Therapists in Alexandria, VA
![Photo of Cherie Taylor, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6268b4f-92a2-4b44-85ec-6b1c1566b375/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cherie Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314 (Online Only)
Congratulations on making a commitment to invest in your growth and positive life changes! Therapy isn't always easy, but if you are willing to do the work, I can provide the tools needed to help you be your best self. I have dedicated my professional career to helping people help themselves through life's biggest challenges. I have experience working with teens and adults in obtaining and maintaining every facet of healthy living. I adhere to a strengths-based, CBT approach that is client-centered and solution-focused.
Congratulations on making a commitment to invest in your growth and positive life changes! Therapy isn't always easy, but if you are willing to do the work, I can provide the tools needed to help you be your best self. I have dedicated my professional career to helping people help themselves through life's biggest challenges. I have experience working with teens and adults in obtaining and maintaining every facet of healthy living. I adhere to a strengths-based, CBT approach that is client-centered and solution-focused.
![Photo of Katie Shepherd, MSW, LICSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6f54f3b-4f3a-49b8-bfa5-f81dbfbcb0dc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Shepherd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CST
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22303 (Online Only)
I am dedicated to helping people realize their personal and relational potential. My expertise and passion is in sex and relationship therapy, and LGBTQ, kink, and polyamory friendly work. I specialize in issues of trauma, sexual assault and abuse, and domestic violence. I assist people in understanding their unhelpful thinking patterns, navigating healthy relationship dynamics, and difficulties in communication.
I am dedicated to helping people realize their personal and relational potential. My expertise and passion is in sex and relationship therapy, and LGBTQ, kink, and polyamory friendly work. I specialize in issues of trauma, sexual assault and abuse, and domestic violence. I assist people in understanding their unhelpful thinking patterns, navigating healthy relationship dynamics, and difficulties in communication.
![Photo of Julia Ahumada, MSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f18fa0d-084a-450b-9453-df8fd38d055e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Ahumada
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I'm Julia Ahumada, a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Virginia. I’m passionate about helping people overcome challenges and empowering them to lead the lives they desire. My therapeutic practice is rooted in a strengths-based and collaborative approach, starting with building a strong therapeutic alliance with each client. By offering unconditional positive regard and a non-judgmental space, I create an environment where clients feel safe to embark on a journey of self-discovery, exploring their strengths, challenges, and areas for growth.
Hello and welcome! I'm Julia Ahumada, a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Virginia. I’m passionate about helping people overcome challenges and empowering them to lead the lives they desire. My therapeutic practice is rooted in a strengths-based and collaborative approach, starting with building a strong therapeutic alliance with each client. By offering unconditional positive regard and a non-judgmental space, I create an environment where clients feel safe to embark on a journey of self-discovery, exploring their strengths, challenges, and areas for growth.
![Photo of Jennifer C Cann - Jennifer Cann, LCSW, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53eb6d51-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Cann, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
I am a licensed clinical social worker who works with adults, teens, and families to address a variety of therapeutic needs. Some areas of focus include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, parenting, relationship issues, grief and loss, self-esteem, domestic violence, divorce and trauma. Please contact me with questions or for a phone consult to determine if I would be a good match as a partner in therapy. I offer some weekend hours and evening hours and collaborate with other healing/medical professionals as needed for a more comprehensive approach to your care. The quickest way to reach me initially is to send an email.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who works with adults, teens, and families to address a variety of therapeutic needs. Some areas of focus include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, parenting, relationship issues, grief and loss, self-esteem, domestic violence, divorce and trauma. Please contact me with questions or for a phone consult to determine if I would be a good match as a partner in therapy. I offer some weekend hours and evening hours and collaborate with other healing/medical professionals as needed for a more comprehensive approach to your care. The quickest way to reach me initially is to send an email.
![Photo of Jordan L. Costen, MSW, QMHP-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/661e8aeb-13a4-47f4-9cf1-f3e0a4574804/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jordan L. Costen
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW, QMHP-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22304
Well, hello. I am glad you decided to meet. Let me pour you some tea or coffee and let’s discuss what is on your mind. Sometimes it can be pretty difficult to seek out help. Especially for those who either thought they didn’t need it or were convinced that their issues are manageable. That often occurs with members of the LGBTQ+ community. Regardless, you took the first step, as difficult as it may have been. As a next step I want to work with you and build trust. Once that has been established and you feel comfortable, we can address the items that cause you concern.
Well, hello. I am glad you decided to meet. Let me pour you some tea or coffee and let’s discuss what is on your mind. Sometimes it can be pretty difficult to seek out help. Especially for those who either thought they didn’t need it or were convinced that their issues are manageable. That often occurs with members of the LGBTQ+ community. Regardless, you took the first step, as difficult as it may have been. As a next step I want to work with you and build trust. Once that has been established and you feel comfortable, we can address the items that cause you concern.
![Photo of Ellen Klavan, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f630c733-3743-425f-9f2c-890d3c1f4f35/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you're thinking about starting therapy, you've already taken the first step toward making a change. I work with individuals and couples to help people move toward living more rewarding lives. Many of my clients are struggling with depression and/or anxiety. We work to reduce symptoms through simple interventions like mindfulness and breathing practice. At the same time, we journey together to understand the deeper meanings of your symptoms--whether they are biochemical, experiential (rooted in your past) or situational-the goal is to heal old wounds and change the current patterns that aren't serving you.
If you're thinking about starting therapy, you've already taken the first step toward making a change. I work with individuals and couples to help people move toward living more rewarding lives. Many of my clients are struggling with depression and/or anxiety. We work to reduce symptoms through simple interventions like mindfulness and breathing practice. At the same time, we journey together to understand the deeper meanings of your symptoms--whether they are biochemical, experiential (rooted in your past) or situational-the goal is to heal old wounds and change the current patterns that aren't serving you.
![Photo of Kristina Wallace, MA, LPC, CRC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80d16c16-55fb-4593-a1d1-a61b896cc5ba/4/320x400.jpeg)
Kristina Wallace
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22304 (Online Only)
Each of us are unique and so are our struggles. As unique as we are, there are times in our lives when we feel challenged, stuck, exhausted, overwhelmed, or lost. It can be beneficial to seek help from someone outside our situations to help us find ways to make positive change and move through these trying times. I see adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families navigating stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, life changes and transitions, relationships, and grief. Sessions take place in a warm, supportive, and non-judgemental tele-health atmosphere.
Each of us are unique and so are our struggles. As unique as we are, there are times in our lives when we feel challenged, stuck, exhausted, overwhelmed, or lost. It can be beneficial to seek help from someone outside our situations to help us find ways to make positive change and move through these trying times. I see adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families navigating stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, life changes and transitions, relationships, and grief. Sessions take place in a warm, supportive, and non-judgemental tele-health atmosphere.
![Photo of Brooke Buck, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1c526e2-b503-4f6a-a4af-65aa554c517f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brooke Buck
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22304
Waitlist for new clients
Are you having a hard time figuring out what is going on with your relationships with others? Do you have recurring or consistent negative thoughts and feelings about yourself and your future? Are you feeling helpless even though you know you should be doing ok? My name is Brooke Buck and I am here to assist you in breaking down the walls of communication and rebuild them the way you have always wanted to. I work hard to listen and help to provide a different perspective to my clients.
Are you having a hard time figuring out what is going on with your relationships with others? Do you have recurring or consistent negative thoughts and feelings about yourself and your future? Are you feeling helpless even though you know you should be doing ok? My name is Brooke Buck and I am here to assist you in breaking down the walls of communication and rebuild them the way you have always wanted to. I work hard to listen and help to provide a different perspective to my clients.
![Photo of LaShawn R. Fisher - A Place of Peace, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3db42071-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
A Place of Peace
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
I have 25+ years experience in the Counseling field working in the areas of mental health, substance abuse, corrections and leadership. My ideal client is anyone who is at a stuck point in their lives and need support and guidance to assist them in moving forward no matter the problem. I offer Counseling and Psychotherapy Services to address: Relationship Issues, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Work/Home Stress, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Healing from Current and Past Trauma, Interpersonal Relations, Parenting, Self-Esteem, Women's Issues, and other impasses. My treatment modalities are Individual and Family Counseling.
I have 25+ years experience in the Counseling field working in the areas of mental health, substance abuse, corrections and leadership. My ideal client is anyone who is at a stuck point in their lives and need support and guidance to assist them in moving forward no matter the problem. I offer Counseling and Psychotherapy Services to address: Relationship Issues, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Work/Home Stress, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Healing from Current and Past Trauma, Interpersonal Relations, Parenting, Self-Esteem, Women's Issues, and other impasses. My treatment modalities are Individual and Family Counseling.
![Photo of Chesley H Simpson, LCSW, GC-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/553992cd-ca3b-48b3-84c3-3654125cf6f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chesley H Simpson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, GC-C
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22308 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Grief Counselor. I have been working in the field of loss, grief and life transitions since 2014. Grief is a normal, human reaction and can arise out of retirement, loss of safety after a trauma, or loss of some fundamental element of your identity. As a clinician, I have extensive experience working with clients who have experienced various types of grief and loss. I have a true passion for this work of helping others through life transitions and finding hope again.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Grief Counselor. I have been working in the field of loss, grief and life transitions since 2014. Grief is a normal, human reaction and can arise out of retirement, loss of safety after a trauma, or loss of some fundamental element of your identity. As a clinician, I have extensive experience working with clients who have experienced various types of grief and loss. I have a true passion for this work of helping others through life transitions and finding hope again.
![Photo of Shirria McCullough, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dae5629f-b18b-44ee-9358-15adbf1300d1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shirria McCullough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304 (Online Only)
I’m a mother of 5 and an introvert! As an introvert, I spend more than enough time in my own head, thinking of what I could have done differently, questioning my life decisions, and ways to better develop myself. At the age of 25, I got my “life together” in 2006 following the death of my brother. His death made my mortality a reality and the thought of leaving my 3 children without anything if I passed, I got myself “together.” I received my Bachelor in Social Work from Barton College 2008, Master in Social Work from East Carolina University 2012 and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2014.
I’m a mother of 5 and an introvert! As an introvert, I spend more than enough time in my own head, thinking of what I could have done differently, questioning my life decisions, and ways to better develop myself. At the age of 25, I got my “life together” in 2006 following the death of my brother. His death made my mortality a reality and the thought of leaving my 3 children without anything if I passed, I got myself “together.” I received my Bachelor in Social Work from Barton College 2008, Master in Social Work from East Carolina University 2012 and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2014.
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![Photo of Sarah Douglas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71c522b6-bd4e-412a-8ed7-357a5280e60f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Douglas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314 (Online Only)
Living with a chronic illness can be isolating and undeniably difficult. There are physical, psychological, and social challenges that no person should have to endure alone. Tending to your mental health is an important step toward living a full and meaningful life despite the complexities of chronic conditions.
Living with a chronic illness can be isolating and undeniably difficult. There are physical, psychological, and social challenges that no person should have to endure alone. Tending to your mental health is an important step toward living a full and meaningful life despite the complexities of chronic conditions.
![Photo of Keshanda Garland, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6372aed8-7867-43fb-b9d0-a75f47bccdc8/1/320x400.png)
My name is Keshanda Garland. Please feel free to call me Kesha. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. and a Virginia Native. I have over 15 years of experience working with clients who have mental health issues. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents, and my specialty lies in working with clients with anxiety disorders, panic attacks, depression, stress and relationship issues, and trauma-related disorders. I am dedicated to helping her client's foster growth and healing through a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
My name is Keshanda Garland. Please feel free to call me Kesha. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. and a Virginia Native. I have over 15 years of experience working with clients who have mental health issues. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents, and my specialty lies in working with clients with anxiety disorders, panic attacks, depression, stress and relationship issues, and trauma-related disorders. I am dedicated to helping her client's foster growth and healing through a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Anna Clay Bailey, MA, LPC, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54b5f80d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Clay Bailey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
I understand that reaching out to schedule the initial therapy session can be intimidating. For this reason, my priority in session is to provide a safe and confidential therapeutic space for my clients in which they can share their challenges and feel heard and understood. My counseling experience includes assisting individuals with life transitions, anxiety, communication skills, depression, stress management, relationship difficulties, and addictive behaviors. I have worked in a variety of settings, including private practice, hospice care, mental health agencies, schools, and out-patient substance abuse treatment settings.
I understand that reaching out to schedule the initial therapy session can be intimidating. For this reason, my priority in session is to provide a safe and confidential therapeutic space for my clients in which they can share their challenges and feel heard and understood. My counseling experience includes assisting individuals with life transitions, anxiety, communication skills, depression, stress management, relationship difficulties, and addictive behaviors. I have worked in a variety of settings, including private practice, hospice care, mental health agencies, schools, and out-patient substance abuse treatment settings.
![Photo of Bonnie Kuo, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24741f6f-736d-4ace-987f-b11edfd71a32/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bonnie Kuo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22301 (Online Only)
NOTE: I am currently accepting clients who are interested in EMDR work. As a licensed professional counselor, I work with young adults and adults seeking progress and healing in anxiety, depression, trauma, identity development, substance use, life transitions, and career development. I am trained in EMDR, and I look to support clients who desire to gain insights into past events impacting current life experiences. Whether you seek a compassionate space to reflect, grow, or heal, I will take the time and care to support your journey.
NOTE: I am currently accepting clients who are interested in EMDR work. As a licensed professional counselor, I work with young adults and adults seeking progress and healing in anxiety, depression, trauma, identity development, substance use, life transitions, and career development. I am trained in EMDR, and I look to support clients who desire to gain insights into past events impacting current life experiences. Whether you seek a compassionate space to reflect, grow, or heal, I will take the time and care to support your journey.
![Photo of Anna Alberson, MSW, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3049cb41-71a5-4ab2-b130-dee442a12a79/2/320x400.png)
I use a nonjudgmental, holistic and person-centered approach to aid clients in developing healthy coping skills to deal with anxiety, depression, disordered eating/body image, grief, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions and maladaptive behaviors. I help clients identify and utilize strengths to combat negative thoughts, emotions and behaviors in a warm, safe and nurturing environment.
I use a nonjudgmental, holistic and person-centered approach to aid clients in developing healthy coping skills to deal with anxiety, depression, disordered eating/body image, grief, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions and maladaptive behaviors. I help clients identify and utilize strengths to combat negative thoughts, emotions and behaviors in a warm, safe and nurturing environment.
![Photo of Sean Walsh, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46d89919-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Understanding the causes of anxiety, depression, and other types of psychological suffering by increasing self-awareness is the key to navigating life's challenges. With years of experience in clinical practice and academia, I've had the privilege of assisting individuals from various walks of life in navigating their psychological challenges. My approach to therapy is based on empathic attunement, fostering self-awareness, and empirically supported approaches tailored to the needs of each person. I am committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings openly.
Understanding the causes of anxiety, depression, and other types of psychological suffering by increasing self-awareness is the key to navigating life's challenges. With years of experience in clinical practice and academia, I've had the privilege of assisting individuals from various walks of life in navigating their psychological challenges. My approach to therapy is based on empathic attunement, fostering self-awareness, and empirically supported approaches tailored to the needs of each person. I am committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings openly.
![Photo of Felicea Robinson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de0bf0b4-6f10-4a6a-91c9-c662fa3c0b94/1/320x400.png)
Felicea Robinson is a dynamic Resident in Counseling that is dedicated to promoting emotional recovery, healing, and wholeness. Felicea is passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults address their challenges and live drama and stress-free lives. Felicea specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, self-esteem, stress management, and mood disorders.
Felicea Robinson is a dynamic Resident in Counseling that is dedicated to promoting emotional recovery, healing, and wholeness. Felicea is passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults address their challenges and live drama and stress-free lives. Felicea specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, self-esteem, stress management, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Kimberly Folden, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c399bfb5-d03c-42e0-b9cd-745e92644e78/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Folden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22304 (Online Only)
**Virtual Therapist** We at Finding Clarity believe your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health and well being. Just as you would see your primary doctor to maintain your physical health, counseling is here to help maintain your emotional health. I understand the need to have a healed sense of self to address the ever-changing world. I utilize a strengths-based client-centered approach, trauma-informed treatment, and cognitive-behavioral techniques with my clients to promote healing and wellness.
**Virtual Therapist** We at Finding Clarity believe your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health and well being. Just as you would see your primary doctor to maintain your physical health, counseling is here to help maintain your emotional health. I understand the need to have a healed sense of self to address the ever-changing world. I utilize a strengths-based client-centered approach, trauma-informed treatment, and cognitive-behavioral techniques with my clients to promote healing and wellness.
![Photo of Kristie Hayes, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f2eea54-98b3-4598-bc2b-0982ef838096/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristie Hayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
My process begins with a comprehensive assessment, as it is important for me to gain an in depth understanding of your unique story. This allows us to collaboratively develop goals that are tailored specifically to your needs and preferences. Whether you are seeking support and coping skills for navigating challenging situations, struggling with building and maintaining healthy relationships, or experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression, I can offer you an empathic and non-judgmental environment to assist you in developing tools for coping and growth.
My process begins with a comprehensive assessment, as it is important for me to gain an in depth understanding of your unique story. This allows us to collaboratively develop goals that are tailored specifically to your needs and preferences. Whether you are seeking support and coping skills for navigating challenging situations, struggling with building and maintaining healthy relationships, or experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression, I can offer you an empathic and non-judgmental environment to assist you in developing tools for coping and growth.
See more therapy options for Alexandria
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Alexandria, VA
1,000+
Average cost per session
$160
Therapists in Alexandria, VA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
76% | Self Esteem |
76% | Stress |
73% | Relationship Issues |
71% | Coping Skills |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
73% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
72% | Cigna and Evernorth |
67% | Aetna |
How Therapists in Alexandria, VA see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
86% | Female | |
13% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Alexandria?
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.