Frequently Asked Questions

Therapy, also called psychotherapy or counseling, is a confidential relationship between you and a trained mental health professional. Through talking, you explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to gain insight, develop coping skills, and improve your well-being. Different therapy approaches work in different ways, but all aim to help you feel better and function more effectively.

The length of therapy varies widely based on your needs and concerns. Some people benefit from short-term therapy (8-12 weeks), while others continue for several months or years. Your therapist will work with you to establish goals and estimate duration. Progress isn't always linear, and it's common to adjust the timeline as you go. The important thing is committing to the process.

Yes, therapy is strictly confidential. Therapists are legally bound by confidentiality laws and ethical codes. However, there are limited exceptions: if you're a danger to yourself or others, if you disclose abuse of a child or vulnerable adult, or if a court orders records disclosure. Your therapist will explain these limits at the beginning of treatment.

The terms are often used interchangeably, though they can have slight differences. Generally, therapy (particularly psychotherapy) goes deeper into exploring patterns and underlying issues, often long-term. Counseling is more focused on specific issues or life challenges, often short-term. However, many professionals use both terms for their practice.

Therapy can be highly effective at reducing symptoms and improving functioning. For some conditions like depression and anxiety, therapy can lead to full recovery. For others like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, therapy works alongside medication to manage symptoms. Think of therapy as building skills and insight that help you navigate mental health challenges throughout life.

You can find a therapist through: our TherapistFinder directory, your insurance provider's network, referrals from your doctor, online therapy platforms, community mental health centers, or professional associations. Use our browse and search features to filter by specialty, location, insurance, and treatment approaches. Read profiles carefully and don't hesitate to call for a brief consultation.

Look for licensed therapists with credentials like LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor), LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist), PhD or PsyD in psychology, or MD/DO in psychiatry. Check that licenses are current by verifying on your state's licensing board. Experience with your specific concerns is also important-ask about their training and background.

While shared experience can sometimes help build rapport, a good therapist doesn't need to have personally experienced your concerns. What matters most is their training, experience treating your specific issue, and their ability to understand and empathize. Many excellent therapists help people with issues they haven't personally faced. The therapeutic relationship and their skills matter most.

It's absolutely okay to switch therapists. Finding the right fit may take time, and therapy only works if you feel comfortable and heard. If you're not connecting with your current therapist after 3-4 sessions, discuss it with them or seek someone else. A good therapist will understand and support you finding someone who's a better match.

Therapy costs vary widely. Private pay typically ranges from $75-$200+ per session depending on the therapist's experience and location. Many therapists offer sliding scale fees based on income. Insurance can significantly reduce costs with a copay, usually $15-$50 per session. Community mental health centers, university clinics, and online platforms offer more affordable options. Ask about payment plans or financial assistance when contacting therapists.

Most health insurance plans cover mental health treatment due to mental health parity laws. However, coverage varies by plan. Check your insurance benefits or call your provider to learn about: copays, deductibles, number of covered sessions annually, whether you need a referral, and if preauthorization is required. Remember that using insurance means your information is shared with the insurance company, though it's protected by HIPAA.

In-network therapists have contracted rates with your insurance, so you pay less (usually just a copay). Out-of-network therapists aren't contracted, so you may pay more upfront and submit claims for reimbursement. Some therapists are out-of-network by choice to avoid insurance restrictions and have more control over their practice. Compare costs before deciding-sometimes the best therapist for you is worth paying more.

Several options exist for affordable care: community mental health centers offer sliding scale fees, university psychology clinics provide services by graduate students at reduced rates, some therapists offer reduced fees for limited-income clients, employer EAP programs often provide free sessions, online therapy platforms cost less than traditional therapy, and crisis hotlines provide free support. Don't let cost prevent you from seeking help-options are available.

Research shows online therapy is generally as effective as in-person therapy for most conditions. The therapeutic relationship-which is the most important factor in success-develops similarly online and in person. Online therapy works well for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and many other issues. However, some severe mental illnesses or crisis situations may require in-person care. Ask your potential therapist if they think online is appropriate for your situation.

You'll need a reliable internet connection, a device with video capability (computer, tablet, or smartphone), and a private, quiet space where you won't be interrupted. Most therapists use secure video platforms. Some offer phone sessions or messaging options if video isn't feasible. Test your technology before your first session to avoid technical difficulties.

Reputable online therapy platforms use encrypted, HIPAA-compliant video. However, security varies by platform. Choose therapists and platforms that explicitly state they use secure encryption. Remember that video sessions mean your therapist is seeing your home environment, so choose a private space. If you're concerned about privacy, discuss this with your therapist-they may suggest phone sessions or recommend changes to your setup.