Therapists in Howard County, MD
![Photo of Alexcia R. Wattie, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/887c1d14-4a65-4ada-bede-387dde9be667/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexcia R. Wattie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044 (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is to provide therapy and support to help clients effectively address personal challenges. There is no single approach that is right for every individual and I'm highly committed to offer a personalized approach tailored to each client. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy to help ignite a change that you can see and feel.
My therapeutic approach is to provide therapy and support to help clients effectively address personal challenges. There is no single approach that is right for every individual and I'm highly committed to offer a personalized approach tailored to each client. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy to help ignite a change that you can see and feel.
![Photo of Dr. Ryan Schluter, PsyD, PSYPACT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5f76aa4-265c-4ff3-8b41-f61851bb0eb6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Schluter provides specialized and evidence based Cognitive Behavioral Therapies to clients aged 8 years and above in person and virtually. Using a variety of therapies, I work alongside each client to identify and pursue personalized goals to enhance their life, functioning, and well-being. I specialize in treating anxiety, OCD, depression, trichotillomania, excoriation (skin picking), panic, social anxiety, phobias, trauma, and other presenting issues. My aim is to turn you into your own therapist. Please feel free to call or email me today to schedule a phone consultation.
Dr. Schluter provides specialized and evidence based Cognitive Behavioral Therapies to clients aged 8 years and above in person and virtually. Using a variety of therapies, I work alongside each client to identify and pursue personalized goals to enhance their life, functioning, and well-being. I specialize in treating anxiety, OCD, depression, trichotillomania, excoriation (skin picking), panic, social anxiety, phobias, trauma, and other presenting issues. My aim is to turn you into your own therapist. Please feel free to call or email me today to schedule a phone consultation.
![Photo of Esther Linette Lowery, MA, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6514fd54-1d28-46eb-a562-a287ea549c79/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client would be those male/female between the ages of 21-75 yo, struggling with anxiety, depression and relational issues that negatively impact daily functioning. I specialize in facilitating couples therapy as well as individuals who just want to develop healthier coping skills to manage life cycle changes and stressors
My ideal client would be those male/female between the ages of 21-75 yo, struggling with anxiety, depression and relational issues that negatively impact daily functioning. I specialize in facilitating couples therapy as well as individuals who just want to develop healthier coping skills to manage life cycle changes and stressors
![Photo of Lisa M Loury-Lomas, PhD, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4727c231-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa M Loury-Lomas
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042
I provide a relaxing, comfortable atmosphere where people can grow and learn more about themselves. Those who are in crisis or simply need to talk about life changes can benefit. I'm known for providing objective feedback and insight. The tools I provide can be used for personal or professional growth and development. Whether I'm with an individual, a family, conducting a seminar or professional coaching; I never judge, and my clients are always respected. Whether in person or on the phone, I am a good asset, or tool for anyone who is ready to make a change.
I provide a relaxing, comfortable atmosphere where people can grow and learn more about themselves. Those who are in crisis or simply need to talk about life changes can benefit. I'm known for providing objective feedback and insight. The tools I provide can be used for personal or professional growth and development. Whether I'm with an individual, a family, conducting a seminar or professional coaching; I never judge, and my clients are always respected. Whether in person or on the phone, I am a good asset, or tool for anyone who is ready to make a change.
![Photo of Rebecca Cooney, LCSW-C, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d487857a-315d-493b-a0c2-fcdd09297115/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Cooney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, RYT-200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21042 (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Clients MD & VA! You sense that a painful experience from your past is affecting your present life. You recognize that you're caught in a cycle, but finding a way out seems impossible. Typically, you're the kind of person who can navigate through any challenge, so it's incredibly frustrating that this time feels different. I specialize in working with adult & adolescents in the treatment of depression, anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, family conflict, self-esteem, trauma, abuse, grief/loss and emotion dysregulation.
Now Accepting New Clients MD & VA! You sense that a painful experience from your past is affecting your present life. You recognize that you're caught in a cycle, but finding a way out seems impossible. Typically, you're the kind of person who can navigate through any challenge, so it's incredibly frustrating that this time feels different. I specialize in working with adult & adolescents in the treatment of depression, anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, family conflict, self-esteem, trauma, abuse, grief/loss and emotion dysregulation.
![Photo of Deitra Fant, MA, NCC, LCPC-S](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dba8e37b-d61e-4b76-b1c6-0762ba8a07bf/1/320x400.png)
Deitra Fant
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042
I am a highly experienced and dedicated Board-Certified Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I've held various roles in employment, housing, ACT services, homeless services, case management, and leadership, showcasing my diverse skill set and commitment to helping others.
I am a highly experienced and dedicated Board-Certified Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I've held various roles in employment, housing, ACT services, homeless services, case management, and leadership, showcasing my diverse skill set and commitment to helping others.
![Photo of Erin Baehr, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ad82d83-3e22-4322-8003-c73882ed3763/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Baehr, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist, who is board certified in Sleep Medicine and Behavioral Sleep Medicine. She is the founder and clinical director of Insight Sleep Specialists, which provides Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) to a diverse population of clients. She earned a Ph.D. from Northwestern University and an undergraduate degree from Cornell University.
Erin Baehr, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist, who is board certified in Sleep Medicine and Behavioral Sleep Medicine. She is the founder and clinical director of Insight Sleep Specialists, which provides Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) to a diverse population of clients. She earned a Ph.D. from Northwestern University and an undergraduate degree from Cornell University.
![Photo of Terrie W Tyrie, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec761deb-0ae1-47ca-9dec-79c64ec0d84a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Terrie W Tyrie
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21042
Now accepting new clients for in-person or virtual appointments. Are you feeling alone with problems you don't feel anyone can understand? I have experience in helping clients with life transitions such as, new parents, graduating teens, divorce or planning retirement. In working with individuals, couples and families, I have help my clients find support and healing.
Now accepting new clients for in-person or virtual appointments. Are you feeling alone with problems you don't feel anyone can understand? I have experience in helping clients with life transitions such as, new parents, graduating teens, divorce or planning retirement. In working with individuals, couples and families, I have help my clients find support and healing.
![Photo of Jill Pieri - Jill Pieri, LCSW-C, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79a83f60-b151-4323-b8f9-046088456208/4/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Pieri, LCSW-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Not accepting new clients
Hi there, I'm Jill. If while reading this you think we would be a good fit, please reach out. You may want to get in touch if you are struggling to cope with this hard, confusing and overwhelming life. Maybe you are feeling that in your personal life and/or at a global level. Are the seemingly little everyday things feeling impossible? Let’s talk about ways to manage one piece at a time. Now more than ever, we can work together to identify what is within our control. I work with adult clients who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, and general overwhelm.
Hi there, I'm Jill. If while reading this you think we would be a good fit, please reach out. You may want to get in touch if you are struggling to cope with this hard, confusing and overwhelming life. Maybe you are feeling that in your personal life and/or at a global level. Are the seemingly little everyday things feeling impossible? Let’s talk about ways to manage one piece at a time. Now more than ever, we can work together to identify what is within our control. I work with adult clients who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, and general overwhelm.
![Photo of Elise Smithmyer, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81b9e393-2790-434c-bf64-8278c01430cd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elise Smithmyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21046
Not accepting new clients
Are you struggling with feelings of sadness or worry? Perhaps you are seeking clarity about your identity, adjusting to a transition, or wish to change behaviors that are not serving you. Sometimes it may feel like you can't improve things on your own. It shows strength and resilience to reach out for help needed. Through personal empowerment we will address the struggles you experience and find sustainable ways for you to achieve a happy and healthy life. Our work together will help you see that the most influential assets lie in your own personal strengths and resilience.
Are you struggling with feelings of sadness or worry? Perhaps you are seeking clarity about your identity, adjusting to a transition, or wish to change behaviors that are not serving you. Sometimes it may feel like you can't improve things on your own. It shows strength and resilience to reach out for help needed. Through personal empowerment we will address the struggles you experience and find sustainable ways for you to achieve a happy and healthy life. Our work together will help you see that the most influential assets lie in your own personal strengths and resilience.
![Photo of Qi Shi, PhD, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df030451-f5a8-47c7-bca4-9833571bfffa/3/320x400.jpeg)
Qi Shi
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Becoming your best self, managing natural life transitions, and staying on top of daily stressors takes work. I seek to create a safe, trusting environment where you feel free to share honestly and receive genuine feedback. We will explore patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors in order to establish improved ways of being and relating to others. Through our work together, you will achieve a better understanding of yourself, helping you to alleviate distress and develop more satisfying relationships.
Becoming your best self, managing natural life transitions, and staying on top of daily stressors takes work. I seek to create a safe, trusting environment where you feel free to share honestly and receive genuine feedback. We will explore patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors in order to establish improved ways of being and relating to others. Through our work together, you will achieve a better understanding of yourself, helping you to alleviate distress and develop more satisfying relationships.
15 Second Videos
Candice Richardson Dickens
Lina Faryal Kotsoeva
Katherine Brown
Sheela Reddy
Michele D Santos-Launay
Life Revisions Counseling, LLC
Brett A. Swords
Sarah A Murphy
Sandra Anderson
Heather Bond
Angela Alborn
Jaimie Fowler
Matt Mazick
Dorcas Austin
Carrie C Mead
Si Meng
Emily Callaghan
Thomas K. Swisher, J.D., Ph.D.
Summer Bryant
Danielle Pientka
Gabrielle “Ms. Gabby” Barrington
Rosalind Ceasar
Danny Miller
Jennifer Shepard Payne
Megan Williams
Lauren Berdeguez
Becky Fischbein
Gillian McCusker
Jake Ferentz
Rod Wright
Carilyn Rego
Tracy Pryce
Shawn Schroeder
Jesse Ludwig
ML Ministries
Nina Arroyo
Michael Fleg
Rosie Young
Michael P. Malone
The Green Garden
Mary D Hill
Berni J. Antelman
MPB Group, Inc-An Outpatient Mental Health Clinic
Lisa Maria Maslar
Therapy for Thinkers
Kelly Streit
Halcyon Clinical Services, LLC
Weight and Lifestyle Transformation
Daniel Camacho
Jasmine Templeton
![Photo of Patricia Clifford, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53c06f9f-75c4-4e79-9790-fd8b44366eb8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Clifford
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbine, MD 21797
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am passionate about helping teens and adults find and maintain balance in their lives. My practice is about enabling individuals to recognize and address the obstacles that are keeping them from finding that balance. I work with adolescents and adults. I am especially interested in helping adolescent girls develop the skills and confidence to face the ever increasing pressure in their "girl" world (social media, relational aggression, body image, etc.), in a positive way. Therapy dog available for those clients that wish to use as part of therapy.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am passionate about helping teens and adults find and maintain balance in their lives. My practice is about enabling individuals to recognize and address the obstacles that are keeping them from finding that balance. I work with adolescents and adults. I am especially interested in helping adolescent girls develop the skills and confidence to face the ever increasing pressure in their "girl" world (social media, relational aggression, body image, etc.), in a positive way. Therapy dog available for those clients that wish to use as part of therapy.
![Photo of Gardner McCullough, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9525124-81e2-4757-b8b7-be381f1cb389/3/320x400.jpeg)
Gardner McCullough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Accepting new patients! Take a step towards healing with a compassionate LCSW-C specializing in anxiety, trauma, and depression. Drawing from over a decade of experience, I understand the unique challenges you may face. I tailor an approach to support you the way that puts your needs first and foremost with a focus on helping you reach your goal. I integrate cognitive-behavioral models, including EMDR and CBT, with a patient-centered focus. My commitment is to guide you through challenges, fostering growth and resilience. Discover personalized therapy that empowers—where your unique healing journey takes center stage.
Accepting new patients! Take a step towards healing with a compassionate LCSW-C specializing in anxiety, trauma, and depression. Drawing from over a decade of experience, I understand the unique challenges you may face. I tailor an approach to support you the way that puts your needs first and foremost with a focus on helping you reach your goal. I integrate cognitive-behavioral models, including EMDR and CBT, with a patient-centered focus. My commitment is to guide you through challenges, fostering growth and resilience. Discover personalized therapy that empowers—where your unique healing journey takes center stage.
![Photo of Jazmyn Wilson, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/779b1756-0996-4394-b618-d054ed650f25/5/320x400.jpeg)
Jazmyn Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043 (Online Only)
Life often presents us with challenges that can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. If you're grappling with these emotions, know that you're not alone, and there is hope for a brighter future. I'm here to assist you on your journey towards a happier, more fulfilling life. I understand that each individual is unique, and I tailor my approach to suit your specific needs. You're not just another case on my caseload; you're an individual with distinct experiences and challenges. With me, you can expect a compassionate and client-centered approach.
Life often presents us with challenges that can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. If you're grappling with these emotions, know that you're not alone, and there is hope for a brighter future. I'm here to assist you on your journey towards a happier, more fulfilling life. I understand that each individual is unique, and I tailor my approach to suit your specific needs. You're not just another case on my caseload; you're an individual with distinct experiences and challenges. With me, you can expect a compassionate and client-centered approach.
![Photo of Michael Spaulding, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c523e3d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Spaulding
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21046
My primary specialty is helping people struggling with gambling related issues. With the rapid expansion of the gambling industry and accessibility, more and more find it hard to control this behavior. Generally, I use a combination of traditional cognitive behavioral techniques with strategies to improve motivation, set goals, and increase acknowledgement and acceptance that the treatment goals are attainable. Change is possible. It takes work, and I would be honored to help you in this journey.
My primary specialty is helping people struggling with gambling related issues. With the rapid expansion of the gambling industry and accessibility, more and more find it hard to control this behavior. Generally, I use a combination of traditional cognitive behavioral techniques with strategies to improve motivation, set goals, and increase acknowledgement and acceptance that the treatment goals are attainable. Change is possible. It takes work, and I would be honored to help you in this journey.
![Photo of Sundus Nada, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f210a1e9-1e16-440f-a7e9-e5fdca0aece5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sundus Nada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043 (Online Only)
Are you feeling down lately? Are you looking to make a change in your life but don’t have the motivation to? I am here to meet you where you are and work with you to identify what goals and changes you want to make in your life.
Are you feeling down lately? Are you looking to make a change in your life but don’t have the motivation to? I am here to meet you where you are and work with you to identify what goals and changes you want to make in your life.
![Photo of Kathleen Van Meter, LCSW-C, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44e7c620-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Van Meter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044
I am currently licensed at the clinical level (LCSW-C) to practice social work in Maryland. I utilize a direct, yet warm and affirming approach in therapy. Each client is unique and I work hard to assist clients in achieving his or her treatment goals through Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution- Focused Therapy. Much of my work focuses on Mindfulness and supportive therapies.
I am currently licensed at the clinical level (LCSW-C) to practice social work in Maryland. I utilize a direct, yet warm and affirming approach in therapy. Each client is unique and I work hard to assist clients in achieving his or her treatment goals through Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution- Focused Therapy. Much of my work focuses on Mindfulness and supportive therapies.
![Photo of Irene Christin, LCPC, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0eb9a20c-d531-465f-a981-065bb19cb07d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Irene Christin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
I specialize in working mostly with children and families. Also, I see couples and individual adults. I offer help with managing high level of stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. In my practice, I use an integrative approach that includes several evidence-based techniques. The foundation of my method is empathic understanding and unconditional positive regard. I am truly convinced that every person has the potential to grow and achieve positive life change.
I specialize in working mostly with children and families. Also, I see couples and individual adults. I offer help with managing high level of stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. In my practice, I use an integrative approach that includes several evidence-based techniques. The foundation of my method is empathic understanding and unconditional positive regard. I am truly convinced that every person has the potential to grow and achieve positive life change.
![Photo of Elysia Oudemans-Tilley, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d689600-c7a9-4598-b456-ea2c8261f318/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elysia Oudemans-Tilley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21042 (Online Only)
These days many people are realizing how important our mental and emotional health is. Maybe your anxiety has been increasing, or you notice your mood has been changing. Perhaps you’re noticing you are feeling more irritable or preoccupied. Or you’re feeling more drained and less interested in the things you used to enjoy. Or maybe, like many, you’re not quite sure what you’re feeling.
These days many people are realizing how important our mental and emotional health is. Maybe your anxiety has been increasing, or you notice your mood has been changing. Perhaps you’re noticing you are feeling more irritable or preoccupied. Or you’re feeling more drained and less interested in the things you used to enjoy. Or maybe, like many, you’re not quite sure what you’re feeling.
![Photo of Candice Richardson Dickens, LCPC-S, LCADC, NCC, MA, CCTP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8c6ba7f-be61-4421-836a-2c56b6abb0aa/1/320x400.png)
Candice Richardson Dickens
Counselor, LCPC-S, LCADC, NCC, MA, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Are you tired of your past traumas getting in the way of experiencing joy, long lasting intimacy, stability and happiness? If so, I want you to know that healing is possible. and you deserve to have the life that you want. I am a trauma specialist, and I am trained in helping clients heal from past abuse, hurt, and acts of violence. Restoration, liberation from trauma, and peace are the goals for my ideal client.
Are you tired of your past traumas getting in the way of experiencing joy, long lasting intimacy, stability and happiness? If so, I want you to know that healing is possible. and you deserve to have the life that you want. I am a trauma specialist, and I am trained in helping clients heal from past abuse, hurt, and acts of violence. Restoration, liberation from trauma, and peace are the goals for my ideal client.
See more therapy options for Howard County
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Howard County, MD
1,000+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Howard County, MD who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
74% | Self Esteem |
73% | Relationship Issues |
69% | Coping Skills |
69% | Stress |
64% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
74% | CareFirst |
73% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Howard County, MD see their clients
53% | In Person and Online | |
47% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
16% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Howard County?
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.