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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 08/06/2026
Availability last updated 08/06/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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The provider is a “Licensed Professional Counselor" and their license number is 37PC00457300. I am an individual who strives to show compassion and understanding for each client. I have worked with a variety of clients including military veterans, Traumatic Brain Injury issues and Life Transitions....Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Great first impression, straight to the point, goals for therapy are implemented. Tremendous session. - Oct 28, 2023 by Kane B.Click to read more
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I work with individuals and families ages 6-80+ and is licensed to provide services in Texas, Florida, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Indiana. (Clients must be located in one of these states at the time of each session.) I also serve as a Clinical Supervisor for Master’s-level interns working toward li...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Im Ben Northrup, a licensed professional counselor with a passion for helping individuals navigate lifes challenges with strength and selfcompassion. I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy DBT, psychosis treatment, helping family members of individuals with symptoms of psychosis, and support f...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.86
·7 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there! My name is Dr. Gina Kilderry. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey. I hold both a Master’s degree and a Doctorate (PsyD) in Counseling Psychology. I have worked with adults with varying concerns for 6 years in the Greater Philadelphia area....Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Aug 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.00
·3 reviews
She was friendly, but I feel like I didn’t get much out of our session. I was really excited to talk to someone else who was adopted and talk to someone who may have more insight as a therapist and adoptee on adoptee issues and traumas, but it felt more like just swapping stories and learning about ...Click to read more
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 57 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker (LSCW) in Pennsylvania. I have been working in Outpatient Mental Health Therapy for 9 years. My focus is on helping people work through difficult events that have occured in their life and helping them move through the healing process. I am certified in ...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.00
·1 review
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I graduated 21 years ago with a master's degree in counseling. Since graduation, I have traveled to Europe, South America and Asia, became certified as an English as a Foreign Language EFL Teacher and earned my licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor LPC. With my diverse experience and traini...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been in the field since 2008. I wholeheartedly believe that every person can recover from any challenge if they have the right support. For my clients, I try to be that right support. My approach is person-centered, embracing you for who you are and ...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.84
·32 reviews
Had a great session with Dr. Grenn. Felt good to be able to talk about things that I’ve been going through without feeling judged, and to also be met with solution oriented feedback. - Jun 28, 2025 by Caleb D.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
I have been working with individuals struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use, sexual addiction, and mental health challenges for the past ten years. I have a real heart to walk alongside you to encourage, support, and empower you to move forward in your recovery needs. I gradua...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi I am Clarissa Hummel Clare, LPC. After graduating with my Bachelors degree, I had the opportunity to work in multiple community settings as a caseworker. Through this work, I realized my desire to be able to work with people in reaching personal goals through talk therapy. I graduated from Villan...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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As a licensed therapist in Pennsylvania, I bring 16 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals, couples and families through complex life challenges. I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I am passionate about supporting individuals, co...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hello! I am a school counselor and licensed professional counselor with over 16 years of experience working with elementary, middle school, high school, and post-secondary aged children and young adults. In recent years, I have branched into therapy work as a part-time job in addition to my day job ...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.67
·3 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Jana Allen, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 24 years of experience helping individuals and families navigating life's challenges. My approach in working with adolescents and adults integrates faith with evidence-based therapeutic practices for clients who desire a spiritually ...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a therapist of over 20 years of experience supporting individuals, couples and families through a wide range of challenges. My work is grounded in compassion, practical insight and a deep respect for each person's individual story. My experience is shaped not only by my professional training, b...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I knowledge the courage required in seeking help and I applaud your decision to connect with Grow Therapy! It is exciting to begin the journey with you toward greater well-being. Because I believe in the power of experience, I am especially helpful in working with clients who are ready to take actio...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master's in Clinical Social Work from Temple University and 13 years of experience, I have found the most valuable aspect of therapy to be a strong therapeutic relationship. I believe in honoring your expertise in your own life and see my role as a compass...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Aug 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I’m Grace Rummel, LCSW and I own Little Steps Counseling, LLC. I have over five years of experience in counseling, including the past three years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, and I’m passionate about supporting individuals through life’s ch...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Aug 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi, I'm Amanda, a therapist committed to helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges with compassion and practical tools. With experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and sex therapy, I take a personalized approach to support your growth and healing. I believe in the p...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I'm a licensed addictions therapist specializing in substance abuse and food addiction. I also work with patients experiencing anxiety, depression, and co-occurring disorders. I have worked in the mental health field for over 20 years and hold a Master's in Counselling from Lincoln University. I loo...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·17 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: Mon, Aug 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I’m a trauma-informed therapist who believes healing happens in safe, honest relationships. I show up as a real person in the room, warm, grounded, and direct; while creating a space where you can exhale and be fully yourself. I see symptoms as meaningful responses to life experiences, not flaws to ...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 57 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Welcome! My name is Renee Cavalier. I hold a Master's in Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh and have been in practice for 19 years, including 14 years in private practice. In addition, I have experience in community mental health, behavioral health rehabilitative services (restructured as...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a telehealth practice licensed in Pennsylvania and Virginia, and over 23 years of experience in the mental health field working with children, teen and adults. . I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship stress, and life transitions, ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Rosie Davis Aubrey, and I am a PA Licensed Dance/Movement Therapist with a Master's degree in Counseling and Dance Movement Therapy from Drexel University. I utilize Christian Counseling and an eclectic approach, combining talk therapy with somatic and holistic practices. I have experienc...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Omarpreet! My name is Omarpreet Kaur, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in Pennsylvania and Delaware. I hold a Master's degree in Psychology from Panjab University, a diploma from Punjabi University, Patiala, and certificates from La Salle University and Arc...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I have experience as a clinician in mental health, corrections, and substance abuse facilities. I specialize in working with individuals with Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, bipolar, and Substance Abuse. My background includes experience as a clinician in a mental health facility, as well as in ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Family Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm MERCEDES! I offer virtual consultations providing compassionate and individualized care to help you thrive in your health. I am deeply committed to supporting the field of nursing and founded an organization that has grown to include over 100 practitioners. My focus I serve individual...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am an LCSW licensed to practice in PA (CW017210) with 25 years of experience. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Temple University. My approach to therapy is meeting you where you are and forming a therapeutic alliance. While my focus areas are not limited, I often work with anxiety and depr...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Jennifer! I hold the strong belief that people are perfectly imperfect and that each individual is beautiful and spectacular but can also become stuck, unhappy, and unable to live a fulfilling life. That’s where I come in. My experience allows me to understand the best ways to addres...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
There is nothing I could say for how much I appropriate her. Wonderful provider, listener and helper. - Aug 3, 2026 by mathew M.Click to read more
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing virtual care to teens and adults across Pennsylvania. If anxiety, depression, sleep difficulties, or mood changes are interfering with your life, you’re not alone. Let’s work on this together.Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 19 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Philadelphia. I work with teens and adults and specialize in dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, and life transitions. I do this by using person-centered therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. My approach M...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.67
·6 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 26 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi there, I'm Michelle! My name is Michele Cotter, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pennsylvania. I hold a Master's in Counseling Psychology from Lesley University and a Bachelor's degree from Salem State University. I work with clients of all ages statewide via telehealth....Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Kimberly! My name is Kimberly Portanova. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with 15 years of experience. I earned my Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Walden University and my Bachelor’s degree from Ohio University. I believe each client knows themself best and that...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.20
·5 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 27 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Andrew! Hi! My name is Drew Krantz, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in the Harrisburg, PA area, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I specialize in "helping the helpers"—those experiencing secondary traumatic stress, burnout, and work-related stress....Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Abigail! Hello, I am Abby, an experienced and empathic marriage and family therapist who provides services to individuals, couples, and families for issues including relationship struggles, depression, parent/child difficulties, co-parenting challenges, ADHD, and PTSD. I hold a Master...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 19 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
With over 25 years of experience in mental health care, I bring a deep and compassionate understanding to the therapeutic space. My work has spanned outpatient, inpatient, and community-based settings, allowing me to support individuals and families across a wide range of challenges and life stages....Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Shonda! My name is Shonda Sessoms. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor for over 10 years, licensed in MS, AZ, WI, and PA. I earned my PhD in Mental Health Counseling and my MEd in Counselor Education and Guidance Services from Mississippi College. I have experience working w...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Karen! Good day. I'm Karen Conner-Wilson, LCSW, with a Master's in Social Work from Fordham University. Learning how to cope with change can be difficult. Are there times when you feel as if friends and family misunderstand you? Do you find yourself struggling with change, making it h...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Dear Future Client, I am Abi Watterson, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience offering solution-focused and narrative therapy counseling, consulting, and coaching. My specializations include LGBTQIQA+, substance use disorder concerns, and religion and spirituality. My...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Lesli! Lesli Harper, Licensed Professional Counselor. I hold a Master's in Clinical Counseling Psychology from LaSalle University. I support people in returning to wholeness. That means finding your purpose, successfully navigating transitions, moving out of depression and anxiety, de...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
Family Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
3.86
·21 reviews
Rebecca was wonderful but she was not able to prescribe me with the medication I have been taking for 5 years and let me know I would need to see a doctor in person (which I never had to do before). Recommend checking this beforehand if you can to save yourself some time - Nov 13, 2024 by Nicole D.Click to read more
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in anxiety disorders
Next available: Mon, Aug 10
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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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