Therapists in San Diego County, CA
![Photo of Kelsey Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/5b0be784-aa73-43a1-81da-44c6415072d2/2/320x400.png)
Kelsey Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075 (Online Only)
I'm so happy you're here! I'm Kelsey (she/her), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. My clients struggle with anxiety, depression, perfectionism, disordered eating, life transitions, PTSD, or maladaptive emotional overcontrol, and are seeking healing, balance, self-compassion, freedom, and a fulfilling relationship with self and others. I use a lot of warmth and humor in my therapeutic work, and can also intentionally hold validating space for difficult topics and emotions. I'm committed to creating a comfortable environment where we can build a trusting relationship to support vulnerability and healing.
I'm so happy you're here! I'm Kelsey (she/her), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. My clients struggle with anxiety, depression, perfectionism, disordered eating, life transitions, PTSD, or maladaptive emotional overcontrol, and are seeking healing, balance, self-compassion, freedom, and a fulfilling relationship with self and others. I use a lot of warmth and humor in my therapeutic work, and can also intentionally hold validating space for difficult topics and emotions. I'm committed to creating a comfortable environment where we can build a trusting relationship to support vulnerability and healing.
![Photo of Heather Foster, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3cccd226-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
RECONNECT with YOUR LOVER!!! You love your significant other, but lately you can't seem to get along. Are you missing the way your relationship was when you first fell in love, but you are just not sure how to get it back? Everyone goes through tough times connecting with their significant other. Regardless of how long you've been together there are ups and downs. It is not uncommon for couples to hit a rough patch in their relationship and counseling can help get your relationship back on track.
RECONNECT with YOUR LOVER!!! You love your significant other, but lately you can't seem to get along. Are you missing the way your relationship was when you first fell in love, but you are just not sure how to get it back? Everyone goes through tough times connecting with their significant other. Regardless of how long you've been together there are ups and downs. It is not uncommon for couples to hit a rough patch in their relationship and counseling can help get your relationship back on track.
![Photo of Raissa Kennedy, ASW](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/a6b00260-5738-4d98-8ecc-a9853caa7b67/2/320x400.jpeg)
Raissa Kennedy, ASW is a registered Associate Clinical Social Worker (ASW) practicing under the supervision of Sandra Vought, LCSW. Graduating with a Master of Social Work from Fordham University in 2021, Raissa brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her clinical practice. Her expertise spans working with anxiety and depression, substance abuse and co-occurring disorders, as well as serving the LGBTQ+ community. Raissa specializes in working with children, teens, and adults, offering individual, couples, and family therapy sessions.
Raissa Kennedy, ASW is a registered Associate Clinical Social Worker (ASW) practicing under the supervision of Sandra Vought, LCSW. Graduating with a Master of Social Work from Fordham University in 2021, Raissa brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her clinical practice. Her expertise spans working with anxiety and depression, substance abuse and co-occurring disorders, as well as serving the LGBTQ+ community. Raissa specializes in working with children, teens, and adults, offering individual, couples, and family therapy sessions.
![Photo of Chrissy Powers, BA, MA, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/823d079f-144c-47ae-8c5d-73e1af48f068/2/320x400.jpeg)
I love working with folks who are seeking to overcome challenges related to spiritual or religious trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, disembodiment, stress and personal growth. I specialize in supporting people through life transitions, helping them navigate their emotions, rediscover their identities, and finding balance in their lives. My trauma-informed holistic approach emphasizes empathy, compassion, embodiment, inner child healing, and attachment theory. I am passionate about creating a safe space for clients to explore their feelings and experiences.
I love working with folks who are seeking to overcome challenges related to spiritual or religious trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, disembodiment, stress and personal growth. I specialize in supporting people through life transitions, helping them navigate their emotions, rediscover their identities, and finding balance in their lives. My trauma-informed holistic approach emphasizes empathy, compassion, embodiment, inner child healing, and attachment theory. I am passionate about creating a safe space for clients to explore their feelings and experiences.
![Photo of Anne Glenn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/17b1be1c-0aa6-41af-9550-daeb939ad1e9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Anne! Anne Glenn, LCSW. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to treatment is to work hand in hand with my clients. Helping them find answers, healing, and growth they may be looking for. I do not work with high-risk clients. I specialize in working with kids and families who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors and changes in family environment due to abuse and divorce.
Hi, I'm Anne! Anne Glenn, LCSW. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to treatment is to work hand in hand with my clients. Helping them find answers, healing, and growth they may be looking for. I do not work with high-risk clients. I specialize in working with kids and families who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors and changes in family environment due to abuse and divorce.
![Photo of Elizabeth Collentine-Cole, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/6732a0b2-62c0-4e2d-b2d3-175ae660c388/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Collentine-Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
My goal is to cultivate a warm, non-judgmental, inclusive space for my clients to embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. Every client brings unique strengths, identities, histories, and relationships to our work. In our initial sessions, I focus on a client’s specific therapeutic objectives to help chart a path of growth and healing for our therapeutic work together. I have extensive experience in supporting clients who have suffered acute and chronic health challenges as well as in supporting clients who are coping with significant life transitions (relationship changes, birth, loss, career transitions, etc).
My goal is to cultivate a warm, non-judgmental, inclusive space for my clients to embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. Every client brings unique strengths, identities, histories, and relationships to our work. In our initial sessions, I focus on a client’s specific therapeutic objectives to help chart a path of growth and healing for our therapeutic work together. I have extensive experience in supporting clients who have suffered acute and chronic health challenges as well as in supporting clients who are coping with significant life transitions (relationship changes, birth, loss, career transitions, etc).
![Photo of Carter Campbell Gardner, PhD, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/49e08e95-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I use a client centered approach which focuses on the clients goals. Many persons seek help for anxiety, depression, dealing with the effects of trauma, and dealing with difficult life problems like relationship problems, health problems of themselves or others, and addiction. I often teach clients relaxations methods to improve their wellbeing while dealing with difficult problems. I have worked with many persons who have experienced extreme trauma. I also specialize in treating gambling addiction. I specialize in dealing with seniors who have mental and physical health challenges.
I use a client centered approach which focuses on the clients goals. Many persons seek help for anxiety, depression, dealing with the effects of trauma, and dealing with difficult life problems like relationship problems, health problems of themselves or others, and addiction. I often teach clients relaxations methods to improve their wellbeing while dealing with difficult problems. I have worked with many persons who have experienced extreme trauma. I also specialize in treating gambling addiction. I specialize in dealing with seniors who have mental and physical health challenges.
![Photo of Diego Flores, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/4d94ed3d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Diego Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92105
Hello and thank you for the opportunity to offer my counseling services to you. My therapeutic style is collaborative and I invite those who are motivated to seek change including those from the LGBTQIA community, youth in transition (ages 16-24), and families in transition due to divorce, death, and re-marriage to come and speak with me. My specialty is couples counseling. Whether you are a monogamous couple or you are in a non-monogamous/polyamorous relationship, I provide space for couples who want to define who they are and what their relationship means to them now and moving forward. I believe each relationship is unique and th
Hello and thank you for the opportunity to offer my counseling services to you. My therapeutic style is collaborative and I invite those who are motivated to seek change including those from the LGBTQIA community, youth in transition (ages 16-24), and families in transition due to divorce, death, and re-marriage to come and speak with me. My specialty is couples counseling. Whether you are a monogamous couple or you are in a non-monogamous/polyamorous relationship, I provide space for couples who want to define who they are and what their relationship means to them now and moving forward. I believe each relationship is unique and th
![Photo of Myles Childs, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/cea8dec0-cc6b-4847-a2ed-215696bb7c31/3/320x400.jpeg)
Myles Childs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
Waitlist for new clients
Reaching out for help? In a time of need, it can be overwhelming. I want to commend you for acknowledging that you would like some support. Through individual, couple, family, group, and other relational therapy, I provide emotional and mental support to help my clients gain, regain, and maintain a healthy life. As a therapist of color, I'm intentional about creating a safe space where diversity and cultural differences are respected and valued. I'm passionate about my clients’ wellness and aim to provide clients with space and time to be their most authentic and unapologetic selves without fear of judgment.
Reaching out for help? In a time of need, it can be overwhelming. I want to commend you for acknowledging that you would like some support. Through individual, couple, family, group, and other relational therapy, I provide emotional and mental support to help my clients gain, regain, and maintain a healthy life. As a therapist of color, I'm intentional about creating a safe space where diversity and cultural differences are respected and valued. I'm passionate about my clients’ wellness and aim to provide clients with space and time to be their most authentic and unapologetic selves without fear of judgment.
![Photo of Craig Steckowski, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/89aa844b-8e9a-49cc-bcaf-7a602cd1cd3e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Craig Steckowski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Craig. I'm going to go out on a limb and guess "something" isn't OK. That "something" may be new or it may have been around for quite some time. You might be able to describe that "something" perfectly or maybe you don't know what that "something" is, but you know you are just feeling "off".
Hi, my name is Craig. I'm going to go out on a limb and guess "something" isn't OK. That "something" may be new or it may have been around for quite some time. You might be able to describe that "something" perfectly or maybe you don't know what that "something" is, but you know you are just feeling "off".
![Photo of Miranda Rose Millican - Miranda Millican, Couples Therapist , MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/f13e7161-4466-4eb9-b351-87db9d0b1d1b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Miranda Millican, Couples Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92102
Welcome! I work with communication issues, trust issues, infidelity, intimacy issues, LGBTQIA+ couples and couples practicing ENM/polyamory. I also work with couples practicing kink/BDSM. I am a queer and neurodivergent therapist, and I have specialized experience working with ADHD and autism in the context of relationships and mixed-neurotype couples. I love to see my couples walking out of my office holding hands, looking at each other with more gratitude, with a new hope for the future. I have a trauma informed approach that helps my couples understand the origins of their thoughts and behavior within the relationship.
Welcome! I work with communication issues, trust issues, infidelity, intimacy issues, LGBTQIA+ couples and couples practicing ENM/polyamory. I also work with couples practicing kink/BDSM. I am a queer and neurodivergent therapist, and I have specialized experience working with ADHD and autism in the context of relationships and mixed-neurotype couples. I love to see my couples walking out of my office holding hands, looking at each other with more gratitude, with a new hope for the future. I have a trauma informed approach that helps my couples understand the origins of their thoughts and behavior within the relationship.
15 Second Videos
Chrissy Powers
Carter Campbell Gardner
Leslie Pritchett
Sarah Ebert
Christy A. George
Heather Fuller- Emdr And Brainspotting Therapist
Tina Thuy Do
Kellie Delli Colli
Colette Lord
Julie Datnow
Jessica Furland
Kari Katzenmeier
Heidi McGann Intuitive Healing Services
Kim Foskett Counseling
Sarah Schumacher
Sean Stiller
Teal Berkowitz
Aliza Ostrosky
Will Kelly Counseling for Men
Lydia Lombardi Good
Aly Allen
Krystal Johnson
Scott D Altamirano
Stacey Sciacchitano
Walter Patrick Martin
Rob Martin
Ida Greene
Lauren Perez
Ji Eun Ko
Jennifer Kuebler
Melissa McCormick
Esmeralda S Christensen
Somatic Science Nervous System Regulation
Julia Malone
Vanessa Norman
Stacy Bonds
Charles Yin
Jamila Mahfudh
Auti Scolman
Laura J Guyn
Tahney Johnston
Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network
Leanne Anaya Reece
Jay Wick
Child Psych San Diego: Dr. Diana Robbins
Richard George Kastanias
Sue Shrinkle-Emmons
Elisabeth Caetano
Shannon Jones - Holistic Therapy + Art Therapy
Laura Wilhoit
![Photo of Kelly M. Kaitson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/48e10568-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly M. Kaitson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, CA 92078
Now Accepting New Clients! Do you feel you are not the best version of yourself? Are you feeling confused, scared, disconnected and lost? I am here to help. If you are being triggered by emotions and behaviors and it's making other problems in your life worse, I hope you will consider contacting me today. Supporting you at this time is my sincere desire and I'm here to tell you that there can be change, success and growth to bring forward your best version. I will equip you with tools and support so you not only get by but actually thrive. I look forward to speaking with you!
Now Accepting New Clients! Do you feel you are not the best version of yourself? Are you feeling confused, scared, disconnected and lost? I am here to help. If you are being triggered by emotions and behaviors and it's making other problems in your life worse, I hope you will consider contacting me today. Supporting you at this time is my sincere desire and I'm here to tell you that there can be change, success and growth to bring forward your best version. I will equip you with tools and support so you not only get by but actually thrive. I look forward to speaking with you!
![Photo of Theresa Mary Comito, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/408bd2a2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I will provide a supportive, empathic and non-judgmental space for you to explore problematic relationship styles, trauma, abuse, and loss in order to heal the past and promote a feeling of greater personal freedom. My therapeutic approach emphasizes "here and now" relationships, embracing your strengths and getting in touch with mind, body and spirit.
I will provide a supportive, empathic and non-judgmental space for you to explore problematic relationship styles, trauma, abuse, and loss in order to heal the past and promote a feeling of greater personal freedom. My therapeutic approach emphasizes "here and now" relationships, embracing your strengths and getting in touch with mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Kathleen (Katie) Shearman, MS, LPCC, LIMHP, Counselor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/68d5e906-f205-46c1-b0b3-74289666b7e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I have spent more than a decade in trauma work and understand the arduous process to release the debilitating grip past trauma can have on a client’s present-moment experience. I recognize the profound courage it takes to look deeply within. I prepare my clients to find that invisible line between comfort and discomfort to set the foundation for lifechanging results and encourage them to live in their own authentic truth. Trauma healing looks different for everyone and I work side by side with each of my clients to design a path of healing that feels right to them.
Welcome! I have spent more than a decade in trauma work and understand the arduous process to release the debilitating grip past trauma can have on a client’s present-moment experience. I recognize the profound courage it takes to look deeply within. I prepare my clients to find that invisible line between comfort and discomfort to set the foundation for lifechanging results and encourage them to live in their own authentic truth. Trauma healing looks different for everyone and I work side by side with each of my clients to design a path of healing that feels right to them.
![Photo of Pedro B. Ostrosky, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3e3e0dc6-fa20-4afe-9190-8f714c044e06/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bilingual (Spanish & English) services– Life can be difficult sometimes, when we experience anxiety, stress, sadness, and continuous disappointment or failure. Sometimes we manage to overcome them and other times we get used to living with those difficult emotions and negative thoughts, which negatively impact the way we perceive ourselves and the world. It shouldn't be like this! Suffering is inherent to life, however, it should not be greater than growth and satisfaction.
Bilingual (Spanish & English) services– Life can be difficult sometimes, when we experience anxiety, stress, sadness, and continuous disappointment or failure. Sometimes we manage to overcome them and other times we get used to living with those difficult emotions and negative thoughts, which negatively impact the way we perceive ourselves and the world. It shouldn't be like this! Suffering is inherent to life, however, it should not be greater than growth and satisfaction.
![Photo of Hanalei Vierra, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/5048a688-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you A GUY who feels confused and clueless about how to create a deeper emotional connection with your intimate partner? Perhaps just as important, is it possible for you to do that in a way that would not sacrifice your sense of masculinity?!? Not only is it possible for you to learn how to speak the Truth of how you feel in a way that will feel masculine, but it will also become a source of personal strength that will help you build a more mature and honest relationship with yourself and with the person you love. I have specialized in working with adult men for 35 years.
Are you A GUY who feels confused and clueless about how to create a deeper emotional connection with your intimate partner? Perhaps just as important, is it possible for you to do that in a way that would not sacrifice your sense of masculinity?!? Not only is it possible for you to learn how to speak the Truth of how you feel in a way that will feel masculine, but it will also become a source of personal strength that will help you build a more mature and honest relationship with yourself and with the person you love. I have specialized in working with adult men for 35 years.
![Photo of Debora Ramirez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/4e30cfc1-0090-4eb6-8a71-a8abb484d874/1/320x400.jpeg)
Debora Ramirez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
For over 10 years, I have been in the field working with youth, families, and adults through various life challenges toward a more enriching and fulfilling life. I love facilitating the therapeutic process because I believe that everyone deserves to be acknowledged and to have their voice found and heard. In the therapeutic work, I take into account the many identities we embody and how society and culture impact our mental health. It brings me great satisfaction and humility to be in a role where my clinical knowledge, skills, and warm approach nourishes transformation from distress to confidence and contentment.
For over 10 years, I have been in the field working with youth, families, and adults through various life challenges toward a more enriching and fulfilling life. I love facilitating the therapeutic process because I believe that everyone deserves to be acknowledged and to have their voice found and heard. In the therapeutic work, I take into account the many identities we embody and how society and culture impact our mental health. It brings me great satisfaction and humility to be in a role where my clinical knowledge, skills, and warm approach nourishes transformation from distress to confidence and contentment.
![Photo of Ina von Ber, PhD, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/593dc750-474a-47a1-ac0e-7ad58853cc94/2/320x400.jpeg)
LIFE & EXEC Coaching- Welcome, Willkommen, Bienvenue! Executives, Expats, Gov., Mil.,Diplomatic Community ! We work together to set & accomplish your goals! Clients successfully decreased stress & anxiety, achieve work-life balance, enhance communication & interpersonal skills, improve time management & productivity, sharpen decision-making skills, improve relationships with colleagues, friends, and family, gain clarity & focus on personal & professional goals, improve leadership and management skills, unleash creativity & innovation.
LIFE & EXEC Coaching- Welcome, Willkommen, Bienvenue! Executives, Expats, Gov., Mil.,Diplomatic Community ! We work together to set & accomplish your goals! Clients successfully decreased stress & anxiety, achieve work-life balance, enhance communication & interpersonal skills, improve time management & productivity, sharpen decision-making skills, improve relationships with colleagues, friends, and family, gain clarity & focus on personal & professional goals, improve leadership and management skills, unleash creativity & innovation.
![Photo of Fenela Pahed, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3e7baf33-a822-4832-9359-37f06b5be8a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Fenela Pahed and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT). I am based in Los Angeles, California. I currently provide therapy throughout the state of California via telehealth. I work with teens and adults focusing on depression, anxiety, life transitions, stress, and interpersonal relationships. I use multiple therapeutic approaches to best fit my clients' needs and provide guidance in finding their balance in life. I strive to help individuals learn skills and tools to set goals, identify action steps, and build confidence in navigating the ebbs and flows of life.
My name is Fenela Pahed and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT). I am based in Los Angeles, California. I currently provide therapy throughout the state of California via telehealth. I work with teens and adults focusing on depression, anxiety, life transitions, stress, and interpersonal relationships. I use multiple therapeutic approaches to best fit my clients' needs and provide guidance in finding their balance in life. I strive to help individuals learn skills and tools to set goals, identify action steps, and build confidence in navigating the ebbs and flows of life.
![Photo of Alexis Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/457a3313-6998-4ebb-9a4c-ba7068a06ce7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexis Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
My experiences in the past have taught me the importance of witnessing great pain and great joy. I believe we cannot have one without the other. I want to equip my clients with the hope that it is normal to feel any and every kind of emotion but also give them tools to cope effectively and learn from those emotions.
My experiences in the past have taught me the importance of witnessing great pain and great joy. I believe we cannot have one without the other. I want to equip my clients with the hope that it is normal to feel any and every kind of emotion but also give them tools to cope effectively and learn from those emotions.
See more therapy options for San Diego County
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in San Diego County, CA
3,000+
Average cost per session
$160
Therapists in San Diego County, CA who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
69% | Self Esteem |
66% | Coping Skills |
64% | Relationship Issues |
64% | Trauma and PTSD |
60% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
81% | Aetna |
76% | Cigna and Evernorth |
72% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in San Diego County, CA see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in San Diego County?
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.