Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA
![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.
![Photo of Rachael Henze, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/957306fa-4f3d-4cae-8a2f-fa60c6a472c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachael Henze
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
As a compassionate and empathetic human, I am interested in supporting individuals, couples, and families facing diverse challenges. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking greater self-awareness, I am here to listen without judgment and support you every step of the way. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
As a compassionate and empathetic human, I am interested in supporting individuals, couples, and families facing diverse challenges. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking greater self-awareness, I am here to listen without judgment and support you every step of the way. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
![Photo of Monique Hickmon, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e9c5006-5d3f-495e-be20-80288fe39ee9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Monique Hickmon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, isolated, hopeless or down? Now more than ever, people are questioning and exploring how they view themselves, others and the world. Therapy can help explore these difficult issues helping you find new solutions and perspective. Monique provides a calm, nurturing and safe environment while challenging you to reach your greatest potential. She genuinely listens and gives each person individualized therapy tailored to their specific needs and experiences. .
Are you feeling overwhelmed, isolated, hopeless or down? Now more than ever, people are questioning and exploring how they view themselves, others and the world. Therapy can help explore these difficult issues helping you find new solutions and perspective. Monique provides a calm, nurturing and safe environment while challenging you to reach your greatest potential. She genuinely listens and gives each person individualized therapy tailored to their specific needs and experiences. .
![Photo of Berthena Parrish, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bd20edf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Berthena Parrish
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
For over 30 years I have had the honor of working with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. My goal is to offer genuine compassion and understanding. Together we will look and what is not working for you right now and what change you hope for. Together we explore your needs and collaboratively come up with a plan for your therapy. I will support you in setting personal goals, developing healthy coping skills and learning effective communication.
For over 30 years I have had the honor of working with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. My goal is to offer genuine compassion and understanding. Together we will look and what is not working for you right now and what change you hope for. Together we explore your needs and collaboratively come up with a plan for your therapy. I will support you in setting personal goals, developing healthy coping skills and learning effective communication.
![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 Jennifer Hajdu, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd6fd654-c508-431f-b3e1-cb194bc90f05/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Hajdu
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Jennifer 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.
Jennifer 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 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 Erika Helene Torres, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37a0b613-028a-4a41-84d7-765e512860d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erika Helene Torres
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 16+ years of experience. I specialize in Couples Therapy, Anxiety/Depression, Maternal Mental Health, Parenting, Phase of Life issues, and Relationship and Occupational challenges. I work with clients throughout CA providing therapy via Telehealth, which allows you to meet from the comfort of your home, maximize your time, and reduces scheduling challenges. For additional information, please visit my website at www.erikatorreslmft.com
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 16+ years of experience. I specialize in Couples Therapy, Anxiety/Depression, Maternal Mental Health, Parenting, Phase of Life issues, and Relationship and Occupational challenges. I work with clients throughout CA providing therapy via Telehealth, which allows you to meet from the comfort of your home, maximize your time, and reduces scheduling challenges. For additional information, please visit my website at www.erikatorreslmft.com
![Photo of Dr. Sandra De Silva, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e383810d-0bd2-4040-b022-c51dea60cace/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome and congratulations on taking this step! My role in our work together would be to support you in reaching your life goals, help you know your true self and live your most joyous and authentic life. My approach is warm, active, solution- focused and goal- directed. I not only provide support and a listening ear, but also strategies and recommendations that create a clear path to desired change. Whether you want to feel better, deepen enjoyment of life and relationships, discover purpose and spiritual connection or design and live the life you envision, my therapeutic approach is a direct means to work towards such change.
Welcome and congratulations on taking this step! My role in our work together would be to support you in reaching your life goals, help you know your true self and live your most joyous and authentic life. My approach is warm, active, solution- focused and goal- directed. I not only provide support and a listening ear, but also strategies and recommendations that create a clear path to desired change. Whether you want to feel better, deepen enjoyment of life and relationships, discover purpose and spiritual connection or design and live the life you envision, my therapeutic approach is a direct means to work towards such change.
![Photo of Bettina Hodel, PhD, JD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cad5322f-e5db-47ba-8063-3123a26dda92/3/320x400.jpeg)
Bettina Hodel
Psychologist, PhD, JD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
You feel anxious and depressed. You are told that you are insecure or that you are always "on the edge".
You feel anxious and depressed. You are told that you are insecure or that you are always "on the edge".
![Photo of Leah DeRose - DeRose Therapy Group, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99520dca-3586-410f-a2e4-504c79208169/1/320x400.jpeg)
DeRose Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Reaching out for support takes courage and strength. As a practice we have created a process for you to have options that will provide the best therapeutic fit for you. We are a group with several skilled therapists that offer a range of therapeutic services. The heart of our work centers around supporting you to process through life struggles in order to heal and develop skills to work through those challenging life situations. We also provide integrative wellness services including med management, nutrition care and IV therapy. By working collaboratively with you we can provide the best outcome.
Reaching out for support takes courage and strength. As a practice we have created a process for you to have options that will provide the best therapeutic fit for you. We are a group with several skilled therapists that offer a range of therapeutic services. The heart of our work centers around supporting you to process through life struggles in order to heal and develop skills to work through those challenging life situations. We also provide integrative wellness services including med management, nutrition care and IV therapy. By working collaboratively with you we can provide the best outcome.
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![Photo of Christine Tran, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/108ae4dc-6586-45cb-bd32-b3d01b15b2df/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Tran
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Hello and welcome. I want to acknowledge how brave you are for being here and seeking help. It takes plenty of courage to seek out therapy and it's okay to feel vulnerable at this moment. Whether you are a parent looking to find support for your child or someone whose wanting to start therapy, I offer empathetic support and tools to cope with life's many stressors. I work with children, teens, young adults, and families to help address challenges with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, school/behavioral issues, divorce, and family trauma. My practice honors diversity and offers non-judgmental space for you to feel safe and heard.
Hello and welcome. I want to acknowledge how brave you are for being here and seeking help. It takes plenty of courage to seek out therapy and it's okay to feel vulnerable at this moment. Whether you are a parent looking to find support for your child or someone whose wanting to start therapy, I offer empathetic support and tools to cope with life's many stressors. I work with children, teens, young adults, and families to help address challenges with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, school/behavioral issues, divorce, and family trauma. My practice honors diversity and offers non-judgmental space for you to feel safe and heard.
![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 Kris Roudebush, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09873680-93bb-4f60-8929-47886bfd5d42/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kris Roudebush
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
Greetings! I'm Kris and I love facilitating therapeutic work with individuals and couples who are looking to explore, enhance, and heal various aspects of our complicated lives. My practice addresses life challenges using a holistic perspective, blending several treatment approaches. I am a Sex Therapist, and specialize in working with: clients with sexual traumas queer, trans and nonbinary folx, those experiencing sexual difficulties (whether personally or in their relationship), and those in seasons of change. As my client, I hope you'll find a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere.
Greetings! I'm Kris and I love facilitating therapeutic work with individuals and couples who are looking to explore, enhance, and heal various aspects of our complicated lives. My practice addresses life challenges using a holistic perspective, blending several treatment approaches. I am a Sex Therapist, and specialize in working with: clients with sexual traumas queer, trans and nonbinary folx, those experiencing sexual difficulties (whether personally or in their relationship), and those in seasons of change. As my client, I hope you'll find a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere.
![Photo of Sarah Park - Thrive San Luis Obispo, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bda59e98-c699-4d8c-9219-c7229290258d/1/320x400.jpeg)
We are a queer woman-owned practice. Each of our therapists is committed to engaging in collaborative person-centered care with a focus on meeting our you where you're at to come alongside and walk this healing journey with you. We chose the name Thrive because that's what we want for you, to not just survive this life but to truly be a Thriving human. Additionally, many of our providers identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community and we are committed to serving those within our community.
We are a queer woman-owned practice. Each of our therapists is committed to engaging in collaborative person-centered care with a focus on meeting our you where you're at to come alongside and walk this healing journey with you. We chose the name Thrive because that's what we want for you, to not just survive this life but to truly be a Thriving human. Additionally, many of our providers identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community and we are committed to serving those within our community.
![Photo of Julia Richardson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c75dd5d4-2958-4721-a1ec-6b41c7c4ad01/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Julia Richardson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California since January 1999. My License number is MFT35516. I work with children from age 10 and up. I also work with adolescents, adults, couples and families. My framework in working with individuals, couples and families is through a relational lens that incorporates brain science, attachment theory and mindsight. I see each (individual, couple dyad and family) as a magnificent portrait that comes to therapy when their life patterns are stuck in rigidity or chaos.
My name is Julia Richardson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California since January 1999. My License number is MFT35516. I work with children from age 10 and up. I also work with adolescents, adults, couples and families. My framework in working with individuals, couples and families is through a relational lens that incorporates brain science, attachment theory and mindsight. I see each (individual, couple dyad and family) as a magnificent portrait that comes to therapy when their life patterns are stuck in rigidity or chaos.
![Photo of Lisa Marie Huet - Seventh Wave Counseling-Lisa Huet, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/962e803c-8d50-431c-94f7-f377fe70e250/3/320x400.jpeg)
Seventh Wave Counseling-Lisa Huet, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Life brings some challenges to all of us and sorting these out can be difficult for the most competent of individuals. My hope is to help you find the clarity you seek so you can enjoy your life to the fullest by creating an accepting environment to support your journey to a better life. I have always been curious about people and what makes us think one way or another. I have had the opportunity to serve people in this area for over 20 years at different agencies and have worked with very diverse folks. I would love the opportunity to help you discover some unexplored part of yourself that can deepen satisfaction in your life.
Life brings some challenges to all of us and sorting these out can be difficult for the most competent of individuals. My hope is to help you find the clarity you seek so you can enjoy your life to the fullest by creating an accepting environment to support your journey to a better life. I have always been curious about people and what makes us think one way or another. I have had the opportunity to serve people in this area for over 20 years at different agencies and have worked with very diverse folks. I would love the opportunity to help you discover some unexplored part of yourself that can deepen satisfaction in your life.
![Photo of Kai Lillie, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f29f208d-312e-4b1d-a2ab-fe4be4c2f802/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kai Lillie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
What brings you here? If you are scrolling through these pages, you are likely looking for support, either for yourself or someone you care about. While it is easier now to find psychological support, finding the right person to work with is as important as ever. While working with me you will be received in a warm, non-judgmental, and curiosity filled environment. While considering what brought you into therapy, we will reflect on the circumstances contributing to where you are today. Our focus will be on integrating what has been in order to develop into what can be.
What brings you here? If you are scrolling through these pages, you are likely looking for support, either for yourself or someone you care about. While it is easier now to find psychological support, finding the right person to work with is as important as ever. While working with me you will be received in a warm, non-judgmental, and curiosity filled environment. While considering what brought you into therapy, we will reflect on the circumstances contributing to where you are today. Our focus will be on integrating what has been in order to develop into what can be.
![Photo of Matthew R Chirman, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c2e571c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Matthew R Chirman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
For the 22 last years I have worked successfully with adult clients dealing with a wide range of issues including marital and relationship problems, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, abuse issues, personality issues and mental health concerns. I believe a trusting relationship between the therapist and client is the foundation for all growth and change. However, the relationship itself is typically not sufficient. I will help you set goals for your therapy based upon what you would like to have different in your life, and together we will explore and change the blocks which have prevented you from achieving your goals.
For the 22 last years I have worked successfully with adult clients dealing with a wide range of issues including marital and relationship problems, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, abuse issues, personality issues and mental health concerns. I believe a trusting relationship between the therapist and client is the foundation for all growth and change. However, the relationship itself is typically not sufficient. I will help you set goals for your therapy based upon what you would like to have different in your life, and together we will explore and change the blocks which have prevented you from achieving your goals.
![Photo of Sarah Case, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/313c5502-c292-4124-8e2f-30beb019513a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling like you are at a crossroads in life? Going through a big life transition? Struggling with depression or anxiety? Desiring to experience better communication and connection with your partner? I provide a safe container for you to explore your inner life. In my work as a therapist I practice primarily from a depth somatic psychotherapy approach. A somatic approach is about using the your awareness of your present moment lived experience. I use a psychodynamic and somatic methodology incorporating aspects of mindfulness, breath awareness, and expressive arts therapy.
Are you feeling like you are at a crossroads in life? Going through a big life transition? Struggling with depression or anxiety? Desiring to experience better communication and connection with your partner? I provide a safe container for you to explore your inner life. In my work as a therapist I practice primarily from a depth somatic psychotherapy approach. A somatic approach is about using the your awareness of your present moment lived experience. I use a psychodynamic and somatic methodology incorporating aspects of mindfulness, breath awareness, and expressive arts therapy.
See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo
Nearby Searches for San Luis Obispo
- Arroyo Grande
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- Los Osos
- Morro Bay
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- 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.