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315 verified Psychologists in Philadelphia, PA
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 10/07/2026
Availability last updated 10/07/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Greetings! My name is Cheryl D. Nelson. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), in the state of Pennsylvania. My clinical background is in Community Mental Health. I have worked with adults, adolescents, and children for over 10 years in school, home and outpatient settings; both virtually and...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Oct 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I'm Ande, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over seven years of experience helping children, teens, and women navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience. I believe that everyone deserves a safe, supportive space where they can feel heard, understood, and accepted witho...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I’m a warm, compassionate and down to earth therapist, who believes healing happens through genuine connection. With more than 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I bring both clinical knowledge and a deeply human approach to our work together. I’m thoughtful and intuitive but I also ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I'm Nicole Knox, LPC and owner of Mental Momentum Counseling & Consulting, LLC. If you're carrying trauma, living with constant worry, or feeling stuck in patterns you can't seem to break, you're not alone and you don't have to navigate this by yourself. Many of my clients come to me feeling o...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who strongly believes in therapeutic rapport with my clients. I have experience working in multiple different settings that has enhanced my understanding of the uniqueness of every client. I have worked with individuals presenting with multiple different concer...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I have had the privilege of walking alongside couples and families through some of their most difficult seasons, helping marriages rebuild trust, communication, and emotional connection after deep hurt and trauma. Over the years, I have supported children recovering from the effects of trauma and se...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I’m Mike Bruckner, an LCSW providing compassionate telehealth services to individuals all across Pennsylvania. I believe that no matter where you are in your life’s journey—whether you are 10 or 100 years old—your story matters, and you do not have to carry its heaviest pieces alone. From the co...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” — Carl Rogers I believe so many of us already have the capacity to become our best selves, but something gets in the way. Past experiences, anxiety, patterns we’ve learned, or ways we’ve had to cope that no longer s...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I really enjoy talking about life in general and I hope to bring that to the therapy. I look at sessions like a conversation about psychology while providing structure to achieve goals. I hope that makes it interesting while remaining focused on you as an individual. I think life is very much about ...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Oct 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I am Lindsey (she/her) and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for all people on their journey. My goal is to meet clients where they are at, helping to create a collaborative relationship that empowers my clients in their he...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I focus on individuals, couples, and families looking for support, guidance, and healing in a variety of areas. I specialize in oncology, palliative and end-of-life care; treating grief, bereavement, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, chronic illness, pain management, relationship issues and...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I started this career after raising my children so I have the advantage of wisdom. Life has not always been kind to me but this allows me to relate to so many clients. I have been through much adversity and I feel the most fulfilled when I am helping others. I am kind, non judgmental, and follow Car...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi! My name is Jessica and I am a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania with a Masters Degree in Social Work and Clinical Social Work License in Pennsylvania. I have worked in trauma, medical social work, adoption, crisis intervention, and as a therapist specializing in depression, anxiety, and...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist
0.5 mi · 1845 Walnut St, #1350, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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LifeStance Health therapist Paul Williams helps teens, adults, and older adults build practical skills to navigate emotional challenges, strengthen relationships, and improve overall well-being. Serving patients throughout Pennsylvania, he provides individual therapy, couples therapy, and family the...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
You deserve to be the best functioning version of you. Navigate the journey to courage while feeling empowered and supported working through animal assisted psychotherapy, play therapy, and expressive art therapy. I also provide ADHD and executive function coaching, ADHD assessment. Special interest...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Trauma Professional based in New Jersey. I received my Master's from Rutgers University and have been practicing for 6 years. I enjoy helping adolescents and adults, particularly those aged 13 and above. I treat a variety of issues, including bu...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
With over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I am passionate about supporting adults and couples as they navigate life's transitions and pursue meaningful growth. Whether you are a college student or recent graduate adjusting to a new season of life, an individual facing anxiety or d...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Take a deep breath...You've just taken the first step on your path towards better mental health. It would be my honor to be the therapist who walks and supports you through this journey. I know that up to this point, you've done your best with what you knew and the tools you had, but they aren't hel...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I believe in meeting people where they are, perpetuating meaningful and supportive connection. My specialty includes working with individuals/families that have experienced emotional and physical abandonment and/or are healing from narcissistic abuse in either parental/romantic/sibling relationships...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.95
·19 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Welcome to my page! I am glad that you are here! This means you want something better for your life, and that is an AMAZING first step to take! Maybe you struggle with fears or regrets that are weighing you down, keeping you from living the life you want live? Maybe you feel alone in this world and ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Pennsylvania, as well as a Nationally Certified Counselor. I bring the variety of experiences that over 18 years of working in the mental health field offers. I have experience working with individuals of all ages as well as families to address a wide ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.97
·15 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 47 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
With close to 20 years of experience working for the Philadelphia Courts system and a background in communications prior to obtaining my Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Holy Family University, I excel at finding communicable common ground between individuals. I incorporate multiple treatment ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.97
·36 reviews
First session went great with a genuine connection. Could not ask for a better start to trying to better myself. - Nov 18, 2023 by Kevin M.Click to read more
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi, I am Jackie If you are taking the time to read my profile that means that you have made the decision to get some support for yourself or someone you love. Pat yourself on the back, taking the first step is the most difficult and you have just done that. I have been a social worker for 25 years...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Oct 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.89
·9 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi, I'm Samantha! I specialize in working with adolescents, families and also support adults navigating a wide range of life challenges. With a background spanning multiple levels of behavioral health care - from intake through discharge - I bring a well-rounded understanding of what meaningful supp...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.73
·56 reviews
Dr. Becton is caring and compassionate. Listened and helped created a plan to address my concerns. Feel heard for the 1st time. - May 11, 2023 by Joanne M.Click to read more
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I am Dr. Leslie Becton, Founder and Lead Counselor/Consultant for Murrell Community Counseling Services (MCCS) LLC. MCCS provides a wide variety of mental and behavioral health counseling and consulting services, including support for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and relationship issues, ser...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·18 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I am an autistic therapist, which is important to mention as my communication style may differ from what you are accustomed to. I am very direct and honest, and my guidance is grounded in research and the lived experiences of other clients. My therapeutic approach is centered on helping you define y...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Oct 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.86
·7 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 57 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in depression + 1 more ·
Read bio
Hello. I am a licensed clinical social worker who loves life and working with others. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Marywood University. I have had my struggles in life, and after seeking and receiving help, I fell in love with the idea of making a difference by challenging and supporting...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
As a therapist, I specialize in helping clients manage anxiety and stress by using evidence-based practices that support personal growth. I take a person-centered approach, tailoring treatment to meet each client's unique needs. This includes using therapeutic methods like CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.73
·11 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hello! My name is Ashley Harlan, and I am a licensed professional counselor and certified advanced alcohol and drug counselor specializing in working with adolescents and young adults who have experienced trauma, substance use, life stressors and transitions, depression, and anxiety. I earned my Mas...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.96
·27 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Everything is energy, and energy connects everything. Our practice combines mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, meditation, and eclectic stress reduction techniques to bring clarity and meaning to your environment. We teach you to be intentional with your thoughts, harness the power of breath, crea...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.85
·20 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Stephen. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help people manage anxiety and depression. Together, we can identify what's not working and get ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Do you feel as though you are living in a constant state of unhappiness-waking each day feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or disconnected from joy? Perhaps you find yourself functioning on the outside while struggling internally, unsure of how to break free from stress, anxiety, unresolved...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.80
·5 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Is your family planning journey not going as you and your partner had imagined? Are you experiencing infertility or grief over a pregnancy loss or failed treatment cycle? Is there added stress in your relationship right now? Are you literally going to scream if one more person says something unsuppo...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with ten years of experience in individual and group counseling in settings ranging from inpatient rehab to outpatient group and individual therapy. I love what I do and consider it a privilege to work with people who are trying to be their best selves. My co...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.71
·7 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 50 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi! I am a compassionate and dedicated professional with a dual role as a Licensed Therapist in Pennsylvania and a High School Counselor. With a combination of my 11 years of experience in this field and my personal experiences together they have fueled my commitment to providing holistic support fo...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.76
·34 reviews
He was easy to talk to and open to all my issues and understanding. He decided I n what issues to work on first and handle in order I was happy because the issues to me were all overwhelmingClick to read more
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi. I'm Bill. I'm currently accepting new clients for online sessions only. I work with adults experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, depressed mood, loss and grief, identity and self-concept difficulties, relationship problems, life-transition difficulties, and traumatic memories. I hold a Maste...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.97
·40 reviews
Dr Peters was very easy to talk to openly and listened to what I had to say.Click to read more
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Let me introduce myself. My name is Bradley Peters. I am a transplanted Canadian who has been living in Pennsylvania since 2001, just before 9/11. I hold a Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University and have been a therapeutic specialist in the field for over 17 years. Reachin...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi, I'm Wendy. Do you find yourself wondering if your relationship is healthy? Do you feel overwhelmed by daily tasks and have trouble remembering the last time things felt 'normal?' Together, we'll explore the challenges that have gotten in the way of you living your best quality of life and gettin...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Tired of reading bios? I would be too, so I'll keep it short: I graduated from UPenn 10+ years ago with a Master's in Social Work. I have experience working in almost every setting you could imagine. I specialize in making people feel comfortable, safe, and validated. I specialize in treating my cli...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Calendar Check
1-3 days

Average time it takes to be seen by a provider

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Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

Primary Care Physician
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In the business of finding quality care for patients

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Frequently asked questions

How many Psychologists are available in Philadelphia?

There are currently 44 Psychologists in Philadelphia available for booking on Zocdoc. Filter by insurance, language, or appointment time to find your best match.


Are there Psychologists in Philadelphia accepting new patients?

Yes. 39 Psychologists in Philadelphia are accepting new patients right now. Many offer appointments within the next few days.


Which insurance carriers are most accepted by Psychologists in Philadelphia?

Among psychologists in Philadelphia:

  • 90.2% accept Aetna
  • 70.7% accept UnitedHealthcare
  • 65% accept Cigna
Filter by insurance to see which providers take your plan.


How can I make a same-day appointment with a Psychologist in Philadelphia?

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


How can I find a Philadelphia Psychologist who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Philadelphia Psychologist who takes 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 Psychologist in Philadelphia?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Psychologists in Philadelphia and book appointments instantly. You can search for Philadelphia Psychologists by symptom or visit reason. Then, 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 Psychologist in Philadelphia?

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


How can I find a Philadelphia Psychologist who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Philadelphia Psychologists with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Psychologist in Philadelphia?

You can use Zocdoc to find Psychologists in Philadelphia 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 Psychologist online in Philadelphia?

Psychologists in Philadelphia 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 Psychologists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Psychologist 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 Psychologists in Philadelphia 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 Psychologist in Philadelphia who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Psychologist 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 Psychologist in Philadelphia who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Psychologists in Philadelphia. Many Psychologists offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


All numbers and provider counts reflect Zocdoc data as of December 2025

Mental health and its importance


We live in a time when everyone around us is moving or reaching for something. Nobody has the time to take a moment and reflect on their mind or health. While physiological illness might still get some attention if it's bothersome enough, mental health rarely becomes the topic of concern until it takes a toll on daily life.


Our emotions, feelings, and personalities make us human, and reacting to our environment is expected. What is abnormal is when we seem to lose control over our reactions or stop behaving reasonably in the situations around us. Being sad when something negative happens is a normal reaction, but living in a constant state of despair without any reasonable explanation can be a sign of depression.


Mental health has become the point of discussion for quite some time now as it's affecting more and more people and goes untreated by most. One of the factors that stops people from getting the treatment they need is the stigma around mental illness. It is vital to educate people about mental health and ensure that it receives as much attention as our physical health.


Often, mental health conditions are recognized at later stages and ignored or go undetected at early stages. Some of the warning signs in the early stages can be:

  • If you're eating too little or too much
  • If you're secluding yourself from others
  • Low on energy
  • Feeling hopeless
  • Experiencing severe mood swings
  • Self-harming thoughts
  • Repetitive thoughts that are consistent and uncontrolled


If you are experiencing any one or multiple signs from the above, you should get help from a professional immediately or reach out to your friends and family, who can connect you to a professional.


Mental illness has a ripple effect on the person and the community. Not only physiological implications, but the productivity of an individual also suffers due to mental illness.

The rate of unemployment is higher in people with mental illness as compared to those who don't have such issues. High school students with significant symptoms of depression are more likely to drop out than their peers.


With all these facts, it is clear that mental health is more important than it appears on the surface, and overlooking or ignoring its advances would only push the world towards a more dangerous outcome.


Therefore, it is essential to contact a professional whenever discomfort or a persistent feeling is uncontrollable.


Education and training of psychologists


Psychologists have the license to treat patients with mental disorders through therapies and counseling. Becoming a psychologist takes a lot of schooling and training. First, you must earn your bachelor's degree, which can take about 4 to 6 years. Then, you'll go to graduate school, where you'll learn more about psychology through classes, research, and sometimes teaching. A psychologist practicing in the U.S. would have a degree in Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D).


Before graduation, aspirants must also complete a supervised internship for a year. You might need extra supervised practice time, depending on where you want to work. Psychologists must also clear specific exams to earn their licensure.


It is essential to seek professional help for mental disorders and reach out in the early stages. Going without treatments for long only worsens the condition and leads to dangerous results, which can harm both the person suffering and the people around them.


Different types of psychologists


A few of the subfields in psychology include the following:


  • Cognitive and perceptual psychologists

Cognitive and perceptual psychologists study human thinking, memory, and perception. For instance, how humans produce and understand language and how the mind sees or defines reality. These psychologists collaborate with behavioral neuroscientists to study the biological fundamentals of cognition or perception. They also work with researchers to understand cognitive bias among people suffering from depression. 


  • Clinical psychologists

Clinical psychologists focus on managing and treating mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders. These could include chronic conditions like schizophrenia as well as short-term problems like difficulties due to adolescent conflicts. Clinical psychologists may work with a particular set of people like couples, youths, families, transgender people, ethnic minority groups, and so on. Or, they may choose to focus on a specific problem like clinical depression or phobias. 


  • Counseling psychologists

Counseling psychologists help people identify their inner resources and strengths to cope with or manage serious adversity and daily problems. They conduct teaching, scientific research, psychotherapy, or counseling sessions with people of all ages, organizations (hospitals, schools, businesses), and families. Counseling psychologists help people understand their behaviors and how it affects their quality of life and environment.


  • Forensic psychologists

Forensic psychologists apply the principles of psychology for legal purposes. Their expertise is most useful in the judicial system. They can analyze the defendant's mental ability to face a trial and help the judge give the proper judgment. They can even help decide the custody of a child in divorce cases. Forensic psychologists also research eyewitness testimony and jury behavior. Some forensic psychologists may receive training in both law and psychology to serve the judicial system.


  • Developmental psychologists

Developmental psychologists focus on the psychological development of human beings throughout their lifespans. Earlier, they mainly focused on the formative years of childhood and adolescence. However, as life expectancy improved beyond 80 years, developmental psychologists began focusing on the behavioral, mental, and physical aspects of aging. They help older adults lead independent lives as much as possible. 


  • Health psychologists

Health psychologists focus on how psychological, social, and biological factors affect human health and illness. They study why some patients don't follow medical advice and how some handle their mental state during an illness. It helps them develop effective ways to change poor habits and manage chronic pain in patients. They develop treatment plans to promote physical and emotional well-being.


What is the difference between psychiatrists, counselors, and psychologists?


A psychiatrist is a certified doctor and can diagnose and treat mental health problems. They are qualified to prescribe medications and other medical treatments. Psychiatrists often handle more complex mental health problems that might need medication or medical care. 


On the other hand, a psychologist has a doctorate and usually focuses on research or therapy. They treat mental health issues using talk therapy but can't prescribe medications. 


A counselor, sometimes called a therapist, has a master's degree in mental health fields like psychology or family therapy. They can assess mental health and use treatment modalities such as talk therapy.


Why should you consult a psychologist near you?


According to the American Psychological Association, psychology studies human behavior. Psychologists practice psychology; they identify factors that affect mental health and treat the conditions.


While reaching out to family and friends is helpful and can provide temporary relief, getting professional help can only help you understand the reasons and help you gain control over it.


What should one expect during the first visit to a psychologist?


Your psychologist will start the first session by asking a few questions. They may enquire about your personal history, the reason for your visit, when your problem first started, what makes it better or worse, and your relationship with drugs and alcohol. It might take a few sessions to cover everything.


Your psychologist might request tests to understand your mood, personality, or memory. These tests help comprehend the root cause of the problem and achieve an accurate diagnosis.


Once they understand your situation, your psychologist will work with you to develop a treatment plan incorporating proven, research-based techniques. This plan could involve different types of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, or systems therapy.


Find a psychologist near you in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania


While getting treated is essential, we also understand that people with mental health issues find it very hard to reach out to people or trust people with their conditions. Traveling long distances for consultation and hassles in getting an appointment can make one reluctant to get the help they need.


Zocdoc will place several specialists near you who can consult and provide an easy way to book appointments without leaving your home at any cost. Zocdoc has an algorithm that will give you all the information you'll require to book an appointment with a specialist, like their credentials, educational background, and experience in the field. You can also read verified reviews and ratings by past patients the doctor has treated to help you make an informed decision.


If you want to find a provider who accepts your insurance, add your insurance information (your insurance provider and plan) on the Zocdoc search. It will help you find in-network psychologists. Check out Zocdoc's patient help center for more information and solutions related to insurance. 


Moreover, you can book online or video consultations without traveling to their clinic or location. Just look for a purple icon on the profiles of psychologists who allow such online consultations. Depending on the psychologist's availability, you can book appointments before, during, or after office hours. You can also book appointments on weekends and holidays if your schedule permits.

Booking appointments with psychologists near you through Zocdoc is safe, quick, and free!


Mental health in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 


In the U.S. alone, 52.9 million people have experienced mental illness of some kind. Depression and anxiety disorder cost the global economy about $1 trillion in loss of productivity each year. It is the leading cause of disability around the world. Per the National Alliance on Mental Illness, those with depression have a much higher risk (≈40%) of developing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases than a person with positive mental health.


According to the Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC), within Philadelphia, more than 17% of adults have been diagnosed with a mental health condition. Additionally, there are several cases of drug overdose deaths that are constantly increasing the number of premature deaths in the age group 15-44 years.


Along with this, according to a 2015 survey conducted by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, 46% of adults in Philadelphia reported poor mental health during at least one day within the past month.


According to Philadelphia's Department of Public Health, drug-induced mortality and opioid-related mortality rates have been increasing in recent years. The figures mentioned above only suggest that the mental health landscape in Philadelphia is of concern, and one should address it immediately to stop the conditions from worsening.


Along with educating people, it is vital to provide helplines to people so they can reach out in times of need. Encouraging everyone to talk about mental health openly is also helpful.


Sources


National Alliance on Mental Health

Verywell Mind

American Psychological Association[1]

American Psychological Association[2]

Public Health Management Corporation

WebMD

Cleveland Clinic


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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