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Availability last updated 07/21/2026
Availability last updated 07/21/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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As a dedicated therapist, I provide a compassionate and nonjudgmental space where you can explore challenges and develop the tools necessary for lasting change. My approach is collaborative and evidence-based, focusing on your unique strengths to help you navigate life’s transitions, improve your re...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
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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My name is Beth Brown! I am a licensed independent social worker living near Dayton, OH. I enjoy being outdoors, doing arts and crafts, and baking yummy treats. I have experience working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life change, grief, and who may be dealing with some spi...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.60
·10 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Ms. Caren Nowak is an empathetic and engaged psychotherapist. She holds a master's degree in social administration from Case Western Reserve University. At ReachLink, Ms. Nowak conducts virtual sessions, providing a secure and unbiased environment for her patients to share their thoughts and emotio...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Jul 25
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.82
·11 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 59 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Welcome and hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University. I have found an incredible passion for helping individuals. I have worked extensively in substance abuse, women's issues (infertility), trauma, couples, ...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jul 24
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·14 reviews
10/10 I would definitely recommend! She is so personable and it felt like talking to a good friend! - Apr 20, 2026 by casey E.Click to read more
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Allison Huss is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor with a Gambling Endorsement (GAMB). She is also a 2025 graduate of the Ohio Gambling Treatment Fellowship. For the past three years, Allison has specialized in gambling treatment, pro...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Jul 25
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·11 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am Elizabeth Lucarelli, a licensed clinical social worker with a Master's in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and over 19 years of experience providing mental health care across diverse settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and home environments. I specialize in ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am best described as a collaborative and client-centered clinician. I utilize compassion-centered approaches, incorporating education about the mind-body connection in our work. My goal is to integrate techniques to help you feel centered in your own body throughout our work together. While my app...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I was raised in a working class family of five children in New Jersey where the 4th of the five of us was adopted. I am the oldest of the five. I retire May 2026 as the Grace F. Brody Professor of Parent-Child Studies at the Mandel School (Social Work), Case Western Reserve University. I have been a...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am kind, open, honest, and authentic while working with my clients. I will challenge you and push you when you need to be pushed. I will call you out if you are not doing the work. My job is to help you to reach your goals, and I will help you learn to get out of your own way. I will be your advoc...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jul 24
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor striving to help individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, life transitions, substance use, and/or overall general mental health. I am passionate about helping others and providing a safe space to navigate thr...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jul 24
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 11 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi! I'm Laura, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I received my Masters from the Hawaii Pacific University and have been practicing for 7 years. I specialize in providing support and guidance to children, teens, young adults, adults, and their families facing challenges related to depression,...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am a trauma-informed Independent Couple and Family Therapist who holds space for the many intersecting factors that shape a person or relationship. I received my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Appalachian State University, along with a certificate in Multicultural Counseling. As a q...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 39 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Life can throw overwhelming challenges your way, leaving you feeling stuck or drained. I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate these difficult times with evidence-based, empathetic, and personalized care. My approach I dedicate time to truly hear your concerns, fears, and hopes without inter...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jul 24
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.50
·46 reviews
Very well. I would recommend NP Weintroub - May 13, 2026 by Robbie Y.Click to read more
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 20 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Daniel Wintroub is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Born and raised in Southern California in a blue-collar family, Daniel’s passion for teamwork and collaboration was nurtured through his early involvement in soccer. His experiences competing in sports also instilled ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 27
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 57 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello, my name is Renee Taylor a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Ohio with a strong foundation in clinical social work and years of experience in both community and private practice settings. In addition to clinical work, I stay actively involved in community advocacy, program development, and...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jul 24
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 42 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Rod! Hi there, and thanks for stopping by. My name is Rod and I am a passionate Independent Marriage and Family Therapist based in Ohio. I know finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, and I hope this gives you a sense of who I am and how I work. Over the years, I’ve had the...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jul 24
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 42 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Robyn! I’m so glad you’re here. Taking the first step toward change can feel overwhelming, but you’ve found a safe, welcoming space to begin your journey. Whether you’re feeling stuck, uncertain, or weighed down by life’s challenges, I’m here to support you with compassion, creativity...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jul 24
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 42 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in high cholesterol ·
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I am dedicated to providing compassionate and individualized care to individuals and look forward to assisting you on your mental health journey. My approach My primary focus is to make sure that you feel heard, hopeful, and valued. Through a collaborative approach incorporating your unique circumst...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jul 24
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Meet Amanda! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervision designation (LPCC-S) in the state of Ohio. I earned my Master's of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from John Carroll University and my Master of Education degree in Leadership and Higher Education. I have s...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, and welcome! I'm so glad you're here! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio with 15 years of experience. I currently work with individuals ages 15 and over, but much of my recent focus has been on working with women dealing with anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I b...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 41 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Fri, Jul 24
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 42 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
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, Jul 24
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 7 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I'm Ellise, a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) in Ohio. For the past eight years I've 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,...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
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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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: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 57 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Expertise in developmental disabilities ·
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In life I have experienced many things that led me to start a private practice to help others gain their personal power back. I know how the struggle affects a person and with the skills that I have acquired over thirty years of work I know how to help someone be successful. There is no subject or e...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
3.44
·9 reviews
I dont know company called happier living lied didnt book my appointment tbey mess with people who need help i dont recommend this company at all i will never book here again and im tell others dont waste their time. Not the pro iders fault at all he didnt even get a chance to work wifh me becajse o...Click to read more
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 19 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Lloyd Gallimore, NP, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Growing up in rural Appalachia, Lloyd was surrounded by a community where many people lacked adequate healthcare. His parents instilled in him the values of hard work and helping the underserved, shaping his pass...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 27
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.50
·2 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervisory designation, licensed to practice in the state of Ohio. I received my Master's in Clinical Counseling from Xavier University, Ohio, and have been practicing for 12 years. I specialize in treating adult clients with co-occurring ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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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: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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With 18 years of experience in the mental health and addiction field, I specialize in helping clients navigate the complex intersections of addiction, depression, and anxiety. My approach focuses on creating a non-judgmental, collaborative space where individuals can build sustainable, healthy copin...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi, I'm Chelsea. I'm a licensed therapist with over 7 years of experience supporting individuals through anxiety, life transitions, relationship stress, and everyday feelings. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in person-centered care, I believe therapy works best when you feel truly h...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jul 24
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I serve high-achieving women, leaders, executives, helping professionals, ministry leaders, and couples who are facing anxiety, depression, burnout, relationship concerns, life transitions, and the pressures that often accompany leadership and caregiving roles. Many of my clients are accustomed to b...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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In and out of the therapy room, I show up as an authentic, warm, and grounded human being. Clients often describe my presence as a balance of steady calm and active engagement. I listen with deep curiosity and without a shred of judgment, creating a sanctuary where you can drop your guard. I balance...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and a graduate of John Carroll University, where I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I specialize in working with individuals and families impacted by trauma, and I approach this work with deep compassion, respect, ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who has experience with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, substance use/addition, co-occurring disorders, and age related illnesses. I have previously worked in office based setting providing substance use services and most recently ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
3.67
·6 reviews
Literally no one called me. - May 23, 2025 by Terryon J.Click to read more
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 19 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Nathalie Dagobert, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to compassionate, client-centered care. Raised in a Haitian household in Florida, she developed a deep appreciation for human connection and a passion for understanding the complexities of the mi...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 27
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Great initial appointment. I feel he will be great to work with for regular therapy. Established clear goals - Mar 12, 2026 by Michael F.Click to read more
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi there Im Ross, and Im so happy you are making the steps to focus on your mental health. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes therapy should feel like a safe, affirming space where you can be your authentic self without judgement. I specialize in working with young adults, especiall...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 41 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a huge believer in the idea that the relationship between therapist and client is the single greatest factor in determining the degree to which a client feels and is better. I love working with adolescents and young adults, helping to sort out a complex and confusing world. I also have worked f...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jul 24
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Cigna + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a woman who grew up in a military family that has moved all around the world and changed many schools growing up. I started my career in juvenile corrections, then addiction studies, then mental health and now integrated healthcare. I specialize in the whole person and encouraging them to be t...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 10 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, Jul 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Columbus, OH
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi! I'm Dr. Linda Koenig and I have over two decades of experience helping adolescents and adults navigate anxiety, mood concerns, trauma, and complex life transitions in both community and university settings. I offer evidence-based, practical support that balances warmth, clear feedback, and real-...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
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
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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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