Therapists in Palo Alto, CA
![Photo of Elizabeth Rosenfeld, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c176364-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you are having a hard time sorting things out for yourself or communicating with your partner, coworkers or family members, I believe I can help you feel better and improve your relationships. Extensive training and experience in Clinical Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy has given me the expertise to conduct psychotherapy both at an individual and at a relational level. Integrating the theoretical orientations most appropriate for solving particular issues, I generally achieve good results within a reasonably short time. I also specialize in issues of acculturation and cross-cultural interactions, both at work and in interpersonal relationships.
Whether you are having a hard time sorting things out for yourself or communicating with your partner, coworkers or family members, I believe I can help you feel better and improve your relationships. Extensive training and experience in Clinical Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy has given me the expertise to conduct psychotherapy both at an individual and at a relational level. Integrating the theoretical orientations most appropriate for solving particular issues, I generally achieve good results within a reasonably short time. I also specialize in issues of acculturation and cross-cultural interactions, both at work and in interpersonal relationships.
![Photo of Peter Scheufele, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51d1acea-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with anxiety, depression, stress? I am available to help. I am a licensed psychologist with over 10 years of experience providing care for adults. I will assist you with resolving your current distress with cognitive and behavioral techniques, that may also help reduce problems in the future. I also tailor therapy to best suit the individual needs of each client I work with. I meet with clients in-person or remotely according to your preference.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, stress? I am available to help. I am a licensed psychologist with over 10 years of experience providing care for adults. I will assist you with resolving your current distress with cognitive and behavioral techniques, that may also help reduce problems in the future. I also tailor therapy to best suit the individual needs of each client I work with. I meet with clients in-person or remotely according to your preference.
![Photo of Lisa Macedo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/918c37b9-7161-40aa-895a-9f831009b1d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Is excessive worry or anxiety limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a happier life? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, public speaking fears, OCD, panic, excessive worry and depression is our primary focus. Visit us at www.paloaltotherapy.com. By using proven therapy methods (We are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, and reachable goals. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy and help you get results to improve your emotions and your life. By doing this we can help rather quickly. Call to schedule a free phone consultation.
Is excessive worry or anxiety limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a happier life? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, public speaking fears, OCD, panic, excessive worry and depression is our primary focus. Visit us at www.paloaltotherapy.com. By using proven therapy methods (We are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, and reachable goals. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy and help you get results to improve your emotions and your life. By doing this we can help rather quickly. Call to schedule a free phone consultation.
![Photo of Mary Ellen Lemieux - Mary Ellen Lemieux, JD, LCSW, JD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4cfd02d-f8b2-4877-91f0-5026b70f110a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Ellen Lemieux, JD, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94301
I enjoy working with adults and families who desire change, but aren't sure how to make it happen. For some, it means a change in relationship dynamics or parenting style. For others, it means collaborating on complicated life issues, such as difficult teenagers, substance abuse, or co-parenting. If you are looking to leave a long marriage, I can help you navigate that process. I also enjoy working with individuals in their 20's and 30's trying to figure out this thing called adulting. I split my time between Steamboat Springs,CO and northern California, and am licensed to see clients in California, Colorado and Utah.
I enjoy working with adults and families who desire change, but aren't sure how to make it happen. For some, it means a change in relationship dynamics or parenting style. For others, it means collaborating on complicated life issues, such as difficult teenagers, substance abuse, or co-parenting. If you are looking to leave a long marriage, I can help you navigate that process. I also enjoy working with individuals in their 20's and 30's trying to figure out this thing called adulting. I split my time between Steamboat Springs,CO and northern California, and am licensed to see clients in California, Colorado and Utah.
![Photo of Anabel Rodriguez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec4d8c1d-d7f6-48fa-bcff-5898c27f2712/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anabel Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303 (Online Only)
I entered the field of social work to help heal. At some point in life, everyone benefits from emotional support. My experience consists of helping individuals cope with issues of abuse, trauma, stressors, emotional challenges, or life transitions. Searching for emotional support or guidance can be an overwhelming, yet a courageous first step to the healing process. I have over 20 years of experience treating high-risk individuals. I held various positions in the public and nonprofit sectors that include schools, medical facilities, and community-based organizations.
I entered the field of social work to help heal. At some point in life, everyone benefits from emotional support. My experience consists of helping individuals cope with issues of abuse, trauma, stressors, emotional challenges, or life transitions. Searching for emotional support or guidance can be an overwhelming, yet a courageous first step to the healing process. I have over 20 years of experience treating high-risk individuals. I held various positions in the public and nonprofit sectors that include schools, medical facilities, and community-based organizations.
![Photo of Anh D Weber, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50b26c3b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My particular expertise and interest is in working with survivors of trauma, abuse and victimization. Having survived trauma, abuse and victimization can lead to a variety of outcomes. Some people survive trauma with no problems at all, while other people develop anxiety, depression, substance use, personality or relationship issues. Various traumatic events, such as parental divorce or substance abuse, are very common even in middle class populations and have often both physical and psychological effects many years after the experienced trauma.
My particular expertise and interest is in working with survivors of trauma, abuse and victimization. Having survived trauma, abuse and victimization can lead to a variety of outcomes. Some people survive trauma with no problems at all, while other people develop anxiety, depression, substance use, personality or relationship issues. Various traumatic events, such as parental divorce or substance abuse, are very common even in middle class populations and have often both physical and psychological effects many years after the experienced trauma.
![Photo of Melanie Maddox, ASW, EMDR](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c73fbd1-a66e-4e28-b642-0cc77b4f0692/2/320x400.png)
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
![Photo of Mary A Brayton, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c353a02-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
How Can I Help You?
...by being a therapist you feel comfortable talking to. If you are having trouble relaxing, are worried about a loved one,are facing divorce or major illness, are feeling irritable, confused, depressed,lonely, are concerned about your teen taking risks or a child hating school talking with me can help. Talking can give you objective perspective, help you develop coping skills, lessen the isolation that makes people feel"crazy" and reduce inner turmoil that can lead to physical ailments. We work together to identify and build on your current personal strengths in this healing process.
How Can I Help You?
...by being a therapist you feel comfortable talking to. If you are having trouble relaxing, are worried about a loved one,are facing divorce or major illness, are feeling irritable, confused, depressed,lonely, are concerned about your teen taking risks or a child hating school talking with me can help. Talking can give you objective perspective, help you develop coping skills, lessen the isolation that makes people feel"crazy" and reduce inner turmoil that can lead to physical ailments. We work together to identify and build on your current personal strengths in this healing process.
![Photo of Victoria Coleman - Serenity Psychotherapy LLC, LPCC, LMFT, LCSW, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b224f9a7-74d5-4a60-a787-3eb1d56ec237/1/320x400.jpeg)
Serenity Psychotherapy LLC
Counselor, LPCC, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301 (Online Only)
Dr. Victoria Coleman: Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of my approach. I have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more My approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals.
Dr. Victoria Coleman: Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of my approach. I have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more My approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals.
![Photo of Maryke Van Zyl, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e377c9b-04db-4f90-833f-d9d1458d9828/2/320x400.jpeg)
We all have moments in our lives when we need a little support. If you are here, you may be in that moment now - feeling stuck or overwhelmed in some way. I offer individuals and couples a place to slow down, take a breath and explore what’s going on and where you’d like to go. I use treatment approaches that are supported by research, while tailoring treatment to your unique needs. To help inform our work together, I provide comprehensive psychological evaluations.
We all have moments in our lives when we need a little support. If you are here, you may be in that moment now - feeling stuck or overwhelmed in some way. I offer individuals and couples a place to slow down, take a breath and explore what’s going on and where you’d like to go. I use treatment approaches that are supported by research, while tailoring treatment to your unique needs. To help inform our work together, I provide comprehensive psychological evaluations.
![Photo of Iris Hsiao-Jung Lin, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44fb1c5c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Iris Hsiao-Jung Lin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94306 (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experiences and trainings in various clinical settings. I work with individuals across the lifespan struggles from normal life issues, stress, and relationship difficulties to more serious conditions and psychological problems. While working with clients, I take an integrative and relational approach and incorporates various principles and modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy(CBT), psychodynamic approach, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness-based treatment. I believe in resilience and the power of insights, and use strength-based approach to help my clients draw internal and external resources to reach a meaningful life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experiences and trainings in various clinical settings. I work with individuals across the lifespan struggles from normal life issues, stress, and relationship difficulties to more serious conditions and psychological problems. While working with clients, I take an integrative and relational approach and incorporates various principles and modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy(CBT), psychodynamic approach, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness-based treatment. I believe in resilience and the power of insights, and use strength-based approach to help my clients draw internal and external resources to reach a meaningful life.
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![Photo of Sheila Rivera-Cardinelli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82b9d23f-f8af-4290-b89e-a85a4a013634/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila Rivera-Cardinelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303 (Online Only)
Sometimes life’s events can be overwhelming, making everyday activities and incidents even more difficult to handle. These experiences can lead to sadness, anxiety, insecurity, feelings of isolation, and even an immense feeling of loss or being lost. It is in these moments that having a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space to talk to someone can be the most helpful. As a therapist, I provide a space where we can work collaboratively to reflect and gain insight on these cycles, where they come from and how they impact our choices and behaviors to make healthy and sustainable changes in our lives.
Sometimes life’s events can be overwhelming, making everyday activities and incidents even more difficult to handle. These experiences can lead to sadness, anxiety, insecurity, feelings of isolation, and even an immense feeling of loss or being lost. It is in these moments that having a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space to talk to someone can be the most helpful. As a therapist, I provide a space where we can work collaboratively to reflect and gain insight on these cycles, where they come from and how they impact our choices and behaviors to make healthy and sustainable changes in our lives.
![Photo of Susanne Ebert-Khosla, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/489e401c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life experiences shape who we are and influence how we see the world and people around us. Certain experiences can get in the way of us fulfilling our deepest longings, hopes and dreams, and of being the authentic, confident and happy person we always wanted to be. I work with a culturally diverse population of individuals and couples who may be struggling with interpersonal conflict, anxiety, anger, depression, panic, low self-esteem, procrastination, unexplained somatic symptoms, trauma, grief or loss. I am here to help you resolve the challenges that keep you stuck and make your life so miserable.
Life experiences shape who we are and influence how we see the world and people around us. Certain experiences can get in the way of us fulfilling our deepest longings, hopes and dreams, and of being the authentic, confident and happy person we always wanted to be. I work with a culturally diverse population of individuals and couples who may be struggling with interpersonal conflict, anxiety, anger, depression, panic, low self-esteem, procrastination, unexplained somatic symptoms, trauma, grief or loss. I am here to help you resolve the challenges that keep you stuck and make your life so miserable.
![Photo of Dr. Dorothy Pang, PhD, NCSP, LSSP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ea6e027-388d-4c3f-93bd-c98927c154da/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Dorothy Pang
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP, LSSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94306 (Online Only)
Life often brings moments of overwhelm, dissatisfaction, and uncertainty, making us feel unsure of how to move forward. You may be frustrated with how you perceive yourself, relate to your body and food, respond to seemingly unchangeable interpersonal dynamics, or cope with stressors. Having a warm, trusted person who is dedicated to provide a safe space to help you heal and grow can make a world of difference. I'm here to help you experience compassion for how you've tried to survive unmet needs, challenge unhelpful thoughts, develop more effective coping tools, and empower you to live aligned with your values.
Life often brings moments of overwhelm, dissatisfaction, and uncertainty, making us feel unsure of how to move forward. You may be frustrated with how you perceive yourself, relate to your body and food, respond to seemingly unchangeable interpersonal dynamics, or cope with stressors. Having a warm, trusted person who is dedicated to provide a safe space to help you heal and grow can make a world of difference. I'm here to help you experience compassion for how you've tried to survive unmet needs, challenge unhelpful thoughts, develop more effective coping tools, and empower you to live aligned with your values.
![Photo of Sharda McPherson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5aecae2-b62b-4a9e-8466-abeaeb837b4e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hey there, My name is Sharda (Shar-day) McPherson. I use the pronouns she/her and hers. I am a California Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I enjoy helping clients navigate through depression, anxiety, and stress. I like to build on the strengths that you already possess; While helping you understand yourself a little better to reach your goals. The common approaches I use are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. I like to create a safe, comforting, and inviting environment during my client's sessions. I like clients to feel that they are able to be their authentic selves.
Hey there, My name is Sharda (Shar-day) McPherson. I use the pronouns she/her and hers. I am a California Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I enjoy helping clients navigate through depression, anxiety, and stress. I like to build on the strengths that you already possess; While helping you understand yourself a little better to reach your goals. The common approaches I use are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. I like to create a safe, comforting, and inviting environment during my client's sessions. I like clients to feel that they are able to be their authentic selves.
![Photo of Nina M Poletika, LMFT, CT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c491fa0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Do you have a loved one with Alzheimer's or related dementia and are feeling overwhelmed? You are not alone. I specialize in helping caregivers (adult children or spouses) with their complex emotional reactions, ongoing loss & grief, and finding better ways to cope. Having a difficult time when trying to navigate cognitive decline is central to being a helping family member. Professionally, I am experienced and well trained. Personally, I have been on a similar journey with my own mother who had dementia for 10 years.
Do you have a loved one with Alzheimer's or related dementia and are feeling overwhelmed? You are not alone. I specialize in helping caregivers (adult children or spouses) with their complex emotional reactions, ongoing loss & grief, and finding better ways to cope. Having a difficult time when trying to navigate cognitive decline is central to being a helping family member. Professionally, I am experienced and well trained. Personally, I have been on a similar journey with my own mother who had dementia for 10 years.
![Photo of Danielle Sheppard - Open Doors Therapy, MS, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b946dcc2-6fcb-4712-bb8c-c699fba9d101/2/320x400.jpeg)
Open Doors Therapy
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306 (Online Only)
I specialize in strengths based and solution-focused approaches, mindfulness and narrative therapy, while utilizing a person-centered approach to meet the needs of each individual and the unique parts of themselves. I recognize every person is different in terms of goals, aspirations, and the pursuit of happiness, and that everyone’s path to peace of mind is different. I strive to help each client realize their strengths, values, and ultimate potential. I particularly appreciate and enjoy when individuals begin to see and express the strengths they often overlook in themselves, and finds it an honor to be witness to their journey.
I specialize in strengths based and solution-focused approaches, mindfulness and narrative therapy, while utilizing a person-centered approach to meet the needs of each individual and the unique parts of themselves. I recognize every person is different in terms of goals, aspirations, and the pursuit of happiness, and that everyone’s path to peace of mind is different. I strive to help each client realize their strengths, values, and ultimate potential. I particularly appreciate and enjoy when individuals begin to see and express the strengths they often overlook in themselves, and finds it an honor to be witness to their journey.
![Photo of Madhur Kulkarni, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/405b1bd9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Madhur Kulkarni
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am committed to helping you get unstuck and create a more fulfilling life. I will help you to overcome obstacles, build on your unique strengths, and teach you new skills needed for long-term change. My approach integrates a warm, thoughtful, and direct style with well-researched, therapeutic techniques. I have a strong background in treating trauma/posttraumatic stress (e.g., family/community violence, unexpected deaths, war) and substance use/addiction.
I am committed to helping you get unstuck and create a more fulfilling life. I will help you to overcome obstacles, build on your unique strengths, and teach you new skills needed for long-term change. My approach integrates a warm, thoughtful, and direct style with well-researched, therapeutic techniques. I have a strong background in treating trauma/posttraumatic stress (e.g., family/community violence, unexpected deaths, war) and substance use/addiction.
![Photo of Rachna Rangan, PsyD, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/461378fb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist and credentialed as a health service psychologist with extensive experiences in providing a wide range of psychotherapy services. Clients I work with are often individuals working through transition be it the one from their past, current or one that is upcoming. Some of these include life events involving jobs/career, relationships, medical diagnosis, phases in life, parenthood and other problems of living. It can sometimes be intimidating to consider therapy, and I understand that. I invite you to have an complementary introductory conversation, where we can explore if therapy could be helpful for you.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist and credentialed as a health service psychologist with extensive experiences in providing a wide range of psychotherapy services. Clients I work with are often individuals working through transition be it the one from their past, current or one that is upcoming. Some of these include life events involving jobs/career, relationships, medical diagnosis, phases in life, parenthood and other problems of living. It can sometimes be intimidating to consider therapy, and I understand that. I invite you to have an complementary introductory conversation, where we can explore if therapy could be helpful for you.
![Photo of Rosemary Selby, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ccc3e58-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for relief from anxiety, depression, or relationship problems? Want to move to a whole new plane of interpersonal and emotional functioning? I work interactively with clients blending cognitive therapy and attention to the client's past. Helping a client understand and change what is blocking his/her greater enjoyment of life is my specialty.
Are you looking for relief from anxiety, depression, or relationship problems? Want to move to a whole new plane of interpersonal and emotional functioning? I work interactively with clients blending cognitive therapy and attention to the client's past. Helping a client understand and change what is blocking his/her greater enjoyment of life is my specialty.
See more therapy options for Palo Alto
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Palo Alto, CA
900+
Average cost per session
$200
Therapists in Palo Alto, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
82% | Relationship Issues |
75% | Self Esteem |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Stress |
66% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
56% | Aetna |
50% | Cigna and Evernorth |
43% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Palo Alto, CA see their clients
64% | In Person and Online | |
36% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Palo Alto?
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.