Therapists in San Diego, CA
![Photo of Roxanna Shafizadeh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e979ac51-4ba6-4ffd-bd6c-e2354c592b5d/5/320x400.jpeg)
If you've found your way here, it's likely because you're carrying a weight that words might not fully capture. Whether it's the grip of anxiety, the uncertainty of life's transitions, or the struggle with substance challenges, I want you to know that you're not alone. I'm here not just as a therapist but as a companion on your journey. Together, we can unravel the complexities, find strength in vulnerability, and work towards a place of healing. Your story is important, and I'm genuinely invested in helping you navigate through it with empathy, understanding, and support.
If you've found your way here, it's likely because you're carrying a weight that words might not fully capture. Whether it's the grip of anxiety, the uncertainty of life's transitions, or the struggle with substance challenges, I want you to know that you're not alone. I'm here not just as a therapist but as a companion on your journey. Together, we can unravel the complexities, find strength in vulnerability, and work towards a place of healing. Your story is important, and I'm genuinely invested in helping you navigate through it with empathy, understanding, and support.
![Photo of Rene Melara, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbd81405-e1d9-4693-b0c5-69967ab849f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rene Melara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117 (Online Only)
Hola! My name is Rene Melara, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering telehealth sessions for teens and adults throughout California. I have years of experience working with clients with a wide variety of experiences, including depression, anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, and more. I draw from different therapeutic modalities based on the desired goals of clients, but Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is what resonates with me the most. First and foremost, my priority is collaborating with clients to build trust and rapport so that we have a strong foundation to do the work.
Hola! My name is Rene Melara, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering telehealth sessions for teens and adults throughout California. I have years of experience working with clients with a wide variety of experiences, including depression, anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, and more. I draw from different therapeutic modalities based on the desired goals of clients, but Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is what resonates with me the most. First and foremost, my priority is collaborating with clients to build trust and rapport so that we have a strong foundation to do the work.
![Photo of Bryan Schnebelt, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75d5b4b9-b9b1-4f4e-ad3d-43bd3c0a4be9/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are all continually moving through different spaces trying to establish who we are and what is important to us. Adjusting to these environments can be especially difficult if who you are is not embraced, whether it is within your family, at work, in the military, in a social group, or faith-based community. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am an advocate for underrepresented individuals and communities, and try to be affirming to those struggling with being accepted or understood. Therapy can be a space to better recognize your needs, your values, and how to cope more effectively.
We are all continually moving through different spaces trying to establish who we are and what is important to us. Adjusting to these environments can be especially difficult if who you are is not embraced, whether it is within your family, at work, in the military, in a social group, or faith-based community. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am an advocate for underrepresented individuals and communities, and try to be affirming to those struggling with being accepted or understood. Therapy can be a space to better recognize your needs, your values, and how to cope more effectively.
![Photo of Debbie Cecena, APCC, LPC Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecd56d21-1bb3-43cc-af15-2ad1f68ddfdd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Debbie, a bilingual counselor who is passionate about guiding others along their journey of healing and growth. I believe that all people have an innate ability to find their way through struggles and hardships with the support of a caring therapist. I am a highly client-centered therapist who seeks to empower individuals to persevere in the face of depression, anxiety, trauma, or adversity. I aspire to help you find motivation, relaxation, hope and strength to navigate whatever challenges life may bring.
Hello, I'm Debbie, a bilingual counselor who is passionate about guiding others along their journey of healing and growth. I believe that all people have an innate ability to find their way through struggles and hardships with the support of a caring therapist. I am a highly client-centered therapist who seeks to empower individuals to persevere in the face of depression, anxiety, trauma, or adversity. I aspire to help you find motivation, relaxation, hope and strength to navigate whatever challenges life may bring.
![Photo of Yezet Lopez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13842380-ae8a-4bcd-8682-334e891ea0d8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Yezet Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154 (Online Only)
My name is Yezet Lopez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Oxnard, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, parents, teenagers, children, and families at many different phases of life and personal development, I specialize in anxiety, stress, and depressive disorder, using different modalities. Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all, I utilized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Strength-Based Approach Therapy to help you feel empowered to get through your challenges.
My name is Yezet Lopez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Oxnard, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, parents, teenagers, children, and families at many different phases of life and personal development, I specialize in anxiety, stress, and depressive disorder, using different modalities. Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all, I utilized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Strength-Based Approach Therapy to help you feel empowered to get through your challenges.
![Photo of Yvonne E. Munoz, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1799bc4f-9c55-4199-b505-9c1268188560/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yvonne E. Munoz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
At some point we’ve all felt overwhelmed, confused or worried about a relationship, life decision or major choice we’ve had to make. Other times we experience sadness because what we wanted did not work out. Sometimes unfortunate things happen to us and no matter what we do, we can’t forget. We feel powerless, out of control and we can’t move on. What we all have in common is that we want to feel fully alive and connected to our loved ones and free of worry, sadness, anger and disappointment. We want to let go of the past and fully live in the present with hope and optimism for the future.
At some point we’ve all felt overwhelmed, confused or worried about a relationship, life decision or major choice we’ve had to make. Other times we experience sadness because what we wanted did not work out. Sometimes unfortunate things happen to us and no matter what we do, we can’t forget. We feel powerless, out of control and we can’t move on. What we all have in common is that we want to feel fully alive and connected to our loved ones and free of worry, sadness, anger and disappointment. We want to let go of the past and fully live in the present with hope and optimism for the future.
![Photo of Marlee Cornue, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e3cd859-0da6-4eb6-8b0e-923844fda046/1/320x400.jpeg)
Helping people to connect with themselves and others is my passion. If you're looking to better understand your own attachment patterns, heal from relational wounds and trauma, or work on better communication within your own relationships- let's chat! I work with people of all ages. I see couples (marriage, engagement, parent/ child dyads) and individuals (including children).
Helping people to connect with themselves and others is my passion. If you're looking to better understand your own attachment patterns, heal from relational wounds and trauma, or work on better communication within your own relationships- let's chat! I work with people of all ages. I see couples (marriage, engagement, parent/ child dyads) and individuals (including children).
![Photo of Zaire Flowers, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4457a3f-1010-4ee1-ae04-ea92ea66b79f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zaire Flowers
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116 (Online Only)
Are you a Black, Queer, Trans, or differently-abled person ready to live authentically with no regrets? I'll help you build the confidence and self-love that will get you there. Discover a life where self-expression thrives and empowerment reigns! I help people of all genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions overcome their internalized oppression and step into a better future. Learn how to eliminate the emotional obstacles that are blocking the path to your best life. Discover delight, balance, and confidence in your own skin. Change the way you live and experience the life that is rightfully yours!
Are you a Black, Queer, Trans, or differently-abled person ready to live authentically with no regrets? I'll help you build the confidence and self-love that will get you there. Discover a life where self-expression thrives and empowerment reigns! I help people of all genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions overcome their internalized oppression and step into a better future. Learn how to eliminate the emotional obstacles that are blocking the path to your best life. Discover delight, balance, and confidence in your own skin. Change the way you live and experience the life that is rightfully yours!
![Photo of Yang Jiang, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8f70f16-a067-4886-8041-5ee7a78f4d3e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Yang. And I'm here to help you heal from self-abandonment and emotional dysregulation. Self-abandonment occurs when we struggle to stand up for our needs and live by our authentic values; often, we don't even know what they are. Those who struggle with self-abandonment don't feel like they know who they really are, and what they want, and often feel directionless and ungrounded. We feel small, afraid, anxious, aggressive and dependent on others. In particular, I specialize in helping adults who grew up with Asian immigrant parents, or adults from controlling/intense/codependent relationships gain back a sense of self.
Hi, I'm Yang. And I'm here to help you heal from self-abandonment and emotional dysregulation. Self-abandonment occurs when we struggle to stand up for our needs and live by our authentic values; often, we don't even know what they are. Those who struggle with self-abandonment don't feel like they know who they really are, and what they want, and often feel directionless and ungrounded. We feel small, afraid, anxious, aggressive and dependent on others. In particular, I specialize in helping adults who grew up with Asian immigrant parents, or adults from controlling/intense/codependent relationships gain back a sense of self.
![Photo of Jamila Mahfudh, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0bd9c2e-5065-474c-a34e-bea920a6a71d/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a parent, you've noticed a change where your adolescent or teen just isn't the way they used to be. Their smile is gone and they're more to themselves, stressed, unmotivated, anxious, sad, or angry and you know something has to change. You know they often feel misunderstood, are quiet, sensitive, don't easily trust adults, or have seen so many therapists they couldn't make progress with and you're not sure they will open up. You need someone to connect with your teen, join their world, and support them in regaining happiness and stability to meet their goal of having a happy, hopeful and successful life.
As a parent, you've noticed a change where your adolescent or teen just isn't the way they used to be. Their smile is gone and they're more to themselves, stressed, unmotivated, anxious, sad, or angry and you know something has to change. You know they often feel misunderstood, are quiet, sensitive, don't easily trust adults, or have seen so many therapists they couldn't make progress with and you're not sure they will open up. You need someone to connect with your teen, join their world, and support them in regaining happiness and stability to meet their goal of having a happy, hopeful and successful life.
![Photo of Jordy Travis, MA, ACC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bd1b469-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide coaching services to teens, young adults and their families who struggle with ADHD and executive function skills. Challenges include, but are not limited to organization, time-management, prioritization, study skills, social skills and planning. During the coaching process, we pinpoint goals and dreams and uncover underlying issues that are holding them back. Together, we work on developing tools, skills and strategies in order for clients to reach their goals and lead a more fulfilling life.
I provide coaching services to teens, young adults and their families who struggle with ADHD and executive function skills. Challenges include, but are not limited to organization, time-management, prioritization, study skills, social skills and planning. During the coaching process, we pinpoint goals and dreams and uncover underlying issues that are holding them back. Together, we work on developing tools, skills and strategies in order for clients to reach their goals and lead a more fulfilling life.
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![Photo of Janet Rodriguez - Janet Rodriguez, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bb65f34-71f2-4c7b-bc06-49f85415e605/2/320x400.jpeg)
Janet Rodriguez, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92131
Welcome to viewing my profile! I have been in the mental health field for over 15 years. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I received training and focused on the following modes of treatment: attachment theory, play therapy, strength-based, and trauma-informed, among other evidence-based models. Additionally, I have experience working in multidisciplinary settings providing collaborative quality care and psychotherapeutic treatment.
Welcome to viewing my profile! I have been in the mental health field for over 15 years. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I received training and focused on the following modes of treatment: attachment theory, play therapy, strength-based, and trauma-informed, among other evidence-based models. Additionally, I have experience working in multidisciplinary settings providing collaborative quality care and psychotherapeutic treatment.
![Photo of Gabriella Phillips - Self Image Studio, CHT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8e3f9af-42e7-4728-b9c3-566e75349637/2/320x400.jpeg)
We all know that the majority of dieters inevitably gain back all the weight they’ve lost and more. Emotional eating is a coping mechanism, a survival tactic. This self soothing technique is learned early in life to numb uncomfortable feelings. Dieting focuses on the external rather than the internal cues which fuel overeating. The repetitive cycle of gaining and losing weight leads to feelings of hopelessness, shame, failure, and desperation. In order to shift dysfunctional eating patterns, one must identify underlying experiences and belief systems that perpetuate emotional eating.
We all know that the majority of dieters inevitably gain back all the weight they’ve lost and more. Emotional eating is a coping mechanism, a survival tactic. This self soothing technique is learned early in life to numb uncomfortable feelings. Dieting focuses on the external rather than the internal cues which fuel overeating. The repetitive cycle of gaining and losing weight leads to feelings of hopelessness, shame, failure, and desperation. In order to shift dysfunctional eating patterns, one must identify underlying experiences and belief systems that perpetuate emotional eating.
![Photo of Jessica Blair Sturgill - Mental Health First Counseling Services, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/962db3ad-3bd0-4bdd-8336-021dce04ff02/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mental Health First Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117
Jessica Sturgill, LMFT is a Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, I believe in creating goals and assisting my clients to meet those goals. We address negative thoughts, address negative beliefs all while addressing life's complicated ups and downs . My clients range age 11 to 65 and are seeking help with anxiety, depression, addiction and adjustments in their life (children, divorce, illness). We work together as I help guide my clients of all ages in creating the healthy and happy life they envision for themselves.
Jessica Sturgill, LMFT is a Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, I believe in creating goals and assisting my clients to meet those goals. We address negative thoughts, address negative beliefs all while addressing life's complicated ups and downs . My clients range age 11 to 65 and are seeking help with anxiety, depression, addiction and adjustments in their life (children, divorce, illness). We work together as I help guide my clients of all ages in creating the healthy and happy life they envision for themselves.
I'm a clinical psychologist with over twenty years of experience. This includes work with children, adolescents adults and couples. I have experience in different treatment modalities. However, I taylor my treatment approach to the specific needs of my clients. I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative endeavor to work through life challenges. My personal philosophy is that difficult times present an opportunity to grow emotionally, psychologically and spiritually.
I'm a clinical psychologist with over twenty years of experience. This includes work with children, adolescents adults and couples. I have experience in different treatment modalities. However, I taylor my treatment approach to the specific needs of my clients. I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative endeavor to work through life challenges. My personal philosophy is that difficult times present an opportunity to grow emotionally, psychologically and spiritually.
![Photo of David Bond, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59926c05-1ab8-4115-9d56-4711b92cdce9/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a clinician forensic psychologist and retired police officer, specializing in working with emergency first responders (police, fire, paramedics, nurses, doctors) and military personnel. I can help you with troubling past traumatic experiences that are still effecting you and your interpersonal relationships. I retired as a police captain. I have experience in Investigations, SWAT, as a defensive tactic instructor, a range master, and peer support. I worked as an intern for the San Diego Vet Center working with combat veterans and I am a proud honorably discharged United States Marine Corps reservist.
I am a clinician forensic psychologist and retired police officer, specializing in working with emergency first responders (police, fire, paramedics, nurses, doctors) and military personnel. I can help you with troubling past traumatic experiences that are still effecting you and your interpersonal relationships. I retired as a police captain. I have experience in Investigations, SWAT, as a defensive tactic instructor, a range master, and peer support. I worked as an intern for the San Diego Vet Center working with combat veterans and I am a proud honorably discharged United States Marine Corps reservist.
![Photo of Nicole Woolf, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/554f7e52-0cc9-4b4d-a112-9d9c89309980/3/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
![Photo of T Joshua Tan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f537ea51-682f-42a4-846d-0cc5ed49e328/3/320x400.jpeg)
Is anxiety, depression, or trauma holding you back from being your true self? Do you feel stuck in managing difficult life transitions? Now, every little thing becomes super overwhelming. Those negative experiences reopen old wounds and cause new ones. You tried burying your pain hoping it would go away. You feel lonely and tormented. You feel exhausted, stressed, and angry all the time. You wonder how much more you can take. You are unsure of who or where to turn for help. In the midst of this painful journey, you do not have to go through it alone.
Is anxiety, depression, or trauma holding you back from being your true self? Do you feel stuck in managing difficult life transitions? Now, every little thing becomes super overwhelming. Those negative experiences reopen old wounds and cause new ones. You tried burying your pain hoping it would go away. You feel lonely and tormented. You feel exhausted, stressed, and angry all the time. You wonder how much more you can take. You are unsure of who or where to turn for help. In the midst of this painful journey, you do not have to go through it alone.
![Photo of Katee Zullo (Dual Licensed Ca-Tx), MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59fdb590-4047-4f82-8527-8ef0b2fb6ffc/3/320x400.jpeg)
Katee Zullo (Dual Licensed Ca-Tx)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121 (Online Only)
Do your emotions ever seem out of control? Maybe you’re in a daze, just going through the motions? Do you feel like no one understands you? Sometimes life comes at us fast and we have difficulty catching up. The good news is you no longer have to go through this alone. I’m here to help. I work to create a safe, compassionate environment to explore your thoughts and emotions, while emphasizing the healing nature of our therapist-client relationship.
Do your emotions ever seem out of control? Maybe you’re in a daze, just going through the motions? Do you feel like no one understands you? Sometimes life comes at us fast and we have difficulty catching up. The good news is you no longer have to go through this alone. I’m here to help. I work to create a safe, compassionate environment to explore your thoughts and emotions, while emphasizing the healing nature of our therapist-client relationship.
![Photo of James Staunton, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bdcfbc8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
James Staunton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92115 (Online Only)
I am accepting new patients (January 2023). Is life overwhelming and you feel alone with your problems? Do you feel hopeless to achieve the relationship you always wanted? If you want to change, I can help. Maybe you get caught up in fear and anxiety you don't understand what is causing it. Have you been shocked to see yourself acting like your parents in ways you never wanted? Or, do you strive to understand yourself deeply and make sense of your life? Maybe you have that burning desire to find a kind of wholeness in yourself?
I am accepting new patients (January 2023). Is life overwhelming and you feel alone with your problems? Do you feel hopeless to achieve the relationship you always wanted? If you want to change, I can help. Maybe you get caught up in fear and anxiety you don't understand what is causing it. Have you been shocked to see yourself acting like your parents in ways you never wanted? Or, do you strive to understand yourself deeply and make sense of your life? Maybe you have that burning desire to find a kind of wholeness in yourself?
See more therapy options for San Diego
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in San Diego, CA
3,000+
Average cost per session
$160
Therapists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
69% | Self Esteem |
66% | Coping Skills |
64% | Relationship Issues |
64% | Trauma and PTSD |
62% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
81% | Aetna |
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
68% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in San Diego, CA see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in San Diego?
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.