Therapists in Salt Lake City, UT
![Photo of Alison Wheatley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35d9a814-d1be-4d55-b1bb-a695e36b5318/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in the power of a strong therapeutic relationship, and the inherent resilience and strength each person holds. I work from a trauma-informed and psychodynamic perspective, understanding that life's experiences shape and impact who we are and how we function immensely. Through these various experiences, many of us develop maladaptive coping strategies and unhelpful beliefs, and have lost sight of our resilience and inner knowing. We each have the ability to redirect our faulty beliefs, and to know and trust ourselves again. It's never too late to find new meaning and connection, and to create a life worth living.
I believe in the power of a strong therapeutic relationship, and the inherent resilience and strength each person holds. I work from a trauma-informed and psychodynamic perspective, understanding that life's experiences shape and impact who we are and how we function immensely. Through these various experiences, many of us develop maladaptive coping strategies and unhelpful beliefs, and have lost sight of our resilience and inner knowing. We each have the ability to redirect our faulty beliefs, and to know and trust ourselves again. It's never too late to find new meaning and connection, and to create a life worth living.
![Photo of Natalie Montanez - Taino Counseling, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3761ffc6-c248-4045-99a1-3bcc2f1a1be1/1/320x400.png)
Begin your path to healing in a secure and supportive environment at Taíno Counseling. We offer therapy tailored for individuals, relationships, and families. We are dedicated to helping clients address issues such as trauma, neurodivergence, addiction, depression, anxiety, and the unique challenges faced by BIPOC communities. We believe the therapeutic journey is a collaborative process meant to empower clients to strengthen their ability to navigate the world and whatever challenges may arise along the way. As such, we believe that therapy must be intersectional and honor the impact that each of our lived experiences has on us.
Begin your path to healing in a secure and supportive environment at Taíno Counseling. We offer therapy tailored for individuals, relationships, and families. We are dedicated to helping clients address issues such as trauma, neurodivergence, addiction, depression, anxiety, and the unique challenges faced by BIPOC communities. We believe the therapeutic journey is a collaborative process meant to empower clients to strengthen their ability to navigate the world and whatever challenges may arise along the way. As such, we believe that therapy must be intersectional and honor the impact that each of our lived experiences has on us.
![Photo of Amanda Downs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e28936e-dc8d-4626-b41f-dda7a15f767a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Downs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84108 (Online Only)
Deciding who we are and who we want to be can be rough; having a judgment-free space to talk through it can provide peace of mind. I am passionate about helping people navigate their identity journeys which may include: career changes, family dynamics, relationships, sexuality, and faith transitions.
Deciding who we are and who we want to be can be rough; having a judgment-free space to talk through it can provide peace of mind. I am passionate about helping people navigate their identity journeys which may include: career changes, family dynamics, relationships, sexuality, and faith transitions.
![Photo of Brittany Bullen, ACMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/796688b7-79ff-406b-b68d-b59bfdccd2e4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Overwhelmed with emotions or thoughts you’re not sure what to do with? Let’s explore what fulfillment, self-worth, and success mean to you—so you can live a life that truly suits your unique needs and personality. Using an eclectic mix of modalities like EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS), you’ll discover your inner strengths and embrace a more intuitive way of living. Whether dealing with trauma, transitions, relationship issues, or personal pain, you’ll gain practical tools and insights to help you heal, build and maintain a deeply fulfilling life.
Overwhelmed with emotions or thoughts you’re not sure what to do with? Let’s explore what fulfillment, self-worth, and success mean to you—so you can live a life that truly suits your unique needs and personality. Using an eclectic mix of modalities like EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS), you’ll discover your inner strengths and embrace a more intuitive way of living. Whether dealing with trauma, transitions, relationship issues, or personal pain, you’ll gain practical tools and insights to help you heal, build and maintain a deeply fulfilling life.
![Photo of Michael L Ray - 7th Street Treatment Center, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6696ac-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am dedicated to helping individuals who struggle with addiction and co-occurring mental illness receive the help needed to recover and live happy, fulfilling lives. With over 60 years' combined experience working in the field of recovery, I and my Treatment Team offer exceptional care at an affordable price. 7th Street offers 9 consecutive months of Outpatient Program following Residential care. During that time, clients may live in our Sober Living facilities, with Salt Lake County rent support, based on individual eligibility. We help our clients form a strong lifetime sober support network of like-minded individuals.
I am dedicated to helping individuals who struggle with addiction and co-occurring mental illness receive the help needed to recover and live happy, fulfilling lives. With over 60 years' combined experience working in the field of recovery, I and my Treatment Team offer exceptional care at an affordable price. 7th Street offers 9 consecutive months of Outpatient Program following Residential care. During that time, clients may live in our Sober Living facilities, with Salt Lake County rent support, based on individual eligibility. We help our clients form a strong lifetime sober support network of like-minded individuals.
![Photo of Karolanne Carter, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48aacf2a-9498-41dc-b1e4-4f5c9506f004/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have a passion for helping children, teens and their families successfully navigate life challenges and learn to thrive through play. I use a neurodiversity-affirming lens and play therapy modalities to create a safe space where children can express and process their inner world. With a focus on developing self-compassion and resiliency, I work collaboratively with clients to identify strengths and help children and teens brainstorm creative solutions on their own, cope with challenging situations, effectively communicate with adults and peers, and learn to regulate their emotions.
I have a passion for helping children, teens and their families successfully navigate life challenges and learn to thrive through play. I use a neurodiversity-affirming lens and play therapy modalities to create a safe space where children can express and process their inner world. With a focus on developing self-compassion and resiliency, I work collaboratively with clients to identify strengths and help children and teens brainstorm creative solutions on their own, cope with challenging situations, effectively communicate with adults and peers, and learn to regulate their emotions.
![Photo of Hallie Yurick - Cottonwood Movement Therapy, MA, CMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04db08fe-7757-4c2e-bfa0-51c2fb93d248/4/320x400.jpeg)
Cottonwood Movement Therapy
Counselor, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84121
Ready for a transformative therapy experience? Embark on a journey by walking and talking in nature as well as in an office. Collaboratively, we'll heal anxiety, depression, grief, and dissatisfaction underlying your feelings, thoughts, and actions. We unravel patterns and delve into spiritual crises. We create new practices for lasting healing. Customized with yoga and nature walks. Ready to dive deep for holistic well-being? Contact Hallie now.
Ready for a transformative therapy experience? Embark on a journey by walking and talking in nature as well as in an office. Collaboratively, we'll heal anxiety, depression, grief, and dissatisfaction underlying your feelings, thoughts, and actions. We unravel patterns and delve into spiritual crises. We create new practices for lasting healing. Customized with yoga and nature walks. Ready to dive deep for holistic well-being? Contact Hallie now.
![Photo of Sarah Windes, CMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/546a4689-f642-4dfa-bdbf-6585fa7dcc4a/1/320x400.jpeg)
When we find ourselves in a whirlwind, losing our sense of direction, it can be disorienting. We may lose connection to the part of us that knows what to do and where to go. We may be losing the battle with relentless looping thoughts, struggling to prioritize our own needs while being in relationship to others, and/or lacking the empowerment to make lasting change. There may be parts of our story that we would like to disown. Losing trust in ourselves, we become disconnected from our heart, confused by our own minds, and afraid to face what is next in life.
When we find ourselves in a whirlwind, losing our sense of direction, it can be disorienting. We may lose connection to the part of us that knows what to do and where to go. We may be losing the battle with relentless looping thoughts, struggling to prioritize our own needs while being in relationship to others, and/or lacking the empowerment to make lasting change. There may be parts of our story that we would like to disown. Losing trust in ourselves, we become disconnected from our heart, confused by our own minds, and afraid to face what is next in life.
![Photo of Christina Scharmer, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c04f6af-d3ed-48da-a100-194768c4e40f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am accepting new clients in person in Salt Lake City and via telehealth! I am a clinical psychologist with specific training and experience providing specialized care for children, teens, and adults with eating disorders, OCD, problematic exercise, anxiety, and depression. I love working collaboratively with clients to meet their goals and get back on track. I start with a thorough assessment and work with you to develop a goals and a treatment plan. I also value interdisciplinary collaboration with other providers when appropriate.
I am accepting new clients in person in Salt Lake City and via telehealth! I am a clinical psychologist with specific training and experience providing specialized care for children, teens, and adults with eating disorders, OCD, problematic exercise, anxiety, and depression. I love working collaboratively with clients to meet their goals and get back on track. I start with a thorough assessment and work with you to develop a goals and a treatment plan. I also value interdisciplinary collaboration with other providers when appropriate.
![Photo of Jerry Buie, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/337d55a0-a3e6-48da-ab32-b04fc289c5f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jerry Buie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84106
Jerry Buie/Pride Counseling: Where LGBTQIA+ community finds a haven to nurture mental wellness and unleash their full potential. Jerry empowers individuals to navigate their unique journeys, fostering growth, and enabling them to step confidently into the life they envision. At Pride Counseling, I’m committed to providing tailored support that aligns with the diverse needs and goals of everyone within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, ensuring a transformative and fulfilling counseling experience. Although designed to specifically support the LGBTQIA+ community, all are welcome.
Jerry Buie/Pride Counseling: Where LGBTQIA+ community finds a haven to nurture mental wellness and unleash their full potential. Jerry empowers individuals to navigate their unique journeys, fostering growth, and enabling them to step confidently into the life they envision. At Pride Counseling, I’m committed to providing tailored support that aligns with the diverse needs and goals of everyone within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, ensuring a transformative and fulfilling counseling experience. Although designed to specifically support the LGBTQIA+ community, all are welcome.
![Photo of Casey Paul Fife, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9478b6b8-ca3d-4108-a4f4-452bf1f6773b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Casey Paul Fife
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84107
I believe that therapy is a journey that the therapist and client travel together and am passionate about empowering my clients to find their own unique strengths as they work toward their goals. I offer multiple therapeutic modalities and customize sessions to best fit my clients’ needs. These include, CBT, Motivational Interviewing and DBT. Together we can help you discover and work toward what is most important to you.
I believe that therapy is a journey that the therapist and client travel together and am passionate about empowering my clients to find their own unique strengths as they work toward their goals. I offer multiple therapeutic modalities and customize sessions to best fit my clients’ needs. These include, CBT, Motivational Interviewing and DBT. Together we can help you discover and work toward what is most important to you.
15 Second Videos
Amanda Downs
Cottonwood Movement Therapy
Jerry Buie
Relationships Specialists
Brent Pace
Salt Lake Weight Counseling
Ripple Counseling and Consultation PLLC
Grisel Lopez-Escobar
Kristy Morell
Grace Larson
Stevan Lopes
Rehna Schuyler
Will DeJohn
Ann Gammell Cook
Liberated Mind Counseling and Health Center
Heather H Holmgren
Haley Choice-Tapia
Caroline Alyce Kellough
Julian Moon
Nick Rowe
Brian Z. Andelin
Michele D Catten
Sandra Chacon
Jason Stevens
Matthew Maya
Melinda Stonecliffe
Lyly Gonoratskiy
Lauren Moriarty
Josh Kaplan - OCD, Anxiety & Depression Specialist
Jordan Rullo
Davis VanderVeen
Candice Townsend
Adam Love
Sunny Strasburg, LMFT, P.C.
Kate Dixon
Full Circle Yoga & Therapy
Eric Einhorn
Claudette Barragan
Ryan Chai
David Kolker
Cody Lockyer
Andy Johnston
Brandon Yabko
Erin Drum
Helen Marie De-Lovely
Therapy Collective
Outpatient Behavioral Health
Jasmine Fitzsimmons
James Michael Preston
Valerie Murphy
![Photo of Lauren Masuda, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd6f3340-34a0-4c3e-8eac-1d997a80d2c2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Masuda
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Waitlist for new clients
I strive to create a warm, collaborative, and safe environment where you can explore your concerns, goals, and desires for creating the change you seek. I specialize in working with people who want relief from 1) life stress related to work or relationship difficulties 2) anxiety or overanalyzing 3) depression or lack of motivation 4) grief or trauma 5) self-criticism 6) aging or caregiving 7) chronic illness/health concerns.
I strive to create a warm, collaborative, and safe environment where you can explore your concerns, goals, and desires for creating the change you seek. I specialize in working with people who want relief from 1) life stress related to work or relationship difficulties 2) anxiety or overanalyzing 3) depression or lack of motivation 4) grief or trauma 5) self-criticism 6) aging or caregiving 7) chronic illness/health concerns.
![Photo of Elaine Navar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e152a09-cba3-407c-978a-30130eea4705/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elaine Navar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84101 (Online Only)
As a therapist, I focus on trauma, depression, anxiety, domestic violence, and grief and loss. I’m committed to helping individuals understand how personal experiences impact how we perceive ourselves, how they can affect our potential for growth and healing. My clinical approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
As a therapist, I focus on trauma, depression, anxiety, domestic violence, and grief and loss. I’m committed to helping individuals understand how personal experiences impact how we perceive ourselves, how they can affect our potential for growth and healing. My clinical approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
![Photo of Halley Gordon, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddf92b39-e09c-438e-bb45-367a146814a5/1/320x400.png)
As a therapist intern at RMC Counseling, working under the supervision of Abi Nash, I bring a diverse background and a deep commitment to fostering healing. Graduating from the University of Utah in 2022 with dual degrees in Psychology and Criminology, my journey has been shaped by a range of experiences, including roles as a daycare worker, preschool teacher, and residential treatment staff member. Throughout my educational and professional endeavors, I discovered a profound passion for creating brave spaces that empower children and teenagers to learn and grow. I am currently working towards my Master's degree in Social Work.
As a therapist intern at RMC Counseling, working under the supervision of Abi Nash, I bring a diverse background and a deep commitment to fostering healing. Graduating from the University of Utah in 2022 with dual degrees in Psychology and Criminology, my journey has been shaped by a range of experiences, including roles as a daycare worker, preschool teacher, and residential treatment staff member. Throughout my educational and professional endeavors, I discovered a profound passion for creating brave spaces that empower children and teenagers to learn and grow. I am currently working towards my Master's degree in Social Work.
![Photo of Matt Larson, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c37d715-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matt Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
I offer hope, genuineness, trust and a safe environment to work through, analyze and decrease symptoms. I specialize in individual, couples and family psychotherapy. See full profile @ www.mattlarsontherapy.com CRISIS INTERVENTION Help Now! IN PERSON & TELEHEALTH (online confidential/safe)....text 801-599-6396 to discuss! My hope during tough times!
I offer hope, genuineness, trust and a safe environment to work through, analyze and decrease symptoms. I specialize in individual, couples and family psychotherapy. See full profile @ www.mattlarsontherapy.com CRISIS INTERVENTION Help Now! IN PERSON & TELEHEALTH (online confidential/safe)....text 801-599-6396 to discuss! My hope during tough times!
![Photo of Christine McAllister, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecc147ca-8ecd-4cda-b8cb-c62b2d3225b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine McAllister
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84115
Hi hi! I’m Christine! Having experienced complex trauma and inherited many of the mental illnesses of my family, I have the life experience to understand your difficulties. My approach to therapy is transparent, open, and honest. I will help you understand and accept yourself so that you see paths forward in your life. I’m queer, kink, and polyamory-affirming. My mental health education, training, and early work experience have been rewarding for both me and my clients. I am ready to meet you, whoever you are, and wherever you are in life.
Hi hi! I’m Christine! Having experienced complex trauma and inherited many of the mental illnesses of my family, I have the life experience to understand your difficulties. My approach to therapy is transparent, open, and honest. I will help you understand and accept yourself so that you see paths forward in your life. I’m queer, kink, and polyamory-affirming. My mental health education, training, and early work experience have been rewarding for both me and my clients. I am ready to meet you, whoever you are, and wherever you are in life.
![Photo of Sloane Rampton - Sloane Rampton, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cca6319-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sloane Rampton, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84106
Daily life can be scary, even daunting. For some of us, we have the additional stressors of trauma, loss, loneliness, addiction and loss of purpose. In therapy I strive to help individuals overcome their barriers. Happiness and balance are goals for me. I have experience treating addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief, relationship issues and more. Whether you view current barriers to be day to day stressors or intense trauma and PTSD, I can provide support, caring and understanding. My goal is for all of my clients to regain their purpose, feel connection and find more happiness in their lives.
Daily life can be scary, even daunting. For some of us, we have the additional stressors of trauma, loss, loneliness, addiction and loss of purpose. In therapy I strive to help individuals overcome their barriers. Happiness and balance are goals for me. I have experience treating addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief, relationship issues and more. Whether you view current barriers to be day to day stressors or intense trauma and PTSD, I can provide support, caring and understanding. My goal is for all of my clients to regain their purpose, feel connection and find more happiness in their lives.
![Photo of Jason Schulz, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7bf44df-10fe-4c1c-b165-afe2fd2deff6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jason Schulz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84115 (Online Only)
Without careful attention and healing, distressing experiences can stay in the mind and body throughout a lifetime, causing intense emotional and physical pain that can make life very difficult. The great news is that real healing is possible — working with a trusted therapist can provide enormous, long-lasting relief. I believe in building a strong alliance with my clients, creating a safe environment to process trauma, anxiety, sadness, loss, or relationship issues.
Without careful attention and healing, distressing experiences can stay in the mind and body throughout a lifetime, causing intense emotional and physical pain that can make life very difficult. The great news is that real healing is possible — working with a trusted therapist can provide enormous, long-lasting relief. I believe in building a strong alliance with my clients, creating a safe environment to process trauma, anxiety, sadness, loss, or relationship issues.
![Photo of Kenzie Larsen, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a86a7d77-ed79-4d13-8e13-cf4a91f64fd5/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a therapist, I am known to be relational, even-keeled, and collaborative. My approach is dynamic and personable. I help clients attune to their needs, learn how to ground themselves when overwhelmed and overexerted, regain trust and confidence in their abilities, and find opportunities for more meaningful connections. For some, this involves specific skill-building, social coaching, exposure, or trauma work; for others, this involves simply holding the space to talk it out.
As a therapist, I am known to be relational, even-keeled, and collaborative. My approach is dynamic and personable. I help clients attune to their needs, learn how to ground themselves when overwhelmed and overexerted, regain trust and confidence in their abilities, and find opportunities for more meaningful connections. For some, this involves specific skill-building, social coaching, exposure, or trauma work; for others, this involves simply holding the space to talk it out.
![Photo of Taryn Heart - Relationships Specialists, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83001ddc-a780-416d-b4b1-66171932f1bd/2/320x400.jpeg)
As an agency we have been supporting people via online sessions, with everything that falls “outside the box”. If you are encountering relationship problems, you may have found that it is easier to procrastinate rather than to seek the relationship advice and tools that you need. You may have even been waiting to seek consulting or coaching services for years. Meanwhile your relationship difficulties have only been getting worse. Our consulting services are designed to help you communicate better and make sustainable changes that will benefit you and your family throughout your lives to come back to loving one another.
As an agency we have been supporting people via online sessions, with everything that falls “outside the box”. If you are encountering relationship problems, you may have found that it is easier to procrastinate rather than to seek the relationship advice and tools that you need. You may have even been waiting to seek consulting or coaching services for years. Meanwhile your relationship difficulties have only been getting worse. Our consulting services are designed to help you communicate better and make sustainable changes that will benefit you and your family throughout your lives to come back to loving one another.
See more therapy options for Salt Lake City
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Salt Lake City, UT
1,000+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Salt Lake City, UT who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Relationship Issues |
70% | Self Esteem |
68% | Stress |
62% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
66% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
58% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
58% | SelectHealth |
How Therapists in Salt Lake City, UT see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
28% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Salt Lake City?
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.