Therapists in California
![Photo of Holly Pelz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13b7851c-88b7-4a4e-bcdf-a1ed5ea05b84/2/320x400.jpeg)
When I think about what brings you here, I imagine there's something in your life causing you pain or overwhelm. I have found, both personally and professionally, that often when we're experiencing big emotions, we're sitting with them alone. It takes a great deal of courage to reach out and ask for help, and it's an honor and privilege for me to come alongside you as you seek to feel and heal.
When I think about what brings you here, I imagine there's something in your life causing you pain or overwhelm. I have found, both personally and professionally, that often when we're experiencing big emotions, we're sitting with them alone. It takes a great deal of courage to reach out and ask for help, and it's an honor and privilege for me to come alongside you as you seek to feel and heal.
![Photo of Beverly Kramer, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ceca315f-f1e8-4969-abe8-7931f091291a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beverly Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316
I work with children, teens, and adults who have experienced issues with life adjustments, anxiety, depression. I also have extensive experience navigating the hardships of chronic illness, specifically Type 1 Diabetes. I believe in the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can feel heard and validated. Overall, it is my intent to be a compassionate therapist who is dedicated to helping my clients heal, grow, and thrive. I am committed to providing person-centered care that recognizes the whole person and the importance of the mind-body connection.
I work with children, teens, and adults who have experienced issues with life adjustments, anxiety, depression. I also have extensive experience navigating the hardships of chronic illness, specifically Type 1 Diabetes. I believe in the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can feel heard and validated. Overall, it is my intent to be a compassionate therapist who is dedicated to helping my clients heal, grow, and thrive. I am committed to providing person-centered care that recognizes the whole person and the importance of the mind-body connection.
![Photo of Ann Anderson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/442d6554-7738-4d4f-aa3c-3b26aa6680f8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
![Photo of Elizabeth Wolfson, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a75452e-3942-4ff3-a6c1-9a73c6be0b68/2/320x400.jpeg)
When choosing a therapist, experience matters. As a seasoned psychotherapist, scholar, and consultant with substantial training, I know there is no set formula for you and your situation. My holistic approach includes attention to your unique circumstance and goals including emotional, spiritual, and psychological health from a mind, body, spirit, perspective. There is no substitute for working with a professional who is fully attentive and present to what you are bringing to the experience, whom you can trust in helping you meet your goals and enhance your life quality.
When choosing a therapist, experience matters. As a seasoned psychotherapist, scholar, and consultant with substantial training, I know there is no set formula for you and your situation. My holistic approach includes attention to your unique circumstance and goals including emotional, spiritual, and psychological health from a mind, body, spirit, perspective. There is no substitute for working with a professional who is fully attentive and present to what you are bringing to the experience, whom you can trust in helping you meet your goals and enhance your life quality.
![Photo of Margaret V Austin, PhD, BCN, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7417316-c38a-4782-aac3-d38233831c29/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling to find your footing in this difficult new world of ours? Life continues to change and its up to each of us to regroup. I work with clients in the midst of change who are overwhelmed by the demands on their lives from work, school, relationships, or life itself. I see children who have difficulty focusing in school, performing their best, or getting along with others. When children have problems, parents need support too! Families improve when children and parents work together. I also see adults with trouble sleeping, thinking clearly, or reaching goals.
Are you struggling to find your footing in this difficult new world of ours? Life continues to change and its up to each of us to regroup. I work with clients in the midst of change who are overwhelmed by the demands on their lives from work, school, relationships, or life itself. I see children who have difficulty focusing in school, performing their best, or getting along with others. When children have problems, parents need support too! Families improve when children and parents work together. I also see adults with trouble sleeping, thinking clearly, or reaching goals.
![Photo of Braxton Vance Tyrell Tynes, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb5a74e3-e08c-410d-9259-5eace2af19c7/3/320x400.jpeg)
Braxton Vance Tyrell Tynes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
First things first, I appreciate that you were willing to give me a chance by looking at my biography. I know that therapy can be hard to explore and even harder to commit to but I’ll be here to support you through your journey. Life can be challenging and there is often this pressure that we need to have everything figured out and that we are not allowed to struggle. But that struggle can show us how resilient we really can be.
First things first, I appreciate that you were willing to give me a chance by looking at my biography. I know that therapy can be hard to explore and even harder to commit to but I’ll be here to support you through your journey. Life can be challenging and there is often this pressure that we need to have everything figured out and that we are not allowed to struggle. But that struggle can show us how resilient we really can be.
![Photo of Takako J Ainsworth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c034d92-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with individuals with a focus on Jungian Depth Psychotherapy. Patients in my practice often feel a sense of being lost, stuck feeling empty, and confused and are looking for something to unlock the keys to their difficulties. These can be challenging times with today’s fast pace, with a daily influx of information and rapid changes in technology that make it difficult for us to find the truth and our best interest sometimes. The difficulties may manifest in depression, anxiety, or other somatic symptoms.
I specialize in working with individuals with a focus on Jungian Depth Psychotherapy. Patients in my practice often feel a sense of being lost, stuck feeling empty, and confused and are looking for something to unlock the keys to their difficulties. These can be challenging times with today’s fast pace, with a daily influx of information and rapid changes in technology that make it difficult for us to find the truth and our best interest sometimes. The difficulties may manifest in depression, anxiety, or other somatic symptoms.
![Photo of Dr. Kelly Smith, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0991144b-15c4-4191-ac64-4699d82a46e6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you ready to start getting past your trauma and PTSD? Not sure where to start? I am here to help. If you struggle with sleep, dreams of being back there, are unable to get your brain to shut down and relax, and have feelings of shame, guilt, anger, and numbness, difficulty trusting.…you were not prepared for this. Images of that thing, those people, or that feeling pop into your head. They may teach you how to do your job, but not how to deal with the fallout. You can be ok when you are with others who understand, but when you have to go home you may feel like you are alone or are not good enough for your family.
Are you ready to start getting past your trauma and PTSD? Not sure where to start? I am here to help. If you struggle with sleep, dreams of being back there, are unable to get your brain to shut down and relax, and have feelings of shame, guilt, anger, and numbness, difficulty trusting.…you were not prepared for this. Images of that thing, those people, or that feeling pop into your head. They may teach you how to do your job, but not how to deal with the fallout. You can be ok when you are with others who understand, but when you have to go home you may feel like you are alone or are not good enough for your family.
![Photo of Phil Takakjian, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1032a586-9a7d-403f-b59b-d67f57c0159c/2/320x400.jpeg)
We begin by telling our story. We go at a slower pace than usual and we pay special attention to the emotionally important parts of the story, e.g., talking to our mother, worrying about work, conflict in a relationship, etc. Here we pause and direct our attention to our abdomen and ask, “How do/did I feel about this or that or him or her?” Then we wait. We don’t rush to answer the question with our heads, we wait for an answer to slowly arise from our bodies. We are bypassing our intellectual defenses and asking our bodies what’s really going on.
We begin by telling our story. We go at a slower pace than usual and we pay special attention to the emotionally important parts of the story, e.g., talking to our mother, worrying about work, conflict in a relationship, etc. Here we pause and direct our attention to our abdomen and ask, “How do/did I feel about this or that or him or her?” Then we wait. We don’t rush to answer the question with our heads, we wait for an answer to slowly arise from our bodies. We are bypassing our intellectual defenses and asking our bodies what’s really going on.
![Photo of Iesenia Meza, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/989c1804-9a01-4b45-92cc-81a8d51b2ca3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Iesenia Meza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lemoore, CA 93245 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Well, hello there! Deciding to come to therapy can be one of the most challenging things in life, especially during those difficult times when everything seems so heavy. But taking the first step, pursuing care, is the most powerful step. It means you're ready to sit with someone and begin the exploration process of what you're experiencing or going through, whether it's in the past, present, or future. Therapy is an effective place to begin the healing process and create a new way of living life. And finding the right therapist is just as important.
Well, hello there! Deciding to come to therapy can be one of the most challenging things in life, especially during those difficult times when everything seems so heavy. But taking the first step, pursuing care, is the most powerful step. It means you're ready to sit with someone and begin the exploration process of what you're experiencing or going through, whether it's in the past, present, or future. Therapy is an effective place to begin the healing process and create a new way of living life. And finding the right therapist is just as important.
![Photo of Breffni Barrett, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c51e60f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My approach to therapy is to meet with the person, couple or family, to assess the issues and see if we can problem solve together. Former clients have described me as warm, competent, compassionate and effective as a therapist. I have been licensed as a psychologist and marriage and family therapist for more than 30 years, and have served as an expert witness as a forensic psychologist. I have been trained in mediation and worked with family businesses. My service to my profession includes being President of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists and Treasurer of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. I believe we are here to help one another, and look forward to working with you.
My approach to therapy is to meet with the person, couple or family, to assess the issues and see if we can problem solve together. Former clients have described me as warm, competent, compassionate and effective as a therapist. I have been licensed as a psychologist and marriage and family therapist for more than 30 years, and have served as an expert witness as a forensic psychologist. I have been trained in mediation and worked with family businesses. My service to my profession includes being President of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists and Treasurer of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. I believe we are here to help one another, and look forward to working with you.
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![Photo of Tina Lynam, JD, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ee19c32-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tina Lynam
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
I work with a diverse population with varying goals. For some it is to work through their anxiety and depression, and for others it is to work through their current struggles with relationships, parenting, career or loss of a loved one. I help clients understand how they want to live, and to explore, meet and overcome their challenges. My relationship with each client is unique and an important part of therapy. I incorporate different types of treatment and work from an inclusive perspective of each client's own experience. I meet with clients in my office, offer walking sessions in the park and sessions via Zoom.
I work with a diverse population with varying goals. For some it is to work through their anxiety and depression, and for others it is to work through their current struggles with relationships, parenting, career or loss of a loved one. I help clients understand how they want to live, and to explore, meet and overcome their challenges. My relationship with each client is unique and an important part of therapy. I incorporate different types of treatment and work from an inclusive perspective of each client's own experience. I meet with clients in my office, offer walking sessions in the park and sessions via Zoom.
![Photo of Veronica Ghabour, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccc9c394-d425-4006-89b8-63ac0cc200e0/2/320x400.png)
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
![Photo of Paul Sullivan, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e84e67ed-2074-4008-b4fa-d8ad9bc3ce72/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am dedicated to looking at the whole person to identify thematic issues that manifest themselves in different emotional, relational, or behavior patterns that take away from the richness or fullness of life. I focus on the root of the problem to promote lasting change, growth and healing. In treating the whole person, I address issues related to nutrition, sleep, exercise, and brain functioning as well as the more typical personality, family, and social concerns. You can count on more than just talk.
I am dedicated to looking at the whole person to identify thematic issues that manifest themselves in different emotional, relational, or behavior patterns that take away from the richness or fullness of life. I focus on the root of the problem to promote lasting change, growth and healing. In treating the whole person, I address issues related to nutrition, sleep, exercise, and brain functioning as well as the more typical personality, family, and social concerns. You can count on more than just talk.
![Photo of Angela Snelling, MA , LPCC , LMHC, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6e02200-aa62-4011-b1d7-d8cffe8d4da8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Snelling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA , LPCC , LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704 (Online Only)
I believe that the core of successful psychotherapy lies in creating a safe place for you to talk about things that are truly important in your life. I am currently an online psychotherapist with over 20 years of clinical experience. I draw from various evidence-based approaches to provide personalized therapy that meets your unique needs. While we cannot always avoid the challenges that arise in our life, we do have a choice how to address them. I believe that there is much to learn from these struggles and that by facing them we create opportunity for making enduring changes in our life.
I believe that the core of successful psychotherapy lies in creating a safe place for you to talk about things that are truly important in your life. I am currently an online psychotherapist with over 20 years of clinical experience. I draw from various evidence-based approaches to provide personalized therapy that meets your unique needs. While we cannot always avoid the challenges that arise in our life, we do have a choice how to address them. I believe that there is much to learn from these struggles and that by facing them we create opportunity for making enduring changes in our life.
![Photo of Naomi Lewis Afriat, LCSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5141ea32-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Naomi Lewis Afriat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90035
I'm a Licensed Certified Social Worker with many years of clinical experience, currently licensed in CA, FL, NJ and NY. The focus of my work is with betrayed partners (of sex addicts). Most of my clients approach me trying to understand and process the trauma that they have suffered. For many patients, their recent trauma, is not their first. Patients often tell me that I’m so easy to talk to and that they feel comfortable and validated when working with me. In helping my clients understand their trauma, and the dynamics around it, I work gently and carefully, while ensuring comfort and safety as we talk about these difficult topics
I'm a Licensed Certified Social Worker with many years of clinical experience, currently licensed in CA, FL, NJ and NY. The focus of my work is with betrayed partners (of sex addicts). Most of my clients approach me trying to understand and process the trauma that they have suffered. For many patients, their recent trauma, is not their first. Patients often tell me that I’m so easy to talk to and that they feel comfortable and validated when working with me. In helping my clients understand their trauma, and the dynamics around it, I work gently and carefully, while ensuring comfort and safety as we talk about these difficult topics
![Photo of Gina Vance, CMHT, CCHT, RBT, CLC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/216db5fc-da45-4d3c-b4d5-08e368506943/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you've been journeying into self discovery and growth and are ready for a gentle quantum leap into your unique power, beauty and ability to express and collaborate with your multi-dimensional self, consider the potential rewards of learning to quickly and easily journey into your mind and body to explore, encounter and understand ways you can heal the pain of your despair and serve your highest purpose in fulfilling ways.
Our work together will honor all aspects of you and all experiences you have endured and survived, as you successfully close completed chapters and author new satisfying successes.
If you've been journeying into self discovery and growth and are ready for a gentle quantum leap into your unique power, beauty and ability to express and collaborate with your multi-dimensional self, consider the potential rewards of learning to quickly and easily journey into your mind and body to explore, encounter and understand ways you can heal the pain of your despair and serve your highest purpose in fulfilling ways.
Our work together will honor all aspects of you and all experiences you have endured and survived, as you successfully close completed chapters and author new satisfying successes.
![Photo of Christopher Koelln, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de1a6629-ad16-4e7b-8a0b-86f5c2658bbc/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and owner of C&K Counseling services in the state of California and am dedicated to helping Veterans and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and substance use. I have provided mental health services since 2014 with training and experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as being trained in Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and owner of C&K Counseling services in the state of California and am dedicated to helping Veterans and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and substance use. I have provided mental health services since 2014 with training and experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as being trained in Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
![Photo of Nathalie Torres, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98d68e4a-b1cb-4c8f-a857-2507fbca943e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nathalie Torres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whittier, CA 90602 (Online Only)
I have a deep passion for helping adults with OCD, emetophobia, specific phobias, anxiety, and body-focused repetitive behaviors. Maybe you have noticed that your fears and worries have created various challenges for you. Or that there are certain behaviors that are difficult to stop. Many feel alone and stuck with what may feel like never-ending thoughts and distressing emotions. What might make it more difficult is being unable to talk about your experiences with your loved ones due to feeling embarrassed or judged, but you deserve to live a life where you no longer feel controlled by your intrusive thoughts and emotions.
I have a deep passion for helping adults with OCD, emetophobia, specific phobias, anxiety, and body-focused repetitive behaviors. Maybe you have noticed that your fears and worries have created various challenges for you. Or that there are certain behaviors that are difficult to stop. Many feel alone and stuck with what may feel like never-ending thoughts and distressing emotions. What might make it more difficult is being unable to talk about your experiences with your loved ones due to feeling embarrassed or judged, but you deserve to live a life where you no longer feel controlled by your intrusive thoughts and emotions.
![Photo of Angela Amaral, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a5e1d4a-5dad-4409-abc5-8126588f9e6b/1/320x400.png)
Angela Amaral
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Modesto, CA 95356
Hi, I’m Angela, a Marriage Family Therapist. Therapy can be a vulnerable process, but when we open up to another person, growth and healing can begin. Everyone has a story and deserves to be able to share and process it. I approach clients as human beings and not as symptoms. I facilitate conversations to help you understand your struggles, analyze the root, and how they have affected your life. Every client comes with their own unique perspectives and strengths, and I value their story.
Hi, I’m Angela, a Marriage Family Therapist. Therapy can be a vulnerable process, but when we open up to another person, growth and healing can begin. Everyone has a story and deserves to be able to share and process it. I approach clients as human beings and not as symptoms. I facilitate conversations to help you understand your struggles, analyze the root, and how they have affected your life. Every client comes with their own unique perspectives and strengths, and I value their story.
See more therapy options for California
How does your Therapist compare?
Average cost per session
$175
Therapists in California who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
75% | Relationship Issues |
72% | Self Esteem |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | Coping Skills |
64% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
68% | Aetna |
61% | Cigna and Evernorth |
56% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in California see their clients
68% | In Person and Online | |
32% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in California?
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.