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Availability last updated 04/05/2026
Availability last updated 04/05/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 70 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi! My name is Kaitlyn and I am a licensed clinical social worker with 4 years of experience as a therapist. I admire that you have taken the first step in your therapy journey- I understand how hard that first step can be. As a therapist, I am here to walk along side you as you navigate through the...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 10
Psychologist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a PsyD and a Master's degree in Psychology from The University of Toledo. I believe in utilizing evidence-based therapy to provide the best care to clients. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, adjustment concerns, generalized stress, obsessive-co...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi. My name is Erv. I have helped many people find happiness and overcome barriers to success. I earned my Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Marshall University and have spent most of the last decade working in the addiction treatment industry in Cincinnati. I help people explore their stren...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My approach to therapy is client-centered, creating a supportive and nonjudgmental space where individuals feel empowered to explore their thoughts and emotions. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing to help clients develop self-awareness, build c...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Apr 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am Dr. Shazia Naurin, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Supervisor based in Ohio, dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with compassion, evidence-based care, and cultural sensitivity. I hold national certification as a counselor (NCC), a Certified Clinical Mental...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Apr 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, my name is Alyce Fortnoff, LPCC-S. I live in Ohio and see clients via telehealth throughout the state. I have over 25 years of experience, and most of my clients are between the ages of 20 and 75. I earned my Master's in Counseling from The University of Akron. My focus is working with clients t...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Columbus, OH
Accepts Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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In our first session, we will get to know each other and decide if we're a good fit. We will review your background and history as well as your current struggles and symptoms. We will also discuss your goals and objectives, focusing on your priorities. I will ask you many questions about your goals ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.87
·15 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 20 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Taylor Bradley is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a unique educational background combining marketing communications and psychiatric nursing. She hails from Tupelo, Mississippi, where her upbringing instilled a deep sense of compassion and service, guiding her tow...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Jeyran! Hello! My name is Jeyran Shahgaldiyeva, and I am a licensed clinical therapist credentialed to provide services in Ohio, Massachusetts, and Florida. My approach I take a holistic, strengths-based approach, drawing from the best evidence-based practices. My approach is ecle...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 19 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, I'm so glad you are considering counseling; it is not a sign of weakness; rather it reflects strength. Therapy can help you cope with life's situations in a safe environment while strengthening your sense of purpose. I would like to share a little about my background and approach. I am a clin...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Apr 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Heather lis very good practioner. Listens to me and give good advice and good treatment program. Would highly recommend her to anyone. by Sandra F.Click to read more
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 70 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi, I'm Heather and am dually licensed as a mental health and chemical addiction counselor. My role is to support you, listen to you, and work with you to help you achieve your goals. Our sessions will be a collaborative journey, where we explore your thoughts and feelings together, at a pace that f...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·6 reviews
- Dec 18, 2025 by Fatima K.Click to read more
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I'm an Independent Licensed Social Worker (LISW-S) with over a decade of clinical experience. I hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Morehead State University and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Kentucky. I'm passionate about creating a supportive, relaxed environment where...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, I am Casie! I am a here for YOU and your journey. Whether that be for yourself, or your child, I am here to help! I am trained in EMDR and Perinatal Mood Disorders. I graduated with a specialty in children and adolescents but have helped clients of all ages with many different diagnoses rangi...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I earned both my Bachelors and Masters degrees from Youngstown State University and began my career working in foster care as a case manager, where I developed a strong foundation in advocacy, family systems, and trauma informed care. I later expanded my clinical work as a mental health therapist in...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 48 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.90
·10 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi there! I am Irena. Do you need a space where the focus is on you and your needs? Whether you seek better understanding or urgent solutions in your life, I am here to support you and share my knowledge and experience, with over 20 years in mental health counseling and psychotherapy. I hold a Maste...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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UpLift Behavioral Health providers do not issue prescriptions for substances controlled by any federal or state agency or other drugs that may be harmful because of their potential for abuse. UpLift Behavioral Health reserves the right to limit the types of medications that may be prescribed by its ...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 18 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Samantha Fooce has been working in the human services field since 1999. Her first position as an unlicensed (paraprofessional) “Crisis Counselor” was on the midnight shift from 1999 to 2001 at Pathways Inc.’s Crisis Center in Ashland, KY. Since then, she has gained experience as a Child Protective S...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 50 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Congratulations on overcoming the discomfort in connecting to services that can help to create, re-establish, or reinforce the life you want to live. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment where you feel comfortable being open and honest in order to have the best possible outcomes. I ...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
Family Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.80
·25 reviews
Great help and advice. - May 4, 2025 by Chester B.Click to read more
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in depression + 2 more ·
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Hi there, I'm Erin! My name is Erin Thompson. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Ohio treating ages from 6 through adulthood. My approach My approach to providing mental healthcare is to provide medication based on the needs of the patient. I encourage the patient to be open and honest with ho...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·23 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 18 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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My name is Katelyn and I earned my Master of Social Work from The Ohio State University and have 5 years of experience providing therapy to clients recovering from trauma and abuse, healing from depression and anxiety, and hoping to increase their skills use. I earned my Bachelor's in Education and ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 70 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Do you feel like you are not being heard? Do you feel overwhelmed or stuck? If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction issues, or find yourself in a season of life that is causing you pain, I can help. Your story is important to me. Our past hurts and struggles can have a tremendous impa...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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There are times in your life when you may feel helpless, depressed, anxious, or even be experiencing conflict with the people you love. You may also see a family member, child, or friend struggling and wonder what you can do to help them work through their negative feelings. When we are in dark plac...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 70 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor - Supervisor (LPCC-S) in Ohio. I earned my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The University of Akron and my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from The University of Toledo. With a diverse background in hospital settings, community me...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·12 reviews
Lydia is very kind and caring. She takes the time to get to know her clients and understand the root of their challenges. by SKClick to read more
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Lydia Elick is a Licensed Social Worker and Chemical Dependency Counselor with 7 years of experience. She graduated from the University of Toledo in 2021 with a Bachelor's of Social Work and intends to pursue her Masters of Social Work in 2026. She has a passion for helping individuals struggling wi...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Apr 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, I am Doris Rhodes, MA, LPCC and I hold a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary and Ive been a licensed mental health professional since February 2017. My passion as a professional clinical counselor is to walk with you as you navigate through li...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.82
·33 reviews
She’s a great listener I felt very comfortable talking about my goals and what I need - May 7, 2024 by Debrah Z.Click to read more
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi, I'm Natalie. Do you feel tired of not being heard, or are you afraid, anxious, or depressed with no desire to stand up and advocate for yourself? Do you feel lost, with no direction or in the wrong direction, lacking purpose? Let me help you find your compass so that you can navigate life's pre...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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With over two decades of experience, Ive had the privilege of working in a variety of settings and roles. I bring this professional background to my practice, but my core desire remains the same to be a warm, supportive presence as I guide you on your journey. I work from a relational focus, which ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 72 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello! I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Ohio with a Master's in Clinical Social Work from Case Western Reserve University and 20 years of experience providing therapy. I offer both in-person sessions at my office and video sessions. I work with individuals ages 18 and up, as well as coup...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Jessica! My name is Jessica Michels, and I am a clinical social worker with an independent license to practice. I earned my Master's in Social Work from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. I believe in a client-centered, strengths-based approach to working with clients. I...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, my name is Rhonda Farley, and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) providing services statewide in Ohio via telehealth. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from Walden University. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, Im Ellise, a Licensed Independent Social Worker LISW in Ohio. For the past seven years Ive been dedicated to supporting adult patients with PTSD, anxiety, depression, BPD, and substance abuse diagnoses become the best version of themselves. My therapeutic approach is rooted in CBT, DBT, EFT, ACT...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 72 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am a great listener. I am versatile and can be your sounding board, your guide, and/or your motivator. With a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Akron, I am committed to helping you achieve your goals without judgment.Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.91
·11 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 57 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I have been working in this field for over a decade in various roles. I started my career working with physically disabled youth in college. I then moved on to working with developmentally disabled adults. After that, I took on a role as a case manager specializing in transitional-aged youth (teenag...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi there, I'm Cassandra! I am Cassandra Martin-Weiler, a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 25 years of experience in various therapeutic settings. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from Michigan State University. My approach Depending on the needs of each client, I use various evide...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.95
·22 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am an experienced Motivational Therapist with a Positive Psychology approach, often described as both a Listener and Life Coach. I hold a Master's in Social Work from the University of Akron. My specialties include working with ADHD/ADD, Male Issues, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Teen Issues, Couple...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Apr 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 70 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am Brandalyn Kemp, a family and marriage counselor with over 10 years of experience working with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety and depression. I have worked with individuals, couples and families in community and private practice. I am licensed in Ohio and Georgia. I love...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Apr 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·7 reviews
The audio and visual on the call were simply excellent. Teresa is both an excellent listener and a good communicator. I felt very comfortable with her and she was actually early for my appointment. I had no idea that mental health could be so much easier than it used to be 20 or 30 years ago. Today ...Click to read more
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi there, I'm Theresa! I'm a therapist with over 15 years of experience in community mental health centers, schools, crisis centers, and outpatient therapy offices, working with teens and adults. I use a person-centered approach to therapy where you, the client, are the expert, and I am here to s...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Apr 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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My practice was born from the understanding that people who struggle often have filled their day to day lives with survival mechanisms: habits, actions, and thoughts that may have helped in the moment but become burdensome over time. The lasting effects of trauma can create an overwhelming sense of ...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 10
Psychologist (Virtual)
5.00
·12 reviews
- May 12, 2025 by Jennessa R.Click to read more
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi, my name is Hao. Are you struggling with worries or negative thoughts that just won't go away? Do you find it difficult to stay positive and treat yourself with compassion? I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Ohio. I received my Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from Wright State University, S...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Apr 10
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100k

Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

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15+ years

In the business of finding quality care for patients

Patients trust Zocdoc
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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with a doctor for Psychotherapy?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a doctor for Psychotherapy, book an appointment, and see the doctor within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of doctors for Psychotherapy in your area who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find a doctor for Psychotherapy who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for doctors for Psychotherapy who take your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with a doctor for Psychotherapy?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find doctors for Psychotherapy and book appointments instantly. You can search for doctors for Psychotherapy or any other visit reason. Then, enter your desired appointment location and choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Psychotherapy doctor?

When you search for Psychotherapy doctors on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see doctors who match your preferences.


How can I find a Psychotherapy doctor who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Psychotherapy doctors with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Psychotherapy doctor?

You can use Zocdoc to find Psychotherapy doctors who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with a Psychotherapy doctor online?

Psychotherapy doctors on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Psychotherapy doctors who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Psychotherapy doctor online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Psychotherapy doctors who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find a Psychotherapy doctor who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Psychotherapy doctor who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find a Psychotherapy doctor who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Psychotherapy doctors. Many Psychotherapy doctors offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


What is online therapy?

Online therapy, telepsychology, or web therapy is a convenient and accessible alternative to seeing a psychologist in person. Numerous websites and apps offer virtual access to therapists. Therapists can also expand their practice into telehealth, which involves providing their services via voice and video calls and text messages. You can seek individual and couples therapy online. Many psychiatrists also offer virtual services.


For which conditions can you seek online therapy?

Since online therapists have the same training and qualifications as psychologists you see in person, they can cater to people with various mental health conditions. These include:

  • Depression
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Generalized anxiety disorder
  • Social anxiety disorder
  • Panic disorder
  • Schizophrenia
  • Substance use disorders
  • Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)


What are the benefits of online therapy?

Online therapy has several advantages, such as:

  • Since you can attend online therapy sessions from any place of your choice, you can ensure maximum privacy. It also ensures everyone can access mental healthcare, including people with fewer options for psychologists practicing around them.
  • People experiencing mobility issues, recovering from chronic illnesses, or needing childcare can benefit significantly from the flexible nature of online therapy. 
  • Online therapy is remote, which allows you to save on transportation costs.


Things to consider before starting online therapy

Online therapy is an excellent option for patients who are comfortable communicating with their doctors online. However, you require an internet connection and a device, such as a personal computer, phone, or tablet, to access your sessions. A stable internet connection can help avoid lag or miss out on follow-up sessions, which prevents you from making the most of therapy.


Further, certain psychiatric conditions like personality disorders, severe depression, and eating disorders might require in-person attention. Therefore, before starting - or switching to - online therapy near you, consult your doctor to determine if it is a suitable mode of treatment for you.


How to make the most of your online therapy sessions?

Listed below are a few tips that would help you make the most of your online therapy session: 


  • Plan - Book an appointment ahead of time to free up your calendar. Plus, that way, you can have multiple time and date options, which allows you to schedule your session during an hour when you expect fewer distractions.
  • Medical records - If you have been diagnosed with any mental illness or are on psychiatric medications, ensure those records are handy.
  • Find a quiet space - Identify a space in your house where you will attend your session. It could be your workspace, a room, or even a corner of your house; it should be quiet, private, and free of external distractions. 
  • Internet connection - To avoid any last-minute issues, set the space up and check if your device receives a secure internet connection when sitting there. Get on a video call with a friend to test the video, audio quality, and reception.
  • Communicate your goals - Online therapy greatly depends on clear and honest communication. So, prepare to explain to your therapist why you want to attend therapy and what you expect to achieve from it. Discuss your overall mental health and wellness-related goals with your therapist; it will help them chalk out a treatment plan and assess what you need from each session.
  • Ask questions - Unlike in-person therapy, online therapy does not allow your therapist to pick up on your body language and non-verbal cues. It increases the chances of miscommunication. To avoid that, be as transparent with your therapist as possible. Ask them questions about anything you need help or clarity with, recap the session, and check with them if you can do any 'homework' before your next session. 
  • Follow up - Before concluding each session, schedule the next one if you can. It gives you time to prepare and reduces the possibility of forgetting or feeling inadequately motivated to follow up. Add a reminder on your smartphone or calendar to book your next therapy session. 


Some things to discuss during your first online therapy session

It's normal to feel anxious or nervous about seeing a mental healthcare provider for the first time. Knowing what to expect during your first psychotherapy session and being prepared with questions or topics to discuss can help you feel more informed and at ease. 

The first online psychotherapy session typically serves as an opportunity for you and your provider to become acquainted. This session will also help you understand your provider better and determine if they are the right fit for you. Some therapists may also offer a free introductory phone session, as finding the right provider is often a trial-and-error process, and paying for a single session with a therapist who ultimately will not continue with you long-term may feel unfair.


Depending on your therapist's approach, the session may start with a structured interview or a more casual, free-flowing conversation. You will be asked questions about your symptoms (if any), your medical history, your reasons for seeking therapy, what you plan to accomplish in therapy, your home and work environment, any family history of mental health issues, as well as details about your childhood and relationships with family, friends, and partners. 


Here are some topics you can discuss in the first appointment or even future visits: 


  • It's important to first discuss your goals with the therapist. Help your therapist understand what you would like to change in your life or yourself. Stating your personal goals and outlining your desired outcomes for therapy will help your therapist design a treatment plan aligned with those preferences. 
  • Discuss concerns like new life challenges such as childbirth, marriage, issues at work or school, moving to another state or country, and grieving the loss of a loved one. 
  • If you are having trouble opening up to your therapist, you can discuss this with them so they can help you understand what barriers are keeping you from opening up and how you can unpack your feelings during the session. 
  • Past traumas and experiences in childhood or adulthood can shape your emotional well-being, beliefs, expectations, attachments, and values. Exploring these unresolved traumatic experiences with your therapist will help you understand how they are connected to the present and provide specific clues to current relationship patterns or thought processes that are not able to change in your adult years. 
  • Talk about ways you can regulate your emotions. Some situations may trigger an emotional response and manifest physically. Your psychotherapist may help you identify such situations and underlying issues and create an action plan to help you respond more productively and healthily. They may also recommend techniques like relaxation and mindfulness exercises. 
  • Talk about interpersonal dynamics, including friendships, relationships, family dynamics, and workplace interactions. Your therapist can help you develop listening and communication skills, set boundaries, and show you how you can practice empathy to navigate related challenges. 


Tips to care for your mental health

There are numerous ways to maintain good mental health; the key is figuring out what works best for you. Consider exploring the following methods to keep your mind healthy:

  • Practice gratitude - Reflect on positive events each day, no matter how small, such as good weather, meeting an old friend, or completing a task. Writing these down can be helpful to revisit when you're feeling low.
  • Acknowledge your feelings - Accept your emotions without judgment. It's normal to experience a range of feelings. Avoid suppressing your emotions and talk to someone you trust, or seek online therapy near you.
  • Get enough sleep - Quality sleep significantly impacts your mood. An unstable sleep schedule can cause irritability and put you more at risk of having mental health issues. Maintain a regular sleep schedule and minimize activities that disrupt sleep, like using gadgets before bed.
  • Stay physically active - Exercise helps release tension and negative emotions, even if it's just a short walk. It can enhance your mood, focus, and decision-making abilities.
  • Eat nutritious food - Deficiencies in nutrients like vitamin B12 can contribute to mental health issues such as depression. A balanced diet could help reduce stress and anxiety and also boost your mood.
  • Stay hydrated - Proper hydration aids in maintaining mental focus and energy levels. Limit caffeine intake as excessive amounts can increase tension and exacerbate anxiety or nervousness.
  • Find time to relax - Explore various relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, breathing exercises, journaling, or listening to music. Experiment with different methods to see what works best for you.


Find top-rated therapists offering online therapy near you

Thanks to online therapy, mental healthcare is now at arm's reach! With the extensive database of Zocdoc therapists specializing in different psychological conditions, patients can find the right therapist in just a few clicks. 


To get started, create an account on the Zocdoc website. Next, mention your condition, location, preferred date, time of appointment, and insurance plan on the website. The application will generate a list of top-rated therapists. Furthermore, using the various filters available on the site, you can sort all Zocdoc therapist profiles by their gender, the languages they speak, and whether or not they treat children. If your insurance plan isn't listed on Zocdoc, you can upload a photo of your medical insurance card. Our system will scan the image and display your likely plan. This feature is only available for medical insurance cards, not vision or dental. If you encounter issues uploading your card, the Zocdoc service team can assist you. For more insurance information, check out Zocdoc's patient help center.


On Zocdoc, therapist profiles contain in-depth information about their educational qualifications, experience, licensure, certifications, and areas of expertise. You can also review verified patients' ratings and reviews to make an informed decision.


All bookings on Zocdoc are 100% free, simple, and secure!


Statistics and trends related to online therapy

Online therapy is revolutionizing the outlook toward mental health, removing the stigma that had previously surrounded it for centuries. For instance, a 2020 study by Verywell on 1000 people seeking online therapy inferred that online therapy has opened up new, helpful avenues of mental healthcare. About 91% of the participants suggested more people should try online therapy, while nearly 90% agreed that seeking mental healthcare is a sign of strength. Finally, close to 93% of the participants agreed that therapy has been helpful for them.


An article published on Vicert states that during COVID-19, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported a massive surge in mental health issues. Reported cases of anxiety and depression increased by around 25%, and about 90% of the countries surveyed by WHO planned to include psychological support in their COVID-19 healthcare plans. According to a 2021 study published in the American Psychologist journal, the number of psychologists offering online consultations in the US increased from nearly 7.1% to 85% between 2020 and 021. 


A Forbes Health survey conducted in 2021 on 1,244 adults found that around 21% of all participants sought online therapy in the past year. The survey also highlighted that the number of people seeking therapy decreased among older adults. While almost 38% of millennials (people born between 1981 and 1996) sought online therapy, the number fell to around 16% among Generation X (people born between 1965 and 1980) participants and about 10% among baby boomers (people born between 1946 and 1964).


Sources

American Psychological Association[1]

American Psychological Association[2]

American Psychological Association[3]

APA PsycNet[1]

APA PsycNet[2]

Sage Journals

Nature Portfolio

Forbes

Verywell Mind[1]

Verywell Mind[2]

Verywell Mind[3]

Verywell Mind[4]

PsychCentral

Healthline[1]

Healthnews

Vicert

WebMD

Doctors Hospital of Manteca

Verywell Mind[5]

Verywell Mind[6]

GoodTherapy

Psychology Today

Healthline[2]

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.

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