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315 verified Psychologists in Philadelphia, PA
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Availability last updated 07/17/2026
Availability last updated 07/17/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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As a working professional myself, I know how difficult it can be to find a physical or mental health provider that works "after hours." I aim to meet you where you are, and sometimes that means after work, after class, or after the kids are in bed! I offer sessions from 6:00pm to 10:00pm in order to...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I'm Gioia (Sounds like "Joya"), and welcome. It may have taken courage to find yourself here, so well done, you. I am a Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who is flexible, affirming and joyful. I seek to find the potential in all things - even the ha...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm Morgan! I am passionate about supporting children, adolescents, and young adults (as well as their families) as they navigate life's uncertainties. Throughout my career, I have worked with foster care placements (including biological and foster family units), school based therapy settings, outpa...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, and clinically grounded environment for individuals and families navigating life's most difficult challenges. Since earning my Master's Degree in Social Work in 2004, I have spent over 15 years helping people mo...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Dr. Arnold Tilden and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. Early on, we will set goals for our counseling and regularly check our progress. We work as partners in reaching our goals. My approach, although eclectic, is influenced by Albert Ellis and his Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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My work is informed by real-life experiences, which allows me to approach therapy with authenticity, compassion, and genuine understanding. My approach is rooted in empathy and collaboration, creating a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and patterns at a ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello! I have been a licensed professional counselor for over 15 years and I specialize in assisting those who have experienced or are currently experiencing toxic or abusive relationships. I also work with teens and adults who are experiencing difficult issues including life transitions, anxiety, t...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My therapy and coaching are grounded in developing listening skills, improving emotional intelligence, working with family systems to improve effectiveness, and enhancing communication at all levels of the system. My background in clinical Social Work allows me to work with clients holistically, ass...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I'm Lyndsey. I'm so glad you’re here :). I have been a counselor for 13 years. I'm passionate about working with individuals who are experiencing relationship issues and neurodivergent (autism, ADHD etc.) adults and adolescents. I also work with individuals who are struggling with depression, an...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I have a lot of experience helping people with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship, and extensional issues. I am a caring, empathetic, and person-centered clinician with many years of experience in the mental health field. No matter what you are struggling with, my evidence based approaches wi...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Bachelor's degree in Integrative Studies from Arizona State University, and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Messiah University. In addition to clinical training and experience, I bring more than 15 years of experi...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 19
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor working with teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, adjustment challenges, and addiction. I take a direct but supportive approach, helping you understand your negative patterns, develop practical coping skills, and build enduring confidence. Through te...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, I'm Dr. Kim Morgan. I have a Doctorate in Psychology with a Specialization in Addiction. I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Pennsylvania. I have over 20 years of experience in the behavioral health field, with a career that began working with youth in the juvenile jus...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I’m a dedicated mental health professional with over 10 years of experience in the helping professions, driven by a deep passion for supporting people in creating meaningful, lasting change. I specialize in treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) using Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), an...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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You might be here because life feels heavier than it should, your thoughts won’t slow down, or you’re tired of trying to hold everything together on your own. As a licensed therapist in Pennsylvania, I work with people who are navigating stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-doubt, and the everyda...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello and Welcome! My name is Danielle and I am a licensed LPC with over twenty years of experience working in clinical, school and home settings. I recognize the increasing complexity of modern life. With each year we accumulate more experiences both positive and negative that we are expected to pr...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Welcome, it is great to have you here! My name is Marielle and I have been in the social work field for 5+ years working with individuals with disabilities, at-risk youth, and individuals experiencing food insecurity. My specialties within a therapy setting include working with individuals with chro...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.89
·9 reviews
Was very helpful and understanding! - Jul 17, 2023 by Trisstian P.Click to read more
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Hello! My name is Dr. Tomlin, and I am a licensed and nationally certified professional counselor and traumatologist. I hold an MSEd in School and Mental Health Counseling from the University of Pennsylvania. I specialize in various modalities, including strength-based coaching, existentialism, mult...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am a Professional Licensed Counselor (LPC) with many years of experience working with adolescents, teens, and young adults. I have worked as a contracted mental health therapist in the public school system for the past 7 years. Before that, I worked at a non-profit counseling center helping single...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 50 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I’m a firm believer that we are all carriers of deep, complex life stories. These stories build and shape our inner worlds and can be both elevating and/or burdensome to us. They build our reality and how we place ourselves within it. As a licensed clinical social worker, my work focuses on helping ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am here to walk with you through your unique journey. My focus is on providing each client with individualized care in a private comfortable setting. The decision to start therapy can be difficult, I am here to make therapy a positive and helpful experience. I can help guide you through a variety ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
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
Philadelphia, PA
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 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·10 reviews
A lot of help - Sep 3, 2025 by Stephanie R.Click to read more
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I work with individuals to tend to spiritual, emotional, and psychological wounds caused by oppression, trauma, harm, abuse, and early experiences. It takes immense courage to seek help, recognize patterns, break cycles, and try something new. I am committed to compassionate support, deep listening,...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.79
·38 reviews
I can’t stress enough how much Saluna has helped me after only a few sessions. Saluna has showed me that there is a silver lining in the very dark clouds, and has made me very hopeful to tackle my mental health. She has given me exercises and prompts that feel natural, not forced, which has always m...Click to read more
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi, my name is Saluna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving Pennsylvania clients. I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress management, family issues, relationship issues, life transitions, bipolar disorder, insomnia & sleep issues, trauma, and OCD. I’ve been in nu...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 22 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Ms. Krista Hahn is a licensed psychotherapist who practices at ReachLink. She offers compassionate mental health support through convenient virtual consultations. Ms. Hahn believes in listening to each individual and building a partnership to maintain and improve lifelong health. She helps client...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jul 21
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.50
·2 reviews
Very knowledgeable on everything! Very nice and comfortable to talk with I feel like we really connected! I will definitely be making another appointment! - May 6, 2025 by Elisa B.Click to read more
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time
Next available: Tue, Jul 21
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 19 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Mr. Michael Shea is a highly skilled psychotherapist practicing with ReachLink, where he offers virtual mental health services. He earned his master's degree in social work from West Virginia University, which equipped him with the expertise to address diverse mental health concerns. As a skilled pr...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jul 21
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.98
·41 reviews
Easy to schedule, easy to talk to and lots of choices - Nov 26, 2025 by George A.Click to read more
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Ms. Maria Koter is a well-established psychotherapist and a valued member of ReachLink in Hartstown, PA. She earned her master's degree in social work from West Virginia University. Ms. Koter is deeply committed to the well-being of her patients, taking a thorough and precise approach to her consu...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jul 21
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.97
·30 reviews
Dr Moudy was personable and creating an environment that was truly judgement free !! - May 19, 2025 by Malaika C.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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Hi, I'm Moudy. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pittsburgh, PA. I earned my Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Duquesne University and have been practicing for 3 years since graduation. I am here to help adults who struggle to find peace and contentment in their lives due ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Amanda Kriger, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, earned in 2016. I've been providing therapy services since then and obtained my LPC license in 2022. My experience includes working with adults facing substance use ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.75
·12 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and a practicing clinician with nearly 30 years of counseling experience. I earned my Master's in Clinical Counseling from La Salle University.Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi! My name is Ron Lamb. I work with people of all ages to help them discover and be their best selves. I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, family, health, school, and work issues. I also have experience working with clients struggling with addiction and in recov...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.50
·2 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi! I'm a African American provider in PA. I have a LPC and CAADC. I have been practicing for 20 years, however in order to be a good teacher, you must be a good student. We will be on this journey together. I help people struggling with mental health disorders and challenges in life to become the b...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 59 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pennsylvania. I received my Masters from Philadelphia University and have been practicing for the past 9 years. I help people of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem and any other general life stresses. I am passionate abo...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·6 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hello, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania. I have been practicing for 10 years. My therapeutic approach has been to take a whole person treatment approach. My ability to partner with individuals and identify interventions that are useful to promote healing in their journey. It als...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello, and welcome. My name is Ayanna Gellineau, and I’m a trauma-focused therapist committed to helping individuals reconnect with themselves in safe, meaningful ways. I work from the belief that healing is possible when we feel seen, supported, and empowered to make sense of our stories — at our o...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Florida . I received my Masters from Walden University and have been practicing for 6 years. I help clients struggling with life stressors, past traumas and burnout become the best versions of themselves. I take on a collaborative approach so you, ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·14 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hello, and congratulations on taking the first step of your mental health journey! Looking for a therapist can feel overwhelming, so let me share what you can expect in sessions with me. I became a therapist to help others find healing and create a life they enjoy. My clients often describe our sess...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 50 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I’m a licensed counselor with nearly 15 years of experience supporting individuals through difficult challenges and individuals only needing more support for stressors. I specialize in trauma-informed care and am certified in EMDR and TF-CBT. My approach is warm, direct, and solution-focused. I help...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.88
·8 reviews
Philadelphia, PA
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi, I am so glad you are here! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years in the field with 8 of them being in therapy settings. I received my masters in social work from Rutgers University and obtained my clinical hours while working in Philadelphia doing case management for at risk ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 20
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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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