Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA
![Photo of Rebecca Velasquez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b2b5a14-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Velasquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Anxious or burned out? Seeking greater life purpose rather than just getting by in life? Time to step into your best, most authentic self! For over 15+ years, Rebecca has treated teens & adult clients with: anxiety, college/life transitions, pre-postpartum issues, addiction recovery, parenting issues, etc. Rebecca is solution-focused & psychodynamic in her approach and utilize various modalities including CBT/DBT tools, mindfulness, and creative body-based approaches. Whether you are a high school/college student, career professional, parent or spouse, being an adult can often feel stressful and challenging. Rebecca can help.
Anxious or burned out? Seeking greater life purpose rather than just getting by in life? Time to step into your best, most authentic self! For over 15+ years, Rebecca has treated teens & adult clients with: anxiety, college/life transitions, pre-postpartum issues, addiction recovery, parenting issues, etc. Rebecca is solution-focused & psychodynamic in her approach and utilize various modalities including CBT/DBT tools, mindfulness, and creative body-based approaches. Whether you are a high school/college student, career professional, parent or spouse, being an adult can often feel stressful and challenging. Rebecca can help.
![Photo of Erin Lindvall, PhD, LMFT, FAPA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44eae046-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Lindvall
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, FAPA
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I love my work as a psychotherapist, and consider it an honor and privilege to work with my clients and share in their quest for personal growth. I know that the decision to start therapy is often a difficult one. I applaud your willingness and initiative. My approach aims to engage, to inspire, and to help you imagine new possibilities. My goal is to assist you in developing tools and skills that enable you to more effectively deal with life and its challenges.
I love my work as a psychotherapist, and consider it an honor and privilege to work with my clients and share in their quest for personal growth. I know that the decision to start therapy is often a difficult one. I applaud your willingness and initiative. My approach aims to engage, to inspire, and to help you imagine new possibilities. My goal is to assist you in developing tools and skills that enable you to more effectively deal with life and its challenges.
![Photo of Jennifer Hajdu, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd6fd654-c508-431f-b3e1-cb194bc90f05/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Hajdu
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Jennifer is a therapist for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
Jennifer is a therapist for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
![Photo of Kristina Paramore, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a4c92f5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! My name is Kristina and Congratulations on possibly your first step towards reaching your goals. Has life become too overwhelming? Confused about what your next step is or how to overcome a current life challenge and feel as if you are stuck? Therapy can be a great starting point. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist practicing since 2010; working with individuals, couples, families and teens.
Hi! My name is Kristina and Congratulations on possibly your first step towards reaching your goals. Has life become too overwhelming? Confused about what your next step is or how to overcome a current life challenge and feel as if you are stuck? Therapy can be a great starting point. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist practicing since 2010; working with individuals, couples, families and teens.
![Photo of Vanessa Swier, MSW, LCSW, GC-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44919c52-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Vanessa Swier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, GC-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Do you feel emotionally stuck? Are you a stuffer? You know, someone who hides your true feelings so you appear "okay" on the outside. Then, let me join you on your journey of feeling & healing. Healing is a process, an ongoing discovery & I'm here to help you uncover hope, find harmony & move towards healing. I'll support you in processing your feelings in order to live your most authentic life. Since earning my BA in Psychology and my Master of Social Work degree, I have worked passionately with individuals, couples, families, adults, college students & teens to learn positive ways to cope with life's many stressors.
Do you feel emotionally stuck? Are you a stuffer? You know, someone who hides your true feelings so you appear "okay" on the outside. Then, let me join you on your journey of feeling & healing. Healing is a process, an ongoing discovery & I'm here to help you uncover hope, find harmony & move towards healing. I'll support you in processing your feelings in order to live your most authentic life. Since earning my BA in Psychology and my Master of Social Work degree, I have worked passionately with individuals, couples, families, adults, college students & teens to learn positive ways to cope with life's many stressors.
![Photo of Cristy Chavez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f652b79-3205-4442-94cc-bc1542228c4d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cristy Chavez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Life creates obstacles causing painful emotions, confusion, and disconnection. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, body image, an eating disorder, or daily coping skills, you might wonder how you will overcome such obstacles. With my unique approach to therapy, we will focus on your personal strengths, identify unconscious patterned behaviors, and guide you to a more fulfilling life. My mission is to encourage all beings to fearlessly honor who they are, find the tools necessary to freely live as the person they want to be, and to engage in their relationships with true connection.
Life creates obstacles causing painful emotions, confusion, and disconnection. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, body image, an eating disorder, or daily coping skills, you might wonder how you will overcome such obstacles. With my unique approach to therapy, we will focus on your personal strengths, identify unconscious patterned behaviors, and guide you to a more fulfilling life. My mission is to encourage all beings to fearlessly honor who they are, find the tools necessary to freely live as the person they want to be, and to engage in their relationships with true connection.
![Photo of Melissa DePoorter, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af6aa4cc-bedb-42b3-a3f6-bf69e8cae599/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am one of several psychologists working at Central Coast Evaluation Services, a practice committed to providing comprehensive psychological evaluations. I provide assessment services in various areas, including cognitive/intellectual, memory, personality, psychopathology, and diagnostic clarification.
I am one of several psychologists working at Central Coast Evaluation Services, a practice committed to providing comprehensive psychological evaluations. I provide assessment services in various areas, including cognitive/intellectual, memory, personality, psychopathology, and diagnostic clarification.
![Photo of Marina Resa, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/511d80b3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marina Resa
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
The needs of others come before your own? Sometimes, as children, we fundamentally altered who we were to adjust to trauma, role-reversals, and cold parenting. This can create an underdeveloped sense of self or we are sensitive the slightest shifts in the moods of others. Relationships are scary. When happiness finally starts to seep in, an overwhelming fear sets in that it will all collapse & disappear.
The needs of others come before your own? Sometimes, as children, we fundamentally altered who we were to adjust to trauma, role-reversals, and cold parenting. This can create an underdeveloped sense of self or we are sensitive the slightest shifts in the moods of others. Relationships are scary. When happiness finally starts to seep in, an overwhelming fear sets in that it will all collapse & disappear.
![Photo of Summer Myers, LMFT, IMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3763ded0-82bc-42ca-b1b3-b975d01cf2dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Summer Myers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 (Online Only)
Anxiety, shame, and chronic guilt; you don’t know how to relax, and you probably don’t sleep very well. The perfectionism is crippling, and you're exhausted. Maybe you're a people-pleaser with terrible boundaries, or a former “gifted and talented” kid, or a child of immigrants always reaching for "good enough." Your inner critic is loud. Anxious perfectionism may also show up as body tension and panic attacks; procrastination and indecision; an overwhelming to-do list; and difficulty in relationships. Perfectionists don't already do things perfectly—they feel like they HAVE to do better, but they’re ALWAYS falling short.
Anxiety, shame, and chronic guilt; you don’t know how to relax, and you probably don’t sleep very well. The perfectionism is crippling, and you're exhausted. Maybe you're a people-pleaser with terrible boundaries, or a former “gifted and talented” kid, or a child of immigrants always reaching for "good enough." Your inner critic is loud. Anxious perfectionism may also show up as body tension and panic attacks; procrastination and indecision; an overwhelming to-do list; and difficulty in relationships. Perfectionists don't already do things perfectly—they feel like they HAVE to do better, but they’re ALWAYS falling short.
![Photo of Dawn Sweeney Kniep, MS, LCMFT, CHC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba87bd3c-3500-4cef-bacf-189dd5f8018b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dawn Sweeney Kniep
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, CHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
It can be overwhelming to try to find a therapist when everything else in your life is demanding your attention and resources; I am here to help. It is crucial that a client connects with their therapist and the process of finding that right fit can be daunting; I work towards a comfortable connection with my clients so their time in therapy is an easily accessible resource of safety for the transparency needed for change. I approach my clients with compassion and directness so as to better facilitate their desired change both mindfully and pragmatically. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
It can be overwhelming to try to find a therapist when everything else in your life is demanding your attention and resources; I am here to help. It is crucial that a client connects with their therapist and the process of finding that right fit can be daunting; I work towards a comfortable connection with my clients so their time in therapy is an easily accessible resource of safety for the transparency needed for change. I approach my clients with compassion and directness so as to better facilitate their desired change both mindfully and pragmatically. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
![Photo of Denise C Williamson - Denise C Williamson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cdb13b8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
Denise C Williamson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self-worth, or having relationship problems? Or, perhaps you just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life? Together we can focus on your healing, replacing any negative patterns, and promoting a more positive future. You deserve support and guidance towards achieving your dreams. I invite you to visit my website at www.brighterlifestyle.com.
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self-worth, or having relationship problems? Or, perhaps you just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life? Together we can focus on your healing, replacing any negative patterns, and promoting a more positive future. You deserve support and guidance towards achieving your dreams. I invite you to visit my website at www.brighterlifestyle.com.
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![Photo of Ellen Morgan Jones, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5001eebe-aa3c-43f5-9686-2e91ab4135fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ellen Morgan Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I am a passionate nature enthusiast and Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are interested in furthering their development and reaching a deeper understanding of their own, authentic being. I believe that we are more than our emotions and behaviors–we are complex people that require introspection and the honor of a unique and individualized path to healing. Through the exploration of stories and patterns (both current and past), I assist clients in coming into a deeper understanding and ease with the self.
I am a passionate nature enthusiast and Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are interested in furthering their development and reaching a deeper understanding of their own, authentic being. I believe that we are more than our emotions and behaviors–we are complex people that require introspection and the honor of a unique and individualized path to healing. Through the exploration of stories and patterns (both current and past), I assist clients in coming into a deeper understanding and ease with the self.
![Photo of Maria Castellano-Hsia, JD, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61c6bde3-fd9a-4863-93db-aed7e0784fc5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Castellano-Hsia
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Are you feeling like you are in a big life transition? Struggling with anxiety or depression?, Experiencing a big loss? Desiring to better communicate and connect with your loved ones? I provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space to explore and experience your inner life paying attention to what is essential. I practice from a depth somatic psychotherapy frame. I introduce psychodynamic and somatic method working directly in and through your body including mindfulness, breath work, conversation, imagination and humor. In my work exploration, promotes insight and awareness, emotional healing, and spiritual transformation
Are you feeling like you are in a big life transition? Struggling with anxiety or depression?, Experiencing a big loss? Desiring to better communicate and connect with your loved ones? I provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space to explore and experience your inner life paying attention to what is essential. I practice from a depth somatic psychotherapy frame. I introduce psychodynamic and somatic method working directly in and through your body including mindfulness, breath work, conversation, imagination and humor. In my work exploration, promotes insight and awareness, emotional healing, and spiritual transformation
![Photo of Isaiah Moore - ConnectUs, MA, BA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3989368-0a39-444b-af7e-5f279c2e9eee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Imagine a thriving business struggling with high employee turnover, low morale, and inefficient processes. The leadership team feels overwhelmed by these complex issues and seeks solutions to enhance productivity, boost employee satisfaction, and streamline operations. They want to create a positive work environment where their team can excel and achieve long-term success. Their ultimate goal is to transform their workplace into a hub of innovation and engagement, ensuring sustained growth and competitive advantage.
Imagine a thriving business struggling with high employee turnover, low morale, and inefficient processes. The leadership team feels overwhelmed by these complex issues and seeks solutions to enhance productivity, boost employee satisfaction, and streamline operations. They want to create a positive work environment where their team can excel and achieve long-term success. Their ultimate goal is to transform their workplace into a hub of innovation and engagement, ensuring sustained growth and competitive advantage.
![Photo of Laurel Olvera, PhD, MS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2347b162-e76d-458c-a63e-e73dd9e38bb0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California with 23 years of professional work experience. My mission is to deliver life-changing care to teens, adults, families, couples and geriatric individuals who experience a wide array of mental health conditions and current life challenges. Such as: traumatic stress, struggles with feeling scattered and not accomplishing your goals, managing emotions, challenging negative thinking, and reducing stress and anxiety. Today's world can be intense and stressful, and it's taking an unprecedented toll on kids, teens, adults, couples and families.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California with 23 years of professional work experience. My mission is to deliver life-changing care to teens, adults, families, couples and geriatric individuals who experience a wide array of mental health conditions and current life challenges. Such as: traumatic stress, struggles with feeling scattered and not accomplishing your goals, managing emotions, challenging negative thinking, and reducing stress and anxiety. Today's world can be intense and stressful, and it's taking an unprecedented toll on kids, teens, adults, couples and families.
![Photo of Erica Collins, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48df2cd2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Suffering is a common human experience, but I notice that the individuals who seek support during these times are the ones who typically grow. It is one of my greatest joys in life to watch individuals, couples, and families pursue lasting growth and change. As a therapist I provide a comfortable, safe environment for individuals, couples, and families to grow and work towards their goals.
Suffering is a common human experience, but I notice that the individuals who seek support during these times are the ones who typically grow. It is one of my greatest joys in life to watch individuals, couples, and families pursue lasting growth and change. As a therapist I provide a comfortable, safe environment for individuals, couples, and families to grow and work towards their goals.
![Photo of Marie Schur, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d9ae00c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marie Schur
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is someone who approaches their challenges with a readiness to confront and understand themselves on a profound level. They courageously grapple with issues surrounding mood, trauma, and stress, demonstrating a genuine willingness to engage in the therapeutic process. Their overarching goal is clear – they aspire to enhance their lives, seeking a path toward greater well-being and authenticity.
My ideal client is someone who approaches their challenges with a readiness to confront and understand themselves on a profound level. They courageously grapple with issues surrounding mood, trauma, and stress, demonstrating a genuine willingness to engage in the therapeutic process. Their overarching goal is clear – they aspire to enhance their lives, seeking a path toward greater well-being and authenticity.
![Photo of Saxen J. Martin-Jensen, APCC, CADC II, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ced16a19-2bd1-4216-aa2f-5255560558d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Saxen J. Martin-Jensen
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC, CADC II, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
You're not alone, and you can count on my support. Together, we can tackle challenges, surmount obstacles, and achieve the goals you've set for yourself. Many have faced setbacks while seeking support and may feel hesitant to try again, but you're important, and you deserve a life filled with joy and fulfillment. Occasionally, happiness seems elusive, and we may feel adrift or uncertain. Sometimes, we know the solutions but require assistance in embracing them. I'm here to aid your healing and growth. Together, we'll cultivate skills that uplift and motivate you. Remember, you're deserving of this journey. I can't wait to meet you!
You're not alone, and you can count on my support. Together, we can tackle challenges, surmount obstacles, and achieve the goals you've set for yourself. Many have faced setbacks while seeking support and may feel hesitant to try again, but you're important, and you deserve a life filled with joy and fulfillment. Occasionally, happiness seems elusive, and we may feel adrift or uncertain. Sometimes, we know the solutions but require assistance in embracing them. I'm here to aid your healing and growth. Together, we'll cultivate skills that uplift and motivate you. Remember, you're deserving of this journey. I can't wait to meet you!
![Photo of Ryan Lubock, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/531b0598-5641-498f-9afb-e94e0a2a8801/1/320x400.jpeg)
Individual therapy will focus on the root causes of your suffering by examining how your past informs your present. More concretely this may look like examining different relationship patterns that you find yourself falling into and how you cope with the challenges in your life. In fact, the relationship that forms between yourself and the therapist serves as a tool to help change the way you relate to others outside of the office.
Individual therapy will focus on the root causes of your suffering by examining how your past informs your present. More concretely this may look like examining different relationship patterns that you find yourself falling into and how you cope with the challenges in your life. In fact, the relationship that forms between yourself and the therapist serves as a tool to help change the way you relate to others outside of the office.
![Photo of Shanti Holistic Healing, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bc62e8a-08f4-4dbe-a618-d87fa069d110/2/320x400.jpeg)
My intention is to create a compassionate, curious, and collaborative space for you to receive emotional, mental and spiritual support. Together, we can holistically acknowledge core roots of pain and consciously move towards shifting old cycles that no longer serve your highest self. My passion is to remind you of your innate wisdom and with humility, empower you to be the narrator of your life. I commit to encourage and challenge you to liberate your authentic voice and remember your birthright to joy. I understand each person is a unique being and pride myself on individualizing care to meet your present needs.
My intention is to create a compassionate, curious, and collaborative space for you to receive emotional, mental and spiritual support. Together, we can holistically acknowledge core roots of pain and consciously move towards shifting old cycles that no longer serve your highest self. My passion is to remind you of your innate wisdom and with humility, empower you to be the narrator of your life. I commit to encourage and challenge you to liberate your authentic voice and remember your birthright to joy. I understand each person is a unique being and pride myself on individualizing care to meet your present needs.
See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo
Nearby Searches for San Luis Obispo
- Arroyo Grande
- Atascadero
- Avila Beach
- Grover Beach
- Los Osos
- Morro Bay
- Nipomo
- Paso Robles
- Pismo Beach
- Santa Maria
- Shell Beach
- Templeton
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA
400+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
85% | Depression |
78% | Relationship Issues |
76% | Self Esteem |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Coping Skills |
65% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
51% | Aetna |
37% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
37% | Other |
How Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
17% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in San Luis Obispo?
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.