Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

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Photo of Center for Healing & Personal Growth in Los Angeles, CA
Center for Healing & Personal Growth
PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
We understand how frustrating it is to search for the right therapist who matches the criteria you’re looking for. We understand that you may have called and emailed so many therapists hoping to find one who accepts your insurance, is skilled and experienced, and has immediate openings. We are a team of humanistic, skilled psychologists, MFTs, social workers and hypnotherapy practitioners who are dedicated to help you connect with the right therapist. We accept most insurances, advocate for all our clients to get reimbursements from their insurance and offer sliding scale to make sure finances are not an obstacle for you to receive the help you need and deserve. Our mission is to provide genuine, authentic care to all our clients. We believe everyone has the capacity to heal from trauma and meet their potential in life. We value your commitment to show up in therapy and collaborate with you actively to get you one step closer to your goals and potential in life in every session. We are passionate about our work and don’t consider it a job or a career. For us, helping you to reach your goals and find the clarity, peace, or happiness you’re looking for is our mission and calling.
We understand how frustrating it is to search for the right therapist who matches the criteria you’re looking for. We understand that you may have called and emailed so many therapists hoping to find one who accepts your insurance, is skilled and experienced, and has immediate openings. We are a team of humanistic, skilled psychologists, MFTs, social workers and hypnotherapy practitioners who are dedicated to help you connect with the right therapist. We accept most insurances, advocate for all our clients to get reimbursements from their insurance and offer sliding scale to make sure finances are not an obstacle for you to receive the help you need and deserve. Our mission is to provide genuine, authentic care to all our clients. We believe everyone has the capacity to heal from trauma and meet their potential in life. We value your commitment to show up in therapy and collaborate with you actively to get you one step closer to your goals and potential in life in every session. We are passionate about our work and don’t consider it a job or a career. For us, helping you to reach your goals and find the clarity, peace, or happiness you’re looking for is our mission and calling.
(310) 971-9156 View (310) 971-9156
Photo of Nicole Shoumer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Nicole Shoumer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be your full authentic self? Nicole Shoumer offers a collaborative experience where she will aid in unlocking the barriers in your way to living your best life.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be your full authentic self? Nicole Shoumer offers a collaborative experience where she will aid in unlocking the barriers in your way to living your best life.
(424) 835-5512 View (424) 835-5512
Photo of Lance Waltman, LPC, Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Lance Waltman, LPC
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
I often work with clients who struggle with never feeling good enough. This would surprise people around you as there's a good chance you've found success in life. You excelled academically, have advanced your career, and appear confident to others, but internally you feel different. The drive to perform has been an attempt to finally feel like you are enough. I can help you begin to look at how these patterns were at one time protective, but may no longer fit in your life. We will work together to heal the underlying wounds these patterns are protecting.
I often work with clients who struggle with never feeling good enough. This would surprise people around you as there's a good chance you've found success in life. You excelled academically, have advanced your career, and appear confident to others, but internally you feel different. The drive to perform has been an attempt to finally feel like you are enough. I can help you begin to look at how these patterns were at one time protective, but may no longer fit in your life. We will work together to heal the underlying wounds these patterns are protecting.
(424) 866-8637 View (424) 866-8637
Photo of Dr. Cristen DeSantis, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Cristen DeSantis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Being a human is hard! Managing relationships (familial, romantic, platonic, professional) with all kinds of different personalities, feeling comfortable and confident in our careers, finding healthy and lasting love, and feeling good about ourselves through it all can feel like an impossible task. We were never given a manual on how to do this! And while, as humans, we are incredibly resilient and have somehow found a way to get this far, some of the coping mechanisms we have developed throughout our lives may not be serving us anymore. I help clients gain insight into their thoughts & behaviors to help improve their outcomes.
Being a human is hard! Managing relationships (familial, romantic, platonic, professional) with all kinds of different personalities, feeling comfortable and confident in our careers, finding healthy and lasting love, and feeling good about ourselves through it all can feel like an impossible task. We were never given a manual on how to do this! And while, as humans, we are incredibly resilient and have somehow found a way to get this far, some of the coping mechanisms we have developed throughout our lives may not be serving us anymore. I help clients gain insight into their thoughts & behaviors to help improve their outcomes.
(310) 943-0979 View (310) 943-0979
Photo of Tasleem Suttles, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Tasleem Suttles
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90045
“Imperfection is not our personal problem – it is a natural part of existing.” (Tara Brach). I understand that life can be challenging and has its “faults” but it's simply how we choose to manage it. We might often beat ourselves up for lack of follow-through, discipline, or motivation. As Tara Brach stated, we are humans, and being imperfect is a natural part of life. We might fail to realize that being human means making mistakes. While working closely together, I intend to create a space where you can be unapologetically yourself, and not worry about the “shoulds” in life.
“Imperfection is not our personal problem – it is a natural part of existing.” (Tara Brach). I understand that life can be challenging and has its “faults” but it's simply how we choose to manage it. We might often beat ourselves up for lack of follow-through, discipline, or motivation. As Tara Brach stated, we are humans, and being imperfect is a natural part of life. We might fail to realize that being human means making mistakes. While working closely together, I intend to create a space where you can be unapologetically yourself, and not worry about the “shoulds” in life.
(424) 379-5640 View (424) 379-5640
Photo of Mitchell Hale, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, CA
Mitchell Hale
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am a Los Angeles-based psychotherapist dedicated to helping my clients live happier lives through reducing internal shame, cultivating self-compassion and rewriting limiting personal narratives. I primarily works with adolescents and adult clients (ages 13 – 45) and is experienced in trauma work and LGBTQIA+ issues.
I am a Los Angeles-based psychotherapist dedicated to helping my clients live happier lives through reducing internal shame, cultivating self-compassion and rewriting limiting personal narratives. I primarily works with adolescents and adult clients (ages 13 – 45) and is experienced in trauma work and LGBTQIA+ issues.
(310) 340-2172 View (310) 340-2172
Photo of Keren Garcia-Arteaga, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Keren Garcia-Arteaga
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MSMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041
I believe that relationships are not just a source of our deepest pain, but also the catalyst for transformation and healing. Using cultural humility and compassionate attunement, I foster a nurturing space where you can explore your inner struggles, share your story, and discover your authentic self. As a companion on your journey towards healing, I will use a therapeutic approach that honors the intersecting parts of your being by bringing awareness to mind, body, spirit, and cultural identity.
I believe that relationships are not just a source of our deepest pain, but also the catalyst for transformation and healing. Using cultural humility and compassionate attunement, I foster a nurturing space where you can explore your inner struggles, share your story, and discover your authentic self. As a companion on your journey towards healing, I will use a therapeutic approach that honors the intersecting parts of your being by bringing awareness to mind, body, spirit, and cultural identity.
(213) 682-2713 View (213) 682-2713
Photo of Jessica Improta, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jessica Improta, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You're a smart, motivated professional. You've managed to piece together a life and career that in many ways you're proud of and looks good. But you often find yourself repeating patterns in relationships or with yourself that you'd like to start to break. You may feel anxious and isolated, despite having people around you. Or perhaps it's hard to settle into relationships when you're constantly fighting off reminders of prior traumas in which people let you down, whether from an abusive or neglectful childhood or something more recent. You may need support to be seen and heard, and to start to make sense of things.
You're a smart, motivated professional. You've managed to piece together a life and career that in many ways you're proud of and looks good. But you often find yourself repeating patterns in relationships or with yourself that you'd like to start to break. You may feel anxious and isolated, despite having people around you. Or perhaps it's hard to settle into relationships when you're constantly fighting off reminders of prior traumas in which people let you down, whether from an abusive or neglectful childhood or something more recent. You may need support to be seen and heard, and to start to make sense of things.
(310) 594-8861 View (310) 594-8861
Photo of Silvia Escobar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Silvia Escobar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
My name is Silvia Escobar and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. I work with adolescents and adults specializing in depression, anxiety, life transitions, and stress using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I decided to become a therapist because I have always wanted to help others feel better about themselves and their circumstances. Throughout my career, individuals have naturally been drawn to share their struggles and difficult life situations with me.
My name is Silvia Escobar and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. I work with adolescents and adults specializing in depression, anxiety, life transitions, and stress using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I decided to become a therapist because I have always wanted to help others feel better about themselves and their circumstances. Throughout my career, individuals have naturally been drawn to share their struggles and difficult life situations with me.
(562) 561-1684 View (562) 561-1684
Photo of Lisa Gallegos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Lisa Gallegos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90041  (Online Only)
If difficult life experiences have left you feeling stuck, worried, hopeless, angry or overwhelmed, we can work together to bring change to your life. My first priority is building a trusting, safe relationship with you. I will utilize my expertise in interpersonal neurobiology, attachment theory, mindfulness, and trauma-informed care to create a safe, non-judgmental environment, informed by a framework founded on the connections between mind, body, and emotion. I will use cutting edge science about the brain that empowers you with information to understand your relationship patterns and why you think, feel, and behave the way you do.
If difficult life experiences have left you feeling stuck, worried, hopeless, angry or overwhelmed, we can work together to bring change to your life. My first priority is building a trusting, safe relationship with you. I will utilize my expertise in interpersonal neurobiology, attachment theory, mindfulness, and trauma-informed care to create a safe, non-judgmental environment, informed by a framework founded on the connections between mind, body, and emotion. I will use cutting edge science about the brain that empowers you with information to understand your relationship patterns and why you think, feel, and behave the way you do.
(213) 810-5534 View (213) 810-5534
Photo of Kathy Lander, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kathy Lander
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019  (Online Only)
Are you wondering if things can change? Are you looking for empowerment and personal growth? I specialize in relationships, coping skills, self esteem, stress reduction, anxiety, depression and trauma. I am EMDR certified for 20+ years. I come from a solution oriented and collaborative perspective. Whether it be transitions, relationships, personal growth or even political and social stress, my goal is to help empower you to navigate through life's challenges by providing support to meet your desired potential. I am here to collaborate with you and be part of the solution on a creative, practical and emotional level.
Are you wondering if things can change? Are you looking for empowerment and personal growth? I specialize in relationships, coping skills, self esteem, stress reduction, anxiety, depression and trauma. I am EMDR certified for 20+ years. I come from a solution oriented and collaborative perspective. Whether it be transitions, relationships, personal growth or even political and social stress, my goal is to help empower you to navigate through life's challenges by providing support to meet your desired potential. I am here to collaborate with you and be part of the solution on a creative, practical and emotional level.
(323) 796-2440 View (323) 796-2440
Photo of Kristen Tritt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kristen Tritt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90014
I am a Senior Associate Therapist at Dr. McCurdy-McKinnon & Associates: Eating Disorders Clinic (licensed in CA and FL). I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders from a person-first, strengths-based perspective. With >10 years in social services, I have a wealth of experiences that contribute to my work as a clinician. I have specialize in eating disorders and have worked at some of the most prominent clinics in the Los Angeles area. I take a values-based approach to help clients guide themselves towards a life that is free from cognitive dissonance and true to one's authentic self.
I am a Senior Associate Therapist at Dr. McCurdy-McKinnon & Associates: Eating Disorders Clinic (licensed in CA and FL). I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders from a person-first, strengths-based perspective. With >10 years in social services, I have a wealth of experiences that contribute to my work as a clinician. I have specialize in eating disorders and have worked at some of the most prominent clinics in the Los Angeles area. I take a values-based approach to help clients guide themselves towards a life that is free from cognitive dissonance and true to one's authentic self.
(213) 306-3142 View (213) 306-3142
Photo of Miwa Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Miwa Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027  (Online Only)
Sometimes we need help managing anxiety, depression, stressors of life, relationship struggles, self-esteem, trauma, loss, or alcohol use. It's more than okay to ask for help. Are you hoping to learn how to manage your anxiety or depression? Do you need help navigating relationships? Are you hard on yourself and struggling with self-love? Do you ever wonder how past hurts are affecting your current life? Do you need a safe space to process your life apart from friends and family? As a therapist, I enjoy helping people find the tools to improve their mental health and help them find happiness in their day-to-day lives.
Sometimes we need help managing anxiety, depression, stressors of life, relationship struggles, self-esteem, trauma, loss, or alcohol use. It's more than okay to ask for help. Are you hoping to learn how to manage your anxiety or depression? Do you need help navigating relationships? Are you hard on yourself and struggling with self-love? Do you ever wonder how past hurts are affecting your current life? Do you need a safe space to process your life apart from friends and family? As a therapist, I enjoy helping people find the tools to improve their mental health and help them find happiness in their day-to-day lives.
(213) 376-5409 View (213) 376-5409
Photo of Todd Adamson, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Todd Adamson, PsyD, ABPP
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Choosing the right therapist is an important process and can impact your therapy experience immensely. I aim to be straightforward and practical, while providing a relaxed and natural flow. My approach is collaborative and integrates Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness to provide relief from anxiety, depression, and trauma. I help people with life transitions, relationships, work stressors and family life. I am also a sport and performance psychologist and mental performance coach. I have worked with individuals and teams for over 15 years to fine-tune their ability to thrive and succeed at the highest level.
Choosing the right therapist is an important process and can impact your therapy experience immensely. I aim to be straightforward and practical, while providing a relaxed and natural flow. My approach is collaborative and integrates Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness to provide relief from anxiety, depression, and trauma. I help people with life transitions, relationships, work stressors and family life. I am also a sport and performance psychologist and mental performance coach. I have worked with individuals and teams for over 15 years to fine-tune their ability to thrive and succeed at the highest level.
(323) 476-1930 View (323) 476-1930
Photo of Bonnie Greenberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Bonnie Greenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049
Using customized eclectic approaches; mindfulness, music, solution focused, neuroscience, trauma-informed care, EMDR and group therapy, I help clients discover their innate, creative potential resulting in a more satisfied, productive and meaningful life. I encourage self-expression, communication, and problem solving. With young children, I utilize play and art therapy to help them express and understand their feelings thus reducing their internal/external conflicts. With teenagers I often teach mindfulness and coping skills. I'm dedicated to helping each client fulfill their potential and achieve peace, well being and happiness.
Using customized eclectic approaches; mindfulness, music, solution focused, neuroscience, trauma-informed care, EMDR and group therapy, I help clients discover their innate, creative potential resulting in a more satisfied, productive and meaningful life. I encourage self-expression, communication, and problem solving. With young children, I utilize play and art therapy to help them express and understand their feelings thus reducing their internal/external conflicts. With teenagers I often teach mindfulness and coping skills. I'm dedicated to helping each client fulfill their potential and achieve peace, well being and happiness.
(310) 706-2372 View (310) 706-2372
Photo of Kristen Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kristen Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I provide therapy for adolescents and adults seeking help with issues including parenting, divorce, stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, communication, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, grief, life-changing events, and others. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can identify and explore the underlying beliefs driving your behaviors, shaping your habits, and impacting your relationships. Working together using therapeutic approaches such as mindfulness, CBT, narrative therapy, DBT, etc., you will learn to better manage emotions and behaviors, allowing you to meet your own personal goals.
I provide therapy for adolescents and adults seeking help with issues including parenting, divorce, stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, communication, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, grief, life-changing events, and others. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can identify and explore the underlying beliefs driving your behaviors, shaping your habits, and impacting your relationships. Working together using therapeutic approaches such as mindfulness, CBT, narrative therapy, DBT, etc., you will learn to better manage emotions and behaviors, allowing you to meet your own personal goals.
(747) 236-6609 View (747) 236-6609
Photo of Sarah Farnsworth, Pre-Licensed Professional in Los Angeles, CA
Sarah Farnsworth
Pre-Licensed Professional, RP Cand, MFA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90014
The Psychoanalytic session is a space held between the patient and the analyst, where the capacity to be curious about one's internal world is created and nurtured in a collaborative way. This is a journey into the depths of one's being, which is no easy task. To quote Neville Symington, "Psychoanalysis is not for the person who has had a breakdown and just wants to start functioning again, because as the analysis proceeds he may have to revise his whole life and alter it radically. I think that psychoanalysis is for those who have a curiosity about life, but also wish to live it inwardly." (from The Psychoanalytic Experience)
The Psychoanalytic session is a space held between the patient and the analyst, where the capacity to be curious about one's internal world is created and nurtured in a collaborative way. This is a journey into the depths of one's being, which is no easy task. To quote Neville Symington, "Psychoanalysis is not for the person who has had a breakdown and just wants to start functioning again, because as the analysis proceeds he may have to revise his whole life and alter it radically. I think that psychoanalysis is for those who have a curiosity about life, but also wish to live it inwardly." (from The Psychoanalytic Experience)
(818) 741-3026 View (818) 741-3026
Photo of Chauney Peck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Chauney Peck
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90039
Are you creative, a perfectionist, or do you work in a high-stress position? On paper, things look good.  But on the inside, it’s a different story. Many high-achievers and creatives can get lost in survival mode, straying far from our basic requirements and deep desires.  This can be caused by many things including unconscious unmet needs, cultural norms, or old wounds.  Fortunately, there is a safe and gentle way out.  I help people reconnect their minds, bodies, and emotions. Over time, my clients become skilled at trusting others, being proactive, and aligning with an authentic version of themselves.
Are you creative, a perfectionist, or do you work in a high-stress position? On paper, things look good.  But on the inside, it’s a different story. Many high-achievers and creatives can get lost in survival mode, straying far from our basic requirements and deep desires.  This can be caused by many things including unconscious unmet needs, cultural norms, or old wounds.  Fortunately, there is a safe and gentle way out.  I help people reconnect their minds, bodies, and emotions. Over time, my clients become skilled at trusting others, being proactive, and aligning with an authentic version of themselves.
(323) 433-5899 View (323) 433-5899
Photo of Lynn Valverde Marriage & Family Therapy Prof Corp, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Lynn Valverde Marriage & Family Therapy Prof Corp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90049
The truth is life can be difficult! We all experience loss, disappointment, anxiety, and self-doubt. Peace, clarity, and wellbeing are your natural state. Depression, anxiety and relationship problems cause anguish and pain - getting by day to day can be challenging. We often struggle alone hoping things will get better. I care and I am here to support you in connecting with your innate wisdom allowing you to find solutions and make the changes that are most meaningful to you. Be more productive, have higher quality connections, and success. Experience more joy, love, laughter, and self-confidence. I'd love to hear from you!
The truth is life can be difficult! We all experience loss, disappointment, anxiety, and self-doubt. Peace, clarity, and wellbeing are your natural state. Depression, anxiety and relationship problems cause anguish and pain - getting by day to day can be challenging. We often struggle alone hoping things will get better. I care and I am here to support you in connecting with your innate wisdom allowing you to find solutions and make the changes that are most meaningful to you. Be more productive, have higher quality connections, and success. Experience more joy, love, laughter, and self-confidence. I'd love to hear from you!
(424) 653-6737 View (424) 653-6737
Photo of Blanca Janet Monzon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Blanca Janet Monzon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90057  (Online Only)
Hola, I am Blanca "Janet" Monzon. I’m a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience working in communities of color, in the fields of education, mental health, and community organizing. I’m also a POC, an intersectional feminist, with progressive radical views. Transparency is important to me because I believe that my identities and perspectives inform the way I approach working in mental health. I have experience working with undocumented folks, first gen, and young adults. Hablo Español, English, and Spanglish!
Hola, I am Blanca "Janet" Monzon. I’m a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience working in communities of color, in the fields of education, mental health, and community organizing. I’m also a POC, an intersectional feminist, with progressive radical views. Transparency is important to me because I believe that my identities and perspectives inform the way I approach working in mental health. I have experience working with undocumented folks, first gen, and young adults. Hablo Español, English, and Spanglish!
(424) 349-4236 View (424) 349-4236

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

3,000+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Los Angeles, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
74% Self Esteem
72% Relationship Issues
67% Trauma and PTSD
65% Coping Skills
63% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% Aetna
69% Cigna and Evernorth
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Los Angeles, CA see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Los Angeles?

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

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.

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.

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.