Therapists in Santa Cruz, CA
![Photo of Terry Edwards, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ba88c46-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Terry Edwards
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062 (Online Only)
Do you have life relationship challenges and and can’t seem to figure out a solution? Or do you feel overwhelmed in your life? I will help you to discover the solutions in your internal world and in so doing the everyday world you live in changes also. I use cognitive behavioral skills, communication skills, active and reflective listening Skills. I believe you can work to find solutions to your issues.
Do you have life relationship challenges and and can’t seem to figure out a solution? Or do you feel overwhelmed in your life? I will help you to discover the solutions in your internal world and in so doing the everyday world you live in changes also. I use cognitive behavioral skills, communication skills, active and reflective listening Skills. I believe you can work to find solutions to your issues.
![Photo of Barbara Lutz, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42a88ad1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Barbara Lutz
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (Online Only)
Since 1992, I have counseled families, adults and children. I am an EMDR Trainer, Institute consultant and facilitator, and use EMDR therapy's adaptive information processing to help clients master the challenges encountered in their lives. I received my PhD in international psychology with trauma focus. My specialties include Trauma, Acculturation, Attachment Disorders and Performance Enhancement in clients of all ages. My immigration experience from Germany has prompted the exploration of the crucial part played by our cultural roots in our decision making process and in our lifestyle choices. I speak English, Spanish and German.
Since 1992, I have counseled families, adults and children. I am an EMDR Trainer, Institute consultant and facilitator, and use EMDR therapy's adaptive information processing to help clients master the challenges encountered in their lives. I received my PhD in international psychology with trauma focus. My specialties include Trauma, Acculturation, Attachment Disorders and Performance Enhancement in clients of all ages. My immigration experience from Germany has prompted the exploration of the crucial part played by our cultural roots in our decision making process and in our lifestyle choices. I speak English, Spanish and German.
![Photo of Janer Muelle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e6d86c6-a4a6-4a44-8d8e-0999de012223/1/320x400.jpeg)
Janer Muelle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (Online Only)
My name is Janer, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working in the acute medical setting. My approach is client-focused on the goals you would like to achieve in our time together. I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, interpersonal relationships, and changes in life events. We will work together to develop goals on how to navigate life challenges you're experiencing and encourage empowerment and self-reflection through the process. I utilize CBT, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing interchangeably.
My name is Janer, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working in the acute medical setting. My approach is client-focused on the goals you would like to achieve in our time together. I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, interpersonal relationships, and changes in life events. We will work together to develop goals on how to navigate life challenges you're experiencing and encourage empowerment and self-reflection through the process. I utilize CBT, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing interchangeably.
![Photo of Lauren Reppy, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b617bd3b-60a8-4ada-9ddc-1e7d0f2d729a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Reppy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I provide support for new or expecting mothers and partners, couples, individuals struggling with body image and disordered eating, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, and women's issues. I do this work because I believe that it is every human being's right and potential to live a fulfilled and healthy life, and often, we just need to feel safe, seen, and heard in order to find our way there. If you are ready to experience relief, cultivate new tools that support your healing and growth, and claim your vitality and purpose, I am here to partner with you on your journey.
I provide support for new or expecting mothers and partners, couples, individuals struggling with body image and disordered eating, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, and women's issues. I do this work because I believe that it is every human being's right and potential to live a fulfilled and healthy life, and often, we just need to feel safe, seen, and heard in order to find our way there. If you are ready to experience relief, cultivate new tools that support your healing and growth, and claim your vitality and purpose, I am here to partner with you on your journey.
![Photo of Sarah Barbuto, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3591e04c-2068-49c1-a4a1-5d8a175b24a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Barbuto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062 (Online Only)
Own your story. I specialize in working with women who have experienced trauma, grief, difficult life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem and are ready to take charge of their life narrative. Trust, authenticity, and vulnerability are vital components of the therapeutic process and I work hard to establish and maintain those values with clients. My heart for my clients is that they would feel the safety of being themselves while also being invited into growth and restoration of relationships.
Own your story. I specialize in working with women who have experienced trauma, grief, difficult life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem and are ready to take charge of their life narrative. Trust, authenticity, and vulnerability are vital components of the therapeutic process and I work hard to establish and maintain those values with clients. My heart for my clients is that they would feel the safety of being themselves while also being invited into growth and restoration of relationships.
![Photo of Lisa Holden, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30d0e379-b30b-44eb-8337-7b58811e601b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life presents unexpected challenges which can cause anxiety, depression, hopelessness, difficulties with relationships and problems with self esteem. These unresolved issues can derail us with feelings of being overwhelmed. Therapy can help you learn to manage trauma in order to deal with stressors and move through challenges with confidence so you can get back on track with your life.
Life presents unexpected challenges which can cause anxiety, depression, hopelessness, difficulties with relationships and problems with self esteem. These unresolved issues can derail us with feelings of being overwhelmed. Therapy can help you learn to manage trauma in order to deal with stressors and move through challenges with confidence so you can get back on track with your life.
![Photo of Julia Pinsky, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59a49808-95ca-4daf-abe5-125f397c413e/3/320x400.jpeg)
I guide people in exploring challenges, discovering what means most, and effecting lasting change in their lives. I offer a safe relationship in which you can explore, discover, and grow. Therapy offers a way out of confusion, pain and suffering: it is absolutely possible to shift your thinking, your feelings, and relationship patterns and to feel more at ease in your own skin!
I guide people in exploring challenges, discovering what means most, and effecting lasting change in their lives. I offer a safe relationship in which you can explore, discover, and grow. Therapy offers a way out of confusion, pain and suffering: it is absolutely possible to shift your thinking, your feelings, and relationship patterns and to feel more at ease in your own skin!
![Photo of Zoe Raine-Mustain, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4406d27c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Zoe Raine-Mustain
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I believe in the capacity for people to make incredible change and growth in their lives. But it isn't easy! Regardless of the particular challenge you may be facing, with the right support, you can experience happiness and fulfillment in your life on a daily basis. I have worked in the helping profession for fourteen years, and have helped hundreds of people make changes they didn't even know were possible. I love to help my clients, and hope to have the opportunity to help you!
I believe in the capacity for people to make incredible change and growth in their lives. But it isn't easy! Regardless of the particular challenge you may be facing, with the right support, you can experience happiness and fulfillment in your life on a daily basis. I have worked in the helping profession for fourteen years, and have helped hundreds of people make changes they didn't even know were possible. I love to help my clients, and hope to have the opportunity to help you!
![Photo of Erik Barnes, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c350d35-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Erik Barnes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (Online Only)
In my work with individuals, couples, children, teens and families I strive to create a warm, nurturing and compassionate environment for personal
exploration and healing. In this space all parts of you are welcome.
I see therapy as a collaboration where you and I partner to create an
achievable plan to improve your relationships, increase your sense of
vitality, and work towards your personal goals.
In my work, I have witnessed how life's challenges can create emotional scars that then consciously or unconscious run our lives. These scars can manifest as a variety of mental health and relational issues.
In my work with individuals, couples, children, teens and families I strive to create a warm, nurturing and compassionate environment for personal
exploration and healing. In this space all parts of you are welcome.
I see therapy as a collaboration where you and I partner to create an
achievable plan to improve your relationships, increase your sense of
vitality, and work towards your personal goals.
In my work, I have witnessed how life's challenges can create emotional scars that then consciously or unconscious run our lives. These scars can manifest as a variety of mental health and relational issues.
![Photo of Veronica K. Tonay, PhD, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dfde33c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Veronica K. Tonay
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95061 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Taking only returning clients. For 30 years, I've successfully treated those suffering with the pain and frustration of depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, creative blocks, and life transitions (several of these overlap!). I earned my doctorate at UC Berkeley, and, in addition to my psychotherapy practice, taught clinical psychology at UCSC until 2018. Psychologists are ethically required to use demonstrated treatments for clients' backgrounds and difficulties. I'm fortunate to have trained in many effective therapeutic methods, tailored to each client's needs & personality. I'm available only via video/phone sessions.
Taking only returning clients. For 30 years, I've successfully treated those suffering with the pain and frustration of depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, creative blocks, and life transitions (several of these overlap!). I earned my doctorate at UC Berkeley, and, in addition to my psychotherapy practice, taught clinical psychology at UCSC until 2018. Psychologists are ethically required to use demonstrated treatments for clients' backgrounds and difficulties. I'm fortunate to have trained in many effective therapeutic methods, tailored to each client's needs & personality. I'm available only via video/phone sessions.
![Photo of Sylvie Stein, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e21167d9-988b-47b5-a0a3-d815dbcfef1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! My name's Sylvie and my pronouns are she/her and they/them. As a therapist, I am tender with people, tough on systems, and committed to our collective liberation. I've been a mental health worker for over eight years in schools, at a crisis center, and as a family therapist. I'm particularly experienced in and passionate about working with trauma in its many forms, and partnering with you to transform harm into what serves you, your beloved relationships, and the world you want to see. I offer individual counseling with youth and adults and relationship counseling with loved ones of all kinds.
Hi there! My name's Sylvie and my pronouns are she/her and they/them. As a therapist, I am tender with people, tough on systems, and committed to our collective liberation. I've been a mental health worker for over eight years in schools, at a crisis center, and as a family therapist. I'm particularly experienced in and passionate about working with trauma in its many forms, and partnering with you to transform harm into what serves you, your beloved relationships, and the world you want to see. I offer individual counseling with youth and adults and relationship counseling with loved ones of all kinds.
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![Photo of Leah Kaplan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9d8c4d5-c97d-4603-b3eb-96c28722e2da/2/320x400.jpeg)
By utilizing mindfulness based practices, ecotherapy, somatics and a collaborative, person centered approach, I can support you in moving through life’s challenges and centering your joy. My experience in the mental health field includes providing care for transition aged foster youth, LGBTQ Seniors and youth, and as a therapist in a healthcare setting. Through these experiences, I’ve developed a passion for working with teens, adults, and seniors. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I approach therapy though a systems lens, and I can also support you in navigating social and political pressure on you and your community.
By utilizing mindfulness based practices, ecotherapy, somatics and a collaborative, person centered approach, I can support you in moving through life’s challenges and centering your joy. My experience in the mental health field includes providing care for transition aged foster youth, LGBTQ Seniors and youth, and as a therapist in a healthcare setting. Through these experiences, I’ve developed a passion for working with teens, adults, and seniors. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I approach therapy though a systems lens, and I can also support you in navigating social and political pressure on you and your community.
![Photo of Malinda Thompson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c22df09-1654-422a-a2fc-f7e08ed7a939/2/320x400.jpeg)
The most important person in the therapy session is you. The most mysterious person in the therapy session is you. And the most powerful insight will eventually come from you. You may feel stuck, angry, lonely, confused, hopeless or numb. Maybe you feel too much? Perhaps you're losing hours on tik tok or porn sites? you dissociate, sleep too much; can't sleep. It's okay to reach out. Everyone wants connection, everyone needs connection. Therapy can help you find ways to connect.
The most important person in the therapy session is you. The most mysterious person in the therapy session is you. And the most powerful insight will eventually come from you. You may feel stuck, angry, lonely, confused, hopeless or numb. Maybe you feel too much? Perhaps you're losing hours on tik tok or porn sites? you dissociate, sleep too much; can't sleep. It's okay to reach out. Everyone wants connection, everyone needs connection. Therapy can help you find ways to connect.
![Photo of Norman Malcolm Brown, PhD, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5356c4de-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Never have our challenges been as great as now. We must improve all our relations with people and nature or both will deteriorate around us. As a man you may feel frustrated in either work or intimate relationships or both. Yet the personal skills you've built for work are often opposite from those for intimacy. There may seem to be no way to the success and connections you need. As a woman you may face too much work and too little love and friendship. Coupling may mean losing track of yourself, and good men are hard to find. The way forward involves increasing our emotional versatility and love for ourselves, others and our planet.
Never have our challenges been as great as now. We must improve all our relations with people and nature or both will deteriorate around us. As a man you may feel frustrated in either work or intimate relationships or both. Yet the personal skills you've built for work are often opposite from those for intimacy. There may seem to be no way to the success and connections you need. As a woman you may face too much work and too little love and friendship. Coupling may mean losing track of yourself, and good men are hard to find. The way forward involves increasing our emotional versatility and love for ourselves, others and our planet.
![Photo of Joe Sousa, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cacc3ad-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi. I am Joe Sousa, a licensed psychotherapist in the State of CA. I've been providing counseling services in the Santa Cruz area in one form or another since 1993. Here's the issues I work with in therapy: Relationship enhancement, improve communication, sexual intimacy; handling difficulties, such as breakups and divorce; discovering life purpose and build self-esteem; issues relating to school, careers, money, a child or an elderly parent; dealing with powerful emotions, like anger, anxiety, depression, fear, grief, loss, and panic; addictive or compulsive behavior, with regard to alcohol, drugs, food, sex and/or porn.
Hi. I am Joe Sousa, a licensed psychotherapist in the State of CA. I've been providing counseling services in the Santa Cruz area in one form or another since 1993. Here's the issues I work with in therapy: Relationship enhancement, improve communication, sexual intimacy; handling difficulties, such as breakups and divorce; discovering life purpose and build self-esteem; issues relating to school, careers, money, a child or an elderly parent; dealing with powerful emotions, like anger, anxiety, depression, fear, grief, loss, and panic; addictive or compulsive behavior, with regard to alcohol, drugs, food, sex and/or porn.
![Photo of Rachel Jordana Horodezky, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7068fa43-e768-4d47-a017-c350802f710d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I work with youth and adults using a strength-based, humanistic approach to treatment. It is my belief that YOU are the expert and that it is my job to help you develop your inner strength and knowledge in order to feel better and live a more fulfilling life. My approach involves integrating mind, body and spirit in order for you to take the insight that you receive in therapy and put it into direct action in your life. It would be my pleasure to work with you. I also offer tele-health sessions and movement workshops. Please message me or check out my website to find out more. www.centerforembodimentmedicine.com
Welcome! I work with youth and adults using a strength-based, humanistic approach to treatment. It is my belief that YOU are the expert and that it is my job to help you develop your inner strength and knowledge in order to feel better and live a more fulfilling life. My approach involves integrating mind, body and spirit in order for you to take the insight that you receive in therapy and put it into direct action in your life. It would be my pleasure to work with you. I also offer tele-health sessions and movement workshops. Please message me or check out my website to find out more. www.centerforembodimentmedicine.com
![Photo of Krista Gallagher, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee4c7772-75b2-425e-9102-07e55f3db1ae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Krista Gallagher
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95062 (Online Only)
Are you seeking a therapist who is attuned, invested, present and committed to supporting you on your journey toward growth, discovery, and healing? Having been a client myself, I understand how important it is to find a therapist who you feel really "gets you" and with whom you feel safe and comfortable being vulnerable and open. I focus on creating a foundation of presence, safety, and trust in the therapeutic relationship. I am here to see you, hear you, understand you, and support you & will meet you with a non-judgmental, compassionate, and supportive presence as we work together.
Are you seeking a therapist who is attuned, invested, present and committed to supporting you on your journey toward growth, discovery, and healing? Having been a client myself, I understand how important it is to find a therapist who you feel really "gets you" and with whom you feel safe and comfortable being vulnerable and open. I focus on creating a foundation of presence, safety, and trust in the therapeutic relationship. I am here to see you, hear you, understand you, and support you & will meet you with a non-judgmental, compassionate, and supportive presence as we work together.
![Photo of Jillian Chesley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56b26b7e-3487-4d96-81c8-95d8d88eb448/2/320x400.jpeg)
With a passion for inspiring individuals to claim their own personal excellence, my expertise is in understanding interpersonal dynamics, and successfully coaching individuals, couples, families and groups into reaching their highest self. My background includes a degree in Organizational Communication, a ten year career as a Technical/Corporate Instructor, and fifteen years of coaching/Therapy with a Master of Arts in MFT. Along with my private practice, I teach Zumba (dance inspired group fitness). I look forward to our meeting and becoming part of your journey.
With a passion for inspiring individuals to claim their own personal excellence, my expertise is in understanding interpersonal dynamics, and successfully coaching individuals, couples, families and groups into reaching their highest self. My background includes a degree in Organizational Communication, a ten year career as a Technical/Corporate Instructor, and fifteen years of coaching/Therapy with a Master of Arts in MFT. Along with my private practice, I teach Zumba (dance inspired group fitness). I look forward to our meeting and becoming part of your journey.
![Photo of Carolyn A Vitale, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7a33233-5aff-4875-9d42-40d2b821c5c4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carolyn A Vitale
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I like to work with people of all ages. Often with adults I am interested in getting beyond everyday conversation into deeper layers of self, incorporating an inward focus of the body, mind and spirit. I am eclectic and offer a strength-based approach to help with depression, anxiety, transitions, relationship challenges, overall stuckness and other challenges. My approach is humanistic and compassionate, providing the support needed to get through hardships into a more empowered, creative and celebratory self.
I like to work with people of all ages. Often with adults I am interested in getting beyond everyday conversation into deeper layers of self, incorporating an inward focus of the body, mind and spirit. I am eclectic and offer a strength-based approach to help with depression, anxiety, transitions, relationship challenges, overall stuckness and other challenges. My approach is humanistic and compassionate, providing the support needed to get through hardships into a more empowered, creative and celebratory self.
![Photo of Erin Williams-McNish, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f87d21b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Williams-McNish
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95063
I hold the belief that humans possess the resiliency to return to their grounded internal place of peace. Each person has the inherent ability to explore and find their individual tools for healing. I will gently and safely guide you through life's discord and back to your place of peace.
I hold the belief that humans possess the resiliency to return to their grounded internal place of peace. Each person has the inherent ability to explore and find their individual tools for healing. I will gently and safely guide you through life's discord and back to your place of peace.
See more therapy options for Santa Cruz
Nearby Searches for Santa Cruz
- Aptos
- Ben Lomond
- Boulder Creek
- Campbell
- Capitola
- Felton
- Los Gatos
- Monte Sereno
- Saratoga
- Scotts Valley
- Soquel
- Watsonville
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Santa Cruz, CA
600+
Average cost per session
$170
Therapists in Santa Cruz, CA who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
80% | Relationship Issues |
78% | Self Esteem |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | Stress |
69% | Grief |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
47% | Aetna |
42% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
39% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Santa Cruz, CA see their clients
76% | In Person and Online | |
24% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
17% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Santa Cruz?
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.