Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA

Photo of Anthony Paul Martello, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Anthony Paul Martello
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Are you afraid, confused, or struggling with your relationships? I work with client(s) dealing with interpersonal issues and communication challenges. It may be a husband and wife re-defining their roles with life changes, or an individual considering a career change. The problem often reveals itself at the surface when arguing and verbal conflict ensue, but the source of the problem needs a deeper adjustment, such as adjusting roles or providing more support for a family member. Regardless, clear communication usually allows the individual, couple, or family to achieve the goal of collaboration and compromise.
Are you afraid, confused, or struggling with your relationships? I work with client(s) dealing with interpersonal issues and communication challenges. It may be a husband and wife re-defining their roles with life changes, or an individual considering a career change. The problem often reveals itself at the surface when arguing and verbal conflict ensue, but the source of the problem needs a deeper adjustment, such as adjusting roles or providing more support for a family member. Regardless, clear communication usually allows the individual, couple, or family to achieve the goal of collaboration and compromise.
(805) 608-4102 View (805) 608-4102
Photo of Margaret Shepard-Moore, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Shepard-Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Whether it's your relationships with others, your relationship with food or alcohol, healing past wounds so you can move past the "stuck," feelings of anxiety, depression, self-doubt, or something else, I'm here to help. Utilizing a variety of evidence-based techniques, we will work together to overcome the issues and challenges getting in the way of you living a life you want and deserve.
Whether it's your relationships with others, your relationship with food or alcohol, healing past wounds so you can move past the "stuck," feelings of anxiety, depression, self-doubt, or something else, I'm here to help. Utilizing a variety of evidence-based techniques, we will work together to overcome the issues and challenges getting in the way of you living a life you want and deserve.
(805) 420-7832 View (805) 420-7832
Photo of Caroline Cerussi, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Caroline Cerussi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Let’s be real, change is hard! But staying stuck in a cycle of pain and overthinking is harder. Are you feeling ready to cut through the noise and get to the heart of the matter? If you're someone who's been analyzing, overthinking, constantly wanting to feel better but struggling to know where to start, I'm here to help. I believe analysis and awareness is an important step, but we can’t always out-think our problems or solely focus on the source of the issue. I'm about action, results, and helping you move forward in a safe space. I'll combine empathy with a push to uncover your blind spots so you can make positive change.
Let’s be real, change is hard! But staying stuck in a cycle of pain and overthinking is harder. Are you feeling ready to cut through the noise and get to the heart of the matter? If you're someone who's been analyzing, overthinking, constantly wanting to feel better but struggling to know where to start, I'm here to help. I believe analysis and awareness is an important step, but we can’t always out-think our problems or solely focus on the source of the issue. I'm about action, results, and helping you move forward in a safe space. I'll combine empathy with a push to uncover your blind spots so you can make positive change.
(805) 723-3076 View (805) 723-3076
Photo of Paula Defrisco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paula Defrisco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
I am a San Luis Obispo therapist working extensively with adolescents, college students, adults and couples who struggle with relationship issues or who have experienced sexual abuse or domestic violence in their lives. I have also helped numerous clients struggling with depression or anxiety. I am practical and supportive in my approach. My focus has always been trauma work, and I feel great respect and admiration for my clients who have allowed me to be part of their journey to gain feelings of empowerment in their lives. Please click on my website for more information about my practice.
I am a San Luis Obispo therapist working extensively with adolescents, college students, adults and couples who struggle with relationship issues or who have experienced sexual abuse or domestic violence in their lives. I have also helped numerous clients struggling with depression or anxiety. I am practical and supportive in my approach. My focus has always been trauma work, and I feel great respect and admiration for my clients who have allowed me to be part of their journey to gain feelings of empowerment in their lives. Please click on my website for more information about my practice.
(805) 918-4816 View (805) 918-4816
Photo of Debra Muse, PsyD, Psychologist
Debra Muse
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
You don't have to solve life's difficulties and navigate personal changes alone! I will work with you in a collaborative, supportive and safe environment to help you to feel better about yourself and your life. We can identify what is not "working"/problem areas as well as what is "working"/your strengths and move toward the positive changes you would like in your self and your life!
You don't have to solve life's difficulties and navigate personal changes alone! I will work with you in a collaborative, supportive and safe environment to help you to feel better about yourself and your life. We can identify what is not "working"/problem areas as well as what is "working"/your strengths and move toward the positive changes you would like in your self and your life!
(805) 283-6178 View (805) 283-6178
Photo of Alyn Bartick, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alyn Bartick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Now is the time to remove the barriers to the life you desire. Using a supportive, strength-based, and straightforward approach, I will guide you to the more richly experienced life you deserve. I offer solution-focused sessions that achieve results quickly. From our first meetings, you will be less stuck and more prepared to move forward. After more than twenty-five years, I continue to find immense joy in helping clients to live healthy lives filled with meaning and contentment.
Now is the time to remove the barriers to the life you desire. Using a supportive, strength-based, and straightforward approach, I will guide you to the more richly experienced life you deserve. I offer solution-focused sessions that achieve results quickly. From our first meetings, you will be less stuck and more prepared to move forward. After more than twenty-five years, I continue to find immense joy in helping clients to live healthy lives filled with meaning and contentment.
(805) 246-9493 View (805) 246-9493
Photo of Berthena Parrish, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Berthena Parrish
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
For over 30 years I have had the honor of working with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. My goal is to offer genuine compassion and understanding. Together we will look and what is not working for you right now and what change you hope for. Together we explore your needs and collaboratively come up with a plan for your therapy. I will support you in setting personal goals, developing healthy coping skills and learning effective communication.
For over 30 years I have had the honor of working with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. My goal is to offer genuine compassion and understanding. Together we will look and what is not working for you right now and what change you hope for. Together we explore your needs and collaboratively come up with a plan for your therapy. I will support you in setting personal goals, developing healthy coping skills and learning effective communication.
(805) 244-5843 View (805) 244-5843
Photo of Sarah Whitmore Boe, MA, SUDCC, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sarah Whitmore Boe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, SUDCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Are your habits getting in the way of living your best life? Do you consider yourself a "functioning" substance user? Maybe you are ready to change but 12-step programs or rehab are not for you. My approach is coaching-based, and solution focused. Sessions focus on authentic self-discovery, recognizing and removing patterns that are keeping you stuck, setting realistic goals, and developing strategy to achieve them. I work well with individuals in a transition period of their lives, and with those who are motivated to make a change. I will help you develop a plan and accountability.
Are your habits getting in the way of living your best life? Do you consider yourself a "functioning" substance user? Maybe you are ready to change but 12-step programs or rehab are not for you. My approach is coaching-based, and solution focused. Sessions focus on authentic self-discovery, recognizing and removing patterns that are keeping you stuck, setting realistic goals, and developing strategy to achieve them. I work well with individuals in a transition period of their lives, and with those who are motivated to make a change. I will help you develop a plan and accountability.
(805) 429-6428 View (805) 429-6428
Photo of Jennifer Kalusa, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Kalusa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
My name is Jen Kalusa, I'm an LMFT, and I specialize in working with adults looking for support in navigating traumatic experiences, relationships, self-discovery, and complex emotions. I believe each person has within them what they need to heal and to have emotional health and healthy relationships. I use a trauma-informed approach and am trained in EMDR, Flash technique, and havening to support individuals who are stuck because of a past trauma. I use parts work and Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals to help them heal and move toward experiencing secure, meaningful connection.
My name is Jen Kalusa, I'm an LMFT, and I specialize in working with adults looking for support in navigating traumatic experiences, relationships, self-discovery, and complex emotions. I believe each person has within them what they need to heal and to have emotional health and healthy relationships. I use a trauma-informed approach and am trained in EMDR, Flash technique, and havening to support individuals who are stuck because of a past trauma. I use parts work and Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals to help them heal and move toward experiencing secure, meaningful connection.
(805) 429-6223 View (805) 429-6223
Photo of Melissa Monji, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Monji
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Are you at a crossroads in your life, or in your relationship? Failing to meet your goals, or possibly just struggling to make your relationships with friends and family work? Do you wake up in the morning feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Or maybe it just feels like there is more to life than how you are currently living yours. If you answered yes to any of these questions, please know you are not the only one experiencing these types of challenges, and I would be happy to support you, as an individual or couple, in your efforts to remove whatever barriers may be standing in the way of reaching your goals.
Are you at a crossroads in your life, or in your relationship? Failing to meet your goals, or possibly just struggling to make your relationships with friends and family work? Do you wake up in the morning feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Or maybe it just feels like there is more to life than how you are currently living yours. If you answered yes to any of these questions, please know you are not the only one experiencing these types of challenges, and I would be happy to support you, as an individual or couple, in your efforts to remove whatever barriers may be standing in the way of reaching your goals.
(805) 774-1142 View (805) 774-1142
Photo of Ryan Morris Hampton, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ryan Morris Hampton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Since 2013, I have supported individuals working through addiction, trauma, homelessness, family conflict, domestic violence, personality disorders, and a wide variety of mental health challenges. I enjoy working with people of every demographic and identity expression, and I am especially passionate about working with teens and young adults, African American and multiracial individuals and families, as well as the neurodivergent community. I assist my clients in creating the life story they want to live, by building self-understanding, practicing self-acceptance, and developing their unique personal strengths.
Since 2013, I have supported individuals working through addiction, trauma, homelessness, family conflict, domestic violence, personality disorders, and a wide variety of mental health challenges. I enjoy working with people of every demographic and identity expression, and I am especially passionate about working with teens and young adults, African American and multiracial individuals and families, as well as the neurodivergent community. I assist my clients in creating the life story they want to live, by building self-understanding, practicing self-acceptance, and developing their unique personal strengths.
(805) 941-3537 View (805) 941-3537
Photo of Dara Sheik, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dara Sheik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
Dara's psychotherapy practice is dedicated to helping young adults work through challenges related to this phase of life. Young adulthood is a time of great opportunities related to building satisfying relationships, careers and establishing one's own path. Along the way many get stuck in indecision, doubts and fears. For others, stress and unresolved issues can lead to mental health challenges including depression, anxiety and addictions. Expectations of others and culture can contribute to the pressures and sense of isolation. Working collaboratively with his patients, Dara brings empathy and compassion to work.
Dara's psychotherapy practice is dedicated to helping young adults work through challenges related to this phase of life. Young adulthood is a time of great opportunities related to building satisfying relationships, careers and establishing one's own path. Along the way many get stuck in indecision, doubts and fears. For others, stress and unresolved issues can lead to mental health challenges including depression, anxiety and addictions. Expectations of others and culture can contribute to the pressures and sense of isolation. Working collaboratively with his patients, Dara brings empathy and compassion to work.
(805) 307-7066 View (805) 307-7066
Photo of Isaiah Moore - ConnectUs, MA, BA
ConnectUs
MA, BA
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Imagine a thriving business struggling with high employee turnover, low morale, and inefficient processes. The leadership team feels overwhelmed by these complex issues and seeks solutions to enhance productivity, boost employee satisfaction, and streamline operations. They want to create a positive work environment where their team can excel and achieve long-term success. Their ultimate goal is to transform their workplace into a hub of innovation and engagement, ensuring sustained growth and competitive advantage.
Imagine a thriving business struggling with high employee turnover, low morale, and inefficient processes. The leadership team feels overwhelmed by these complex issues and seeks solutions to enhance productivity, boost employee satisfaction, and streamline operations. They want to create a positive work environment where their team can excel and achieve long-term success. Their ultimate goal is to transform their workplace into a hub of innovation and engagement, ensuring sustained growth and competitive advantage.
(805) 973-6872 View (805) 973-6872
Photo of Michael Scherbinski, PhD, Psychologist
Michael Scherbinski
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Prometheus Psychological Services offers a full range of outpatient psychological services. The services include psychological assessment and a variety of therapies. People use our services for depression, anxiety, and problems in relationships. Treatment can also be utilized to address anger, marital conflict, and low self-esteem. Work with children and adolescents can focus on behavior problems at home and at school, developmental disabilities, and attention deficit disorders. We can also tailor programs for individuals with learning disabilities and problems with daily living. Many athletes are turning to us to help them reach their peak performance. Together we can develop a specific program tailored to your particular sport and your unique strengths and weaknesses. Our services can help athletes manage anxiety, develop relaxation techniques, and enhance leadership skills. Others have sought our services for help with a lack of consistency, to address difficulty maintaining focus, or to aid with recovery from injury. We can assist with goal setting, confidence, and visualizing yourself being successful, in an attempt to help you reach your full potential.
Prometheus Psychological Services offers a full range of outpatient psychological services. The services include psychological assessment and a variety of therapies. People use our services for depression, anxiety, and problems in relationships. Treatment can also be utilized to address anger, marital conflict, and low self-esteem. Work with children and adolescents can focus on behavior problems at home and at school, developmental disabilities, and attention deficit disorders. We can also tailor programs for individuals with learning disabilities and problems with daily living. Many athletes are turning to us to help them reach their peak performance. Together we can develop a specific program tailored to your particular sport and your unique strengths and weaknesses. Our services can help athletes manage anxiety, develop relaxation techniques, and enhance leadership skills. Others have sought our services for help with a lack of consistency, to address difficulty maintaining focus, or to aid with recovery from injury. We can assist with goal setting, confidence, and visualizing yourself being successful, in an attempt to help you reach your full potential.
(805) 749-2742 View (805) 749-2742
Photo of Becky Sznejkowski, PsyD, Psychologist
Becky Sznejkowski
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step" - Lao Tzu. Having the courage to work on yourself to reach your full potential does not have to happen alone. As a psychologist and cancer survivor, I've experienced physical and emotional challenges that led to positive and healthy lifestyle changes. I hope to use these experiences to help others on their journey with emotional issues, chronic medical conditions, grief, life transition issues, or those who want to improve nutrition and lifestyle. I hope to walk this journey with you in order to facilitate growth and healing.
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step" - Lao Tzu. Having the courage to work on yourself to reach your full potential does not have to happen alone. As a psychologist and cancer survivor, I've experienced physical and emotional challenges that led to positive and healthy lifestyle changes. I hope to use these experiences to help others on their journey with emotional issues, chronic medical conditions, grief, life transition issues, or those who want to improve nutrition and lifestyle. I hope to walk this journey with you in order to facilitate growth and healing.
(805) 246-9521 View (805) 246-9521
Photo of Aleksandra Marinovic, PsyD, Psychologist
Aleksandra Marinovic
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Thank you for considering me as a potential partner in your journey of healing & self-discovery. I have over 14 yrs. of clinical experience in the mental health field working primarily with adults & college-age students struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, family/relationship problems, trauma, life-transitions, personal growth, & self-acceptance. I was born and raised in Europe & am open to also working with clients who are from a wide range of countries & are experiencing difficulties in adjusting to life in the U.S. I am warm, caring, non-judgmental, & able to provide you a safe space to address today's stressors.
Thank you for considering me as a potential partner in your journey of healing & self-discovery. I have over 14 yrs. of clinical experience in the mental health field working primarily with adults & college-age students struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, family/relationship problems, trauma, life-transitions, personal growth, & self-acceptance. I was born and raised in Europe & am open to also working with clients who are from a wide range of countries & are experiencing difficulties in adjusting to life in the U.S. I am warm, caring, non-judgmental, & able to provide you a safe space to address today's stressors.
(858) 434-8137 View (858) 434-8137
Photo of Marina Resa, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marina Resa
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
The needs of others come before your own? Sometimes, as children, we fundamentally altered who we were to adjust to trauma, role-reversals, and cold parenting. This can create an underdeveloped sense of self or we are sensitive the slightest shifts in the moods of others. Relationships are scary. When happiness finally starts to seep in, an overwhelming fear sets in that it will all collapse & disappear.
The needs of others come before your own? Sometimes, as children, we fundamentally altered who we were to adjust to trauma, role-reversals, and cold parenting. This can create an underdeveloped sense of self or we are sensitive the slightest shifts in the moods of others. Relationships are scary. When happiness finally starts to seep in, an overwhelming fear sets in that it will all collapse & disappear.
(323) 643-6026 View (323) 643-6026
Photo of Kim Richards, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kim Richards
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
My practice focuses on supporting adolescents, young adults, and adults dealing with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions, relationship issues, stress management, and other mental health concerns. I enjoy working with teens and supporting them in navigating the unique complexities associated with this life phase. I also work with families to help create bridges of communication and understanding between teens and their parents. I am a strong believer in the importance of joyful movement, mindfulness, social connection, and nutrition to help us reach our optimal state of well-being.
My practice focuses on supporting adolescents, young adults, and adults dealing with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions, relationship issues, stress management, and other mental health concerns. I enjoy working with teens and supporting them in navigating the unique complexities associated with this life phase. I also work with families to help create bridges of communication and understanding between teens and their parents. I am a strong believer in the importance of joyful movement, mindfulness, social connection, and nutrition to help us reach our optimal state of well-being.
(805) 291-4492 View (805) 291-4492
Photo of Serena Andrews, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Serena Andrews
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
As a therapist, I help people in the San Luis Obispo community navigate life changes and find balance, emotional health and mental well-being. Whether you’re facing a recent shift, past trauma, grief or loss, my goal is to provide a supportive environment for exploration and emotional healing. Additionally, I strive to build healthy relationships with my clients and equip them with self-care resources that can provide support during therapy and beyond. Therapy can offer both immediate and long-lasting results. I am also available to offer therapy to anyone in the state of California through confidential tele-therapy.
As a therapist, I help people in the San Luis Obispo community navigate life changes and find balance, emotional health and mental well-being. Whether you’re facing a recent shift, past trauma, grief or loss, my goal is to provide a supportive environment for exploration and emotional healing. Additionally, I strive to build healthy relationships with my clients and equip them with self-care resources that can provide support during therapy and beyond. Therapy can offer both immediate and long-lasting results. I am also available to offer therapy to anyone in the state of California through confidential tele-therapy.
(805) 316-7412 View (805) 316-7412
Photo of Desiree Troxell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Desiree Troxell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Welcome to wellness. You have taken the first step toward exploring your full potential. Embarking on a path of self discovery enables you to unearth your hopes for yourself, your relationships, and your future. Authenticity, communication, forgiveness, love and humor are essential to living a healthy life. Knowing yourself allows you to have healthier relationships with your family, friends and colleagues. I have experience helping people who are encountering grief, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, marital difficulties, life transitions, family conflict, relationship conflict, stress, self harm, and substance abuse.
Welcome to wellness. You have taken the first step toward exploring your full potential. Embarking on a path of self discovery enables you to unearth your hopes for yourself, your relationships, and your future. Authenticity, communication, forgiveness, love and humor are essential to living a healthy life. Knowing yourself allows you to have healthier relationships with your family, friends and colleagues. I have experience helping people who are encountering grief, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, marital difficulties, life transitions, family conflict, relationship conflict, stress, self harm, and substance abuse.
(805) 219-7934 View (805) 219-7934
1
...

See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA

400+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Trauma and PTSD
76% Self Esteem
67% Coping Skills
65% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

50% Aetna
38% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
37% Other

How Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
17% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in San Luis Obispo?

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

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.

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.

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.