Therapists in Okaloosa County, FL
![Photo of Cristina Lima, PhD, LMHC, LPC, LMFT, BCN](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50cad5ad-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cristina Lima
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC, LMFT, BCN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Destin, FL 32541
My name is Cristina Lima and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and a Board Certified in Neurofeedback. I have a PhD in Counseling. Besides my educational background, I have more than 23 years of professional counseling practice. I'm not even counting the several years of informal "counseling" with adults and teenagers that would request a ''moment of my time'' to discuss their personal issues - prior to even graduating from my bachelor's in psychology! Helping others is a passion that I have carried along for years - and keeps growing in me as I grow in my profession.
My name is Cristina Lima and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and a Board Certified in Neurofeedback. I have a PhD in Counseling. Besides my educational background, I have more than 23 years of professional counseling practice. I'm not even counting the several years of informal "counseling" with adults and teenagers that would request a ''moment of my time'' to discuss their personal issues - prior to even graduating from my bachelor's in psychology! Helping others is a passion that I have carried along for years - and keeps growing in me as I grow in my profession.
![Photo of Shae Nicole Luster, L, M, H, C, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e322bcd6-88b8-4fca-8276-f8f30a81330a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shae Nicole Luster
Counselor, L, M, H, C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crestview, FL 32536 (Online Only)
Do you struggle with anxious racing thoughts that won't go away ? It is like trying to hold an enormous inflatable beach ball under water, but it keeps popping up? When a person experiences trauma or life stressors it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. My purpose and passion is to bring healing to people who have been through traumatic/stressful experiences. I help my clients who include, adults, active duty military, veterans, and teens to find healthy perceptions of themselves, others and the world.
Do you struggle with anxious racing thoughts that won't go away ? It is like trying to hold an enormous inflatable beach ball under water, but it keeps popping up? When a person experiences trauma or life stressors it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. My purpose and passion is to bring healing to people who have been through traumatic/stressful experiences. I help my clients who include, adults, active duty military, veterans, and teens to find healthy perceptions of themselves, others and the world.
![Photo of Alina Griffith, MS, CCTP, ASDCS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f0ba45f-a63e-429c-8c8a-d39b8e657cb7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alina Griffith
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, CCTP, ASDCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Waitlist for new clients
I create a trusting space and build rapport so that you can have a place to process challenges, which also creates growth. Creating a safe space for my clients also means creating a space of compassion, empathy, understanding, and non-judgment. I value the transformative nature of a strong therapeutic relationship. Sometimes, there are disruptions in life that affect not only the present but the future as well. These disruptions can impact how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we perceive the world in a negative way. I draw from the modalities of CBT, DBT, Person-Centered Therapy, and SandTray Therapy.
I create a trusting space and build rapport so that you can have a place to process challenges, which also creates growth. Creating a safe space for my clients also means creating a space of compassion, empathy, understanding, and non-judgment. I value the transformative nature of a strong therapeutic relationship. Sometimes, there are disruptions in life that affect not only the present but the future as well. These disruptions can impact how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we perceive the world in a negative way. I draw from the modalities of CBT, DBT, Person-Centered Therapy, and SandTray Therapy.
![Photo of Lonelle Ordway, LCSW, QS, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e127bacd-b5a8-4265-aa61-04ac2693130a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lonelle Ordway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS, CCATP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Crestview, FL 32536
Waitlist for new clients
We have moved! Please see new address! Are you looking for support and understanding? To have someone in your corner when life feels overwhelming? Or maybe an unbiased ear to discuss a situation? I am skilled in a range of issues to include anxiety, depression, life changes, grief, child behavioral issues, mood and personality disorders, and adult/childhood trauma. I have been in private practice in Crestview the last three years and plan to stay! My office is centrally located and offers a relaxed and cozy setting. We are dog friendly so feel free to bring your best friend!
We have moved! Please see new address! Are you looking for support and understanding? To have someone in your corner when life feels overwhelming? Or maybe an unbiased ear to discuss a situation? I am skilled in a range of issues to include anxiety, depression, life changes, grief, child behavioral issues, mood and personality disorders, and adult/childhood trauma. I have been in private practice in Crestview the last three years and plan to stay! My office is centrally located and offers a relaxed and cozy setting. We are dog friendly so feel free to bring your best friend!
![Photo of Carolyn Posey, CMHC, Student, Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2a0cca4-403a-40ef-842b-72f28bfb142e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carolyn Posey
Pre-Licensed Professional, CMHC, Student, Intern
Verified Verified
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Are you experiencing roadblocks in life? Does it feel like there is something invisible standing in between you and where you would like to be? Do relationships cause you unwelcome stress and worry? Sometimes the first step towards healing is simply acknowledging that you need help, and that is what I am here for: to help you sort out your worries and anxieties, and to walk alongside you as you navigate how to work out some of the more difficult things in life.
Are you experiencing roadblocks in life? Does it feel like there is something invisible standing in between you and where you would like to be? Do relationships cause you unwelcome stress and worry? Sometimes the first step towards healing is simply acknowledging that you need help, and that is what I am here for: to help you sort out your worries and anxieties, and to walk alongside you as you navigate how to work out some of the more difficult things in life.
![Photo of Carmen Yvonne Brezna, LCSW, MT, ASCP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79d2e962-30c2-46ed-bb64-b02aa60c9e39/2/320x400.png)
Carmen Yvonne Brezna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MT, ASCP
Verified Verified
Niceville, FL 32578 (Online Only)
Do you suspect that you are stuck or overwhelmed by someone or something in your life? Anyone who struggles with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenges whether chronic or short-term life transitions can benefit from the social work approach of meeting the client where they are at and guide them through the identification of goals and to monitor progress. A short course of sessions or a longer therapy approach is decided with the collaboration of the client. In the safety of the confidential setting, any and all issues are discussed without judgement with the focus on how and why it has negatively impacted you.
Do you suspect that you are stuck or overwhelmed by someone or something in your life? Anyone who struggles with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenges whether chronic or short-term life transitions can benefit from the social work approach of meeting the client where they are at and guide them through the identification of goals and to monitor progress. A short course of sessions or a longer therapy approach is decided with the collaboration of the client. In the safety of the confidential setting, any and all issues are discussed without judgement with the focus on how and why it has negatively impacted you.
![Photo of Rebecca Bortnyik, MS, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7227385a-c4ae-45ba-895b-6232cab3218f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe insight and gained knowledge of self, plus learning skills can enable a person to live life to his/her potential. I help clients of all ages gain new perspectives, identify negative thinking patterns, develop a healthy expression of feelings. and problem solve.
I believe insight and gained knowledge of self, plus learning skills can enable a person to live life to his/her potential. I help clients of all ages gain new perspectives, identify negative thinking patterns, develop a healthy expression of feelings. and problem solve.
![Photo of Heidi Anderson, LCSW, PsyD, RPT, JSOT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcb55e10-3851-4a15-a08a-91f99b75fae5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heidi Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD, RPT, JSOT
Verified Verified
Shalimar, FL 32579 (Online Only)
My approach focuses on utilizing the brain’s ability to adapt through neuroplasticity to develop resiliency over experienced trauma. I have provided therapeutic services to a wide variety of populations including foster children, adjudicated adolescents, victims of domestic violence, service members and their families. I am truly in awe of the ability of the mind to recover and grow beyond the effects of trauma throughout the lifespan. My passion for this process has inspired me to pursue my doctorate in clinical psychology, in order to offer evidence based approaches that encourage lasting life change.
My approach focuses on utilizing the brain’s ability to adapt through neuroplasticity to develop resiliency over experienced trauma. I have provided therapeutic services to a wide variety of populations including foster children, adjudicated adolescents, victims of domestic violence, service members and their families. I am truly in awe of the ability of the mind to recover and grow beyond the effects of trauma throughout the lifespan. My passion for this process has inspired me to pursue my doctorate in clinical psychology, in order to offer evidence based approaches that encourage lasting life change.
![Photo of Mary Irby Ruckman, MA, RMHI, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbdfc514-6cb2-4db7-8731-8bfabbd9620a/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Licensed Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, I specialize in addressing childhood trauma across all age groups. Holding a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University, an accredited institution, and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University, my education forms a robust foundation in psychology, empowering me with practical insights. My passion lies in delivering specialized care by nurturing mental well-being through empathetic support and tailored interventions.
As a Licensed Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, I specialize in addressing childhood trauma across all age groups. Holding a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University, an accredited institution, and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University, my education forms a robust foundation in psychology, empowering me with practical insights. My passion lies in delivering specialized care by nurturing mental well-being through empathetic support and tailored interventions.
![Photo of Brooke L Harrison, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c4c850c-3251-41ed-a7c6-b315b889e236/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome, I am passionate about your potential to see change. I have noticed often people accept a harmful pattern, negative emotion or unrealized potential as a permanent part of their lives. I believe change is not only possible, but attainable. If one puts in the effort you can gain insight, recognize patterns, and start on your journey towards change. Your goal may be feeling more balanced or it could be for your child to display improved focus or self esteem. Let us partner together to make pivotal transitions in your life.
Welcome, I am passionate about your potential to see change. I have noticed often people accept a harmful pattern, negative emotion or unrealized potential as a permanent part of their lives. I believe change is not only possible, but attainable. If one puts in the effort you can gain insight, recognize patterns, and start on your journey towards change. Your goal may be feeling more balanced or it could be for your child to display improved focus or self esteem. Let us partner together to make pivotal transitions in your life.
![Photo of Erin R. Goodson, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc8ee66d-7d7f-4636-ade7-4e3bb3ef1151/3/320x400.jpeg)
The ideal client is an individual who desires help. I am not going to work harder than anyone to better themselves. You have to be willing to do the work with me. This work is hard. It is not fun to talk about things that you have struggled with and I deeply understand this. The reason I got into counseling is that I was forced to go to counseling as a child and refused to engage. It was not until I was a teenager and made the decision to ask for help, that it made a difference. Your desire and passion to want to make a difference in your life matters. I can help you on your path.
The ideal client is an individual who desires help. I am not going to work harder than anyone to better themselves. You have to be willing to do the work with me. This work is hard. It is not fun to talk about things that you have struggled with and I deeply understand this. The reason I got into counseling is that I was forced to go to counseling as a child and refused to engage. It was not until I was a teenager and made the decision to ask for help, that it made a difference. Your desire and passion to want to make a difference in your life matters. I can help you on your path.
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![Photo of Chelsie Braden, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b59a2dd1-1998-49a9-820f-8e8a2982f21c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsie Braden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Crestview, FL 32539 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I am Chelsie Braden, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida. I am an Army veteran. I have over 5 years of experience working in the mental health field. I work with clients who are experiencing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, domestic violence relationship, career challenges, addiction, trauma, and grief and loss. I am also a Geek/Nerd Culture informed therapist.
Hello, I am Chelsie Braden, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida. I am an Army veteran. I have over 5 years of experience working in the mental health field. I work with clients who are experiencing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, domestic violence relationship, career challenges, addiction, trauma, and grief and loss. I am also a Geek/Nerd Culture informed therapist.
![Photo of Julia Hunt, LCSW, BCD, TMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50c409f9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, TMHP
Verified Verified
Niceville, FL 32578 (Online Only)
In the past, you tackled life easily, enjoyed good friends, and felt good overall about your place in the world. But then something changed, either abruptly or gradually. Now your confidence is off, you doubt yourself, and feel disconnected to almost everyone. You want to feel like you again. You want a peaceful mind, relaxed around people, connected and present in your life.
In the past, you tackled life easily, enjoyed good friends, and felt good overall about your place in the world. But then something changed, either abruptly or gradually. Now your confidence is off, you doubt yourself, and feel disconnected to almost everyone. You want to feel like you again. You want a peaceful mind, relaxed around people, connected and present in your life.
![Photo of Christina Baker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/360a5a19-78e1-4696-a643-8ae5bcabb979/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Crestview, FL 32539 (Online Only)
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida with 8 years of professional experience. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults struggling with issues related to stress, life changes, anxiety, trauma, depression, self-esteem, ADD/ADHD, and anger. I am the spouse of a retired servicemember so I also have 20+ years of experience navigating the military lifestyle and am aware of the challenges faced by the military community. I earned my Bachelors in Social Work from the University of North Carolina- Wilmington. I went on to earn my Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Central Florida.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida with 8 years of professional experience. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults struggling with issues related to stress, life changes, anxiety, trauma, depression, self-esteem, ADD/ADHD, and anger. I am the spouse of a retired servicemember so I also have 20+ years of experience navigating the military lifestyle and am aware of the challenges faced by the military community. I earned my Bachelors in Social Work from the University of North Carolina- Wilmington. I went on to earn my Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Central Florida.
![Photo of Shareen Ancog, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26574d3b-376d-4cf5-8c67-b6bdeaea0830/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shareen Ancog
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
If you need help, I am here for you. Regardless of your mental health situation, I am committed to supporting you. I offer assistance with grief, PTSD, anxiety, depression, dissociation, bipolar disorder, body image issues, PNES, and various other concerns. My approach is transparent, and I tailor my methods to suit each unique situation. My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself through a variety of therapeutic processes, including CBT, DBT, self-havening, audio therapy, hypnotherapy, VNS activation, autogenics, EMDR, and IFS.
If you need help, I am here for you. Regardless of your mental health situation, I am committed to supporting you. I offer assistance with grief, PTSD, anxiety, depression, dissociation, bipolar disorder, body image issues, PNES, and various other concerns. My approach is transparent, and I tailor my methods to suit each unique situation. My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself through a variety of therapeutic processes, including CBT, DBT, self-havening, audio therapy, hypnotherapy, VNS activation, autogenics, EMDR, and IFS.
![Photo of Emily Sparks, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3eb5935-34b5-4a34-8761-47b39b2b10dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with 18 years of social work experience, and the last 7 of them have been in private practice. I graduated from Florida State University (Go Noles!) with my bachelor's and master's degrees in Social Work. I believe that you are your own best helper, and I serve as a companion to light the way in your healing journey. I help adults reconnect to their true, authentic self and gain the confidence to live the life they were meant for by addressing and treating unresolved trauma, codependency or difficulty managing emotions.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with 18 years of social work experience, and the last 7 of them have been in private practice. I graduated from Florida State University (Go Noles!) with my bachelor's and master's degrees in Social Work. I believe that you are your own best helper, and I serve as a companion to light the way in your healing journey. I help adults reconnect to their true, authentic self and gain the confidence to live the life they were meant for by addressing and treating unresolved trauma, codependency or difficulty managing emotions.
![Photo of Radford (Raffy) McGrath, MS, LMFT, LMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c4d78b1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Radford (Raffy) McGrath
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Destin, FL 32541
Leo Tolstoy wrote, "A successful marriage is not the result of how compatable a couple is, but how successfully they manage their incompatiblity." When people are affected by impressions from painful events, many aspects of their lives are affected, even if events are not consciously remembered. The gentle method of Rapid Resolution Therapy and brain based clinical hypnosis, is effective removing conflicts that have been blocking desired change. This method has been successful in overcoming resentment, anger, guilt, anxiety, panic attacks, nightmares, and much more, thus increasing the possibility of compatability and satisfying relationships.
Leo Tolstoy wrote, "A successful marriage is not the result of how compatable a couple is, but how successfully they manage their incompatiblity." When people are affected by impressions from painful events, many aspects of their lives are affected, even if events are not consciously remembered. The gentle method of Rapid Resolution Therapy and brain based clinical hypnosis, is effective removing conflicts that have been blocking desired change. This method has been successful in overcoming resentment, anger, guilt, anxiety, panic attacks, nightmares, and much more, thus increasing the possibility of compatability and satisfying relationships.
![Photo of Betsy Trahan, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbae5698-f8e1-4180-a60a-216efb7f0853/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel like you might have a mental health diagnosis that has gone untreated? Are you worried about your cognitive health and fear you or a loved one might be in decline? A psychological or neuropsychological evaluation can help answer these questions and provide recommendations for treatment so you can achieve the emotional and cognitive health you desire.
Do you feel like you might have a mental health diagnosis that has gone untreated? Are you worried about your cognitive health and fear you or a loved one might be in decline? A psychological or neuropsychological evaluation can help answer these questions and provide recommendations for treatment so you can achieve the emotional and cognitive health you desire.
![Photo of Amanda Shoemaker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60a06480-1348-4740-b653-c995affa59d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Shoemaker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 (Online Only)
Depression and anxiety can leave you feeling lonely, scared and vulnerable. But you're not. I work with clients using a combination of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to practice mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotional regulation and distress tolerance, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help challenge those irrational thoughts and replace them with more helpful, constructive ones. We will incorporate some solution-focused and strengths-based therapies as well.
Depression and anxiety can leave you feeling lonely, scared and vulnerable. But you're not. I work with clients using a combination of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to practice mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotional regulation and distress tolerance, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help challenge those irrational thoughts and replace them with more helpful, constructive ones. We will incorporate some solution-focused and strengths-based therapies as well.
![Photo of Claire Jones, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0661db9f-015a-4708-aa20-42136c985ae2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Claire Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Not accepting new clients
I am interested in working with individual or family clients from all walks of life, in the age range of small children all the way to geriatric clients. I want to help you to start improving your life from any starting point- I want to meet you where you are. I will help you to rebuild your sense of self, and manage your anxiety and depression with healthy coping skills. Life can throw a lot at us, and I would love to help you through grief, caretaking, family conflict, substance abuse, or identity issues.
I am interested in working with individual or family clients from all walks of life, in the age range of small children all the way to geriatric clients. I want to help you to start improving your life from any starting point- I want to meet you where you are. I will help you to rebuild your sense of self, and manage your anxiety and depression with healthy coping skills. Life can throw a lot at us, and I would love to help you through grief, caretaking, family conflict, substance abuse, or identity issues.
See more therapy options for Okaloosa County
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Okaloosa County, FL
200+
Average cost per session
$125
Therapists in Okaloosa County, FL who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
85% | Depression |
75% | Coping Skills |
74% | Self Esteem |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Stress |
64% | Relationship Issues |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
77% | Aetna |
75% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
73% | Optum |
How Therapists in Okaloosa County, FL see their clients
77% | In Person and Online | |
23% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
88% | Female | |
11% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Okaloosa 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.