Therapists in Berkeley, CA
![Photo of Phoenix Song, MFT, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97cfe3b3-f3b0-4537-9bb0-189cfc9c66f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
As an LGBTQIA empath, intuitive, or artist, you experience this world in a deeper, more complex, intuitive way - including painful experiences of trauma. With so much pain in the world, it's hard to care for your own feelings and needs, let alone heal from your experiences of trauma. I specialize in supporting LGBTQIA empaths, artists, and magic makers to heal from the trauma of oppression, abuse, and sexual violence and reclaim their power. To embrace their own sacred needs and gifts. And to connect with the power of QT ancestors and community, ecospirituality, creativity, joy, and nourished activism.
As an LGBTQIA empath, intuitive, or artist, you experience this world in a deeper, more complex, intuitive way - including painful experiences of trauma. With so much pain in the world, it's hard to care for your own feelings and needs, let alone heal from your experiences of trauma. I specialize in supporting LGBTQIA empaths, artists, and magic makers to heal from the trauma of oppression, abuse, and sexual violence and reclaim their power. To embrace their own sacred needs and gifts. And to connect with the power of QT ancestors and community, ecospirituality, creativity, joy, and nourished activism.
![Photo of Maria Collins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/694ef26f-7ce7-4e56-b182-e02649e6f977/1/320x400.jpeg)
We have been living through challenging times and in my work I have witnessed increased anxiety and depression in children, teens and adults of all ages. Family life and raising children is challenging in the best of times. For many, it is an important time for self-care and to increase our support systems for ourselves and our loved ones. I have over 20 years experience as a psychotherapist and I specialize in supporting school aged children, teens and families in addressing a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, loss, family transitions, and peer/family relationships.
We have been living through challenging times and in my work I have witnessed increased anxiety and depression in children, teens and adults of all ages. Family life and raising children is challenging in the best of times. For many, it is an important time for self-care and to increase our support systems for ourselves and our loved ones. I have over 20 years experience as a psychotherapist and I specialize in supporting school aged children, teens and families in addressing a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, loss, family transitions, and peer/family relationships.
![Photo of Gillian Fynn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/958b80eb-7102-423a-b459-db8fcd9633f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you are a parent I have specialized training to help build your confidence as a parent including play therapy for young children. We all need support during difficult times. If you have a history of trauma leaving you feeling overwhelmed or totally stressed, there are several treatments that can stop the past having such an impact on you now. Perhaps you grew up in a dysfunctional family and wonder "what's normal, what's healthy?" Even if you don't have major problems, talking through challenges and gaining perspective is important. I will meet in person under strict COVID guidelines.
If you are a parent I have specialized training to help build your confidence as a parent including play therapy for young children. We all need support during difficult times. If you have a history of trauma leaving you feeling overwhelmed or totally stressed, there are several treatments that can stop the past having such an impact on you now. Perhaps you grew up in a dysfunctional family and wonder "what's normal, what's healthy?" Even if you don't have major problems, talking through challenges and gaining perspective is important. I will meet in person under strict COVID guidelines.
![Photo of Ritu Sood - Ritu Sood - Center For Mindful Psychotherapy, AMFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ff910c9-e58d-481f-8485-bf325d48a2ed/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ritu Sood - Center For Mindful Psychotherapy
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
I offer a safe and compassionate space for individuals and couples in their healing process. Life can get difficult sometimes as we try to juggle the demands of the external world while finding internal balance and harmony. We can carry the pain inflicted on us due to circumstances, or by others. And sometimes it is just a feeling of wanting something more from life than what seems feasible. These experiences can leave us feeling isolated and disconnected from our sense of aliveness, joy and creativity. I support my clients on their journey towards creating a more satisfying life that feels wholesome both internally and externally.
I offer a safe and compassionate space for individuals and couples in their healing process. Life can get difficult sometimes as we try to juggle the demands of the external world while finding internal balance and harmony. We can carry the pain inflicted on us due to circumstances, or by others. And sometimes it is just a feeling of wanting something more from life than what seems feasible. These experiences can leave us feeling isolated and disconnected from our sense of aliveness, joy and creativity. I support my clients on their journey towards creating a more satisfying life that feels wholesome both internally and externally.
![Photo of Katja Mohr, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4943b201-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you worried about your child? Not sure if you are doing too much or too little on your kid’s behalf? Maybe you yourself got lost in a maze of work, school and carpools. Or your family struggles to connect.
Are you worried about your child? Not sure if you are doing too much or too little on your kid’s behalf? Maybe you yourself got lost in a maze of work, school and carpools. Or your family struggles to connect.
![Photo of Stephanie McCarty, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1fa8d3d-fe40-40a2-9c64-f645efa505c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie McCarty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704 (Online Only)
I have worked in health and human services in different parts of California for the past 25 years. I have specifically worked with people who need support around housing and food insecurity, opioid use or dependency, as well as child welfare and grief or loss. I have a good understanding of social services and mental health resources in the San Francisco Bay Area, especially Contra Costa County. I have been providing virtual therapy since January 2021.
I have worked in health and human services in different parts of California for the past 25 years. I have specifically worked with people who need support around housing and food insecurity, opioid use or dependency, as well as child welfare and grief or loss. I have a good understanding of social services and mental health resources in the San Francisco Bay Area, especially Contra Costa County. I have been providing virtual therapy since January 2021.
![Photo of Sonja Baumer, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f3173e8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 10 years of clinical experience in outpatient clinics, schools, private practice, and humanitarian organizations. My practice has been informed by clinical training and extensive academic background in developmental psychology. It also incorporates my life experience in coping with challenges of immigration, parenthood, career transitions and aging. I believe that healing entails personal growth. You may need to develop a new awareness, an insight, or a specific coping skill to resolve your problem. I provide a safe space for you to explore what is that you need in order to live a more productive and enjoyable life.
I have over 10 years of clinical experience in outpatient clinics, schools, private practice, and humanitarian organizations. My practice has been informed by clinical training and extensive academic background in developmental psychology. It also incorporates my life experience in coping with challenges of immigration, parenthood, career transitions and aging. I believe that healing entails personal growth. You may need to develop a new awareness, an insight, or a specific coping skill to resolve your problem. I provide a safe space for you to explore what is that you need in order to live a more productive and enjoyable life.
![Photo of Nneka Wooten, LCSW, MPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8a45a8b-3ef9-4768-a88a-0e26eb6d7408/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nneka Wooten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94702 (Online Only)
Hello! If you are here you are contemplating taking the first step towards your journey of healing! Life continues to happen and we can't control that but we can learn to can control how we respond. With my therapeutic support you will develop the tools needed to gain acceptance, use your voice and reclaim your power. I can help you arrange the pieces of your puzzle in a way that creates a healing space to learn to manage your triggers, stand in your truth and live the life you deserve. I am passionate about providing a safe, nonjudgmental space to practice this work.
Hello! If you are here you are contemplating taking the first step towards your journey of healing! Life continues to happen and we can't control that but we can learn to can control how we respond. With my therapeutic support you will develop the tools needed to gain acceptance, use your voice and reclaim your power. I can help you arrange the pieces of your puzzle in a way that creates a healing space to learn to manage your triggers, stand in your truth and live the life you deserve. I am passionate about providing a safe, nonjudgmental space to practice this work.
![Photo of Eileen Van Tyne, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa6ba0e3-927e-428c-a427-cbaddfc93dc5/1/320x400.jpeg)
We are wired to connect, but sometimes our ways of connecting feel counterproductive, even painful. I specialize in couples therapy, relationship therapy and trauma therapy. I support clients who are looking to heal their relationships, past or present. This can be healing themselves from trauma, finding ease and satisfaction in current relationships, or to explore new ways of being in relationship. I offer a trauma-informed approach to work with individuals, families and couples, to help them explore patterns that don't work, to process loss and grief, and to find authentic connection.
We are wired to connect, but sometimes our ways of connecting feel counterproductive, even painful. I specialize in couples therapy, relationship therapy and trauma therapy. I support clients who are looking to heal their relationships, past or present. This can be healing themselves from trauma, finding ease and satisfaction in current relationships, or to explore new ways of being in relationship. I offer a trauma-informed approach to work with individuals, families and couples, to help them explore patterns that don't work, to process loss and grief, and to find authentic connection.
![Photo of Cody Dunitz, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d659572c-6a59-4090-9a0c-ad1b9451b679/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cody Dunitz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705 (Online Only)
There are many ways to find healing. I use an integrative approach that draws from various modalities such as Gestalt, Nonviolent Communication, mindfulness, somatic healing, and attachment-based therapies. Using a compassionate and collaborative style, I seek to help you work through challenges that are affecting your relationships and the life you want to live. Humor and play can also have wonderful healing benefits, and I often find ways, when appropriate, to fold them into our sessions. Exploring the connection between the mind and the body is at the foundation of the work we will do together.
There are many ways to find healing. I use an integrative approach that draws from various modalities such as Gestalt, Nonviolent Communication, mindfulness, somatic healing, and attachment-based therapies. Using a compassionate and collaborative style, I seek to help you work through challenges that are affecting your relationships and the life you want to live. Humor and play can also have wonderful healing benefits, and I often find ways, when appropriate, to fold them into our sessions. Exploring the connection between the mind and the body is at the foundation of the work we will do together.
![Photo of Mary Ann Leff, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4581877e-b407-4a77-8a19-ce2a24647168/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have been in practice for more than 30 years, seeing adults, older adolescents and couples presenting with a range of issues. My clients deal with transitions in life, school, work and relationships; they may need healing from past abuse or current loss; they may be facing existential, identity or situational crises. I engage actively with my clients and am influenced by a social/feminist perspective, common sense and a good sense of humor.
I have been in practice for more than 30 years, seeing adults, older adolescents and couples presenting with a range of issues. My clients deal with transitions in life, school, work and relationships; they may need healing from past abuse or current loss; they may be facing existential, identity or situational crises. I engage actively with my clients and am influenced by a social/feminist perspective, common sense and a good sense of humor.
15 Second Videos
Shelly Lev-Er
Anisha Mauze
Stephanie Wise
Sarah Brinkman
Tiffany Cotter
Bill Roller
Yi Zhao Martins
Rose Markotic
Evergreen Counseling
Monica Baines
Tamara Thebert
Jon Platania
Brie Robertori
Terra Brigando
Ajay Deven Dave
Stephen Sperber
Ceely Counseling
Suzie Shihshin Wu
Alissa Greenberg
Ronny Nevo
Olina Rule
Rosanna Franklin
Camara Meri Rajabari
Juliane Kowski
Katie Mason
Lindsey Antin
Dr. Douglas Vakoch - Green Psychotherapy, PC
Sally Covington
Kerry McKee
Amy Rands
Bay Area Personal Counseling Therapies
Cecilia Ding; Healing Stressed Out Overachievers
Troy Piwowarski
Noah Eastman
Amanda Martin LMFT Psychotherapy
Elizabeth Anne Nielsen
Ali Miller
Tim Holtzman
Catherine Pfister
Luis Alberto Alvarado
Sarah Ross
Life by Design Therapy
Alexandra A Phillippe
Tiana Brawley
Angela Luna J.d. Lmft
Josh Kirsch
Caroline Vetter
Ryan Cole
Liz Michaud
Carol Zeitlin
![Photo of Eve Aceves, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4614d66b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Eve Aceves
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94707 (Online Only)
If you need relief from depression, anxiety, and the effects of early traumatic loss, parental neglect, abuse, or mental illness, I could be the right therapist for you. I've been helping clients with these issues, as a licensed therapist, since 2011. I'm sensitive to who you are as a unique individual and what you need at this time of your life, whether that's brief or deep, intensive work. I'll support you in trusting and valuing yourself as you are, and, at the same time, encourage you to take healthy risks and stretch gently beyond your comfort zone. My approach is warm, compassionate, and collaborative.
If you need relief from depression, anxiety, and the effects of early traumatic loss, parental neglect, abuse, or mental illness, I could be the right therapist for you. I've been helping clients with these issues, as a licensed therapist, since 2011. I'm sensitive to who you are as a unique individual and what you need at this time of your life, whether that's brief or deep, intensive work. I'll support you in trusting and valuing yourself as you are, and, at the same time, encourage you to take healthy risks and stretch gently beyond your comfort zone. My approach is warm, compassionate, and collaborative.
![Photo of Mona Perlman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2529c4e9-541e-4666-8588-a016e79459cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mona Perlman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with adults of all ages. Since receiving my Master’s from Columbia University, I’ve been trained in various therapeutic models and utilize an integrative and client-centered approach. For the past several years my training is in the model of Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy. My relational approach helps to create a safe space to undo aloneness and bring solace to pain. As a compassionate guide, together we will work on your therapeutic journey to help you manage and move through difficult emotions, get unstuck from self-defeating patterns and regain access to your innate strengths.
I have extensive experience working with adults of all ages. Since receiving my Master’s from Columbia University, I’ve been trained in various therapeutic models and utilize an integrative and client-centered approach. For the past several years my training is in the model of Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy. My relational approach helps to create a safe space to undo aloneness and bring solace to pain. As a compassionate guide, together we will work on your therapeutic journey to help you manage and move through difficult emotions, get unstuck from self-defeating patterns and regain access to your innate strengths.
![Photo of Shelly Lev-Er, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da80c683-e1f1-4f51-ad48-a271e7bcc111/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maybe you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or difficulty in relationships. Maybe past traumas are getting in your way, or you are feeling stuck in perfectionism and self-doubt. Therapy is a process of self-exploration, a journey of getting to know all the different parts of you, and learning to bring curiosity and compassion to even the hardest places. Together, we'll get curious about what's happening for you, bringing more of your experience into conscious awareness so that there can be more choice and possibility, as well as more resiliency in navigating life's inevitable challenges.
Maybe you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or difficulty in relationships. Maybe past traumas are getting in your way, or you are feeling stuck in perfectionism and self-doubt. Therapy is a process of self-exploration, a journey of getting to know all the different parts of you, and learning to bring curiosity and compassion to even the hardest places. Together, we'll get curious about what's happening for you, bringing more of your experience into conscious awareness so that there can be more choice and possibility, as well as more resiliency in navigating life's inevitable challenges.
![Photo of Anisha Mauze, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45136303-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anisha Mauze
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I’m not beating around the bush here: things are pretty messed up right now. And when it feels like the world is on fire, of course you’re going to be freaking out. Maybe your life seemed fine until recently, and maybe you’ve been struggling longer than you can remember. Either way, I am here to help. I work with all ages, genders, sexualities, racial backgrounds, cultures, and subcultures. From work stress to identity crises, communication problems to childhood trauma, all issues need space to breathe, and a big part of that is finding a therapist you can be real with.
I’m not beating around the bush here: things are pretty messed up right now. And when it feels like the world is on fire, of course you’re going to be freaking out. Maybe your life seemed fine until recently, and maybe you’ve been struggling longer than you can remember. Either way, I am here to help. I work with all ages, genders, sexualities, racial backgrounds, cultures, and subcultures. From work stress to identity crises, communication problems to childhood trauma, all issues need space to breathe, and a big part of that is finding a therapist you can be real with.
![Photo of Stephanie Wise, MSCP, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71c1f047-191c-46a9-b9a2-8113a5fe4a87/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Wise
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSCP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704 (Online Only)
When is the last time things felt light and playful and fun with your partner? Where it felt like you guys were trying to understand each other and serious talks meant feeling closer instead of ending up in a fight? Now it seems like even small stupid things turn into ugly fights... it's feeling like a losing battle to try and connect. And sex? Things are way too stressful in life and between the two of you for that to feel as easy as it once did. If you feel like you can't get on the same page with your partner, but you want to reconnect and feel close again, you want to feel enthusiastic about being together, reach out today!
When is the last time things felt light and playful and fun with your partner? Where it felt like you guys were trying to understand each other and serious talks meant feeling closer instead of ending up in a fight? Now it seems like even small stupid things turn into ugly fights... it's feeling like a losing battle to try and connect. And sex? Things are way too stressful in life and between the two of you for that to feel as easy as it once did. If you feel like you can't get on the same page with your partner, but you want to reconnect and feel close again, you want to feel enthusiastic about being together, reach out today!
![Photo of Olivia White, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a0fbd1c-3832-4324-9587-eacb74ad623e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olivia White
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
Are you struggling with trauma that is affecting your daily life, relationships and health? Childhood trauma and acute trauma can make us feel unsafe in our bodies. The anxiety, numbness and difficulty keeping relationships that arise downstream of the trauma can leave you feeling stuck and isolated. You know you want to feel more fully alive and embodied and joyful but aren't sure how to get there. I am passionate about helping people recover from the trauma that is blocking the full spectrum of their aliveness. Together we can help you heal the trauma that is keeping you stuck in the past.
Are you struggling with trauma that is affecting your daily life, relationships and health? Childhood trauma and acute trauma can make us feel unsafe in our bodies. The anxiety, numbness and difficulty keeping relationships that arise downstream of the trauma can leave you feeling stuck and isolated. You know you want to feel more fully alive and embodied and joyful but aren't sure how to get there. I am passionate about helping people recover from the trauma that is blocking the full spectrum of their aliveness. Together we can help you heal the trauma that is keeping you stuck in the past.
![Photo of Caroline McDowell, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4399a61b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline McDowell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
Are you having the same conflict over and over again with your partner, adolescent daughter, parent, friend, or boss? Are you feeling ambivalent about having a child or do you already have a child and feeling stuck with your parenting skills? Are you and your partner struggling with infertility issues? Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or wanting to revamp your life? If any of these questions resonate with you then I may be able to help you. I have successfully worked with people dealing with similar life challenges; I hope to have the chance to work with you too.
Are you having the same conflict over and over again with your partner, adolescent daughter, parent, friend, or boss? Are you feeling ambivalent about having a child or do you already have a child and feeling stuck with your parenting skills? Are you and your partner struggling with infertility issues? Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or wanting to revamp your life? If any of these questions resonate with you then I may be able to help you. I have successfully worked with people dealing with similar life challenges; I hope to have the chance to work with you too.
![Photo of Marcus Davis, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8895bfba-1f13-4bfc-a825-40125ae5596b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marcus uses a strength-based approach to therapy, and understands that everyone, including those seeking relationship counseling, deserve a place to focus on what's important to them. He believes the human spirit has an astounding capacity for resilience against seemingly unbeatable odds. He meets the client where they are and helps build upon their existing skills to create a life they are excited about. In addition to couples work, Marcus’s background includes working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities, youth in residential housing settings, high schools, and unhoused families in crisis.
Marcus uses a strength-based approach to therapy, and understands that everyone, including those seeking relationship counseling, deserve a place to focus on what's important to them. He believes the human spirit has an astounding capacity for resilience against seemingly unbeatable odds. He meets the client where they are and helps build upon their existing skills to create a life they are excited about. In addition to couples work, Marcus’s background includes working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities, youth in residential housing settings, high schools, and unhoused families in crisis.
![Photo of Margaret Brako, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8a8ce62-d1e3-4739-ad23-a16fce05b6c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
I help people as they’re making changes in their life, big and small. A significant factor in making a change is our relationship to ourselves. Unfortunately, a build-up of traumatizing or painful experiences can lead us to constantly question our abilities and self-worth. We may struggle with decision-making, seal away parts of our identity, or find ourselves trapped in cycles of anxiety and self-loathing. Of course, if we don't trust there's a safe home to come back to, trying something new or different feels very out of reach.
I help people as they’re making changes in their life, big and small. A significant factor in making a change is our relationship to ourselves. Unfortunately, a build-up of traumatizing or painful experiences can lead us to constantly question our abilities and self-worth. We may struggle with decision-making, seal away parts of our identity, or find ourselves trapped in cycles of anxiety and self-loathing. Of course, if we don't trust there's a safe home to come back to, trying something new or different feels very out of reach.
See more therapy options for Berkeley
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Berkeley, CA
1,000+
Average cost per session
$195
Therapists in Berkeley, CA who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
83% | Relationship Issues |
74% | Self Esteem |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Grief |
67% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
53% | Aetna |
44% | Cigna and Evernorth |
37% | Other |
How Therapists in Berkeley, CA see their clients
64% | In Person and Online | |
36% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
22% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Berkeley?
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.