Therapists in Chattanooga, TN
![Photo of Ashley Liston-Avnaim, LPC, MHSP, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74482b15-5ef6-4152-a29b-be760a4f3152/1/320x400.jpeg)
It is my hope to partner with you in learning how to first be with and then move through life's painful experiences in such a way that feels authentic to you. If you have unresolved grief, trauma or other barriers to your ability to thrive, I would love to join you in opening new doors to embodied and conscious living. I enjoy working with folks from most walks of life, those with body-based concerns such as chronic illness, chronic pain or difficult to diagnose physical symptoms that may be having an impact on mental health.
It is my hope to partner with you in learning how to first be with and then move through life's painful experiences in such a way that feels authentic to you. If you have unresolved grief, trauma or other barriers to your ability to thrive, I would love to join you in opening new doors to embodied and conscious living. I enjoy working with folks from most walks of life, those with body-based concerns such as chronic illness, chronic pain or difficult to diagnose physical symptoms that may be having an impact on mental health.
![Photo of Paul Laskowske, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/467a62d6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I help people who have lost their way get reconnected--to spouse or family, to God, or to their own dreams and goals. I work with individuals, couples, and families struggling through issues such as addiction that create distance among those they love; with individuals pursuing spiritual healing from emotional wounds; and with people grappling with cultural identity, transition, and stress, such as missionaries and children of missionaries. I have an eclectic approach for counseling individuals that integrates interpersonal, narrative, and strengths-based elements with my Christian worldview, and am buildling experience using Gottman Method Therapy for working with couples.
I help people who have lost their way get reconnected--to spouse or family, to God, or to their own dreams and goals. I work with individuals, couples, and families struggling through issues such as addiction that create distance among those they love; with individuals pursuing spiritual healing from emotional wounds; and with people grappling with cultural identity, transition, and stress, such as missionaries and children of missionaries. I have an eclectic approach for counseling individuals that integrates interpersonal, narrative, and strengths-based elements with my Christian worldview, and am buildling experience using Gottman Method Therapy for working with couples.
![Photo of Travis D Hutchinson, Pastoral Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cedea5a2-cae5-4eae-9566-c63c0bdd2b97/1/320x400.jpeg)
I love introducing people to Gospel freedom and hope. My background in substance abuse counseling included a strong emphasis on family systems. My work as a pastor gave me an opportunity to take an understanding of systems and brokenness and apply it to marriages and families. Working for a decade in a school deepened my experience with crisis intervention, grief, trauma, and the wonderful ways connecting with creation can be part of God’s healing grace in our lives.
I love introducing people to Gospel freedom and hope. My background in substance abuse counseling included a strong emphasis on family systems. My work as a pastor gave me an opportunity to take an understanding of systems and brokenness and apply it to marriages and families. Working for a decade in a school deepened my experience with crisis intervention, grief, trauma, and the wonderful ways connecting with creation can be part of God’s healing grace in our lives.
![Photo of Deborah Lancaster, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49e358c5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Lancaster
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37408
It takes tremendous courage to choose to walk through difficult places on the path towards healing, and it takes even more courage to invite a counselor to walk with you. I consider it an honor to join with my clients as they face the challenges in life, whether it be wounds from the past , struggles with managing mood and thoughts, issues with relational functioning, sexuality or unhealthy coping. I believe there is power in relationship and I consider it a joy to help clients learn how to better relate to themselves, others and the world around them.
It takes tremendous courage to choose to walk through difficult places on the path towards healing, and it takes even more courage to invite a counselor to walk with you. I consider it an honor to join with my clients as they face the challenges in life, whether it be wounds from the past , struggles with managing mood and thoughts, issues with relational functioning, sexuality or unhealthy coping. I believe there is power in relationship and I consider it a joy to help clients learn how to better relate to themselves, others and the world around them.
![Photo of Mary Moore, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b8fc406-926c-42d4-b806-d44bd9cc6910/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that people make sense within their context. And so, I am mindful of context - cultural background, attachment style, family and relationship history, etc. I enjoy the process of listening and attending, especially to those whose voices may feel unheard, such as teens, women, and trauma survivors. My work is informed by an integrative and embodied approach, utilizing various family system theories and trauma-informed interventions. Through establishing a sound therapeutic relationship and safe environment, I am hopeful that your difficult emotions will "make sense," and a story of resilience and compassion will be heard.
I believe that people make sense within their context. And so, I am mindful of context - cultural background, attachment style, family and relationship history, etc. I enjoy the process of listening and attending, especially to those whose voices may feel unheard, such as teens, women, and trauma survivors. My work is informed by an integrative and embodied approach, utilizing various family system theories and trauma-informed interventions. Through establishing a sound therapeutic relationship and safe environment, I am hopeful that your difficult emotions will "make sense," and a story of resilience and compassion will be heard.
![Photo of Dr. Lar'Mara Henderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4b27c81-a258-44c8-9a96-09b32f8d6cba/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lar'Mara Henderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37421
Waitlist for new clients
Scenic City Therapy, LLC. specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma symptoms with individuals, couples, and groups. Dr. Henderson has worked with active-duty military and veteran populations over the past 20 years and offers an inclusive environment sensitive to the unique needs of this population.
Scenic City Therapy, LLC. specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma symptoms with individuals, couples, and groups. Dr. Henderson has worked with active-duty military and veteran populations over the past 20 years and offers an inclusive environment sensitive to the unique needs of this population.
![Photo of Sheaba Chacko, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/905e9ab6-ecb2-4592-804e-6d608fd62607/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sheaba Chacko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHSP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405 (Online Only)
Is Anxiety holding you back? You’ve always been proactive, perceptive, and personable - but you’re afraid of losing your edge. Things are piling up, getting bottlenecked, and feeling dicey. Your mind is racing and your body is lagging. It’s challenging to maintain that upbeat, agreeable, and positive outlook that you’re known for - especially when you're in the car or working alone. Typically you’d put your head down and push through. But this time? You know that’s not enough. Nothing is glaringly obvious from the outside…but that’s why internally you want to stay ahead of it. Hi! I’m Sheaba. I can help.
Is Anxiety holding you back? You’ve always been proactive, perceptive, and personable - but you’re afraid of losing your edge. Things are piling up, getting bottlenecked, and feeling dicey. Your mind is racing and your body is lagging. It’s challenging to maintain that upbeat, agreeable, and positive outlook that you’re known for - especially when you're in the car or working alone. Typically you’d put your head down and push through. But this time? You know that’s not enough. Nothing is glaringly obvious from the outside…but that’s why internally you want to stay ahead of it. Hi! I’m Sheaba. I can help.
![Photo of Katie Mondy, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7a3ac4d-df59-4b35-9327-c6044ef73e98/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! Embarking on the journey of counseling can feel daunting and intimidating, and it can take a lot of courage it takes to take that first step. As a counselor, my mission is to provide a warm, caring, and nonjudgmental environment for individuals, couples, and families where you feel safe to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I firmly believe that the therapeutic relationship is built on empathy and collaboration, and together, we can navigate the twists and turns that life may throw your way.
Hello! Embarking on the journey of counseling can feel daunting and intimidating, and it can take a lot of courage it takes to take that first step. As a counselor, my mission is to provide a warm, caring, and nonjudgmental environment for individuals, couples, and families where you feel safe to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I firmly believe that the therapeutic relationship is built on empathy and collaboration, and together, we can navigate the twists and turns that life may throw your way.
![Photo of Tonia L Durand, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9577d348-5cf7-4606-9985-7317620fafa4/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been a counselor for 35+ years. I specialize in trauma recovery, and anxiety management. Some of the clients in my past include; gifted persons, transitioning adults, sexual/domestic violence survivors, persons harmed by their religious upbringing, self harming individuals, persons who are defining their sexuality and/or gender, and adults/adolescents with ADHD, and neurodivergent populations. I am deeply respectful of the right to determine your own reproductive health needs and have them met safely. If you are exploring your own neurodivergence, I can help you with that. I am autistic, ADHD, gifted, and dyslexic.
I have been a counselor for 35+ years. I specialize in trauma recovery, and anxiety management. Some of the clients in my past include; gifted persons, transitioning adults, sexual/domestic violence survivors, persons harmed by their religious upbringing, self harming individuals, persons who are defining their sexuality and/or gender, and adults/adolescents with ADHD, and neurodivergent populations. I am deeply respectful of the right to determine your own reproductive health needs and have them met safely. If you are exploring your own neurodivergence, I can help you with that. I am autistic, ADHD, gifted, and dyslexic.
![Photo of Dr. Corinne Webster, PhD, LPC-S, MHSP, CSC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/153c3375-010b-4817-af70-7c0d29220ec9/5/320x400.png)
Dr. Corinne Webster
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, MHSP, CSC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37403 (Online Only)
I view counseling as a journey of awareness, growth, and self-compassion. As your travel companion, I aim to provide insight, encouragement, and a gentle nudge to help you reach your destination. I work with individuals, groups, and families of all ages and backgrounds and have specialized experience helping clients with issues of anxiety, grief, trauma, spirituality, self-harm, and gender identity. When appropriate, I offer dreamwork, sandtray therapy, and psychotherapeutic Reiki interventions. My approach is collaborative and respectful, primarily drawing from an integration of humanistic, cognitive, and narrative frameworks.
I view counseling as a journey of awareness, growth, and self-compassion. As your travel companion, I aim to provide insight, encouragement, and a gentle nudge to help you reach your destination. I work with individuals, groups, and families of all ages and backgrounds and have specialized experience helping clients with issues of anxiety, grief, trauma, spirituality, self-harm, and gender identity. When appropriate, I offer dreamwork, sandtray therapy, and psychotherapeutic Reiki interventions. My approach is collaborative and respectful, primarily drawing from an integration of humanistic, cognitive, and narrative frameworks.
![Photo of Amy Fowler, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2770b2a4-f57c-4280-98b7-6a6726e47a99/5/320x400.jpeg)
If you feel weighed down by overwhelming emotions and life events, an empathetic ear can be a source of healing. I am passionate about working toward hope with those who feel stuck, broken, isolated, or for whom change seems impossible. I advocate for and teach clients the power of fierce self-compassion, which allows them to explore their thoughts, emotions, and actions more clearly. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, loss, trauma, chronic health issues, marital and parental challenges, spiritual wounds, disordered eating, and addictions.
If you feel weighed down by overwhelming emotions and life events, an empathetic ear can be a source of healing. I am passionate about working toward hope with those who feel stuck, broken, isolated, or for whom change seems impossible. I advocate for and teach clients the power of fierce self-compassion, which allows them to explore their thoughts, emotions, and actions more clearly. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, loss, trauma, chronic health issues, marital and parental challenges, spiritual wounds, disordered eating, and addictions.
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![Photo of Tori Ballard, MA, NCC, MFT-1, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/130d4ed6-a659-44bf-bd3b-44d8f861bc18/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tori Ballard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, MFT-1
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405
Through the ups and downs of life, one thing remains a constant— you. I help my clients foster a relationship with themselves with a sense of curiosity, acceptance, and grace. Life can be tough and confusing, but you are strong and resilient. I want to walk alongside you, hear your story, and offer a safe space for expression and exploration. It is my belief that people make sense- the person who starves themselves, or isolates when sad, or can’t find relief from that nervous feeling in their stomach, all make sense. You are not alone. Let’s walk towards healing together.
Through the ups and downs of life, one thing remains a constant— you. I help my clients foster a relationship with themselves with a sense of curiosity, acceptance, and grace. Life can be tough and confusing, but you are strong and resilient. I want to walk alongside you, hear your story, and offer a safe space for expression and exploration. It is my belief that people make sense- the person who starves themselves, or isolates when sad, or can’t find relief from that nervous feeling in their stomach, all make sense. You are not alone. Let’s walk towards healing together.
![Photo of Darah Ashlie, MA, BCCC, Pastoral Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4806553-6afa-43ef-be3b-c026fe3fecb2/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Christian Counselor who works with women to help them move from feeling overwhelmed and stuck in life to being able to thrive in their homes and relationships. I am trained in emotional abuse, trauma, the effects of narcissism in relationships, and grief. I specialize in helping women overcome the pain of domestic abuse, church hurt, and spiritual abuse. I also work with many women who are struggling with burnout and extreme stress, or who are struggling with perfectionism, overthinking, people pleasing, low self worth, feelings of shame, or trouble finding their purpose and calling in life.
I am a Board Certified Christian Counselor who works with women to help them move from feeling overwhelmed and stuck in life to being able to thrive in their homes and relationships. I am trained in emotional abuse, trauma, the effects of narcissism in relationships, and grief. I specialize in helping women overcome the pain of domestic abuse, church hurt, and spiritual abuse. I also work with many women who are struggling with burnout and extreme stress, or who are struggling with perfectionism, overthinking, people pleasing, low self worth, feelings of shame, or trouble finding their purpose and calling in life.
![Photo of Jennifer M. Weller, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/201d1893-e286-4580-bd4b-2d6ab8f25098/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer M. Weller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37421
Waitlist for new clients
On the outside it looks like you have it all together. But on the inside you never feel good enough and the voice in your head is quick to remind you of all the ways you’re falling short. You've spent the last however-many-years trying to keep everything together, but it’s exhausting, and you don’t think you can do it anymore. You're tired of giving so much to everyone else while you continue to come last on your list. Not anymore. It's time for a change.
On the outside it looks like you have it all together. But on the inside you never feel good enough and the voice in your head is quick to remind you of all the ways you’re falling short. You've spent the last however-many-years trying to keep everything together, but it’s exhausting, and you don’t think you can do it anymore. You're tired of giving so much to everyone else while you continue to come last on your list. Not anymore. It's time for a change.
![Photo of Martha Law, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58388465-3a4a-4f34-bc8d-ec0cc9ce860d/1/320x400.jpeg)
My passion is helping clients find what works for them. My heart is focused on helping people with substance use issues, self-esteem, and all kinds of relationships. Do you ever find yourself feeling stuck in these areas or desiring some kind of change? I would love to help guide you to find alternatives and perspective shifts that can help you tackle your problems with increased confidence and curiosity.
My passion is helping clients find what works for them. My heart is focused on helping people with substance use issues, self-esteem, and all kinds of relationships. Do you ever find yourself feeling stuck in these areas or desiring some kind of change? I would love to help guide you to find alternatives and perspective shifts that can help you tackle your problems with increased confidence and curiosity.
![Photo of Mark Luff, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f76f6eac-60fb-4216-9b05-bb10a8f6dbf3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mark Luff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37421
You’re discouraged that life isn’t measuring up to what you had hoped. You fake it so it seems like you have it all together, but you feel dissatisfied, hopeless, and empty. Feeling disconnected from the most important people in your life, and even from yourself has really taken its toll. I’m here to help. Life's hard and it’s easy to get caught up in the busyness, losing sight of what really matters. It becomes more characterized by depression, anxiety, conflict, loneliness, and addiction; more so than the peace and fulfillment that is desired. Distressing feelings like these is likely what brought you here, hoping for help!
You’re discouraged that life isn’t measuring up to what you had hoped. You fake it so it seems like you have it all together, but you feel dissatisfied, hopeless, and empty. Feeling disconnected from the most important people in your life, and even from yourself has really taken its toll. I’m here to help. Life's hard and it’s easy to get caught up in the busyness, losing sight of what really matters. It becomes more characterized by depression, anxiety, conflict, loneliness, and addiction; more so than the peace and fulfillment that is desired. Distressing feelings like these is likely what brought you here, hoping for help!
![Photo of Raven Thompson, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df81b87b-7ef1-436e-8a63-5b3415780988/2/320x400.jpeg)
Raven Thompson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37415
It can be difficult navigating life's hardships alone. You have taken a brave step in seeking out therapy, and I want to honor that. My goal is to create a warm environment where you can explore your thoughts and how they have impacted your life story. My top priority is to maintain a non-judgemental presence during our time together, which I hope will empower you to better understand the agency you possess. I love to take the time to laugh when appropriate, and to incorporate the interests you have into our work together.
It can be difficult navigating life's hardships alone. You have taken a brave step in seeking out therapy, and I want to honor that. My goal is to create a warm environment where you can explore your thoughts and how they have impacted your life story. My top priority is to maintain a non-judgemental presence during our time together, which I hope will empower you to better understand the agency you possess. I love to take the time to laugh when appropriate, and to incorporate the interests you have into our work together.
![Photo of Nadine Steele, LADAC, ICADC, CADC-II, SAP, NCLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9840eab-24bf-4be7-9d0c-6e71de811bc8/6/320x400.jpeg)
Nadine Steele
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADAC, ICADC, CADC-II, SAP, NCLC
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37415
If you're feeling overwhelmed, Steele Recovery Addiction Support Services may be what you need. My name is Nadine Steele and I am a licensed/certified Addiction Counselor & Coach for men, women & families. Since 1995 I have worked in the field of addiction from residential to drug court. We know there are many problems that addiction brings and we want to help by offering support in various modalities. Let me know if we can help.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, Steele Recovery Addiction Support Services may be what you need. My name is Nadine Steele and I am a licensed/certified Addiction Counselor & Coach for men, women & families. Since 1995 I have worked in the field of addiction from residential to drug court. We know there are many problems that addiction brings and we want to help by offering support in various modalities. Let me know if we can help.
![Photo of William A Wray, EdD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e92b0cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide counseling and consultative services. With the help of my colleague, Mark Shively, we also provide training using biofeedback technology. As a counselor, my role is to listen, discern strengths and vulnerabilities, and invite growth/advancement from those placing trust in my care. As a consultant, I strive to provide fair/impartial answers (in the manner of a scientist) to posed questions. Cognitive-behavioral training can address many thought patterns, behaviors and physiological states (such as stress).
I provide counseling and consultative services. With the help of my colleague, Mark Shively, we also provide training using biofeedback technology. As a counselor, my role is to listen, discern strengths and vulnerabilities, and invite growth/advancement from those placing trust in my care. As a consultant, I strive to provide fair/impartial answers (in the manner of a scientist) to posed questions. Cognitive-behavioral training can address many thought patterns, behaviors and physiological states (such as stress).
![Photo of Sydney McLees, LPC Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc4ac45c-fc8e-47d6-9fc3-0d90ccbcc2b8/2/320x400.png)
Being a human is complicated and often overwhelming, but there is peace to be found amongst the chaos. If you find yourself in a difficult place, the decision to begin therapy is not an easy one, but it is a first step in offering yourself acceptance, love, and a path forward. I strive to create a safe space for you to process your unique life circumstances through an integrative and collaborative approach that values your perspectives, therapeutic goals, and evolving needs. Together, we can address difficulties such as trauma, anxiety, depression and suicidality, as well as life transitions and self-esteem concerns.
Being a human is complicated and often overwhelming, but there is peace to be found amongst the chaos. If you find yourself in a difficult place, the decision to begin therapy is not an easy one, but it is a first step in offering yourself acceptance, love, and a path forward. I strive to create a safe space for you to process your unique life circumstances through an integrative and collaborative approach that values your perspectives, therapeutic goals, and evolving needs. Together, we can address difficulties such as trauma, anxiety, depression and suicidality, as well as life transitions and self-esteem concerns.
See more therapy options for Chattanooga
Nearby Searches for Chattanooga
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How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Chattanooga, TN
500+
Average cost per session
$120
Therapists in Chattanooga, TN who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
83% | Depression |
80% | Relationship Issues |
78% | Self Esteem |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Coping Skills |
73% | Stress |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
76% | Aetna |
76% | Cigna and Evernorth |
66% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Chattanooga, TN see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
20% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Chattanooga?
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.