Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA
![Photo of Julie Messer, BS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e6b0d7b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Messer
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Since you found me on this site I would venture to guess something is awry in your life...am I right? Whether you are struggling with relationships, tackling your own personal demons, or just have absolutely no idea why you don't feel like your normal self anymore we can work together to figure it out and discover solutions that work for you.
Since you found me on this site I would venture to guess something is awry in your life...am I right? Whether you are struggling with relationships, tackling your own personal demons, or just have absolutely no idea why you don't feel like your normal self anymore we can work together to figure it out and discover solutions that work for you.
![Photo of Erin Addams - Family Therapy Solutions, INC., MS, CADC-II, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/daed55db-9483-437b-86ca-2aeddaef10fb/3/320x400.jpeg)
Family Therapy Solutions, INC.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, CADC-II, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
You wouldn't go to a shoddy chain restaurant for quality food so why would you do the same for mental health? Here at FTS, We are thrilled to have the opportunity to support you in finding real results towards growth and fulfillment. At FTS, we are dedicated to providing a safe, confidential, and client centered space for you to explore your challenges and aspirations. We are particularly attuned to the unique needs of communities of first responders, perinatal, and trauma-work, (to name a few) and we know you'll walk out knowing exactly what you got out of therapy!
You wouldn't go to a shoddy chain restaurant for quality food so why would you do the same for mental health? Here at FTS, We are thrilled to have the opportunity to support you in finding real results towards growth and fulfillment. At FTS, we are dedicated to providing a safe, confidential, and client centered space for you to explore your challenges and aspirations. We are particularly attuned to the unique needs of communities of first responders, perinatal, and trauma-work, (to name a few) and we know you'll walk out knowing exactly what you got out of therapy!
![Photo of Meagan Edwards, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55878e95-2118-46f4-a456-d1b30d46a98e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meagan Edwards
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Hi, I'm Meagan Edwards and I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. My degree, training, and specialties are centered on repairing and enhancing relationships; both those with ourselves and others. I consider and work with individuals and families with holistic frameworks and consideration of the various systems that impact them. My style is client-centered. I utilize systems frameworks in my practice.
Hi, I'm Meagan Edwards and I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. My degree, training, and specialties are centered on repairing and enhancing relationships; both those with ourselves and others. I consider and work with individuals and families with holistic frameworks and consideration of the various systems that impact them. My style is client-centered. I utilize systems frameworks in my practice.
![Photo of Heidi M Lewin-Miller, LMFT, RD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d33e24e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heidi M Lewin-Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
Recovering from an Eating Disorder is a challenging feat. But it can be a journey of self discovery, renewed strength,and the most important gift you give to yourself. I have been in practice in SLO since 1984, first as a Registered Dietitian, and then as a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I specialize in treating anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and compulsive exercise, for women, men and teens. I have assisted hundreds of individuals to fully recover and go on to lead happy balanced lives. Having recovered myself, I know the pain of disordered eating and the freedom of transcending it.
Recovering from an Eating Disorder is a challenging feat. But it can be a journey of self discovery, renewed strength,and the most important gift you give to yourself. I have been in practice in SLO since 1984, first as a Registered Dietitian, and then as a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I specialize in treating anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and compulsive exercise, for women, men and teens. I have assisted hundreds of individuals to fully recover and go on to lead happy balanced lives. Having recovered myself, I know the pain of disordered eating and the freedom of transcending it.
![Photo of Lynlee April Olivera, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d610338-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lynlee April Olivera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I provide compassionate, science based treatment for Anticipatory Anxiety, AKA General Anxiety Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). OCD is a psychological disorder that can torment and debilitate its sufferers not to mention the upheaval and anguish it brings to family and loved ones. Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) and/or Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) treatment is standard. If this sounds like the above information describes you or a loved one, I would love to work along side you. You don't have to walk alone in your journey with mental health.
I provide compassionate, science based treatment for Anticipatory Anxiety, AKA General Anxiety Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). OCD is a psychological disorder that can torment and debilitate its sufferers not to mention the upheaval and anguish it brings to family and loved ones. Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) and/or Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) treatment is standard. If this sounds like the above information describes you or a loved one, I would love to work along side you. You don't have to walk alone in your journey with mental health.
![Photo of Juniper S Hobson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b2bb60f-8dc0-45e4-ae64-121176b17019/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe empathy, authenticity and genuineness should underlie any therapeutic relationship. I work from more of a relational and depth approach, offering a deeper integration of body, mind and spirit. I also utilize many different therapeutic techniques, such as DBT, CBT, Mindfulness, and Attachment Theory. With 14 years of clinical practice, I have a lot professional training and experience to draw on. I offer different levels of therapy, tailored to where you are at & what you are interested in - whether you are seeking a large transformational change, or merely transformation of a situation or life circumstance.
I believe empathy, authenticity and genuineness should underlie any therapeutic relationship. I work from more of a relational and depth approach, offering a deeper integration of body, mind and spirit. I also utilize many different therapeutic techniques, such as DBT, CBT, Mindfulness, and Attachment Theory. With 14 years of clinical practice, I have a lot professional training and experience to draw on. I offer different levels of therapy, tailored to where you are at & what you are interested in - whether you are seeking a large transformational change, or merely transformation of a situation or life circumstance.
![Photo of Anthony Paul Martello, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc4fe153-423f-4ff1-8dbe-d0b2e452769b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anthony Paul Martello
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Are you afraid, confused, or struggling with your relationships? I work with client(s) dealing with interpersonal issues and communication challenges. It may be a husband and wife re-defining their roles with life changes, or an individual considering a career change. The problem often reveals itself at the surface when arguing and verbal conflict ensue, but the source of the problem needs a deeper adjustment, such as adjusting roles or providing more support for a family member. Regardless, clear communication usually allows the individual, couple, or family to achieve the goal of collaboration and compromise.
Are you afraid, confused, or struggling with your relationships? I work with client(s) dealing with interpersonal issues and communication challenges. It may be a husband and wife re-defining their roles with life changes, or an individual considering a career change. The problem often reveals itself at the surface when arguing and verbal conflict ensue, but the source of the problem needs a deeper adjustment, such as adjusting roles or providing more support for a family member. Regardless, clear communication usually allows the individual, couple, or family to achieve the goal of collaboration and compromise.
![Photo of Sarah Medzyk, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7577af9-e6fc-4f13-83dd-9df7af5fd64a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Medzyk
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
The difficulties of everyday life can sometimes become overwhelming. When on top of those difficulties we add the stresses of illness, anxiety, depression, our identity, our love lives and more-we can easily feel burdened to our breaking point. We just don't feel heard. Sometimes these situations can linger for months or years, making it hard to meet our obligations and live our lives in the way we would like. However, those difficulties and stresses don't need to define who we are-or where we're going. It's my goal as a therapist to help you tell your story.
The difficulties of everyday life can sometimes become overwhelming. When on top of those difficulties we add the stresses of illness, anxiety, depression, our identity, our love lives and more-we can easily feel burdened to our breaking point. We just don't feel heard. Sometimes these situations can linger for months or years, making it hard to meet our obligations and live our lives in the way we would like. However, those difficulties and stresses don't need to define who we are-or where we're going. It's my goal as a therapist to help you tell your story.
![Photo of Yolia Xiaoyin Zhong, AMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e723ad7-47db-4850-acdf-64d6d3d812d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yolia Xiaoyin Zhong
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I provide an emotionally safe and non-judgmental space for you to feel empowered and grow. I strive to provide my best self and therapeutic skills to assist you in finding your balance in the various aspects of your life and relationships. If you feel overwhelmed by life challenges and struggles, you are not alone. By working collaboratively with you, I will support you to process through the struggles you've experienced and build skills to heal and grow. My approach focuses on processing and healing by utilizing modalities that are strength-based and client-centered. For couples, I have training in and utilize the Gottman Method.
I provide an emotionally safe and non-judgmental space for you to feel empowered and grow. I strive to provide my best self and therapeutic skills to assist you in finding your balance in the various aspects of your life and relationships. If you feel overwhelmed by life challenges and struggles, you are not alone. By working collaboratively with you, I will support you to process through the struggles you've experienced and build skills to heal and grow. My approach focuses on processing and healing by utilizing modalities that are strength-based and client-centered. For couples, I have training in and utilize the Gottman Method.
![Photo of Maya Bettencourt - Developmental Specialty Partners, MSW, BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f9968c9-7a4c-471d-a271-b11099f6781d/1/320x400.png)
We are proud to be a leading provider in developmental care, offering comprehensive & individualized therapy programs backed by years of expertise and a compassionate approach.
We are proud to be a leading provider in developmental care, offering comprehensive & individualized therapy programs backed by years of expertise and a compassionate approach.
![Photo of Ellen Morgan Jones, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5001eebe-aa3c-43f5-9686-2e91ab4135fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ellen Morgan Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I am a passionate nature enthusiast and Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are interested in furthering their development and reaching a deeper understanding of their own, authentic being. I believe that we are more than our emotions and behaviors–we are complex people that require introspection and the honor of a unique and individualized path to healing. Through the exploration of stories and patterns (both current and past), I assist clients in coming into a deeper understanding and ease with the self.
I am a passionate nature enthusiast and Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are interested in furthering their development and reaching a deeper understanding of their own, authentic being. I believe that we are more than our emotions and behaviors–we are complex people that require introspection and the honor of a unique and individualized path to healing. Through the exploration of stories and patterns (both current and past), I assist clients in coming into a deeper understanding and ease with the self.
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Claire is a therapist for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
Claire is a therapist for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
![Photo of Tyler Sullivan Hartford, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46538afd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tyler Sullivan Hartford
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
Few of us make it through childhood without having experienced trauma of one form or another. Often times, the adaptations that we make in order to best survive early life challenges, lead to patterns of belief and action which get in the way of us finding freedom, happiness, and fulfillment as adolescents and adults. Every person deserves an opportunity to grow to their greatest potential. Therapy is a facilitated process of increasing awareness of obstacles to growth and supporting transformation.
Few of us make it through childhood without having experienced trauma of one form or another. Often times, the adaptations that we make in order to best survive early life challenges, lead to patterns of belief and action which get in the way of us finding freedom, happiness, and fulfillment as adolescents and adults. Every person deserves an opportunity to grow to their greatest potential. Therapy is a facilitated process of increasing awareness of obstacles to growth and supporting transformation.
![Photo of Cassie Ueberrhein - Cassie Ueberrhein Psychotherapy, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10236d67-bbae-4265-bfe0-65181aab426a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cassie Ueberrhein Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
My focus is young adults 18+, college students and LGBTQ+ folx. I have extensive experience working with college students. I aim to support and guide those who are struggling with adjusting to college/young adulthood and coping with depression and anxiety. I also assist individuals who are working on strengthening their identity, exploring their sexuality and seeking change in relational patterns. Decreasing stigma around mental illness as well as suicide prevention and LGBTQ+ rights are important causes to me as an individual. I am an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. I am also a sex-positive therapist, who is not here to judge you. :)
My focus is young adults 18+, college students and LGBTQ+ folx. I have extensive experience working with college students. I aim to support and guide those who are struggling with adjusting to college/young adulthood and coping with depression and anxiety. I also assist individuals who are working on strengthening their identity, exploring their sexuality and seeking change in relational patterns. Decreasing stigma around mental illness as well as suicide prevention and LGBTQ+ rights are important causes to me as an individual. I am an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. I am also a sex-positive therapist, who is not here to judge you. :)
![Photo of Austin Nystrom, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1e68623-b3c5-41e9-8610-bda6a297207a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Austin Nystrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy is to help each client adapt and grow from life's circumstances. I seek to help my clients thrive within their community and experience a grounded and vital sense of connectedness to self and all others. I utilize a holistic approach that embraces one's intersections and addresses mental, emotional, and somatic (bodily) experiences.
My approach to therapy is to help each client adapt and grow from life's circumstances. I seek to help my clients thrive within their community and experience a grounded and vital sense of connectedness to self and all others. I utilize a holistic approach that embraces one's intersections and addresses mental, emotional, and somatic (bodily) experiences.
![Photo of Marissa E Wilson, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06528b6d-2bf3-417e-8798-8a6c41364db5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marissa E Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Not accepting new clients
Everyone can benefit from additional support and guidance, and my goal is to partner with others to reach their optimal health and well-being. I have experience working with adults and couples managing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship issues and stress. I work to understand each individual's unique needs and identify strengths to help overcome obstacles and challenges. My goal is to assist clients in alleviating the impact of various stressors and symptoms, by incorporating practical tools that can be used everyday.
Everyone can benefit from additional support and guidance, and my goal is to partner with others to reach their optimal health and well-being. I have experience working with adults and couples managing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship issues and stress. I work to understand each individual's unique needs and identify strengths to help overcome obstacles and challenges. My goal is to assist clients in alleviating the impact of various stressors and symptoms, by incorporating practical tools that can be used everyday.
![Photo of Bobby Tehrani, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d09daf1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My primary focus in private practice is evaluation and assessment for a variety of psychological conditions, such as ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Learning Disabilities and Personality Disorders.
The second focus I have is treatment. I have an integrative approach to therapy in which I use multiple modalities that fit my clients’ individual needs. Some of the modalities I use are interpersonal therapy, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I also view other factors that can affect the client, such as cultural, medical, and environmental factors.
My primary focus in private practice is evaluation and assessment for a variety of psychological conditions, such as ADHD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Learning Disabilities and Personality Disorders.
The second focus I have is treatment. I have an integrative approach to therapy in which I use multiple modalities that fit my clients’ individual needs. Some of the modalities I use are interpersonal therapy, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I also view other factors that can affect the client, such as cultural, medical, and environmental factors.
![Photo of Timothy Malone, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1e23e59-ab42-4d1d-bec7-4bf5d89c9937/1/320x400.jpeg)
Currently Accepting New Clients: I help people who are going through life transitions work through the things that hold them back. If you feel like you just can't get out off a rut, maybe because you have a negative belief or experience that holds you back. If you the "not good enough" or like messages in your head, I can help. The fact is, you do deserve to live the life you want. I can help you work through these messages so you can leave them behind. I have been there myself. It's challenging to move forward sometimes, but it's so worth it, and you don't have to go it alone. I can. help Please feel free to reach out.
Currently Accepting New Clients: I help people who are going through life transitions work through the things that hold them back. If you feel like you just can't get out off a rut, maybe because you have a negative belief or experience that holds you back. If you the "not good enough" or like messages in your head, I can help. The fact is, you do deserve to live the life you want. I can help you work through these messages so you can leave them behind. I have been there myself. It's challenging to move forward sometimes, but it's so worth it, and you don't have to go it alone. I can. help Please feel free to reach out.
![Photo of Ken M. Loya, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/459570f4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ken M. Loya
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
I work with those hoping to get to know themselves better in order to improve relationships, increase productivity at work, and find greater satisfaction in their lives.
I work with those hoping to get to know themselves better in order to improve relationships, increase productivity at work, and find greater satisfaction in their lives.
![Photo of Marian A Willingham, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d6505b1-dbdb-4864-b7cb-0e84f6625420/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marian A Willingham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Are you seeking a safe theraputic environment where you can resolve issues, deal with internal emotional conflicts, heal and move forward in life? I can help you. In my private practice, I provide my clients with real help and real hope so you can recover and discover the person you were meant to be.
Are you seeking a safe theraputic environment where you can resolve issues, deal with internal emotional conflicts, heal and move forward in life? I can help you. In my private practice, I provide my clients with real help and real hope so you can recover and discover the person you were meant to be.
See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo
Nearby Searches for San Luis Obispo
- Arroyo Grande
- Atascadero
- Avila Beach
- Grover Beach
- Los Osos
- Morro Bay
- Nipomo
- Paso Robles
- Pismo Beach
- Santa Maria
- 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 |
79% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Self Esteem |
67% | Coping Skills |
65% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
49% | Aetna |
38% | Other |
36% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA see their clients
76% | In Person and Online | |
24% | 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.