Therapists in Boulder, CO

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Photo of Robert Wickersham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Robert Wickersham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCPT-II
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
As a humanistic licensed professional counselor, I envision my ideal client as an individual brimming with untapped potential, navigating the complex labyrinth of life's challenges. You may be an adult or an adolescent grappling with the nuances of ADHD, the shadows of depression, the restlessness of anxiety, or the echoes of past trauma. Perhaps you're seeking healing and growth, exploring pathways like EMDR or considering the transformative journey of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP). Your needs are unique, your story, profound. You are seeking to chart a course toward a life that feels both authentic and fulfilling.
As a humanistic licensed professional counselor, I envision my ideal client as an individual brimming with untapped potential, navigating the complex labyrinth of life's challenges. You may be an adult or an adolescent grappling with the nuances of ADHD, the shadows of depression, the restlessness of anxiety, or the echoes of past trauma. Perhaps you're seeking healing and growth, exploring pathways like EMDR or considering the transformative journey of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP). Your needs are unique, your story, profound. You are seeking to chart a course toward a life that feels both authentic and fulfilling.
(720) 796-4117 View (720) 796-4117
Photo of Steven Spatz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Steven Spatz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301
Not accepting new clients
UPDATED 3/13/24: NO openings at this time for new clients. I enjoy working with adults (18+ only) and specialize in working with sex therapy, men's issues, couples/open relationships/polyamory, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. To be clear, I work with female clients too. I also have a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ community. I believe that therapy has the power to bring about change in people's lives, as people are ready and willing to look at their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
UPDATED 3/13/24: NO openings at this time for new clients. I enjoy working with adults (18+ only) and specialize in working with sex therapy, men's issues, couples/open relationships/polyamory, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. To be clear, I work with female clients too. I also have a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ community. I believe that therapy has the power to bring about change in people's lives, as people are ready and willing to look at their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
(703) 596-4941 View (703) 596-4941
Photo of Julie L. Holburn, Counselor in Boulder, CO
Julie L. Holburn
Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC, EMDR
Not Verified Not Verified
3 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80303
Maybe you've been feeling anxious, depressed or your relationships are struggling. Feeling overwhelmed from depression, PTSD or anxiety can negatively affect your job, your confidence and your ability to be present on a daily basis. You might be thinking - "Nobody knows what I'm going through" - or have thoughts telling you - “You are not good enough.” Maybe you've felt lost and hopeless. You do not have to go through this alone.
Maybe you've been feeling anxious, depressed or your relationships are struggling. Feeling overwhelmed from depression, PTSD or anxiety can negatively affect your job, your confidence and your ability to be present on a daily basis. You might be thinking - "Nobody knows what I'm going through" - or have thoughts telling you - “You are not good enough.” Maybe you've felt lost and hopeless. You do not have to go through this alone.
(720) 897-3909 View (720) 897-3909
Photo of Madison Kennedy, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Boulder, CO
Madison Kennedy
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, APCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301  (Online Only)
Is your teen struggling but you’re not sure how to help? Are you having a hard time connecting with them? Or maybe you're an adult who had a particularly difficult childhood you'd like to work through? Our childhood can be filled with ups and downs, and we need someone we can trust to unpack it with. My approach is modern, honest, and empathetic. Together we'll challenge negative thinking patterns and build confidence, while also supporting you with the tools you need to feel more connected - to your teen, your parents, or yourself. I strive to build a welcoming environment that is worth your time and investment.
Is your teen struggling but you’re not sure how to help? Are you having a hard time connecting with them? Or maybe you're an adult who had a particularly difficult childhood you'd like to work through? Our childhood can be filled with ups and downs, and we need someone we can trust to unpack it with. My approach is modern, honest, and empathetic. Together we'll challenge negative thinking patterns and build confidence, while also supporting you with the tools you need to feel more connected - to your teen, your parents, or yourself. I strive to build a welcoming environment that is worth your time and investment.
(720) 487-1056 View (720) 487-1056
Photo of Janice Braly, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boulder, CO
Janice Braly
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Janice Braly is a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Northern Nevada. She provides therapy to individuals, couples, and families, including children from the age of 4. With a range of therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Play Therapy, Janice is skilled at treating a variety of issues including ADHD, anxiety, depression, and trauma, among others.
Janice Braly is a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Northern Nevada. She provides therapy to individuals, couples, and families, including children from the age of 4. With a range of therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Play Therapy, Janice is skilled at treating a variety of issues including ADHD, anxiety, depression, and trauma, among others.
(720) 903-4241 View (720) 903-4241
Thomas Zachar
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-C, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80303
Life can be really dang hard at times- together we can focus on personal growth, healing, and increasing the quality of your experience. Our relationship with others, our environments, and other dimensions of life is the core of who we are as humans. Fortunately, therapy is a tried and true version of this relationship that empowers us to accomplish mental health, wellness, and growth. I am here to connect with and understand your unique circumstances so that we can safely navigate any challenges that arise. My ideal world is one where we can all live in peace, harmony, and be able to express our inherent individuality.
Life can be really dang hard at times- together we can focus on personal growth, healing, and increasing the quality of your experience. Our relationship with others, our environments, and other dimensions of life is the core of who we are as humans. Fortunately, therapy is a tried and true version of this relationship that empowers us to accomplish mental health, wellness, and growth. I am here to connect with and understand your unique circumstances so that we can safely navigate any challenges that arise. My ideal world is one where we can all live in peace, harmony, and be able to express our inherent individuality.
(720) 983-3534 View (720) 983-3534
Photo of Alison Dearborn Somatic Psychotherapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Alison Dearborn Somatic Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SEP, IFS-Inf
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Adverse or traumatic experiences can be stored in our bodies and in our unconscious/subconscious minds, driving our behaviors and affecting our natural impulses that allow us to thrive. My clients seek freedom from out-dated mental and bodily reactions derived from these past experiences and/or traumatic events. They want their choice restored when making decisions, for cultivating and sustaining relationships, and in creating a meaningful life.
Adverse or traumatic experiences can be stored in our bodies and in our unconscious/subconscious minds, driving our behaviors and affecting our natural impulses that allow us to thrive. My clients seek freedom from out-dated mental and bodily reactions derived from these past experiences and/or traumatic events. They want their choice restored when making decisions, for cultivating and sustaining relationships, and in creating a meaningful life.
(720) 702-1275 View (720) 702-1275
Photo of Somatic Nature Therapy Institute, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Somatic Nature Therapy Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BMP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Whether you are an individual or couple looking for personal support, or a therapeutic practitioner looking to take your practice to another level of potency, the Somatic Wilderness Therapy Institute guides you in taking your ongoing growth and evolution to the next level. Our goal is to provide you with powerful, cutting-edge information and practices that support you in deeply listening to and trusting your own inner guidance. Each of our therapists draws on the support, wisdom, and interconnectedness of the body-mind-spirit along with that of the natural world in the growth and healing process as they work with you.
Whether you are an individual or couple looking for personal support, or a therapeutic practitioner looking to take your practice to another level of potency, the Somatic Wilderness Therapy Institute guides you in taking your ongoing growth and evolution to the next level. Our goal is to provide you with powerful, cutting-edge information and practices that support you in deeply listening to and trusting your own inner guidance. Each of our therapists draws on the support, wisdom, and interconnectedness of the body-mind-spirit along with that of the natural world in the growth and healing process as they work with you.
(720) 664-2710 View (720) 664-2710
Photo of Marissa G Katz, Clinical Social Work Candidate in Boulder, CO
Marissa G Katz
Clinical Social Work Candidate, MSW, SWC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80301
Waitlist for new clients
I truly believe that, when open and ready, we have the ability to recognize, acknowledge, and heal from the challenging beliefs and experiences from our past that may be impacting our present. My goal as a therapist is to meet you wherever you are, fully and without judgment, to join you on your journey to a more whole and valued sense of life and self. I aim for our time together to be built on mutual trust and authenticity. I work with clients of all ages and utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities and holistic approaches based on what serves each individual best and aligns with their interests and values.
I truly believe that, when open and ready, we have the ability to recognize, acknowledge, and heal from the challenging beliefs and experiences from our past that may be impacting our present. My goal as a therapist is to meet you wherever you are, fully and without judgment, to join you on your journey to a more whole and valued sense of life and self. I aim for our time together to be built on mutual trust and authenticity. I work with clients of all ages and utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities and holistic approaches based on what serves each individual best and aligns with their interests and values.
(720) 613-2293 View (720) 613-2293
Photo of Elyse Morgan, Psychologist in Boulder, CO
Elyse Morgan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301
My work rests on a profound respect for the human capacity to change and a deep appreciation of the impact of emotional pain on both mind and body. Indeed, I view many “symptoms” as creative attempts to cope under stress. This perspective emerged from 30+ years in practice, formal training, work at psychiatric hospitals and other facilities, experience as a supervisor and a teacher, and lived experience. Whereas my specific approach is individualized, my overall orientation privileges the relationship between therapist and client as a force for change and a window into other relationships, both historical and contemporary.
My work rests on a profound respect for the human capacity to change and a deep appreciation of the impact of emotional pain on both mind and body. Indeed, I view many “symptoms” as creative attempts to cope under stress. This perspective emerged from 30+ years in practice, formal training, work at psychiatric hospitals and other facilities, experience as a supervisor and a teacher, and lived experience. Whereas my specific approach is individualized, my overall orientation privileges the relationship between therapist and client as a force for change and a window into other relationships, both historical and contemporary.
(303) 442-8770 View (303) 442-8770
Photo of Katie Leiter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boulder, CO
Katie Leiter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, ART
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
We are all a product of our stories; the good, the bad, and everything between. Many times, we aren’t aware of how rooted we are in past beliefs and relationship narratives or how deeply they’ve impacted our current choices and decisions. Therapy allows us to uncover the different sides of ourselves, to unlearn unhelpful beliefs and to emphasize positive ones. Together, we can create a collaborative environment that will help you gain a greater sense of self-awareness. I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, depression and PTSD with a range of modalities including EMDR therapy, IFS and Accelerated Resolution Therapy.
We are all a product of our stories; the good, the bad, and everything between. Many times, we aren’t aware of how rooted we are in past beliefs and relationship narratives or how deeply they’ve impacted our current choices and decisions. Therapy allows us to uncover the different sides of ourselves, to unlearn unhelpful beliefs and to emphasize positive ones. Together, we can create a collaborative environment that will help you gain a greater sense of self-awareness. I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, depression and PTSD with a range of modalities including EMDR therapy, IFS and Accelerated Resolution Therapy.
(720) 792-2201 View (720) 792-2201
Photo of Chris Engler Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Boulder, CO
Chris Engler Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301  (Online Only)
Being human can be a beautiful, sacred, and rewarding experience. Yet, there are the inevitable moments of suffering that can leave us feeling overwhelmed, powerless, or lost. Suffering, whether trauma, depression, anxiety, or an intrusive thought, is hard to be with on our own. As a therapist, I want you to know you're not alone in these darker moments, and there is support for you in this wild, uncertain world. I am here to provide you with effective, practical therapeutic skills for greater resilience, confidence, and strength. I believe in your ability to heal, and live your best, most sacred life.
Being human can be a beautiful, sacred, and rewarding experience. Yet, there are the inevitable moments of suffering that can leave us feeling overwhelmed, powerless, or lost. Suffering, whether trauma, depression, anxiety, or an intrusive thought, is hard to be with on our own. As a therapist, I want you to know you're not alone in these darker moments, and there is support for you in this wild, uncertain world. I am here to provide you with effective, practical therapeutic skills for greater resilience, confidence, and strength. I believe in your ability to heal, and live your best, most sacred life.
(720) 664-4211 View (720) 664-4211
Photo of Heather Hans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boulder, CO
Heather Hans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80304
Dr. Hans is a licensed clinical social worker, certified clinical anxiety treatment professional, and certified holistic & intuitive coach. Her foundational clinical training was in attachments and patterns of human relationships using psychodynamic theory to understand human behavior. She owns a private practice in Colorado and has provided therapy for individuals of all age ranges, couples, families, and groups. Dr. Hans began her career as a CPA and university professor after earning her MBA, and she uses her dynamic experience to help truth seekers achieve concrete results in their mental health and wellness.
Dr. Hans is a licensed clinical social worker, certified clinical anxiety treatment professional, and certified holistic & intuitive coach. Her foundational clinical training was in attachments and patterns of human relationships using psychodynamic theory to understand human behavior. She owns a private practice in Colorado and has provided therapy for individuals of all age ranges, couples, families, and groups. Dr. Hans began her career as a CPA and university professor after earning her MBA, and she uses her dynamic experience to help truth seekers achieve concrete results in their mental health and wellness.
(720) 964-1547 View (720) 964-1547
Photo of Jake Sivinski, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boulder, CO
Jake Sivinski
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
As a psychotherapist I specialize in working with men, athletes, and adolescents as well as people suffering from anxiety, trauma, and depression . I believe that for change to occur, there must be a strong foundation of trust, safety, and openness to experience in the therapeutic relationship. I aim to cultivate healing relationships with my clients in which they can grow from these pillars to experiment with new ways of being. I view change as arising from increased awareness of our physical and emotional experience and I strive to help others develop these areas through the cultivation of mindfulness, authenticity, and openness.
As a psychotherapist I specialize in working with men, athletes, and adolescents as well as people suffering from anxiety, trauma, and depression . I believe that for change to occur, there must be a strong foundation of trust, safety, and openness to experience in the therapeutic relationship. I aim to cultivate healing relationships with my clients in which they can grow from these pillars to experiment with new ways of being. I view change as arising from increased awareness of our physical and emotional experience and I strive to help others develop these areas through the cultivation of mindfulness, authenticity, and openness.
(720) 928-2499 View (720) 928-2499
Photo of Body Image People Pleasing Anxiety Therapy Jacqueline Rose Richards-Shrestha, Counselor in Boulder, CO
Body Image People Pleasing Anxiety Therapy Jacqueline Rose Richards-Shrestha
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301
Does this resonate with you? You're constantly battling feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction with your appearance. Insecurity and frustration have become your daily companions. Lately, anxiety has been so overwhelming that you feel like crawling out of your skin. Instead, you find yourself numbing out—scrolling endlessly or overeating—stuck in a cycle of overwhelm. You know one thing for certain: you're ready for relief. You're eager to break free from the relentless barrage of critical thoughts. You're prepared to start feeling good enough, to find peace, and to embrace confidence and capability again. I'm here to help!
Does this resonate with you? You're constantly battling feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction with your appearance. Insecurity and frustration have become your daily companions. Lately, anxiety has been so overwhelming that you feel like crawling out of your skin. Instead, you find yourself numbing out—scrolling endlessly or overeating—stuck in a cycle of overwhelm. You know one thing for certain: you're ready for relief. You're eager to break free from the relentless barrage of critical thoughts. You're prepared to start feeling good enough, to find peace, and to embrace confidence and capability again. I'm here to help!
(720) 664-4459 View (720) 664-4459
Photo of Katy Lundy, Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate in Boulder, CO
Katy Lundy
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MA, MFTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80303
Do you just feel stuck and unsure how to move forward? Are you desiring more from your life and relationships? Are you longing for a deeper connection with yourself or with a partner? Do you struggle to communicate your wants and needs to your partner? Has sex become more of a struggle than a pleasure? Do these questions feel familiar? If so, you are not alone. I’ll be happy to help you uncover authenticity, transform painful patterns, and create a life that is aligned with your highest values and deepest desires. I aim to provide clients a course of therapy that is tailored to best suit your unique needs.
Do you just feel stuck and unsure how to move forward? Are you desiring more from your life and relationships? Are you longing for a deeper connection with yourself or with a partner? Do you struggle to communicate your wants and needs to your partner? Has sex become more of a struggle than a pleasure? Do these questions feel familiar? If so, you are not alone. I’ll be happy to help you uncover authenticity, transform painful patterns, and create a life that is aligned with your highest values and deepest desires. I aim to provide clients a course of therapy that is tailored to best suit your unique needs.
(970) 538-9956 View (970) 538-9956
Photo of Larson Mental Health-Jenna Seiss, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boulder, CO
Larson Mental Health-Jenna Seiss
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80303
Not accepting new clients
Every person should experience counseling at least once in their life, so I am happy to see you are taking the first step to being your best self. As your counselor, my goal is to empower you to be the version of yourself you dream to be. Everyone is capable of growth and healing, and I am here to be a partner on that journey. Whether you are looking to discuss a specific issue, or need support for life's daily stressors, I am equipped to help with difficulties such as anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, life transitions, self esteem issues, bullying and school issues, ADHD and insomnia.
Every person should experience counseling at least once in their life, so I am happy to see you are taking the first step to being your best self. As your counselor, my goal is to empower you to be the version of yourself you dream to be. Everyone is capable of growth and healing, and I am here to be a partner on that journey. Whether you are looking to discuss a specific issue, or need support for life's daily stressors, I am equipped to help with difficulties such as anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, life transitions, self esteem issues, bullying and school issues, ADHD and insomnia.
(720) 821-2044 View (720) 821-2044
Photo of Claudia Giron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boulder, CO
Claudia Giron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80301
Claudia is a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience working across diverse age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Holding both a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and a Master’s Degree in Social Welfare (MSW) from UCLA, Claudia is licensed in California and Colorado and is fluent in both English and Portuguese. Her expertise encompasses various evidence-based practices, including Family Structural Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), and Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP).
Claudia is a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience working across diverse age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Holding both a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and a Master’s Degree in Social Welfare (MSW) from UCLA, Claudia is licensed in California and Colorado and is fluent in both English and Portuguese. Her expertise encompasses various evidence-based practices, including Family Structural Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), and Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP).
(720) 734-5472 View (720) 734-5472
Photo of Philip K McBrain, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Philip K McBrain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Feeling stuck, depressed or dealing with anxiety? Maybe you're thinking about a life without substance use. Perhaps you're considering a career change or just feeling unhappy. Many issues stem from entrenched, automatic patterns of thought, feeling and behavior. Creating a meaningful, rich, satisfying life starts with awareness. Without awareness of our patterns, we remain perpetually stuck in our old ways. You can develop awareness and the personal insight necessary to work toward improved functioning and increase quality of life.
Feeling stuck, depressed or dealing with anxiety? Maybe you're thinking about a life without substance use. Perhaps you're considering a career change or just feeling unhappy. Many issues stem from entrenched, automatic patterns of thought, feeling and behavior. Creating a meaningful, rich, satisfying life starts with awareness. Without awareness of our patterns, we remain perpetually stuck in our old ways. You can develop awareness and the personal insight necessary to work toward improved functioning and increase quality of life.
(720) 445-9890 View (720) 445-9890
Photo of Paula Stephani, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO
Paula Stephani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Not accepting new clients
Are you experiencing anxiety or depression that keeps you from living fully? Are you feeling alone and grieving, having recently lost a loved one, a pet, a job, or a relationship? Perhaps you are going through a confusing life transition and are looking for a new sense of purpose and direction. It is challenging to look within yourself when things feel chaotic and painful, however looking within and developing a more compassionate relationship with all parts of yourself is the foundation for healing and possibility. There are times in everyone’s life when we need some extra support, and you don't need to walk this road alone.
Are you experiencing anxiety or depression that keeps you from living fully? Are you feeling alone and grieving, having recently lost a loved one, a pet, a job, or a relationship? Perhaps you are going through a confusing life transition and are looking for a new sense of purpose and direction. It is challenging to look within yourself when things feel chaotic and painful, however looking within and developing a more compassionate relationship with all parts of yourself is the foundation for healing and possibility. There are times in everyone’s life when we need some extra support, and you don't need to walk this road alone.
(720) 897-1950 View (720) 897-1950

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Boulder, CO

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Boulder, CO who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
85% Depression
84% Relationship Issues
79% Self Esteem
76% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
70% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

69% Aetna
61% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
59% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Boulder, CO see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
22% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Boulder?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.