Therapists in Alexandria, VA
![Photo of Iris Elizabeth Baly, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0fa28c7-55d9-41d6-8a06-76c1a274b742/2/320x400.jpeg)
Iris Elizabeth Baly
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
The majority of clients( 75%) that I have worked with over the last eight years in my private practice, tended to be female, of diverse groups, ages 23-80 y.o., presenting with issues associated with relationship conflicts/dynamics, work conflicts, impairment in work performance, etc. The adjustment to which creates disturbances in mood-depression, anxiety, self-doubt, low self-esteem as well as different degrees of impairment in functioning, ie, sleep, appetite, energy level, social withdrawal. They are motivated to seek relief from the emotional distress they experience, and are motivated to fully engage/participate in treatment.
The majority of clients( 75%) that I have worked with over the last eight years in my private practice, tended to be female, of diverse groups, ages 23-80 y.o., presenting with issues associated with relationship conflicts/dynamics, work conflicts, impairment in work performance, etc. The adjustment to which creates disturbances in mood-depression, anxiety, self-doubt, low self-esteem as well as different degrees of impairment in functioning, ie, sleep, appetite, energy level, social withdrawal. They are motivated to seek relief from the emotional distress they experience, and are motivated to fully engage/participate in treatment.
![Photo of Hugh Pinnock, MFT-R, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50005ee7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hugh Pinnock
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314 (Online Only)
Some commonly believed myths about couples counseling are (1) it’s the first step to divorce or separation, (2) a partner is going to feel outnumbered and gained up on, and (3) it involves nothing but tears, sweat, and pain. I am passionate about helping couples heal and rebuild trust after experiencing hurt, neglect, or an affair. I am all about helping couples find their spark again developing habits and communication patterns that help connect them and feel understood by one another. Couples therapy can be fun! Humor lowers tensions and brings a sense of lightheartedness into therapy, reminding us all that we’re only human.
Some commonly believed myths about couples counseling are (1) it’s the first step to divorce or separation, (2) a partner is going to feel outnumbered and gained up on, and (3) it involves nothing but tears, sweat, and pain. I am passionate about helping couples heal and rebuild trust after experiencing hurt, neglect, or an affair. I am all about helping couples find their spark again developing habits and communication patterns that help connect them and feel understood by one another. Couples therapy can be fun! Humor lowers tensions and brings a sense of lightheartedness into therapy, reminding us all that we’re only human.
![Photo of Autumn Church, LPC-A, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6bafc3ac-c585-47ab-9e2d-d6c0cf3cb0ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Autumn completed her undergraduate internship at Virginia Beach Psychiatric Center in 2005. Since then, she has served as a clinician for local non-profit agencies, worked with local Community Services Boards, and facilitated groups in the Adult Behavioral Health Unit at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. She is currently a School Counselor with Virginia Beach City Public Schools. Autumn's theoretical foundation is grounded in a person-centered approach, with a core belief in the importance of relationship development for effective treatment.
Autumn completed her undergraduate internship at Virginia Beach Psychiatric Center in 2005. Since then, she has served as a clinician for local non-profit agencies, worked with local Community Services Boards, and facilitated groups in the Adult Behavioral Health Unit at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. She is currently a School Counselor with Virginia Beach City Public Schools. Autumn's theoretical foundation is grounded in a person-centered approach, with a core belief in the importance of relationship development for effective treatment.
![Photo of Zach Hocanson, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8294f18b-7364-4241-9791-9d95d5699eca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zach Hocanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22305 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
With a specialty in PTSD and other trauma related issues, I have effectively treated First Responders, Military and their families. Are you feeling stuck in another time and place? Do past events influence your current life in a way that they shouldn't? Do you or someone you care about suffer from thoughts and physical symptoms which can weigh you down, be overwhelming and impede your life from being the best it can be right now? I work with a broad range of techniques to bring you into the present and rise above issues that may be haunting you.
With a specialty in PTSD and other trauma related issues, I have effectively treated First Responders, Military and their families. Are you feeling stuck in another time and place? Do past events influence your current life in a way that they shouldn't? Do you or someone you care about suffer from thoughts and physical symptoms which can weigh you down, be overwhelming and impede your life from being the best it can be right now? I work with a broad range of techniques to bring you into the present and rise above issues that may be haunting you.
![Photo of Maxine Iida, BS, MA, LPC-R](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/512c9ef8-a086-4a19-a45c-f6073a58c8de/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maxine Iida
Resident in Counseling, BS, MA, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314 (Online Only)
Do you want to start actually living your life but feel stuck in cycles of shame and anxiety? Perhaps a recent loss or distressing situation leaves you feeling hopeless or lost. Maybe you crave meaning and purpose for your life but are unclear how to create a plan to live your values out. Together we will work to identify your core values so that you begin taking steps towards living a full, intentional life. While we can't get rid of all of life's struggles, we can work on practicing self-compassion, building mental resilience, and cultivating supportive systems to equip you to meet life's challenges with confidence.
Do you want to start actually living your life but feel stuck in cycles of shame and anxiety? Perhaps a recent loss or distressing situation leaves you feeling hopeless or lost. Maybe you crave meaning and purpose for your life but are unclear how to create a plan to live your values out. Together we will work to identify your core values so that you begin taking steps towards living a full, intentional life. While we can't get rid of all of life's struggles, we can work on practicing self-compassion, building mental resilience, and cultivating supportive systems to equip you to meet life's challenges with confidence.
![Photo of Cecilia Thurman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69208639-e1be-4498-b5d3-02a1e561f377/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am board-certified Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years experience. I have substantial experience working with adults with a diverse range of demographic backgrounds and mental health needs. My goal is to help clients overcome difficult circumstances impacting their health and wellness. I work to help my clients uncover their strengths, develop resiliency and become an agent of change in their life. In my practice, I honor diversity and inclusion; I do this by offering supportive and affirming services to every individual I work with.
I am board-certified Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years experience. I have substantial experience working with adults with a diverse range of demographic backgrounds and mental health needs. My goal is to help clients overcome difficult circumstances impacting their health and wellness. I work to help my clients uncover their strengths, develop resiliency and become an agent of change in their life. In my practice, I honor diversity and inclusion; I do this by offering supportive and affirming services to every individual I work with.
![Photo of Peter T. Luehring-Jones, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1af97475-e6d9-4981-b43d-e1dd9948ca86/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults who struggle with PTSD and the lasting effects of traumatic experiences and aim to provide affirming, nonjudgmental, and person-centered therapy to help you make positive and sustainable change in your life. Are you ready to step out of the past and live the life you deserve in the here and now? Together, we'll process traumatic memories, disarm triggers, and reduce avoidance so that you can lower your guard and be fully present for yourself and your loved ones. No matter how long you've suffered with PTSD, you can make changes to bring greater understanding, empowerment, and peace into your life.
I work with adults who struggle with PTSD and the lasting effects of traumatic experiences and aim to provide affirming, nonjudgmental, and person-centered therapy to help you make positive and sustainable change in your life. Are you ready to step out of the past and live the life you deserve in the here and now? Together, we'll process traumatic memories, disarm triggers, and reduce avoidance so that you can lower your guard and be fully present for yourself and your loved ones. No matter how long you've suffered with PTSD, you can make changes to bring greater understanding, empowerment, and peace into your life.
![Photo of Katie Volante, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e788abe6-350f-4ed6-8e4f-8f5c9ea6f8fd/2/320x400.jpeg)
As someone who deeply believes in the transformative power of human connection, my approach is centered around building meaningful helping relationships rooted in empathy and trust. I aim to create a safe and collaborative space where individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and identities can show up as their authentic selves and feel genuinely seen, heard, and supported through life’s challenges. As a member and ally of the LGBTQIA+ community, I intimately understand the complex challenges its members face and am dedicated to providing inclusive, affirming care that celebrates diversity.
As someone who deeply believes in the transformative power of human connection, my approach is centered around building meaningful helping relationships rooted in empathy and trust. I aim to create a safe and collaborative space where individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and identities can show up as their authentic selves and feel genuinely seen, heard, and supported through life’s challenges. As a member and ally of the LGBTQIA+ community, I intimately understand the complex challenges its members face and am dedicated to providing inclusive, affirming care that celebrates diversity.
![Photo of Andrea Leigh Attilli, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/535eb72b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea Leigh Attilli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
You're not disposable, replaceable, and you'd be missed! Relief from overwhelming and debilitating behavioral health symptoms is achievable; individuals aren't defined by their diagnosis and/or symptoms; and, the mind and body are one--possessing extreme potential for full recovery. In a non-judgmental atmosphere, we'll work together identifying and focusing on areas of existing strengths instilling new skills, hope, resiliency, and sustainable recovery. Specifically, I have expertise in suicidality, trauma related disorders, and management of symptoms related to depression, anxiety, and psychosis.
You're not disposable, replaceable, and you'd be missed! Relief from overwhelming and debilitating behavioral health symptoms is achievable; individuals aren't defined by their diagnosis and/or symptoms; and, the mind and body are one--possessing extreme potential for full recovery. In a non-judgmental atmosphere, we'll work together identifying and focusing on areas of existing strengths instilling new skills, hope, resiliency, and sustainable recovery. Specifically, I have expertise in suicidality, trauma related disorders, and management of symptoms related to depression, anxiety, and psychosis.
![Photo of Eeremene Piaro, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7706f91a-f741-42f2-b371-1dfdb272910f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I'm a licensed professional therapist with four years of experience specializing in outpatient counseling. My practice encompasses working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ issues, life stage transition difficulties, and other mental health disorders. Taking the initiative to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I commend you for taking that first step towards change. I'm here to provide you with the support and empowerment you need on your journey.
Hello! I'm a licensed professional therapist with four years of experience specializing in outpatient counseling. My practice encompasses working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ issues, life stage transition difficulties, and other mental health disorders. Taking the initiative to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I commend you for taking that first step towards change. I'm here to provide you with the support and empowerment you need on your journey.
![Photo of Melissa McCarthy - Counseling & Forensic Services,Inc, LPC-R](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7a9ffc8-d456-45dd-a574-c2a39b931c9f/4/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling & Forensic Services,Inc
Resident in Counseling, LPC-R
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Hello! I am a current LPC Resident at Counseling and Forensic Services. I have 12+ years working with children, adolescents, and their families. I use an integrative approach in working with children, using a variety of therapeutic methods that are developmentally age appropriate and child-centered. I received my master’s at The State University of New York at Oswego in Counseling Services with a Certificate of Advanced Study in Mental Health Counseling at St. John Fisher.
Hello! I am a current LPC Resident at Counseling and Forensic Services. I have 12+ years working with children, adolescents, and their families. I use an integrative approach in working with children, using a variety of therapeutic methods that are developmentally age appropriate and child-centered. I received my master’s at The State University of New York at Oswego in Counseling Services with a Certificate of Advanced Study in Mental Health Counseling at St. John Fisher.
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![Photo of Kathleen Gordon-Granado, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/741a3555-eb6e-4441-8e79-9feb66fdf3d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. My focus lies predominantly with adult individuals seeking assistance in managing life stressors, navigating challenging transitions, addressing symptoms of depression or anxiety, or processing past traumatic experiences. Some individuals enter therapy with clear objectives for their lives post-treatment, while others may require assistance in identifying these initial goals. My role is to aid individuals in achieving their own life goals, fostering empowerment and growth.
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. My focus lies predominantly with adult individuals seeking assistance in managing life stressors, navigating challenging transitions, addressing symptoms of depression or anxiety, or processing past traumatic experiences. Some individuals enter therapy with clear objectives for their lives post-treatment, while others may require assistance in identifying these initial goals. My role is to aid individuals in achieving their own life goals, fostering empowerment and growth.
![Photo of Jill Harrington-Lamorie, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4186d5d2-7eb2-4983-834e-f9e77663589a/2/320x400.png)
Jill Harrington-Lamorie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22305 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Life can present us with many changes & transitions that can affect our mental, spiritual, social & physical well-being. Stress is one of the greatest contributors to poor health & quality of life. As we transition through life, we may face losses, such as relocation, infertility/pregnancy loss, identity loss, losses associated with family/parenting/dating; illness/disabling conditions, job & life stress, mid-life issues & aging; challenges to increased feelings of grief, anxiety, & stress. The loss of a loved one is one of the most distressing life circumstances humans endure, and grief is our natural reaction to profound loss.
Life can present us with many changes & transitions that can affect our mental, spiritual, social & physical well-being. Stress is one of the greatest contributors to poor health & quality of life. As we transition through life, we may face losses, such as relocation, infertility/pregnancy loss, identity loss, losses associated with family/parenting/dating; illness/disabling conditions, job & life stress, mid-life issues & aging; challenges to increased feelings of grief, anxiety, & stress. The loss of a loved one is one of the most distressing life circumstances humans endure, and grief is our natural reaction to profound loss.
![Photo of Ellen Klavan, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f630c733-3743-425f-9f2c-890d3c1f4f35/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you're thinking about starting therapy, you've already taken the first step toward making a change. I work with individuals and couples to help people move toward living more rewarding lives. Many of my clients are struggling with depression and/or anxiety. We work to reduce symptoms through simple interventions like mindfulness and breathing practice. At the same time, we journey together to understand the deeper meanings of your symptoms--whether they are biochemical, experiential (rooted in your past) or situational-the goal is to heal old wounds and change the current patterns that aren't serving you.
If you're thinking about starting therapy, you've already taken the first step toward making a change. I work with individuals and couples to help people move toward living more rewarding lives. Many of my clients are struggling with depression and/or anxiety. We work to reduce symptoms through simple interventions like mindfulness and breathing practice. At the same time, we journey together to understand the deeper meanings of your symptoms--whether they are biochemical, experiential (rooted in your past) or situational-the goal is to heal old wounds and change the current patterns that aren't serving you.
![Photo of Mary W Lindahl, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cb438d4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes even the strongest people need help to work through life’s more challenging problems. I offer psychotherapy to children, teens, adults, couples, and families, using a variety of modalities such as psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, play therapy, and family systems approaches. Working collaboratively, I tailor therapy to successfully address the client’s individual needs and goals. I also offer consultation with interested colleagues on issues involved in diagnosis and therapy, working with allied professionals, and encounters with the legal system.
Sometimes even the strongest people need help to work through life’s more challenging problems. I offer psychotherapy to children, teens, adults, couples, and families, using a variety of modalities such as psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, play therapy, and family systems approaches. Working collaboratively, I tailor therapy to successfully address the client’s individual needs and goals. I also offer consultation with interested colleagues on issues involved in diagnosis and therapy, working with allied professionals, and encounters with the legal system.
![Photo of Bonnie Slater Manuel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ab68f54-ac8e-4c68-9829-cf566a82908e/2/320x400.jpeg)
During my twenty years of clinical experience, I find effective therapy always starts with our connection. Growing a warm, non-judgmental working relationship is always my initial goal, as your comfort is important for treatment success. I will collaborate with you to create an individualized approach that will address your difficulties and speak to your strengths and goals. I am a compassionate, direct, and calm communicator and adept at facilitating exploration of your thoughts, feelings and actions in an effort to relieve distress, develop insight, improve coping strategies, and grow healthier, more satisfying relationships.
During my twenty years of clinical experience, I find effective therapy always starts with our connection. Growing a warm, non-judgmental working relationship is always my initial goal, as your comfort is important for treatment success. I will collaborate with you to create an individualized approach that will address your difficulties and speak to your strengths and goals. I am a compassionate, direct, and calm communicator and adept at facilitating exploration of your thoughts, feelings and actions in an effort to relieve distress, develop insight, improve coping strategies, and grow healthier, more satisfying relationships.
![Photo of Semra Weathered, DCH, MS, ERYT500, CIAYT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5167cada-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is anyone who is seeking a life free of anxiety, stress, unhelpful habits, addictions, and behaviors that block inner peace.
My ideal client is anyone who is seeking a life free of anxiety, stress, unhelpful habits, addictions, and behaviors that block inner peace.
![Photo of Anna Alberson, MSW, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3049cb41-71a5-4ab2-b130-dee442a12a79/2/320x400.png)
I use a nonjudgmental, holistic and person-centered approach to aid clients in developing healthy coping skills to deal with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief, relationship issues, life transitions and maladaptive behaviors. I help clients identify and utilize strengths to combat negative thoughts, emotions and behaviors in a warm, safe and nurturing environment.
I use a nonjudgmental, holistic and person-centered approach to aid clients in developing healthy coping skills to deal with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief, relationship issues, life transitions and maladaptive behaviors. I help clients identify and utilize strengths to combat negative thoughts, emotions and behaviors in a warm, safe and nurturing environment.
![Photo of Dr. Cynthia V. Catchings - Dr. Catchings Women's Emotional Wellness Center, PhD, LCSW-S, CFTP, EMDR, LCSWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05587387-4cec-4b3d-9814-b4e713db8da4/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Catchings Women's Emotional Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-S, CFTP, EMDR, LCSWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314 (Online Only)
Emotional issues are a community matter that affects us all. I am dedicated to meeting your needs through support, education, and direct services. I believe in a new high standard of response, helping you at the earliest stage and preventing unnecessary impairment and suffering for you and your family. I specialize in relationships, depression, anxiety, and family violence. I also assist with immigration and home studies. My main goal is to ensure you live a happy life, free of pain and negativity. You are not alone. We can walk together until you feel ready to fly. Cynthia V. Catchings, LCSW-S, CMHIMP, CLYL, CFTP, CMS, EMDR-T
Emotional issues are a community matter that affects us all. I am dedicated to meeting your needs through support, education, and direct services. I believe in a new high standard of response, helping you at the earliest stage and preventing unnecessary impairment and suffering for you and your family. I specialize in relationships, depression, anxiety, and family violence. I also assist with immigration and home studies. My main goal is to ensure you live a happy life, free of pain and negativity. You are not alone. We can walk together until you feel ready to fly. Cynthia V. Catchings, LCSW-S, CMHIMP, CLYL, CFTP, CMS, EMDR-T
![Photo of Marsha Cox, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba6ce3f0-ad6f-44cd-96d7-ea3458984bae/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm all about empowering folks with the right tools to help them shine brighter and faster. Your time and money matter, so I make sure to keep things organized and focused on goals. I've worked with all sorts of people, each with their own unique challenges. My specialties? Well, I've got a knack for helping out with depression, anxiety, life changes, stress, grief, and more. Let's team up and make those positive changes happen!
I'm all about empowering folks with the right tools to help them shine brighter and faster. Your time and money matter, so I make sure to keep things organized and focused on goals. I've worked with all sorts of people, each with their own unique challenges. My specialties? Well, I've got a knack for helping out with depression, anxiety, life changes, stress, grief, and more. Let's team up and make those positive changes happen!
See more therapy options for Alexandria
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Alexandria, VA
1,000+
Average cost per session
$160
Therapists in Alexandria, VA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
81% | Self Esteem |
76% | Stress |
75% | Relationship Issues |
75% | Coping Skills |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
69% | Cigna and Evernorth |
65% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Alexandria, VA see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
86% | Female | |
13% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Alexandria?
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.