Therapists in Germantown, MD
![Photo of Katie Giganti, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45c9cc26-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Giganti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874 (Online Only)
Virtual openings beginning in September. Hi, I'm Katie! Do you struggle with high stress or feeling down, but not sure how to feel better? Daily challenges, emotional burdens, and past experiences can leave you feeling drained and stuck in a rut. I specialize in helping women who want to exit the vicious cycle & feel themselves again. I can help you identify triggers, set goals and maintain them. I use techniques known as "CBT," or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (using the way you think to improve mood or stress) and distress tolerance skills so that you build that resiliency muscle- just like an athletic trainer would in a gym.
Virtual openings beginning in September. Hi, I'm Katie! Do you struggle with high stress or feeling down, but not sure how to feel better? Daily challenges, emotional burdens, and past experiences can leave you feeling drained and stuck in a rut. I specialize in helping women who want to exit the vicious cycle & feel themselves again. I can help you identify triggers, set goals and maintain them. I use techniques known as "CBT," or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (using the way you think to improve mood or stress) and distress tolerance skills so that you build that resiliency muscle- just like an athletic trainer would in a gym.
![Photo of Janay Taylor, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab067253-3861-46d2-8845-f093ac96fc52/3/320x400.jpeg)
Janay Taylor is a Licensed Certified Social Worker, Clinical (LCSW-C) who has experience working with children and adults with a wide range of mental health needs. Janay is seeking to work with clients who are looking to receive guidance with depression, anxiety, parenting education, communication, and relationship issues. Janay completed both her Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Salisbury University. She comes from an environment of working with people involved in the Child Welfare system, guiding them towards reunifying children with birth families.
Janay Taylor is a Licensed Certified Social Worker, Clinical (LCSW-C) who has experience working with children and adults with a wide range of mental health needs. Janay is seeking to work with clients who are looking to receive guidance with depression, anxiety, parenting education, communication, and relationship issues. Janay completed both her Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Salisbury University. She comes from an environment of working with people involved in the Child Welfare system, guiding them towards reunifying children with birth families.
![Photo of Helen Ehlers, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c60393c4-7e8f-43ac-ae9e-364da884857d/5/320x400.jpeg)
With over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I will work with you collaboratively to address your concerns. I have helped many individuals with anxiety, depression, specific phobias, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, sleep disturbance, and difficulties related to medical conditions. I value the uniqueness and strengths of individuals while utilizing evidence-based treatments, primarily focusing on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
With over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I will work with you collaboratively to address your concerns. I have helped many individuals with anxiety, depression, specific phobias, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, sleep disturbance, and difficulties related to medical conditions. I value the uniqueness and strengths of individuals while utilizing evidence-based treatments, primarily focusing on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
![Photo of David Wyner, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf058e2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
You don't have to continue feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, relationship or self issues. Effective psychotherapy helps most people deal with these problems and in many cases provides a life altering experience. I have an extensive background treating a wide variety of problems in a safe and congenial atmosphere.
You don't have to continue feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, relationship or self issues. Effective psychotherapy helps most people deal with these problems and in many cases provides a life altering experience. I have an extensive background treating a wide variety of problems in a safe and congenial atmosphere.
![Photo of Kim Rowan, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b8c412c-5a1c-42ba-b2b1-71d769b78d18/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Rowan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20876 (Online Only)
Welcome to the journey of healing and growth! With over 10 years of experience, I'm here to be your trusted companion on the path to emotional wellness. From little ones to seasoned adults, and every heart in between, I specialize in guiding individuals, couples and families through life's twists and turns. Whether it's overcoming trauma, soothing anxiety, lifting the fog of depression, navigating grief, or taming the wild waves of ADHD, together we’ll weave a tapestry of resilience and hope. Let's embark on a journey where every challenge becomes a stepping stone to a brighter more vibrant tomorrow!
Welcome to the journey of healing and growth! With over 10 years of experience, I'm here to be your trusted companion on the path to emotional wellness. From little ones to seasoned adults, and every heart in between, I specialize in guiding individuals, couples and families through life's twists and turns. Whether it's overcoming trauma, soothing anxiety, lifting the fog of depression, navigating grief, or taming the wild waves of ADHD, together we’ll weave a tapestry of resilience and hope. Let's embark on a journey where every challenge becomes a stepping stone to a brighter more vibrant tomorrow!
![Photo of Adrienne Gardner, LCSW -C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a68053bf-2728-44b2-8819-0a2939d827a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adrienne Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW -C
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876 (Online Only)
Hello all! I’m a mental health professional with over 15 years of experience. I’m from Washington, DC area and graduated from Howard University and The University of Maryland School of Social Work. I gained my experience working in Mental/Behavioral Health with positions with the State of Maryland, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Recovery Centers of America, and the Department of Defense/Department of the Army to name the most impactful. My specialties include treating individuals plagued with issues related to trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, and related disorders.
Hello all! I’m a mental health professional with over 15 years of experience. I’m from Washington, DC area and graduated from Howard University and The University of Maryland School of Social Work. I gained my experience working in Mental/Behavioral Health with positions with the State of Maryland, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Recovery Centers of America, and the Department of Defense/Department of the Army to name the most impactful. My specialties include treating individuals plagued with issues related to trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, and related disorders.
![Photo of Karina Campbell, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f46e18c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karina Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876 (Online Only)
Life's challenges can be so overwhelming that it leaves us feeling angry, anxious, misunderstood, stressed, and even discouraged about the future. I provide a warm and safe environment where we discover together how to best address these challenges so you are able to feel ease and fulfillment in your life. I promote a caring and respectful therapeutic relationship.
Life's challenges can be so overwhelming that it leaves us feeling angry, anxious, misunderstood, stressed, and even discouraged about the future. I provide a warm and safe environment where we discover together how to best address these challenges so you are able to feel ease and fulfillment in your life. I promote a caring and respectful therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Mitch Lisa - Dr. Mitch-Lisa Marriage/Couples Workshops/Seminars, PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6972e9f9-102e-4858-b385-33d8d725b1f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mitch-Lisa Marriage/Couples Workshops/Seminars
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Seminars, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session (Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops/Seminars are Designed to be Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate Your Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Seminars, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session (Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops/Seminars are Designed to be Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate Your Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
![Photo of Kathleen Pechan, LCSW-C, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80f2cc11-42fa-4e34-afb2-13218189a475/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Pechan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LISW
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874 (Online Only)
*** CURRENTLY ACCEPTING TELEHEALTH APPTS*** I am a licensed clinical social worker committed to helping people learn how to address concerns related to depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships and aging. My work focuses on learning how past decisions, ineffective thoughts and belief systems are affecting your current functioning. I called my therapy business, Caring Connection, because I believe healthy interpersonal connections are so important in our lives. We have to understand how to develop connections that bring us joy and satisfaction.
*** CURRENTLY ACCEPTING TELEHEALTH APPTS*** I am a licensed clinical social worker committed to helping people learn how to address concerns related to depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships and aging. My work focuses on learning how past decisions, ineffective thoughts and belief systems are affecting your current functioning. I called my therapy business, Caring Connection, because I believe healthy interpersonal connections are so important in our lives. We have to understand how to develop connections that bring us joy and satisfaction.
![Photo of Audrey Elkinson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d84947c-4ffe-47a5-816e-ea418426df5f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Audrey Elkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874 (Online Only)
Audrey Elkinson is a Licensed Certified Clinical Social Worker and Board-Certified Art Therapist (LCSW-C, ATR-BC)with more than 10 years of professional experience working with children, teens, and adults who have been struggling to cope with anxiety, depression, family conflict, dysfunctional relationships, behavioral issues, poor coping skills, oppositional defiance disorder, low self-esteem, women's issues, chronic stress, and more. Audrey received her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Maryland, where she was a research assistant to the Financial Social Work Initiative.
Audrey Elkinson is a Licensed Certified Clinical Social Worker and Board-Certified Art Therapist (LCSW-C, ATR-BC)with more than 10 years of professional experience working with children, teens, and adults who have been struggling to cope with anxiety, depression, family conflict, dysfunctional relationships, behavioral issues, poor coping skills, oppositional defiance disorder, low self-esteem, women's issues, chronic stress, and more. Audrey received her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Maryland, where she was a research assistant to the Financial Social Work Initiative.
![Photo of Andrea Sadrakula, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87e48d7e-1c9e-4cbc-8457-ee0514bacb0b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I particularly enjoy working with kids, teens, and adults who have a history of big emotions, and are looking for more insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behavior patterns. Maybe it seems like everything is against you or that life will never get better, or that everyone else seems to have it together except you. Perhaps you have struggled for a long time with controlling your impulses, relationships never seem to stick, and chaos and crisis seems to follow you wherever you go. We can process and relieve feelings such as shame, distrust, overwhelm, panic, irritability, anger, and depression without judgement.
Welcome! I particularly enjoy working with kids, teens, and adults who have a history of big emotions, and are looking for more insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behavior patterns. Maybe it seems like everything is against you or that life will never get better, or that everyone else seems to have it together except you. Perhaps you have struggled for a long time with controlling your impulses, relationships never seem to stick, and chaos and crisis seems to follow you wherever you go. We can process and relieve feelings such as shame, distrust, overwhelm, panic, irritability, anger, and depression without judgement.
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![Photo of Sara Rodriguez - Creative Counseling Connections, LCSW-C, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/224122ef-2735-40cc-909f-6131d0f1920d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Creative Counseling Connections
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20874
In-person openings as of 8/27/24. Emma Parks, LMSW serves toddlers, children, teens & adults. Emma combines skill-building with creative arts, play therapy, sensory activities (try our therapy swing!) & teaches her clients how their thoughts affect feelings & behaviors. She enjoys working with anxiety & building connection within the family, including "theraplay," a parent-child therapy to foster joy & reduce unhealthy behaviors. Emma has adjunct specialities in developmental trauma & adoption (TBRI & TF-CBT, theraplay), also utilizes Brain Integration for natural treatment of ADHD.
In-person openings as of 8/27/24. Emma Parks, LMSW serves toddlers, children, teens & adults. Emma combines skill-building with creative arts, play therapy, sensory activities (try our therapy swing!) & teaches her clients how their thoughts affect feelings & behaviors. She enjoys working with anxiety & building connection within the family, including "theraplay," a parent-child therapy to foster joy & reduce unhealthy behaviors. Emma has adjunct specialities in developmental trauma & adoption (TBRI & TF-CBT, theraplay), also utilizes Brain Integration for natural treatment of ADHD.
![Photo of Kathleen Murray, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dfdb691-3f8e-481a-99fb-113818cfb22d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874 (Online Only)
Katie is a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical. She maintains a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach with all clients. Katie is a welcoming and affirming therapist for members of the LGBTQIA+ community. The basis of her work with clients is supported by the frameworks of cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. Katie is on the national registry of therapists certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and specializes in working with individuals who have a history of acute and complex traumatic experiences.
Katie is a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical. She maintains a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach with all clients. Katie is a welcoming and affirming therapist for members of the LGBTQIA+ community. The basis of her work with clients is supported by the frameworks of cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. Katie is on the national registry of therapists certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and specializes in working with individuals who have a history of acute and complex traumatic experiences.
![Photo of Elizabeth J Petrolle, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ff196fe-77aa-4188-885f-2e47ff828bf2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth J Petrolle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876
My practice offers a safe, warm, & non-judgmental environment for patients to open up their minds and become the best they can be. I use a strength's based approach to start by acknowledging what each patient does well; we build on that to address areas s/he is struggling in and establish goals to work towards. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities to help each patient get the individualized approach s/he needs to be successful.
My practice offers a safe, warm, & non-judgmental environment for patients to open up their minds and become the best they can be. I use a strength's based approach to start by acknowledging what each patient does well; we build on that to address areas s/he is struggling in and establish goals to work towards. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities to help each patient get the individualized approach s/he needs to be successful.
![Photo of Paul White, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffdcd5b8-5c5d-4f13-bba2-0dd766a5ff44/1/320x400.jpeg)
Paul White
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20876 (Online Only)
Feeling stressed about university or life as a young adult? Overwhelmed by the world's challenges or looking for balance? I'm here to help! Together, we'll create a therapy plan just for you, tackling the emotional weight of being a young adult. Let's find your passion and purpose again. Build resilience, gain clarity, and feel stronger. Your thoughts and ideas deserve the best support.
Feeling stressed about university or life as a young adult? Overwhelmed by the world's challenges or looking for balance? I'm here to help! Together, we'll create a therapy plan just for you, tackling the emotional weight of being a young adult. Let's find your passion and purpose again. Build resilience, gain clarity, and feel stronger. Your thoughts and ideas deserve the best support.
![Photo of Malik Johnson - Mental Jog Therapeutic Services, LLC, MS, LCPC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff3078d0-5afc-46f0-b2ca-4c23905e8cf5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mental Jog Therapeutic Services, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874 (Online Only)
Have you found yourself feeling stuck or in a slump lately? With everything going on today, on top of your own responsibilities, it can be easy to get lost in the chaos. Therapy should be something that is healing and assists the client in gaining insight. I like to meet the client where they are and fit in where there is a need. If you think of mental health as a life long race, each runner has their own pace. There is never really a finish line because anything can throw someone off at any given moment. It is my goal to equip my clients with the tools to run their race and be prepared to take on any challenges that may arise.
Have you found yourself feeling stuck or in a slump lately? With everything going on today, on top of your own responsibilities, it can be easy to get lost in the chaos. Therapy should be something that is healing and assists the client in gaining insight. I like to meet the client where they are and fit in where there is a need. If you think of mental health as a life long race, each runner has their own pace. There is never really a finish line because anything can throw someone off at any given moment. It is my goal to equip my clients with the tools to run their race and be prepared to take on any challenges that may arise.
![Photo of Marcia Britt Williams, PhD, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49254e3e-cf32-460d-84d3-d0c96c0f45ad/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marcia Britt Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Marcia. I'm a licensed clinical social worker with over 8 years of mental health experience specializing in anxiety and depression. I'm also a retired, disabled veteran with over 30 years of public health experience. It would be a pleasure to meet you.
Hello, my name is Marcia. I'm a licensed clinical social worker with over 8 years of mental health experience specializing in anxiety and depression. I'm also a retired, disabled veteran with over 30 years of public health experience. It would be a pleasure to meet you.
![Photo of Sangeeta Mehra - Quantum Change, MS, LCPC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cbb4731-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Quantum Change
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20874 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer support for my clients to develop coping skills, reduce stress, improve self-esteem and create healthier relationships through better communication. My ideal clients include families, couples, children and adolescents having difficulty understanding each other and feeling overwhelmed with the increasing demands of work, home and school. By working with families I can address underlying issues of conflict, stress, anxiety, fear, depression, etc. I address the many difficulties or obstacles preventing them to function effectively in daily life and appreciate each other.
I offer support for my clients to develop coping skills, reduce stress, improve self-esteem and create healthier relationships through better communication. My ideal clients include families, couples, children and adolescents having difficulty understanding each other and feeling overwhelmed with the increasing demands of work, home and school. By working with families I can address underlying issues of conflict, stress, anxiety, fear, depression, etc. I address the many difficulties or obstacles preventing them to function effectively in daily life and appreciate each other.
![Photo of Andrea Morley - Connected Wellness LLC, LCSW-C](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1e75bf6-ca06-481d-86ba-83d25ba10ecc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel stuck? Are you suffering with anxiety, depression, and negative thoughts and feelings? Our mission is to help heal your pain and move beyond these challenges. Together we will explore your concerns and develop a plan to help you heal and live the life you would like to live. Andrea and Carol have extensive clinical experience working with clients and helping them heal.
Do you feel stuck? Are you suffering with anxiety, depression, and negative thoughts and feelings? Our mission is to help heal your pain and move beyond these challenges. Together we will explore your concerns and develop a plan to help you heal and live the life you would like to live. Andrea and Carol have extensive clinical experience working with clients and helping them heal.
![Photo of Taysue Morris, LCPC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bd80a29-1952-4ac9-b51b-b166df312d01/3/320x400.jpeg)
Taysue Morris
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874
Currently taking new clients! Welcome to ReNEW You counseling. Do you often feel I holds a unique and diverse lived reality that has allowed her to see value in both painful and joyful life events. I use my various identities and experiences from multiple settings I have worked within to help advocate and serve my clients. I take a holistic approach in therapy, focusing on the whole person. Utilizing this therapeutic modality, I integrate spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional forms of well-being, to help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves on all these levels.
Currently taking new clients! Welcome to ReNEW You counseling. Do you often feel I holds a unique and diverse lived reality that has allowed her to see value in both painful and joyful life events. I use my various identities and experiences from multiple settings I have worked within to help advocate and serve my clients. I take a holistic approach in therapy, focusing on the whole person. Utilizing this therapeutic modality, I integrate spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional forms of well-being, to help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves on all these levels.
See more therapy options for Germantown
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Germantown, MD
200+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Germantown, MD who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
76% | Self Esteem |
75% | Coping Skills |
69% | Relationship Issues |
67% | Stress |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
74% | CareFirst |
70% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Therapists in Germantown, MD see their clients
56% | Online Only | |
44% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
19% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Germantown?
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.