Therapists in Illinois
![Photo of James E Myers, PsyD, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3eae0494-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with people who often have an issue or problem which prevents them from fully functioning in life, which affects their ability to be happy. This might be a relationship issue, a personality problem which has bothered them from childhood, or a bio-psycho-social issue like depression or anxiety. I seek to help people by developing a relationship in which we can work in a therapeutic modality that is appropriate for them.
I work with people who often have an issue or problem which prevents them from fully functioning in life, which affects their ability to be happy. This might be a relationship issue, a personality problem which has bothered them from childhood, or a bio-psycho-social issue like depression or anxiety. I seek to help people by developing a relationship in which we can work in a therapeutic modality that is appropriate for them.
![Photo of Jennifer Unger Kroc, MSW, LCSW, APHSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/f90ec702-f017-4797-a257-75ad39dec921/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Unger Kroc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, APHSW-C
Verified Verified
Geneva, IL 60134 (Online Only)
I believe we are not meant to go alone through life's challenges. Loss, grief, and unexpected changes; sense of purpose or meaning; questions of identity, gender, or sexuality; aging or illness; the role of spirituality in our lives - all of these can feel too overwhelming to sort through alone. In my practice, I offer space and support to bring fears and questions out of the darkness and into a shared, safe environment where they can be faced. I work with adults, teens, and youth ten and older, with a client-centered, strengths-based approach to help you find your best path forward.
I believe we are not meant to go alone through life's challenges. Loss, grief, and unexpected changes; sense of purpose or meaning; questions of identity, gender, or sexuality; aging or illness; the role of spirituality in our lives - all of these can feel too overwhelming to sort through alone. In my practice, I offer space and support to bring fears and questions out of the darkness and into a shared, safe environment where they can be faced. I work with adults, teens, and youth ten and older, with a client-centered, strengths-based approach to help you find your best path forward.
![Photo of Kimberly Thomas, MA, LPC, CCTPII, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/cc3a3ccf-649b-4818-ba31-451a54441c95/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTPII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I am a therapist at Astute Counseling Services, a private practice on the north side of Chicago. We specialize in the management and treatment of mental health issues using the latest theories, practices and clinical data. I am a talented and passionate professional with experience in anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and interpersonal issues. I am an empathetic and compassionate Clinical Mental Health Counselor who utilizes my educational background and experience to work with a diverse population of clients.
I am a therapist at Astute Counseling Services, a private practice on the north side of Chicago. We specialize in the management and treatment of mental health issues using the latest theories, practices and clinical data. I am a talented and passionate professional with experience in anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and interpersonal issues. I am an empathetic and compassionate Clinical Mental Health Counselor who utilizes my educational background and experience to work with a diverse population of clients.
![Photo of Joanie Albrecht, PhD](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/42a46c36-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Real change for real people. You may need short-term support to learn specific tools, or you may want to dig more deeply to recognize relationship patterns or other behaviors that get in the way of peace and happiness in your life. You may find yourself feeling depressed, anxious and in conflict with the ones you love. I would like to help you manage and resolve these feelings and to help you transform what feels like vulnerability into strength. We will work together to accomplish the goals we co-create.
Real change for real people. You may need short-term support to learn specific tools, or you may want to dig more deeply to recognize relationship patterns or other behaviors that get in the way of peace and happiness in your life. You may find yourself feeling depressed, anxious and in conflict with the ones you love. I would like to help you manage and resolve these feelings and to help you transform what feels like vulnerability into strength. We will work together to accomplish the goals we co-create.
![Photo of Jaclyn Feldman, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3bc6d411-c573-4d5e-b1bc-90779c14a77d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes life can feel like a road trip filled with an endless amount of obstacles and crossroads. Sometimes you feel stuck in one place, lost, or as if you’re driving on autopilot. It may even feel as though you hold too much baggage to move forward on your own. But I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to continue on this journey alone. I am here to help, and I would be honored to guide you toward your final destination. We can work together, in a collaborative partnership, to make way for living a full and meaningful life. My clients leave feeling supported, heard, validated, and often with an increased sense of readiness.
Sometimes life can feel like a road trip filled with an endless amount of obstacles and crossroads. Sometimes you feel stuck in one place, lost, or as if you’re driving on autopilot. It may even feel as though you hold too much baggage to move forward on your own. But I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to continue on this journey alone. I am here to help, and I would be honored to guide you toward your final destination. We can work together, in a collaborative partnership, to make way for living a full and meaningful life. My clients leave feeling supported, heard, validated, and often with an increased sense of readiness.
![Photo of Carrie Summers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/b0b6c3f3-87f7-4648-8377-1b097faa0f30/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ever ask yourself, ”How did I get here?” When you feel overwhelmed and discouraged, it's like trying to keep your head above water. Life can get hectic, basic everyday tasks become more difficult, relationships get strained, and the wear and tear of your different roles becomes harder and tougher to juggle. Finding a sense of emotional well-being and balance in life can sometimes feel like an impossible task, especially during unpredictable times. If you’re starting to question your values, your thoughts, or your choices because you know there’s more to life; I’m so glad you found me.
Ever ask yourself, ”How did I get here?” When you feel overwhelmed and discouraged, it's like trying to keep your head above water. Life can get hectic, basic everyday tasks become more difficult, relationships get strained, and the wear and tear of your different roles becomes harder and tougher to juggle. Finding a sense of emotional well-being and balance in life can sometimes feel like an impossible task, especially during unpredictable times. If you’re starting to question your values, your thoughts, or your choices because you know there’s more to life; I’m so glad you found me.
![Photo of Meredith Patterson, MS, NCC, LCPC](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/9673e16f-2709-43a2-af59-5fc604fbab7d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meredith Patterson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60628 (Online Only)
My name is Meredith Patterson. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and started practicing in 2017. I received my master's degree in Community Counseling from National Louis University. I have experience in working with adolescents and adults utilizing Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). The goal is to help clients overcome the barriers that keep them from living the life they want to live. I am passionate about helping clients see their full potential and move past the things that have kept them stuck.
My name is Meredith Patterson. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and started practicing in 2017. I received my master's degree in Community Counseling from National Louis University. I have experience in working with adolescents and adults utilizing Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). The goal is to help clients overcome the barriers that keep them from living the life they want to live. I am passionate about helping clients see their full potential and move past the things that have kept them stuck.
![Photo of Lydia Tracy, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/46cc24cd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whatever you're facing, when you're in therapy with me, you can bring your mess. No need to have it together, or know where to begin. Your therapy is customized to you, so it starts with learning your story and understanding your needs. Then, we work together toward the changes you want to see.
Whatever you're facing, when you're in therapy with me, you can bring your mess. No need to have it together, or know where to begin. Your therapy is customized to you, so it starts with learning your story and understanding your needs. Then, we work together toward the changes you want to see.
![Photo of Jennifer L. Rolnick, PsyD, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3ce51fd7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My clinical practice focuses on individual therapy and psychological and psycho-educational testing with children, adolescents, and adults. My areas of expertise include trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, and life transitions. I use an insight-oriented, relational approach with an emphasis on collaboration, connection, and empowerment. The therapeutic relationship facilitates growth by identifying and exploring both past and present patterns that keep people feeling stuck. I see therapy as a collaborative effort that allows people observe and more deeply understand themselves, their relationship patterns, and their characteristic ways of thinking and feeling.
My clinical practice focuses on individual therapy and psychological and psycho-educational testing with children, adolescents, and adults. My areas of expertise include trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, and life transitions. I use an insight-oriented, relational approach with an emphasis on collaboration, connection, and empowerment. The therapeutic relationship facilitates growth by identifying and exploring both past and present patterns that keep people feeling stuck. I see therapy as a collaborative effort that allows people observe and more deeply understand themselves, their relationship patterns, and their characteristic ways of thinking and feeling.
![Photo of Tony Peters, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/9a9bc0c3-f468-4f2f-9031-9dee17281583/1/320x400.png)
I believe the catalyst for change lies in acknowledging aspects of your life that no longer serve you. This recognition, along with a genuine desire for change, provides the foundation for your collaborative journey. Drawing on diverse perspectives and each person's unique experience, my role is to guide you toward not just believing but envisioning the effectiveness of the solutions we co-create. Together, we'll identify a path toward meaningful and sustainable change with clear goals and tangible steps, where you feel empowered to take action.
I believe the catalyst for change lies in acknowledging aspects of your life that no longer serve you. This recognition, along with a genuine desire for change, provides the foundation for your collaborative journey. Drawing on diverse perspectives and each person's unique experience, my role is to guide you toward not just believing but envisioning the effectiveness of the solutions we co-create. Together, we'll identify a path toward meaningful and sustainable change with clear goals and tangible steps, where you feel empowered to take action.
![Photo of Rebecca Allison Brand, LCPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/bf6a351c-92e6-4117-83cf-8caee8bb0583/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Allison Brand
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glen Carbon, IL 62034
Do you ever have something you want to say but restrain yourself from doing so out of fear of others' reactions? The truth is what we tell ourselves others think can be a barrier when building an ideal lifestyle. A simple task such as a walk or puzzle quiets negative thoughts and allows you to open up to get the most out of your session. If you are experiencing decreased self-esteem, depression, anxiety, or relationship troubles, or eating concerns feel free to reach out by phone or email!
Do you ever have something you want to say but restrain yourself from doing so out of fear of others' reactions? The truth is what we tell ourselves others think can be a barrier when building an ideal lifestyle. A simple task such as a walk or puzzle quiets negative thoughts and allows you to open up to get the most out of your session. If you are experiencing decreased self-esteem, depression, anxiety, or relationship troubles, or eating concerns feel free to reach out by phone or email!
15 Second Videos
Jaclyn Feldman
Rebecca Allison Brand
Lynette Collins
Fluckin' Therapy
Tyra Cobbs
Oluwatamilore 'tami' Odimayo
Nathan Robbel
Renee Klyczek Nordstrom
Firas Qureshi
Lily Counseling
Denea N Bialeschki
Maryelizabeth Aguado
Felix K Deiss
Melanie Schwaba
Jonna Mogab
Dominique Barnes-Walker
Abigail Slager
Michal Rosenberg
Erika Gilyot-Montgomery
Dawn Health - Katie Fee
Jennifer Goss
Falisa Byers
Frank E. Cushing
Jasmine Remmer
Kasia Tomanek
Mitchell Davenport
Allison Schentrup
Jake Hogan
Flourish Counseling & Wellness
Steff Du Bois
Health in Tandem
Cynthia M Stafford
Anna Netzel
Erin Johnston
Jess Henry
Mandy Snider
Calm Anxiety Clinic
Emily Gumm
Bradley Counseling & Consulting LLC
Sonya Avendano Dove
Rosa V. King
Diona R. Shelton
Erik Schuster
Lynda Throm
Debbie Carsten
Emily Wegenke
Jacqueline Allen
Conor Klusendorf
Carli Recker
Joey Marchese
![Photo of Kevin Treloar, MA, LCSW, DCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3c2f12e4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kevin Treloar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
Edwardsville, IL 62025
Almost all of us struggle, from time to time, with worry, unhappiness, self-hate, despair and anger. With too many negative feelings, our interpersonal lives can become conflicted and dysfunctional. We may lose our friends, job, or even our life partner, Further, we may turn to any number of drugs or behaviors to try to manage our pain.
Psychotherapy helps us to understand, cope with, and even change our painful feelings and behaviors. The goal is to enjoy and engage in life more fully, and move towards the goals that will give our lives meaning and value.
Almost all of us struggle, from time to time, with worry, unhappiness, self-hate, despair and anger. With too many negative feelings, our interpersonal lives can become conflicted and dysfunctional. We may lose our friends, job, or even our life partner, Further, we may turn to any number of drugs or behaviors to try to manage our pain.
Psychotherapy helps us to understand, cope with, and even change our painful feelings and behaviors. The goal is to enjoy and engage in life more fully, and move towards the goals that will give our lives meaning and value.
![Photo of Lauren A Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/a7ba6ee4-08ad-49b6-9f2a-9655b326e296/2/320x400.jpeg)
Feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, or major life changes? Looking to create meaning in your life or just find some peace amongst the chaos? Finding the right therapist can make all the difference in overcoming any adversities you may currently face and get you on the path to achieving your goals! As a LCSW with a graduate degree from University of Chicago’s School of Social Administration I feel strongly that the therapy process is a dynamic relationship between therapist and client.
Feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, or major life changes? Looking to create meaning in your life or just find some peace amongst the chaos? Finding the right therapist can make all the difference in overcoming any adversities you may currently face and get you on the path to achieving your goals! As a LCSW with a graduate degree from University of Chicago’s School of Social Administration I feel strongly that the therapy process is a dynamic relationship between therapist and client.
![Photo of Julie Tucker-Ponder, LCSW, CADC, MAATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/5e408f34-0510-4ab8-b517-69d5341a547d/2/320x400.png)
Julie Tucker-Ponder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, MAATP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
I am the co-president of a Psychiatric Assoc. Of Central Illinois and the founder of Pastures of Hope and J. Ponder Counseling & Coaching. I have been an LCSW and a certified addiction counselor in Illinois for over 27 years. Most recently, I have earned my certification as a life coach and am the behavioral specialist at Losin’ It with Sonya Jones.
I am the co-president of a Psychiatric Assoc. Of Central Illinois and the founder of Pastures of Hope and J. Ponder Counseling & Coaching. I have been an LCSW and a certified addiction counselor in Illinois for over 27 years. Most recently, I have earned my certification as a life coach and am the behavioral specialist at Losin’ It with Sonya Jones.
![Photo of Cassandra Laskowski, MA, CADC, LCPC, CKAP, Counselor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/1ab3faba-b3a0-4d2c-bca6-c816c8dd6374/1/320x400.jpeg)
Have you been walking in the dark of depression alone? Are you feeling anxious and lost? Are you struggling with trauma? I am a licensed therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I focus my work with a compassion, empathy, and growth. I help individuals understand feelings of exclusion and loneliness, difficulties with attachment, depression, anxiety, and complex trauma. I work particularly well with helping professionals, queer-identified individuals, trauma survivors, neurodivergence, and anxiety/depression. With my unique clinical perspective, we can help you heal so you don't have to walk in the dark anymore.
Have you been walking in the dark of depression alone? Are you feeling anxious and lost? Are you struggling with trauma? I am a licensed therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I focus my work with a compassion, empathy, and growth. I help individuals understand feelings of exclusion and loneliness, difficulties with attachment, depression, anxiety, and complex trauma. I work particularly well with helping professionals, queer-identified individuals, trauma survivors, neurodivergence, and anxiety/depression. With my unique clinical perspective, we can help you heal so you don't have to walk in the dark anymore.
![Photo of Elle Kirby, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/c3896834-4bda-48bf-a48a-95312d9afb76/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to taking the first step on your healing journey! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the Chicago area, with experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I am passionate about working with clients of all ages to help reduce stress, gain resilience, and improve quality of life in a holistic manner. I am also a certified yoga teacher and specialize in managing the mind-body connection, with options to incorporate physical movement in tandem with mindfulness exercises.
Welcome to taking the first step on your healing journey! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the Chicago area, with experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I am passionate about working with clients of all ages to help reduce stress, gain resilience, and improve quality of life in a holistic manner. I am also a certified yoga teacher and specialize in managing the mind-body connection, with options to incorporate physical movement in tandem with mindfulness exercises.
![Photo of Jen Curley, LCSW, MSS, MLSP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/e840327e-cd4d-4dc3-b6f1-8b47c5677d21/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jen Curley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSS, MLSP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My approach to therapy is grounded in relational, body-centered, trauma-informed, and anti-oppression frameworks and practices. I believe deeply that people are the experts of their own experience and work to create a space that honors all of who we are. I bring an understanding of the impact of oppression and violence on our lives and the communities we are a part of. I see therapy as a process that is active, experiential, and collaborative. In our work together, I integrate mind-body awareness and value the big shifts, small moments, and non-linear paths that often characterize both therapy and healing.
My approach to therapy is grounded in relational, body-centered, trauma-informed, and anti-oppression frameworks and practices. I believe deeply that people are the experts of their own experience and work to create a space that honors all of who we are. I bring an understanding of the impact of oppression and violence on our lives and the communities we are a part of. I see therapy as a process that is active, experiential, and collaborative. In our work together, I integrate mind-body awareness and value the big shifts, small moments, and non-linear paths that often characterize both therapy and healing.
![Photo of Lynette Collins, LCPC, Counselor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/0bff6ec2-19f3-4955-b115-816cd6569aaf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor from Chicago IL. I have 14 years of experience providing therapy to an array of clients such as caregivers of people living with Alzheimer's disease, as well as women, people of color and the LGBTQIA+ community. Do you want to get rid of imposter syndrome or learn how to love yourself? I have experience working with people attempting to cope with many concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, grief, relational issues, career & work situations, self-esteem and caregiver stress.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor from Chicago IL. I have 14 years of experience providing therapy to an array of clients such as caregivers of people living with Alzheimer's disease, as well as women, people of color and the LGBTQIA+ community. Do you want to get rid of imposter syndrome or learn how to love yourself? I have experience working with people attempting to cope with many concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, grief, relational issues, career & work situations, self-esteem and caregiver stress.
![Photo of Dimitria Vandarakis, MS, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3ddd0096-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dimitria Vandarakis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
People are compassionate beings and I treat each with care, support and respect. Over the years, I have learned to treat the whole mind and whole body. I have learned you can not treat one without the other. Understanding the interconnectedness of the mind and body has been my life's passion. In the 24 years of providing clinical treatment, I take a multidisciplinary approach to therapy. I use an innovative array of therapies and techniques depending on your situation and way of learning. I believe every one experiences life differently and every one is a teacher to each other.
People are compassionate beings and I treat each with care, support and respect. Over the years, I have learned to treat the whole mind and whole body. I have learned you can not treat one without the other. Understanding the interconnectedness of the mind and body has been my life's passion. In the 24 years of providing clinical treatment, I take a multidisciplinary approach to therapy. I use an innovative array of therapies and techniques depending on your situation and way of learning. I believe every one experiences life differently and every one is a teacher to each other.
![Photo of Letha Rivet Howell, LMHC](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/07b3c5f9-366b-43aa-86f8-04bb4ead7835/2/320x400.jpeg)
Letha Rivet Howell
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606 (Online Only)
Hello, Im a licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) (LMHC) based in Illinois and Florida. I received my Masters degree in 2011 from Capella University in MN and have been practicing for past 13 years. Ive helped hundreds of adults and children with issues ranging from depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, ODD, Bi Polar D/O as well as BPD as well as other personality D/O, I'm here to help my clients realize the life that they could have once relieved of some of the issues mentioned above is treated.
Hello, Im a licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) (LMHC) based in Illinois and Florida. I received my Masters degree in 2011 from Capella University in MN and have been practicing for past 13 years. Ive helped hundreds of adults and children with issues ranging from depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, ODD, Bi Polar D/O as well as BPD as well as other personality D/O, I'm here to help my clients realize the life that they could have once relieved of some of the issues mentioned above is treated.
See more therapy options for Illinois
How does your Therapist compare?
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Illinois who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
76% | Relationship Issues |
75% | Self Esteem |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Coping Skills |
66% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
64% | Aetna |
54% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Illinois see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Illinois?
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.