Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
![Photo of Laura Kokinda, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c927e420-871c-44cb-b098-528483bbdc0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Recognizing that you are in a new phase of life brings a variety of challenges that can cause anxiety, stress and other uncomfortable reactions. Navigating these phases are often called a "crisis", like the midlife crisis or quarter life crisis. Even adjusting to retirement or new circumstances late in life can feel incredibly destabilizing. While change is challenging, it also brings an opportunity for growth and reassessing your goals and progress towards the life you want. You don't have the navigate these phases alone.
Recognizing that you are in a new phase of life brings a variety of challenges that can cause anxiety, stress and other uncomfortable reactions. Navigating these phases are often called a "crisis", like the midlife crisis or quarter life crisis. Even adjusting to retirement or new circumstances late in life can feel incredibly destabilizing. While change is challenging, it also brings an opportunity for growth and reassessing your goals and progress towards the life you want. You don't have the navigate these phases alone.
![Photo of Daniel Anderson - Daniel Anderson PhD, Adult-Child Psychotherapy, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43af3766-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel Anderson PhD, Adult-Child Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
You may already have answers to your struggles, though these answers are unconscious. I specialize in working with your unconscious, the side of you that is neglected, ignored or rejected. This is a powerful mode of therapy that can help you with your anxiety, depression or relationships. I work with adults, and have specialized training to work with children, adolescents and their parents. My work with children focuses on play therapy, the child's best form of communication. With adults I use my Jungian training in dreamwork and symbolism to access the unheard side of yourself, which can enrich your life and relieve your suffering.
You may already have answers to your struggles, though these answers are unconscious. I specialize in working with your unconscious, the side of you that is neglected, ignored or rejected. This is a powerful mode of therapy that can help you with your anxiety, depression or relationships. I work with adults, and have specialized training to work with children, adolescents and their parents. My work with children focuses on play therapy, the child's best form of communication. With adults I use my Jungian training in dreamwork and symbolism to access the unheard side of yourself, which can enrich your life and relieve your suffering.
![Photo of Maca Santelices, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0eba55e5-b9d6-4bbb-ae85-4d8ca55b6006/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maca Santelices
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Do you struggle with anxiety or depression, issues in your relationship, low self esteem or self concept that affect your day to day life, work, & ability to function properly. Do you feel low, lost, overwhelmed, frustrated by just trying to get through your day? Do you wonder if your life could be better? Now more than ever individuals are struggling with finding motivation, satisfaction and feeling uncertain about themselves & their lives. Not addressing your struggles can lead to issues with achieving your goals and finding satisfaction in your life. I believe there is hope & answers to address any problem you may be facing.
Do you struggle with anxiety or depression, issues in your relationship, low self esteem or self concept that affect your day to day life, work, & ability to function properly. Do you feel low, lost, overwhelmed, frustrated by just trying to get through your day? Do you wonder if your life could be better? Now more than ever individuals are struggling with finding motivation, satisfaction and feeling uncertain about themselves & their lives. Not addressing your struggles can lead to issues with achieving your goals and finding satisfaction in your life. I believe there is hope & answers to address any problem you may be facing.
![Photo of Tracy Kovacs Bevington - Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c4c9769-09e1-4f1b-bd58-db0efb6e3195/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Pacific MFT Network is a group of highly skilled, diverse, and well-trained therapists. Our mission is to empower you to live the life you want. We do so by creating supportive, caring, and non-judgmental relationships with our clients. We work to provide you with the best care possible and reduce obstacles to participation. Additional benefits to working with us include a unique concierge billing service and a wide range of scheduling options (all weekdays, weekends, day and evening appointments are available). We work with children, teens, and adults of all ages.
Pacific MFT Network is a group of highly skilled, diverse, and well-trained therapists. Our mission is to empower you to live the life you want. We do so by creating supportive, caring, and non-judgmental relationships with our clients. We work to provide you with the best care possible and reduce obstacles to participation. Additional benefits to working with us include a unique concierge billing service and a wide range of scheduling options (all weekdays, weekends, day and evening appointments are available). We work with children, teens, and adults of all ages.
![Photo of Isabella Dutra, MA, APCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/685d21d7-af5c-498b-9466-33ff3aa2a47f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Isabella Dutra
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I specialize in working with individual’s dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and issues stemming from ADHD. I work with children, adolescents, and adults as well as couples and families. I also have extensive experience working with individuals with social anxiety and ASD. I strive to provide clients with a safe, compassionate, judgement-free space in which we work together to understand one's unique goals and deeper rooted needs. I welcome all my clients to show up as they are, my job being to meet you there and help you move forward.
I specialize in working with individual’s dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and issues stemming from ADHD. I work with children, adolescents, and adults as well as couples and families. I also have extensive experience working with individuals with social anxiety and ASD. I strive to provide clients with a safe, compassionate, judgement-free space in which we work together to understand one's unique goals and deeper rooted needs. I welcome all my clients to show up as they are, my job being to meet you there and help you move forward.
![Photo of Janice Taylor, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e946205-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Janice Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
I offer a pragmatic approach designed to help clients identify and change behaviors that are preventing them from living the life they want. We all developed coping strategies when we were young to protect ourselves. While they helped us survive at the time, they are often the very things holding us back now.
I offer a pragmatic approach designed to help clients identify and change behaviors that are preventing them from living the life they want. We all developed coping strategies when we were young to protect ourselves. While they helped us survive at the time, they are often the very things holding us back now.
![Photo of Daniya Ahmed, MSMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ba22b83-4616-441a-af79-24f4073fa43a/5/320x400.jpeg)
Daniya Ahmed
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MSMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Have you found yourself feeling increasingly anxious, worried, and stuck in patterns that cause you harm? Are you looking to develop better habits whether its boundaries with parents, healthy dating, or stress management? The current political and humanitarian climate might also be causing a sense of despair and re-trigger any past trauma or stress. My clients come to my therapy room to have a safe space to unwind, explore, rewire, breakdown, and find some grounding. I use a combination of mind-body teachings to guide you in exploring present triggers, the creation and history of them, & ways to release them in and out of session.
Have you found yourself feeling increasingly anxious, worried, and stuck in patterns that cause you harm? Are you looking to develop better habits whether its boundaries with parents, healthy dating, or stress management? The current political and humanitarian climate might also be causing a sense of despair and re-trigger any past trauma or stress. My clients come to my therapy room to have a safe space to unwind, explore, rewire, breakdown, and find some grounding. I use a combination of mind-body teachings to guide you in exploring present triggers, the creation and history of them, & ways to release them in and out of session.
![Photo of (Shayna) Jean Lester, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c95df83-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
(Shayna) Jean Lester
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402 (Online Only)
I am excited to add a new element to my practice! Soul Retrieval! Learn how to tap your intuition and your authentic self through the use of spiritual,not religious,tools. If you are suffering from past or present traumas,abuse, poor communication or just not feeling cherished, now is the time to seek help. I am able to serve you with solution based and spiritual counseling. I listen deeply with great intention as I work with individuals using techniques that are tailored for you and your situation. We will work toward new awareness for resolution and healing. My intention is to see the authenticity and ‘holy’ soul in everyone.
I am excited to add a new element to my practice! Soul Retrieval! Learn how to tap your intuition and your authentic self through the use of spiritual,not religious,tools. If you are suffering from past or present traumas,abuse, poor communication or just not feeling cherished, now is the time to seek help. I am able to serve you with solution based and spiritual counseling. I listen deeply with great intention as I work with individuals using techniques that are tailored for you and your situation. We will work toward new awareness for resolution and healing. My intention is to see the authenticity and ‘holy’ soul in everyone.
![Photo of Angie Vargas, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17f45dc6-12d0-4610-b2c8-072d378f675b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angie Vargas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
Angie is an alternative Latina therapist from the Salvadorean diaspora, first-generation born and bred in Santa Monica (Tongva land), child of immigrants, and the big sister in her family. Angie earned a Master's in Social Work from UCLA, specializing in School Social Work, and a B.A. in Sociology with a minor in Chicanx Studies at CSUN. For nearly a decade, Angie has been working with children, youth and families in community mental health and K-12 schools. The last two years serving as Manager of School-based Services, Clinical Supervisor to MSWs, Coordinator of Reflective Parenting Groups and in Private Practice for QTBIPOC/ WOC.
Angie is an alternative Latina therapist from the Salvadorean diaspora, first-generation born and bred in Santa Monica (Tongva land), child of immigrants, and the big sister in her family. Angie earned a Master's in Social Work from UCLA, specializing in School Social Work, and a B.A. in Sociology with a minor in Chicanx Studies at CSUN. For nearly a decade, Angie has been working with children, youth and families in community mental health and K-12 schools. The last two years serving as Manager of School-based Services, Clinical Supervisor to MSWs, Coordinator of Reflective Parenting Groups and in Private Practice for QTBIPOC/ WOC.
![Photo of Dr. Cate Vogl, PsyD, MFT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cdc4423-5a7e-4cf1-88df-7089a00ec665/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide a warm and non-judgmental space where we can work collaboratively to decrease your symptoms and reach your goals. Together, we can develop awareness of patterns that might be creating stuck points in your life, as well as process things from your past that may be impacting your present. My style is compassionate, interactive and direct when needed. Ultimately, my goal is to help you lead a more fulfilling and authentic life.
I provide a warm and non-judgmental space where we can work collaboratively to decrease your symptoms and reach your goals. Together, we can develop awareness of patterns that might be creating stuck points in your life, as well as process things from your past that may be impacting your present. My style is compassionate, interactive and direct when needed. Ultimately, my goal is to help you lead a more fulfilling and authentic life.
![Photo of Brandy Ziriax, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de11c2bb-2c5e-4cab-bb4a-b5cbb716cf3c/1/320x400.png)
Asking for help is hard. However, once you take that first step, it can be life-changing. Anything is possible by learning practical communication skills and building a positive self-view. My approach prioritizes my client’s needs and input to help them help themselves. I hold degrees in psychology and Biology, which provide an awareness and understanding of biological, chemical, and psychological intersections for mental health treatment.
Asking for help is hard. However, once you take that first step, it can be life-changing. Anything is possible by learning practical communication skills and building a positive self-view. My approach prioritizes my client’s needs and input to help them help themselves. I hold degrees in psychology and Biology, which provide an awareness and understanding of biological, chemical, and psychological intersections for mental health treatment.
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![Photo of Jessica La Rocca, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d221c2c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica La Rocca
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
My work as a therapist is to improve lives by energizing and empowering children, teenagers, and young adults to learn to love themselves and be the best they can be. I am dedicated to finding dynamic and creative ways to bring about inner healing while establishing a unique and genuine relationship with each client.
My work as a therapist is to improve lives by energizing and empowering children, teenagers, and young adults to learn to love themselves and be the best they can be. I am dedicated to finding dynamic and creative ways to bring about inner healing while establishing a unique and genuine relationship with each client.
![Photo of Rebekka Helford, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56a66698-3308-42ee-9906-a8efe93dd516/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebekka Helford
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Countless clients have expressed this frustration to me: “I know I do this, and I know why I do it. But that hasn’t stopped me from doing it! I’ve been in therapy for ages. What am I doing wrong?” If this sounds like you, you’ve come to the right place. Although developing insight into your challenges is a great first step toward healing, unfortunately, it cannot transform your life because of one hard fact: you cannot out-think your pain!
Countless clients have expressed this frustration to me: “I know I do this, and I know why I do it. But that hasn’t stopped me from doing it! I’ve been in therapy for ages. What am I doing wrong?” If this sounds like you, you’ve come to the right place. Although developing insight into your challenges is a great first step toward healing, unfortunately, it cannot transform your life because of one hard fact: you cannot out-think your pain!
![Photo of Kelli Fisher, LMFT, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f17da426-faef-4951-901e-e36fc78f6566/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelli Fisher
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
Kelli Fisher is a mental health professional with a background in sports medicine, clinical psychology, addiction recovery, and various alternative healing practices. As a dedicated social, environmental, and political activist, she advocates for LGBTQ individuals and those whose lives may fall outside conventional cultural norms. She combines attachment theory, CBT, humanistic psychology, ancient indigenous practices, neuroscience and modern therapeutic methods to help individuals develop coping skills, resolve past traumas, and embrace their authentic selves.
Kelli Fisher is a mental health professional with a background in sports medicine, clinical psychology, addiction recovery, and various alternative healing practices. As a dedicated social, environmental, and political activist, she advocates for LGBTQ individuals and those whose lives may fall outside conventional cultural norms. She combines attachment theory, CBT, humanistic psychology, ancient indigenous practices, neuroscience and modern therapeutic methods to help individuals develop coping skills, resolve past traumas, and embrace their authentic selves.
![Photo of Andrew Susskind, LCSW, SEP, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a974a2ce-c95c-4dbd-96da-12a50c7772d7/3/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Susskind
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, CGP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
As a result of working together, you'll learn to develop more satisfying relationships, navigate life transitions and clarify your wants and desires. By exploring what's most important in your life today, we will identify what you would like to see different in the future. By identifying themes and patterns of the past, you will feel more freedom and ease. Isn't it time to live your life to its fullest?
As a result of working together, you'll learn to develop more satisfying relationships, navigate life transitions and clarify your wants and desires. By exploring what's most important in your life today, we will identify what you would like to see different in the future. By identifying themes and patterns of the past, you will feel more freedom and ease. Isn't it time to live your life to its fullest?
![Photo of Jen Bloom, LMFT, MA, MFA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ad11c89-720b-4db8-88be-3fab1c886c2b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Empathy emancipates ... Divided we cannot endure - Amanda Gorman. Thanks for pausing here with me. Maybe we can work together to bring you back to centered peace, strength, sweeter awareness, and joy. Here, you are heard. I treat individuals navigating anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, grief, ADD/ADHD, and dynamic mood patterns hoping to live with less chaos and a lighter heart. My clients are often performing or creative artists and other professionals including the tech, medical, legal, education, and entertainment industries. My current clients and I are moving through a few things:
Empathy emancipates ... Divided we cannot endure - Amanda Gorman. Thanks for pausing here with me. Maybe we can work together to bring you back to centered peace, strength, sweeter awareness, and joy. Here, you are heard. I treat individuals navigating anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, grief, ADD/ADHD, and dynamic mood patterns hoping to live with less chaos and a lighter heart. My clients are often performing or creative artists and other professionals including the tech, medical, legal, education, and entertainment industries. My current clients and I are moving through a few things:
![Photo of Meredith Levy, LMFT, JD, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54a15ded-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My motto in therapy, and in life, is "whatever works!" What works for us in certain times of our lives no longer continues to works, and we need to shift gears. I'm casual and transparent with my clients. I believe that the relationship between client and therapist is the most critical part of therapy. If there isn't a connection, it won't work.. I've had quite a unique life and believe that this is part of what enables me to relate to almost anyone. I am straightforward and honest - not something everyone wants or likes! I will work as hard as you will and be as committed to making changes as you are!
My motto in therapy, and in life, is "whatever works!" What works for us in certain times of our lives no longer continues to works, and we need to shift gears. I'm casual and transparent with my clients. I believe that the relationship between client and therapist is the most critical part of therapy. If there isn't a connection, it won't work.. I've had quite a unique life and believe that this is part of what enables me to relate to almost anyone. I am straightforward and honest - not something everyone wants or likes! I will work as hard as you will and be as committed to making changes as you are!
![Photo of Elizabeth Hawkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a04566ed-2cf1-4c0d-b55f-91a014aa659f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Hawkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
When the topic of sexual intimacy comes up, you freeze. It’s confusing for you because although it’s something you want, you find yourself avoiding it as much as possible. Knowing that other people have satisfying sex lives makes you feel left behind or like something’s wrong with you. It’s hurting your confidence; preventing you from moving forward or connecting deeply with people. You feel like you’re betraying yourself. You want so badly to experience the kind of intimacy others experience. You’ve tried self-help books and talk therapy, but it didn’t make a difference. You wonder, “Is it related to my past? How could that be?”
When the topic of sexual intimacy comes up, you freeze. It’s confusing for you because although it’s something you want, you find yourself avoiding it as much as possible. Knowing that other people have satisfying sex lives makes you feel left behind or like something’s wrong with you. It’s hurting your confidence; preventing you from moving forward or connecting deeply with people. You feel like you’re betraying yourself. You want so badly to experience the kind of intimacy others experience. You’ve tried self-help books and talk therapy, but it didn’t make a difference. You wonder, “Is it related to my past? How could that be?”
![Photo of Rebecca Gorin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebfe48f7-cc71-4409-be44-71df344920a9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you experience overwhelming thoughts and/or emotions? Do you experience inner-conflict and self doubt? Do you find yourself stuck in old patterns/behaviors and unsure of how to change them? For many these experiences can result in feeling frustrated, scared, hopeless and alone, often coping in self-damaging ways. These are normal responses to trauma and overwhelming/painful experiences. While I incorporate more traditional evidenced based modalities such as CBT, and DBT, I also recognize that emotions, implicit memories and trauma can get stuck in the body, which is why talk therapy alone often isn’t enough.
Do you experience overwhelming thoughts and/or emotions? Do you experience inner-conflict and self doubt? Do you find yourself stuck in old patterns/behaviors and unsure of how to change them? For many these experiences can result in feeling frustrated, scared, hopeless and alone, often coping in self-damaging ways. These are normal responses to trauma and overwhelming/painful experiences. While I incorporate more traditional evidenced based modalities such as CBT, and DBT, I also recognize that emotions, implicit memories and trauma can get stuck in the body, which is why talk therapy alone often isn’t enough.
![Photo of Daniel C. Slavin, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f4f9176-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
If your goals or dreams have drifted, seem out of reach, or you just feel stuck, I can help navigate you to a better understanding of yourself for permanent change. I learn to speak your individual language, to help and coach you to live a more manageable and meaningful life. I take a goal-oriented approach to psychotherapy. My innovative techniques help to empower patients to learn the tools and strategies they need to navigate through life challenges. I will assist you in defining achievable goals and will help you learn simple, understandable procedures that will become second nature to help you reach those goals.
If your goals or dreams have drifted, seem out of reach, or you just feel stuck, I can help navigate you to a better understanding of yourself for permanent change. I learn to speak your individual language, to help and coach you to live a more manageable and meaningful life. I take a goal-oriented approach to psychotherapy. My innovative techniques help to empower patients to learn the tools and strategies they need to navigate through life challenges. I will assist you in defining achievable goals and will help you learn simple, understandable procedures that will become second nature to help you reach those goals.
See more therapy options for Santa Monica
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Santa Monica, CA
1,000+
Average cost per session
$200
Therapists in Santa Monica, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
85% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Self Esteem |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Stress |
65% | Grief |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
62% | Aetna |
49% | Cigna and Evernorth |
42% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Santa Monica, CA see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Santa Monica?
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.