Therapists in Alexandria, VA
![Photo of Melinda McGarvey, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba099a05-38dd-4b65-bf35-1caa86c46b5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melinda McGarvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, frustrated or misunderstood? Do you ever feel exhausted or resentful from trying to make sure everyone else is happy, trying to keep from rocking the boat and putting your own needs last? Are you a high-achiever who has met all the qualifications and still feels nagging self-doubt? If you want to feel safer and more comfortable in your interactions with others, I would like to help you understand your emotions and improve balance and connection in your relationships. My therapy style is open, warm and collaborative, and I create space for you to feel truly accepted, present and hopeful.
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, frustrated or misunderstood? Do you ever feel exhausted or resentful from trying to make sure everyone else is happy, trying to keep from rocking the boat and putting your own needs last? Are you a high-achiever who has met all the qualifications and still feels nagging self-doubt? If you want to feel safer and more comfortable in your interactions with others, I would like to help you understand your emotions and improve balance and connection in your relationships. My therapy style is open, warm and collaborative, and I create space for you to feel truly accepted, present and hopeful.
![Photo of Anna Clay Bailey, MA, LPC, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54b5f80d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Clay Bailey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
I understand that reaching out to schedule the initial therapy session can be intimidating. For this reason, my priority in session is to provide a safe and confidential therapeutic space for my clients in which they can share their challenges and feel heard and understood. My counseling experience includes assisting individuals with life transitions, anxiety, communication skills, depression, stress management, relationship difficulties, and addictive behaviors. I have worked in a variety of settings, including private practice, hospice care, mental health agencies, schools, and out-patient substance abuse treatment settings.
I understand that reaching out to schedule the initial therapy session can be intimidating. For this reason, my priority in session is to provide a safe and confidential therapeutic space for my clients in which they can share their challenges and feel heard and understood. My counseling experience includes assisting individuals with life transitions, anxiety, communication skills, depression, stress management, relationship difficulties, and addictive behaviors. I have worked in a variety of settings, including private practice, hospice care, mental health agencies, schools, and out-patient substance abuse treatment settings.
![Photo of Michelle Williams - Wellness Bliss, LPC, LCPC, PhD, MFT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ff97b80-e9c6-45a6-8122-9c08033c419c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wellness Bliss
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Counseling/Therapy Services - Our compassionate team of therapists and coaches specialize in assisting individuals navigating through diverse life transitions. Whether you're facing career shifts, relationship adjustments, or personal growth journeys, our experts provide personalized support to empower you every step of the way. We believe in an integrative approach combining evidence-based therapies, mindfulness practices, and wellness techniques to promote balance, resilience, and inner peace.
Counseling/Therapy Services - Our compassionate team of therapists and coaches specialize in assisting individuals navigating through diverse life transitions. Whether you're facing career shifts, relationship adjustments, or personal growth journeys, our experts provide personalized support to empower you every step of the way. We believe in an integrative approach combining evidence-based therapies, mindfulness practices, and wellness techniques to promote balance, resilience, and inner peace.
![Photo of John Louis Ehlers III, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4029c13-e48b-4ab6-a066-737ed11698f8/2/320x400.jpeg)
John Louis Ehlers III
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Over the past 15 years I have learned that the change process is collaborative and requires a unified focus between therapist and client. In therapy, the most positive outcomes occur when we develop a healthy therapeutic relationship and focus on the same goals. Building this relationship allows both therapist and client to feel comfortable while cultivating positive change. I practice from a wellness perspective that states everything we experience throughout our lives is a natural part of our development as individuals. I will meet you wherever you may be emotionally knowing that your life's journey has brought you to this place.
Over the past 15 years I have learned that the change process is collaborative and requires a unified focus between therapist and client. In therapy, the most positive outcomes occur when we develop a healthy therapeutic relationship and focus on the same goals. Building this relationship allows both therapist and client to feel comfortable while cultivating positive change. I practice from a wellness perspective that states everything we experience throughout our lives is a natural part of our development as individuals. I will meet you wherever you may be emotionally knowing that your life's journey has brought you to this place.
![Photo of Megan Fiore, PsyD, RPT-S, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6577a7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have spent my career working with persons across the lifespan, providing individual, group, family, parent-child, and couples therapy. My therapeutic approach focuses on using your strengths to help you develop coping strategies for difficulties you are experiencing. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and the value of hearing your story. My commitment to you includes a belief that things can and will begin to get better. Much of my work has been with trauma survivors, and I have witnessed and been humbled by the power of resiliency and posttraumatic growth.
I have spent my career working with persons across the lifespan, providing individual, group, family, parent-child, and couples therapy. My therapeutic approach focuses on using your strengths to help you develop coping strategies for difficulties you are experiencing. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and the value of hearing your story. My commitment to you includes a belief that things can and will begin to get better. Much of my work has been with trauma survivors, and I have witnessed and been humbled by the power of resiliency and posttraumatic growth.
![Photo of Jasmine Felder, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12e1926e-cc40-4c03-8b43-f08b11e4183d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jasmine Felder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is a personal journey that requires safety and trust. No two journeys are the same, but I believe every journey is worth it. I would be honored to join you as you embark or continue your therapy journey and progress down your own path. I have over five years of experience working with Adults in the Northern Virginia area with an array of diagnoses including depression, anxiety, substance use, personality disorders, and symptoms of psychosis.
Therapy is a personal journey that requires safety and trust. No two journeys are the same, but I believe every journey is worth it. I would be honored to join you as you embark or continue your therapy journey and progress down your own path. I have over five years of experience working with Adults in the Northern Virginia area with an array of diagnoses including depression, anxiety, substance use, personality disorders, and symptoms of psychosis.
![Photo of Lenée N. Essig, LCSW, SEP, LFYP-1, ACHP-SW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef2994b3-76fb-48d2-b81b-443b045cbfbd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lenée N. Essig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, LFYP-1, ACHP-SW, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22301 (Online Only)
Sometimes we just need a safe space to collect our thoughts, name our hurts, explore our desires and work through our fears. I can offer you a space of hope and reprieve. Together, you and I, will work through the anxiety and sadness that is overshadowing your life, and not allowing you to live the full and authentic life that you desire. I work from a cognitive behavioral modality and somatic (body-centered) approach, while emphasizing mindfulness and eastern philosophy.
Sometimes we just need a safe space to collect our thoughts, name our hurts, explore our desires and work through our fears. I can offer you a space of hope and reprieve. Together, you and I, will work through the anxiety and sadness that is overshadowing your life, and not allowing you to live the full and authentic life that you desire. I work from a cognitive behavioral modality and somatic (body-centered) approach, while emphasizing mindfulness and eastern philosophy.
![Photo of Gabriella Iskin, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11f42a68-c874-4f1d-a2a6-470726beaaab/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you find yourself seeking therapy, it could be due to changes in your daily life that are causing disruption or dissatisfaction. It may be a new stressor, unresolved difficulties from your past, or a desire to gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Engaging in therapy can be a healing and transformative process, paving the way to gain satisfaction in your life. Guided by compassion and trust, I take a collaborative and multicultural approach to create a safe space for this exploration.
If you find yourself seeking therapy, it could be due to changes in your daily life that are causing disruption or dissatisfaction. It may be a new stressor, unresolved difficulties from your past, or a desire to gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Engaging in therapy can be a healing and transformative process, paving the way to gain satisfaction in your life. Guided by compassion and trust, I take a collaborative and multicultural approach to create a safe space for this exploration.
![Photo of Linda D Harding, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be7dffd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Linda D Harding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22306
Life can be difficult. If you feel like you're overwhelmed, stressed and anxious, and can't seem to find happiness, I'd like to help you find some balance in your life. Your willingness to explore your thoughts and feelings about yourself and unhappy situations can be extremely empowering. I work in a collaborative and interactive manner to help guide you toward two primary goals--first, to identify and resolve the immediate problems presented, and then to develop psychological tools that can be used after completion of the therapeutic sessions.
Life can be difficult. If you feel like you're overwhelmed, stressed and anxious, and can't seem to find happiness, I'd like to help you find some balance in your life. Your willingness to explore your thoughts and feelings about yourself and unhappy situations can be extremely empowering. I work in a collaborative and interactive manner to help guide you toward two primary goals--first, to identify and resolve the immediate problems presented, and then to develop psychological tools that can be used after completion of the therapeutic sessions.
![Photo of Sean Graham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b7b641-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an LCSW with 20+ years of experience working with adolescents and adults to assist them in addressing life's problems. I believe on focusing on the here and now and how to make you live life to its fullest. If you are struggling and are looking for some help with coping, I welcome the opportunity to learn about your story and join you on the expedition. My goal is to help you heal, and we can explore and identify personal goals to improve your life.
I am an LCSW with 20+ years of experience working with adolescents and adults to assist them in addressing life's problems. I believe on focusing on the here and now and how to make you live life to its fullest. If you are struggling and are looking for some help with coping, I welcome the opportunity to learn about your story and join you on the expedition. My goal is to help you heal, and we can explore and identify personal goals to improve your life.
![Photo of Lauren Smith-Papke, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3babaa2d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a clinical psychologist, who enjoys working with adults across the lifespan in individual psychotherapy. I have worked with many different types of individuals in day treatment, community mental health, and counseling center settings; I have also worked at The Women's Center as a therapist and supervisor of graduate students for the past 9 years. I strive to understand each client as a complex individual, and work with the client to clarify the nature of their difficulties, identify strengths and resources, and engage together in the process of increased insight and change.
I am a clinical psychologist, who enjoys working with adults across the lifespan in individual psychotherapy. I have worked with many different types of individuals in day treatment, community mental health, and counseling center settings; I have also worked at The Women's Center as a therapist and supervisor of graduate students for the past 9 years. I strive to understand each client as a complex individual, and work with the client to clarify the nature of their difficulties, identify strengths and resources, and engage together in the process of increased insight and change.
15 Second Videos
Melinda McGarvey
Wellness Bliss
Jordan L. Costen
Brandy Suchyta
Hugh Pinnock
Adam C. Prestegord
Holly Hartson
Rebecca Loesberg
Ashley Patrican
Susan Jedd
Mary Calvert Speech Therapy Old Town Alexandria
Heather Sullivan
Jessica Venglarcik
India Edusei
Belonging Counseling Psychotherapy Group Practice
Healthy Minds Therapy
Khadeja Mousa
Lori Ward
Amanda E. Thompson
Harumi Sanchez-Yoza
Dyanna Citizen
Carolyn Stephanie Alvarado
Georgie A Whatmore
Lauren Fisher
Valerie L. Johnson
Michael Payne
Amoya Robinson
Sammy Kirk
Jeffrey A Brentley
Diane Bonilla
Jennifer Redlin
Rachel Dougherty
Suzanne Cooper
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Alexandria
Morgan Canner
Finding Clarity
Antonio White
Jenna Budreau
Susan Ross
Emma Hacker
Nicole Moriarty: Complete Trauma Resolution
Alycia Burant
Kimberly Folden
Elizabeth Hussey, LPC, Clinical Supervisor
Amanda M McLean
Salus Vita, LLC
Anna Eng
Counseling of Alexandria, LLC
Hannah Shahabi
Higher Life Pathways Counseling Services
![Photo of Soyini A Richards, PhD, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ab627ae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you stuck? Do you need help balancing your spiritual life, family and career? I utilize the tools I have acquired from: God, experience as a Christian psychotherapist, years practicing as a school psychologist, degrees in Counseling Psychology & Business Psychology, consulting practice, and the over 20 years as a professor to lead you on the path God created you to live. I coach you through life's ups, downs and turn arounds to live your best life.
Are you stuck? Do you need help balancing your spiritual life, family and career? I utilize the tools I have acquired from: God, experience as a Christian psychotherapist, years practicing as a school psychologist, degrees in Counseling Psychology & Business Psychology, consulting practice, and the over 20 years as a professor to lead you on the path God created you to live. I coach you through life's ups, downs and turn arounds to live your best life.
![Photo of Tamara Dozier, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f990167-fad3-4eb9-bbf7-66092bc89a14/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tamara Dozier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314 (Online Only)
The therapeutic process can be daunting and vulnerable, but my goal is to journey with you, providing complete support as you seek balance and fulfillment in your life. Witnessing individuals uncover better, truer versions of themselves as they learn how to manage and tend to old wounds and build confidence is the most rewarding part of my work as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am a curious, inquisitive person by nature who loves to laugh, explore, take risks, dive deep, and connect with others. This inherent nature makes therapy a natural fit for me.
The therapeutic process can be daunting and vulnerable, but my goal is to journey with you, providing complete support as you seek balance and fulfillment in your life. Witnessing individuals uncover better, truer versions of themselves as they learn how to manage and tend to old wounds and build confidence is the most rewarding part of my work as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am a curious, inquisitive person by nature who loves to laugh, explore, take risks, dive deep, and connect with others. This inherent nature makes therapy a natural fit for me.
![Photo of Shana Storms, LPC, LSATP, NCC, ICGC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee69acb5-4f0f-4c4a-baa9-3da7053ff870/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shana Storms
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP, NCC, ICGC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314 (Online Only)
Change can be frightening but exhilarating as well. As a psychotherapist helping people cope with various obstacles in life, I have come to believe we all have the potential to be successful and possess the tools we need to achieve our goals. The pace and direction will be up to you. I will help you think about your life issues and concerns differently and together we will develop strategies to handle them more effectively.
Change can be frightening but exhilarating as well. As a psychotherapist helping people cope with various obstacles in life, I have come to believe we all have the potential to be successful and possess the tools we need to achieve our goals. The pace and direction will be up to you. I will help you think about your life issues and concerns differently and together we will develop strategies to handle them more effectively.
![Photo of Jade Sanders, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88b460f9-513c-4935-b1da-cd974961ad24/2/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new clients. My name is Jade Sanders, and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. In therapy, you can expect a safe, non-judgmental space where we work collaboratively to address your needs. With extensive experience working with various populations and addressing a wide range of issues, I specialize in guiding individuals through major life transitions, such as moving into adulthood. I particularly enjoy providing ongoing treatment to individuals with trauma, racial distress, and unresolved issues that stem from childhood or past relationships.
Now accepting new clients. My name is Jade Sanders, and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. In therapy, you can expect a safe, non-judgmental space where we work collaboratively to address your needs. With extensive experience working with various populations and addressing a wide range of issues, I specialize in guiding individuals through major life transitions, such as moving into adulthood. I particularly enjoy providing ongoing treatment to individuals with trauma, racial distress, and unresolved issues that stem from childhood or past relationships.
![Photo of Tameka M Tucker, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3db2a63d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
The most important goal of providing services is the ability to develop a rapport with my clients in a meaningful way....I work to facilitate the process and assist them in working through challenging situations and developing new insights.
The most important goal of providing services is the ability to develop a rapport with my clients in a meaningful way....I work to facilitate the process and assist them in working through challenging situations and developing new insights.
![Photo of William “Will” Brown, RIC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8baa509-b74f-4c80-b63b-02ff29cd69ce/2/320x400.jpeg)
The decision to start therapy is a major step on the path to improving your life and making constructive changes. As a compassionate therapist, my goal is to learn your story, explore your challenges and give you the tools to achieve meaningful progress on your journey. While I am open to helping anyone, I prioritize first responders, military members and veterans, healthcare workers, offices(s) of emergency management, federal government employees, NGO employees who work in the humanitarian relief space, members of the press who work in conflict zones, and whistleblowers.
The decision to start therapy is a major step on the path to improving your life and making constructive changes. As a compassionate therapist, my goal is to learn your story, explore your challenges and give you the tools to achieve meaningful progress on your journey. While I am open to helping anyone, I prioritize first responders, military members and veterans, healthcare workers, offices(s) of emergency management, federal government employees, NGO employees who work in the humanitarian relief space, members of the press who work in conflict zones, and whistleblowers.
![Photo of Lisa Babb, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbdd024e-21c5-4fe1-8ea0-2ee86bc0e15d/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are looking for a safe space to explore your feelings, process grief, heal from trauma, or just navigate this messy, beautiful thing we call life, then I might be a good fit. Growth happens in connection, and I strive to create a strong therapeutic relationship where clients feel safe, supported, and resilient. I work with teens and adults managing issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationship dynamics, and loss. I have advanced training in perinatal mental health and lived experience with birth-related trauma. I am neurodiversity-affirming and a queer ally.
If you are looking for a safe space to explore your feelings, process grief, heal from trauma, or just navigate this messy, beautiful thing we call life, then I might be a good fit. Growth happens in connection, and I strive to create a strong therapeutic relationship where clients feel safe, supported, and resilient. I work with teens and adults managing issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationship dynamics, and loss. I have advanced training in perinatal mental health and lived experience with birth-related trauma. I am neurodiversity-affirming and a queer ally.
![Photo of Christy Heyn, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4fcc405-1359-46f8-8463-7f431fd2e635/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christy Heyn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314 (Online Only)
Therapy is a space to develop strengths and resources, as well as examine problems and pain. Clients work on both their strengths and struggles in my practice. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with twelve years of experience working in a variety of settings within the mental health field to include residential/educational programs for at-risk adolescents and in private practice working with individuals and families facing so many of life's challenges. I believe in working together to address the distress you're experiencing (depression, anxiety, trauma, or inter-personal issues) and to build resilience and restore hope.
Therapy is a space to develop strengths and resources, as well as examine problems and pain. Clients work on both their strengths and struggles in my practice. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with twelve years of experience working in a variety of settings within the mental health field to include residential/educational programs for at-risk adolescents and in private practice working with individuals and families facing so many of life's challenges. I believe in working together to address the distress you're experiencing (depression, anxiety, trauma, or inter-personal issues) and to build resilience and restore hope.
![Photo of Jordan L. Costen, MSW, QMHP-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/661e8aeb-13a4-47f4-9cf1-f3e0a4574804/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jordan L. Costen
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW, QMHP-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22304
Well, hello. I am glad you decided to meet. Let me pour you some tea or coffee and let’s discuss what is on your mind. Sometimes it can be pretty difficult to seek out help. Especially for those who either thought they didn’t need it or were convinced that their issues are manageable. That often occurs with members of the LGBTQ+ community. Regardless, you took the first step, as difficult as it may have been. As a next step I want to work with you and build trust. Once that has been established and you feel comfortable, we can address the items that cause you concern.
Well, hello. I am glad you decided to meet. Let me pour you some tea or coffee and let’s discuss what is on your mind. Sometimes it can be pretty difficult to seek out help. Especially for those who either thought they didn’t need it or were convinced that their issues are manageable. That often occurs with members of the LGBTQ+ community. Regardless, you took the first step, as difficult as it may have been. As a next step I want to work with you and build trust. Once that has been established and you feel comfortable, we can address the items that cause you concern.
See more therapy options for Alexandria
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Alexandria, VA
1,000+
Average cost per session
$160
Therapists in Alexandria, VA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
77% | Self Esteem |
77% | Stress |
73% | Relationship Issues |
71% | Coping Skills |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
74% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
71% | Cigna and Evernorth |
67% | Aetna |
How Therapists in Alexandria, VA see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
86% | Female | |
13% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Alexandria?
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.