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Need to talk to someone? Specialists are available for confidential telephone counseling and longer-term help.

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Therapy is For Everyone. Here's a Guide - Free and Affordable Counseling in Your Area

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Therapy is for EVERYONE. Here's a guide. - OpenCounseling

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OpenCounseling make great therapy available to ALL. Find a therapist, learn how it works and succeed. Get tutorials, videos, guides and more!

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4 Apps To Help You Find A Therapist That Works For You

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If you’ve ever sought help from a mental health professional, you know just how important it is to find the right fit. Just like any other kind of relationship, you want to feel comfortable and understood by your therapist, especially when it comes…

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Most of us have finally grokked that talking to a trained mental health professional when you can't self-help yourself out of an emotional pothole or have a problem that's too complicated to work out with a friend can be an enormous help.

But for some of us - maybe you can't find the right therapist near you, or your life is wall-to-wall obligations - it can be hard to travel to an office, have your session and get back at least once a week.

That's where therapy apps that let you find someone great to speak to via phone, text, or video can be a godsend. "For some people, it can be supplemental to in-person therapy, and for others it can stand alone," says Rachel Rothman, Chief Technologist and Engineering Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute, who cites lower cost, greater discretion, and a wide pool of types of therapists to choose from as some of the other benefits to "telemental health." And the best platforms are very secure, she adds. "Online platforms are also designed with privacy and security measures that rival that of the banking world."

And while it may feel weird for anyone who isn't a teenager to spill your guts into a face on your iPhone, an analysis of studies found telemental health to be very helpful in many cases, including for people with diagnosable disorders such as depression and anxiety, or substance abuse issues, and for folks dealing with quality of life issues like stress and low self-esteem. Another review of the research found that telemental health is comparable to in-person services, less expensive, and is a particular boon to people who live in more isolated areas.

Want to find someone you click with, and "meet" with them on your own couch as opposed to theirs? Some things to keep in mind: "When choosing a platform, it's important to ensure that it is HIPAA compliant and has rigorous privacy standards," including encryption, says Rothman (some offer the the option to withhold your last name as well.) "You'll also want to check the credentials of the counselors on the site, and in particular the therapist you'll be working with." Check that the platform screens for therapists' credentials and licensing in your locality. "Many set minimum standards for the types of licenses and experiences the clinicians must have," she says. Prices vary, depending on how you communicate with your therapist and how often you use it, but they are usually less than you'd pay for in-person help, and some are covered by insurance.

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5 Best Therapy Apps for Mental Health, According to Our Experts

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Most of us have finally grokked that talking to a trained mental health professional when you can't self-help yourself out of an emotional pothole or have a problem that's too complicated to work out with a friend can be an enormous help.

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How to start therapy as a beginner- STEP BY STEP

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17 Best Psychology Books To Get the Most Out Of Therapy | BetterHelp

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There are a lot of things you can do to help you get the most out of therapy, such as following the advice of your therapist and doing your homework assignments. But there are other things that you can do to get the most out of your therapeutic experience.

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Just about anyone could benefit from some time with a therapist. They can help us manage stress, improve our relationships, and so much more-but therapy is expensive. So if you don't have the resources to speak with a professional, what should you do?

Fortunately, the seven superb books below contain many key insights that you might receive from a therapist. Reading them may not provide all the benefits of seeing a shrink, but until you're ready to try therapy, checking out these books might be the next best thing.

Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself

By Nedra Glover Tawwab

Rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), the techniques shared by influential therapist Nedra Glover Tawwab help us identify and express our needs clearly-and resolve a key issue behind codependency, power struggles, anxiety, depression, burnout, and more.

Listen to our "Book Bite" summary on the app

The Socrates Express: Searching for Life Lessons from Dead Philosophers

By Eric Weiner

The bestselling author of The Geography of Bliss embarks on a rollicking intellectual journey, following in the footsteps of history's greatest thinkers and showing us how each-from Epicurus to Gandhi, Thoreau to Beauvoir-offers practical and spiritual lessons for today's unsettled times.

Listen to our "Book Bite" summary on the app

Maybe You Should Talk to Someone: A Therapist, Her Therapist, and Our Lives Revealed

By Lori Gottlieb

Maybe You Should Talk to Someone offers a deeply personal yet universal tour of our hearts and minds, providing the rarest of gifts: a boldly revealing portrait of what it means to be human, and a disarmingly funny and illuminating account of our own mysterious lives-and our power to transform them. View on Amazon

My Inner Sky: On Embracing Day, Night, and All the Times in Between

By Mari Andrew

Writer and illustrator Mari Andrew explores all the emotions that make up a life, in the process offering insights about trauma and healing, the meaning of home, the challenges of loneliness, and finding love in the most unexpected of places.

Listen to our "Book Bite" summary on the app

Being the Person Your Dog Thinks You Are: The Science of a Better You

By Jim Davies

Your dog thinks you're probably the best person in the world. After all, enduring your absence for even half an hour stresses her out. So if you want to become every bit as kind, generous, and wise as she thinks you are, crack open this book by cognitive scientist Jim Davies.

Listen to our "Book Bite" summary on the app

The Child in You: The Breakthrough Method for Bringing Out Your Authentic Self

By Stefanie Stahl

At long last, this million-copy international bestseller is available for English-speaking readers. Clinical psychologist Stefanie Stahl explains how to shed past traumas and societal pressures to uncover your most joyful, most authentic self.

Listen to our "Book Bite" summary on the app

The Book of Moods: How I Turned My Worst Emotions into My Best Life

By Lauren Martin

With a good job and healthy relationships, Lauren Martin seemed to have it all-but she couldn't shake persistent feelings of inferiority, irritability, and more. The Book of Moods is her deep dive into what causes such negative emotions, what purpose they serve, and how anyone can manage them more effectively.

Listen to our "Book Bite" summary on the app
To enjoy Book Bites from anywhere, download the Next Big Idea app today:

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7 Books That Are Almost as Good as a Therapy Session

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Just about anyone could benefit from some time with a therapist. They can help us manage stress, improve our relationships, and so much more-but therapy is expensive. So if you don't have the resources to speak with a professional, what should you do?

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Therapy is designed to help you feel better and live better. Here are some tips to help you get started.

Therapy, also known as psychotherapy, talk therapy, or counseling, aims to help you tackle troubling emotions, thoughts, behaviors or life situations.

On a routine basis, therapy involves visiting with a mental health professional one-on-one, whether online or in person. Starting psychotherapy is a personal decision, so you decide what environment or schedule works best for you.

Everyone's reasons for seeking therapy are different. Some people attend therapy every week for years, while others just go for a few sessions. Most importantly, if you feel like you need someone to talk to right now, or if difficulties are greatly interfering with your life - this is probably a good time to start therapy!

Therapy aims to investigate the root cause of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Your therapist can help you shine a light on harmful patterns, and assist you with adjusting and coping.

People seek out therapy for a variety of reasons, including:

managing long-term or severe stress

discussing personal issues you don't feel safe or comfortable talking about elsewhere

processing a traumatic event

major life events, such as the loss of a loved one, a new move, or relationship issues

experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, or are concerned you may have a mental health condition

having been diagnosed with a mental health condition, and needing help coping with your symptoms

Let's look at some general tips for starting therapy.

Primary care physicians and family doctors are a great resource for whole-body health issues. Your doctor can refer you to a mental health professional that fits your needs.

Mental health is just as important as physical health, so be open and honest about how you're feeling, and don't be afraid to ask questions.

Primary care physicians often refer people to a psychiatrist, which is a mental health professional who can prescribe medication. If you want a referral to a therapist or counselor, request this early on.

While your doctor might have a name in mind right away, you can also do your own research.

Sometimes, it's helpful to bring a loved one to your first appointment for emotional support. You may feel nervous or anxious, and feel more comfortable knowing that someone you trust is waiting outside.

If you feel like having a loved one in the room with you would be helpful, you might consider:

You can consider your therapy sessions a no-judgment zone, so make sure you remain as open and honest as possible at all times!

If you are over 18, your therapist is bound by confidentiality. This means anything you discuss in your sessions is completely private - with exceptions including homicide, suicide, and abuse.

If you are under 18, therapists are trained to bring information to parents only in rare circumstances, and the therapist will inform the client before they do so.

Having clear communication and a secure level of trust allows therapy to work effectively and efficiently. The more information your therapist has, the more they can help. Try to explain your symptoms in detail, including severity and frequency.

A strong relationship with a mental health professional depends on communication from both parties.

Feel free to ask questions, whether about the process of therapy or your symptoms. Your therapist is there to not only listen, but also to give you constructive feedback and guidance.

This includes openly discussing your goals with your therapist. Ask yourself, "What do I want to get out of therapy?"

Your therapist will also have some questions for you. Their queries may include basic demographic information and your reasons for seeking therapy.

If you don't feel an ideal connection with the first therapist you try - don't stress! This is completely normal, and you may have to meet a few different therapists until you find the one right for you.

First impressions can be misleading, so even if you don't click right away, it can be helpful to give that therapist a try for a few sessions, and then switch if needed.

The American Psychological Association estimates there are 85,000 licensed psychologists in the United States, so you have plenty of options to choose from.

When you initiate contact, it's best to speak to a potential therapist on the phone or via video call to get a feel for their personality and style. This can help you feel more confident going into that first appointment.

Try to remember therapy is a process, not an overnight fix.

If you walk out of your first appointment feeling the same, or even worse, don't be alarmed. It usually takes several sessions to develop a rapport with your therapist, and working through your thoughts and feelings takes time.

Sometimes, therapy may make you temporarily feel worse before you feel better, as you bring up difficult or traumatic emotions and experiences. Remember it's okay to set boundaries around topics you aren't ready to dive into yet. And it's okay to cry.

Trust the process and focus on the work at hand. You got this!

Hope is at the heart of therapy.

You can continue your wellness journey by finding a therapist you're interested in meeting with, and scheduling your first appointment.

Feel confident that you can feel better and live happier, and that by reaching out for support, you've taken a crucial step forward.

If you're still not sure whether therapy is the best option for you, consider taking our free therapy quiz.

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Ready to Talk? 6 Tips for Starting Therapy

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Therapy is designed to help you feel better and live better. Here are some tips to help you get started. Therapy, also known as psychotherapy, talk therapy, or counseling, aims to help you tackle troubling emotions, thoughts, behaviors or life situations. On a routine basis, therapy involves visiting with a mental health professional one-on-one, whether online or in person.

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We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.

Mental health apps are mobile apps designed to help users improve their emotional well-being, become more mindful, and address common mental health issues. Some mental health apps allow users to access online talk therapy or psychiatric care. Others may help you to begin a meditation practice, cope with stress and anxiety, or improve sleep quality. Available for iOS and/or Android users, mental health apps are typically designed to be used via smartphone or tablet.

The best mental health apps are affordable, user-friendly, and well-designed, with few technical glitches. Many of these apps have unique features that allow you to improve your overall wellness in enjoyable, accessible ways. High-quality therapy apps remove some of the usual barriers to mental health care, while mindfulness apps can help you achieve better focus and productivity. With so many available to choose from today, we sent our research team on a mission to find the best-of-the-best. Our team evaluated over 55 of the top mental health apps and ranked each according to whether or not the program was built on evidenced-based therapies, provided regular content updates, the variety of therapies offered, cost, and personal user reviews. Here are the mental health apps that ranked the highest.

10 Best Mental Health and Therapy Apps of 2023

Privacy

When choosing an online therapy provider, we recommend that you read the company's privacy guidelines before you sign up to better understand whether it is HIPAA-compliant and whether it shares any private information with third parties. There have been some concerns raised by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and several government officials about what user health information online therapy providers collect and what they do with any information they collect.

Best for Kids : Breathe, Think, Do with Sesame

Compare the Best Mental Health Apps

Company Price Platforms Free Trial

Guide to Choosing the Best Mental Health Apps

What Types of Mental Health Apps Are Offered?

There are a variety of types of mental health apps designed to address specific needs. These include:

Meditation: Many mental health apps focus on mindfulness techniques, such as guided meditation and grounding exercises. If you're not experienced in this area, look for apps with beginner-friendly meditation sessions.

Coping skills: Some mental health apps use games, activities, and online worksheets to help users develop important life skills, such as healthy ways to deal with stress and focus more intently while working or studying.

Addiction: Are you in recovery or trying to get sober? Sobriety apps can help you track your progress and celebrate milestones.

Anxiety and depression: If you have anxiety or depression, talk therapy with a licensed provider through a therapy app may help to treat your symptoms or supplement your in-person therapy.

Sleep problems: Many people use mental health apps to help with sleep issues, such as insomnia and nightmares. Features like sleepscapes, guided visual imagery, audio narration ("bedtime stories for grown-ups"), soothing music, and nature sounds may help you fall asleep more easily.

Comparing Mental Health Apps

There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing which mental health app is best for you. These factors include:

Price: If you're concerned about your budget, there are many free and low-cost mental health apps available. Many apps work on a monthly subscription-based model, but you can often cut costs by purchasing a discounted annual subscription. Look for an app with a free trial if you're not sure you want to commit to buying.

Topics discussed: Are you looking for help with mindfulness, stress relief, anxiety, or depression? Do you need online therapy or medication management services from a qualified professional? Each mental health app has different offerings.

Communication options: Some people benefit from live online therapy, such as live one-on-one video, audio, or chat sessions with a care provider. If you're more accustomed to communicating through text or writing, look for a therapy app that offers unlimited messaging or text-based therapy.

Features: Are you looking for an app that includes games and fun activities? What about meditation sessions, sleepscapes, and movement classes? Or are you looking specifically for online therapy that could replace in-person therapy? Look for an app that matches your needs and goals.

Who Should Use a Mental Health App?

Mental health apps can help you if you're dealing with a common mental health challenge, such as depression, stress, anxiety, or grief. Mental health apps can also help you deal with day-to-day problems like insomnia, lack of focus, and procrastination. Some mental health apps are designed to help people who have recently gotten sober or want to get sober.

You might especially benefit from using an online therapy app if you:

Live in a remote area

Need to find a more affordable form of therapy

Have a busy schedule

Feel more comfortable communicating via text

Have a disability that makes face-to-face therapy less accessible

However, mental health apps aren't for everyone. Mental health apps should generally not be used by people in active distress. A mental health app also might not be the best choice for you if you've been diagnosed with a severe mood disorder or schizophrenia or if you are experiencing psychosis.

What If I'm Having Thoughts of Harming Myself?

If you or someone you know is in extreme distress, having thoughts of self-harm, or thinking about harming someone else, seek emergency medical help by calling 911 or 988 from anywhere in the U.S.

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, here are some other resources that may help:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Mental Health Apps Be a Substitute for In-Person Therapy?

In some cases, a therapy app may be used as a substitute for in-person therapy. Some studies suggest that online talk therapy with an accredited therapist is just as effective as face-to-face therapy in treating conditions like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, mental health apps that don't provide direct therapy-such as mindfulness-based and stress relief apps-should not be used as a substitute for therapy. Instead, they are most effective when used as a supplement to counseling.

How Much Do Mental Health Apps Cost?

Some simple mental health apps, such as sobriety counter apps and apps that teach deep breathing techniques, are free to use. However, many apps offer a free basic version as well as a premium version with many additional features. A monthly subscription to a premium version of a mental health app often ranges from about $8.99 to $14.99 per month. For an app that offers talk therapy with a licensed therapist, typical subscription prices may range anywhere from $200 to $600 a month.

How Do Mental Health Apps Work?

Mental health apps vary greatly in terms of function, design, purpose, and features. There are six main types of mental health apps, each aimed at helping in a particular area of mental wellness. These areas include:

Social support and community

Tracking symptoms of a mental health condition

Life skills training

Self-care

Improving thinking patterns

Collecting data about mood and other aspects of mental health

Some mental health apps also offer online mental health care (such as talk therapy or psychiatric care) directly.

Are Mental Health Apps Effective?

Research suggests that mental health apps are effective in treating the symptoms of certain conditions. For example, one 2022 systematic review found that using Headspace improved symptoms among people with depression in 75% of studies. However, the research on mental health apps is ongoing, and findings are mixed. About 40% of studies found that Calm and Headspace could help with concerns like anxiety, sleep, and stress.

Methodology

To find the best mental health apps, our reviewers researched more than 50 apps for alleviating and managing mental health-related issues, including gathering and assessing internally collected user survey data. The apps were assessed based on whether they were developed via research-based programs and experts, were stable and regularly updated, offered live talk or text therapies, cost, the number of positive reviews on the Apple and Google Play app stores, cost, and any extra resources or activities offered.

Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

1. Caldeira C, Chen Y, Chan L, Pham V, Chen Y, Zheng K. Mobile apps for mood tracking: an analysis of features and user reviews. AMIA Annu Symp Proc. 2017;2017:495-504.

2. Greenwood H, Krzyzaniak N, Peiris R, et al. Telehealth versus face-to-face psychotherapy for less common mental health conditions: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. JMIR Ment Health. 2022;9(3):e31780. doi:10.2196/31780

3. Chandrashekar P. Do mental health mobile apps work: evidence and recommendations for designing high-efficacy mental health mobile apps. mHealth. 2018;4:6-6. doi:10.21037/mhealth.2018.03.02

4. O'Daffer A, Colt SF, Wasil AR, Lau N. Efficacy and conflicts of interest in randomized controlled trials evaluating headspace and calm apps: systematic review. JMIR Ment Health. 2022;9(9):e40924. doi:10.2196/40924

Edited by

April McCormick

April is the health editor for performance marketing at Verywell. Her work has appeared in Time, Parents Magazine, The Huffington Post, TripSavvy, Parenting.com, First Time Mom and Dad, Mama Mia, All4Women, the New York Times Bestseller, A Letter To My Mom, and more.

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Apps for mental health can help you overcome everyday hurdles such as stress, anxiety, depression, and more. Read on to learn about the best mental health and therapy apps and how they compare.

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Feeling anxious? Overwhelmed? Unhappy? Not sure what you're feeling at all? These might be signs that your "check engine" light is on and seeing a therapist could help.

If the mere thought of trying to find help seems overwhelming, you're not alone. Plenty of people put off seeking treatment or try to ignore symptoms because mental health is often easier to brush off as not urgent.

"We feel like there's a hierarchy of pain, and if our problem doesn't feel big enough, we wait until we're basically having the equivalent of an emotional heart attack before somebody will make that call," says Lori Gottlieb, a psychotherapist, advice columnist and author of the book Maybe You Should Talk to Someone.
Explore Life Kit
On top of that, the process of researching and scheduling that first appointment can be an emotional burden on its own - but procrastinating often allows the problem to grow. If you wait until things get really bad, the harder it will be to address.

We've got four tips to help you make therapy work for you. Be sure to listen to the Life Kit episode " How To Start Therapy" for more advice from experts who know that this is more than just making a phone call. If it were that easy, you'd have done it already!

1. Acknowledge stigmas that might be holding you back from seeking help.

The fear of being stigmatized can keep us from seeking treatment. Our attitudes about mental health likely come from family, friends, society at large, the media - and even our own inner voices.

"I think that a lot of people feel like if they start therapy, that means something's wrong with them and other people might look at them differently," says Gottlieb.

The reality is that people close to us often notice when we're having a hard time. In fact, they're likely catching some negative side effects, since we tend to take things out on our loved ones. Remember, you're doing this for them too.

A good first step is to reframe therapy for yourself. "I think of seeing a therapist as just getting a second opinion about what you're doing," says Pahoua Yang, vice president of community mental health and wellness at the Amherst H. Wilder Foundation. "And then you can decide from there."

If you're concerned about privacy or disclosure, therapy is confidential. No one has to know! Licensed mental health professionals are bound by the law to protect your privacy. Unless someone is a threat to themselves or others, what goes on in therapy stays in therapy.

2. Find the right therapist - or type of therapy - for you.

Start by making a list of potential therapists. If you have medical coverage, your insurance company can help make that list for you. Ask the company for some nearby professionals who take your insurance.

Psychology Today also has a database, which you can use to search for providers in your area, along with specialties, reviews and experience.

Once you've identified a few potential therapists, reach out. Come up with some starter questions to ask when you interview them over the phone. What experience do they have working with your issue or community? How does a typical session with them work? Do their available hours match yours?

Asking questions before a visit can help you know what to expect. But Gottlieb says the visit itself is the most important piece. "The reality is, you're not gonna know if it's the right fit until you're sitting in a room with that person," says Gottlieb.

If transportation, access or motivation is a problem, online therapy like the app BetterHelp might be helpful. (BetterHelp is a sponsor of NPR.) You can also ask to do Skype sessions, but make sure the therapist is licensed in your state. Otherwise, the therapist can't legally treat you.

Not insured? Or on a tight budget? Look up a local clinic at a hospital or university where you can get low- to no-cost therapy with a therapist in training.

That's actually how Gottlieb got her start as a therapist. "I trained at a clinic where people came in for no fee or a very low fee," she says. "I was supervised by licensed clinicians. That's also a great way to get help."

Don't feel ashamed or shorted by the idea of low-cost therapy. Gottlieb says clinic sessions actually have an advantage over pricier options.

"In fact, you probably have more supervision than a private-practice clinician does, because when you're training, you have several sessions a week of supervision, so your case gets a lot of attention when you're in a clinic."

Group therapy can also be a great low-cost option. Group sessions tend to be relatively affordable compared with one-on-one sessions - sometimes even free.

Open Path Collective offers a network of therapists who charge $30 to $60 a session. And some professionals price their sessions on a sliding scale fee, meaning their rates vary based on a customer's ability to pay. If you can't afford your preferred professional's rates, it's worth asking if sliding scale payments are an option at the therapist's practice.

3. It's OK to move on to a different therapist, or kind of therapy, altogether.

If your current therapist doesn't feel like a good fit, it's fine to "break up" with the person.

"You want to make sure you find somebody who actually feels like they get you," says Joy Harden Bradford, Ph.D., host of the podcast Therapy for Black Girls. "It's OK to say, 'Hey, I think I may need something else' and to try to find another therapist who's going to be a better fit for you."

But after all that work of getting into therapy, it might feel daunting to dump someone and start over.

Harden Bradford understands. She says it's important to push through that uncomfortable conversation and find something that works for you. Plus, she says, the therapist likely isn't going to be mad at you.

"It is a part of our training, and we know that kind of thing happens," she says.

Mental health professionals want you to get better, even if it's not in their care. Your current therapist might even be able to help identify a colleague who would fit better.

4. If you're comfortable with it, talk about therapy with others.

If you're already in therapy, and you feel comfortable, be open about it.

John Kim, also known as The Angry Therapist, says he found an online following when he opened up about his divorce and his own mental health treatment.

"I would share ... all the revelations I'm having about myself," says Kim. "And how much that's helping my relationships at work, at home ... and all of that happened because of me starting therapy."

Kim says he wishes more people were open about going to therapy. He wants to see it normalized and encourages working it into conversation.

Just keep it subtle. No need to share details. Simply let others know that you're prioritizing your mental health.

But Kim says it's important to remember that if you're sharing because you think someone else needs mental health support, it's best to show, not tell.

"The best way to get someone in therapy is by example ... doing therapy and living a different way where they notice. To tell someone to go to therapy, that's not gonna land well."

Breaking down a stigma takes time. By talking openly about therapy and demonstrating its benefits, you just may inspire someone else to try it out.

Editor's note: In the original version of this story, we failed to mention that BetterHelp is an NPR sponsor. A full list of Life Kit sponsors is available here.
The audio portion of this story was produced by Audrey Nguyen.

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subscribe to Life Kit podcast subscribe to Life Kit podcast Feeling anxious? Overwhelmed? Unhappy? Not sure what you're feeling at all? These might be signs that your "check engine" light is on and seeing a therapist could help. If the mere thought of trying to find help seems overwhelming, you're not alone.

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Crisis Text Line | Text HOME To 741741 free, 24/7 Crisis Counseling

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Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. We're here for everything: anxiety, depression, suicide, school. Text HOME to 741741.

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Talkspace is the most convenient and affordable way to improve your mental health. Get matched with a licensed therapist in your state from the comfort of your device, and message via text, audio, and video.

Our subscription service provides high-quality mental health care to anyone ages 13 and up, and has already been used by over 1 million people. See what they have to say at love.talkspace.com.

HOW DOES TALKSPACE WORK?

Tell us your preferences for therapy, and match with one of our therapists in your state the same day. Send your therapist unlimited text, audio, picture, or video messages from anywhere, at any time - you'll hear back at least once a day, 5 days per week.

IS TALKSPACE COVERED BY INSURANCE?

Yes! Talkspace partners with health plans and companies across the U.S. to make therapy more affordable and accessible than ever before. Share your insurance info or employer during checkout to see if you're eligible for coverage.

IS TALKSPACE EFFECTIVE?

Talkspace has been shown to be as effective as face-to-face therapy. In one recent study, 81% of participants felt Talkspace is as effective or better than in-person therapy. In another, individuals who used Talkspace for only 2 months significantly improved symptoms of depression and anxiety. Talkspace has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, CNN.com, Business Insider, and more.

For more research data, visit research.talkspace.com.
For more of our press coverage, visit talkspace.com/online-therapy/press/

WHO ARE THE TALKSPACE THERAPISTS?

The Talkspace provider network has thousands of licensed therapists across the 50 U.S. states who have been vetted and accredited according to NCQA standards. They have experience treating the most common mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, substance use, stress, relationships, PTSD, and more.

IS TALKSPACE SECURE?

Your safety and security are our #1 priorities. Our technology is protected using banking-grade encryption and externally audited in compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). For more information, find our complete Privacy Policy at talkspace.com/public/privacy-policy.

CONNECT WITH US!

We're always happy to connect with users and receive feedback.
Email us: support@talkspace.com
Check out our website: talkspace.com
Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/Talkspace
Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/talkspace
Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/Talkspacetherapy

Version 8.92.35

This release improves performance on certain devices and fixes several bugs. If you have questions, email us at support@talkspace.com.

Great concept but needs Improvement

I never review apps in the App Store but since this is an important app that does provide a vital service to people I thought I'd write in my experience with it so far.

I've been using Talkspace for almost a month now and I understand that the therapists on here also have their actual practice with in-person clients as well and I respect that they can respond to my messages whenever they get the chance but my first therapist would respond to me maybe a couple times a week at most so I ended up changing therapists and that was mildly annoying having to go through the reintroduction process with the new therapist all over again and explain what my problems/issues are and while she has been more responsive, I have had issues where my therapist and I would try to schedule my monthly live session and she never called/initiated the session at the agreed upon time. I think there needs to be a way for the client to be able to try and initiate the live session at the agreed upon time or also have there be a way to kind of send over the messages to the new therapist when you try to switch therapists so you don't have to start all over and spend your and hour new therapists time going over everything again.

I wasn't so sure about this

I am glad I gave Talk Space a try. It has become a vital part in my healing and rediscovery of self. Yes there is nothing compared to an in person human connection but this is a great alternative for those looking to save a little money and on a busy schedule. I can always find some time to send a quick "text" message or voice audio while I am at work or walking my dog. I like the options for voice messaging, text, pics and videos. I like sending my therapist photos of real people and things in my life (something I never did with an in person therapist).

I did have some trouble when I first got the app. My first therapist was very non-responsive but Talk Space was aware and offered me the option to switch therapists so I did. Then I chose someone who told me up front she didn't work with certain traumas and I had to switch again but that felt necessary. I finally landed on an amazing psychologist who is very responsive even on weeks when I don't send anything she will kindly check in and let me know she is available.

This app works great for me and my lifestyle and needs. You get about ten mins of talk time a day with your therapist about 5 times a week to equal the same time as a weekly therapy session. In the heavy unloading it didn't feel like enough but now that I am more stable and my therapist is updated on my basics it feels perfect.

All this for one reply a day?

The app isn't terrible, it checks up on you, you can send voice messages, photos, and you can message your therapist any time. But I literally get ONE response a day. It used to be more in the beginning, when I stated that was a concern of mine, then when I re-upped for another 3 months, the therapist started responding much slower. Now even on their "days working" I won't get a response. They really didn't respond to me for 48 hours on their days working. I'll have to ask if everything's okay with them, since I don't want to be rude, but they just don't get the hint. How am I supposed to get help when I tell them something and they reply to it a day later? The constant, or rather 12+ messages it was in the beginning, was super helpful. Now I won't be starting up again because I'm not paying all this money to not have a consistent talk. At this point, I should pay my friends because they're doing a better job than my therapist. Only giving 2 stars because the app itself is easy to use and checks how you're doing often, so it's nice that they want you to progress.

EDIT- the company reached out to me to make it right. They offered a discount, or some money back. I bumped them up to 3 stars from the original 2 that I gave because a company that's willing to return money or work with you is worth giving a try. It just didn't work too well for me but hopefully it does for others

Hi there, thank you for writing this detailed review of your experience. We are happy to hear that you are enjoying the app but very sorry to hear that your therapist has not been so responsive. We can understand your frustration and our team would be happy to look into this further for you. Generally your therapist should be responding daily 5 days a week with thoughtful responses, we are sorry to hear that this is not the case. Please send us an email at Feedback@Talkspace.com, someone from our team is eager to help.

The developer, Groop Internet Platform inc., indicated that the app's privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer's privacy policy.

Data Linked to You

The following data may be collected and linked to your identity:

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

Seller

Groop Internet Platform inc.

Compatibility

iPhone

Requires iOS 13.0 or later.

iPad

Requires iPadOS 13.0 or later.

iPod touch

Requires iOS 13.0 or later.

Age Rating

12+ Infrequent/Mild Alcohol, Tobacco, or Drug Use or References Infrequent/Mild Mature/Suggestive Themes Infrequent/Mild Medical/Treatment Information

Family Sharing

With Family Sharing set up, up to six family members can use this app.

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‎Talkspace is the most convenient and affordable way to improve your mental health. Get matched with a licensed therapist in your state from the comfort of your device, and message via text, audio, and video. Our subscription service provides high-quality mental health care to anyone ages 13 and up...

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Therapist Finder is an easy-to use, quick, and convenient way to find a therapist near you.

This handy app quickly identifies your location and lets you choose the nearest Psychologist, Psychiatrist, Marriage & Family Therapist, Life Coach, Clinical Social Worker, and more!

When you select a listing, you can see the therapist's location on the map, his or her address, telephone number, and the distance from where you are. You can also call the therapist directly by tapping on the phone icon on your iPhone.

Legal Disclaimer: Please note that this application provides the information content on an 'as is' and 'as available' basis. No warranty is expressed or implied that the search results of this application are 100% accurate or up-to-date. In no event shall the creator of this application be liable in any manner for any direct, incidental, consequential, indirect or punitive damages arising out of your access, use or inability to use this application, or any errors or omissions in the information on this application. The creator of this application reserves the right at any time and from time to time to add, change, modify, update, or discontinue, temporarily or permanently, this application (or any part thereof) with or without notice. The creator of this application shall not be liable to you or to any third party for any addition, modification, suspension or discontinuance of this application.

If you have an iPod touch, keep in mind that it does not have a built-in GPS; therefore, it cannot locate your position accurately.

Version 2.0.1

This app has been updated by Apple to use the latest Apple signing certificate.

User Interface improvements
Minor bug fix

Nope

The app is challenging to use because you have to close out of it and reopen to change search locations. Search results were inaccurate in several categories. For example: limousine company under life coach.

Time Saver!!

Very helpful app, easy to use. Gives a variety of different therapy options to choose from then you select one and it brings up a list of all of those in your area. What surprised me is how this app gave me many more options in my area than google, in fact at least half of the places on the list were ones I never knew were there. That is surprising bcuz I have spent countless hours on the Internet searching for a specific type of therapy in my area and have never seen many times of these. I wish I knew of this app before I wasted so much time searching on my own:)

Pretty good, could do with tweaking

This app does a decent enough job. My biggest gripe is the limitations of the search engine. For example: there is no search criteria for LGPC's or Pastoral counselors (an important criteria for clients seeking a faith-based approach). I would also like to be able to specify the distance a client is willing to travel to see someone.

The developer, Michael Quach, has not provided details about its privacy practices and handling of data to Apple.

No Details Provided

The developer will be required to provide privacy details when they submit their next app update.

Information

Compatibility

iPhone

Requires iOS 8.0 or later.

iPad

Requires iPadOS 8.0 or later.

iPod touch

Requires iOS 8.0 or later.

Mac

Requires macOS 11.0 or later and a Mac with Apple M1 chip.

Age Rating

12+ Infrequent/Mild Alcohol, Tobacco, or Drug Use or References Infrequent/Mild Mature/Suggestive Themes

Family Sharing

With Family Sharing set up, up to six family members can use this app.

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‎Therapist, Psychologist and Psychiatrist Finder

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‎Therapist Finder is an easy-to use, quick, and convenient way to find a therapist near you. This handy app quickly identifies your location and lets you choose the nearest Psychologist, Psychiatrist, Marriage & Family Therapist, Life Coach, Clinical Social Worker, and more! When you select a listi...

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Mental health answers from counselors - CounselChat

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Find therapists and counselors near you. Search for providers by specialty, such as relationship counseling, anxiety, self-esteem, and depression.

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Hi. I'm Carolyn. I'm the editor in chief of SELF and the host of our brand new wellness advice podcast, Checking In. In our most recent episode, we're talking all about how to find the right therapist for you.

In today's episode, a listener named Ecaroh calls in to tell us that, as a Black woman, she's having a tough time finding a therapist who she feels comfortable with. Ecaroh is from a small Texas town and didn't grow up thinking much about therapy. That changed when she went to college. "I started struggling a little bit, especially since I went to a primarily white institution," Ecaroh says. "I felt pretty isolated. And eventually, I decided, I need to do something about this."

Ecaroh wanted to explore her feelings with a therapist-and a lot of what she wanted to discuss involved the nuances of her life as a Black woman. "That's something that's hard to talk about with people who don't understand that experience directly," Ecaroh says. Her preference was to find a Black therapist to talk to-but living in her small Texas town, she couldn't find a Black therapist to see. So she didn't know what to do next, or how to find the right therapist for her-someone who she could feel comfortable with.

New episodes of Checking In come out every Monday. Listen to this week's episode above, and get more episodes of Checking In on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Finding the right therapist can be hard for anyone. The therapist search often demands a lot of time, effort, and money, no matter who you are. But if you're looking for a therapist who shares core parts of your identity or really understands your experiences, that search can become even harder. So for this week's episode of Checking In, I talk to a couple of people who can help Ecaroh-and other listeners in the same situation-find the help they deserve.

To start, I talk to SELF's executive editor, Zahra Barnes. Zahra and I have worked together for five years, but podcasting together was a fun first for us. In those five years, Zahra has written and edited plenty of stories covering the ins and outs of mental health in general, and also the specific nuances that come with mental health care and access for Black people, in particular. In June, as Black Lives Matter protests ramped up after the tragic deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and many other Black people, Zahra wrote the piece 44 Mental Health Resources for Black People Trying to Survive in This Country. It's full of resources Black people can turn to for support, from Instagram accounts destigmatizing mental health to virtual wellness clubs to Black therapist directories. The piece got an outpouring of appreciation from Black readers who found it valuable; I knew I had to talk to Zahra for this episode.

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How to Find the Right Therapist for You, Once and For All

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Hi. I'm Carolyn. I'm the editor in chief of SELF and the host of our brand new wellness advice podcast, Checking In . In our most recent episode, we're talking all about how to find the right therapist for you.

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How to find the BEST Therapist for you | Therapy Works

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How to Find a Good Therapist | Tips and Advice

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choosing therapy: a guide to getting what you need

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Choosing Therapy: A Guide to Getting What You Need

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Choosing Therapy: A Guide to Getting What You Need [Romanovsky, Ilyana] on Amazon.com. *FREE* shipping on qualifying offers. Choosing Therapy: A Guide to Getting What You Need

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find your therapy: a practical guide to finding quality therapy

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Find Your Therapy: A Practical Guide to Finding Quality Therapy

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Find Your Therapy: A Practical Guide to Finding Quality Therapy [Wignall, Nick] on Amazon.com. *FREE* shipping on qualifying offers. Find Your Therapy: A Practical Guide to Finding Quality Therapy

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From Nicole Arzt, licensed marriage and family therapist and founder of Psychotherapy Memes - a global community of more than 80,000 followers - comes a dynamic approach to understanding the therapist career.
Sometimes therapy is awkward. And sometimes it's also painful, messy, and downright confusing. Yet, very few books capture what it's truly like to engage in this work.

In its much-anticipated release, this guide chronicles the strange nuances of working in mental health in the modern world. Sometimes Therapy Is Awkward provides refreshingly candid insight into what it takes to feel more confident and prepared to help others. This guide offers stories, jokes, and action-based solutions for:

Coping with excruciating insecurities

Improving clinical skills

Navigating the workplace

Setting healthy and effective boundaries

Managing burnout and compassion fatigue

Understanding mental health treatment in the modern world

Using introspection and humor, Arzt offers a practical road map for aspiring therapists, new therapists, and any therapist who identifies with feeling afraid or uncomfortable in their work.

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Check out this great listen on Audible.com. From Nicole Arzt, licensed marriage and family therapist and founder of Psychotherapy Memes - a global community of more than 80,000 followers - comes a dynamic approach to understanding the therapist career. Sometimes therapy is awkward. And sometimes i...

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How to Find a Therapist: The Secret Guide to Working Your Shit Out with the Mental Health Professional of Your Dreams (5-Minute Therapy)

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This book is not just about finding a good therapist. It is about finding a great therapist. The kind of person who will inspire you, challenge you, and change your life. The kind of person who will help you make real progress.

If you are just looking for someone to talk to, this book is not for you. Throw a rock and you will find a mediocre counselor who will gladly take your money, go through the motions of "listening" to you for an hour, week after week, and never encourage you to change. And maybe you don't want to change. That's fine. Just check out another book, because this one will only stress you out.

However, if you want to thrive rather than survive, use this book to demystify the often muddled field of psychology.

You will learn:

How to identify an awesome therapist.

How to know if you've found a bad one.

What to expect from therapy.

How to trust yourself.

And how to improve your odds of permanent growth.

The author takes her years of "couch surfing," during which she saw over twenty therapists and coaches, to simplify the process and help you make life changes efficiently and with the support you need.

This short book is jam-packed, full of principles that you can use to feel confident about an often confusing and stressful transition in your life. Make the choice to change your life and find a great therapist.

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how to find a great therapist: from surviving to thriving

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How to Find a Great Therapist: From Surviving to Thriving

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How to Find a Great Therapist: From Surviving to Thriving - Kindle edition by Beal, Kathryn. Download it once and read it on your Kindle device, PC, phones or tablets. Use features like bookmarks, note taking and highlighting while reading How to Find a Great Therapist: From Surviving to Thriving.

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Life gets hard, and sometimes it can feel overwhelming, lonely, or even pointless. But there's someone who can help when it feels like things are falling apart: a therapist.

Whether it's for depression, for anxiety, or just for the usual set of problems with family, work, relationships, internal struggles, and everything else, finding a therapist can help. But how do you find the right therapist for you?

If you've never been to therapy before, or even if you have, it can seem overwhelming to find a counselor that suits your needs when you're already struggling. What's the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist? Are PhDs, PsyDs, and MDs that different? How do I find a therapist near me? How do I find a therapist that takes my insurance?

First things first, though. Take a deep breath in, and then out, and now let's break down how to find the right therapist for you.

How to find a good therapist

Finding a qualified therapist is easy. Finding the right therapist might take a little time.

Remember, you're the customer, and you can shop around. If it's not a match, that's not a reflection on you. But a little research up front can make all the difference.

Why should I go to therapy?

Therapy can be useful to just about anyone. We often think that therapy is reserved for those with serious mental health issues, but that's simply not true.

You may want to find a therapist to help you cope with a mental illness like depression or an anxiety disorder, but a therapist can also be helpful during a break-up, a stressful time at work, or even just to help you navigate your goals.

Plus, seeing a therapist when things are "not that bad" can help prepare us for when life gets a little tough. In that way, therapy can often act as a type of preventative healthcare.

Research indicates that chronic stress can lead to the development of heart disease, and more than 75% of all physician office visits are due to stress-related ailments. Therapy can provide the tools needed to manage and alleviate some of this stress.

Once you know what you want to work on, it's time to find someone who specializes in that area. There are as many types of therapists as there are reasons to go to therapy. Here is a breakdown of some of the common types of licensed therapists and counselors you'll see when finding the best therapist for you:

Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MD or DO), who focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Psychiatrists are trained and qualified to assess both the mental and physical sides of psychological problems. They are also able to prescribe medication to their patients - this is one of the key differences between psychiatrists and psychologists.

Psychologist

A clinical psychologist will usually have either a PhD or a PsyD. They are trained in understanding the mind, behavior, and how the two correspond. One of the primary types of therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), is a cornerstone of the psychology practice. This type of "talk therapy" helps the psychologist investigate how their client may relate to the world, and how they can change that relationship for the better. A psychologist cannot prescribe medication, but they can refer patients to a psychiatrist who can.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

You may see clinical social workers referred to a LCSWs. These social workers have a Master's degree in social work and have been supervised for 3,000 hours of training. Many licensed clinical social workers can be found in community agencies, but there are some with private practices. While their specialty is part of the broader field of social work, licensed clinical social workers can help clients through issues with emotional and mental health in many areas.

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Also called LMFTs, these types of therapists will examine and understand your behavior through the lens of social and relational contexts, as per their educational backgrounds and professional training. They have a master's degree in either counseling or marriage and family therapy, and must pass their licensing exam in the state they practice in.

Licensed Professional Counselor or Licensed Mental Health Counselor

An LPC or LMHC has a minimum education requirement of a Master's in Counseling, along with a great deal of training and state certification. Like LCSWs, psychologists, and psychiatrists, they are mental health professionals trained to help people understand their mental state and how to cope with mental and emotional problems.

When choosing a psychotherapist, remember that schooling and degrees don't always dictate who will be the right choice. You want to have a supported and open relationship with your therapist, and many talented counselors choose different paths. Keep an open mind, as your relationship with that person and the areas they specialize in will make all the difference.

Where to find the right therapist for me

1) Ask friends and family.

Bristling at the idea of asking friends and family for a therapist recommendation is normal, but maybe there are a few people in your life that you would feel comfortable asking. If they recommend their own therapist and that makes you uncomfortable, remember that you can always contact that practitioner for advice on who else they would recommend.

2) Call your insurance company.

Most insurance providers can provide you with a list of practitioners. You can even ask them to search for a type of therapist within a distance range of your home or place of work. With that list, you can simply look them up. Most therapists have websites that you can review on your own to see if they feel like a match, or if they have experience in the areas important to you.

3) Search online.

The internet has opened up many possibilities for finding a therapist. Looking for web-based therapy, text therapy, and other digital mental health resources is now an accessible option. You can even work with us. At Two Chairs, we take most of the stress of choosing a therapist out of the equation: you start with a simple consult before we match you with one a therapist best suited to your needs, goals, and preferences for care.

4) Reach out to a local university.

Universities not only have many practicing mental health counselors on staff, but also many students at various levels of training. Remember that time practicing does not always equal better therapy - it's about who you connect with and feel comfortable with.

5) Use a therapy database.

You can find databases of therapists on Psych Central, Psychology Today, and more. Sort by location, gender, issue, type of therapy, etc., and you can review profiles to see who might be a good match.

6) Make use of the network.

If you try all the resources above and you find some therapists and counselors who maybe aren't the perfect fit because they don't take your insurance or are far away, you can always ask those people for recommendations. They may know practitioners that fit the magical bill of "near me" and "takes my insurance."

I found a therapist I like. Now what?

Reach out! Contact their office by phone or email to schedule a phone consultation. Or, if you've found a therapist through an online service like ours, follow the steps provided.

This is the best time to ask questions about payment, frequency of visits, if their office takes your insurance plan, their training, and talk generally about what you'd like to work on and how they would consider treating you.

We have several helpful blog posts about navigating insurance, written by our Care Coordination team.

Above all else, this is the time to get a feel for how you and the therapist would work together. Are they a good listener? Do you feel comfortable talking to them? Do you feel heard? You can ask them questions about their education, their experience dealing with issues similar to yours, and your goals for therapy. You should leave the conversation with a good feeling. Do not feel pressured to see a therapist you do not feel great about just because you had a phone consultation.

If you have financial concerns, some therapists will work on a sliding rate scale, or they may be able to recommend you to someone who can work within your constraints.

There is also a chance that the therapist you've chosen is not seeing new clients, so don't be afraid to tell them why you chose them and see if they can recommend someone similar. It's likely there are others in their practice or network that they can refer you to.

No matter what, therapy is a service. If for any reason you do not feel like the therapist you've chosen is right for you, you can discontinue seeing them. Any therapist who pressures you to stay with their practice is likely not acting in your best interest. You can be open with therapists on phone consultations and in person that you're looking for the right fit. Good therapists will understand.

If your first call or visit isn't a match, don't feel discouraged. Keep reaching out, and you'll find the right therapist to help you.

Next steps

You have all the tools to start your search. To find the right therapist, you just need to do a little research.

Set aside some time for yourself to create a list of therapists who might be a match. We all have different parameters for what's most important, and that's OK. Maybe your top priority is someone who is near you, or maybe it's more important that they have experience with a particular issue you're dealing with.

No matter how you make your list, the next step is phone consultations. This is the time to ask questions, share your goals, and set up a plan.

There are many, many great therapists, and no matter which part of the alphabet soup they represent, the most important thing is feeling supported and heard in your therapy sessions. Making that first appointment can be a crucial step toward a happier and healthier life.

‍

If you or someone you know is seeking mental health care, you can reach out to our Care Coordination team at If you or someone you know is experiencing an emergency or crisis and needs immediate help, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Additional resources can be found support@twochairs.com or by phone at 415.202.5159.

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How to Find a Therapist You Connect With | Two Chairs Blog

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Life gets hard, and sometimes it can feel overwhelming, lonely, or even pointless. But there's someone who can help when it feels like things are falling apart: a therapist. Whether it's for depression, for anxiety, or just for the usual set of problems with family, work, relationships, internal struggles, and everything else, finding a therapist can help.

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So you're thinking of starting therapy. That's great, but where do you start? Finding a therapist can be intimidating, but there are plenty of resources out there to help you.

Ask around

Ask your friends and family who are in therapy if they can recommend someone. If they like their therapist, there is a chance you will too. It can be comforting to know someone you trust has already had a good experience with them. Just make sure that they fit into your health insurance plan if you have one, or have a sliding scale (you pay less if you make less money) if you don't.

You can also ask your doctor for a referral to a therapist. They might know someone who specializes in the type of therapy you need. And there's a good chance that they will recommend someone who is covered by the same health insurance. Doctors also often know about assistance programs that can help you pay for therapy-especially if were hospitalized.

Searching online

If you have health insurance, your insurance provider can help you find a therapist. Many insurance companies' websites have online search tools, or you can call the number on the back of your insurance card for help.

Search engines like HelpPro or Psychology Today 's therapist finder take things a step further. You can filter your search results by gender, sexuality, faith, areas of expertise, and more. Each provider has their own profile where you can read more about them and their practice. Look for key words and issues that you identify with.

There are a few websites where people can leave reviews of their therapists. It never hurts to get more information about a potential therapist-just remember to take these reviews with a grain of salt. People can have a bad experience with a great therapist if they're not a good fit. The number of starts isn't as important as the reasons the reviewer gives for liking or disliking the therapist.

Other places to look

If you are student, your school might have a counseling center on campus. They can help you through the whole process.

There are also apps for online therapy, like BetterHelp or TalkSpace. Some insurance plans or employers will cover the subscription fee.

Making an appointment

After making a list of three to five potential therapists, start making some phone calls. (Some therapists will have a way for you to make an appointment online.) Let the receptionist know you are a new client and make sure they are covered under your insurance. (The insurance information you find online isn't always up-to-date!) Sometimes they'll send you paperwork to fill out before the appointment. Some therapists will even do a consultation over the phone to make sure it's a good fit.

If they offer to put you on a waitlist, say yes. Even if you end up finding someone else who can see you right away, it can't hurt to have a backup plan.

While you wait...

In the meantime, you can use short-term mental health resources to tide you over. If you're in crisis, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK, or text "MHA" to 741-741 to talk to a trained counselor from Crisis Text Line. Look through our list of DIY tools for other resources ( such as apps) you can use to stay mentally healthy while you wait. Ask your employer if you have access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), where you can get short-term counseling.

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How do I find a therapist? | MHA Screening

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So you're thinking of starting therapy. That's great, but where do you start? Finding a therapist can be intimidating, but there are plenty of resources out there to help you. Ask around Ask your friends and family who are in therapy if they can recommend someone.

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The summer before I turned 28, I felt like I was swimming through a hot, sour fog. I was exhausted all the time, but I also couldn't sleep, and sometimes I'd wake up in the middle of the night and cry. My eating habits got weird. I started second-guessing everything I did at work. There was no objective "crisis" - my job, friends, relationship, and family were all fine, in general - which made me even more anxious about what was wrong with me (but seriously, what was wrong with me?!). Finally, after a few months of this, I decided to figure out how to find a therapist.

Here, I had a big advantage: my best friend from high school happens to be a clinical social worker, and she helped me pinpoint the type of approach I wanted (a mix of different backgrounds, but not too woo-woo) and sift through contenders online. I made a list and started emailing possible candidates.

My "shopping" period was blessedly brief, but eye-opening as far as red flags go. The first person I saw quickly suggested that maybe I was dissatisfied with my life because - no joke - I wanted "more simple things, like to get married and have children." (Not exactly a psychological diagnosis.) Onto therapist number two, who seemed thoughtful and kind ... until she nodded off about 30 minutes in. (I know that boring your shrink to sleep is a thing, but really - our first session?)

Losing steam but spurred on by my therapist friend, I trudged to appointment number three. The woman who opened the door was warm, insightful, and reassuring. I liked her voice and her demeanor. I couldn't quite describe why, but after I saw her, I felt clearer and calmer. A few sessions later, I found myself repeating things she'd said to me in conversations with other people. I continued to see her on and off for years.

Not everyone is lucky enough to have a good friend to guide them through the process of starting therapy, but with the right information, you'll be well-equipped to do it on your own. Yes, it'll take time and effort, which may be in short supply when you're wading through piles of whatever life has dumped at your feet. But ironically, the more daunting the process may seem, the more you may benefit from the results. Here's what you need to know before you start, even if you're a total beginner.
1. When should you go to therapy in the first place?
People often think you need to be in the middle of a true "emergency" to seek therapy - the big stuff like a breakup or divorce, the death or illness of a loved one, a job loss, addiction issues, etc. But really, therapy can be appropriate at any time, provided you want to be there. "If you're thinking, 'Maybe I should try therapy,' then it's a good time to go to therapy," says Satya Doyle Byock, a licensed psychotherapist and owner of Quarter-Life Counseling in Portland, Oregon. "The longer you put that off, the more complicated the process becomes."

Ironically, the more daunting the process may seem, the more you may benefit from the results.

Another common time to seek therapy is during a big life change, like if you're moving to a new city, graduating from college, starting a new job, or becoming a parent. "There are lots of transitional, non-crisis moments when people still need support," says Robin Tovell-Toubal, a licensed mental health counselor based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. "We also see a lot of people coming to sessions with a more general feeling that something's not right, and they want to explore different areas of dissatisfaction with where they are versus where they think they should be." (Which basically sums up 27-year-old me.)
2. What types of therapy are typically practiced, and how do you know what might work best for you?
There are many different camps in the therapy world, and yet more subsets within them. (You can find a comprehensive list of these different types - also known as modalities - on Psychology Today's website, with accompanying descriptions, as well as a shorter guide to the most common ones here.) Many therapists are also trained in multiple methods, while others are highly specialized; it's important to ask your therapist about their modality of choice, and whether they think it will be helpful to you, before you make your first appointment.

Two of the most popular types of therapy are cognitive-behavioral therapy (or CBT) and psychodynamic therapy (or PDT). Here's a very quick run-down.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy, or CBT, focuses on identifying unhealthy behavior patterns (say, compulsive shopping) and the negative, unrealistic thoughts that drive them ("If I don't have these nice clothes, people won't like or respect me"). Then the therapist will work with the patient to replace those misleading thoughts with more accurate ones ("Actually, people will like me just as much if I don't buy these clothes"), thereby leading to better coping mechanisms. The therapist might assign worksheets or other homework so that you can monitor your thought and behavior patterns on your own.

Boatloads of research has shown that CBT can be highly effective in treating everything from PTSD to more generalized anxiety, but critics say that it doesn't always get at the underlying causes of those symptoms - which may, in some cases, lead to symptoms returning over time.

If your issues are more vague and/or deep-seated, then you may want to consider a psychodynamic approach. This is closer to what many people think of when they envision traditional therapy: It involves delving more into your past, including your upbringing and family relationships, to help you understand and resolve old conflicts so that you don't project them onto the present. Research has shown PDT to be most effective in treating depression, some anxiety disorders, eating disorders and somatic disorders (when physical symptoms, like stomach aches, which are due to psychological stress rather than physiological illness). The treatment will require patience, a lot of talking, and a willingness to deal with a less structured and more exploratory process.
3. Where should you even start to look for the right therapist?
Many of my friends have found their therapists through other friends' referrals, which certainly isn't a bad place to start. (In fact, one of my best friends now sees my old therapist.) But you should also be sensitive to whether your friend is comfortable sharing her therapist with you. Also, some therapists have personal policies against seeing people who are close to one another. In either of those cases, you could ask that the therapist to refer you to a colleague. "Therapists often have great networks in their area, and can guide you to someone with a similar approach if they aren't able to see you themselves," says Tovell-Toubal.

Alternatively, there's the internet. Depending on where you live, you can probably find a local mental health organization that lists licensed practitioners in the area, says Byock. If you're hoping to be covered by insurance, you can also search within your insurance plan's database. Byock recommends cross-checking the names you find in multiple directories (or just straight-up googling the therapists' name), in case they have a personal website or other profile with more information. But be aware that many therapists don't have a big online footprint. "A lot of therapists actually don't have that much of an internet presence," says Byock. "That doesn't mean that they're bad therapists. In fact, it might mean they're good therapists who are so booked that they don't have time to market themselves."

The best way to find out is to get in touch with them yourself. Aim for a list of about five potential therapists to start, says Tovell-Toubal. "Hopefully, you'll find what you're looking for before you get to the fifth one."
4. What's the deal with insurance?
Unfortunately, many therapists don't take insurance directly. (In insurance terms, they're "out-of-network.") But it's possible to get your insurance to cover at least part of the cost, depending on your plan. "It's very difficult for therapists to bill insurance companies these days, so a lot of them will give you a receipt that you can then pass on to your insurance company and try and get reimbursed yourself," says Tovell-Toubal.

The reimbursement process is annoying to figure out (I've been there), but pretty easy to maintain once you know the process. The best way to muddle through is to set aside some time, pick up the phone, and call the number on the back of your insurance card. Ask to be referred to someone who can answer questions about mental health benefits (some insurance companies have special representatives just for that). You'll have to listen to hold muzak, but once you get a human on the line, ask what kind of coverage they provide. If they will reimburse a portion of your therapy bills (or all of them, if you've got a really great plan), the next steps are pretty easy: You just mail off your therapy receipts every month with a special insurance form, and you'll get a check back in the mail once the paperwork is processed.

Be aware, however, that you will have to get a clinical diagnosis from your therapist in order for insurance to cover treatment. "If you want to use your health insurance, the therapist has to document the diagnosis in a medical record and in the billing system that your insurance company uses to process claims," explains Tovell-Toubal. You'll probably receive this diagnosis after the first or second session, and ideally, your therapist will discuss it with you (you should also feel free to ask). If you are seeking treatment for a very specific disorder, such as anorexia or PTSD, then that'll go in your record; if you are there for less comprehensive reasons (like I was), then you might receive a more general diagnosis, like mild depression or anxiety.
5. What should you do before the first session?
Once you've got your list of potential therapists, reach out over email or phone. Don't be discouraged if they don't have openings, or can't work with your schedule or insurance; this is why you have backups. They should understand your constraints, and if they can't accommodate them, they may be able to suggest a different therapist who can.

In addition to hammering out logistics (appointment times, location, fee), ask about the therapist's background and outlook, either on a short call (15 minutes or less), or via email. "You want to get a sense of the therapist's relationship to their work," says Byock. "I recommend questions like, 'Have you been in therapy yourself?' And, 'What made you decide to become a therapist?' That will help set a foundation for what's going to happen during therapy, and why you both are in the room together."

You can also ask about the therapist's experience in dealing with your demographic or community, says Tovell-Toubal. "For example, if you're in your 30s and the therapist specializes in treating children, you probably want to know that before you make an appointment. I've also been asked questions like, 'Have you had experience with the LGBTQ community?' Or, 'Are you religious?'"

It's totally fine if you feel more comfortable with a therapist who has a similar cultural background to your own, or who speaks Spanish, or has a certain gender identity. But also, be open. A good therapist might help you explore some of these requirements in a way that makes you more flexible.
6. How should you discuss the therapist's fee?
Therapists are trained to manage this discussion, but it may still be awkward, especially if it's a stretch for you to afford the costs. You should have a sense of the fee before you arrive for your first appointment, which you will be billed for (some therapists don't charge for the first session, but the vast majority do). Don't walk into anything that you truly can't pay for, but know that you can talk to your therapist about ways to make it more affordable. A lot of therapists charge on a sliding scale, which means they are willing to provide some leeway.

Remember, therapy is a serious investment. It may be expensive - usually about $60-$120 per session or more, depending on where you live - but the benefits should feel worth it, especially over time.

If you're really strapped, Byock recommends looking for a supervised, unlicensed intern (emphasis on supervised - they should be able to provide the name of their supervisor, who should be licensed, for you to double-check if you want). "Interns are building their practice and must complete a certain number of hours of supervised clinical work in order to get their license, so they have a great reason to be working early with people who can't afford a full fee," says Byock. "They can also be great clinicians."
7. Any red flags to look out for at the first appointment?
When you go to your first appointment, pay close attention to how you physically feel in the room. Is the temperature okay? Can you sit comfortably on the furniture? Is there a weird smell? Do you feel like you have your therapist's full attention, or is there a distracting computer screen or beeping sound or spider on the ceiling? Does the space feel private and safe? If not, bring it up to the therapist. These things don't have to be immediate deal-breakers, but be aware of your body and do your best to communicate what you're experiencing in the moment.

Some anxiety is normal, but again, try to mention it when it's happening ("I feel a little dizzy/my stomach feels tight/I don't know what to do with my hands," etc.). It might feel strange to verbalize these things, but therapists go through extensive training to listen and respond to what you're saying. Most will welcome this information, because it helps them help you.

Ultimately, you should feel a strong connection to your therapist, says Byock. "It's a relationship, and there needs to be some fundamental chemistry. Your therapist should be someone you want to speak to, and who you look forward to seeing even when the work gets difficult."

Things to watch out for: "You should feel like your therapist is totally present with you during your session. They should not be multi-tasking unless it's directly related to your therapy," says Byock. "They should also never fall asleep on you, which happens." (Yep.) But your therapist is human, she adds, and sometimes their mistakes can be a fruitful part of your work together. "If they do something that bothers you, the critical question is, can you talk to them about it? And can they appropriately apologize, or respond in a way that is non-defensive and maintains boundaries? Repair and reconnection is a very basic part of the way we develop trust."
8. How do you know if it's "working"?
"If you don't feel you've made progress after four to five meetings with someone, then you need to think about switching therapists," says Tovell-Toubal. What counts as progress is up to you - you can't expect to check off boxes. And you certainly can't expect your therapist to "fix" you. "Even the most genius therapists in the world aren't going to be able to change someone's timeline for growth," says Byock. "You also have a responsibility to try to push the relationship in a new direction."

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How to Find a Therapist for the First Time

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The summer before I turned 28, I felt like I was swimming through a hot, sour fog. I was exhausted all the time, but I also couldn't sleep, and sometimes I'd wake up in the middle of the night and cry. My eating habits got weird. I started second-guessing everything I did at work.

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When faced with a personal conflict, relationship or family troubles, or a mental health condition such as depression, stress, or anxiety, many people turn to a therapist for help. A therapist is a person who has received training to help treat mental or physical health problems. In the context of psychology, a therapist is a person who is trained and licensed to practice psychotherapy.

Finding the right therapist can often be a lengthy and challenging process, and some people may not know where to begin. Determining what kind of therapist is best suited to treat a particular issue may not be the easiest task, and a therapist's ethics or credentials are also often a topic of consideration. It may also be impractical, impossible, or even dangerous for some individuals to spend any length of time on the telephone, contacting potential therapists and describing the issues they would like to explore in therapy.

GoodTherapy.org offers a directory to help you in your search for a therapist. Using the directory, you can search by therapist location, specialization, gender, and age group treated. If you search by location, your results will include the therapists near you and will display their credentials, location, and the issues they treat. Some types of therapists that may list in our directory include:

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs): Licensing requirements vary by state, but LCSWs hold graduate degrees and typically have at least two years of clinical social work experience. LCSWs may provide individual, family, or couples therapy. They often work in schools, public health and medical fields, or other community and group settings.

Licensed Addiction Counselors (LACs): LACs are not typically referred to as therapists, but they may practice alongside therapists. Typically, LACs have a bachelor's degree and will have a minimum of one year of training in addiction counseling.

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs): LMFTs, who focus primarily on marriage and family therapy, will have a master's degree and typically must complete an internship before practicing.

Because GoodTherapy.org has high membership standards, our directory is one of the safest places to find a therapist online. We require all therapists who list in our directory to have a graduate-level education and to agree to the elements of healthy therapy. Therapists who list with us pay a membership fee, which helps support our services. They must also have a professional license or reside in a jurisdiction in which it is legal to practice without a license or as an intern under supervision.

A therapist is often the first point of contact for a person seeking mental health care, and the primary role of the therapist is to help people process challenges in their lives. They often help individuals navigate conflict, resolve internal struggles, and address mental health conditions. When a therapist is not committed to healthy, ethical therapy, this can cause significant harm to a person in treatment. We recognize some therapists engage in unethical behavior, and so we strive to list in our directory only those therapists who promote a healthy and ethical therapeutic practice.

At GoodTherapy.org, you will also find a wide range of resources aimed at helping you in your search for a therapist. If you are in crisis or know someone who is, you can find relevant information and resources on our crisis help page (/in-crisis.html). This page also offers resources to those who have experienced or are experiencing sexual assault and abuse or domestic violence.

If you wish to learn more about a particular mental health condition or issue treated in therapy, we have pages that provide detailed information on these topics. We also have a section devoted to types of therapy, where you can learn more about particular therapeutic techniques that may be of interest to you.

We wish you the best in your search for the right therapist.

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When faced with a personal conflict, relationship or family troubles, or a mental health condition such as depression, stress, or anxiety, many people turn to a therapist for help. A therapist is a person who has received training to help treat mental or physical health problems. In the context of psychology, a therapist is a person who is trained and licensed to practice psychotherapy.

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While there are a lot of therapists offering their services, finding someone you like takes dedicated effort, especially if you have never seen a therapist before. Many professions offer therapy. In addition to psychology, some of these include psychiatry, social work and counseling.

Here are some of the more important issues you should consider:

Is the therapist licensed? Each state is responsible for making sure therapists are competent to provide their services. Only those with proper training receive a license.

If you have health insurance, will it cover the therapy from this provider?

Are there limits to the number of sessions covered by your insurance?

Two websites for locating psychologists include the Psychologist Locator on the website of the American Psychological Association and the National Register. Your state psychological association may be another source of potential names. Another way to find a therapist is to ask friends or your physician to suggest someone they trust.

While it is not too difficult to find the name of a therapist, it may take more time to find a therapist that you consider to be "good." Here are some helpful hints:

Call the therapist on the phone and find out if the therapist is familiar with evidence-based treatment for your concerns and if your therapist uses evidence-based treatment in their practice. These are treatments that have been tested scientifically and shown to be effective. Evidence-based treatment (e.g. for depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bedwetting for children, obsessive compulsive behavior) is based on published research of controlled studies meeting acceptable criteria.

Ask whether the therapist has had experience in dealing with your concerns. Some therapists specialize in working with children or families, adults or older adults. Some may have lots of experience with the problems that concern you. Find out, if possible, how much experience they have had.

Find out in advance what the fees will cost you, the charge for missed sessions and, if possible, how long therapy might take.

Find out where the therapist is located, what hours are available for your treatment, and if the therapist will see you in an emergency. Is the therapist located in a clinic, community mental health center, medical school, independent practice or other setting?

Find out what kind of therapy your potential therapist is likely to provide (for example, long term versus short term, individual or group therapy, what theoretical orientation) and see if that fits your expectations.

Remember that choosing a therapist is a very personal matter. There is no one therapist that is good for everyone. It is important that you feel a sense of trust and that this therapist can help you.

After you have gathered all of this information (or as much as you have been able to obtain), give yourself a little time to think about all this. You may want to set up initial appointments with one or two potential therapists and see how comfortable you are with them. Take the time to find the right therapist for you.

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While there are a lot of therapists offering their services, finding someone you like takes dedicated effort, especially if you have never seen a therapist before. Many professions offer therapy. In addition to psychology, some of these include psychiatry, social work and counseling.

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If you're considering therapy - whether it's to restore a relationship, recover from a trauma, adjust to a new life phase, or improve your mental health - finding the right therapist is the first hurdle to cross.

Researchers have found that the bond between you and your therapist is likely to have a big impact on your growth. That's why it's important to do your research, ask questions, and pay attention to your own responses in your search for the therapist that's right for you.

Here are some tried-and-true methods for finding a therapist to help you reach your therapeutic goals.

If you plan to pay for therapy through your insurance plan, your first step might be to look through your plan's provider network.

It's also a good idea to find out whether your plan limits the number of sessions you can attend each year and whether using an out-of-network therapist will affect your out-of-pocket costs.

A referral from a friend, colleague, or doctor you trust is another way to find a therapist who might be a good fit for you.

While a referral is a good place to start, it's important to recognize that you may have different needs and goals with your therapy than the person giving you the recommendation.

So, a good match for one of you might not be as beneficial to the other.

A number of mental health organizations maintain up-to-date, searchable databases of licensed therapists.

Your search could start as simply as typing in your ZIP code to generate a list of counselors in your area. You may also be able to search for specialists, like marriage and family counselors or therapists who focus on drug and alcohol use.

Some of the most commonly used online search tools include:

Your community may also have resources to help you. If you're a student, your school might provide access to a counseling center.

If you're employed, your human resources team might offer a list of therapists available through a workplace wellness or employee assistance program.

If you need counseling related to domestic or sexual abuse, you might be able to find group or individual therapy through a local advocacy organization.

If you want your faith to inform your treatment, you might consider reaching out to your church, synagogue, mosque, or other worship center for a list of licensed therapists affiliated with your faith.

If you're looking for a therapist to help with a specific mental health issue, you might find local therapists through a national association, network, or helpline.

Here are a few examples of organizations that offer search tools to help you find a specialized therapist near you:

If your job is a source of stress and anxiety, you might find local therapists through a professional organization.

Many of these organizations and trade unions have resources to help you identify professionals who can assist with mental health needs. For example, the International Association of Firefighters offers help with mental health, PTSD, and substance abuse.

What do you want to accomplish in therapy? have found that when you and your therapist both work together toward the same goals, your outlook will be better.

If you think some type of medication may help with your symptoms, you'll want to find a psychiatrist or practitioner who can prescribe medications.

If you've heard that cognitive behavioral therapy or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy have been effective for others with your condition, you'll want to look for a therapist with certifications or specialized training in those treatment approaches.

If you want to be part of a supportive network of people who understand your experiences, you may want to consider looking for a therapist who's involved with support groups or group therapy sessions.

Your goals may change as you work with a therapist. It's okay to talk to your therapist about changing the direction of your treatment plan as your needs evolve.

Talkspace and Betterhelp both offer tools to help you explore the kind of therapy you want. They can also match you with a licensed, accredited therapist you can work with online or via phone.

Some people find a digital therapy platform to be more convenient and more affordable than in-person therapy. Weekly sessions range from $35 to $80 for online therapy.

At least one found that people with depression felt that their symptoms improved after online sessions. It's worth noting, however, that two of the researchers involved with this study were consultants or employees of the digital therapy provider used.

When you meet your therapist, whether it's online, on the phone, or in person, it's not uncommon to completely forget every question you wanted to ask.

To make sure you have the information you need to make a good decision, keep paper and a pen, or a notes app, handy for a few days before your meeting. Jot down questions as they come to you.

The American Psychological Association suggests a few questions for you to consider asking your therapist during your first session:

Are you a licensed psychologist in this state?

How many years have you been in practice?

How much experience do you have working with people who are dealing with [the issue you'd like to resolve]?

What do you consider to be your specialty or area of expertise?

What kinds of treatments have you found effective in resolving [the issue you'd like to resolve]?

What insurance do you accept?

Will I need to pay you directly and then seek reimbursement from my insurance company, or do you bill the insurance company?

Are you part of my insurance network?

Do you accept Medicare or Medicaid?

The Anxiety and Depression Association of America adds questions like these:

If I need medication, can you prescribe it or recommend someone who does?

Do you provide access to telehealth services?

How soon can I expect to start feeling better?

What do we do if our treatment plan isn't working?

Note: If you've ever been abused by someone in authority or affected by historic trauma or racism, you may want to ask questions that help you find out whether a potential therapist is culturally informed and sensitive to your experiences.

No matter how many professional accreditations your therapist has, your own feelings of trust and comfort should be your top priority. Will therapy be uncomfortable from time to time? Possibly. After all, you'll likely be discussing difficult, personal topics.

But if you feel uncomfortable with your therapist for any other reason, it's all right to look for someone else.

You don't need a reason to switch therapists. It's enough that you don't feel comfortable.

Here are a few things to notice as you talk with your therapist:

Does the therapist interrupt you, or do they listen carefully to what you're saying?

How does your body feel during a therapy session? Do you feel tense?

Does the therapist respect your time by being prompt to appointments?

Does the therapist brush off or invalidate your concerns?

Do you feel seen, heard, and respected during your session?

Whether you're coping with grief, trauma, or relationship issues, or want treatment for a mental illness, finding a helpful therapist can make a big difference in your journey.

To find a therapist who's a good fit, start by considering practical matters like licensure, insurance coverage, location, and specialties.

You may find that friends, colleagues, and your healthcare providers are a good source of referrals. You may also find options by using search tools provided by organizations that address your specific concerns.

When you've narrowed down your choices, you may find it helpful to think about your goals and questions, so you can be sure you and your therapist are well matched and aligned on your treatment plan.

Ultimately, finding the right therapist is a personal matter. Human connection is at the heart of effective therapy, and you can build that sense of connection whether you meet your therapist in person, on the phone, or online.

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How to Find a Therapist That's Right for You: 9 Key Tips

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If you're considering therapy - whether it's to restore a relationship, recover from a trauma, adjust to a new life phase, or improve your mental health - finding the right therapist is the first hurdle to cross. Researchers have found that the bond between you and your therapist is likely to have a big impact on your growth.