Therapists in Virginia
![Photo of Melissa Crooks, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5e58ee1-fcaf-47ca-8a3b-174e3ba29c9b/1/320x400.png)
Melissa Crooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20120 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I received my Master’s degree in Social Work in 1999 from Virigina Commonwealth University and earned my Bachelor of Social Work in 1995 with a minor in Family Issues from James Madison University. I have worked in a variety of treatment settings (inpatient psychiatric, foster care, medical and school systems) that have afforded me a unique versatility to help others going through trauma, mental health issues, life transitions and challenging situations.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I received my Master’s degree in Social Work in 1999 from Virigina Commonwealth University and earned my Bachelor of Social Work in 1995 with a minor in Family Issues from James Madison University. I have worked in a variety of treatment settings (inpatient psychiatric, foster care, medical and school systems) that have afforded me a unique versatility to help others going through trauma, mental health issues, life transitions and challenging situations.
![Photo of Cynthia C Lissau, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d4c56c6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy "MAKING LIFE & LOVE BETTER." . With my 20 plus years of experience as a relationship counselor, my goal is to provide personal counseling for individuals and couples (married or partnered). My approach incorporates a combination of traditional, contemporary and holistic counseling techniques. You will find my office to be a comfortable living-room like setting conducive to privacy, safety and relaxation. Each session is tailored to meet the special needs of the client or clients. CONFIDENTIALITY is always in place except when permission is given by the client.
I enjoy "MAKING LIFE & LOVE BETTER." . With my 20 plus years of experience as a relationship counselor, my goal is to provide personal counseling for individuals and couples (married or partnered). My approach incorporates a combination of traditional, contemporary and holistic counseling techniques. You will find my office to be a comfortable living-room like setting conducive to privacy, safety and relaxation. Each session is tailored to meet the special needs of the client or clients. CONFIDENTIALITY is always in place except when permission is given by the client.
![Photo of Christine M Vara, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa63d548-beb3-4550-a116-2b853878cbab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine M Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23229
Are you caught in cycles that leave you exhausted? Do you want to have better relationships but find them splintering? Are you self-critical in your efforts to obtain perfection? Do you find yourself shutting down or shutting off? You don't have to suffer in silence. Nor do you have to leave any part of yourself behind - I work with the whole person. Our identities often intersect with our struggles and our strengths. I'll meet you where you're at, and help you get where you're going. Whether you are just starting or looking to maintain your recovery from eating disorders, trauma and/or OCD, together recovery is possible.
Are you caught in cycles that leave you exhausted? Do you want to have better relationships but find them splintering? Are you self-critical in your efforts to obtain perfection? Do you find yourself shutting down or shutting off? You don't have to suffer in silence. Nor do you have to leave any part of yourself behind - I work with the whole person. Our identities often intersect with our struggles and our strengths. I'll meet you where you're at, and help you get where you're going. Whether you are just starting or looking to maintain your recovery from eating disorders, trauma and/or OCD, together recovery is possible.
![Photo of Mackenzie Coulson, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9848f70d-1861-4adb-9792-74f794b28f20/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hey, my name is Mackenzie, but you can call me Max (I'm not much for formalities)! I'm glad you are here. I help women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma to improve their quality of life. I am passionate about supporting people in overcoming barriers to living the way you want to live. You may be looking for support in building confidence, boundary setting, you may be looking for support in processing past trauma in a safe space, or you may be looking to connect with your inner child. Maybe it is something entirely different. Either way, you are on the right track, therapy is an amazing tool at every life stage.
Hey, my name is Mackenzie, but you can call me Max (I'm not much for formalities)! I'm glad you are here. I help women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma to improve their quality of life. I am passionate about supporting people in overcoming barriers to living the way you want to live. You may be looking for support in building confidence, boundary setting, you may be looking for support in processing past trauma in a safe space, or you may be looking to connect with your inner child. Maybe it is something entirely different. Either way, you are on the right track, therapy is an amazing tool at every life stage.
![Photo of Synthia L Lawton - Alliance Family Counseling, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2201ee42-d8a6-4b12-9c2a-4992e51652bd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alliance Family Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Chesterfield, VA 23236
My professional experience includes the provision of clinical services in both residential (milieu) therapy and outpatient practice clinical specialties include Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality, Schizoaffective Disorder, PTSD, Attachment, Anger Management and Grief and loss, etc. I have expertise in trauma recovery, specifically healing from childhood physical, emotional and sexual abuse. I accept and work with patients of all age ranges and work with clients who are over the age of 65.
My professional experience includes the provision of clinical services in both residential (milieu) therapy and outpatient practice clinical specialties include Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality, Schizoaffective Disorder, PTSD, Attachment, Anger Management and Grief and loss, etc. I have expertise in trauma recovery, specifically healing from childhood physical, emotional and sexual abuse. I accept and work with patients of all age ranges and work with clients who are over the age of 65.
![Photo of Jessica Venglarcik, LICSW, LCSW, MSSA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3ba2a04-00f1-4fc8-a044-cc317cbbd23d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Venglarcik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MSSA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22302
Waitlist for new clients
You can reclaim happiness and peace in your life! I work with teens (11 and up) and adults. I have extensive experience in a number of areas including individuals with Autism, disabled individuals, faith based counseling, depression, anxiety, employment related issues, and general life stressors. The clients I work with are often feeling overwhelmed, and I help them to create space for healing. You are strong, and I'm here to help coach you back to a place of comfort and peace. I promise to provide non judgmental support and encouragement.
You can reclaim happiness and peace in your life! I work with teens (11 and up) and adults. I have extensive experience in a number of areas including individuals with Autism, disabled individuals, faith based counseling, depression, anxiety, employment related issues, and general life stressors. The clients I work with are often feeling overwhelmed, and I help them to create space for healing. You are strong, and I'm here to help coach you back to a place of comfort and peace. I promise to provide non judgmental support and encouragement.
![Photo of Brandy Engler - Silver Lake Psychology--Virginia location, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4867f341-cfbc-4cb0-b6fa-0c59c0cffd32/2/320x400.jpeg)
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
![Photo of Barbara Lavine, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ed673d2-5684-45e9-a2d1-503f4120f91d/1/320x400.png)
Barbara earned her BA from Michigan State University, her MA in Counseling from George Washington University in 1983, and an advanced certificate in Counseling from GWU in 2014. She has over 30 years of counseling experience. She worked as a school counselor for Fairfax County Public Schools until2016 and has since worked as a Licensed Professional Counselor. She has worked primarily with children and families, and is also seeing adults. She uses solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, client-centered therapy.
Barbara earned her BA from Michigan State University, her MA in Counseling from George Washington University in 1983, and an advanced certificate in Counseling from GWU in 2014. She has over 30 years of counseling experience. She worked as a school counselor for Fairfax County Public Schools until2016 and has since worked as a Licensed Professional Counselor. She has worked primarily with children and families, and is also seeing adults. She uses solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, client-centered therapy.
![Photo of Georgia Lynn Martin - Loudoun Counseling & Coaching, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6841b7d3-3642-4d96-87c7-86224f305374/3/320x400.jpeg)
Loudoun Counseling & Coaching, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Potomac Falls, VA 20165
I look forward to working with clients with a variety of diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, infertility, adoption, life changes and transitions, grief and loss, including divorce. Empathy, respect and compassion are all at the forefront of my work with client's, with an emphasis on client's strengths and goals. Therapeutic modalities include; solution focused, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, and strengths based. I would like to work with you to help you achieve your hopes and dreams of becoming the best you! For the quickest response, please respond to me via email. Daytime availability on Tuesdays, Wed. & Thursdays.
I look forward to working with clients with a variety of diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, infertility, adoption, life changes and transitions, grief and loss, including divorce. Empathy, respect and compassion are all at the forefront of my work with client's, with an emphasis on client's strengths and goals. Therapeutic modalities include; solution focused, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, and strengths based. I would like to work with you to help you achieve your hopes and dreams of becoming the best you! For the quickest response, please respond to me via email. Daytime availability on Tuesdays, Wed. & Thursdays.
![Photo of Narcissistic Abuse Therapist Ashley S Davis, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b008ac70-b11d-40fe-b10d-a3463730b5dc/3/320x400.jpeg)
Narcissistic Abuse Therapist Ashley S Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Allen, VA 23060
I work with adults seeking to process and heal from traumatic experiences, with a focus on survivors of abuse and neglect. I aim to create a space for people to grieve, identify what you value, and take small steps towards stability and wholeness. I also work w/ couples seeking to enhance connection and communication. If you find yourself feeling disconnected from your partner, unheard or attacked during conflict, fearful of letting your partner down, or seeking to address triggers from past trauma with your partner, these are common issues I help couples address.
I work with adults seeking to process and heal from traumatic experiences, with a focus on survivors of abuse and neglect. I aim to create a space for people to grieve, identify what you value, and take small steps towards stability and wholeness. I also work w/ couples seeking to enhance connection and communication. If you find yourself feeling disconnected from your partner, unheard or attacked during conflict, fearful of letting your partner down, or seeking to address triggers from past trauma with your partner, these are common issues I help couples address.
![Photo of Daniel L. Price, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f36ea8f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychotherapy helps people achieve what they want in their lives by mobilizing their energy in a positive way and problem solving the things that stand in their way. Emotional issues from the past can be worked through to happier healthier functioning. Improved mood and functioning without anxiety can be achieved.
Psychotherapy helps people achieve what they want in their lives by mobilizing their energy in a positive way and problem solving the things that stand in their way. Emotional issues from the past can be worked through to happier healthier functioning. Improved mood and functioning without anxiety can be achieved.
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![Photo of Sharlene Hamilton - Cardinal Family Counseling, PLLC, LPC, NCC, CCHMC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89d63e95-78f8-49fb-9986-db89b8aa83dd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cardinal Family Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCHMC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
Cardinal Family Counseling is a team of experienced Licensed Counselors and Residents in Counseling providing therapy to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We help clients address anxiety, depression, relationship/marital difficulties, grief & loss difficulties, parental separation/divorce, trauma/PTSD, social phobias, peer relationship and social skills difficulties, and behavioral Issues. We use a variety of techniques to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy techniques to guide clients through their difficulties.
Cardinal Family Counseling is a team of experienced Licensed Counselors and Residents in Counseling providing therapy to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We help clients address anxiety, depression, relationship/marital difficulties, grief & loss difficulties, parental separation/divorce, trauma/PTSD, social phobias, peer relationship and social skills difficulties, and behavioral Issues. We use a variety of techniques to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy techniques to guide clients through their difficulties.
![Photo of Mara Gray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d82dc60b-86e6-4909-8305-b6aaf8c9f7c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mara Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fredericksburg, VA 22401 (Online Only)
While I enjoy working with diverse client populations, I have found my skills lie especially in working with individuals dealing with life adjustments, relationship and codependency difficulties, anxiety and depression.
While I enjoy working with diverse client populations, I have found my skills lie especially in working with individuals dealing with life adjustments, relationship and codependency difficulties, anxiety and depression.
![Photo of Michael E. Deitz, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e9f804e-63a4-430f-b611-83ca841ca619/2/320x400.png)
Michael E. Deitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fredericksburg, VA 22405
While life events and transitions can be overwhelming and isolating, you never have to be alone. Through the therapeutic process, I will empathetically work with you to understand your goals and help guide you to wellness. I love working with ages spanning from late teens to older adults during life transitions. I feel as though we can all have a “harsh inner critic”; this critic is difficult to silence or challenge. Many times, we ask ourselves, “why did this happen” or “why do I feel this way”? When we ask ourselves “why”, we tend to reinforce shame. Think about it, “why” indicates there is just one answer.
While life events and transitions can be overwhelming and isolating, you never have to be alone. Through the therapeutic process, I will empathetically work with you to understand your goals and help guide you to wellness. I love working with ages spanning from late teens to older adults during life transitions. I feel as though we can all have a “harsh inner critic”; this critic is difficult to silence or challenge. Many times, we ask ourselves, “why did this happen” or “why do I feel this way”? When we ask ourselves “why”, we tend to reinforce shame. Think about it, “why” indicates there is just one answer.
![Photo of Melanie Gardner, PsyD, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bd2229c-03e2-401c-8a73-6b3ee945adc0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melanie Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hopewell, VA 23860
Nothing has been the same since that terrible event. In a moment, your life was split into two parts: before and after. It's already taken so much from you and affects everything you do. Physically, you're breaking down. Sleep is next to impossible, and you can't remember when you didn't have a splitting tension headache. You're always on edge, ready for the next threat to present itself. You never know how you're going to react from one moment to the next. And the more you fight for control, the less you have. You long for a life of peace, free from the constant despair. But you just don't know how to get it. It feels hopeless.
Nothing has been the same since that terrible event. In a moment, your life was split into two parts: before and after. It's already taken so much from you and affects everything you do. Physically, you're breaking down. Sleep is next to impossible, and you can't remember when you didn't have a splitting tension headache. You're always on edge, ready for the next threat to present itself. You never know how you're going to react from one moment to the next. And the more you fight for control, the less you have. You long for a life of peace, free from the constant despair. But you just don't know how to get it. It feels hopeless.
![Photo of Giana McKay, LMHP-R, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebcc06e7-4088-4c17-8822-571430de49ae/1/320x400.jpeg)
I’m Giana McKay, a resident in counseling with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. My passion is helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of supporting clients from diverse backgrounds with various needs, including working with all age groups facing behavioral issues, anxiety, and depression. These experiences have enriched my understanding and approach to mental health care. My goal is to create a client-centered therapeutic environment that fosters healing and growth.
I’m Giana McKay, a resident in counseling with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. My passion is helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of supporting clients from diverse backgrounds with various needs, including working with all age groups facing behavioral issues, anxiety, and depression. These experiences have enriched my understanding and approach to mental health care. My goal is to create a client-centered therapeutic environment that fosters healing and growth.
![Photo of Michael M Love, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50596e10-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting clients to start in May 2024! I believe that psychotherapy is a tool for transforming our effort into meaningful change in our lives. We can do this through seeking insight into understanding ourselves as well as making practical changes in our day-to-day habits. In addition to psychotherapy services, I provide psychological testing and assessment, as well as consultation to healthcare providers and others.
Accepting clients to start in May 2024! I believe that psychotherapy is a tool for transforming our effort into meaningful change in our lives. We can do this through seeking insight into understanding ourselves as well as making practical changes in our day-to-day habits. In addition to psychotherapy services, I provide psychological testing and assessment, as well as consultation to healthcare providers and others.
![Photo of Linda Barker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ba9ae7e-d1fa-4b49-b668-58f7916dfe9d/1/320x400.png)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) serving clients throughout Virginia. I have worked in multiple areas of behavioral health and health care in the Richmond area for over twenty-five years. I work with adult clients in individual therapy and couples therapy. I work with adult clients, individually and in couples therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) serving clients throughout Virginia. I have worked in multiple areas of behavioral health and health care in the Richmond area for over twenty-five years. I work with adult clients in individual therapy and couples therapy. I work with adult clients, individually and in couples therapy.
![Photo of Jamika Isaacs-Poole, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4836ac1-2097-4821-a977-78b138b6539c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jamika Isaacs-Poole
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport News, VA 23608 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Jamika, and I am a Licensed Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy. I graduated from Capella University with my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I love to work with children, couples, biological families, blended families, and individuals. I have experience working with clients who exhibit ADHD, adjustment issues, anxiety, behavioral concerns, depression, family conflict, grief, relationship issues, and trauma. Also, as an individual who served 10 years in the United States Army, I can understand the military lifestyle and the adjustment period that comes with transitioning into a civilian.
Hi, my name is Jamika, and I am a Licensed Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy. I graduated from Capella University with my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I love to work with children, couples, biological families, blended families, and individuals. I have experience working with clients who exhibit ADHD, adjustment issues, anxiety, behavioral concerns, depression, family conflict, grief, relationship issues, and trauma. Also, as an individual who served 10 years in the United States Army, I can understand the military lifestyle and the adjustment period that comes with transitioning into a civilian.
![Photo of Tonya Gardner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2288fab7-042c-4e9b-bc35-2a5f8e30aa56/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tonya Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23451 (Online Only)
Are you dealing with feelings of anxiety, depression, anger and navigating a difficult time in your life? I would love the opportunity to help you. It is no coincidence that you are here and considering your next steps with me. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of mental health experience. I use an integrated approach to meet your treatment needs by building a healthy therapeutic relationship and teaching you skills and interventions that have proven to be successful. Start the process of reclaiming your life today.
Are you dealing with feelings of anxiety, depression, anger and navigating a difficult time in your life? I would love the opportunity to help you. It is no coincidence that you are here and considering your next steps with me. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of mental health experience. I use an integrated approach to meet your treatment needs by building a healthy therapeutic relationship and teaching you skills and interventions that have proven to be successful. Start the process of reclaiming your life today.
See more therapy options for Virginia
How does your Therapist compare?
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Virginia who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
73% | Self Esteem |
71% | Relationship Issues |
70% | Coping Skills |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
74% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
70% | Anthem | Elevance |
69% | Aetna |
How Therapists in Virginia see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
15% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Virginia?
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.