Therapists in San Diego, CA
![Photo of Alan Camardo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/323c3520-8afb-45e3-9ec0-0ef28eaebb1d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am here to support you in taking the steps that lead to growth and positive change. My approach is compassionate, curious, direct, and warm. For Individuals: In our sessions, we will explore and build insight into behavior patterns that leave you feeling stuck or dissatisfied. We will collaborate to help you gain relief from symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, and other concerns. I will work with you to discover the path(s) that will lead you to a more fulfilling life. I have specialized experience working with relationship and substance use issues.
I am here to support you in taking the steps that lead to growth and positive change. My approach is compassionate, curious, direct, and warm. For Individuals: In our sessions, we will explore and build insight into behavior patterns that leave you feeling stuck or dissatisfied. We will collaborate to help you gain relief from symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, and other concerns. I will work with you to discover the path(s) that will lead you to a more fulfilling life. I have specialized experience working with relationship and substance use issues.
![Photo of Julia Rosengren, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4745901e-19fa-4c2f-a614-48f812925bff/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in addiction/dual diagnosis, but treat various mental health problems as well (depression, anxiety, relationship problems, etc.). I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a psychodynamic approach, but I alter treatment depending on your needs. Feeling stagnant as well as drug and alcohol concerns are often a result of deeper struggles such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and obstacles in your daily life. If you are feeling stuck and are grappling with how to move forward I can help guide you through it. *Please say your name when prompted when you call, otherwise your call will not go through.*
I specialize in addiction/dual diagnosis, but treat various mental health problems as well (depression, anxiety, relationship problems, etc.). I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a psychodynamic approach, but I alter treatment depending on your needs. Feeling stagnant as well as drug and alcohol concerns are often a result of deeper struggles such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and obstacles in your daily life. If you are feeling stuck and are grappling with how to move forward I can help guide you through it. *Please say your name when prompted when you call, otherwise your call will not go through.*
![Photo of Coping With Anxiety Or Depression -Lindsay MacMaster, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a9be88e-3b98-4fe5-9c18-0967b454afe8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Coping With Anxiety Or Depression -Lindsay MacMaster
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92119
I’m Lindsay MacMaster PsyD, a licensed Clinical Psychologist in the San Diego area. When you work with me, I create a setting that is warm and compassionate, a space that allows you to best connect with what is bothering you. Counseling helps you learn how to become your best self. Your therapist can support you as you lean into life’s most difficult challenges rather than shy away from them.
I’m Lindsay MacMaster PsyD, a licensed Clinical Psychologist in the San Diego area. When you work with me, I create a setting that is warm and compassionate, a space that allows you to best connect with what is bothering you. Counseling helps you learn how to become your best self. Your therapist can support you as you lean into life’s most difficult challenges rather than shy away from them.
![Photo of Shoma Rao, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41bc32c0-8d50-4b72-907f-882cbfb4f22c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Starting and staying in therapy can be intimidating! It doesn’t have to be that way. I enjoy using humor and just being a fellow human with my clients while we navigate the path of mental health together. Having a session with me is like talking to an old friend. I strongly believe that the connection between the therapist and yourself is the most crucial aspect of a successful therapeutic relationship. I treat adults 18 and over in our lovely state of California via telehealth (video) who are dealing with anxiety, boundary issues and difficult relationship and family dynamics along with career strategizing and coaching.
Starting and staying in therapy can be intimidating! It doesn’t have to be that way. I enjoy using humor and just being a fellow human with my clients while we navigate the path of mental health together. Having a session with me is like talking to an old friend. I strongly believe that the connection between the therapist and yourself is the most crucial aspect of a successful therapeutic relationship. I treat adults 18 and over in our lovely state of California via telehealth (video) who are dealing with anxiety, boundary issues and difficult relationship and family dynamics along with career strategizing and coaching.
![Photo of Judy Kaplan Baron - Judy Kaplan Baron, Ph.D., Master Career Counselor, PhD, LMFT, NCCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be562a9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Judy Kaplan Baron, Ph.D., Master Career Counselor
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, NCCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121 (Online Only)
Life can be challenging, frustrating, and difficult. Rather than being depressed anxious, angry, or frustrated, consider positive ways to move ahead. If career, relationship problems, or other personal issues are getting you down, learn how to overcome the difficulties. I offer practical strategies and insight that can make huge differences in the quality of your life.
Sometimes, a different perspective or problem-solving idea provides enough clarity to help you be happier. For over 25 years, I have been assisting people just like you in making healthier, life changing decisions leading to happier, more fulfilling personal and professional lives.
Life can be challenging, frustrating, and difficult. Rather than being depressed anxious, angry, or frustrated, consider positive ways to move ahead. If career, relationship problems, or other personal issues are getting you down, learn how to overcome the difficulties. I offer practical strategies and insight that can make huge differences in the quality of your life.
Sometimes, a different perspective or problem-solving idea provides enough clarity to help you be happier. For over 25 years, I have been assisting people just like you in making healthier, life changing decisions leading to happier, more fulfilling personal and professional lives.
![Photo of Matthew T Daues, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b82abd1b-6760-4d05-b55e-b0049982ba3b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matthew T Daues
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
California or Missouri residents-Please email or call to schedule an appointment! All sessions are virtual online video sessions. I specialize in helping people with anxiety and depression and managing relationship issues. Clients often describe my style as laid-back, personable and engaging. Life is challenging at times. Let's have a conversation about what you are going through and see how our discussions might help you! I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for 25 years.
California or Missouri residents-Please email or call to schedule an appointment! All sessions are virtual online video sessions. I specialize in helping people with anxiety and depression and managing relationship issues. Clients often describe my style as laid-back, personable and engaging. Life is challenging at times. Let's have a conversation about what you are going through and see how our discussions might help you! I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for 25 years.
![Photo of Susan Graf-Cote, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46ab8747-6a29-4bb5-9a9d-82a20d05f9e7/3/320x400.jpeg)
By promoting a safe space where you can create, and recreate the you that is well. Tapping into the strengths that live in your heart, we will gain access to your ideals and understanding and build upon them. We will awaken the part of you that will teach you to become your own coach. I will introduce you to several techniques and theoretical orientations that best suit you. I will not subject you to change through somebody elses belief systems instead of your own. With my guidance, you will find the answers to change your life and find peace.
By promoting a safe space where you can create, and recreate the you that is well. Tapping into the strengths that live in your heart, we will gain access to your ideals and understanding and build upon them. We will awaken the part of you that will teach you to become your own coach. I will introduce you to several techniques and theoretical orientations that best suit you. I will not subject you to change through somebody elses belief systems instead of your own. With my guidance, you will find the answers to change your life and find peace.
![Photo of Jessica Rosas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95630641-78b5-4d2b-92a2-5e8fa0e25e08/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessie (she/they) is a Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples, and families. She has experience in dealing with a wide range of clinical and relational problems. Jessie is passionate about serving LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities.
Jessie (she/they) is a Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples, and families. She has experience in dealing with a wide range of clinical and relational problems. Jessie is passionate about serving LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities.
![Photo of Richard Benfante, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d361555-7e80-471e-8177-fc2d97076d35/1/320x400.png)
Rich Benfante treats patients starting at 13-year-old. Rich Benfante is a Licensed MFT with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. He has experience working with adolescents, adults, and families providing individual, crisis, and family therapy to clients who come from different socio-economical backgrounds with a vast array of mental health needs. Rich has experience working in schools, residential programs, and in the community. He has also worked with foster youth, persons on probation, victims of violence and abuse, military and law enforcement, clients struggling with substance issues, and persons of faith.
Rich Benfante treats patients starting at 13-year-old. Rich Benfante is a Licensed MFT with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. He has experience working with adolescents, adults, and families providing individual, crisis, and family therapy to clients who come from different socio-economical backgrounds with a vast array of mental health needs. Rich has experience working in schools, residential programs, and in the community. He has also worked with foster youth, persons on probation, victims of violence and abuse, military and law enforcement, clients struggling with substance issues, and persons of faith.
![Photo of Norman Severe, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d98344-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you. My name is Dr. Norman Severe and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who has worked in our local San Diego community for over 20 years. For the past seventeen years, I have devoted my private practice to serving the mental health needs of children, adolescents and families in need of therapeutic and psychological support. I beleive everyone can achieve great things in their lives by recognizing their strengths, working through struggles and overcoming obstacles by persevering and never giving up.
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you. My name is Dr. Norman Severe and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who has worked in our local San Diego community for over 20 years. For the past seventeen years, I have devoted my private practice to serving the mental health needs of children, adolescents and families in need of therapeutic and psychological support. I beleive everyone can achieve great things in their lives by recognizing their strengths, working through struggles and overcoming obstacles by persevering and never giving up.
![Photo of Stephen Scherer, EdD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40493a08-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am licensed in California with 18 years of experience as an individual practitioner. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, sleeping disorders, depression, and communication issues. My work is focused on Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), techniques useful for significant behavioral challenges. I am also versed in Behavior Analysis, which is helpful to address problematic habits and the establishment of new, more productive behaviors. If you feel that I might be of help for you, please reach out and we can discuss your needs further.
I am licensed in California with 18 years of experience as an individual practitioner. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, sleeping disorders, depression, and communication issues. My work is focused on Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), techniques useful for significant behavioral challenges. I am also versed in Behavior Analysis, which is helpful to address problematic habits and the establishment of new, more productive behaviors. If you feel that I might be of help for you, please reach out and we can discuss your needs further.
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![Photo of Leslie Westbrook, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d48955e1-9458-47c1-8e55-a9bd9855011e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, my name is Leslie Westbrook, and I am an LMFT (127260). I am passionate about helping clients achieve their goals, and I believe I have the skills and knowledge to do just that. I'm excited to learn more about you and how I can help. My approach to providing therapy is to create a safe and nonjudgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in taking an integrative approach that draws from a variety of therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and mindfulness-based therapies.
Hi, my name is Leslie Westbrook, and I am an LMFT (127260). I am passionate about helping clients achieve their goals, and I believe I have the skills and knowledge to do just that. I'm excited to learn more about you and how I can help. My approach to providing therapy is to create a safe and nonjudgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in taking an integrative approach that draws from a variety of therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and mindfulness-based therapies.
![Photo of Crystal Rea, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/140b3d5d-99b2-49b0-bcb5-5f89ce45507b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Crystal Rea
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
Are you, your partner, or your child experiencing feelings of anxiety or sadness? Are you having a hard time coping with a recent transition or loss? If so, I am here to help you on your journey towards growth and healing. I believe that when someone is going through a difficult time, it may also impact important relationships around them. For that reason, my practice not only sees individual clients, but also includes seeing families and couples. I provide a combination of strength-based, experiential, and cognitive behavioral therapies that I adapt to meet the individual needs of you and your family.
Are you, your partner, or your child experiencing feelings of anxiety or sadness? Are you having a hard time coping with a recent transition or loss? If so, I am here to help you on your journey towards growth and healing. I believe that when someone is going through a difficult time, it may also impact important relationships around them. For that reason, my practice not only sees individual clients, but also includes seeing families and couples. I provide a combination of strength-based, experiential, and cognitive behavioral therapies that I adapt to meet the individual needs of you and your family.
![Photo of Alexandra Borchard, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1756af8-8335-4ea1-95e3-1fea13a8b066/1/320x400.jpeg)
I hold a firm belief in the inherent capacity for growth and transformation present within every individual. In the therapeutic process, I hold space for the possibility of profound change, nurturing a mindset that honors the unique journey of all my clients. I am dedicated to creating a space where every individual can experience the freedom to live fully and authentically. "A love ethic presupposes that everyone has the right to be free, to live fully and well." -bell hooks
I hold a firm belief in the inherent capacity for growth and transformation present within every individual. In the therapeutic process, I hold space for the possibility of profound change, nurturing a mindset that honors the unique journey of all my clients. I am dedicated to creating a space where every individual can experience the freedom to live fully and authentically. "A love ethic presupposes that everyone has the right to be free, to live fully and well." -bell hooks
![Photo of Kimthu Trinh - Dr. Kimthu Trinh-Energy Psychology & Wellness, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/819f1a94-8624-43dc-90a5-086237b9f7bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kimthu Trinh-Energy Psychology & Wellness
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92111
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Kimthu Trinh a Licensed Psychologist, Forensic Consultant, Divorce Mediator with over 20+ years of experience in providing both therapy & evaluation for adults, children, and families in various settings such as private practice, correctional facilities, counseling centers, and local schools throughout CA. She is qualified to administer & interpret a wide range of tests: Medical Certification for Disability, Fitness for Duty, Competency to stand trial, Risks to re-offend, Criminal mitigation assessments, Pre-employment evaluation, Pre-surgical clearances. She has extensive training in Energy Psychology, Neurofeedback, and EMDR.
Dr. Kimthu Trinh a Licensed Psychologist, Forensic Consultant, Divorce Mediator with over 20+ years of experience in providing both therapy & evaluation for adults, children, and families in various settings such as private practice, correctional facilities, counseling centers, and local schools throughout CA. She is qualified to administer & interpret a wide range of tests: Medical Certification for Disability, Fitness for Duty, Competency to stand trial, Risks to re-offend, Criminal mitigation assessments, Pre-employment evaluation, Pre-surgical clearances. She has extensive training in Energy Psychology, Neurofeedback, and EMDR.
![Photo of Cassandra Gilbert, MSCP, APCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a06d4045-a4da-4b1c-9e6b-7bcdac850c8d/1/320x400.png)
Cassandra Gilbert
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSCP, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123 (Online Only)
Ready to heal, but don’t know where to start? Where you are now is just the beginning of your next chapter and I'm happy to support you! Hi! I’m Cassandra Gilbert, a culturally sensitive pre-licensed professional counselor & mental wellness advocate. I understand the deep desire to heal and break out of patterns, but not knowing where to start. My personal experience with healing and therapy shaped my desire to help others create meaningful change within themselves & their lives. As a woman of color, and a mother, I am a strong advocate for mental health services for women, BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities.
Ready to heal, but don’t know where to start? Where you are now is just the beginning of your next chapter and I'm happy to support you! Hi! I’m Cassandra Gilbert, a culturally sensitive pre-licensed professional counselor & mental wellness advocate. I understand the deep desire to heal and break out of patterns, but not knowing where to start. My personal experience with healing and therapy shaped my desire to help others create meaningful change within themselves & their lives. As a woman of color, and a mother, I am a strong advocate for mental health services for women, BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities.
![Photo of Jessika Fruchter, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1dfef2a-9247-4692-89a0-92b6d1c23546/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessika Fruchter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116 (Online Only)
If you’ve found your way here, your world may feel upside down and out of control. It's possible your body feels the same. Many of the perimenopausal women I work with are in the throes of mood fluctuations, vacillating between anxiety, sadness and rage. Some report brain fog, insomnia, and other physical challenges. And then there’s the existential crunch of entering a new phase of life and managing the personal, interpersonal dynamics and social pressures that go along with midlife. However you feel, whatever you think about this transition is okay. There is no right way to navigate perimenopause and I am here to help.
If you’ve found your way here, your world may feel upside down and out of control. It's possible your body feels the same. Many of the perimenopausal women I work with are in the throes of mood fluctuations, vacillating between anxiety, sadness and rage. Some report brain fog, insomnia, and other physical challenges. And then there’s the existential crunch of entering a new phase of life and managing the personal, interpersonal dynamics and social pressures that go along with midlife. However you feel, whatever you think about this transition is okay. There is no right way to navigate perimenopause and I am here to help.
![Photo of Jareny Castillo, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf520661-509f-4e22-9e65-cfd8b832714b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Living anything outside of your authentic self can be exhausting. The lies we've been telling ourselves about who we are and how we should take up space in this world keep us stuck. However, we have the power to challenge these limiting beliefs and redefine them to lead us into a life of fulfillment and joy. I invite you to take this journey as an existential experience of self-understanding, healing, and growth.
Living anything outside of your authentic self can be exhausting. The lies we've been telling ourselves about who we are and how we should take up space in this world keep us stuck. However, we have the power to challenge these limiting beliefs and redefine them to lead us into a life of fulfillment and joy. I invite you to take this journey as an existential experience of self-understanding, healing, and growth.
![Photo of Victoria R. Leon, ASW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8da5d01-ec49-419f-866d-9a8faaabcba3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria R. Leon
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117 (Online Only)
As a therapist with a lived experience, I specialize in addressing the complex intersection of eating disorders and religious trauma, as well as co-occurring challenges including depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and grief. I offer a brave, non-judgmental space where individuals can reclaim agency and implement strategies aligned with their strengths and goals
As a therapist with a lived experience, I specialize in addressing the complex intersection of eating disorders and religious trauma, as well as co-occurring challenges including depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and grief. I offer a brave, non-judgmental space where individuals can reclaim agency and implement strategies aligned with their strengths and goals
![Photo of Ann Minnich - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac722554-138e-4717-912a-7c7940b2c736/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ann Minnich - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
See more therapy options for San Diego
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in San Diego, CA
3,000+
Average cost per session
$160
Therapists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
70% | Self Esteem |
66% | Coping Skills |
65% | Relationship Issues |
64% | Trauma and PTSD |
62% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | Aetna |
74% | Cigna and Evernorth |
68% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in San Diego, CA see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in San Diego?
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.