Therapists in Fort Walton Beach, FL
![Photo of Colleen L Wenner, MA, LMHC, MCAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22af7a41-2388-42d0-8d23-703338d58059/1/320x400.jpeg)
We want the most life has to offer. At times, circumstances, habits and trauma does not serve us well.... we wake up to find we aren't where we thought. If you're here, you are not alone. Colleen’s compassion, honesty, knowledge and transparency enables you to uncover your own abilities to cope, heal, and move through challenges. Colleen’s strengths include breaking down issues into manageable pieces to empower patients to move toward healing. She uses evidenced based methods like CBT and is also a Certified EMDR trauma-recovery therapist.
We want the most life has to offer. At times, circumstances, habits and trauma does not serve us well.... we wake up to find we aren't where we thought. If you're here, you are not alone. Colleen’s compassion, honesty, knowledge and transparency enables you to uncover your own abilities to cope, heal, and move through challenges. Colleen’s strengths include breaking down issues into manageable pieces to empower patients to move toward healing. She uses evidenced based methods like CBT and is also a Certified EMDR trauma-recovery therapist.
![Photo of Kim Marie Losquadro, MS, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54d738cf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Marie Losquadro
Counselor, MS, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Congratulations on taking the first step to make positive changes in your life and your relationships. Whether you or your relationship is in crisis, or if you seek change, there is hope. I am committed to helping individuals and couples improve their lives and their most valued relationships. I am passionate about helping individuals overcome personal challenges and tailor my counseling approach to match the needs of my clients thereby empowering you to create the life you have always dreamed of. My work with couples utilizes the Gottman Method Couples Therapy which can enhance your relationships in just 3 sessions.
Congratulations on taking the first step to make positive changes in your life and your relationships. Whether you or your relationship is in crisis, or if you seek change, there is hope. I am committed to helping individuals and couples improve their lives and their most valued relationships. I am passionate about helping individuals overcome personal challenges and tailor my counseling approach to match the needs of my clients thereby empowering you to create the life you have always dreamed of. My work with couples utilizes the Gottman Method Couples Therapy which can enhance your relationships in just 3 sessions.
![Photo of Raina Burlak, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, CTMH, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54f67b6e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Raina Burlak
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, CTMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 (Online Only)
I can help you use your strengths to meet your goals. Let's engage in a you-focused, judgement free, empathetic, skillful and goal directed conversation. Let's work through the dark emotions together. With support it can once again feel safe to rekindle hope and reprocess the felt memories that stick. We will focus on your goals and view you as capable with strengths. Hope and healing is possible.
I can help you use your strengths to meet your goals. Let's engage in a you-focused, judgement free, empathetic, skillful and goal directed conversation. Let's work through the dark emotions together. With support it can once again feel safe to rekindle hope and reprocess the felt memories that stick. We will focus on your goals and view you as capable with strengths. Hope and healing is possible.
![Photo of Nancy Graham, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/070af61d-5c2b-4dbd-9bf6-9d6f1cf0e0c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life's unexpected twists and turns can leave us feeling lost, but having someone who offers support without judgment can make all the difference. Creating a safe haven where individuals can freely express their emotions is both an honor and a privilege. If you're facing challenges and feel stuck, know that you don't have to go through it alone. As a former Army soldier and an Air Force spouse, I understand the anxiety and uncertainty that often accompany life's "hurry up and wait" moments. I believe this shouldn't extend to mental health—we deserve proactive support.
Life's unexpected twists and turns can leave us feeling lost, but having someone who offers support without judgment can make all the difference. Creating a safe haven where individuals can freely express their emotions is both an honor and a privilege. If you're facing challenges and feel stuck, know that you don't have to go through it alone. As a former Army soldier and an Air Force spouse, I understand the anxiety and uncertainty that often accompany life's "hurry up and wait" moments. I believe this shouldn't extend to mental health—we deserve proactive support.
![Photo of Alina Griffith, MS, CCTP, ASDCS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f0ba45f-a63e-429c-8c8a-d39b8e657cb7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alina Griffith
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, CCTP, ASDCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
I create a trusting space and build rapport so that you can have a place to process challenges, which also creates growth. Creating a safe space for my clients also means creating a space of compassion, empathy, understanding, and non-judgment. I value the transformative nature of a strong therapeutic relationship. Sometimes, there are disruptions in life that affect not only the present but the future as well. These disruptions can impact how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we perceive the world in a negative way. I draw from the modalities of CBT, DBT, Person-Centered Therapy, and SandTray Therapy.
I create a trusting space and build rapport so that you can have a place to process challenges, which also creates growth. Creating a safe space for my clients also means creating a space of compassion, empathy, understanding, and non-judgment. I value the transformative nature of a strong therapeutic relationship. Sometimes, there are disruptions in life that affect not only the present but the future as well. These disruptions can impact how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we perceive the world in a negative way. I draw from the modalities of CBT, DBT, Person-Centered Therapy, and SandTray Therapy.
![Photo of Kelly Micaela Mayor - Mayor Mental Health LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f816fae1-2191-4ddc-886c-2fe618a63fcc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mayor Mental Health LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Welcome to Mayor Mental Health LLC! We are a mental health clinic in Fort Walton Beach, offering both virtual and in-person sessions. We are owned by a husband/wife team of licensed therapists- Robert Mayor, LMHC and Kelly Mayor, LCSW. Together we have 24 years combined experience in the mental health field. We have a few other clinicians on our staff as well. We provide high-quality and evidenced-based care to assist our clients with improving their mental health. We love watching our clients succeed in reaching their goals.
Welcome to Mayor Mental Health LLC! We are a mental health clinic in Fort Walton Beach, offering both virtual and in-person sessions. We are owned by a husband/wife team of licensed therapists- Robert Mayor, LMHC and Kelly Mayor, LCSW. Together we have 24 years combined experience in the mental health field. We have a few other clinicians on our staff as well. We provide high-quality and evidenced-based care to assist our clients with improving their mental health. We love watching our clients succeed in reaching their goals.
![Photo of Danielle Rominger, MA, LMHC, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c79b7c47-a810-4017-bec8-ed200185de4a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Rominger
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 (Online Only)
Danielle is a board licensed mental health therapist in Florida and North Carolina. Danielle specializes in treating those struggling with emotional distress like anxiety, depression, and grief. Her client's typically struggle with anxieties related to health, loss, and socializing with others. Many experience feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness that can be paralyzing and interfere with day to day life. She thrives at helping people who have a history of relationship difficulties, including feelings of disconnection, miscommunication, and all types of abuse. Her expertise can help guide you to a content, fulfilling life.
Danielle is a board licensed mental health therapist in Florida and North Carolina. Danielle specializes in treating those struggling with emotional distress like anxiety, depression, and grief. Her client's typically struggle with anxieties related to health, loss, and socializing with others. Many experience feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness that can be paralyzing and interfere with day to day life. She thrives at helping people who have a history of relationship difficulties, including feelings of disconnection, miscommunication, and all types of abuse. Her expertise can help guide you to a content, fulfilling life.
![Photo of Robert Mayor, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/401f06d1-9095-43e1-8003-ec94598b9109/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress, I am here to help. In addition, I have experience working with military families and service members. I have helped clients with military unique stressors, combat trauma, sexual assault trauma, nightmares, hyper-vigilance, irritability, and anger. Besides treating PTSD, I have also assisted clients with anxiety, depression, family issues, life stress, parenting challenges, and men's issues. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), which is an evidenced based modality for treating PTSD and trauma.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress, I am here to help. In addition, I have experience working with military families and service members. I have helped clients with military unique stressors, combat trauma, sexual assault trauma, nightmares, hyper-vigilance, irritability, and anger. Besides treating PTSD, I have also assisted clients with anxiety, depression, family issues, life stress, parenting challenges, and men's issues. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), which is an evidenced based modality for treating PTSD and trauma.
![Photo of Melody Ray, MS, LMHC, BCBA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9ef1bb1-989f-4956-848b-1765e74b881e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Making the decision and moving forward with seeking therapy is a huge step and usually, it’s the biggest challenge in therapy. From the moment you step through my door, you’ve already got someone in your corner. I take pride in offering a supportive, calm, accepting, and safe environment for my clients. Today’s environment makes it more difficult for us to find ways to create healthy coping skills. We will work together to identify thought patterns and behaviors, process your emotions, and explore your values and beliefs. We’ll build those healthy coping skills together. It may not always be easy, but it will certainly be worth it.
Making the decision and moving forward with seeking therapy is a huge step and usually, it’s the biggest challenge in therapy. From the moment you step through my door, you’ve already got someone in your corner. I take pride in offering a supportive, calm, accepting, and safe environment for my clients. Today’s environment makes it more difficult for us to find ways to create healthy coping skills. We will work together to identify thought patterns and behaviors, process your emotions, and explore your values and beliefs. We’ll build those healthy coping skills together. It may not always be easy, but it will certainly be worth it.
![Photo of Erin R. Goodson, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc8ee66d-7d7f-4636-ade7-4e3bb3ef1151/3/320x400.jpeg)
The ideal client is an individual who desires help. I am not going to work harder than anyone to better themselves. You have to be willing to do the work with me. This work is hard. It is not fun to talk about things that you have struggled with and I deeply understand this. The reason I got into counseling is that I was forced to go to counseling as a child and refused to engage. It was not until I was a teenager and made the decision to ask for help, that it made a difference. Your desire and passion to want to make a difference in your life matters. I can help you on your path.
The ideal client is an individual who desires help. I am not going to work harder than anyone to better themselves. You have to be willing to do the work with me. This work is hard. It is not fun to talk about things that you have struggled with and I deeply understand this. The reason I got into counseling is that I was forced to go to counseling as a child and refused to engage. It was not until I was a teenager and made the decision to ask for help, that it made a difference. Your desire and passion to want to make a difference in your life matters. I can help you on your path.
![Photo of Earnestine Carswell, LMHC, CCTP, CRCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/680525ee-b3b6-4328-a269-19922e0464a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Your Empowering Solutions (Y.E.S), every “YES” in your life is associated with demands of time, commitment, rest and focus. When we run into challenges it can be so tough to develop a plan that contains self-love, empowerment and confidence. For those who have been victims of interpersonal violence (domestic violence, sex assault, survivor of childhood trauma or assault) or a traumatic experience. My 15 years of experience offers recognizing patterns, expressing emotions, communication skills and setting boundaries Together we will create a plan, of ways to cope, heal, and live a high performing life!
Your Empowering Solutions (Y.E.S), every “YES” in your life is associated with demands of time, commitment, rest and focus. When we run into challenges it can be so tough to develop a plan that contains self-love, empowerment and confidence. For those who have been victims of interpersonal violence (domestic violence, sex assault, survivor of childhood trauma or assault) or a traumatic experience. My 15 years of experience offers recognizing patterns, expressing emotions, communication skills and setting boundaries Together we will create a plan, of ways to cope, heal, and live a high performing life!
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![Photo of Shareen Ancog, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26574d3b-376d-4cf5-8c67-b6bdeaea0830/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shareen Ancog
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
If you need help, I am here for you. Regardless of your mental health situation, I am committed to supporting you. I offer assistance with grief, PTSD, anxiety, depression, dissociation, bipolar disorder, body image issues, PNES, and various other concerns. My approach is transparent, and I tailor my methods to suit each unique situation. My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself through a variety of therapeutic processes, including CBT, DBT, self-havening, audio therapy, hypnotherapy, VNS activation, autogenics, EMDR, and IFS.
If you need help, I am here for you. Regardless of your mental health situation, I am committed to supporting you. I offer assistance with grief, PTSD, anxiety, depression, dissociation, bipolar disorder, body image issues, PNES, and various other concerns. My approach is transparent, and I tailor my methods to suit each unique situation. My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself through a variety of therapeutic processes, including CBT, DBT, self-havening, audio therapy, hypnotherapy, VNS activation, autogenics, EMDR, and IFS.
![Photo of Lauren Tilden, MA, LMFT, NCC, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/486e0081-3a7d-45e9-a5e6-08d35fa0e9e8/4/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Tilden
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Life throws curveballs, beautiful and brutal, and we all need a teammate sometimes. Let's navigate yours together. Your story is yours alone, and it deserves a supportive, confidential space to unravel and understand. If daily life or relationships feel overwhelming, therapy can be a powerful tool to discover deeper meaning, tap into your strengths, and heal from past wounds.
Life throws curveballs, beautiful and brutal, and we all need a teammate sometimes. Let's navigate yours together. Your story is yours alone, and it deserves a supportive, confidential space to unravel and understand. If daily life or relationships feel overwhelming, therapy can be a powerful tool to discover deeper meaning, tap into your strengths, and heal from past wounds.
![Photo of Erika Garcia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/237def75-c27b-47d3-a650-57d9d10a7b5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erika Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Not accepting new clients
What does it mean to be human? Often it means feeling lost, confused, and at war with yourself. It can mean feeling like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, and that you’re expected to have everything figured out. But being human is all these painful things, and so much more. It’s feeling the sun shining on your face, laughing with people you love, being truly seen and understood. Feeling safe and calm in your body. Riding the waves of life with an inner trust that you can handle whatever comes. Therapy is a place to practice being human. To feel your messy emotions and be celebrated in setting goals and achieving them.
What does it mean to be human? Often it means feeling lost, confused, and at war with yourself. It can mean feeling like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, and that you’re expected to have everything figured out. But being human is all these painful things, and so much more. It’s feeling the sun shining on your face, laughing with people you love, being truly seen and understood. Feeling safe and calm in your body. Riding the waves of life with an inner trust that you can handle whatever comes. Therapy is a place to practice being human. To feel your messy emotions and be celebrated in setting goals and achieving them.
![Photo of Marisa Mundell - Creative Process Counseling LLC , LMHC, LPC, CYT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c5b9f14-9e4b-46a0-b835-077f54106d46/1/320x400.jpeg)
Creative Process Counseling LLC
LMHC, LPC, CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Creative Process Counseling is a small corner of the world where you are reminded; you matter, you are loved, and you belong. This practice is informed by my personal and professional experience as it is deeply rooted in curiosity, courage, and integrity. It is infused with a mix of eastern tradition and western training, as well as intuitive timing for laughter and play. The space offers a variety of sensory options to meet dynamic needs including yoga props, essential oils, art materials, and games.
Creative Process Counseling is a small corner of the world where you are reminded; you matter, you are loved, and you belong. This practice is informed by my personal and professional experience as it is deeply rooted in curiosity, courage, and integrity. It is infused with a mix of eastern tradition and western training, as well as intuitive timing for laughter and play. The space offers a variety of sensory options to meet dynamic needs including yoga props, essential oils, art materials, and games.
![Photo of Amanda Shoemaker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60a06480-1348-4740-b653-c995affa59d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Shoemaker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 (Online Only)
Depression and anxiety can leave you feeling lonely, scared and vulnerable. But you're not. I work with clients using a combination of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to practice mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotional regulation and distress tolerance, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help challenge those irrational thoughts and replace them with more helpful, constructive ones. We will incorporate some solution-focused and strengths-based therapies as well.
Depression and anxiety can leave you feeling lonely, scared and vulnerable. But you're not. I work with clients using a combination of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to practice mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotional regulation and distress tolerance, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help challenge those irrational thoughts and replace them with more helpful, constructive ones. We will incorporate some solution-focused and strengths-based therapies as well.
![Photo of Claire Jones, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0661db9f-015a-4708-aa20-42136c985ae2/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience working with clients from all walks of life. I have experience working with children and their families, teenagers, young adults, and adults of any age. My philosophy involves helping you get started with improving your life in a collaborative and supportive environment that involves us deciding the best path forward. My goal is to help you to rebuild your sense of self, and prevent your emotions from controlling your life. Life can throw a lot at us, and I would love to help restore your confidence in handling any problem that comes your way. I am also passionate about cultural inclusion and LGBTQ+ affirming care.
I have experience working with clients from all walks of life. I have experience working with children and their families, teenagers, young adults, and adults of any age. My philosophy involves helping you get started with improving your life in a collaborative and supportive environment that involves us deciding the best path forward. My goal is to help you to rebuild your sense of self, and prevent your emotions from controlling your life. Life can throw a lot at us, and I would love to help restore your confidence in handling any problem that comes your way. I am also passionate about cultural inclusion and LGBTQ+ affirming care.
![Photo of Hillary Marshall, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9552301f-0be0-4b53-b3b4-e53f370e7d2d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hillary has her master’s degree in Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Troy University. She is passionate about helping others and has experience working with adults, children, and couples. Originally from Colorado, she has lived and worked in a variety of places including New York, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. She has a background in music and enjoys theater and opera. Approaching each client with compassion and empathy, she is dedicated to assisting others to become the best versions of themselves.
Hillary has her master’s degree in Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Troy University. She is passionate about helping others and has experience working with adults, children, and couples. Originally from Colorado, she has lived and worked in a variety of places including New York, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. She has a background in music and enjoys theater and opera. Approaching each client with compassion and empathy, she is dedicated to assisting others to become the best versions of themselves.
![Photo of Carolyn Posey, CMHC, Student, Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2a0cca4-403a-40ef-842b-72f28bfb142e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carolyn Posey
Pre-Licensed Professional, CMHC, Student, Intern
Verified Verified
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Are you experiencing roadblocks in life? Does it feel like there is something invisible standing in between you and where you would like to be? Do relationships cause you unwelcome stress and worry? Sometimes the first step towards healing is simply acknowledging that you need help, and that is what I am here for: to help you sort out your worries and anxieties, and to walk alongside you as you navigate how to work out some of the more difficult things in life.
Are you experiencing roadblocks in life? Does it feel like there is something invisible standing in between you and where you would like to be? Do relationships cause you unwelcome stress and worry? Sometimes the first step towards healing is simply acknowledging that you need help, and that is what I am here for: to help you sort out your worries and anxieties, and to walk alongside you as you navigate how to work out some of the more difficult things in life.
![Photo of Elizabeth Yoak, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59462922-4c98-45d9-9204-d80eb27be92d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! My name is Elizabeth Yoak, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. Reaching out for help can be an intimidating obstacle at first, and I am so glad you've taken this step! I specialize in helping people overcome trauma, anxiety, and mood disorders. In my approach, I use a variety of techniques tailored to my client's specific needs. Some of the approaches I use include EMDR, mindfulness, DBT, CBT, and more. Each person is unique in their story and therefore the approach I use with each client varies based on what works best for them.
Welcome! My name is Elizabeth Yoak, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. Reaching out for help can be an intimidating obstacle at first, and I am so glad you've taken this step! I specialize in helping people overcome trauma, anxiety, and mood disorders. In my approach, I use a variety of techniques tailored to my client's specific needs. Some of the approaches I use include EMDR, mindfulness, DBT, CBT, and more. Each person is unique in their story and therefore the approach I use with each client varies based on what works best for them.
See more therapy options for Fort Walton Beach
Nearby Searches for Fort Walton Beach
- Crestview
- Destin
- Gulf Breeze
- Hurlburt Field
- Mary Esther
- Miramar Beach
- Navarre
- Niceville
- Pensacola Beach
- Santa Rosa Beach
- Shalimar
- Valparaiso
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Fort Walton Beach, FL
100+
Average cost per session
$125
Therapists in Fort Walton Beach, FL who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
81% | Self Esteem |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Coping Skills |
74% | Stress |
70% | Relationship Issues |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | Aetna |
70% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
68% | Optum |
How Therapists in Fort Walton Beach, FL see their clients
76% | In Person and Online | |
24% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
87% | Female | |
12% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Fort Walton Beach?
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.