Therapists in San Diego, CA
![Photo of Roselyn Romano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/529d2a37-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I help those who desire quiet from the noise of constant thinking, self-doubt, and worry. Those who are sick of feeling not good enough no matter how hard they try. Those who feel powerless against compulsive urges they can’t seem to resist. And those who want to let go of the mental chatter of a mind incessantly playing out worst case scenarios.
I help those who desire quiet from the noise of constant thinking, self-doubt, and worry. Those who are sick of feeling not good enough no matter how hard they try. Those who feel powerless against compulsive urges they can’t seem to resist. And those who want to let go of the mental chatter of a mind incessantly playing out worst case scenarios.
![Photo of Caroline de Pottel, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bba7300e-83cd-42d6-a25e-6127909b2b65/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline de Pottel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92122
I use an in-depth focus that has a practical application. I understand past and present difficulties within the context of family relationships. I think of each person as dynamic and changeable. When a person comes to me for help, I understand that person to be stuck in ways that are out of their conscious awareness. Work and/or relationship functioning can easily be blocked or limited. Changing is complex and requires the assistance of a skilled and caring professional. If you are ready to face the deeper issues interfering with your personal success, it is time to contact me.
I use an in-depth focus that has a practical application. I understand past and present difficulties within the context of family relationships. I think of each person as dynamic and changeable. When a person comes to me for help, I understand that person to be stuck in ways that are out of their conscious awareness. Work and/or relationship functioning can easily be blocked or limited. Changing is complex and requires the assistance of a skilled and caring professional. If you are ready to face the deeper issues interfering with your personal success, it is time to contact me.
![Photo of Genoveva Mireles, LCSW, ASW, MA, BA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f04b8376-d0d3-4274-bfbb-b83905b40bb0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Genoveva Mireles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ASW, MA, BA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
If you are looking for a safe , nurturing , and welcoming setting to work on your self , family and or relationship issues you found it. I help clients with emotional pain or help them heal from family of origin issues . I treat trauma and addictions. I help people understand how and why their life has been unmanageable or how the same patterns of thinking, perceiving and or interacting with others is hurting them and or keeping them stuck. It is not easy to find a therapist or the right one and I do not know if I am however this process is part of that journey. So Lets give a try and reach out for a free consultation.
If you are looking for a safe , nurturing , and welcoming setting to work on your self , family and or relationship issues you found it. I help clients with emotional pain or help them heal from family of origin issues . I treat trauma and addictions. I help people understand how and why their life has been unmanageable or how the same patterns of thinking, perceiving and or interacting with others is hurting them and or keeping them stuck. It is not easy to find a therapist or the right one and I do not know if I am however this process is part of that journey. So Lets give a try and reach out for a free consultation.
![Photo of Reena Mittal, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9712ab1d-9e3a-4c7d-bb52-76157d625296/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling stuck, or locked into situations you find overwhelming? Do the stresses around work, family or relationships weigh heavily on your mind? Are you dwelling on the past, or anxious about the future? Has the search for purpose and meaning in your life or career left you unfulfilled, feeling like you're falling short of your full potential?
Are you feeling stuck, or locked into situations you find overwhelming? Do the stresses around work, family or relationships weigh heavily on your mind? Are you dwelling on the past, or anxious about the future? Has the search for purpose and meaning in your life or career left you unfulfilled, feeling like you're falling short of your full potential?
![Photo of Daniel Carr, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bfffdc4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
In my work with families, couples and individuals, I have found that happiness lies in having rich, caring relationships with people that we love. To develop loving and caring relationships requires skill and compassion. My job is to offer insight and awareness as to ways to develop these kinds of relationships. I find that my clients demonstrate an openness, courageous spirit and perseverance to achieve this goal. I have been blessed to work with many people who have taught me what it is to be human. It has always been my desire to give back what I have received.
In my work with families, couples and individuals, I have found that happiness lies in having rich, caring relationships with people that we love. To develop loving and caring relationships requires skill and compassion. My job is to offer insight and awareness as to ways to develop these kinds of relationships. I find that my clients demonstrate an openness, courageous spirit and perseverance to achieve this goal. I have been blessed to work with many people who have taught me what it is to be human. It has always been my desire to give back what I have received.
![Photo of Emily Collard, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee32afb1-872c-4ab0-b3d4-9fbae69b7bff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Collard
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109 (Online Only)
I believe being human is acknowledging that our lives often reflect a different reality than we envisioned for ourselves. This can be espeically true in the postpartum period. As a therapist for moms, I can say I have lived this experience for myself. My transition to becoming a mom included birth trauma, a birth injury, and postpartum depression. If you have ever thought to yourself, "This is not what I expected.", "Why am I struggling so much?", or "I'm not good enough", you are in the right place! Me too, friend.
I believe being human is acknowledging that our lives often reflect a different reality than we envisioned for ourselves. This can be espeically true in the postpartum period. As a therapist for moms, I can say I have lived this experience for myself. My transition to becoming a mom included birth trauma, a birth injury, and postpartum depression. If you have ever thought to yourself, "This is not what I expected.", "Why am I struggling so much?", or "I'm not good enough", you are in the right place! Me too, friend.
![Photo of Vivian Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1786e5f2-41f0-4d33-8cb0-e01141f42857/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Vivian E. Johnson, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I predominately utilize the psychodynamic approach. I work with individuals, families, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and trauma. I help clients recognize their recurring unhelpful thought, emotional and behavioral patterns, and the defense mechanisms they've developed to avoid distress and cope with stress. This insight may allow them to begin changing those patterns and develop more helpful and healthier ways to cope with life stressors.
My name is Vivian E. Johnson, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I predominately utilize the psychodynamic approach. I work with individuals, families, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and trauma. I help clients recognize their recurring unhelpful thought, emotional and behavioral patterns, and the defense mechanisms they've developed to avoid distress and cope with stress. This insight may allow them to begin changing those patterns and develop more helpful and healthier ways to cope with life stressors.
![Photo of Dr. Emily N Kierce - Dr. Emily N. Kierce, PsyD, NCSP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/535a0d7c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sentiero is an outpatient practice comprised of school psychologists, clinical psychologists, and registered psychological associates who conduct psychotherapy and psychological assessments. The approach at Sentiero is not a “one size fits all” model. While many of our clinicians utilize various theoretic modalities, we are grounded in psychoanalytic theory and tailor treatment to the needs of the patient.
Sentiero is an outpatient practice comprised of school psychologists, clinical psychologists, and registered psychological associates who conduct psychotherapy and psychological assessments. The approach at Sentiero is not a “one size fits all” model. While many of our clinicians utilize various theoretic modalities, we are grounded in psychoanalytic theory and tailor treatment to the needs of the patient.
![Photo of Doug Aucoin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e04ca278-ed97-41e6-be38-61006797c6cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taking the first steps to make changes and move towards recovery and growth is often not easy but feeling better matters. You may feel as if you’re struggling even if you’re smart, hard-working and motivated, but you can feel better. Clients come to therapy burdened with such things as anxiety/mood concerns, grief/loss issues, low self-esteem, LGBTQ+ issues, men's issues or challenges with life transitions. You want to move forward and make positive changes but are not sure where to start. Have a mature, relational, compassionate and insight- oriented therapeutic partner with you on this journey. If you contact me, I will reach out.
Taking the first steps to make changes and move towards recovery and growth is often not easy but feeling better matters. You may feel as if you’re struggling even if you’re smart, hard-working and motivated, but you can feel better. Clients come to therapy burdened with such things as anxiety/mood concerns, grief/loss issues, low self-esteem, LGBTQ+ issues, men's issues or challenges with life transitions. You want to move forward and make positive changes but are not sure where to start. Have a mature, relational, compassionate and insight- oriented therapeutic partner with you on this journey. If you contact me, I will reach out.
![Photo of Shaul M Saddick, MA, PhD, QME, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b310a34-6b48-4e55-9d3f-58e744102927/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you experiencing any of the following problems: psychological stress, psychological trauma, difficulties in coping, or depression as a result of relationship / marital issues, divorce, loss, job-related psychological / physical injury, or a motor vehicle accident in which you may have become physically or psychologically traumatized? If you are, I can assist in evaluating and psychologically treating these issues. I can help restore psychological wellness and improve the over-all quality of your life. I am proficient in the following languages: English, Arabic, Hebrew, and Farsi ( Persian).
Are you experiencing any of the following problems: psychological stress, psychological trauma, difficulties in coping, or depression as a result of relationship / marital issues, divorce, loss, job-related psychological / physical injury, or a motor vehicle accident in which you may have become physically or psychologically traumatized? If you are, I can assist in evaluating and psychologically treating these issues. I can help restore psychological wellness and improve the over-all quality of your life. I am proficient in the following languages: English, Arabic, Hebrew, and Farsi ( Persian).
![Photo of Tanya Ridaura-Valdez - Tanya Ridaura, LPCC, NCC | Bloom Family Therapy, LPCC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de047734-b835-4ea9-b459-49251a1e69ea/2/320x400.png)
Tanya Ridaura, LPCC, NCC | Bloom Family Therapy
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is passionate about joining you through this new journey into your best self. I truly believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and working together to overcome your challenges. My approach is tailored to help you regain control of your life and empower you to connect to your authentic self.
I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is passionate about joining you through this new journey into your best self. I truly believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and working together to overcome your challenges. My approach is tailored to help you regain control of your life and empower you to connect to your authentic self.
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![Photo of Linda Collins, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c240b64-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in an integration of mind and body approaches for working with personal and relationship change. This might include learning mindful awareness practices, self-compassion, stress-reduction skills and approaches for working with negative thoughts and emotional reactivity. These practices are very helpful for clients working with issues such as anxiety, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress symptoms, depression, relationship issues, stress-related physical problems and life transitions. I work with couples to support improved communication, conflict resolution, reduced reactivity and improved emotional connection.
I specialize in an integration of mind and body approaches for working with personal and relationship change. This might include learning mindful awareness practices, self-compassion, stress-reduction skills and approaches for working with negative thoughts and emotional reactivity. These practices are very helpful for clients working with issues such as anxiety, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress symptoms, depression, relationship issues, stress-related physical problems and life transitions. I work with couples to support improved communication, conflict resolution, reduced reactivity and improved emotional connection.
![Photo of Heather Swisher, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54f1bdad-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Swisher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92130 (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Heather Swisher and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I believe that therapy should be collaborative and organic. I specialize in treating adults with individual therapy and EMDR Therapy. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities and tailor treatment according to the needs of each client. It is my goal to ensure your comfort and to create a safe space filled with warmth, authenticity, and empathy for each person who walks through my door. As a therapist, I feel honored to be able to hear each person's story and join them on their journey towards healing and growth,
Welcome! My name is Heather Swisher and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I believe that therapy should be collaborative and organic. I specialize in treating adults with individual therapy and EMDR Therapy. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities and tailor treatment according to the needs of each client. It is my goal to ensure your comfort and to create a safe space filled with warmth, authenticity, and empathy for each person who walks through my door. As a therapist, I feel honored to be able to hear each person's story and join them on their journey towards healing and growth,
![Photo of Dr. Araceli López-Arenas, PhD, MPH, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6e2f129-6968-4d0a-bb3a-52a33ab90faf/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Araceli López-Arenas
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi and welcome! I want to congratulate you for taking the first step in recognizing that you may need support in the areas that you are struggling with. Step two is finding a provider that you feel comfortable working with. You are likely resilient AF, find that you are in need of support, and probably take care of others, but who takes care of you? This is a place to be taken care of when you care for the rest of the world. If you are motivated to make changes in your life, then let’s schedule a phone consult to determine if you would like to start working with me.
Hi and welcome! I want to congratulate you for taking the first step in recognizing that you may need support in the areas that you are struggling with. Step two is finding a provider that you feel comfortable working with. You are likely resilient AF, find that you are in need of support, and probably take care of others, but who takes care of you? This is a place to be taken care of when you care for the rest of the world. If you are motivated to make changes in your life, then let’s schedule a phone consult to determine if you would like to start working with me.
![Photo of Brenda C Franz - Heritage Psychology/Autism and ADHD assessment, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffa1336b-5e2a-46bd-8a0a-d6375a656313/2/320x400.png)
Heritage Psychology/Autism and ADHD assessment
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92102
Hello, my name is Dr. Brenda Franz, owner of Heritage Psychology. I offer comprehensive neuropsychological, psychological, and psychoeducational evaluations. I also offer sessions based off of the PEERS (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) program of UCLA for adolescents (ages 10-18) on an ongoing basis. At this time, I do not offer individual therapy. I am currently in network with Tricare (West Region) and Self-Pay only. Email is the best way to reach me. Please reach out with any questions, I would love to hear from you.
Hello, my name is Dr. Brenda Franz, owner of Heritage Psychology. I offer comprehensive neuropsychological, psychological, and psychoeducational evaluations. I also offer sessions based off of the PEERS (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) program of UCLA for adolescents (ages 10-18) on an ongoing basis. At this time, I do not offer individual therapy. I am currently in network with Tricare (West Region) and Self-Pay only. Email is the best way to reach me. Please reach out with any questions, I would love to hear from you.
![Photo of Kayla Whaley, LCSW, ADV-SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1ac87e3-89ad-4322-a741-d405d609fa89/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kayla Whaley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ADV-SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
Hi, my name is Kayla and my hope is to continue to support individuals in navigating the effects of daily stress and anxiety to more complex issues of depression and post traumatic stress disorder. Whether it's learning to understand our own mental health or just gain a better understanding of our own thoughts and feelings, I believe that each of us hold the ability to heal, and in doing so, find what helps us thrive. My approach to each session is to provide a safe space for clients to be at ease in the present and gain clarity while exploring, challenging and healing core wounds, values and behaviors.
Hi, my name is Kayla and my hope is to continue to support individuals in navigating the effects of daily stress and anxiety to more complex issues of depression and post traumatic stress disorder. Whether it's learning to understand our own mental health or just gain a better understanding of our own thoughts and feelings, I believe that each of us hold the ability to heal, and in doing so, find what helps us thrive. My approach to each session is to provide a safe space for clients to be at ease in the present and gain clarity while exploring, challenging and healing core wounds, values and behaviors.
![Photo of Helen Hayes Moses - Agape Counseling Center, Inc., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58f2d304-1b27-4336-ad6a-f4840b20002b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Agape Counseling Center, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92116
We all struggle with managing our lives during these difficult times. I am committed to providing the tools to increase and maintain functioning. Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, addiction? Is there unresolved trauma, grief, or a sense of not belonging? Do you need an empathetic ear to verbalize your feelings, thoughts, and emotions?
We all struggle with managing our lives during these difficult times. I am committed to providing the tools to increase and maintain functioning. Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, addiction? Is there unresolved trauma, grief, or a sense of not belonging? Do you need an empathetic ear to verbalize your feelings, thoughts, and emotions?
![Photo of Susan C Chudy - Susan Chudy, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5166f041-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Chudy, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
Waitlist for new clients
She/Her/Hers. Update 8/27/2024. Wait list is currently open for new clients! If you are looking for acceptance, understanding, and time to really focus on you, I think that we would be a great fit! I’m interested in getting you on board and establishing goals that we can both agree on-the alliance with my client is very important to me. With two decades of experience in treating OCD and related conditions, I am committed to helping individuals regain control over their lives. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, and I am passionate about working collaboratively with clients to create tailored treatment plans
She/Her/Hers. Update 8/27/2024. Wait list is currently open for new clients! If you are looking for acceptance, understanding, and time to really focus on you, I think that we would be a great fit! I’m interested in getting you on board and establishing goals that we can both agree on-the alliance with my client is very important to me. With two decades of experience in treating OCD and related conditions, I am committed to helping individuals regain control over their lives. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, and I am passionate about working collaboratively with clients to create tailored treatment plans
![Photo of Kristen Kirby, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37294787-ca0a-479e-8a5a-4ea2bd0327e4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Kristy Kirby, a Licensed Marriage; Family Therapist in CA. I primarily use Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I enjoy working with adults, and I specialize in Anxiety Disorders and Depression, as well as helping to improve self-esteem and relationships. I hope to provide a comfortable and safe environment where we can partner together. I range from client-centered to a more direct approach at times. I will often assign homework to give my clients something to think about or work on in between sessions.
Hi, I'm Kristy Kirby, a Licensed Marriage; Family Therapist in CA. I primarily use Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I enjoy working with adults, and I specialize in Anxiety Disorders and Depression, as well as helping to improve self-esteem and relationships. I hope to provide a comfortable and safe environment where we can partner together. I range from client-centered to a more direct approach at times. I will often assign homework to give my clients something to think about or work on in between sessions.
![Photo of Michael Bjornson, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd560ccb-dcf3-40cf-881e-3795f70b0159/1/320x400.png)
Hello, my name is Dr. Michael Bjornson. Most of my clients simply refer to me as Dr. "B". I have been a licensed clinical psychologist for over 26 years, with active licenses in California, Utah, and Wyoming. I am honored that you are considering me to help you in whatever life challenges have led you to seek help. Whether this may be your first-time seeking help or not, I recognize starting therapy is a big decision requiring courage and trust in another human being, to be there for you in a professional, caring capacity, to facilitate and guide you through important and difficult concerns.
Hello, my name is Dr. Michael Bjornson. Most of my clients simply refer to me as Dr. "B". I have been a licensed clinical psychologist for over 26 years, with active licenses in California, Utah, and Wyoming. I am honored that you are considering me to help you in whatever life challenges have led you to seek help. Whether this may be your first-time seeking help or not, I recognize starting therapy is a big decision requiring courage and trust in another human being, to be there for you in a professional, caring capacity, to facilitate and guide you through important and difficult concerns.
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 |
65% | Relationship Issues |
64% | Trauma and PTSD |
62% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
82% | Aetna |
76% | Cigna and Evernorth |
70% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in San Diego, CA see their clients
52% | In Person and Online | |
48% | 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.