Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA
![Photo of Jill Pesavento, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45a339bd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Pesavento
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Not accepting new clients
Do you wake up with an anxious feeling in your chest and dread starting your day? Does your anxiety limit your ability to do what you want with your life? Are you frustrated with your life and your current relationships? Do you want to feel better about who you are inside and see that translated on the outside? Most people come to me because they have been suffering with themselves for too long. You don't have to keep living a limited existence because of your anxiety, depression, or feeling bad about yourself. Call me for a free consultation.
Do you wake up with an anxious feeling in your chest and dread starting your day? Does your anxiety limit your ability to do what you want with your life? Are you frustrated with your life and your current relationships? Do you want to feel better about who you are inside and see that translated on the outside? Most people come to me because they have been suffering with themselves for too long. You don't have to keep living a limited existence because of your anxiety, depression, or feeling bad about yourself. Call me for a free consultation.
![Photo of Douglas Bing, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1eec7695-ff82-4ce2-a3d0-6a9ddfbe592c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I tend to work with individuals and couples in a collaborative way. I attempt to assess what the goals are and explore how to get there. Generally, I see the work in a couple of phases: establishing a safe, supportive environment and secondly, attempting to provide insight for those I work with. Insight is part of it, then one must attempt to deal with some of the inevitable challenges of changing. To this end, a collaborative relationship allows for us to work at the Client's pace, with perhaps, some occasional supportive nudging.
I tend to work with individuals and couples in a collaborative way. I attempt to assess what the goals are and explore how to get there. Generally, I see the work in a couple of phases: establishing a safe, supportive environment and secondly, attempting to provide insight for those I work with. Insight is part of it, then one must attempt to deal with some of the inevitable challenges of changing. To this end, a collaborative relationship allows for us to work at the Client's pace, with perhaps, some occasional supportive nudging.
![Photo of Cortney Wagner, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6aea8b-e207-4132-9c79-1b7e9293a27d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cortney Wagner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Waitlist for new clients
We all have challenges and experiences throughout our life span that can cause pain, frustration, feeling stuck and other difficult emotions. These experiences can result in us becoming disconnected with our true selves and unable to live life to the fullest. I am here to help you connect with your true self so that you can not only heal from difficult experiences but grow from them and create a sense of empowerment. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment offering a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual's needs.
We all have challenges and experiences throughout our life span that can cause pain, frustration, feeling stuck and other difficult emotions. These experiences can result in us becoming disconnected with our true selves and unable to live life to the fullest. I am here to help you connect with your true self so that you can not only heal from difficult experiences but grow from them and create a sense of empowerment. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment offering a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual's needs.
![Photo of Klara E Pennachio, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/521b7205-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Klara E Pennachio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or having a hard time managing emotions...if you are struggling with relationships, feeling lonely, or isolated - there is hope. Through our work together, you can learn to manage stress better, learn how to have healthy relationships and better communication, learn to understand and work through anxiety and depression, and to process and recover from traumatic experiences. As an EMDR trained therapist, I help individuals heal and grow and thrive - and am honored to take part in others’ journeys toward healing, clarity, and peace.
If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or having a hard time managing emotions...if you are struggling with relationships, feeling lonely, or isolated - there is hope. Through our work together, you can learn to manage stress better, learn how to have healthy relationships and better communication, learn to understand and work through anxiety and depression, and to process and recover from traumatic experiences. As an EMDR trained therapist, I help individuals heal and grow and thrive - and am honored to take part in others’ journeys toward healing, clarity, and peace.
![Photo of Michelle Matoff, LCSW, PsyD, CBC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/459da83b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Matoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD, CBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I am a Psy.D, LCSW with +25 years of experience. I have lived and worked in diverse social environments (USA, UK, Brazil, and Australia) and specialize in the treatment of anxiety, stress management, chronic pain management, codependency, compulsive overeating, pre-bariatric surgery evaluations, and post-bariatric surgery support.(1) In addition, my practice focuses on life transitions e.g. adjusting to college life, balancing school, career and relationships, aging, and loss of health. I work with you to improve the quality of your life.
I am a Psy.D, LCSW with +25 years of experience. I have lived and worked in diverse social environments (USA, UK, Brazil, and Australia) and specialize in the treatment of anxiety, stress management, chronic pain management, codependency, compulsive overeating, pre-bariatric surgery evaluations, and post-bariatric surgery support.(1) In addition, my practice focuses on life transitions e.g. adjusting to college life, balancing school, career and relationships, aging, and loss of health. I work with you to improve the quality of your life.
![Photo of Patricia Anderson - Bridges Therapy Group of CA, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bbae5d5-9483-4d1f-b9fc-7ada3a35abed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bridges Therapy Group of CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we’re dedicated to matching you with the perfect therapist for you and ensuring that your insurance will truly pay for your sessions. We are contracted, in-network providers with all the insurers listed below. We verify your benefits before you start so there are no surprises to you.
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we’re dedicated to matching you with the perfect therapist for you and ensuring that your insurance will truly pay for your sessions. We are contracted, in-network providers with all the insurers listed below. We verify your benefits before you start so there are no surprises to you.
Britteny Young
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you caught in an emotional storm? Are you flooded with anxieties for the future and traumas from the past? You are not alone. I work with adolescents, teens and young adults searching for a way out of the chaotic cycles of depression, anxiety, mood swings, addiction, trauma, and loss. I offer a safe, genuine space of understanding, solace, and support. Let's remove the pressures, distractions, and expectations that burden you so you can see and hear yourself clearly. Together, we'll find clarity in the chaos so you can calmly and confidently make decisions that add value to your life.
Are you caught in an emotional storm? Are you flooded with anxieties for the future and traumas from the past? You are not alone. I work with adolescents, teens and young adults searching for a way out of the chaotic cycles of depression, anxiety, mood swings, addiction, trauma, and loss. I offer a safe, genuine space of understanding, solace, and support. Let's remove the pressures, distractions, and expectations that burden you so you can see and hear yourself clearly. Together, we'll find clarity in the chaos so you can calmly and confidently make decisions that add value to your life.
![Photo of Melissa Wheelock, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43f8ce70-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Wheelock
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
If you find yourself on this site looking for a therapist, then the answer is yes! It is the right time for you to focus on healing for yourself! I specialize in working with people who are looking for help healing anxiety, depression, body image and relationship challenges. The most important relationship you will ever have is with yourself, and my background in attachment theory, cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness and the well known trauma treatment called EMDR gives me a unique perspective about the challenges all humans face. I offer online and in person therapy and I can't wait to hear from you!
If you find yourself on this site looking for a therapist, then the answer is yes! It is the right time for you to focus on healing for yourself! I specialize in working with people who are looking for help healing anxiety, depression, body image and relationship challenges. The most important relationship you will ever have is with yourself, and my background in attachment theory, cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness and the well known trauma treatment called EMDR gives me a unique perspective about the challenges all humans face. I offer online and in person therapy and I can't wait to hear from you!
![Photo of Erin P MacIntyre - Erin P. MacIntyre PsyD Clinical Psychologist, MA, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4919f27d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin P. MacIntyre PsyD Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
If looking to become a new patient, please email me for the fastest response!
If looking to become a new patient, please email me for the fastest response!
![Photo of Kristina Hibshman Berger, PsyD(c), LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6f1bf80-5a7b-4f37-841d-ac78b7cc5b27/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristina Hibshman Berger
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD(c), LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Starting therapy is a significant and courageous step towards nurturing your mental well-being. In my practice, I specialize in two distinct areas, each with deep personal and professional meaning. First, I am passionate about working with neurodiverse individuals, couples, and families. I am a dedicated advocate of the neurodiversity model, which views ADHD, Autism, AuDHD, and other neurodivergent traits as natural variations within the human spectrum. I believe that embracing these differences, rather than pathologizing them, allows for a more compassionate and empowering approach to therapy.
Starting therapy is a significant and courageous step towards nurturing your mental well-being. In my practice, I specialize in two distinct areas, each with deep personal and professional meaning. First, I am passionate about working with neurodiverse individuals, couples, and families. I am a dedicated advocate of the neurodiversity model, which views ADHD, Autism, AuDHD, and other neurodivergent traits as natural variations within the human spectrum. I believe that embracing these differences, rather than pathologizing them, allows for a more compassionate and empowering approach to therapy.
![Photo of Karen A Akre, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4323bea2-b7d1-4d8b-83cd-3c0b7b4a4bb0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking therapy is a brave and vulnerable choice. My hope is you will feel my office provides a safe haven to be your authentic self. Working together we will ensure your treatment is tailored to your individual needs and goals. I will provide unconditional acceptance and support while you process through the emotions and circumstances which led you to seek out therapy.
Seeking therapy is a brave and vulnerable choice. My hope is you will feel my office provides a safe haven to be your authentic self. Working together we will ensure your treatment is tailored to your individual needs and goals. I will provide unconditional acceptance and support while you process through the emotions and circumstances which led you to seek out therapy.
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![Photo of Michelle Tesoriero, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dec214f6-e68f-4187-95cf-572ab90b1833/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Tesoriero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
With over 15 years of experience in mental health, I specialize in helping people cope with anxiety and depression, particularly those struggling with negative thoughts that affect their mood. My journey has involved individual therapy for adults and group therapy for children in behavior schools, where I've witnessed incredible transformations. My passion lies in guiding individuals through life's challenges, helping them find their way when they feel stuck. I also focus on emotional turmoil, working closely with clients to manage their feelings and thoughts, empowering them to take responsibility for themselves.
With over 15 years of experience in mental health, I specialize in helping people cope with anxiety and depression, particularly those struggling with negative thoughts that affect their mood. My journey has involved individual therapy for adults and group therapy for children in behavior schools, where I've witnessed incredible transformations. My passion lies in guiding individuals through life's challenges, helping them find their way when they feel stuck. I also focus on emotional turmoil, working closely with clients to manage their feelings and thoughts, empowering them to take responsibility for themselves.
![Photo of Sarah Whitmore Boe, MA, SUDCC, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d962c5b-d633-4ba4-a3e4-dabfd6902d0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Whitmore Boe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, SUDCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Are your habits getting in the way of living your best life? Do you consider yourself a "functioning" substance user? Maybe you are ready to change but 12-step programs or rehab are not for you. My approach is coaching-based, and solution focused. Sessions focus on authentic self-discovery, recognizing and removing patterns that are keeping you stuck, setting realistic goals, and developing strategy to achieve them. I work well with individuals in a transition period of their lives, and with those who are motivated to make a change. I will help you develop a plan and accountability.
Are your habits getting in the way of living your best life? Do you consider yourself a "functioning" substance user? Maybe you are ready to change but 12-step programs or rehab are not for you. My approach is coaching-based, and solution focused. Sessions focus on authentic self-discovery, recognizing and removing patterns that are keeping you stuck, setting realistic goals, and developing strategy to achieve them. I work well with individuals in a transition period of their lives, and with those who are motivated to make a change. I will help you develop a plan and accountability.
![Photo of Tommy Ferndino, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/299f2924-1c36-434d-89fa-c7b93dbe4e70/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tommy Ferndino
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
Hello, my legal name is Joseph but you can call me Tommy. My work as a therapist is mostly informed by Attachment Theory and I currently work with individuals ranging from young adults to seniors. As human beings, we are meant to seek connection with others. Connection with a compassionate, caring, and knowledgeable therapist is one of the best ways to develop a more secure sense of attachment to the world around you. This connection can lead to the positive, long-term change you are seeking.
Hello, my legal name is Joseph but you can call me Tommy. My work as a therapist is mostly informed by Attachment Theory and I currently work with individuals ranging from young adults to seniors. As human beings, we are meant to seek connection with others. Connection with a compassionate, caring, and knowledgeable therapist is one of the best ways to develop a more secure sense of attachment to the world around you. This connection can lead to the positive, long-term change you are seeking.
![Photo of Dr. Adare Toral, PhD, MA, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a947ab40-24de-4ba9-99cb-22e5285dc3f9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Adare Toral
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Thank you for taking an interest in my practice. I am a trauma and forensic specialist with specialties in EMDR, somatic therapy, and threat assessment. My work centers on providing care for teens and adults with trauma through evidenced based practices. I utilize various therapeutic methods including art therapy, DBT, and somatic experiencing in order to provide the best care for each individual.
Thank you for taking an interest in my practice. I am a trauma and forensic specialist with specialties in EMDR, somatic therapy, and threat assessment. My work centers on providing care for teens and adults with trauma through evidenced based practices. I utilize various therapeutic methods including art therapy, DBT, and somatic experiencing in order to provide the best care for each individual.
![Photo of Dr. Jay Bettergarcia, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74d4a1c5-0cf8-4754-b0de-7cdb0ed7bdfe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jay Bettergarcia
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93410
Waitlist for new clients
Are you exploring your gender identity or sexuality? Maybe you’re already sure of who you are and you need help taking the next step in your gender journey? The Center for Collaborative Transformations is here to help! If you’ve been thinking about you gender and you are ready to explore the next steps of your social or medical transition (what ever that looks like for you), we can work together while you process, discover, and create the most authentic version of YOU, with all your various identities. I work collaboratively with clients, families, and care teams to develop meaningful acceptance, change, growth, and healing.
Are you exploring your gender identity or sexuality? Maybe you’re already sure of who you are and you need help taking the next step in your gender journey? The Center for Collaborative Transformations is here to help! If you’ve been thinking about you gender and you are ready to explore the next steps of your social or medical transition (what ever that looks like for you), we can work together while you process, discover, and create the most authentic version of YOU, with all your various identities. I work collaboratively with clients, families, and care teams to develop meaningful acceptance, change, growth, and healing.
![Photo of Mary M Kunz, MS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56be4173-0031-4ec7-87d9-69198d9e497a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary M Kunz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93406 (Online Only)
All emotions have a job - to bring something to our attention, to give us information about our world, sometimes to give us the physical energy to take action. I see my role as a therapist would be to help you better understand yourself, and when it fits to teach you tools and skills so that you can be effective in your life. I can be a guide and an ally through many challenges - these include depression and anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, caregiving, life-threatening illnesses, grief and loss. Whatever emotion or situation led you to seek help, you can use it to heal your life.
All emotions have a job - to bring something to our attention, to give us information about our world, sometimes to give us the physical energy to take action. I see my role as a therapist would be to help you better understand yourself, and when it fits to teach you tools and skills so that you can be effective in your life. I can be a guide and an ally through many challenges - these include depression and anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, caregiving, life-threatening illnesses, grief and loss. Whatever emotion or situation led you to seek help, you can use it to heal your life.
![Photo of Kristin Stringfellow, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1eda0d64-32cd-43d5-8ff9-6cee0d2b91d4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Stringfellow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
As a therapist at Mindful Heart Counseling Center, I work with couples and individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life-transitions. Coping with what’s happening in your life can be overwhelming and I’m here to help you find relief and learn skills to build resilience. I strive to help my clients live mindfully and find peace in the present moment. I approach therapy from a mindfulness-based perspective, from which we focus on gathering a better understanding of our thoughts and behaviors by exploring our emotions without judgement.
As a therapist at Mindful Heart Counseling Center, I work with couples and individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life-transitions. Coping with what’s happening in your life can be overwhelming and I’m here to help you find relief and learn skills to build resilience. I strive to help my clients live mindfully and find peace in the present moment. I approach therapy from a mindfulness-based perspective, from which we focus on gathering a better understanding of our thoughts and behaviors by exploring our emotions without judgement.
![Photo of Brian Levin, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94ea8f83-5608-4e12-b36b-84eb1f41803b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brian Levin
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I feel that every person has an innate ability for self-discovery and growth. However, our path through life is sometimes hindered by circumstances and unconscious choices that reflect ingrained conditioning. Untangling knots in this invisible thread that is woven through our lives is where we find meaning and allows us to progress. In therapy, my primary goal is to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and empowered to explore what’s happening in your life with clarity and openness.
I feel that every person has an innate ability for self-discovery and growth. However, our path through life is sometimes hindered by circumstances and unconscious choices that reflect ingrained conditioning. Untangling knots in this invisible thread that is woven through our lives is where we find meaning and allows us to progress. In therapy, my primary goal is to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and empowered to explore what’s happening in your life with clarity and openness.
![Photo of Desiree M Garcia, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6733218-420f-4615-8fd2-4bf61ca477a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Desiree M Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
As individuals, we all walk through difficult times, and having someone by our side makes all the difference. I provide a supportive and safe space for you to grow, heal, and work through the areas of your life that you are wanting to address. For over fifteen years I have had the privilege of working with individuals going through some of the most difficult times in their lives. I have witnessed the resiliency of individuals committed to making change. I wholeheartedly believe that we all can overcome, heal, and grow.
As individuals, we all walk through difficult times, and having someone by our side makes all the difference. I provide a supportive and safe space for you to grow, heal, and work through the areas of your life that you are wanting to address. For over fifteen years I have had the privilege of working with individuals going through some of the most difficult times in their lives. I have witnessed the resiliency of individuals committed to making change. I wholeheartedly believe that we all can overcome, heal, and grow.
See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo
Nearby Searches for San Luis Obispo
- Arroyo Grande
- Atascadero
- Avila Beach
- Cayucos
- Grover Beach
- Los Osos
- Morro Bay
- Nipomo
- Paso Robles
- Pismo Beach
- Shell Beach
- Templeton
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA
400+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
85% | Depression |
78% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Self Esteem |
67% | Coping Skills |
65% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
51% | Aetna |
36% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
36% | Other |
How Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
17% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in San Luis Obispo?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
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.