Therapists in Lees Summit, MO
![Photo of Krista Gomez Gonzalez, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0930f357-690f-4499-a635-b7be78aeaefd/2/320x400.png)
Krista Gomez Gonzalez
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64064
Accepting new clients! People seek counseling for a variety of reasons. Whether you find yourself wanting to heal from previous painful or traumatic experiences, desiring to reconnect with your true and authentic self, seeking new ways to interact with yourself and others, or looking to explore your fears and what holds you back, I would be honored to come alongside you in your journey towards transformation. I believe that each person is an expert on themselves and that my role is to provide a safe space to help others uncover their own insights and needs. Together, we can gently work towards healing and integration.
Accepting new clients! People seek counseling for a variety of reasons. Whether you find yourself wanting to heal from previous painful or traumatic experiences, desiring to reconnect with your true and authentic self, seeking new ways to interact with yourself and others, or looking to explore your fears and what holds you back, I would be honored to come alongside you in your journey towards transformation. I believe that each person is an expert on themselves and that my role is to provide a safe space to help others uncover their own insights and needs. Together, we can gently work towards healing and integration.
![Photo of Josh O’Hora, MA, PLPC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d21b915-0666-4d20-a4ca-5aa26792891a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Josh O’Hora
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64086
Life never seems to slow down and it can be difficult to take the time to prioritize meaningful, lasting change. I am thankful you are here. While it is uncomfortable to let someone see how you are struggling, I will join you where you are and we will walk through this together. I have extensive experience working with adolescents trying to find their way, people struggling with various addictions, individuals working through anxiety and/or depression, couples who need to resolve past hurts and develop tools for improved relational satisfaction, and many others.
Life never seems to slow down and it can be difficult to take the time to prioritize meaningful, lasting change. I am thankful you are here. While it is uncomfortable to let someone see how you are struggling, I will join you where you are and we will walk through this together. I have extensive experience working with adolescents trying to find their way, people struggling with various addictions, individuals working through anxiety and/or depression, couples who need to resolve past hurts and develop tools for improved relational satisfaction, and many others.
![Photo of Mary Short, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfaa956e-93d8-409b-9c70-dd2e7948d369/1/320x400.png)
Mary Short
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64086 (Online Only)
My name is Mary Kate Short and I am fully licensed in Missouri and Kansas. I primarily see children, families, young adults, and couples. I am in the process of becoming a Registered Play Therapist and am Level One Gottman certified couples therapist. Having experience in the hospital, school, and private practice has given me the experience and empathy needed to see clients from all backgrounds and walks of life.
My name is Mary Kate Short and I am fully licensed in Missouri and Kansas. I primarily see children, families, young adults, and couples. I am in the process of becoming a Registered Play Therapist and am Level One Gottman certified couples therapist. Having experience in the hospital, school, and private practice has given me the experience and empathy needed to see clients from all backgrounds and walks of life.
![Photo of Katlin Huskey - Accepting New Clients!, BS , MS, CIT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26fd688b-b176-44ef-9bf0-61fc70c065ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katlin Huskey - Accepting New Clients!
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS , MS, CIT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64063
“Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they’re never weakness.” - Brene Brown. You might be experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, self-esteem issues, or relational issues. I am here to help you make the changes you would like to make, to help you learn more about yourself, and to strengthen your relationships so you can know yourself as whole and safe and can experience a positive quality of life!. I treat clients of all different ages and backgrounds.!
“Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they’re never weakness.” - Brene Brown. You might be experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, self-esteem issues, or relational issues. I am here to help you make the changes you would like to make, to help you learn more about yourself, and to strengthen your relationships so you can know yourself as whole and safe and can experience a positive quality of life!. I treat clients of all different ages and backgrounds.!
![Photo of Hannah Bidwell, NCC, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/142c33a7-a485-44bc-8060-dc578aaf741e/1/320x400.png)
Welcome! You did it. You are here. You are already on your way. My name is Hannah and I am here to support you in your journey toward healing, meaning, and hope. Therapy is an opportunity to gain insight and improve your mental and emotional wellness. I am open to sharing my skill sets and working alongside you to provide support on your journey to unpack and discover the ways in which you can thrive and come home to yourself. I work primarily with children, adolescents, and women coping with anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, and relationship issues.
Welcome! You did it. You are here. You are already on your way. My name is Hannah and I am here to support you in your journey toward healing, meaning, and hope. Therapy is an opportunity to gain insight and improve your mental and emotional wellness. I am open to sharing my skill sets and working alongside you to provide support on your journey to unpack and discover the ways in which you can thrive and come home to yourself. I work primarily with children, adolescents, and women coping with anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, and relationship issues.
![Photo of Jane Webb, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb3310e5-a79e-47b3-88a9-03df5c58c82f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults, couples, and families who face challenges related to the stress of modern living as well as traumatic experiences, including complex trauma histories. My clients often come to me with symptoms of anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting, and coping with grief and loss.
I work with adults, couples, and families who face challenges related to the stress of modern living as well as traumatic experiences, including complex trauma histories. My clients often come to me with symptoms of anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting, and coping with grief and loss.
![Photo of Andrea Dixon, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ead961e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea Dixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64064 (Online Only)
Are you looking to get real results and make lasting change? Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed? Experiencing the impacts of past losses or trauma? Having relationship difficulties? Struggling to stick with the goals you set for yourself? Whether you are hoping to resolve pain, discomfort, and despair or seeking authenticity, growth, and more satisfying personal outcomes, my goal is to give you the tools and emotional support necessary to move your life in a new direction. I balance intuition with over a decade of clinical experience to help you find your way to a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Are you looking to get real results and make lasting change? Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed? Experiencing the impacts of past losses or trauma? Having relationship difficulties? Struggling to stick with the goals you set for yourself? Whether you are hoping to resolve pain, discomfort, and despair or seeking authenticity, growth, and more satisfying personal outcomes, my goal is to give you the tools and emotional support necessary to move your life in a new direction. I balance intuition with over a decade of clinical experience to help you find your way to a more authentic and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Katie Kirkenmeier, MA, LCPC, LPC, PMH-C, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31acf9ba-ce34-411b-88ba-5b4ec76a2b9f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Kirkenmeier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, PMH-C, ATR
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64063
Waitlist for new clients
I believe every person has the right to heal and experience personal growth. We all experience hardships and stress in life that can be overwhelming. I am here to help you understand you are not alone and deserve to be heard . My intention is to provide a safe, inclusive, trauma-informed space to support you on your path to healing and to enhance your relationship to self. There is no concern that is too small that you should have to endure by yourself. I believe each individual is unique and deserves a therapeutic experience that is tailored to their healing journey.
I believe every person has the right to heal and experience personal growth. We all experience hardships and stress in life that can be overwhelming. I am here to help you understand you are not alone and deserve to be heard . My intention is to provide a safe, inclusive, trauma-informed space to support you on your path to healing and to enhance your relationship to self. There is no concern that is too small that you should have to endure by yourself. I believe each individual is unique and deserves a therapeutic experience that is tailored to their healing journey.
![Photo of Jenna Foraker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3642f8c-417e-4372-afa1-cbbe9c36d312/1/320x400.png)
I am an EMDRIA trained therapist, who has been in the field for over ten years. I have experience in substance abuse, family issues, co-dependency, addictions, severe anxiety and mental illnesses. I work with clients as young as 3 years old. I don't believe that there is any situation that can't get better, with coping skills and support. I have been a clinician since 2005. My experience in this field is extensive, I have worked with families that were in foster care, telemedicine, inpatient and outpatient substance abuse both adults and adolescents, outpatient mental health therapy,
I am an EMDRIA trained therapist, who has been in the field for over ten years. I have experience in substance abuse, family issues, co-dependency, addictions, severe anxiety and mental illnesses. I work with clients as young as 3 years old. I don't believe that there is any situation that can't get better, with coping skills and support. I have been a clinician since 2005. My experience in this field is extensive, I have worked with families that were in foster care, telemedicine, inpatient and outpatient substance abuse both adults and adolescents, outpatient mental health therapy,
![Photo of Daylen Burney, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a62288d-9375-4345-a171-ce0788501b63/2/320x400.jpeg)
I strive to create a unique therapeutic experience for all of my clients. Everyone who comes and sits on my couch needs something different. During our time together, I will listen to your experiences and attempt to understand you. From this deep understanding, we will create goals for your treatment. I want you to have a say in your healing journey. I will never tell you what to do, or push my idea of treatment onto you. Therapy is a collaborative process where we will figure out how to best treat you. Let’s begin your healing journey together.
I strive to create a unique therapeutic experience for all of my clients. Everyone who comes and sits on my couch needs something different. During our time together, I will listen to your experiences and attempt to understand you. From this deep understanding, we will create goals for your treatment. I want you to have a say in your healing journey. I will never tell you what to do, or push my idea of treatment onto you. Therapy is a collaborative process where we will figure out how to best treat you. Let’s begin your healing journey together.
![Photo of Jasmine Britton, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f55124a-348f-49c8-a737-3d330983bebc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jasmine is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and trained EMDR therapist with experience in community mental health and residential treatment centers, providing substance abuse services, crisis intervention services, trauma therapy, and family therapy. Jasmine enjoys working with children and adolescents and has experience in treating anxiety disorder, depression, trauma, and interpersonal relationships. Jasmine is versed in several therapeutic modalities and most often uses a person-centered approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Jasmine is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and trained EMDR therapist with experience in community mental health and residential treatment centers, providing substance abuse services, crisis intervention services, trauma therapy, and family therapy. Jasmine enjoys working with children and adolescents and has experience in treating anxiety disorder, depression, trauma, and interpersonal relationships. Jasmine is versed in several therapeutic modalities and most often uses a person-centered approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
15 Second Videos
Krista Gomez Gonzalez
Josh O’Hora
Katlin Huskey - Accepting New Clients!
Wendy Hawkins
Jeri Sullivant
Michele Deeter Accepting New Clients
Cara Gruhala
Sophia Palmerin - Accepting New Clients!
Tricia L Beach
Lis Klemme
Abby Moog
Angelique Foye-Fletcher
Cheryl Mark
Ayleen Gomez Lopez
Summit Ridge Counseling Group
Harlee Stocker
Shelley Clayton Duality Therapy
Sarah Josephson
Kelly Shaw
Ivy Pellerito
Rick Aldred
Kathy Susan Cherney
Kali Boydston
Alexandra Echelmeier
Tarissa Helms - Accepting New Clients!
Meredith Gardner
Emily Duggan- Accepting New Clients
Hannah K Sholar
Jonathan Kindler
Jamie E Skyta
Kimberly Clark Winsor
Donna K Burgess
Rachael Julstrom
Luke Partain
KC Life Counseling
Jeremy Allan Fowler
Christina Wilson
Curtis James Kolle
Heartland Therapy Connection
LaShandra Shepard
Diana Hughes Counseling LLC
Whitney Davison
Luke Allen
Angela Stevens
Shara A McGlothan
Katie McCurter
Paul Carlisle
Melinda Bonham Couple And Family Therapist
Diane Kathleen Morgan
Sharree Jensen
![Photo of Anthony Morrison, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6bea5988-829f-4bb5-9e70-7647d6d6cc69/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have 30 years experience doing psychological and neuropsychological assessments (including ADHD and ASD assessments) for school-aged children and adults of all ages. Child assessments are completed in person - adult assessments can be done in person or using a telehealth format. Learn more at neurodiversity.clinic
I have 30 years experience doing psychological and neuropsychological assessments (including ADHD and ASD assessments) for school-aged children and adults of all ages. Child assessments are completed in person - adult assessments can be done in person or using a telehealth format. Learn more at neurodiversity.clinic
![Photo of Chantele Mercier Ferguson, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/459f4e07-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As we journey through life, we can experience challenges that stifle our personal growth or block our connection with others. Sometimes, we feel ill-equipped, disappointed, alone, hurt, or afraid. But there is hope-- hope for understanding, peace, empowerment, and joy. Whether you would like to broaden your understanding of your own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, or deepen your connection with others, there is hope and there is help. Together we can enhance self-awareness and other-awareness. We can work to understand and strengthen your ability to manage your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. We can develop healthy problem-solving and life skills.
As we journey through life, we can experience challenges that stifle our personal growth or block our connection with others. Sometimes, we feel ill-equipped, disappointed, alone, hurt, or afraid. But there is hope-- hope for understanding, peace, empowerment, and joy. Whether you would like to broaden your understanding of your own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, or deepen your connection with others, there is hope and there is help. Together we can enhance self-awareness and other-awareness. We can work to understand and strengthen your ability to manage your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. We can develop healthy problem-solving and life skills.
![Photo of Shantelle Wells - Restoring Pathways - Shantelle Wells , MS, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d062752-fa9e-4fae-b559-2589578c2083/2/320x400.jpeg)
Restoring Pathways - Shantelle Wells
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64064 (Online Only)
Hello, I’m Shantelle Wells, a compassionate and experienced therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and find meaningful solutions. With a non-judgmental approach, I create a safe space where people can be vulnerable, explore their thoughts, emotions and concerns. A place where others can share their deepest, darkest secrets. My expertise lies in areas such as anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship difficulties,self–esteem and personal growth. I firmly believe in the power of therapy to facilitate positive change and provide the support while working on becoming the best version of YOU!
Hello, I’m Shantelle Wells, a compassionate and experienced therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and find meaningful solutions. With a non-judgmental approach, I create a safe space where people can be vulnerable, explore their thoughts, emotions and concerns. A place where others can share their deepest, darkest secrets. My expertise lies in areas such as anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship difficulties,self–esteem and personal growth. I firmly believe in the power of therapy to facilitate positive change and provide the support while working on becoming the best version of YOU!
![Photo of Wendy Hawkins, LSCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/406afb44-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Wendy Hawkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64082
I believe we all have the right to our own belief systems but often times sharing those with someone who is a complete stranger can be intimidating. I offer you a safe space to be YOU. I am a spiritual being that is open to embracing dialogue around non-traditional ways of thinking and believing. Because the client-therapist is an important relationship, my goal is to provide a high-quality service to you that includes quick and responsive communication as well as a huge library of resources to give you the tools you need for an action based and humanistic therapy process. I enjoy working with women and couples!
I believe we all have the right to our own belief systems but often times sharing those with someone who is a complete stranger can be intimidating. I offer you a safe space to be YOU. I am a spiritual being that is open to embracing dialogue around non-traditional ways of thinking and believing. Because the client-therapist is an important relationship, my goal is to provide a high-quality service to you that includes quick and responsive communication as well as a huge library of resources to give you the tools you need for an action based and humanistic therapy process. I enjoy working with women and couples!
![Photo of Madeline Cramer, MA, LPC, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/151a45b1-60de-4fc6-9adc-3c97c5c6b5a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I want to help clients get relief and know that they are not alone. Whether that relief is from anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or from relationship issues, we can work together. You might be surprised at how your strengths start to show! I can give you invaluable information and skills that can positively impact your daily life. I care deeply for my clients and restore hope. Together, we overcome your unique struggles to reveal a new life outlook. With your specific concerns, I can show you relief and ways to not have them continuously interfere in your life.
I want to help clients get relief and know that they are not alone. Whether that relief is from anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or from relationship issues, we can work together. You might be surprised at how your strengths start to show! I can give you invaluable information and skills that can positively impact your daily life. I care deeply for my clients and restore hope. Together, we overcome your unique struggles to reveal a new life outlook. With your specific concerns, I can show you relief and ways to not have them continuously interfere in your life.
![Photo of Megan Mulheron, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a39d062-c2a1-4ef7-bfd4-5630a98ef168/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Mulheron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64064
Wounds often shape our life's choices without our knowledge of their presence. Life is hard and these wounds can wear on us over time. Are you unsure if you're struggling with an addiction and you feel like your substance may be wreaking havoc on your life and your relationships? It takes courage to ask for help. I can meet you where you are and we can explore this together in an environment that is free of shame and judgement. Successful therapy involves a collaborative relationship where clients risk to uncover wounds and challenge unhelpful family structures.
Wounds often shape our life's choices without our knowledge of their presence. Life is hard and these wounds can wear on us over time. Are you unsure if you're struggling with an addiction and you feel like your substance may be wreaking havoc on your life and your relationships? It takes courage to ask for help. I can meet you where you are and we can explore this together in an environment that is free of shame and judgement. Successful therapy involves a collaborative relationship where clients risk to uncover wounds and challenge unhelpful family structures.
![Photo of Chris Cobb, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9bf587-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chris Cobb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64081
Your family may be feeling like it is being turned upside down as your developing young adult struggles to find their place in the world. I work within the family system to re-establish the balance that is necessary for a healthy, growing family and find order within the chaos. Teens and young people may appear to be rebelling; fighting back against all of the families efforts to offer guidance and support. We can work together to turn this energy into a productivity and success in academic, social, and all other aspects of life.
Your family may be feeling like it is being turned upside down as your developing young adult struggles to find their place in the world. I work within the family system to re-establish the balance that is necessary for a healthy, growing family and find order within the chaos. Teens and young people may appear to be rebelling; fighting back against all of the families efforts to offer guidance and support. We can work together to turn this energy into a productivity and success in academic, social, and all other aspects of life.
![Photo of Jeri Sullivant, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53fbb792-e5ee-43a2-9d67-13b967d25ae5/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that every person is a worthy individual created to experience joy and meaningful relationships. My goal is to help you cultivate a life of peace and purpose rather than chaos and despair. I believe in working hard and laughing harder during the therapeutic process as we all flail our way to health and wellness together.
I believe that every person is a worthy individual created to experience joy and meaningful relationships. My goal is to help you cultivate a life of peace and purpose rather than chaos and despair. I believe in working hard and laughing harder during the therapeutic process as we all flail our way to health and wellness together.
![Photo of Tiffany Jackson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/815c23b9-2d8a-40f6-9d96-4d63ec747486/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64082 (Online Only)
My goal is to provide a supportive and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe that therapy is a collaborative journey, and I’m here to listen, understand, and work with you to navigate challenges you’re facing. If you have any questions or concerns along the way, please feel free to share them. Together, we’ll work towards finding solutions and building the life you envision for yourself.
My goal is to provide a supportive and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe that therapy is a collaborative journey, and I’m here to listen, understand, and work with you to navigate challenges you’re facing. If you have any questions or concerns along the way, please feel free to share them. Together, we’ll work towards finding solutions and building the life you envision for yourself.
See more therapy options for Lees Summit
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Lees Summit, MO
200+
Average cost per session
$125
Therapists in Lees Summit, MO who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
83% | Depression |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Relationship Issues |
72% | Self Esteem |
68% | Coping Skills |
65% | Stress |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
81% | Aetna |
69% | Cigna and Evernorth |
63% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Lees Summit, MO see their clients
81% | In Person and Online | |
19% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
82% | Female | |
18% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Lees Summit?
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.