Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA
![Photo of Marina Resa, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/511d80b3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marina Resa
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
The needs of others come before your own? Sometimes, as children, we fundamentally altered who we were to adjust to trauma, role-reversals, and cold parenting. This can create an underdeveloped sense of self or we are sensitive the slightest shifts in the moods of others. Relationships are scary. When happiness finally starts to seep in, an overwhelming fear sets in that it will all collapse & disappear.
The needs of others come before your own? Sometimes, as children, we fundamentally altered who we were to adjust to trauma, role-reversals, and cold parenting. This can create an underdeveloped sense of self or we are sensitive the slightest shifts in the moods of others. Relationships are scary. When happiness finally starts to seep in, an overwhelming fear sets in that it will all collapse & disappear.
![Photo of Ryan Hampton, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10d053d6-feed-4a85-8f90-319694adab5c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Hampton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
Since 2013, I have supported individuals working through addiction, trauma, homelessness, family conflict, domestic violence, personality disorders, and a wide variety of mental health challenges. I enjoy working with people of every demographic and identity expression, and I am especially passionate about working with teens and young adults, African American and multiracial individuals and families, as well as the neurodivergent community. I assist my clients in creating the life story they want to live, by building self-understanding, practicing self-acceptance, and developing their unique personal strengths.
Since 2013, I have supported individuals working through addiction, trauma, homelessness, family conflict, domestic violence, personality disorders, and a wide variety of mental health challenges. I enjoy working with people of every demographic and identity expression, and I am especially passionate about working with teens and young adults, African American and multiracial individuals and families, as well as the neurodivergent community. I assist my clients in creating the life story they want to live, by building self-understanding, practicing self-acceptance, and developing their unique personal strengths.
![Photo of Melissa Wheelock, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43f8ce70-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Wheelock
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
If you find yourself on this site looking for a therapist, then the answer is yes! It is the right time for you to focus on healing for yourself! I specialize in working with people who are looking for help healing anxiety, depression, body image and relationship challenges. The most important relationship you will ever have is with yourself, and my background in attachment theory, cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness and the well known trauma treatment called EMDR gives me a unique perspective about the challenges all humans face. I offer online and in person therapy and I can't wait to hear from you!
If you find yourself on this site looking for a therapist, then the answer is yes! It is the right time for you to focus on healing for yourself! I specialize in working with people who are looking for help healing anxiety, depression, body image and relationship challenges. The most important relationship you will ever have is with yourself, and my background in attachment theory, cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness and the well known trauma treatment called EMDR gives me a unique perspective about the challenges all humans face. I offer online and in person therapy and I can't wait to hear from you!
![Photo of Melissa DePoorter, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af6aa4cc-bedb-42b3-a3f6-bf69e8cae599/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am one of several psychologists working at Central Coast Evaluation Services, a practice committed to providing comprehensive psychological evaluations. I provide assessment services in various areas, including cognitive/intellectual, memory, personality, psychopathology, and diagnostic clarification.
I am one of several psychologists working at Central Coast Evaluation Services, a practice committed to providing comprehensive psychological evaluations. I provide assessment services in various areas, including cognitive/intellectual, memory, personality, psychopathology, and diagnostic clarification.
![Photo of Michelle Matoff, LCSW, PsyD, CBC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/459da83b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Matoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD, CBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I am a Psy.D, LCSW with +25 years of experience. I have lived and worked in diverse social environments (USA, UK, Brazil, and Australia) and specialize in the treatment of anxiety, stress management, chronic pain management, codependency, compulsive overeating, pre-bariatric surgery evaluations, and post-bariatric surgery support.(1) In addition, my practice focuses on life transitions e.g. adjusting to college life, balancing school, career and relationships, aging, and loss of health. I work with you to improve the quality of your life.
I am a Psy.D, LCSW with +25 years of experience. I have lived and worked in diverse social environments (USA, UK, Brazil, and Australia) and specialize in the treatment of anxiety, stress management, chronic pain management, codependency, compulsive overeating, pre-bariatric surgery evaluations, and post-bariatric surgery support.(1) In addition, my practice focuses on life transitions e.g. adjusting to college life, balancing school, career and relationships, aging, and loss of health. I work with you to improve the quality of your life.
![Photo of Cristy Chavez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f652b79-3205-4442-94cc-bc1542228c4d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cristy Chavez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Life creates obstacles causing painful emotions, confusion, and disconnection. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, body image, an eating disorder, or daily coping skills, you might wonder how you will overcome such obstacles. With my unique approach to therapy, we will focus on your personal strengths, identify unconscious patterned behaviors, and guide you to a more fulfilling life. My mission is to encourage all beings to fearlessly honor who they are, find the tools necessary to freely live as the person they want to be, and to engage in their relationships with true connection.
Life creates obstacles causing painful emotions, confusion, and disconnection. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, body image, an eating disorder, or daily coping skills, you might wonder how you will overcome such obstacles. With my unique approach to therapy, we will focus on your personal strengths, identify unconscious patterned behaviors, and guide you to a more fulfilling life. My mission is to encourage all beings to fearlessly honor who they are, find the tools necessary to freely live as the person they want to be, and to engage in their relationships with true connection.
![Photo of Joanie Nelson, MA, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/273003cc-7f8e-4eb9-81af-42b38a463ab0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joanie Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Do you ever find yourself wondering, "Is this the life I want to live?" Are you out of synch and balance, where did you go off track? Let's work together to explore the story of your life, after all, you are the author. Together we will explore your strengths and goals then create a unique path filled with congruence and hope.
Do you ever find yourself wondering, "Is this the life I want to live?" Are you out of synch and balance, where did you go off track? Let's work together to explore the story of your life, after all, you are the author. Together we will explore your strengths and goals then create a unique path filled with congruence and hope.
![Photo of Erin Lindvall, PhD, LMFT, FAPA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44eae046-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Lindvall
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, FAPA
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I love my work as a psychotherapist, and consider it an honor and privilege to work with my clients and share in their quest for personal growth. I know that the decision to start therapy is often a difficult one. I applaud your willingness and initiative. My approach aims to engage, to inspire, and to help you imagine new possibilities. My goal is to assist you in developing tools and skills that enable you to more effectively deal with life and its challenges.
I love my work as a psychotherapist, and consider it an honor and privilege to work with my clients and share in their quest for personal growth. I know that the decision to start therapy is often a difficult one. I applaud your willingness and initiative. My approach aims to engage, to inspire, and to help you imagine new possibilities. My goal is to assist you in developing tools and skills that enable you to more effectively deal with life and its challenges.
![Photo of Erica Collins, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48df2cd2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Suffering is a common human experience, but I notice that the individuals who seek support during these times are the ones who typically grow. It is one of my greatest joys in life to watch individuals, couples, and families pursue lasting growth and change. As a therapist I provide a comfortable, safe environment for individuals, couples, and families to grow and work towards their goals.
Suffering is a common human experience, but I notice that the individuals who seek support during these times are the ones who typically grow. It is one of my greatest joys in life to watch individuals, couples, and families pursue lasting growth and change. As a therapist I provide a comfortable, safe environment for individuals, couples, and families to grow and work towards their goals.
![Photo of We Are Nature - We Are Nature, MA, LMFT, CPAT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a2d8359-d367-4466-969b-cd6fce46de63/1/320x400.jpeg)
We Are Nature
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CPAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
We believe we belong in a reciprocal relationship with nature. Nature is a co-facilitator in our therapeutic healing journey. Evidence based studies show that nature therapy engenders a variety of mental health benefits such as stress and anxiety reduction, attention restoration, depression alleviation, self-esteem, and embodiment. Through mindfulness and interactive practices, we will immerse ourselves in a chosen outdoor space. Noticing our role in the rich ecosystem around us, we acquaint ourselves with the truth that we are part of, not separate from; healing ourselves to wholeness.
We believe we belong in a reciprocal relationship with nature. Nature is a co-facilitator in our therapeutic healing journey. Evidence based studies show that nature therapy engenders a variety of mental health benefits such as stress and anxiety reduction, attention restoration, depression alleviation, self-esteem, and embodiment. Through mindfulness and interactive practices, we will immerse ourselves in a chosen outdoor space. Noticing our role in the rich ecosystem around us, we acquaint ourselves with the truth that we are part of, not separate from; healing ourselves to wholeness.
![Photo of Amanda Groo, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10a4010a-98a9-4fe2-9c41-9fb880557279/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Groo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
In a time where distractions and uncertainties are omnipresent. Where isolation is fostered by "screen connections", anxiety that keeps us from achieving our true potential, or depression that makes it difficult to get out of bed in the morning. We are more alone than ever before and in need of true, meaningful connections. Reaching out for support is the first step in rebuilding and reclaiming our lives. In my practice, I strive to cultivate a safe space where you can begin your healing journey through a trauma-informed lens. You will learn how to fully regain control of your life and create the life you have always wanted.
In a time where distractions and uncertainties are omnipresent. Where isolation is fostered by "screen connections", anxiety that keeps us from achieving our true potential, or depression that makes it difficult to get out of bed in the morning. We are more alone than ever before and in need of true, meaningful connections. Reaching out for support is the first step in rebuilding and reclaiming our lives. In my practice, I strive to cultivate a safe space where you can begin your healing journey through a trauma-informed lens. You will learn how to fully regain control of your life and create the life you have always wanted.
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![Photo of Paul Carbajal, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b80e085-dbf8-4c92-b54d-a497a748982a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Connection is at the core of who we are, what we’re passionate about, and the most meaningful relationships we have. And yet so many things can interfere with our ability to connect: anxiety, depression, grief, traumatic experiences...how we cope with these things may inhibit our ability to build intimacy with those around us. I work with students and young adults, as well as those in mid-life and beyond, who experience anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or life transitions, that interfere with living fully you, fully now.
Connection is at the core of who we are, what we’re passionate about, and the most meaningful relationships we have. And yet so many things can interfere with our ability to connect: anxiety, depression, grief, traumatic experiences...how we cope with these things may inhibit our ability to build intimacy with those around us. I work with students and young adults, as well as those in mid-life and beyond, who experience anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or life transitions, that interfere with living fully you, fully now.
![Photo of Kelly Bell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2da237c-a6f5-414b-a818-b0905d8cc513/1/320x400.jpeg)
I do what I call "Nail on the head" therapy...if you want to put a nail in the wall, you get out a hammer, figure out where the stud is, and WHACK it on the head...you don't beat around it, you don't use your shoe, not if you want it to stay! Given this philosophy, I provide straightforward usable tools that will help YOU create the changes YOU most want to create...and I try to do so in a fairly short term manner. Check out my blog at: CreativeSolutionsCounseling.wordpress.com and see if my style of therapy is right for you...then give me a call and lets get starting on creating that changes that can really improve your life!
I do what I call "Nail on the head" therapy...if you want to put a nail in the wall, you get out a hammer, figure out where the stud is, and WHACK it on the head...you don't beat around it, you don't use your shoe, not if you want it to stay! Given this philosophy, I provide straightforward usable tools that will help YOU create the changes YOU most want to create...and I try to do so in a fairly short term manner. Check out my blog at: CreativeSolutionsCounseling.wordpress.com and see if my style of therapy is right for you...then give me a call and lets get starting on creating that changes that can really improve your life!
![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.
Rebecca 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.
Rebecca 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 Christina Dee, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80366bc8-8ef3-4bd9-bb30-ebb618574eeb/4/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Dee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Connecting with yourself can bring a greater calm and balance to your life. I provide a warm presence to help you nourish, strengthen and restore yourself to emotional, physical and spiritual wellness. Whether you wish you heal a broken heart, process grief and loss, resolve a work challenge or discover ways to fine-tune your beliefs and attitudes, I am ready to journey by your side as a source of support, guidance and insight.
Connecting with yourself can bring a greater calm and balance to your life. I provide a warm presence to help you nourish, strengthen and restore yourself to emotional, physical and spiritual wellness. Whether you wish you heal a broken heart, process grief and loss, resolve a work challenge or discover ways to fine-tune your beliefs and attitudes, I am ready to journey by your side as a source of support, guidance and insight.
![Photo of Debra Muse, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d3d9f72-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
You don't have to solve life's difficulties and navigate personal changes alone! I will work with you in a collaborative, supportive and safe environment to help you to feel better about yourself and your life. We can identify what is not "working"/problem areas as well as what is "working"/your strengths and move toward the positive changes you would like in your self and your life!
You don't have to solve life's difficulties and navigate personal changes alone! I will work with you in a collaborative, supportive and safe environment to help you to feel better about yourself and your life. We can identify what is not "working"/problem areas as well as what is "working"/your strengths and move toward the positive changes you would like in your self and your life!
![Photo of Shelly Staley, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb56bc27-ec3c-4e1f-b729-8ee478a69b1a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shelly Staley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
I want to help you find relief from the noise in your head. Your anxiety, depression and/or trauma is an integral part of your story, but doesn’t define you and doesn't need to control your life any more. Together, we will highlight your innate resiliencies and empower you to build up your inner strength and confidence to live your life in the present, while honoring your past and feeling hopeful about the future.
I want to help you find relief from the noise in your head. Your anxiety, depression and/or trauma is an integral part of your story, but doesn’t define you and doesn't need to control your life any more. Together, we will highlight your innate resiliencies and empower you to build up your inner strength and confidence to live your life in the present, while honoring your past and feeling hopeful about the future.
![Photo of Summer Myers, LMFT, IMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3763ded0-82bc-42ca-b1b3-b975d01cf2dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Summer Myers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 (Online Only)
Anxiety, shame, and chronic guilt; you don’t know how to relax, and you probably don’t sleep very well. The perfectionism is crippling, and you're exhausted. Maybe you're a people-pleaser with terrible boundaries, or a former “gifted and talented” kid, or a child of immigrants always reaching for "good enough." Your inner critic is loud. Anxious perfectionism may also show up as body tension and panic attacks; procrastination and indecision; an overwhelming to-do list; and difficulty in relationships. Perfectionists don't already do things perfectly—they feel like they HAVE to do better, but they’re ALWAYS falling short.
Anxiety, shame, and chronic guilt; you don’t know how to relax, and you probably don’t sleep very well. The perfectionism is crippling, and you're exhausted. Maybe you're a people-pleaser with terrible boundaries, or a former “gifted and talented” kid, or a child of immigrants always reaching for "good enough." Your inner critic is loud. Anxious perfectionism may also show up as body tension and panic attacks; procrastination and indecision; an overwhelming to-do list; and difficulty in relationships. Perfectionists don't already do things perfectly—they feel like they HAVE to do better, but they’re ALWAYS falling short.
![Photo of Megan Herzing, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d890bf58-882f-45c6-a6e1-bdcf065be15b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Herzing
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Not accepting new clients
Each of us takes a unique journey through the world, and often that path takes us in directions that can be incredibly painful. Sometimes, it can be overwhelming trying to navigate our way to a life that feels healthy and whole. We get the opportunity in therapy to process past and present traumas that may be holding us back. I consider myself a trauma therapist and I have seen that it is possible to heal the effects of trauma in both my life and the lives of my clients. I feel honored to support you in working towards the healing you hope for.
Each of us takes a unique journey through the world, and often that path takes us in directions that can be incredibly painful. Sometimes, it can be overwhelming trying to navigate our way to a life that feels healthy and whole. We get the opportunity in therapy to process past and present traumas that may be holding us back. I consider myself a trauma therapist and I have seen that it is possible to heal the effects of trauma in both my life and the lives of my clients. I feel honored to support you in working towards the healing you hope for.
See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo
Nearby Searches for San Luis Obispo
- Arroyo Grande
- Atascadero
- Avila Beach
- Cayucos
- Grover Beach
- Los Osos
- Morro Bay
- Nipomo
- 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.