Therapists in McLean, VA
![Photo of Monique J Deely, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/467aa815-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
An awareness of our inner state of being and how to connect with the stillness is an important part of our journey to wellness and well-being. I offer this to all of my clients. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 22 years of experience working with children, adolescents and their families in residential treatment, outpatient behavioral health and hospice care. I have also worked with adults providing individual, couples therapy, and hospice care. For 10 years, I have worked with military families in the D.C. area addressing issues around military life, deployment, resilience, and mental health.
An awareness of our inner state of being and how to connect with the stillness is an important part of our journey to wellness and well-being. I offer this to all of my clients. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 22 years of experience working with children, adolescents and their families in residential treatment, outpatient behavioral health and hospice care. I have also worked with adults providing individual, couples therapy, and hospice care. For 10 years, I have worked with military families in the D.C. area addressing issues around military life, deployment, resilience, and mental health.
![Photo of Melonye Cleveland - Sunstone Counseling, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbd9cf46-efba-4073-b5e0-1a4005214b70/3/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting clients. To empower individuals so that they may live a resilient, fulfilled life is my goal. I am passionate about helping others cope with day to day stressors and the anxieties of life. I am a strong proponent of the power that counseling can have on the individual. I believe that it can be life-changing, and that through individual and group counseling, an individual can learn the power of honesty, empathy and self-acceptance.
Now accepting clients. To empower individuals so that they may live a resilient, fulfilled life is my goal. I am passionate about helping others cope with day to day stressors and the anxieties of life. I am a strong proponent of the power that counseling can have on the individual. I believe that it can be life-changing, and that through individual and group counseling, an individual can learn the power of honesty, empathy and self-acceptance.
![Photo of Dr. Demi Maglio, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33c3cc1d-29e6-4ceb-a3c2-70b38f1fb161/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Evolvinn Therapy who works with individuals across the lifespan who are living with chronic health conditions and adjusting to new medical diagnoses. I also specialize in the areas of chronic pain management, infertility, grief/loss, trauma, postpartum anxiety and depression, eating disorders, and sleep disorders. Having developed a deep understanding of the mind-body connection, I aim to help my clients live a meaningful life that is guided by their values while meeting complex medical and mental health challenges.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Evolvinn Therapy who works with individuals across the lifespan who are living with chronic health conditions and adjusting to new medical diagnoses. I also specialize in the areas of chronic pain management, infertility, grief/loss, trauma, postpartum anxiety and depression, eating disorders, and sleep disorders. Having developed a deep understanding of the mind-body connection, I aim to help my clients live a meaningful life that is guided by their values while meeting complex medical and mental health challenges.
![Photo of Jan Lynn Watkins, JD, MBA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d3ee74f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jan Lynn Watkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MBA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
I am interested in supporting you on your journey of self discovery and growth. By clearing negative emotional charges and programming from past experiences, it is possible to create a life with more possibilities and choices. You can rediscover your strengths and interests and allow more peace, joy and playfulness into your life. I can assist you in eliminating limiting thoughts, beliefs and negative emotions! I will help you clear the path that leads to the life you choose. www.janwatkins.com
I am interested in supporting you on your journey of self discovery and growth. By clearing negative emotional charges and programming from past experiences, it is possible to create a life with more possibilities and choices. You can rediscover your strengths and interests and allow more peace, joy and playfulness into your life. I can assist you in eliminating limiting thoughts, beliefs and negative emotions! I will help you clear the path that leads to the life you choose. www.janwatkins.com
![Photo of Holly Farris, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0d9bcb8-67f0-4219-a11c-fe0df77c6b9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a former NCAA Division 1 Athlete, I have a passion for working with athletes at all levels. After over a decade of coaching at the youth and collegiate levels and witnessing the life struggles of my teammates and players, I decided to switch sides of the field to work with athletes outside of the lines. Life off the field impacts performance on the field. If you find yourself feeling more stressed than usual, not performing as well as you would like, or have experienced a case of the “yips” and want to return to peak performance, let’s talk.
As a former NCAA Division 1 Athlete, I have a passion for working with athletes at all levels. After over a decade of coaching at the youth and collegiate levels and witnessing the life struggles of my teammates and players, I decided to switch sides of the field to work with athletes outside of the lines. Life off the field impacts performance on the field. If you find yourself feeling more stressed than usual, not performing as well as you would like, or have experienced a case of the “yips” and want to return to peak performance, let’s talk.
![Photo of Naoji Andrew Watson, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd03f381-31a3-4608-983b-9b9a495ed4d1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Naoji Andrew Watson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22102
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about helping individuals and families. I have lived in many states and in Okinawa, Japan, and in Virginia most recently. My diverse military and family background led me to undergraduate studies at The Pennsylvania State University, and doctoral degree in Psychology at Argosy University where I developed a special interest in multicultural competency and mental health treatment. I have over 15 years of clinical experience and find collaborative work essential with other mental and health professionals in order to provide the highest level of care in treating the whole person.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about helping individuals and families. I have lived in many states and in Okinawa, Japan, and in Virginia most recently. My diverse military and family background led me to undergraduate studies at The Pennsylvania State University, and doctoral degree in Psychology at Argosy University where I developed a special interest in multicultural competency and mental health treatment. I have over 15 years of clinical experience and find collaborative work essential with other mental and health professionals in order to provide the highest level of care in treating the whole person.
![Photo of Elizabeth D. Milone, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3baf269b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Entering into therapy can be a difficult and intimidating process. It involves being honest with yourself and it takes courage and strength to open up to another person. As a psychologist who has worked with many individuals and couples, I am committed to creating a safe and non-judgemental environment. I enjoy helping people successfully deal with issues of depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship problems. I work in a warm and collaborative manner to identify treatment goals, instill a sense of hope, and learn effective coping skills that can lead to a better quality of life overall.
Entering into therapy can be a difficult and intimidating process. It involves being honest with yourself and it takes courage and strength to open up to another person. As a psychologist who has worked with many individuals and couples, I am committed to creating a safe and non-judgemental environment. I enjoy helping people successfully deal with issues of depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship problems. I work in a warm and collaborative manner to identify treatment goals, instill a sense of hope, and learn effective coping skills that can lead to a better quality of life overall.
![Photo of Melisa Atkeson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb66cba4-4f4b-4fd8-9b23-89af7559dc92/1/320x400.png)
Melisa Atkeson, LCSW is the founder of Wise Mind Psychotherapy, PLLC, a private practice in McLean, VA, providing treatment to adolescents, children, adults and families. Melisa has a particular interest in people who experience their emotions intensely and have difficulty managing them in healthy ways. She and the team at Wise Mind offer a comfortable and friendly environment for clients to improve their ability to understand and cope with their feelings. She knows how important the relationship between therapist and client is and spends time up front making excellent connections.
Melisa Atkeson, LCSW is the founder of Wise Mind Psychotherapy, PLLC, a private practice in McLean, VA, providing treatment to adolescents, children, adults and families. Melisa has a particular interest in people who experience their emotions intensely and have difficulty managing them in healthy ways. She and the team at Wise Mind offer a comfortable and friendly environment for clients to improve their ability to understand and cope with their feelings. She knows how important the relationship between therapist and client is and spends time up front making excellent connections.
![Photo of Barbara Lavine, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/452e91e6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you have concerns about your child or have work/personal issues? Barbara specializes in working with school-age children, age four through preteens, their families, and adults who are dealing with anxiety, grief, ADHD, school challenges, adjustment, family, friendship, work place issues. She strongly believes that through counseling one can make life changes and develop the life and social skills needed to overcome obstacles and live more satisfying and successful lives. She uses a variety of approaches: solution-focused, client-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), relaxation and mindfulness, play, art therapy, and role play with children.
Do you have concerns about your child or have work/personal issues? Barbara specializes in working with school-age children, age four through preteens, their families, and adults who are dealing with anxiety, grief, ADHD, school challenges, adjustment, family, friendship, work place issues. She strongly believes that through counseling one can make life changes and develop the life and social skills needed to overcome obstacles and live more satisfying and successful lives. She uses a variety of approaches: solution-focused, client-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), relaxation and mindfulness, play, art therapy, and role play with children.
![Photo of Patrick D Ryan, MA, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4524b488-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) that specializes in helping patients overcome issues related to anxiety, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), substance use disorders, family conflict and grief. I also have a special interest and experience helping adults, young adults, and high school students struggling with life transitions (college, adulthood etc.), performance and relationships. Whether working with adolescents, school-age children, or adults, I look forward to working with you and helping you and/or a loved one emerge from any life obstacles or issues.
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) that specializes in helping patients overcome issues related to anxiety, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), substance use disorders, family conflict and grief. I also have a special interest and experience helping adults, young adults, and high school students struggling with life transitions (college, adulthood etc.), performance and relationships. Whether working with adolescents, school-age children, or adults, I look forward to working with you and helping you and/or a loved one emerge from any life obstacles or issues.
![Photo of Kamillah Gray, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37e4d004-f924-4d26-a281-cd7702f84023/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kamillah Gray is a Resident in Counseling (RIC) in the state of Virginia who has more than 2 years of experience working with adolescents and young adults who are seeking help in coping with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and LGBTQIA+ issues. She completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Christopher Newport University and received her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs.
Kamillah Gray is a Resident in Counseling (RIC) in the state of Virginia who has more than 2 years of experience working with adolescents and young adults who are seeking help in coping with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and LGBTQIA+ issues. She completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Christopher Newport University and received her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs.
15 Second Videos
Anne Speckhard
David L Trautmann
Rob Wakeley LPC
Brittany Belscher
Madeline Grove
Jennifer Lager
Rafee Al-Mansur
Shally Vaid
Carly Pollack
Jill Weber
MindBalanceSPORT
Avesta Ketamine & Wellness
The Online Insomnia Center with Dr. Rosenblum
Lauren K. Nickum
George Young
David L Kupfer
ModernPsycholgicalServices
Jessica Branch
Andrea Shipley
Adam J. Maddeny
Sonnee D Stanley
Christine Gauthier
Sarah Ince
Northern Virginia Couples Counseling, LLC
Jacob Ross
Nausheen Yunas
Kristen Amanda Morris
Diane Bonilla
Maria Allen-Jenkins
BraveWithin Counseling EMDR Certified Therapist VA
Aimee Stailey
Erin Metheny
XY Grow&Heal Center
Kevin J. Roche
Megan A Connell
Divergent Path Wellness
Chereen Gamal
Higher Life Pathways Counseling Services
Holly Farris
Christa A Benton
Daniel Menely
Maia Noeder
Heather Hammock
Kara Weiland
Hannah Shahabi
Megan Massett
Matthew Barefoot
Body and Mindfully Healthy
Cj Seitz-Brown
Dyanna Citizen
![Photo of Matthew Ryan, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9aa205a6-0b87-4bfa-a8a4-979678d86ea1/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been in the psychology/counseling field since 2002. I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Commonwealth of Virginia, National Certified Counselor (NCC). As a former NCAA D1 athlete, I feel strongly that exercise is an important component to a healthy mind, body, and soul. I have a sharp interest incorporating this philosophy in my workings as a licensed mental health therapist. I currently am a therapist in McLean, Va working for Ryan Counseling, PLLC. I was nominated and featured in 2012, 2014, 2017, 2022 Northern Virginia Magazine "Top Doctors."
I have been in the psychology/counseling field since 2002. I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Commonwealth of Virginia, National Certified Counselor (NCC). As a former NCAA D1 athlete, I feel strongly that exercise is an important component to a healthy mind, body, and soul. I have a sharp interest incorporating this philosophy in my workings as a licensed mental health therapist. I currently am a therapist in McLean, Va working for Ryan Counseling, PLLC. I was nominated and featured in 2012, 2014, 2017, 2022 Northern Virginia Magazine "Top Doctors."
![Photo of Maria Martinez - McLean Psychology, LLC, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad7daa69-9aab-45b1-b5cb-89bad0a2192f/1/320x400.png)
If you or a loved one are going through a challenging time or seek support to bring about personal growth and achievement, contact us. Specialized in psychological assessment, individual therapy, family therapy, and parenting support. We foster growth by building upon current strengths and motivators to collaboratively develop practical interventions in a safe, welcoming environment. We stand apart due to quality services grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy (and other evidence-informed interventions) tailored for your needs. We have expertise with diverse abilities as well as bilingual skills, call for more information.
If you or a loved one are going through a challenging time or seek support to bring about personal growth and achievement, contact us. Specialized in psychological assessment, individual therapy, family therapy, and parenting support. We foster growth by building upon current strengths and motivators to collaboratively develop practical interventions in a safe, welcoming environment. We stand apart due to quality services grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy (and other evidence-informed interventions) tailored for your needs. We have expertise with diverse abilities as well as bilingual skills, call for more information.
![Photo of Jason N Steele, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/422c0fe7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jason N Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
Is the trauma in your past making your present difficult? Are you having trouble connecting with your child? Have you adopted a child and find that simply providing a loving home does not seem to be enough? Call so that we can talk about your struggles with anxiety, depression, family relationships or history of being abused. I want to work with you to find hope and healing.
Is the trauma in your past making your present difficult? Are you having trouble connecting with your child? Have you adopted a child and find that simply providing a loving home does not seem to be enough? Call so that we can talk about your struggles with anxiety, depression, family relationships or history of being abused. I want to work with you to find hope and healing.
![Photo of Arianne Waschler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f67cf04-ab7f-4a7c-ac7b-5082eb70b668/1/320x400.jpeg)
Arianne Waschler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22102 (Online Only)
I’m glad that we’ve found each other. My name is Arianne and I've been partnering with individuals for 12 years, navigating the challenges, celebrating the victories, and working towards the life each person hopes for themselves. When life becomes too much to handle, you might know what you need to do logically to make things better, but actually starting can feel scary. When you're stuck in a loop of negative thoughts and bad habits, it's hard to shake off the guilt and move forward. You understand your struggles and story better than anyone else and I'm here to work alongside you to restore your calm.
I’m glad that we’ve found each other. My name is Arianne and I've been partnering with individuals for 12 years, navigating the challenges, celebrating the victories, and working towards the life each person hopes for themselves. When life becomes too much to handle, you might know what you need to do logically to make things better, but actually starting can feel scary. When you're stuck in a loop of negative thoughts and bad habits, it's hard to shake off the guilt and move forward. You understand your struggles and story better than anyone else and I'm here to work alongside you to restore your calm.
![Photo of Jenifer R Elkus, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cef6e12-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
The decision to begin/return to therapy can be complicated. Some believe they should be able to "fix" problems independently, and place undue blame on themselves for being stuck in cycles of depression/anxiety, disordered eating, malfunctioning relationships, self-harm, etc. Through my work as a Clinical Psychologist, I've come to believe that it takes courage to recognize that aspects of one's life aren't working, and to seek support in making positive changes. During therapy, I work with clients to identify areas of life they'd like to change, and together, we explore past experiences that may have contributed to current struggles.
The decision to begin/return to therapy can be complicated. Some believe they should be able to "fix" problems independently, and place undue blame on themselves for being stuck in cycles of depression/anxiety, disordered eating, malfunctioning relationships, self-harm, etc. Through my work as a Clinical Psychologist, I've come to believe that it takes courage to recognize that aspects of one's life aren't working, and to seek support in making positive changes. During therapy, I work with clients to identify areas of life they'd like to change, and together, we explore past experiences that may have contributed to current struggles.
![Photo of Rebekah Stone, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/734d165f-0816-4124-a754-f57375d0353a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebekah Stone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22102
I have over 14 years of experience. I am passionate and Solution-Focused, about helping others, whether it is a struggle with daily life tasks, general life transitions, or in cases of distress or crisis. My goal is to help you feel more empowered to reach your personal goals and experience a healthier and happier life. We can work together on healing whether you are experiencing issues in managing emotions, relationship boundaries, self-esteem, mood instability, or other symptoms directly related to OCD, bi-polar disorder, trauma, depression, and anxiety. I consider myself to be an “eclectic” therapist.
I have over 14 years of experience. I am passionate and Solution-Focused, about helping others, whether it is a struggle with daily life tasks, general life transitions, or in cases of distress or crisis. My goal is to help you feel more empowered to reach your personal goals and experience a healthier and happier life. We can work together on healing whether you are experiencing issues in managing emotions, relationship boundaries, self-esteem, mood instability, or other symptoms directly related to OCD, bi-polar disorder, trauma, depression, and anxiety. I consider myself to be an “eclectic” therapist.
![Photo of Dr. Judith Markey, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c07882ab-04e8-40f5-82af-0019154177a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults and adolescents in the treatment of depression and anxiety and other mood disorders, trauma and grief, LGBTQ issues, relationship issues and Asperger’s syndrome/high functioning autism. I provide psychological assessment for individuals seeking gender-affirming care, and presurgical psychological assessment for bariatric surgery. I hold a master’s degree and a doctorate in clinical psychology, and a master's degree in dance/movement therapy. I recently graduated from Harvard Medical School's post-doctoral certification program in Writing for Healthcare.
I work with adults and adolescents in the treatment of depression and anxiety and other mood disorders, trauma and grief, LGBTQ issues, relationship issues and Asperger’s syndrome/high functioning autism. I provide psychological assessment for individuals seeking gender-affirming care, and presurgical psychological assessment for bariatric surgery. I hold a master’s degree and a doctorate in clinical psychology, and a master's degree in dance/movement therapy. I recently graduated from Harvard Medical School's post-doctoral certification program in Writing for Healthcare.
![Photo of Lori Bristow, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4711a5b8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
As there are many therapists to choose from, your task in finding a therapist can be challenging for various reasons. I hope by reading more about me, you will have a better sense of how I may be able to help you. I believe that successful therapy depends upon your sense of comfort and emotional safety, as well as the connection we establish in the therapeutic relationship.
As there are many therapists to choose from, your task in finding a therapist can be challenging for various reasons. I hope by reading more about me, you will have a better sense of how I may be able to help you. I believe that successful therapy depends upon your sense of comfort and emotional safety, as well as the connection we establish in the therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Nicholas B Liappis, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc1fc7e6-62c8-4a8c-9eae-ef20915f7c53/5/320x400.jpeg)
Nicholas B Liappis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
To get to know me better than I could describe, read my 14 unsolicited 5-star REVIEWS on my Google listing. PC users, click the 'Website' button to left. Mobile users, scroll down and click on the 'My Website' link. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor native to McLean, VA. For 24 years I’ve had the opportunity to use my training, skills and experience to make a positive difference in the lives of many, from young children (5+ yo); to tweens and teens; and to adults. By meeting people where they are and not where they are expected to be, I empower my clients to lift themselves up to a place in life where they want to be.
To get to know me better than I could describe, read my 14 unsolicited 5-star REVIEWS on my Google listing. PC users, click the 'Website' button to left. Mobile users, scroll down and click on the 'My Website' link. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor native to McLean, VA. For 24 years I’ve had the opportunity to use my training, skills and experience to make a positive difference in the lives of many, from young children (5+ yo); to tweens and teens; and to adults. By meeting people where they are and not where they are expected to be, I empower my clients to lift themselves up to a place in life where they want to be.
See more therapy options for McLean
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in McLean, VA
500+
Average cost per session
$185
Therapists in McLean, VA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
80% | Relationship Issues |
74% | Self Esteem |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Coping Skills |
63% | Stress |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
72% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
57% | Anthem | Elevance |
51% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in McLean, VA see their clients
68% | In Person and Online | |
32% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in McLean?
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.