnected and misunderstood. As a therapist with a rich background in working across the lifespan—from infants to adults—I bring a deep sense of empathy and curiosity to understand your unique challenges. My goal is to help you and your partner explore and express your feelings and emotions, uncovering the root of disconnection and conflict, and fostering a deeper, more meaningful connection.
![Photo of Matthew Chappell, LCSW, ACM-SW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/520638d9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matthew Chappell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACM-SW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131
I provide compassionate, calm, warm, collaborative, direct psychotherapy influenced by a variety of psychological modalities. I believe much may be accomplished through the trusted relationship between the therapist and a person in a safe, comfortable environment. And growth accomplished by an in-depth look at serious life experiences. I provider both brief and long term psychotherapy.
I provide compassionate, calm, warm, collaborative, direct psychotherapy influenced by a variety of psychological modalities. I believe much may be accomplished through the trusted relationship between the therapist and a person in a safe, comfortable environment. And growth accomplished by an in-depth look at serious life experiences. I provider both brief and long term psychotherapy.
![Photo of Dr. Rachel Coulter, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7810ae5a-cc9a-4a61-bf20-57b89c86e237/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Rachel Coulter
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131
Navigating the complexities of relationships can often feel overwhelming, leaving couples feeling stranded without a clear path forward. The challenges you face together may seem insurmountable. In my role as your therapist, I am here to accompany you on this journey, providing support and guidance to help you find healing and strengthen your bond along the way. With a strong foundation in couples therapy, I bring extensive experience in working with partners facing a wide array of challenges. My background includes supporting couples through complex trauma, co-occurring disorders, and the intricate dynamics of life.
Navigating the complexities of relationships can often feel overwhelming, leaving couples feeling stranded without a clear path forward. The challenges you face together may seem insurmountable. In my role as your therapist, I am here to accompany you on this journey, providing support and guidance to help you find healing and strengthen your bond along the way. With a strong foundation in couples therapy, I bring extensive experience in working with partners facing a wide array of challenges. My background includes supporting couples through complex trauma, co-occurring disorders, and the intricate dynamics of life.
![Photo of Jan Messer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/374766a5-05c5-4c33-98c8-8ad13d06ebfb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jan Messer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have been in private practice for over 35 years. I offer an in-depth, insightful, potent and integrative approach which blends Relational, Psychodynamic, Psychoanalytic, Jungian and Mindfulness orientations.
I have been in private practice for over 35 years. I offer an in-depth, insightful, potent and integrative approach which blends Relational, Psychodynamic, Psychoanalytic, Jungian and Mindfulness orientations.
![Photo of Christopher Kelm, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a17cee89-a408-45c3-b815-3ec4116bfb6f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Kelm
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131
My practice is dedicated to guiding couples and individuals through the complexities of their relationships, aiming to restore harmony and understanding where discord has taken root. My focus on couples therapy and marriage counseling are driven by a commitment to nurturing connections and fostering deeper bonds between partners.
My practice is dedicated to guiding couples and individuals through the complexities of their relationships, aiming to restore harmony and understanding where discord has taken root. My focus on couples therapy and marriage counseling are driven by a commitment to nurturing connections and fostering deeper bonds between partners.
![Photo of Victoria Julita Spiers, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fceded5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Julita Spiers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131
Waitlist for new clients
As a non-pathologizing humanistic-existential Gestalt therapist, I will meet you exactly where you are. I recognize that you are the expert of your own experience and that you already possess the skills that will aid you in healing your pain. As your empathic witness, advocate, and guide, I will help you increase your self-awareness, self-acceptance, and sense of agency. Essentially, I will help you re-examine your life and re-experience yourself and others, in different as well as new meaningful and healing ways. My approach is mindful, intuitive, and tenderhearted.
As a non-pathologizing humanistic-existential Gestalt therapist, I will meet you exactly where you are. I recognize that you are the expert of your own experience and that you already possess the skills that will aid you in healing your pain. As your empathic witness, advocate, and guide, I will help you increase your self-awareness, self-acceptance, and sense of agency. Essentially, I will help you re-examine your life and re-experience yourself and others, in different as well as new meaningful and healing ways. My approach is mindful, intuitive, and tenderhearted.
![Photo of Dr. Clifton Hicks, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8a7bbb1-390d-4244-aa52-277b3c045877/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Clifton Hicks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA 94131
Traumatic experiences and adverse events are common. If left untreated, trauma can affect your ability to feel safe, trust others and feel hopeful about your future throughout the life-cycle. It can also affect your ability to form healthy relationships at home, at school or work and in the community, too. Many clients are unable to identify, verbalize or explain their trauma, allowing movement to be the primary way to process. Comprehensive and innovative trauma-sensitive treatment approaches are available that can improve not only your overall general functioning, but improve your overall health and sense of wellbeing, too.
Traumatic experiences and adverse events are common. If left untreated, trauma can affect your ability to feel safe, trust others and feel hopeful about your future throughout the life-cycle. It can also affect your ability to form healthy relationships at home, at school or work and in the community, too. Many clients are unable to identify, verbalize or explain their trauma, allowing movement to be the primary way to process. Comprehensive and innovative trauma-sensitive treatment approaches are available that can improve not only your overall general functioning, but improve your overall health and sense of wellbeing, too.
See more therapy options for Diamond Heights, San Francisco
Nearby Searches for Diamond Heights, San Francisco
- Bernal Heights
- Castro
- Castro-Upper Market
- Cole Valley
- Glen Park
- Inner Sunset
- Noe Valley
- Outer Mission
- Saint Francis Wood
- Twin Peaks
- West Of Twin Peaks
- West Portal
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA
30+
Average cost per session
$200
Therapists in Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
90% | Anxiety |
87% | Relationship Issues |
81% | Self Esteem |
77% | Family Conflict |
74% | Coping Skills |
74% | Codependency |
Average years in practice
18 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
56% | Aetna |
56% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
56% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Diamond Heights, San Francisco, CA see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
66% | Female | |
31% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Diamond Heights, San Francisco?
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.