Therapists in Columbia, MO
![Photo of Merri Copeland-Cook, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af7296ba-7f1f-4fc3-8f63-879100823994/2/320x400.jpeg)
Merri Copeland-Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201 (Online Only)
Ready for a change? Trust me, I get it... Life is not always easy and never seems to go the way you planned. Not to mention, taking care of your mental health can be difficult for so many reasons. Maybe you have been stuck for a long time and are afraid to ask for help. Maybe you have a full plate dealing with all of life's responsibilities, with not enough time in the day. Or maybe you just don’t know where to start. Take comfort in knowing that you are not alone! Let’s talk about it and figure this thing out together.
Ready for a change? Trust me, I get it... Life is not always easy and never seems to go the way you planned. Not to mention, taking care of your mental health can be difficult for so many reasons. Maybe you have been stuck for a long time and are afraid to ask for help. Maybe you have a full plate dealing with all of life's responsibilities, with not enough time in the day. Or maybe you just don’t know where to start. Take comfort in knowing that you are not alone! Let’s talk about it and figure this thing out together.
![Photo of Laurel C Harlan - Human Dynamics, Inc., MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3da9c6b0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Founded in 1984, Human Dynamics, Inc. is an association of independent practioners offering psychological services to individuals, couples, families, and children. Each individual therapist brings a unique approach to his/her clients and has a diverse professional background.
Founded in 1984, Human Dynamics, Inc. is an association of independent practioners offering psychological services to individuals, couples, families, and children. Each individual therapist brings a unique approach to his/her clients and has a diverse professional background.
![Photo of Patricia Altenburg, PhD, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71a43a4a-6f99-4eda-bfa4-07dd2c3a53ef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Altenburg
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65203 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My practice at Reclaim is dedicated to women suffering the damaging impact of relational abuse, betrayal trauma, or sexual coercion. This trauma can occur as a result of a partners' addiction to pornography, substances, or other compulsive behaviors. Covert emotional abuse is a 'hidden epidemic' today that often goes unnoticed or disregarded by family, friends, church, and counselors. We also work with women who have PTSD due to family-of-origin/attachment issues or other traumatic life events. We offer safe connection and a pathway to healing.
My practice at Reclaim is dedicated to women suffering the damaging impact of relational abuse, betrayal trauma, or sexual coercion. This trauma can occur as a result of a partners' addiction to pornography, substances, or other compulsive behaviors. Covert emotional abuse is a 'hidden epidemic' today that often goes unnoticed or disregarded by family, friends, church, and counselors. We also work with women who have PTSD due to family-of-origin/attachment issues or other traumatic life events. We offer safe connection and a pathway to healing.
![Photo of Sarah Covert, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/437be2b3-651c-47a7-af9f-1475ead028c4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Covert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203
Life is a complex journey, filled with its fair share of struggles, obstacles, transitions, and adjustments. These challenges can originate from early experiences in childhood or adolescence, or they may arise from more recent events. Each of these experiences contributes to our current state of being, influencing how we navigate the world and interact with others. My role as a therapist is to help you explore and understand these influences, facilitating a deeper sense of self-awareness and personal transformation.
Life is a complex journey, filled with its fair share of struggles, obstacles, transitions, and adjustments. These challenges can originate from early experiences in childhood or adolescence, or they may arise from more recent events. Each of these experiences contributes to our current state of being, influencing how we navigate the world and interact with others. My role as a therapist is to help you explore and understand these influences, facilitating a deeper sense of self-awareness and personal transformation.
![Photo of Tim Rudder, LCSW, MGCP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/790ec023-dbc7-46d9-8398-fa999f6ec91d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tim Rudder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MGCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203
If you feel you have lost steam dealing with anxiety or depression, or if you are an athlete losing your drive due to the demands of your sport, I'd like to talk with you about how we can overcome your struggles. As a therapist, I can help you understand important experiences in your life while coping with difficulties, such as stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and substance use disorders. As a Mental Game Coaching Professional, I can help you uncover mindsets that lead to a loss in confidence, composure, focus and enjoyment, so that you thrive and have fun again.
If you feel you have lost steam dealing with anxiety or depression, or if you are an athlete losing your drive due to the demands of your sport, I'd like to talk with you about how we can overcome your struggles. As a therapist, I can help you understand important experiences in your life while coping with difficulties, such as stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and substance use disorders. As a Mental Game Coaching Professional, I can help you uncover mindsets that lead to a loss in confidence, composure, focus and enjoyment, so that you thrive and have fun again.
![Photo of Kim Oliver, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1764ee33-80bc-4fa5-a860-540dc1f01983/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have learned that no one is immune to mental health stress, trauma, OR substance abuse. Most really can find recovery and wellness. In 2000, I began my career providing counseling services in a treatment center and have continued to specialize in coping methods vs. "using." Relationships are sacred. I work with all arrangements of families (CNM & polyamory). Expert family/couples counseling requires expert training. The Gottman Method is taught in three levels and I completed all three in 2017. My intensive couples approach is successful in improving communication and provides many tools and results in a reasonable time frame.
I have learned that no one is immune to mental health stress, trauma, OR substance abuse. Most really can find recovery and wellness. In 2000, I began my career providing counseling services in a treatment center and have continued to specialize in coping methods vs. "using." Relationships are sacred. I work with all arrangements of families (CNM & polyamory). Expert family/couples counseling requires expert training. The Gottman Method is taught in three levels and I completed all three in 2017. My intensive couples approach is successful in improving communication and provides many tools and results in a reasonable time frame.
![Photo of Joseph D Cusumano, PhD, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe95e952-4a70-47d7-b59d-2ae969fb92e0/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals and couples in a collaborative manner. I am very engaging during the sessions, and seek those who are genuinely interested in learning new ways to think and see the world.
I work with individuals and couples in a collaborative manner. I am very engaging during the sessions, and seek those who are genuinely interested in learning new ways to think and see the world.
![Photo of Kristal Allen, PLPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ac61d90-94ed-48b5-ba31-9ad01af1b7cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristal is a telehealth therapist and has a variety of professional experience that she brings with her to Counseling Associates. She has worked in community settings working with pregnant women as well as has experience as a community support specialist working with adolescents and children. Kristal has completed her certification as a Tobacco Treatment Specialist with the Mayo Clinic Nicotine Dependence Center, and the facilitator certification with the American Lung Association Freedom From Smoking Program. Kristal has experience leading weekly nicotine dependence groups and smoking cessation education.
Kristal is a telehealth therapist and has a variety of professional experience that she brings with her to Counseling Associates. She has worked in community settings working with pregnant women as well as has experience as a community support specialist working with adolescents and children. Kristal has completed her certification as a Tobacco Treatment Specialist with the Mayo Clinic Nicotine Dependence Center, and the facilitator certification with the American Lung Association Freedom From Smoking Program. Kristal has experience leading weekly nicotine dependence groups and smoking cessation education.
![Photo of Megan Colvin - Megan Colvin LPC-S Psychotherapy , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4769ba83-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Colvin LPC-S Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65203
Using the transformational model Internal Family Systems (IFS) Megan assists individuals to access their internal healing capacity. Substantive change and healing of deep wounds is possible within this model. Additionally, Megan utilizes EMDR to assist in metabolizing of traumatic events. Megan’s theraputic approach is informed by a blend of the latest in trauma and neurobiological research as well as the wisdom of holistic approaches to healing.
Using the transformational model Internal Family Systems (IFS) Megan assists individuals to access their internal healing capacity. Substantive change and healing of deep wounds is possible within this model. Additionally, Megan utilizes EMDR to assist in metabolizing of traumatic events. Megan’s theraputic approach is informed by a blend of the latest in trauma and neurobiological research as well as the wisdom of holistic approaches to healing.
![Photo of Vince Spears, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61068400-6204-491c-936f-53e86e1b887a/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is an individual who is dealing with low self-esteem, past trauma affecting current goals, coping skills, setting boundaries, family conflict, parental issues, anger management, etc. Some struggle with managing stress and expressing their feelings to others because of fear of judgment. They grew up in a household that strived for perfectionism, felt like a failure, and felt like they let people down. They have difficulty expressing their feelings to others because they fear judgment.
My ideal client is an individual who is dealing with low self-esteem, past trauma affecting current goals, coping skills, setting boundaries, family conflict, parental issues, anger management, etc. Some struggle with managing stress and expressing their feelings to others because of fear of judgment. They grew up in a household that strived for perfectionism, felt like a failure, and felt like they let people down. They have difficulty expressing their feelings to others because they fear judgment.
![Photo of Gregory Carbins - Empowerment Living, BA, ICADC, CTTS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/872e6ee6-74e3-4976-80e1-606c97dfdb3c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Empowerment Living
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BA, ICADC, CTTS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
Are you feeling frustrated as the result of alcohol, drug, or tobacco use issues? Are you experiencing feelings of helplessness and worry? Are you carrying the weight of blame and guilt? Would you like to untether yourself from the chaos of addiction and begin on a path of sobriety? I can help you navigate through this emotional process. During my 20+ years of experience in an Addiction Treatment setting, I have helped many individuals center around hope and courage to obtain a more stable lifestyle. Recovery IS possible for you! You do NOT have to hit "rock bottom". Take the first step toward your personal freedom from addiction
Are you feeling frustrated as the result of alcohol, drug, or tobacco use issues? Are you experiencing feelings of helplessness and worry? Are you carrying the weight of blame and guilt? Would you like to untether yourself from the chaos of addiction and begin on a path of sobriety? I can help you navigate through this emotional process. During my 20+ years of experience in an Addiction Treatment setting, I have helped many individuals center around hope and courage to obtain a more stable lifestyle. Recovery IS possible for you! You do NOT have to hit "rock bottom". Take the first step toward your personal freedom from addiction
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![Photo of Jessie Back, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/718e1e34-9438-40af-82fe-98dbfeda31a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have a true passion for working with older adults and caregivers. I have worked with this population both in residential and community settings. I also have experience working in substance abuse and with individuals living with chronic illness. I enjoy not only individual work, but also working with couples and families to initiate and maintain change within the family system. Some issues I commonly work with include: depression, grief and loss, spirituality, life review, caregiver stress, interpersonal relationship problems, and anxiety.
I have a true passion for working with older adults and caregivers. I have worked with this population both in residential and community settings. I also have experience working in substance abuse and with individuals living with chronic illness. I enjoy not only individual work, but also working with couples and families to initiate and maintain change within the family system. Some issues I commonly work with include: depression, grief and loss, spirituality, life review, caregiver stress, interpersonal relationship problems, and anxiety.
![Photo of Brian Bowles, LPC, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/474ba989-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brian Bowles
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201 (Online Only)
If you are caught in a rut or unsure how to get through a crisis in your life, working with me can be a spur to your personal growth. If your relationships are not where you want them to be, I can help you and your partner create the connection, understanding, and respect you want. If you've tried unsuccessfully to change a behavior, I can make a difference as someone with experience treating addictions and other compulsive behaviors. As a counselor, I can help you see what's getting in your way and learn what you can do to make the changes you want.
If you are caught in a rut or unsure how to get through a crisis in your life, working with me can be a spur to your personal growth. If your relationships are not where you want them to be, I can help you and your partner create the connection, understanding, and respect you want. If you've tried unsuccessfully to change a behavior, I can make a difference as someone with experience treating addictions and other compulsive behaviors. As a counselor, I can help you see what's getting in your way and learn what you can do to make the changes you want.
![Photo of Katy Aull, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/506b3571-488b-46ae-9d46-d475d39f9a01/2/320x400.jpeg)
I help people pleasers - exhausted by the endless pursuit of perfection - find their version of good enough. I am the right counselor for you if you are doing everything you can to achieve, follow the rules, and do well...yet you do not feel good enough, seen, or valued. Are you ready to stop sacrificing your needs, thoughts, and feelings for the comfort of others?
I help people pleasers - exhausted by the endless pursuit of perfection - find their version of good enough. I am the right counselor for you if you are doing everything you can to achieve, follow the rules, and do well...yet you do not feel good enough, seen, or valued. Are you ready to stop sacrificing your needs, thoughts, and feelings for the comfort of others?
![Photo of Laura McMurry Msw Lcsw, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f639e73-24f5-49c5-8a34-ef896967ccd6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laura McMurry Msw Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65202
Waitlist for new clients
Trauma recovery just got easier thanks to the new therapy Deep Brain Reorienting. Our bodies respond to shocking stimuli in under 1 second and the neuroscience behind these responses is now being applied to psychotherapy. There are ways to "unwind" from the residual shock symptoms that can be held beneath our conscious awareness. DBR is an alternative to EMDR and standard talk therapies, as it focuses on bodily responses and sensations.
Trauma recovery just got easier thanks to the new therapy Deep Brain Reorienting. Our bodies respond to shocking stimuli in under 1 second and the neuroscience behind these responses is now being applied to psychotherapy. There are ways to "unwind" from the residual shock symptoms that can be held beneath our conscious awareness. DBR is an alternative to EMDR and standard talk therapies, as it focuses on bodily responses and sensations.
![Photo of Suzan Franck, MEd, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4676db8c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Suzan Franck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
Jungian analytic work understands that life is unpredictable. Everyone struggles at some point in life. Sometimes the accompanying suffering tears at the very fabric of our understanding of ourselves and how we fit in the world. Life no longer makes sense. Life is not the way you thought it would be or should be. Unbidden desires, anxieties or depression come in to interfere with your ability to live the life you want. Others in your life behave in ways that disrupt your peace of mind and ability to live a meaningful life. Issues you thought you had dealt with long ago resurface in the present.
Jungian analytic work understands that life is unpredictable. Everyone struggles at some point in life. Sometimes the accompanying suffering tears at the very fabric of our understanding of ourselves and how we fit in the world. Life no longer makes sense. Life is not the way you thought it would be or should be. Unbidden desires, anxieties or depression come in to interfere with your ability to live the life you want. Others in your life behave in ways that disrupt your peace of mind and ability to live a meaningful life. Issues you thought you had dealt with long ago resurface in the present.
![Photo of Steven C Burbee, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d472a8b-df8d-4485-9cf6-c05343ab04b7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Steven C Burbee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65202
If you are 13 or older, an individual, couple, or family, that feels wounded, lost, confused, depressed, anxious, or just uncertain about where your life is heading and how you might be able to move toward better. If you want to understand yourself better, improve your relationships with others, have a sense of purpose that guides your choices and allows you to become who you hope you can be. If you want to laugh more, be joyful, and find more peace and grace for your life. Then let me help you find the path that leads to "Better". It’s not easy or instantaneous, but working together, we can bring about some amazing results.
If you are 13 or older, an individual, couple, or family, that feels wounded, lost, confused, depressed, anxious, or just uncertain about where your life is heading and how you might be able to move toward better. If you want to understand yourself better, improve your relationships with others, have a sense of purpose that guides your choices and allows you to become who you hope you can be. If you want to laugh more, be joyful, and find more peace and grace for your life. Then let me help you find the path that leads to "Better". It’s not easy or instantaneous, but working together, we can bring about some amazing results.
![Photo of Joshua C Hulen, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2672849-1ea9-40a2-b7b7-4a70b38b9b17/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joshua C Hulen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203 (Online Only)
I offer individual counseling, mindfulness training, EMDR, and life coaching through video chatting. Common focus areas include: personal growth and development, career issues, lifestyle issues, assertive communication, self-esteem, ADHD, anger management, persistent mental health problems, addictions, trauma, and disability. I enjoy positive psychology and prefer to focus on solutions, strengths, and assets. I feel it is important to view each person from their unique cultural experience with a nonjudgmental stance. I believe in the biopsychosocial model and understand health and functioning as being systemic in nature.
I offer individual counseling, mindfulness training, EMDR, and life coaching through video chatting. Common focus areas include: personal growth and development, career issues, lifestyle issues, assertive communication, self-esteem, ADHD, anger management, persistent mental health problems, addictions, trauma, and disability. I enjoy positive psychology and prefer to focus on solutions, strengths, and assets. I feel it is important to view each person from their unique cultural experience with a nonjudgmental stance. I believe in the biopsychosocial model and understand health and functioning as being systemic in nature.
![Photo of Phyllis J Rowe - Golden Oasis Care, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/384524e1-febd-44b2-963d-663dbf5e80e4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Let's Do This Together! My name is Phyllis Rowe. I am a genuine, empathetic, and a non-judgmental provider. I received my master degree from University of Missouri-Columbia. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years experience. I serve males and females, including children 6 years and older, and adults of all ages. I provides Virtual Telehealth Therapy.
Let's Do This Together! My name is Phyllis Rowe. I am a genuine, empathetic, and a non-judgmental provider. I received my master degree from University of Missouri-Columbia. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years experience. I serve males and females, including children 6 years and older, and adults of all ages. I provides Virtual Telehealth Therapy.
![Photo of James H. Straub - Counseling and Psychological Services, LLC, EdD, LPHSP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c0824fe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling and Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, EdD, LPHSP
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203
Treatment specialization includes:
* Depression
* Anxiety
* Panic and phobias
* Relationship issues
* Couples
* Parenting and family Issues
* Health
* Pain
* Eating and body image
* Grief and loss
* GLBT
* Work and career
* Stress management
* Family of origin issues
* Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
* Trauma and abuse
* Sexual identity issues
* Spiritual issues
* Stage of life issues
Treatment specialization includes:
* Depression
* Anxiety
* Panic and phobias
* Relationship issues
* Couples
* Parenting and family Issues
* Health
* Pain
* Eating and body image
* Grief and loss
* GLBT
* Work and career
* Stress management
* Family of origin issues
* Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
* Trauma and abuse
* Sexual identity issues
* Spiritual issues
* Stage of life issues
See more therapy options for Columbia
Nearby Searches for Columbia
See More TherapistsHow does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Columbia, MO
200+
Average cost per session
$120
Therapists in Columbia, MO who prioritize treating:
90% | Anxiety |
83% | Depression |
70% | Stress |
68% | Self Esteem |
67% | Relationship Issues |
64% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
77% | Aetna |
74% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
68% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Columbia, MO see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
22% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Columbia?
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.