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Availability last updated 06/25/2026
Availability last updated 06/25/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 48 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Kayleigh! Coming to therapy can be an intimidating step. The courage you have to seek help is very commendable! I would be honored to help you along your path to healing and stability. I focus on working with individuals who are experiencing mental health struggles, addiction issues, ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 30
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 70 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Indiana. I earned my master’s degree in Counseling and Human Services from Purdue University Northwest. I have experience working with a variety of issues, including but not limited to mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, grief/loss, and adjustment disorders...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 48 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Francheska! I am a licensed independent social worker (LISW-S). I take a client-centered approach to therapy, using CBT & ACT techniques to support individuals navigating symptoms of depression and anxiety. My approach I utilize evidence-based techniques such as cognitive behavioral ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 30
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I work with clients who may be struggling with life transitions related to their relationships, family, or self. I often use an eclectic treatment style in my practice. In your first session, we'll explore what brought you to therapy and then decide the most appropriate ways to help you make progres...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.88
·8 reviews
I had my first session with Katrina Spohn, and I was thoroughly impressed. From the start, she made me feel at ease, and I felt heard and understood. Katrina is attentive and creates a safe space for discussing complex topics. I am eager to continue my sessions with her and am confident in our work ...Click to read more
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Hello, I am grateful for your time in reading this. My name is Katrina Spohn, and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (with supervision designation) in Ohio. I hold a Master's in Social Work from Case Western Reserve University. I come to you with 10 years of experience in direct clinical work...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Change can be scary, but it doesn't have to be. We all face situations throughout life that can make us feel overwhelmed and in need of support, encouragement, strategic planning or goal setting. You are not alone. I provide a safe, warm and friendly environment for growth and healing. You may need ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 30
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello! I'm a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) based in Ohio. I received my Masters from Ohio University and have been practicing for 5 years. I help individuals 5 to 65 years of age struggling with things such as various mood disorders, anxiety, and addiction become the best versions of the...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Shawn is a Master's level Clinical Mental Health Therapist/Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a passion to help individuals live their best lives. You and I will work together to identify challenges, maladaptive thoughts & behaviors, and mental health symptoms such as anxiety and depressi...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 48 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Michelle! My name is Michelle Laver, and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with a supervisory certification (LISW) in the state of Ohio, with 25 years of professional work experience. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Eastern Michigan University. I work with adults and...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My dream client is any and everyone who is ready to take the leap into healing and learning new tools to live their best life. My dream client is ready to trust the process and no longer allow the past to hold them back from meeting their truest potential to become the person who faces challenging s...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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As a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW-S) based in Columbus, Ohio, with years of clinical experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating the lasting impact of trauma, chronic stress, anxiety, and life transitions. My work is grounded in empathy and a deep understanding of the e...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 59 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello! My name is Sema and I am a Licensed Master's Social Worker (LMSW) who received my degree from Wayne State University in 2016. In the past 8 years, I have worked with clients who experience challenges with mental health , grief/loss, substance abuse, family dynamics, physical health and more. ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi there! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor with a passion for helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and reconnect with their most empowered selves. I specialize in working with adults experiencing ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder and women’s issues, including identity, ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 30
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 48 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello and welcome to my profile! If you are looking for a professional who's experienced, helpful, casual, and effective, I am yours to consider! I am here to help facilitate further guidance and insight into your challenges and hurdles towards further strength and independence. I help the everyday ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi, I'm Rachel Richard! With over 25 years of experience as a licensed counselor, I specialize in helping people manage anxiety and depression, overcome trauma, and navigate life's everyday challenges. I hold a Master's Degree in Community/Mental Health Counseling from the University of Cincinnati a...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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For over thirteen years, I've dedicated my career to helping people heal, grow ad step into their fullest potential. My journey began in 2012 as a Child Protection Specialist with Cuyahoga County Children and Family Services. Where my passion for mental health and wellness truly came alive. Since th...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am a therapist with over 25 years of experience. I work with individuals, couples, and families facing grief, life transitions, relationship stress, and emotional overwhelm. My approach is compassionate, supportive, and grounded in helping clients feel heard while building practical tools for heal...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 48 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervision Endorsement (LPCC-S) and a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC) based in Akron, Ohio. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment that allows us to establish a trusting relationship. My approach My approac...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 30
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·53 reviews
Dr. Beresh was very easy to talk to. I look forward to our next session - Mar 27, 2024 by Mary Beth D.Click to read more
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hello, my name is Karen. I am an Independent Psychotherapist in Cincinnati, Ohio. I earned a Masters from the University of Pennsylvania through their advanced standing program in one year with a specialization on Mental Health and Addictions. Previous to that I earned a Bachelor's at Northern Kentu...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 30
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Columbus, OH
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi, I’m Shannon, and I’m really glad you’re here. Reaching out for support can feel like a big step, and my goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, understood, and supported from the start. I work with individuals who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about what’s next in ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Life can be a lot to handle sometimes. I strive to create an environment that is collaborative, welcoming and supportive to create a positive, empowering therapy experience. My unique approach embraces your strengths and experience to assist in the therapeutic process. This is your journey. I will ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·6 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 + 67 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: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist in the state of Indiana with over 15 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I hold a Master's degree in Mental Health Community Counseling from Xavier University. I have worked with clients facing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxi...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 49 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Amber! I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) based in Greenville, Ohio, working with clients statewide. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from IU Indianapolis, a Bachelor’s from Indiana University East, and an Associate’s from Sinclair Community College. I have worked with ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello! I'm a Licensed Independent Social Worker - Supervisor (LISW-S) and a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC) based in Ohio. I received my Bachelors in Social Work from Liberty University and my Masters in Social Work from Indiana Wesleyan University and am in my sixth year ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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You're ready for a change—a space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. You deserve a therapist who offers a compassionate presence and a clear path forward. As an individual therapist with over a decade of experience, complemented by my work in community mental health and dual diagno...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Congratulations on taking the next step in your healing journey! I hope to be able to be a part of your journey. I have been a licensed social worker for almost 24 years and an independent social worker for 6 years. I have been providing mental health therapy to people in early recovery for the past...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 30
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 48 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi there, I'm Doris! With over eight years of experience as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), I am dedicated to supporting individuals and families through life’s most challenging moments. My approach I approach therapy with a deep belief in the healing power of authentic human co...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Life is full of change, and sometimes those changes can feel overwhelming. I believe there is no single “right way” to handle life's challenges, which is why I take a person-centered and integrative approach to therapy. My goal is to help you feel supported and more at ease with where you are while ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I have provided counseling and therapy services for over twenty years. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), and EMDR. You want to feel better, and I can help you take those needed steps. I hold a Master's ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
My therapist is personable and friendly. She really provided a listening ear and a safe environment. - Oct 15, 2025 by Darryce M.Click to read more
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 47 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi there, I'm Morgan! Hello There, I am Morgan Baker. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who has worked with individuals and couples for 11 years. When I first began, I found myself so fixated on "Am I doing this right" and "Am I saying the right thing?" Now, I realize each person is un...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm a Colorado native with 20 years of experience in counseling. Our mission is to let you identify changes and then set those goals as we support you every step of the way. Do you feel broken, wounded, desperate, empty, guilty, lost? Our clients appreciate that we all share common experiences, and ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I’m Dr. Clarence “Chip” Chapman, a licensed professional clinical counselor and clinical supervisor who integrates evidence-based therapy with Christian faith when clients desire it. I work with adults facing depression, trauma, and addictive behaviors, including struggles with pornography, helping ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi! I'm Charlotte and I am an independently licensed social worker in the state of Ohio. I have a background in yoga and meditation, and I enjoy bringing these modalities into the therapy room. My hobbies include anything outdoors- hiking, camping, running, biking, etc. I find a lot of inspiration f...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I have over 14 years of experience walking alongside clients during their therapeutic journeys. I’m a compassionate and client-centered therapist dedicated to supporting individuals and couples, as they navigate life’s challenges. My approach integrates evidence-based practices, therapeutic techniqu...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Family Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.27
·11 reviews
She was great. She listened she assessed. She didn't ignore my concerns. Absolutely I would go back, however she can not give me what I need. So I probably won't be going back unfortunately. - Mar 4, 2025 by Tiffany C.Click to read more
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 48 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Valerie! My name is Valerie Puffenberger, I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services. Areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 30
Psychologist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 48 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Elaine! I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a PsyD in Clinical Psychology from Wright State University. A native New Yorker, a transplanted Ohioian, and currently, I am proudly stationed at one of the largest joint bases in the U.S. My approach I see myself as being on a jour...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 30
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 48 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Is your child becoming more depressed, anxious, or defiant, spending way too much time on devices? Are you experiencing uncertainty about where you are in your life and where to go from here? Are you a creative person? As individuals, we often struggle to strike a balance between our careers, our in...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 48 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
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: Mon, Jun 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I’m Angelica Gray, a Licensed Certified Social Worker in Arkansas and a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Ohio. I began my career as a child protective investigator in 2010, transitioned into mental health case management in 2014, and have been working as a psychotherapist since 2016. I’ve owned...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 29
Calendar Check
1-3 days

Average time it takes to be seen by a provider

Doctor
100k

Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

Primary Care Physician
15+ years

In the business of finding quality care for patients

Patients trust Zocdoc
I checked out Zocdoc’s website and was pleasantly surprised. I read a lot of positive reviews from most of their providers...My only regret is that I didn’t make an appointment sooner.
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Made my life so much easier. As someone with chronic health conditions, Zocdoc makes it easy for me to build my medical team and keep track of everything!!
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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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