Therapists in Independence, MO
![Photo of Catherine Marie Bogue, Catherine Bogue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb475c87-7279-4437-98b0-f5fa376890c5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine Marie Bogue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Catherine Bogue
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64056 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work in Independence, MO. I have been providing therapy in a variety of setting for 45 years. I have extensive experience and training in providing counseling for those who have experienced trauma, whether as a child or from an event (PTSD). Most of my clients come to therapy for a variety of reasons, which include Depression, Anxiety, Grief, and for Chemical Dependence and other Addictive Behaviors. This would also include stress from significant life changes such as divorce or relationship issues. I provide video counseling through BetterHelp.com. You may request my services on that app.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work in Independence, MO. I have been providing therapy in a variety of setting for 45 years. I have extensive experience and training in providing counseling for those who have experienced trauma, whether as a child or from an event (PTSD). Most of my clients come to therapy for a variety of reasons, which include Depression, Anxiety, Grief, and for Chemical Dependence and other Addictive Behaviors. This would also include stress from significant life changes such as divorce or relationship issues. I provide video counseling through BetterHelp.com. You may request my services on that app.
![Photo of Erica L Thompson, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91566ef8-86c2-409e-97c2-dfdc240d4c2c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Erica L Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
Dr. Erica Thompson, LPC is a multiculturally competent and realistic therapist that believes in meeting people where they are. She takes an individualistic approach in therapy understanding that the needs of everyone will be different. Understanding comfort and flexibility are top priorities for those needing therapy, her services are conducted in a variety of settings including, in-home, teletherapy, and traditonal office settings.
Dr. Erica Thompson, LPC is a multiculturally competent and realistic therapist that believes in meeting people where they are. She takes an individualistic approach in therapy understanding that the needs of everyone will be different. Understanding comfort and flexibility are top priorities for those needing therapy, her services are conducted in a variety of settings including, in-home, teletherapy, and traditonal office settings.
![Photo of Derek Keath Faulkner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45dec57d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel alone, and like no one cares? I care about you and your well being. I want to help you win against the struggles you are facing. You are capable of more than you think and I want to bring out the best in you. I am confident that i can help you. I want to be a shoulder to lean on emotionally as well as to cry on. I love working with new people, of all differences, and diversities. Given the chance, I would love to serve and care for you in your time of need.
Do you feel alone, and like no one cares? I care about you and your well being. I want to help you win against the struggles you are facing. You are capable of more than you think and I want to bring out the best in you. I am confident that i can help you. I want to be a shoulder to lean on emotionally as well as to cry on. I love working with new people, of all differences, and diversities. Given the chance, I would love to serve and care for you in your time of need.
![Photo of Peyton Shaffer, BSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4022ab8a-a663-4b33-8e2f-48e36c7b1603/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peyton Shaffer, BSW, LMSW, is a mental health counselor at Summit Therapeutic Services, LLC. Peyton has been in the field of mental health for many years including experience at mental health community centers and not for profit treatment centers. Peyton was drawn to the field of Social Work and counseling through her own experience with therapy and mental health. Her focus mainly being on trauma and anxiety, Peyton has become a very passionate and helpful resource for those seeking guidance and support during their journey of growth and healing.
Peyton Shaffer, BSW, LMSW, is a mental health counselor at Summit Therapeutic Services, LLC. Peyton has been in the field of mental health for many years including experience at mental health community centers and not for profit treatment centers. Peyton was drawn to the field of Social Work and counseling through her own experience with therapy and mental health. Her focus mainly being on trauma and anxiety, Peyton has become a very passionate and helpful resource for those seeking guidance and support during their journey of growth and healing.
![Photo of Emily DeFoe, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1b54573-cae5-4cc6-9a1c-5cd819377e0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily DeFoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri and Kansas (LCSW, LSCSW). I work with adolescents (12+), individuals, and couples, utilizing a trauma-informed lens and concepts from CBT, ACT, and DBT skills. I have a strengths-based approach and am LGBTQ+-affirming. Clients have described my style as "positive, warm, and direct" - I hope and believe that our time working together will feel like a safe space for you to grow and make progress toward your goals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri and Kansas (LCSW, LSCSW). I work with adolescents (12+), individuals, and couples, utilizing a trauma-informed lens and concepts from CBT, ACT, and DBT skills. I have a strengths-based approach and am LGBTQ+-affirming. Clients have described my style as "positive, warm, and direct" - I hope and believe that our time working together will feel like a safe space for you to grow and make progress toward your goals.
![Photo of Mary Younger, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/480605ab-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Looking to gain a better perspective on life? Improve self-esteem? Stop the racing thoughts, anxiety, constant worry and depression? I provide supportive therapy to help people realize they can make these positive changes and know they are not alone.
Looking to gain a better perspective on life? Improve self-esteem? Stop the racing thoughts, anxiety, constant worry and depression? I provide supportive therapy to help people realize they can make these positive changes and know they are not alone.
![Photo of Katie McCurter, MA, LPC, CTMH, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec657608-7ec4-47b2-9fb2-7ad54f933afb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie McCurter
Counselor, MA, LPC, CTMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64058 (Online Only)
Life, laughter, and love are important to living life wholeheartedly, but psychological pain can get in the way. Abuse in the context of a close relationship or a family can create the most pervasive and persistent psych-ache, and may be passed from generation to generation. Whether the source of pain is past trauma, worry about the future, or even current jobs or relationships, I am here to help! I often see clients whose trauma began in domestic abuse in the forms of emotional, psychological, physical, sexual, or financial abuses.
Life, laughter, and love are important to living life wholeheartedly, but psychological pain can get in the way. Abuse in the context of a close relationship or a family can create the most pervasive and persistent psych-ache, and may be passed from generation to generation. Whether the source of pain is past trauma, worry about the future, or even current jobs or relationships, I am here to help! I often see clients whose trauma began in domestic abuse in the forms of emotional, psychological, physical, sexual, or financial abuses.
![Photo of Michael Moore, MA, CAS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8d6c093-0662-4ae9-bb8b-bfb20423e4bd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CAS, LPC
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64055
The angry, argumentative, and underperforming child is often seen by others as the product of lax parenting. This unfortunate characterization has had a great impact on the way our children are viewed by schools, employers, and society in general. The fact is parents often exhaust various recommended "fixes" and desperately want things to be normal.
I have over 25 years of experience working with children and families. I understand the daily struggles parents routinely face. I know how school performance, relationships, and behavior are impacted when children struggle. I understand the frustrations associated with a child who "acts out" and underperforms.
The angry, argumentative, and underperforming child is often seen by others as the product of lax parenting. This unfortunate characterization has had a great impact on the way our children are viewed by schools, employers, and society in general. The fact is parents often exhaust various recommended "fixes" and desperately want things to be normal.
I have over 25 years of experience working with children and families. I understand the daily struggles parents routinely face. I know how school performance, relationships, and behavior are impacted when children struggle. I understand the frustrations associated with a child who "acts out" and underperforms.
![Photo of Nadirah Habeebullah, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08d2cb8c-9f68-44c9-af28-7af42facbfe1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Trauma sucks! It's had you on an emotional roller coaster for a while, and lately there are more downs than ups. You try your best, but you can't stop spiraling. Your emotions feel so unstable and you feel depressed even when things are fine. Plus there's intense anger, intrusive thoughts, seemingly random anxiety, fallouts with friends and loved ones, and/or a host of chaotic relationships. You want to feel balanced, in control of your emotions. You want to have healthy relationships that bring more joy than stress. You want to enjoy your life instead of just survive it, but you don't know how. That's why you're here.
Trauma sucks! It's had you on an emotional roller coaster for a while, and lately there are more downs than ups. You try your best, but you can't stop spiraling. Your emotions feel so unstable and you feel depressed even when things are fine. Plus there's intense anger, intrusive thoughts, seemingly random anxiety, fallouts with friends and loved ones, and/or a host of chaotic relationships. You want to feel balanced, in control of your emotions. You want to have healthy relationships that bring more joy than stress. You want to enjoy your life instead of just survive it, but you don't know how. That's why you're here.
![Photo of Deborah Lou Babbitt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a6889a2-f0ab-43b8-a000-92e5564dc4c3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Lou Babbitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64055 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Deborah Babbitt, MSW, LCSW Deborah is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri. After earning her MSW at University of Missouri, Kansas City in 2010 as a Jewish Heritage-Hartford Fellow, she worked with adults, older adults and families in various settings. Work in community, health care and acute psychiatric care settings have provided Deborah with a broad perspective on the issues of aging and supporting aging parents, coping with chronic illness, depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, grief and loss. She is available to provide ongoing addiction therapy to persons who have completed a detox program.
Deborah Babbitt, MSW, LCSW Deborah is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri. After earning her MSW at University of Missouri, Kansas City in 2010 as a Jewish Heritage-Hartford Fellow, she worked with adults, older adults and families in various settings. Work in community, health care and acute psychiatric care settings have provided Deborah with a broad perspective on the issues of aging and supporting aging parents, coping with chronic illness, depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, grief and loss. She is available to provide ongoing addiction therapy to persons who have completed a detox program.
![Photo of Anna E Reid, BSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0ece9ca-5598-4957-a167-2b49e22e7b0a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anna E Reid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
We all experience challenges and conflict, both externally and internally. Questions like "Where do I belong?", "What is my life purpose?", or "How can I make it through today" surface in response to stress, anxiety and depression. You are not alone! I provide support to adolescents, young adults and adults experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, negative thoughts, and stress. Together, we will create an individualized treatment plans specific to your needs. We will walk this path together, learning new, healthy ways of living our one life well. Reach out today for more info at thewellkc.com
We all experience challenges and conflict, both externally and internally. Questions like "Where do I belong?", "What is my life purpose?", or "How can I make it through today" surface in response to stress, anxiety and depression. You are not alone! I provide support to adolescents, young adults and adults experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, negative thoughts, and stress. Together, we will create an individualized treatment plans specific to your needs. We will walk this path together, learning new, healthy ways of living our one life well. Reach out today for more info at thewellkc.com
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I consider what my client and their environment can bring to their process of healing. I believe that I am an active participant, encouraging the process of change alongside my client. My goal is to offer support and strategies so that my clients can decide for themselves what is appropriate for them. I strive to help my clients gain perspective and a deeper understanding of their lives so they are empowered to make meaningful breakthroughs for themselves. In addition to individual therapy, I enjoy working with couples helping them to relate better with one another or to cope with family issues in healthier ways.
I consider what my client and their environment can bring to their process of healing. I believe that I am an active participant, encouraging the process of change alongside my client. My goal is to offer support and strategies so that my clients can decide for themselves what is appropriate for them. I strive to help my clients gain perspective and a deeper understanding of their lives so they are empowered to make meaningful breakthroughs for themselves. In addition to individual therapy, I enjoy working with couples helping them to relate better with one another or to cope with family issues in healthier ways.
![Photo of Shara A McGlothan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d25d81fe-67fd-40c2-9b9a-0267f63be38b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am here for those that are fed up, tired, lost, misunderstood, disconnected, and hopeless. Here is a place to release your burden and create a new path. You do not have to stay trapped in your confusion. You do not have to continue to shut down or shut out. You do not have to keep hiding. I can guide you into making sense of your experiences. This leads to new perspectives that allow space for making new meaning or finding solutions. Is your home a war zone? Has your spouse become a stranger? Your child out of control? Life unbearable? Let me help you find clarity in your circumstances and tools to move forward. Find your freedom.
I am here for those that are fed up, tired, lost, misunderstood, disconnected, and hopeless. Here is a place to release your burden and create a new path. You do not have to stay trapped in your confusion. You do not have to continue to shut down or shut out. You do not have to keep hiding. I can guide you into making sense of your experiences. This leads to new perspectives that allow space for making new meaning or finding solutions. Is your home a war zone? Has your spouse become a stranger? Your child out of control? Life unbearable? Let me help you find clarity in your circumstances and tools to move forward. Find your freedom.
![Photo of Jannae Turley, LPCC, PLPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bbefce8-d080-47e2-a38e-cedd2e7c316a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Do you ever feel like it is you against the world? Or wonder if there is anyone “in your corner”? This world can throw all sorts of difficulties our way and sometimes it is helpful to know you are not alone in the fight. Those difficulties may present with symptoms of depression, anxiety, fear, worthlessness, addiction, trauma, negative thinking, or loss. I understand how tempting it is to give up the fight, but I also know the joyful victory that comes with healing and freedom. I am holding hope for you even if, right now, you are not able to hope for yourself. I believe there is abundant life and wholeness for YOU!
Do you ever feel like it is you against the world? Or wonder if there is anyone “in your corner”? This world can throw all sorts of difficulties our way and sometimes it is helpful to know you are not alone in the fight. Those difficulties may present with symptoms of depression, anxiety, fear, worthlessness, addiction, trauma, negative thinking, or loss. I understand how tempting it is to give up the fight, but I also know the joyful victory that comes with healing and freedom. I am holding hope for you even if, right now, you are not able to hope for yourself. I believe there is abundant life and wholeness for YOU!
![Photo of Sharree Jensen, MS-MFT, PLMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8977b91e-76a3-4639-83af-d55782446c5b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sharree Jensen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS-MFT, PLMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64050
Let's be real. You are here looking for a therapist because something in you knows it is time for change. Whether that change is just for you or within your relationships... whether it is old stuff you "should be over," new stuff that is just hitting, or another combination of life's challenges... I'm here, ready to walk through it with you. You are here, and that is the first courageous step. Let's take the next step together by scheduling a free consultation call to see if we are a good fit. Please note: In order to provide you with personalized & flexible therapy, I do not accept insurance. I do accept HSA, Debit, & Credit Cards.
Let's be real. You are here looking for a therapist because something in you knows it is time for change. Whether that change is just for you or within your relationships... whether it is old stuff you "should be over," new stuff that is just hitting, or another combination of life's challenges... I'm here, ready to walk through it with you. You are here, and that is the first courageous step. Let's take the next step together by scheduling a free consultation call to see if we are a good fit. Please note: In order to provide you with personalized & flexible therapy, I do not accept insurance. I do accept HSA, Debit, & Credit Cards.
![Photo of Paul Busk, MA, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/420f6918-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paul Busk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LCMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
Keeping passion and connection in relationships while also thriving as individuals is a goal that many of us have. Balancing these aspects of life can be difficult, especially when life stressors, mental or emotional disorders, or trauma present themselves. My goal is to help clients achieve their goals of connection and personal growth, while challenging them to act on the best parts of themselves. I am passionate about working with couples struggling with intimacy and desire issues. My approach in working with couples centers on differentiation based therapies and encourages both individual and couple growth.
Keeping passion and connection in relationships while also thriving as individuals is a goal that many of us have. Balancing these aspects of life can be difficult, especially when life stressors, mental or emotional disorders, or trauma present themselves. My goal is to help clients achieve their goals of connection and personal growth, while challenging them to act on the best parts of themselves. I am passionate about working with couples struggling with intimacy and desire issues. My approach in working with couples centers on differentiation based therapies and encourages both individual and couple growth.
![Photo of Ian Benemerito, PLMFT, LMFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6a09cc2-6f92-4d52-853f-43eb4706f3a8/3/320x400.jpeg)
You're exhausted trying to make things work. You're worried that things won’t seem to be get better. Somehow, it ends up the same. It's impacting your personal well-being, your work, and your relationships. You’re resentful that you and others just can’t see eye to eye. Arguments become explosions. Explosions lead to long periods of internalized silence. You just want to be understood or left alone. “Why can’t anyone just get me!?!” You want to feel better-to find relief from the enormous burdens you carry. You just want to live a life without the stress that doesn't seem to go away.
You're exhausted trying to make things work. You're worried that things won’t seem to be get better. Somehow, it ends up the same. It's impacting your personal well-being, your work, and your relationships. You’re resentful that you and others just can’t see eye to eye. Arguments become explosions. Explosions lead to long periods of internalized silence. You just want to be understood or left alone. “Why can’t anyone just get me!?!” You want to feel better-to find relief from the enormous burdens you carry. You just want to live a life without the stress that doesn't seem to go away.
![Photo of Christy L Stephens, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53e37650-6cc5-4d92-9a0e-f6a761045945/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christy L Stephens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64050
Are you emotionally and physically exhausted at the end of each day? Do personal relationships leave you wounded and questioning your value? We should talk. Life experiences often leave us feeling emotionally crushed and overwhelmed. Together we can sort through these experiences and determine your unique path to healing. I believe in the inherent value of every individual and their capacity to be whole, happy and free from persistent emotional pain. Let's discover the approach that feels good and makes the most sense to you on your way to a happier, healthier you.
Are you emotionally and physically exhausted at the end of each day? Do personal relationships leave you wounded and questioning your value? We should talk. Life experiences often leave us feeling emotionally crushed and overwhelmed. Together we can sort through these experiences and determine your unique path to healing. I believe in the inherent value of every individual and their capacity to be whole, happy and free from persistent emotional pain. Let's discover the approach that feels good and makes the most sense to you on your way to a happier, healthier you.
![Photo of Greg E Neubauer, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c2605c0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Greg E Neubauer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64050
I have over 30 years of clinical experience providing counseling therapy to adult individuals, children, adolescents, families, and couples to address their emotional and behavioral struggles. I utilize a cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, goal directed, reality based treatment approach, integrating family dynamics as needed, to help clients effectively resolve or learn to cope with their struggles. I am available to coordinate with schools and other treatment providers. My office at Truman & Main St on the Independence Square offers a convenient, unassuming, confidential, and relaxing environment.
I have over 30 years of clinical experience providing counseling therapy to adult individuals, children, adolescents, families, and couples to address their emotional and behavioral struggles. I utilize a cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, goal directed, reality based treatment approach, integrating family dynamics as needed, to help clients effectively resolve or learn to cope with their struggles. I am available to coordinate with schools and other treatment providers. My office at Truman & Main St on the Independence Square offers a convenient, unassuming, confidential, and relaxing environment.
![Photo of Melinda Bonham Couple And Family Therapist, PLMFT, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86d5939e-b57f-4bd6-9bf2-067a97237ba9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melinda Bonham Couple And Family Therapist
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLMFT, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64050
Do you live in a constant sense of disconnection-no matter what you do, things never feel quite "okay?" Do you feel controlled by your emotions, overwhelmed by the pressure to accomplish? Does past trauma impact how you show up daily? Has this snowballed into a constant sense of anxiety, stress, and disappointment? Is your self-care and relationships struggling also? Do communication breakdowns and conflict feel like the norm? Do you feel frustrated by the disconnection that has emerged in your life, and it is hard to know how to break the cycle? There is a way to ask for what you need without sacrificing your own boundaries.
Do you live in a constant sense of disconnection-no matter what you do, things never feel quite "okay?" Do you feel controlled by your emotions, overwhelmed by the pressure to accomplish? Does past trauma impact how you show up daily? Has this snowballed into a constant sense of anxiety, stress, and disappointment? Is your self-care and relationships struggling also? Do communication breakdowns and conflict feel like the norm? Do you feel frustrated by the disconnection that has emerged in your life, and it is hard to know how to break the cycle? There is a way to ask for what you need without sacrificing your own boundaries.
See more therapy options for Independence
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Independence, MO
100+
Average cost per session
$120
Therapists in Independence, MO who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Relationship Issues |
73% | Self Esteem |
66% | Coping Skills |
59% | Grief |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | Aetna |
64% | Cigna and Evernorth |
61% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Independence, MO see their clients
83% | In Person and Online | |
17% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
76% | Female | |
23% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Independence?
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.