Therapists in Irvington, Portland, OR
![Photo of Christina O Rose, LPC, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf111ae8-6f18-41e5-a81a-313ec9042a31/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina O Rose
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvington, Portland, OR 97232
Not accepting new clients
I offer Individual Counseling specializing in trauma recovery, grief and loss, relationship issues, and personal empowerment. I am a Certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapist. I completed the Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) training through the Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute. I assist clients in re-learning to trust their inner compass and embrace their own capacity for growth and wellness. Part of that growth is in building relationship with themselves, and with others, to develop and or enhance intimacy, community, and connection.
I offer Individual Counseling specializing in trauma recovery, grief and loss, relationship issues, and personal empowerment. I am a Certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapist. I completed the Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP) training through the Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute. I assist clients in re-learning to trust their inner compass and embrace their own capacity for growth and wellness. Part of that growth is in building relationship with themselves, and with others, to develop and or enhance intimacy, community, and connection.
![Photo of Catherine Crew, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/469281a8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine Crew
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Irvington, Portland, OR 97232 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I strongly believe that people are designed to move towards healing when given the opportunity. Over time, life experiences, outdated beliefs, and new habits get us out of alignment with what feels true to ourselves. Within the safety and support of the therapeutic relationship, I help my clients increase awareness of these misalignments and re-activate their internal healing mechanisms.
I strongly believe that people are designed to move towards healing when given the opportunity. Over time, life experiences, outdated beliefs, and new habits get us out of alignment with what feels true to ourselves. Within the safety and support of the therapeutic relationship, I help my clients increase awareness of these misalignments and re-activate their internal healing mechanisms.
![Photo of Anna Esko, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a54bfebd-b082-4629-ba0e-f8846a3930e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach begins with where you are feeling emotionally or physically stuck. We can feel tethered to the past, unsure about the future and not fully present in the now. I work with adults (18+) who are struggling with their identities within their personal beliefs, their relationships and our adapting environment. I will support you in building your understanding of your sense of self, explore your personal/professional boundaries and how that has impacted your relationships, learn your personal power of communication and work to have you be seen, heard and feeling safe in all areas of your life.
My approach begins with where you are feeling emotionally or physically stuck. We can feel tethered to the past, unsure about the future and not fully present in the now. I work with adults (18+) who are struggling with their identities within their personal beliefs, their relationships and our adapting environment. I will support you in building your understanding of your sense of self, explore your personal/professional boundaries and how that has impacted your relationships, learn your personal power of communication and work to have you be seen, heard and feeling safe in all areas of your life.
![Photo of Mary J Evrard, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9964429b-5a95-48e4-a53c-e8a1e365aaca/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary J Evrard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Irvington, Portland, OR 97212 (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients : please send me an email telling me a bit about yourself. My background is working with people struggling with substance abuse, trauma survivors, the LGBTQ community, couples and all forms of families and poly people. I have worked with those with traumatic brain injuries, people with autism, grief and loss, crisis pregnancies, adoption issues, children in foster care and people living with HIV and AIDS. I am proud to have worked in a variety of settings and with people who need support, clarity, and space to heal.
I am currently accepting new clients : please send me an email telling me a bit about yourself. My background is working with people struggling with substance abuse, trauma survivors, the LGBTQ community, couples and all forms of families and poly people. I have worked with those with traumatic brain injuries, people with autism, grief and loss, crisis pregnancies, adoption issues, children in foster care and people living with HIV and AIDS. I am proud to have worked in a variety of settings and with people who need support, clarity, and space to heal.
![Photo of Jerry Woodards, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11f1705f-523e-4513-97fe-2a04332c12cf/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jerry Woodards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Irvington, Portland, OR 97232 (Online Only)
Are you ready to live a better you? You are taking the first step in attaining peace-of-mind, I respect and applaud you for doing so. I have a Masters degree in Social Work from Portland State University and over 40 years of experience working as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I began my private practice, Pathways to Peace Therapy, over 20 years ago, while also working in community mental health and E.R. crisis intervention for over 15 years. In 2014, I also began working with OCD patients. Working in various mental health settings has been invaluable in providing tools to bring to my clients individual needs and goals.
Are you ready to live a better you? You are taking the first step in attaining peace-of-mind, I respect and applaud you for doing so. I have a Masters degree in Social Work from Portland State University and over 40 years of experience working as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I began my private practice, Pathways to Peace Therapy, over 20 years ago, while also working in community mental health and E.R. crisis intervention for over 15 years. In 2014, I also began working with OCD patients. Working in various mental health settings has been invaluable in providing tools to bring to my clients individual needs and goals.
![Photo of Verda Dew, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9b27c9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Each person deserves the benefit of thinking about life in a meaningful way with gentle guidance through counseling. I would be privileged to join you on this journey. As a therapist, I specialize in assisting people through challenging life moments. Using solution-focused techniques and empowerment methods, we’ll identify steps to resolve your personal challenges and reach your goals. I have more than 12 years experience working with individuals and families experiencing challenges with parenting, anxiety, depression, life transition, addiction issues, chronic medical illness including oncology, end-of-life, and grief.
Each person deserves the benefit of thinking about life in a meaningful way with gentle guidance through counseling. I would be privileged to join you on this journey. As a therapist, I specialize in assisting people through challenging life moments. Using solution-focused techniques and empowerment methods, we’ll identify steps to resolve your personal challenges and reach your goals. I have more than 12 years experience working with individuals and families experiencing challenges with parenting, anxiety, depression, life transition, addiction issues, chronic medical illness including oncology, end-of-life, and grief.
![Photo of Keith Dempsey, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b4131d8-d673-4d12-aa37-e1c3427d3001/3/320x400.jpeg)
Keith Dempsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvington, Portland, OR 97232
*Sorry, not accepting new clients* The choice to engage in counseling can be difficult yet beneficial. If you choose to engage in this process you will be treated with the respect, care and dignity you deserve. I provide individual, couple and family counseling central to Black people and Black communities. Exploring racial trauma can be a huge part of this work. Counseling allows a safe platform to explore issues that need to be addressed in a healthy and positive manner.
*Sorry, not accepting new clients* The choice to engage in counseling can be difficult yet beneficial. If you choose to engage in this process you will be treated with the respect, care and dignity you deserve. I provide individual, couple and family counseling central to Black people and Black communities. Exploring racial trauma can be a huge part of this work. Counseling allows a safe platform to explore issues that need to be addressed in a healthy and positive manner.
![Photo of Sue Ujvary - The Gender and Sex Therapy Clinic, PLLC, MS, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1062d781-30ed-4d15-b57e-7a9712dd82d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Gender and Sex Therapy Clinic, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Irvington, Portland, OR 97232 (Online Only)
Finding trustworthy professionals to help you with intimate issues is embarrassing and difficult. You can find a safe space in therapy when you can find it nowhere else. This is my most important skill, something not learned in school: unconditional positive acceptance and honest, non-threatening communication about intimate problems. Here you will find sensitivity to private behaviors which are regarded with non-judgmental acceptance and respect, never shame nor intolerance. Now accepting CareOregon members.
Finding trustworthy professionals to help you with intimate issues is embarrassing and difficult. You can find a safe space in therapy when you can find it nowhere else. This is my most important skill, something not learned in school: unconditional positive acceptance and honest, non-threatening communication about intimate problems. Here you will find sensitivity to private behaviors which are regarded with non-judgmental acceptance and respect, never shame nor intolerance. Now accepting CareOregon members.
![Photo of Nancy Moore, MSW, LCSW, CISD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d101b1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nancy Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CISD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvington, Portland, OR 97232
Not accepting new clients
I am a dedicated mental health professional and have over twenty years of experience working in mental health. I begin my work by listening to what your goals are for counseling. My goal is simply this ~ to help individuals achieve personal growth and well-being through counseling. Together we will identify your goals, explore thinking patterns and emotional barriers that may prevent you from reaching your fullest potential. My approach is down-to-earth, empowering, and supportive. Because I believe a good therapeutic connection between my client and myself is essential, I routinely offer a free 30-minute consultation.
I am a dedicated mental health professional and have over twenty years of experience working in mental health. I begin my work by listening to what your goals are for counseling. My goal is simply this ~ to help individuals achieve personal growth and well-being through counseling. Together we will identify your goals, explore thinking patterns and emotional barriers that may prevent you from reaching your fullest potential. My approach is down-to-earth, empowering, and supportive. Because I believe a good therapeutic connection between my client and myself is essential, I routinely offer a free 30-minute consultation.
![Photo of Angela Guerrero Chapin, MEd, LPC, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/525a16ca-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Guerrero Chapin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
Irvington, Portland, OR 97232
Do you feel as though you are your own worst enemy? When in the midst of a problem or stressful situation, does it seem like you make matters worse by being self-critical or saying self-defeating things to yourself? When we are going through something painful or difficult to accept, our internal dialogue sometimes becomes judgmental and self-critical, causing us to feel overwhelmed and doubt our ability to manage things on our own. Often we do not notice how the relationship we have with ourselves affects our ability to cope, solve problems, and live the life we want.
Do you feel as though you are your own worst enemy? When in the midst of a problem or stressful situation, does it seem like you make matters worse by being self-critical or saying self-defeating things to yourself? When we are going through something painful or difficult to accept, our internal dialogue sometimes becomes judgmental and self-critical, causing us to feel overwhelmed and doubt our ability to manage things on our own. Often we do not notice how the relationship we have with ourselves affects our ability to cope, solve problems, and live the life we want.
![Photo of Sarah Chiartas](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d992ef79-596d-4f98-8196-7658cba02e5c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Chiartas
Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvington, Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals and families of all backgrounds, facing various life challenges. I hope to facilitate an inclusive, non-judgmental, and nurturing space that allows you to feel heard and empowered to move toward your goals.
I work with individuals and families of all backgrounds, facing various life challenges. I hope to facilitate an inclusive, non-judgmental, and nurturing space that allows you to feel heard and empowered to move toward your goals.
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![Photo of Lisette Heidtke, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd9cf911-dcae-49a3-8b2f-3af8b3831308/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisette Heidtke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Irvington, Portland, OR 97212 (Online Only)
Hello! I specialize in providing psychotherapy to those in career/college development, life transitions, or experiencing symptoms, utilizing a holistic and relational approach. I believe every individual has the ability to define and cultivate a path towards their ideal life. My primary focus is to help clients overcome barriers to growth by understanding the origin of their symptoms and concerns through psychoanalysis. Through this self-awareness and applied psychoeducational techniques, clients are able to move forward in their lives building upon their inherent strengths and skills with confidence.
Hello! I specialize in providing psychotherapy to those in career/college development, life transitions, or experiencing symptoms, utilizing a holistic and relational approach. I believe every individual has the ability to define and cultivate a path towards their ideal life. My primary focus is to help clients overcome barriers to growth by understanding the origin of their symptoms and concerns through psychoanalysis. Through this self-awareness and applied psychoeducational techniques, clients are able to move forward in their lives building upon their inherent strengths and skills with confidence.
![Photo of Kim Conrow, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fb776ed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Conrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvington, Portland, OR 97232
My career as a licensed professional counselor, Lewis & Clark adjunct faculty member, and clinical supervisor, have allowed me to help clients set achievable goals with realistic objectives. I understand the challenges of transition and the importance of navigating change while remaining true to one's personal core values. My work has centered on eating disorders, addiction, depression/anxiety and divorce/relationship recovery. By providing a safe place for healing and growth, clients will begin to understand that opposing feelings are often a normal part of the recovery process. My hope is to support you as you awaken to the miraculous.
My career as a licensed professional counselor, Lewis & Clark adjunct faculty member, and clinical supervisor, have allowed me to help clients set achievable goals with realistic objectives. I understand the challenges of transition and the importance of navigating change while remaining true to one's personal core values. My work has centered on eating disorders, addiction, depression/anxiety and divorce/relationship recovery. By providing a safe place for healing and growth, clients will begin to understand that opposing feelings are often a normal part of the recovery process. My hope is to support you as you awaken to the miraculous.
![Photo of Rain Estrada, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d828dff9-1ef4-40e9-8b89-8687737a47b5/1/320x400.png)
I specialize in treating Queer, Trans, Latinx, BIPoC, helping professionals, college students, and creative people in the following topics: gaining confidence and clarity in your identity, building resilience and practicing advocacy amidst oppressive systems, clarifying your direction (career, community, navigating capitalism), imposter syndrome, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and ADHD.
I specialize in treating Queer, Trans, Latinx, BIPoC, helping professionals, college students, and creative people in the following topics: gaining confidence and clarity in your identity, building resilience and practicing advocacy amidst oppressive systems, clarifying your direction (career, community, navigating capitalism), imposter syndrome, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and ADHD.
![Photo of Anissa Bahrenburg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc960c9d-e6f0-4e3d-8f57-b0166521ab1f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anissa Bahrenburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvington, Portland, OR 97232
Hi, I'm Anissa, thank you for visiting my page. I'm excited to explore the work that we can do together. I am fortunate to do work that I love. Therapy is one of the greatest gifts that you can give yourself. It is an investment of time, money and most of all ENERGY in yourself. You are worth it and you can do the work! I offer Sex & Relationship Therapy as well as Clinical Supervision. I work from a trauma informed and strengths based perspective. I believe that you are resilient, strong and wise. I am present-focused and have a collaborative and direct approach.
Hi, I'm Anissa, thank you for visiting my page. I'm excited to explore the work that we can do together. I am fortunate to do work that I love. Therapy is one of the greatest gifts that you can give yourself. It is an investment of time, money and most of all ENERGY in yourself. You are worth it and you can do the work! I offer Sex & Relationship Therapy as well as Clinical Supervision. I work from a trauma informed and strengths based perspective. I believe that you are resilient, strong and wise. I am present-focused and have a collaborative and direct approach.
![Photo of Ross Cohen, MA, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89094685-e84f-419f-af6f-7c93fc98c4c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ross Cohen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvington, Portland, OR 97232 (Online Only)
Curious about EMDR Therapy? EMDR is extensively researched, highly effective, and recommended by organizations such as the APA, WHO, and DoD. In fact, over the last 33 years, millions have been successfully treated with EMDR by over 100,000 clinicians worldwide. EMDR is commonly effective with anxiety, relationship struggles, grief, depression, fears, phobias, panic, trauma, sleep issues, addictions, and performance challenges. What makes EMDR so powerful is how effectively it turns on the brain’s natural healing process, allowing for deep release of the painful past thoughts and wounds that keep you stuck in old, negative patterns.
Curious about EMDR Therapy? EMDR is extensively researched, highly effective, and recommended by organizations such as the APA, WHO, and DoD. In fact, over the last 33 years, millions have been successfully treated with EMDR by over 100,000 clinicians worldwide. EMDR is commonly effective with anxiety, relationship struggles, grief, depression, fears, phobias, panic, trauma, sleep issues, addictions, and performance challenges. What makes EMDR so powerful is how effectively it turns on the brain’s natural healing process, allowing for deep release of the painful past thoughts and wounds that keep you stuck in old, negative patterns.
![Photo of Nina Zurawski, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/508bd283-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nina Zurawski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvington, Portland, OR 97232 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Virtual appointments only at this time! Therapy helps us take a step back to recognize (and use) the power we have to change our lives and relationships. Many of us fear that speaking our truths will separate or isolate us. In actuality, when we live in our true purpose we find ourselves to be more genuine in relationships, allowing us to feel more connected. Together, we will help you engage with yourself and the world in a way that fosters personal clarity and confidence.
Virtual appointments only at this time! Therapy helps us take a step back to recognize (and use) the power we have to change our lives and relationships. Many of us fear that speaking our truths will separate or isolate us. In actuality, when we live in our true purpose we find ourselves to be more genuine in relationships, allowing us to feel more connected. Together, we will help you engage with yourself and the world in a way that fosters personal clarity and confidence.
![Photo of Titia Quinton, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b7398fe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you are finding yourself feeling emotionally altered and without a place to process your feelings confidentially, please contact me. As your counselor, I will provide a nonjudgmental, confidential, and attentive setting in which you can express yourself honestly. The counseling experience will allow you to verbalize feelings, thoughts, and behaviors that may contribute to your area of concern.
If you are finding yourself feeling emotionally altered and without a place to process your feelings confidentially, please contact me. As your counselor, I will provide a nonjudgmental, confidential, and attentive setting in which you can express yourself honestly. The counseling experience will allow you to verbalize feelings, thoughts, and behaviors that may contribute to your area of concern.
![Photo of Scott Vignola, MSW, LCSW, YT200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b03a3c1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Scott Vignola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, YT200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvington, Portland, OR 97232
If your aims include greater insight and agency, while immersed in a new relationship experience that highlights patterns you may be unaware of, then a psychodynamic relational therapy may be ideal for you. You experience symptom relief as the process of treatment deepens: anxiety and depression, interpersonal conflict, these transform, opening new possibilities for your life. We highlight your sense of self and how your self-expression manifests, while illuminating the relational cycles you repeat with yourself, others, and through habits, as you develop a new capacity to understand and influence these aspects of your life.
If your aims include greater insight and agency, while immersed in a new relationship experience that highlights patterns you may be unaware of, then a psychodynamic relational therapy may be ideal for you. You experience symptom relief as the process of treatment deepens: anxiety and depression, interpersonal conflict, these transform, opening new possibilities for your life. We highlight your sense of self and how your self-expression manifests, while illuminating the relational cycles you repeat with yourself, others, and through habits, as you develop a new capacity to understand and influence these aspects of your life.
![Photo of Jay Edwards, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59665765-3f66-4f6e-9980-7b6c9a1d2abf/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been a licensed Clinical Psychologist in Oregon for over 25 years. The origins of my orientation to psychotherapy lie in the Client Centered work of Carl Rogers where empathy, unconditional positive regard, genuineness and acceptance guide the therapeutic pathway toward personal growth. Along the way I've studied Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), all of which inform my clinical approach to treatment, and are especially useful in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, e.g. Social Anxiety and OCD.
I have been a licensed Clinical Psychologist in Oregon for over 25 years. The origins of my orientation to psychotherapy lie in the Client Centered work of Carl Rogers where empathy, unconditional positive regard, genuineness and acceptance guide the therapeutic pathway toward personal growth. Along the way I've studied Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), all of which inform my clinical approach to treatment, and are especially useful in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, e.g. Social Anxiety and OCD.
See more therapy options for Irvington, Portland
Nearby Searches for Irvington, Portland
- Alameda
- Alberta Arts District
- Broadway District
- Eliot
- Grant Park
- Kerns
- King
- Laurelhurst
- Lloyd
- Lloyd District
- Sabin
- Sullivans Gulch
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Irvington, Portland, OR
70+
Average cost per session
$170
Therapists in Irvington, Portland, OR who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
86% | Relationship Issues |
86% | Depression |
84% | Self Esteem |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Grief |
68% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
67% | PacificSource |
49% | Aetna |
45% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Therapists in Irvington, Portland, OR see their clients
56% | In Person and Online | |
44% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
21% | Male | |
4% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Irvington, Portland?
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.