Therapists in Virginia Beach, VA
![Photo of Sara La Force, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d01886c-907e-4da2-835f-91bb36631736/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a decade of experience across diverse clinical environments. My specialization lies in assisting adults facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, relational difficulties, and life transitions. Employing a collaborative empowerment perspective, I adopt an integrative approach rooted in humanistic and person-centered principles. This approach involves melding my training in various therapeutic techniques with your individual life experiences, relational dynamics, internal dialogue, growth/healing requirements, and personality.
Hello, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a decade of experience across diverse clinical environments. My specialization lies in assisting adults facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, relational difficulties, and life transitions. Employing a collaborative empowerment perspective, I adopt an integrative approach rooted in humanistic and person-centered principles. This approach involves melding my training in various therapeutic techniques with your individual life experiences, relational dynamics, internal dialogue, growth/healing requirements, and personality.
![Photo of Alexis Ivy, LPC-R, CRC, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3194a015-0344-4cde-bf4f-85b860778f63/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alexis Ivy
Resident in Counseling, LPC-R, CRC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
I obtained my Masters from Virginia Commonwealth University and am deeply committed to assisting individuals of all ages and backgrounds on their journey to mental and emotional well-being. My therapeutic approach is rooted in humanistic and person-centered principles, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and respecting the unique qualities and needs of each client. My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions.
I obtained my Masters from Virginia Commonwealth University and am deeply committed to assisting individuals of all ages and backgrounds on their journey to mental and emotional well-being. My therapeutic approach is rooted in humanistic and person-centered principles, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and respecting the unique qualities and needs of each client. My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions.
![Photo of Leiah Aleksich](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9dfb473-5a5e-4f81-8f4e-398a201fef81/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there, I'm Leiah Aleksich. I bring 3 years of experience in individual therapy to the table. My main focus is supporting adolescents and young adults grappling with life transitions, depression, motivation, and various other challenges. I strive to cultivate a welcoming space for my clients, enabling us to delve into emotions, thoughts, and triggers together. I firmly believe in the uniqueness of every individual, which is why I tailor our approach to suit you and your specific needs, aiming to develop coping strategies that resonate with your personality.
Hi there, I'm Leiah Aleksich. I bring 3 years of experience in individual therapy to the table. My main focus is supporting adolescents and young adults grappling with life transitions, depression, motivation, and various other challenges. I strive to cultivate a welcoming space for my clients, enabling us to delve into emotions, thoughts, and triggers together. I firmly believe in the uniqueness of every individual, which is why I tailor our approach to suit you and your specific needs, aiming to develop coping strategies that resonate with your personality.
![Photo of Autumn Dawn Church, MS Ed](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72f83e50-a2d8-4c7b-8fdb-0597ec82c58c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Seasons change and so do we. Life transitions are rarely easy, and change is inevitable. Maybe you find yourself struggling with making decisions needed to move forward and live life to your full potential or maybe you experience anxiety and depression and/or fear that cause you to feel stuck. Having non-judgmental support from a counselor can help make life transitions a little more bearable and foster growth and empowerment.
Seasons change and so do we. Life transitions are rarely easy, and change is inevitable. Maybe you find yourself struggling with making decisions needed to move forward and live life to your full potential or maybe you experience anxiety and depression and/or fear that cause you to feel stuck. Having non-judgmental support from a counselor can help make life transitions a little more bearable and foster growth and empowerment.
![Photo of Kelly Andrews, MS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d064784-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Andrews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for taking your time to read the information I have provided. One of the most important steps in counseling is finding a therapist you can connect with and trust. I offer free consultations so you can assess if I am the right fit for your healing process. For over 16 years I have been honored to work with children, adolescents and adults on their therapeutic journey’s. I am passionate about addressing and treating the client as a whole which includes the physical, emotional and spiritual self. I collaborate with each client and tailor sessions to meet their current needs.
Thank you for taking your time to read the information I have provided. One of the most important steps in counseling is finding a therapist you can connect with and trust. I offer free consultations so you can assess if I am the right fit for your healing process. For over 16 years I have been honored to work with children, adolescents and adults on their therapeutic journey’s. I am passionate about addressing and treating the client as a whole which includes the physical, emotional and spiritual self. I collaborate with each client and tailor sessions to meet their current needs.
![Photo of Arielle T. Leeberg, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35ac0548-9faa-4eaa-a31b-478d9793b9d3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Arielle T. Leeberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Accepting New Clients! Have you been feeling overwhelmed, you just don’t know what to do and nothing seems to be working? The emotional and mental weight of life can often lead us to feel unsure and unsafe in our own mind and in our bodies. My passion aligns with helping individuals navigate and manage their emotions and thoughts by developing awareness of their triggers, acceptance as to why this may be happening, and coping skills to help us transform/evolve. I use an integrative approach including traditional psychotherapy as well as somatic interventions, breathing exercises, Yoga, meditations and guided visualizations.
Accepting New Clients! Have you been feeling overwhelmed, you just don’t know what to do and nothing seems to be working? The emotional and mental weight of life can often lead us to feel unsure and unsafe in our own mind and in our bodies. My passion aligns with helping individuals navigate and manage their emotions and thoughts by developing awareness of their triggers, acceptance as to why this may be happening, and coping skills to help us transform/evolve. I use an integrative approach including traditional psychotherapy as well as somatic interventions, breathing exercises, Yoga, meditations and guided visualizations.
![Photo of Karen L. Mattox, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d9ca6a-1204-41dd-942c-84467698d76f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Karen L. Mattox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23464
Experiencing a loss in your life? It could be the death of a friend, loved one, or pet, divorce, loss of a job, or any other kind of loss. I can help you. I have extensive experience dealing with grief and loss. Call or email for an appointment and let's see how working together, we can help you heal. I can help you come to terms with your losses. Be sure to ask for Karen when you call.
Experiencing a loss in your life? It could be the death of a friend, loved one, or pet, divorce, loss of a job, or any other kind of loss. I can help you. I have extensive experience dealing with grief and loss. Call or email for an appointment and let's see how working together, we can help you heal. I can help you come to terms with your losses. Be sure to ask for Karen when you call.
![Photo of Michelle De Rosa, MA, LPC, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4dea92b-d0c6-464f-86cc-bfc4d7c0077f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle De Rosa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Online Only)
Available telehealth in VA & MD. Are you suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts? Have you experienced traumatic events that are negatively affecting your life and relationships? Perhaps you are feeling misunderstood and confused by life events or emotional changes. Chronic illnesses and disabilities - both physical and psychological - can be isolating and difficult to cope with alone. Clients who see me are often struggling with these stressors, searching for relief and control over their lives. Counseling is challenging, but the results - and YOU - are worth it!
Available telehealth in VA & MD. Are you suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts? Have you experienced traumatic events that are negatively affecting your life and relationships? Perhaps you are feeling misunderstood and confused by life events or emotional changes. Chronic illnesses and disabilities - both physical and psychological - can be isolating and difficult to cope with alone. Clients who see me are often struggling with these stressors, searching for relief and control over their lives. Counseling is challenging, but the results - and YOU - are worth it!
![Photo of Megan Burgan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01b530bd-7d02-4e96-9fd4-9f1b32d1cbf3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Burgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23451 (Online Only)
I am committed to supporting individuals experiencing challenges such as depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harm, self-esteem, identity exploration, and boundaries. My practice is centered on providing trans-affirming care, where I strive to create an inclusive space for all individuals. I am dedicated to decolonizing therapeutic practices, recognizing and challenging the impact of systemic oppression on mental health. Working with teenagers and adults, I aim to foster resilience, empower individuals, and guide them towards healing and self-discovery. Together, we will navigate the complexities of life.
I am committed to supporting individuals experiencing challenges such as depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harm, self-esteem, identity exploration, and boundaries. My practice is centered on providing trans-affirming care, where I strive to create an inclusive space for all individuals. I am dedicated to decolonizing therapeutic practices, recognizing and challenging the impact of systemic oppression on mental health. Working with teenagers and adults, I aim to foster resilience, empower individuals, and guide them towards healing and self-discovery. Together, we will navigate the complexities of life.
![Photo of Brandy Dunn - Silver Lake Psychology, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c49f75b-6ec8-4c96-816f-690790a95e9b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
![Photo of Melissa Woods, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9296555-7e09-46e8-a87d-2cdb007f2857/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! My name is Dr. Melissa Woods. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. As a clinician, I enjoy the collaborative navigation of lived experiences in service of cultivating a better quality and more fulfilling life. In therapy, I utilize a holistic understanding of presenting issues and the unique needs of each individual to guide my therapeutic approach. I am deeply rooted in psychodynamic and interpersonal theory, and specialize in CBT, ACT, DBT, Relational Therapy, and Attachment-based Therapy.
Hi! My name is Dr. Melissa Woods. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. As a clinician, I enjoy the collaborative navigation of lived experiences in service of cultivating a better quality and more fulfilling life. In therapy, I utilize a holistic understanding of presenting issues and the unique needs of each individual to guide my therapeutic approach. I am deeply rooted in psychodynamic and interpersonal theory, and specialize in CBT, ACT, DBT, Relational Therapy, and Attachment-based Therapy.
15 Second Videos
OCD & Anxiety Specialists
Veronica Tisdale Wrubel
Olivia Bodiford
Priscilla Ballsun
Angela Coleman
Emily Bura
Melanie Mosbarger
Jenner Ls Williams
Mind Over Matter Therapy
Miriam Matthews
Leanne Langlands - Free Spirit Counseling Virginia Beach. New Office!
Estrella S. Nesbit
Rapha Counseling Services Inc
Jana Davis
Megan Leann Schalembier
Courtney Kramer
Rosalind “Roz” Caldwell Stanley
Misty Williams
Stephanee Howell
Reta Selitto
Atlantic Family & Adolescent Therapy
Georgia Phillips
Pete Salant, LCSW — Psychotherapist
Amber Carver
Ashton Ralston
Tess Hosier
Lauren Bise
Anne Karcher
Meichell Worthing
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Virginia Beach
Howard Simmons
Scott Debb
Come Find Rest Wellness Group
Janiya Phillips - Stillness Counseling Center - Therapy For Black Women
Darleen Claire Wodzenski
Laura Michelle Samalya
Tea & Empathy Counseling
Matt Mullenix
Danielle Cummings
Domany Davilmar
Christy McGurgan
Ginger Haesler, LCSW
Leisa Rebold
Beth A Brodine
DJ Burr—Addiction, Codependency & Trauma
Communicate & Connect Counseling
Danita Morales Ramos
Megan A Connell
Margretta F Austin
Open Mind Health
![Photo of Michael J Sheffield - OCD & Anxiety Specialists](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b51ef6f-9a3b-4fac-8c14-a9f369a62c5b/2/320x400.png)
OCD & Anxiety Specialists
Resident in Counseling
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Online Only)
My name is Michael Sheffield and alongside obtaining my Master's degree, I have been working in the counseling field with people for 3 years. Life is hitting you hard right now and you're stuck. Maybe you feel alone. Maybe you struggle doing what you need or want to get done. Maybe you struggle with the way your mind works. Or just maybe you feel like there's not much meaning in your life. My life and training are lent towards specializing with people experiencing anxiety and OCD. The form of therapy and methods I use are considered the gold standard for working with these challenges in a way that helps the person Take Back Control.
My name is Michael Sheffield and alongside obtaining my Master's degree, I have been working in the counseling field with people for 3 years. Life is hitting you hard right now and you're stuck. Maybe you feel alone. Maybe you struggle doing what you need or want to get done. Maybe you struggle with the way your mind works. Or just maybe you feel like there's not much meaning in your life. My life and training are lent towards specializing with people experiencing anxiety and OCD. The form of therapy and methods I use are considered the gold standard for working with these challenges in a way that helps the person Take Back Control.
![Photo of Brittany Hines, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c0e815a-340b-4cdf-9f91-ea1c124e1af4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Hines
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Online Only)
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to break free from the grip and effects of trauma, depression and anxiety, while embracing your true self and finding lasting emotional balance? If your an adult or have a child who seeks refuge from the grip of these emotions, yearning to reclaim emotional equilibrium without losing your true essence and desire a life unburdened by constant inner turmoil, here is where you can rediscover joy and meaning. Together we will explore emotions and thoughts, gently nudging toward self-discovery, uncover patterns and building effective coping skills and gain valuable insights!
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to break free from the grip and effects of trauma, depression and anxiety, while embracing your true self and finding lasting emotional balance? If your an adult or have a child who seeks refuge from the grip of these emotions, yearning to reclaim emotional equilibrium without losing your true essence and desire a life unburdened by constant inner turmoil, here is where you can rediscover joy and meaning. Together we will explore emotions and thoughts, gently nudging toward self-discovery, uncover patterns and building effective coping skills and gain valuable insights!
![Photo of Rachel Townes, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dea5e791-ba2f-435e-85ff-2ee824dee1df/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Townes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23453
Rachel Townes, MA, LPC, ACS, CCTP. Counseling is building relationships that produce strength based behaviors for healing and recovery. My preferred modalities are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Therapy, and other therapies for addictions counseling, trauma-informed care, and family relational matters. I have an extensive experience in addressing matters of addiction, familial discord, trauma, serious mental illness, crisis intervention, and life stage conflicts.
Rachel Townes, MA, LPC, ACS, CCTP. Counseling is building relationships that produce strength based behaviors for healing and recovery. My preferred modalities are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Therapy, and other therapies for addictions counseling, trauma-informed care, and family relational matters. I have an extensive experience in addressing matters of addiction, familial discord, trauma, serious mental illness, crisis intervention, and life stage conflicts.
![Photo of Kevin Joyce, MM, MEd, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50986161-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kevin Joyce
Licensed Professional Counselor, MM, MEd, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
I offer comfort and guidance to people struggling to find their way through a hard transition or uncertain situation. Sessions with me are easy, but engaged and lively, and I strive to create a safe, inclusive environment. I am highly influenced by Humanistic Psychology, Carl Jung, and both Eastern and Western philosophies and spiritual traditions. As such, I regard suffering as a natural and expected part of the human condition, not as evidence of a personal defect.
I offer comfort and guidance to people struggling to find their way through a hard transition or uncertain situation. Sessions with me are easy, but engaged and lively, and I strive to create a safe, inclusive environment. I am highly influenced by Humanistic Psychology, Carl Jung, and both Eastern and Western philosophies and spiritual traditions. As such, I regard suffering as a natural and expected part of the human condition, not as evidence of a personal defect.
![Photo of Charita L Selden - A New Cycle Counseling Services, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/181bca1b-75bc-49a3-ad6b-8195dd688ac3/2/320x400.jpeg)
A New Cycle Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (Online Only)
My name is Charita Selden, and my primary focus when providing counseling services is to help a client become the best version of themselves, through person-centered services. I have found that there are many times when my clients are seeking services for the first time in their lives and there's often a bit of reticence. I am quite familiar with this feeling, as I too have sought counseling in the past. This is why I work first to establish a rapport with all of my clients, find out what it is they want to accomplish and collaborate with them to develop an achievable treatment plan.
My name is Charita Selden, and my primary focus when providing counseling services is to help a client become the best version of themselves, through person-centered services. I have found that there are many times when my clients are seeking services for the first time in their lives and there's often a bit of reticence. I am quite familiar with this feeling, as I too have sought counseling in the past. This is why I work first to establish a rapport with all of my clients, find out what it is they want to accomplish and collaborate with them to develop an achievable treatment plan.
![Photo of Abel Juarez, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc7f94d3-f698-4e98-a100-d5067ad083b2/1/320x400.png)
Abel Juarez is a Resident in Counseling who specializes in depression, anger, anxiety, relationships, and addiction. In life, there will be obstacles and complications that can interrupt and affect how individuals cope with negative as well as positive outcomes. These outcomes can influence a person's thought process and have the ability to make them feel overwhelmed, powerless, and anxious. In counseling, these challenges can be handled in a manner in which individuals, couples, and families can address and begin to understand how such difficulties can result in the present situations.
Abel Juarez is a Resident in Counseling who specializes in depression, anger, anxiety, relationships, and addiction. In life, there will be obstacles and complications that can interrupt and affect how individuals cope with negative as well as positive outcomes. These outcomes can influence a person's thought process and have the ability to make them feel overwhelmed, powerless, and anxious. In counseling, these challenges can be handled in a manner in which individuals, couples, and families can address and begin to understand how such difficulties can result in the present situations.
![Photo of Kriston Nixon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9b03119-5219-4fd6-9b15-f616415c9af5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kriston Nixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23464
I use a collaborative approach with my clients to develop and work toward their personal goals. I offer a safe and inclusive space for my clients to explore their identities, relationships, needs, and desires. I have experiences working with adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families.
I use a collaborative approach with my clients to develop and work toward their personal goals. I offer a safe and inclusive space for my clients to explore their identities, relationships, needs, and desires. I have experiences working with adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families.
![Photo of Jeff Whitfield, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/408f794f-9eb8-4233-b3f4-41bbfa4657c0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jeff Whitfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Online Only)
I have been a counselor and life coach for over 30 years with a wide range of experience. I work with adults, adolescents, and families within the full gamut of counseling issues, ranging from relational issues to drug and alcohol addiction to symptom management. I have a Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Counseling along with a minor in biblical theology. I have lived and worked in Texas, Virginia, and North Carolina, as well as England and Ireland. While I do have a Christian worldview and values that will be sprinkled into conversation, I welcome all comers and will meet you where you are.
I have been a counselor and life coach for over 30 years with a wide range of experience. I work with adults, adolescents, and families within the full gamut of counseling issues, ranging from relational issues to drug and alcohol addiction to symptom management. I have a Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Counseling along with a minor in biblical theology. I have lived and worked in Texas, Virginia, and North Carolina, as well as England and Ireland. While I do have a Christian worldview and values that will be sprinkled into conversation, I welcome all comers and will meet you where you are.
![Photo of C Rick Ellis - Spectrum Forensic Services and Neurotherapy Center, EdD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4001e7cf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Spectrum Forensic Services and Neurotherapy Center
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
We are a Neurofeedback/ Neurotherapy Center that serves children, adolescents and adults experiencing challenges. We provide innovative individualized, evidence-based interventions to address an array of life's diverse challenges, so that each individual can reach his or her full potential. All of us encounter problems in living at some point in our lives. Sometimes, those problems interfere with our ability to function at home, work, or school or in other important areas of life.
We are a Neurofeedback/ Neurotherapy Center that serves children, adolescents and adults experiencing challenges. We provide innovative individualized, evidence-based interventions to address an array of life's diverse challenges, so that each individual can reach his or her full potential. All of us encounter problems in living at some point in our lives. Sometimes, those problems interfere with our ability to function at home, work, or school or in other important areas of life.
See more therapy options for Virginia Beach
Nearby Searches for Virginia Beach
- Achilles
- Cape Charles
- Carrollton
- Chesapeake
- Hampton
- Newport News
- Norfolk
- Poquoson
- Portsmouth
- Smithfield
- Suffolk
- Yorktown
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Virginia Beach, VA
1,000+
Average cost per session
$140
Therapists in Virginia Beach, VA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
75% | Self Esteem |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Stress |
72% | Relationship Issues |
72% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
77% | Aetna |
76% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
75% | Anthem | Elevance |
How Therapists in Virginia Beach, VA see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
86% | Female | |
13% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Virginia Beach?
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.