Therapists in Cullowhee, NC
![Photo of Frank O'Brien, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2801f1df-b4f6-4b32-8c10-1bc2a8495b68/2/320x400.jpeg)
No matter the circumstances which have led to your current distress, my goal is to help you develop hope, confidence, and a strong sense of purpose in your story. The aim is not to learn to handle life “perfectly,” but to learn make peace with how things are, while continuing to work toward bettering ourselves. My goals as a therapist are to help each client align with their core values, gain insight into the internal processes that contribute to their emotional experiences, and develop skills to navigate the unique challenges of their everyday life.
No matter the circumstances which have led to your current distress, my goal is to help you develop hope, confidence, and a strong sense of purpose in your story. The aim is not to learn to handle life “perfectly,” but to learn make peace with how things are, while continuing to work toward bettering ourselves. My goals as a therapist are to help each client align with their core values, gain insight into the internal processes that contribute to their emotional experiences, and develop skills to navigate the unique challenges of their everyday life.
![Photo of Meagan L Giordano, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53056d5b-2d90-4eb0-8b66-7afa4963aefa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meagan L Giordano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cullowhee, NC 28723 (Online Only)
I work with people pleasers, perfectionists, and over achievers who have gotten some terrible messages throughout life from family, relationships, school, and society as a whole about who you "should" be. You have heard that your feelings are unimportant or perhaps "wrong." As a result, you have set out to make others happy instead of yourself in the form of caregiving, parenting, high intensity jobs, or compensating with lots of education. In the process, you have buried your own feelings, thoughts and beliefs, and are constantly on the the lookout that someone will discover that you are a "fake" or an "imposter."
I work with people pleasers, perfectionists, and over achievers who have gotten some terrible messages throughout life from family, relationships, school, and society as a whole about who you "should" be. You have heard that your feelings are unimportant or perhaps "wrong." As a result, you have set out to make others happy instead of yourself in the form of caregiving, parenting, high intensity jobs, or compensating with lots of education. In the process, you have buried your own feelings, thoughts and beliefs, and are constantly on the the lookout that someone will discover that you are a "fake" or an "imposter."
![Photo of Alyssa Bain, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a85ef3b4-2e9d-4acc-bb4e-c06f14831a7f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alyssa Bain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cullowhee, NC 28723 (Online Only)
Maybe you are facing a transition in your life, struggling with your sense of self or personal relationships, or you’ve faced difficult situations that have lingered with you. Sometimes when we are experiencing these we can feel on edge, easily frustrated, confused, unmotivated, or inadequate. You’re ready for a change and want to be met with a balance that leads you to growth and compassion for yourself. I have experience working with a diverse variety of children, adolescents, and adults. I am especially passionate working with those struggling with self-worth, depression, anxiety, trauma, attachment, and parenting.
Maybe you are facing a transition in your life, struggling with your sense of self or personal relationships, or you’ve faced difficult situations that have lingered with you. Sometimes when we are experiencing these we can feel on edge, easily frustrated, confused, unmotivated, or inadequate. You’re ready for a change and want to be met with a balance that leads you to growth and compassion for yourself. I have experience working with a diverse variety of children, adolescents, and adults. I am especially passionate working with those struggling with self-worth, depression, anxiety, trauma, attachment, and parenting.
![Photo of Eden Garmon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ef4290a-08cd-4705-8e23-ee4517cc0bbe/3/320x400.jpeg)
Eden Garmon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cullowhee, NC 28723 (Online Only)
I am passionate about creating a space for marginalized communities such as BIPOC and LGBTQIA+. As a woman of color, my own experiences of growing up in rural Western North Carolina as a child of immigrant parents heavily inform my practice and passion for advocating for minority communities. I have experience working alongside clients as they explore identity and believe we all deserve a safe, judgment-free space to foster self-exploration. My work is based on a holistic, person-centered, and strength-based perspective.
I am passionate about creating a space for marginalized communities such as BIPOC and LGBTQIA+. As a woman of color, my own experiences of growing up in rural Western North Carolina as a child of immigrant parents heavily inform my practice and passion for advocating for minority communities. I have experience working alongside clients as they explore identity and believe we all deserve a safe, judgment-free space to foster self-exploration. My work is based on a holistic, person-centered, and strength-based perspective.
![Photo of Elizabeth Littlefield, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9eadbea7-08a2-426d-87f1-271b9099bb20/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Littlefield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cullowhee, NC 28723
Not accepting new clients
Life can sometimes be overwhelming and we just don’t know how to move forward. Therapy provides a safe, supportive place to regroup, experience nonjudgmental support, and take back the control you have been searching for. While talking to someone can be uncomfortable and sometimes daunting, finding the right therapist that can guide and encourage you will help make lasting transformation in your life.
Life can sometimes be overwhelming and we just don’t know how to move forward. Therapy provides a safe, supportive place to regroup, experience nonjudgmental support, and take back the control you have been searching for. While talking to someone can be uncomfortable and sometimes daunting, finding the right therapist that can guide and encourage you will help make lasting transformation in your life.
![Photo of Richard McDonald, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cb3e71b-ad7f-41c2-bf1d-88719cdc4cb6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Richard McDonald
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cullowhee, NC 28723 (Online Only)
I have a Bachelor's in Economics and a Master's in Mental Health Counseling. I am licensed by the state of North Carolina as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and as a Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS). I am also a Nationally Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist and I belong to the American Counseling Association, The National Board of Certified Counselors, and the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC).
I have a Bachelor's in Economics and a Master's in Mental Health Counseling. I am licensed by the state of North Carolina as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and as a Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS). I am also a Nationally Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist and I belong to the American Counseling Association, The National Board of Certified Counselors, and the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC).
![Photo of Debbi Camacho-Huntoon, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9fbcb24-dd85-4343-8590-620f0881831f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Debbi Camacho-Huntoon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cullowhee, NC 28723 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with adults of all ages who find themselves overwhelmed by situations in their lives. The issues might involve end of relationships, serious health conditions, conflict in relationships, and grief. Adults have multiple responsibilities that include earning a living, meeting financial expenses, caring for children and older family members. It is natural that we forget to think about ourselves. We may become irritable, sad, resentful, and tired all the time. We want someone who can listen without judging. We want a therapist who "gets us", who understands our pain, and wants to help us move forward.
I work with adults of all ages who find themselves overwhelmed by situations in their lives. The issues might involve end of relationships, serious health conditions, conflict in relationships, and grief. Adults have multiple responsibilities that include earning a living, meeting financial expenses, caring for children and older family members. It is natural that we forget to think about ourselves. We may become irritable, sad, resentful, and tired all the time. We want someone who can listen without judging. We want a therapist who "gets us", who understands our pain, and wants to help us move forward.
![Photo of Cassie R Smith, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6bc5a5c-9fce-4174-b3cb-e3767ce4e8f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cassie R Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cullowhee, NC 28723
Not accepting new clients
I am best suited for clients who are ready to work on improving their quality of life. Sometimes we need to address the past, or the present, or our worries about the future. Maybe we are supporting young humans in growing and need some direction for the best ways to set limits and communicate. Regardless of the issue, therapy is a valuable experience and a great weapon to have in tackling both the large and small issues that come up in life.
I am best suited for clients who are ready to work on improving their quality of life. Sometimes we need to address the past, or the present, or our worries about the future. Maybe we are supporting young humans in growing and need some direction for the best ways to set limits and communicate. Regardless of the issue, therapy is a valuable experience and a great weapon to have in tackling both the large and small issues that come up in life.
![Photo of Paula Anderson Demonet, MS, LCMHCS, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5c75ac9-f72a-4e54-b8a5-9d6ca6becd36/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paula Anderson Demonet
Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cullowhee, NC 28723
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy meeting people right where they are in this wild and wonderful experience, we call life. It is important that you feel heard, understood, and accepted for who you are and what you have already experienced. I work to help you resolve underlying negative beliefs and patterns that are getting in the way of who you were always meant to be. Your authentic self. Whether your pain stems from traumatic experiences, attachment wounds, or emotional needs that aren’t being met, therapy can help you sit with the pain while still building a meaningful and rich life.
I enjoy meeting people right where they are in this wild and wonderful experience, we call life. It is important that you feel heard, understood, and accepted for who you are and what you have already experienced. I work to help you resolve underlying negative beliefs and patterns that are getting in the way of who you were always meant to be. Your authentic self. Whether your pain stems from traumatic experiences, attachment wounds, or emotional needs that aren’t being met, therapy can help you sit with the pain while still building a meaningful and rich life.
![Photo of Madeline Cohen, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f044f167-4c19-441f-85e7-6767be3c092f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new clients! Welcome, and congratulations on taking the first step to attending therapy! Are you a college student or young professional experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, major life changes, or relationship concerns? If so, my passion is providing you with a safe and authentic space where you can feel supported. I believe that therapy doesn't have to be scary. Together we will break down barriers that are preventing you from living your ideal life, and we will likely share a few laughs along the way :)
Now accepting new clients! Welcome, and congratulations on taking the first step to attending therapy! Are you a college student or young professional experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, major life changes, or relationship concerns? If so, my passion is providing you with a safe and authentic space where you can feel supported. I believe that therapy doesn't have to be scary. Together we will break down barriers that are preventing you from living your ideal life, and we will likely share a few laughs along the way :)
![Photo of Lindsey Phillips, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b007dcd2-b810-464b-849b-c91d1d56be67/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cullowhee, NC 28723 (Online Only)
You deserve to be more engaged in the present moment and hopeful for your future. I am highly motivated to collaborate with you in achieving your personal goals, improving your mental health, enhancing your quality of life, and celebrating your resilience. We will build a therapeutic relationship to help you heal from past traumas, challenge unhelpful thinking patterns, evaluate unfulfilling relationships, and practice new skills to build a life in which you feel empowered and satisfied. My hope is for you to feel safe bringing your whole self to therapy. My goal is for you to be heard, validated, and witnessed in your growth.
You deserve to be more engaged in the present moment and hopeful for your future. I am highly motivated to collaborate with you in achieving your personal goals, improving your mental health, enhancing your quality of life, and celebrating your resilience. We will build a therapeutic relationship to help you heal from past traumas, challenge unhelpful thinking patterns, evaluate unfulfilling relationships, and practice new skills to build a life in which you feel empowered and satisfied. My hope is for you to feel safe bringing your whole self to therapy. My goal is for you to be heard, validated, and witnessed in your growth.
15 Second Videos
Alyssa Bain
Richard McDonald
Debbi Camacho-Huntoon
Cassie R Smith
Madeline Cohen
![Photo of Amy Conner, MS, LCMHC, LCAS-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20cd1279-c572-4872-878b-bab48c4ace5e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Conner
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cullowhee, NC 28723 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
NOT accepting new clients - Counseling is a collaborative process where I strive to create a safe and open environment for you to share your experiences. Areas that can be addressed through counseling include, but are not limited to grief and loss, depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, life transitions, interpersonal conflicts, and problems with self-confidence. As we work together through the therapeutic process, we create and work toward goals that you want to achieve. We will adjust these goals to ensure that your needs are met quickly, so that you can get back to the best version of yourself.
NOT accepting new clients - Counseling is a collaborative process where I strive to create a safe and open environment for you to share your experiences. Areas that can be addressed through counseling include, but are not limited to grief and loss, depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, life transitions, interpersonal conflicts, and problems with self-confidence. As we work together through the therapeutic process, we create and work toward goals that you want to achieve. We will adjust these goals to ensure that your needs are met quickly, so that you can get back to the best version of yourself.
![Photo of Melissa Shelton, LCSW, LCAS-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3405c76-dc24-49c5-bcd0-414251b5eee3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Currently taking new patients! I know you're making a hard decision! I'm so glad you're choosing to take care of yourself! Maybe you're struggling with knowing who you are beyond a parent, partner, sibling, student, etc..? Some phases in life are just so challenging. I want to help you navigate through these phases with hope; without telling you how to live your life. When we struggle with our mental wellness, the systems around us also struggle, maybe that's your family, kids, pets, relationships, work, friends/social life, etc. In my sessions, YOU can lead the way and I will challenge and encourage you to see beyond the surface.
Currently taking new patients! I know you're making a hard decision! I'm so glad you're choosing to take care of yourself! Maybe you're struggling with knowing who you are beyond a parent, partner, sibling, student, etc..? Some phases in life are just so challenging. I want to help you navigate through these phases with hope; without telling you how to live your life. When we struggle with our mental wellness, the systems around us also struggle, maybe that's your family, kids, pets, relationships, work, friends/social life, etc. In my sessions, YOU can lead the way and I will challenge and encourage you to see beyond the surface.
![Photo of James Foote, LCSW, LCAS, SEP, CTT, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b7959c9-6971-47a9-b9ad-6d14be33576b/3/320x400.jpeg)
James Foote
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, SEP, CTT, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cullowhee, NC 28723 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there, you are not alone on this journey. I believe that therapy is most impactful when offered in a caring and empathetic setting. My counseling philosophy is centered on demonstrating authentic concern and regard for your needs. My goal is to establish a bond built on trust and teamwork. I provide a nurturing environment to delve into self-improvement and change. Together, we can focus on transforming old habits and beliefs to discover new purpose and guidance. If you need help, I am here to assist you. Please don't hesitate to contact me for a free consultation with no obligation or hurry.
Hi there, you are not alone on this journey. I believe that therapy is most impactful when offered in a caring and empathetic setting. My counseling philosophy is centered on demonstrating authentic concern and regard for your needs. My goal is to establish a bond built on trust and teamwork. I provide a nurturing environment to delve into self-improvement and change. Together, we can focus on transforming old habits and beliefs to discover new purpose and guidance. If you need help, I am here to assist you. Please don't hesitate to contact me for a free consultation with no obligation or hurry.
![Photo of Emily Pegram, MS, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bd56db9-d352-41b3-b3f2-16ed11209cfe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Pegram
MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cullowhee, NC 28723 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It is Fucking exhausting, when you're constantly trying to shrink yourself to fit other people's expectations Perhaps you find yourself screaming into the void, feeling lost and overwhelmed by the pressures of existing in this late-stage capitalist hellscape. Maybe you are transitioning into adulthood, searching for acceptance & understanding. You might be starting a new relationship or exploring your sense of self & identity. For years you've felt frustrated & confused by a world that expects you to be someone you are not. But now, you are ready to take up space.
It is Fucking exhausting, when you're constantly trying to shrink yourself to fit other people's expectations Perhaps you find yourself screaming into the void, feeling lost and overwhelmed by the pressures of existing in this late-stage capitalist hellscape. Maybe you are transitioning into adulthood, searching for acceptance & understanding. You might be starting a new relationship or exploring your sense of self & identity. For years you've felt frustrated & confused by a world that expects you to be someone you are not. But now, you are ready to take up space.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Christina Harn, NCC, LCMHCA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1475c8c7-08a9-401e-84b7-6c15d459d646/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Harn
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Sylva, NC 28779
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA). As a therapist I feel it's important to have a collaborative therapeutic relationship in which the client is empowered to achieve healing and growth to all areas of their life. Built on trust, safety, and authenticity (and a bit of humor), I strive for a client-centered approach that fits the unique needs of each client.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA). As a therapist I feel it's important to have a collaborative therapeutic relationship in which the client is empowered to achieve healing and growth to all areas of their life. Built on trust, safety, and authenticity (and a bit of humor), I strive for a client-centered approach that fits the unique needs of each client.
![Photo of Nancy J Marts, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ade4436-7d3f-4974-8c0e-7f48fd8be358/4/320x400.jpeg)
My approach to helping: I see life as a journey. Sometimes we get in a rut and have difficulty getting out, or sometimes we think we are on the right road and things turn out differently than expected, leaving us devastated and not knowing how or what to change. At times, we are unaware of our repeated patterns or how early life experiences have affected us. At the time, we usually do the best we can with what skills we have. Sometimes, we have to change our unhelpful coping skills and develop strategies and skills that will help us be happier and more functional people. Life is a journey, let's take it one step at a time.
My approach to helping: I see life as a journey. Sometimes we get in a rut and have difficulty getting out, or sometimes we think we are on the right road and things turn out differently than expected, leaving us devastated and not knowing how or what to change. At times, we are unaware of our repeated patterns or how early life experiences have affected us. At the time, we usually do the best we can with what skills we have. Sometimes, we have to change our unhelpful coping skills and develop strategies and skills that will help us be happier and more functional people. Life is a journey, let's take it one step at a time.
![Photo of Emily Epps, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41380616-e750-446e-b6c8-8233988fef85/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) and I practices therapy from a Christian Worldview. I approach counseling from a holistic lens, and believe that all areas of your life impact your current situation. Whether you are seeking counseling for yourself or someone you love, reaching out is one of the hardest parts, and it takes courage! I am passionate about working with young adults, adults, and couples to heal and restore their soul. I work to empower my clients through life’s difficulties such as trauma, fear, anxiety, loss, and marital problems.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) and I practices therapy from a Christian Worldview. I approach counseling from a holistic lens, and believe that all areas of your life impact your current situation. Whether you are seeking counseling for yourself or someone you love, reaching out is one of the hardest parts, and it takes courage! I am passionate about working with young adults, adults, and couples to heal and restore their soul. I work to empower my clients through life’s difficulties such as trauma, fear, anxiety, loss, and marital problems.
![Photo of Nicole Conner, MAEd, LCMHC, LCAS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a03075e-478e-4e71-b57d-7dd25ff7535d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Conner
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAEd, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Sylva, NC 28779
Waitlist for new clients
You are not alone! Many folks today are feeling stuck... or overwhelmed by anxiety, loss, and confusion. Others are trying to make meaning of early life events or current relational strife with partners, children, or parents. I enjoy working with a variety of populations including: helping parents navigate difficulties with children who are struggling with anxiety or possible neurodivergence, adolescents struggling to belong or with unhealthy coping skills, young adults balancing college and work, adults navigating transitions such as divorce, retirement, and grief, and those who are in recovery.
You are not alone! Many folks today are feeling stuck... or overwhelmed by anxiety, loss, and confusion. Others are trying to make meaning of early life events or current relational strife with partners, children, or parents. I enjoy working with a variety of populations including: helping parents navigate difficulties with children who are struggling with anxiety or possible neurodivergence, adolescents struggling to belong or with unhealthy coping skills, young adults balancing college and work, adults navigating transitions such as divorce, retirement, and grief, and those who are in recovery.
![Photo of Karen Albig Smith - Karen A Smith LMFT, LCAS, LMFT, LCAS, MAC, SAP, SAE, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22448a85-ea7f-4b7e-8bc7-80a91a807cda/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karen A Smith LMFT, LCAS
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAS, MAC, SAP, SAE
Verified Verified
Sylva, NC 28779 (Online Only)
I enjoy working with clients who actively participate in their therapy. It is important to be ready to enter into therapy. The focus of therapy is on you not the others in your life - for after all you cannot change other people but rather the only person you can change is yourself. I can help you make the changes you want to make. Want to survive a trauma, stay sober, lose weight, interact better with others, recover from a loss, examine a troubled intimacy? This is what I do.
I enjoy working with clients who actively participate in their therapy. It is important to be ready to enter into therapy. The focus of therapy is on you not the others in your life - for after all you cannot change other people but rather the only person you can change is yourself. I can help you make the changes you want to make. Want to survive a trauma, stay sober, lose weight, interact better with others, recover from a loss, examine a troubled intimacy? This is what I do.
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Number of Therapists in Cullowhee, NC
10+
Average cost per session
$125
Therapists in Cullowhee, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
80% | Coping Skills |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Self Esteem |
73% | Life Transitions |
67% | Relationship Issues |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
93% | Aetna |
60% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Cullowhee, NC see their clients
66% | Online Only | |
34% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Cullowhee?
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.