Therapists in Lees Summit, MO
![Photo of Cheryl Mark, PhD, MA, LPC, NCC, BCN, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34ef02c2-5dbb-4214-a62a-fda50740ab04/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cheryl Mark
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LPC, NCC, BCN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64064
Most people are doing the best they can in life with the skills they have available. When life becomes overwhelming, unbearable, or unfulfilling, counseling can help you find & experience the joy & love you desire - even in the face of adversity. Counseling can be helpful when you are ready to make changes in your life and when you desire someone to journey with you to realize your best self. In our work together, we will collaborate to set goals that you want to achieve. For some, this may be a change in how you are thinking and feeling. For others, you might be ready to work to find deeper healing through processing your trauma.
Most people are doing the best they can in life with the skills they have available. When life becomes overwhelming, unbearable, or unfulfilling, counseling can help you find & experience the joy & love you desire - even in the face of adversity. Counseling can be helpful when you are ready to make changes in your life and when you desire someone to journey with you to realize your best self. In our work together, we will collaborate to set goals that you want to achieve. For some, this may be a change in how you are thinking and feeling. For others, you might be ready to work to find deeper healing through processing your trauma.
![Photo of Karanita B Boling, LCSW-S, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ddab73e-1e75-401d-bd66-216aa83c638f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karanita B Boling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LSCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64064
I'm a Compassionate, Caring, Trauma Informed, Holistic and Client Centered Clinician. Neurodivergent Welcoming! I believe being "Mentally Healthy" means having the energy to live life to the fullest, being content and having serenity to face life's everyday challenges. No one chooses to feel tired, fearful, anxious, sad or depressed. I am certified in Motivational Interviewing, EMDR Basic & advanced skills and training in CBT, DBT, and ACT to help you find the goals to your best life. I accept clients 8yrs old through Geriatric (99+). I have active duty Military and First Responder experience.
I'm a Compassionate, Caring, Trauma Informed, Holistic and Client Centered Clinician. Neurodivergent Welcoming! I believe being "Mentally Healthy" means having the energy to live life to the fullest, being content and having serenity to face life's everyday challenges. No one chooses to feel tired, fearful, anxious, sad or depressed. I am certified in Motivational Interviewing, EMDR Basic & advanced skills and training in CBT, DBT, and ACT to help you find the goals to your best life. I accept clients 8yrs old through Geriatric (99+). I have active duty Military and First Responder experience.
![Photo of Alexandra Echelmeier, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c97c4b25-c6da-4826-9f52-258c56e708b5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra Echelmeier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64082 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Ready to shift from the heavy weight of overwhelm, anxiety, depression &/or trauma into a place of freedom & empowerment where you feel ALIVE (instead of just existing)? Awesome! Although starting therapy might feel like a serious & heavy thing—it does not have to be. It can be a safe space to lean into embracing curiosity, getting creative, learning coping skills, & reconnecting with your core self. It can look like taking this messy middle that you feel stuck in & working together to untangle the mess to make sense of what is in the present while reconnecting to your WHOLE self: resiliency, strengths, values, & all!
Ready to shift from the heavy weight of overwhelm, anxiety, depression &/or trauma into a place of freedom & empowerment where you feel ALIVE (instead of just existing)? Awesome! Although starting therapy might feel like a serious & heavy thing—it does not have to be. It can be a safe space to lean into embracing curiosity, getting creative, learning coping skills, & reconnecting with your core self. It can look like taking this messy middle that you feel stuck in & working together to untangle the mess to make sense of what is in the present while reconnecting to your WHOLE self: resiliency, strengths, values, & all!
![Photo of Pamela Wine - Pamela Wine, MA/NCC, LPC, RPT, EdS, PCIT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf5903cf-7d5a-4671-96b7-08a73a916766/3/320x400.jpeg)
Pamela Wine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA/NCC, LPC, RPT, EdS, PCIT
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64064
Play is the place where children’s minds, hearts, and souls meet. Through Play Therapy, children are able to heal from distressing events such as, but not limited to, trauma, grief and loss, divorce, depression, adoption, foster care and attachment issues; and to improve in myriad areas such as impulse control, emotional regulation, ADHD, OCD, and ODD. As your child’s therapist, my goal is to enable children to heal, so that they are empowered to “rise and shine” to their highest potential.
Play is the place where children’s minds, hearts, and souls meet. Through Play Therapy, children are able to heal from distressing events such as, but not limited to, trauma, grief and loss, divorce, depression, adoption, foster care and attachment issues; and to improve in myriad areas such as impulse control, emotional regulation, ADHD, OCD, and ODD. As your child’s therapist, my goal is to enable children to heal, so that they are empowered to “rise and shine” to their highest potential.
![Photo of Katie Wheeler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6968e58-0df3-4665-82bc-c6220a1031a5/2/320x400.png)
Learning how to heal can be difficult, especially if you have tried to do so all on your own! . My goal is to be genuine, and to give you a cozy space to heal in the ways that you find most helpful. I am here to start where you are, empowering you to become the person that you have always wanted to be, no matter the barriers.
Learning how to heal can be difficult, especially if you have tried to do so all on your own! . My goal is to be genuine, and to give you a cozy space to heal in the ways that you find most helpful. I am here to start where you are, empowering you to become the person that you have always wanted to be, no matter the barriers.
![Photo of Jeremy Lotz, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/615303b1-7cc4-45a5-9211-ff759fee6755/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeremy Lotz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64063
I'm an Individual & Family Therapist licensed since 2005. My background includes 12 years (2005-2017) working full-time in long-term inpatient programs for teens as a therapist & training director before I opened a private practice in 2017. My advanced training allows me to treat a broad scope of issues but I don't pretend to specialize in everything! Specializing only in: 1) Teens / Young adults, 2) Parenting & 3) Christian counseling. I have 20+ years of student ministry & ministry leadership experience. My career in residential care has trained me to treat the toughest challenges teens, young adults, & families can face.
I'm an Individual & Family Therapist licensed since 2005. My background includes 12 years (2005-2017) working full-time in long-term inpatient programs for teens as a therapist & training director before I opened a private practice in 2017. My advanced training allows me to treat a broad scope of issues but I don't pretend to specialize in everything! Specializing only in: 1) Teens / Young adults, 2) Parenting & 3) Christian counseling. I have 20+ years of student ministry & ministry leadership experience. My career in residential care has trained me to treat the toughest challenges teens, young adults, & families can face.
![Photo of Jeri Sullivant, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53fbb792-e5ee-43a2-9d67-13b967d25ae5/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that every person is a worthy individual created to experience joy and meaningful relationships. My goal is to help you cultivate a life of peace and purpose rather than chaos and despair. I believe in working hard and laughing harder during the therapeutic process as we all flail our way to health and wellness together.
I believe that every person is a worthy individual created to experience joy and meaningful relationships. My goal is to help you cultivate a life of peace and purpose rather than chaos and despair. I believe in working hard and laughing harder during the therapeutic process as we all flail our way to health and wellness together.
![Photo of Megan Mulheron, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a39d062-c2a1-4ef7-bfd4-5630a98ef168/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Mulheron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64064
Wounds often shape our life's choices without our knowledge of their presence. Life is hard and these wounds can wear on us over time. Are you unsure if you're struggling with an addiction and you feel like your substance may be wreaking havoc on your life and your relationships? It takes courage to ask for help. I can meet you where you are and we can explore this together in an environment that is free of shame and judgement. Successful therapy involves a collaborative relationship where clients risk to uncover wounds and challenge unhelpful family structures.
Wounds often shape our life's choices without our knowledge of their presence. Life is hard and these wounds can wear on us over time. Are you unsure if you're struggling with an addiction and you feel like your substance may be wreaking havoc on your life and your relationships? It takes courage to ask for help. I can meet you where you are and we can explore this together in an environment that is free of shame and judgement. Successful therapy involves a collaborative relationship where clients risk to uncover wounds and challenge unhelpful family structures.
![Photo of Madelyn Hershberger, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8aae2847-7430-4a21-a717-d2ca96122b0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Madelyn Hershberger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64081
Life can feel overwhelming, exhausting, and heavy at times. Symptoms of anxiety and depression can affect all areas of life and feel so isolating. If you have experienced trauma in your past or are in a new role or relationship and struggling to adjust and cope, having space and time set aside to care for your mental health is so beneficial and worth it. If you are looking for relief, and wanting to get to the root of what is feeling so challenging for you, I would love to partner with you on that journey.
Life can feel overwhelming, exhausting, and heavy at times. Symptoms of anxiety and depression can affect all areas of life and feel so isolating. If you have experienced trauma in your past or are in a new role or relationship and struggling to adjust and cope, having space and time set aside to care for your mental health is so beneficial and worth it. If you are looking for relief, and wanting to get to the root of what is feeling so challenging for you, I would love to partner with you on that journey.
![Photo of Kimberly Williams, MS, LCMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/094eed57-87c9-46ca-9c5d-6788f66f7380/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64063
Now accepting new clients! Hi, I'm Kimberly and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist located in Downtown Lee's Summit. I work with both individuals and couples. I see clients age 17 and up that may be struggling with depression, anxiety, difficult relationship dynamics, grief & loss, stress & burnout, or life transitions such as high school seniors, college students, young professionals, pre-marital couples, expecting and new parents. I am trained in EMDR, which may be helpful in healing from trauma and other experiences that have been difficult to move past.
Now accepting new clients! Hi, I'm Kimberly and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist located in Downtown Lee's Summit. I work with both individuals and couples. I see clients age 17 and up that may be struggling with depression, anxiety, difficult relationship dynamics, grief & loss, stress & burnout, or life transitions such as high school seniors, college students, young professionals, pre-marital couples, expecting and new parents. I am trained in EMDR, which may be helpful in healing from trauma and other experiences that have been difficult to move past.
![Photo of Tiffany Ash, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1d2eb43-c30d-4ec6-a58c-b98e75d1001e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany Ash
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64063 (Online Only)
You may be feeling overwhelmed by waves of difficult emotions—from fear and worry to profound sadness and depression—or just numb, disconnected from yourself and the world around you. These experiences can make it difficult to get through daily life and make us feel powerless to improve things. Although it may be hard to see, there is hope, and there is help. I want you to know that you have the strength and courage to face these challenges and live the life you want. I am here to deeply listen to your story, understand your struggles, and partner with you on your healing journey.
You may be feeling overwhelmed by waves of difficult emotions—from fear and worry to profound sadness and depression—or just numb, disconnected from yourself and the world around you. These experiences can make it difficult to get through daily life and make us feel powerless to improve things. Although it may be hard to see, there is hope, and there is help. I want you to know that you have the strength and courage to face these challenges and live the life you want. I am here to deeply listen to your story, understand your struggles, and partner with you on your healing journey.
15 Second Videos
Cheryl Mark
Alexandra Echelmeier
Jeri Sullivant
Lis Klemme
Angelique Foye-Fletcher
Katlin Huskey - Accepting New Clients!
Sarah Josephson
Abby Moog
Meredith Gardner
Wendy Hawkins
Shelley Clayton Duality Therapy
Jonathan Kindler
Kelly Shaw
Emily Duggan- Accepting New Clients
Ivy Pellerito
Kali Boydston
Cara Gruhala
Ayleen Gomez Lopez
Tarissa Helms - Accepting New Clients!
Rick Aldred
Sophia Palmerin - Accepting New Clients!
Tricia L Beach
Harlee Stocker
Hannah K Sholar
Summit Ridge Counseling Group
Kathy Susan Cherney
Krista Gomez Gonzalez
Josh O’Hora
Michele Deeter Accepting New Clients
Kimberly Clark Winsor
Jamie E Skyta
Donna K Burgess
Luke Partain
Jeremy Allan Fowler
Rachael Julstrom
KC Life Counseling
Angela Stevens
Diana Hughes Counseling LLC
Heartland Therapy Connection
Christina Wilson
Whitney Davison
LaShandra Shepard
Curtis James Kolle
Luke Allen
Paul Carlisle
Katie McCurter
Shara A McGlothan
Diane Kathleen Morgan
Melinda Bonham Couple And Family Therapist
Sharree Jensen
![Photo of Erin Bell, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fdcc0d32-2886-40bb-a2db-8896c8721056/1/320x400.jpeg)
I see a variety of clients in various life situations and complexities, and I view the space you share with me an honor and privilege. It’s a big step in committing to understanding what's happening for you and reaching out for help. I respect your desire for understanding yourself and the situation you're in, for a deeper level of self-reflection, and a desire for implementing change. You're already doing hard work right now searching for the right fit, and in valuing personal growth and investing in yourself by reaching out. I look forward to connecting with you. I am committed to walking alongside of you every step of the way!
I see a variety of clients in various life situations and complexities, and I view the space you share with me an honor and privilege. It’s a big step in committing to understanding what's happening for you and reaching out for help. I respect your desire for understanding yourself and the situation you're in, for a deeper level of self-reflection, and a desire for implementing change. You're already doing hard work right now searching for the right fit, and in valuing personal growth and investing in yourself by reaching out. I look forward to connecting with you. I am committed to walking alongside of you every step of the way!
![Photo of Lis Klemme, MSCP, CIT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7c61c1e-8cb8-413b-92d9-27f07bf5f48f/2/320x400.jpeg)
This life is hard to navigate. As a therapist I am passionate about walking alongside clients in the process of healing from their past, establishing boundaries in the present, and finding their sense of purpose and fulfillment for their future. I love working with clients who are neuro-divergent and client's who have experienced trauma in their childhood. I also love working with people of all ages such as children, adolescents, adults, and couples.
This life is hard to navigate. As a therapist I am passionate about walking alongside clients in the process of healing from their past, establishing boundaries in the present, and finding their sense of purpose and fulfillment for their future. I love working with clients who are neuro-divergent and client's who have experienced trauma in their childhood. I also love working with people of all ages such as children, adolescents, adults, and couples.
![Photo of Ashley Elder, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1b9e608-9975-46b9-9fd5-f78be71b8b5b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Elder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64081
As a therapist deeply dedicated to helping adolescents, young children, and families navigate challenging circumstances and cultivate resilience, I specialize in supporting individuals coping with trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and self-injurious behaviors. Collaboration with parents and caregivers is central to my practice, as I believe in strengthening family bonds and empowering adolescents to take ownership of their treatment journey. By fostering hope, enhancing safety, and building resilience, I aim to guide individuals and families towards a life filled with purpose and fulfillment.
As a therapist deeply dedicated to helping adolescents, young children, and families navigate challenging circumstances and cultivate resilience, I specialize in supporting individuals coping with trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and self-injurious behaviors. Collaboration with parents and caregivers is central to my practice, as I believe in strengthening family bonds and empowering adolescents to take ownership of their treatment journey. By fostering hope, enhancing safety, and building resilience, I aim to guide individuals and families towards a life filled with purpose and fulfillment.
![Photo of Dr. Susan L. Waldo, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6fdc1826-f785-4843-b8cc-a6586d9aec52/4/320x400.jpeg)
For 30yrs, I have had the distinct privilege of working with hundreds of traumatized clients, couples, & fellow mental health professionals. Though many are shattered by grave emotional injuries, they find a way to rise up, face themselves and others, heal bravely, and transform their lives. With my clients, I hope to forge a close, safe, & collaborative relationship where clients may achieve significant emotional growth. To do so, clients & I identify treatment strategies that heal wounds, resolve symptoms, change behaviors, cultivate a strong voice, revive joy, engage authenticity, & support courageous, wholehearted living.
For 30yrs, I have had the distinct privilege of working with hundreds of traumatized clients, couples, & fellow mental health professionals. Though many are shattered by grave emotional injuries, they find a way to rise up, face themselves and others, heal bravely, and transform their lives. With my clients, I hope to forge a close, safe, & collaborative relationship where clients may achieve significant emotional growth. To do so, clients & I identify treatment strategies that heal wounds, resolve symptoms, change behaviors, cultivate a strong voice, revive joy, engage authenticity, & support courageous, wholehearted living.
Adrienne Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64082 (Online Only)
Are you feeling down, burdened, or uncertain about your place in life? I understand those emotions deeply: the constant comparison, the stress, and the endless scrolling on social media to escape. It can feel like a relentless cycle. But you don't have to endure it any longer. Together, we can explore techniques to greatly diminish these feelings. I've helped people manage anxiety, depression, and self-comparison, guiding them towards a life filled with more peace, contentment, and a sense of control.
Are you feeling down, burdened, or uncertain about your place in life? I understand those emotions deeply: the constant comparison, the stress, and the endless scrolling on social media to escape. It can feel like a relentless cycle. But you don't have to endure it any longer. Together, we can explore techniques to greatly diminish these feelings. I've helped people manage anxiety, depression, and self-comparison, guiding them towards a life filled with more peace, contentment, and a sense of control.
![Photo of Isabella Hess, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84e3e26e-5b0f-4982-bc52-e1d1ddfec720/1/320x400.jpeg)
I consider the therapeutic relationship as one of the most important processes to your healing journey. Whether you’re feeling too overwhelmed with life, struggling to overcome past experiences, feeling depleted self-esteem, or experiencing relational issues, I'm here to help you overcome these difficult challenges in order to create a more positive life. I work with a diverse clientele of children, adolescents, and young adults facing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, life transitions, and interpersonal problems.
I consider the therapeutic relationship as one of the most important processes to your healing journey. Whether you’re feeling too overwhelmed with life, struggling to overcome past experiences, feeling depleted self-esteem, or experiencing relational issues, I'm here to help you overcome these difficult challenges in order to create a more positive life. I work with a diverse clientele of children, adolescents, and young adults facing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, life transitions, and interpersonal problems.
![Photo of Madeline Cramer, MA, LPC, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/151a45b1-60de-4fc6-9adc-3c97c5c6b5a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I want to help clients get relief and know that they are not alone. Whether that relief is from anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or from relationship issues, we can work together. You might be surprised at how your strengths start to show! I can give you invaluable information and skills that can positively impact your daily life. I care deeply for my clients and restore hope. Together, we overcome your unique struggles to reveal a new life outlook. With your specific concerns, I can show you relief and ways to not have them continuously interfere in your life.
I want to help clients get relief and know that they are not alone. Whether that relief is from anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or from relationship issues, we can work together. You might be surprised at how your strengths start to show! I can give you invaluable information and skills that can positively impact your daily life. I care deeply for my clients and restore hope. Together, we overcome your unique struggles to reveal a new life outlook. With your specific concerns, I can show you relief and ways to not have them continuously interfere in your life.
![Photo of Angelique Foye-Fletcher, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bf3e8ed-a848-4583-9411-3cc9a2943635/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you a people-pleasing adult who wants to break free from self-doubt and overthinking? Do you often feel "stuck" in your relationships, family, work and other life areas? Have you ever felt "misunderstood" by your colleagues, friends, and family members? Everybody has a story to tell. I am curious to hear your story.
Are you a people-pleasing adult who wants to break free from self-doubt and overthinking? Do you often feel "stuck" in your relationships, family, work and other life areas? Have you ever felt "misunderstood" by your colleagues, friends, and family members? Everybody has a story to tell. I am curious to hear your story.
![Photo of Foss Mckay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d8153d7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you are facing a new crisis in your life or feeling stuck with old feelings and behaviors, therapy can be a useful tool to help you move on with your life. Utilizing a direct and thoughtful approach, I will help you find coping strategies to deal with the immediate stressor, but also help you identify underlying patterns and issues so you can make long-term and lasting changes. I work with a range of clients from adults to adolescents and help people with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and crisis situations.
Whether you are facing a new crisis in your life or feeling stuck with old feelings and behaviors, therapy can be a useful tool to help you move on with your life. Utilizing a direct and thoughtful approach, I will help you find coping strategies to deal with the immediate stressor, but also help you identify underlying patterns and issues so you can make long-term and lasting changes. I work with a range of clients from adults to adolescents and help people with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and crisis situations.
See more therapy options for Lees Summit
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Lees Summit, MO
200+
Average cost per session
$125
Therapists in Lees Summit, MO who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
83% | Depression |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Relationship Issues |
72% | Self Esteem |
67% | Coping Skills |
65% | Stress |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
81% | Aetna |
69% | Cigna and Evernorth |
62% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Lees Summit, MO see their clients
81% | In Person and Online | |
19% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
82% | Female | |
18% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Lees Summit?
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.