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315 verified Psychologists in Phoenix, AZ
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 05/21/2026
Availability last updated 05/21/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.89
·19 reviews
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, currently licensed in Arizona and South Dakota. I earned my Master's in Social Work from the University of Louisville. Over the last ten years, I have worked with a variety of men, women, and adolescents. My intent is always to meet people exactly where the...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, May 27
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·11 reviews
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 71 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 10+ years experience. I obtained a Masters in Social Work from The Ohio State University and specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy to treat symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, low self worth, past trauma and PTSD. Clients will gain new cop...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor located in Arizona. I earned my master’s degree from the University of Phoenix in Tucson and have spent the past 20 years working in various areas of the mental health field. My goal is to help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and borderline pe...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·13 reviews
She is super friendly and amazing at being open and accepting! - Oct 27, 2023 by Jaxson M.Click to read more
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 76 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I was born and raised in Puerto Rico and 25 years ago I moved to Florida where I currently reside. I graduated in 2005 from Florida International University with a Masters in Mental Health Counseling. At the present time, I hold 9 state licenses that allows me to to provide Tele-health couns...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, May 27
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Teenagers often arrive in therapy carrying things that no one at home or school knows how to name yet. I've spent years working alongside adolescents and their families in schools and community settings-and I bring that same depth to my work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, a...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, May 27
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.94
·16 reviews
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi, my name is Debbie! Do you ever feel like the light has gone out and you are navigating alone in the dark? Does life seem to have no meaning or purpose? Do you struggle to get out of bed? Has something happened in your life that has caused you to question yourself and everything around you? Fin...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Christine Hayes, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University, as well as an Expert Certified Laughter Leader. As a licensed therapist, I believe in empowering you as an individual and/or your family to be the best you ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 19 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a depth-oriented psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience working from psychodynamic perspective. My work helps clients explore unconscious patterns, relational dynamics, and the deeper meaning behind emotional challenges and life transitions. I have worked with individuals, children,...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 26
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm a warm, down-to-earth therapist who believes meaningful change happens when you feel safe, heard, and understood. My goal is to create a supportive space where you can show up as you are-without judgment. Whether you're feeling anxious, stuck in unhealthy patterns, or disconnected in your relati...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 28
Psychotherapist
9 mi · 4700 S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85282
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 33 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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Hi there, I'm William! Hi, I’m William Alkhoury, a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University. I specialize in helping clients work through anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, and questions of meaning. My approach is colla...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 28
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.96
·83 reviews
Provider was relatable. Easy to talk to. Had a sense of humor. Direct communicator. Showed compassion and “got me”. - Mar 12, 2025 by Barbara B.Click to read more
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am a bilingual and bicultural Licensed Mental Health Counselor licensed in Florida with over 15 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I earned my Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University. I have worked around the world—in Mexico, the US, Germany, Japan—and in a wide ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 28
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 70 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I create a safe and accepting space for you to be yourself, openly share your thoughts, feelings and challenges as well as your goals, hopes and dreams. Life is stressful and difficult to navigate your way through on your own, and I will be there for you unconditionally; to support you, to encoura...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 28
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm proud of you for seeking support and grateful you're considering working with me. I specialize in helping individuals and families from diverse backgrounds identify ways to improve themselves, their relationships, and their overall experience of life. I look forward to hearing from you so we can...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 28
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.86
·7 reviews
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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I graduated from the University of Gdansk, Poland, with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, and earned a Master's in Professional Counseling from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) authorized to provide independent counseling in Arizona, South Caro...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 28
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello! I'm Vicky Snyder, a Master's level Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 12 years of experience in the mental health field. I earned both my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. My passion is faith-based counseling, specializing in anxi...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 28
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.86
·28 reviews
Sondra is such a sweet person! I really enjoyed speaking with her. She makes you feel comfortable pretty quickly and is easy to talk to. I also felt like she really listened to me. Can’t wait to continue more sessions. - Oct 2, 2023 by Allyson J.Click to read more
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 18 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi, I'm Sondra! I hold a Master's in Social Work from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. My mission is to help individuals and families improve their lives through effective mental health counseling. My goal is to empower my clients and offer them skills that will help them overcome the challenges ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 28
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Welcome to True2U Counseling!​ I am Jessica Hauser, an independently licensed counselor (LPC) and clinical supervisor. I have been a counselor for 15 years. I believe that change is possible, and that therapy can be a very positive, healing, and rewarding experience for anyone. I work collaborativel...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 28
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over six years of experience working with children, adolescents and young adults. I am passionate about supporting young people as they navigate challenges, life transitions, and difficult seasons. My goal is to help my clients build the skills they need t...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.96
·45 reviews
She is very good at making what can be difficult feel very natural. Very easy to talk too and good at keeping the conversation consistent. 10/10 - Feb 22, 2022 by Dannielle H.Click to read more
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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If you are reading this right now, I am proud of you for considering therapy. I believe therapy can benefit everyone, whether you are working on healing or just want to learn more about yourself. It is an honor to hear your story, hold space for your pain, and guide you toward a brighter future. I p...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 28
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.67
·18 reviews
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 70 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, I am Lisa-Marie! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience providing whole person therapy to clients in need. I earned my Bachelor’s in Social Science from Aquinas College and my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Nebraska. Since then, I have worked...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.69
·13 reviews
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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The intention of services provided to present and future clients are to support them in navigating through the pain. The only way out is through. Not above, below, or around the pain but through it. The good news is you are not alone and don’t have to do it alone. Utilize the resources offered in th...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 28
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.91
·65 reviews
Wasn't sure what to expect but it was more productive than Id hoped and feel really good about sufficient treatmentClick to read more
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 78 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 13 years of experience working as a clinician, therapist, and crisis interventionist. I have worked with clients facing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, substance use problems, psychosis, and ADHD. I have also helpe...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 28
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 21 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensed in both Arizona and Colorado. I earned my Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University in Sarasota. For more than 8 years, I have worked with young adults and adults experiencing mood disorders, chemical and behavioral addic...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Jennifer and I've been a therapist for 15 years. I specialize in working with relationship and family issues, parenting, narcissistic abuse recovery, codependency, trauma, and complex PTSD. As a veteran with 15 years of military service I have a special passion for working with active m...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 28
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi! I’m Christina Randle, LSCSW, based in Louisiana and practicing in AZ and KS. I received my Master's in Social Work from Wichita State University. I am currently working towards a Doctorate in Psychology. I have over 18 years of experience working with a diverse group of individuals to help them ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 28
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 19 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm Arturo, and I'm truly honored you're here. My journey from 24 years of service in the United States Marine Corps-including multiple deployments and combat tours-to becoming a therapist has shaped the heart of my work: resilience, compassion, and a deep respect for the strength it takes to seek s...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 28
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm a licensed therapist who combines straight talk, deep empathy, and a bit of humor to help people untangle the patterns that keep them stuck and build lives that actually fit them. I work collaboratively and experientially pulling from CBT, DBT, and narrative approaches to help you make sense of ...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I am a seasoned, supportive, and well-experienced licensed mental health therapist, having worked in private practice for many years in Arizona. I am an expert listener and enjoy working with adults aged 18 and older who are experiencing difficult symptoms related to past or present life challenges....Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 29
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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As a licensed therapist in Texas, I bring 25 years of compassionate experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on creating a welcoming, affirming space for clients navigating diverse experiences, including stress, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and LGBTQ+ con...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jun 4
Psychiatrist
4.50
·22 reviews
Very good provider. She’s rare. You are lucky, you can get a good one like her. - Feb 11, 2023 by Snaha P.Click to read more
9.5 mi · 4383 N 75th St, Ste 101, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 11 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time · Expertise in anxiety disorders ·
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Dr. Samar Jasser is board-certified in adult psychiatry and has more than 10 years of experience utilizing medication management and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Dr. Jasser works to trace current and presenting symptoms to their origin, while understanding the role and effect of past tre...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 26
Psychotherapist
8.5 mi · 64 E Broadway Rd, Tempe, AZ 85282
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Viola Burt is a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience supporting individuals through trauma, grief, and life transitions. She is passionate about creating a safe and compassionate therapeutic space where clients can explore their experiences and build resilience. Viola integrates...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Jun 6
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 72 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello and welcome to my page. My name is Yevgeniy (Eugene) Slutskiy and I am a Mental Health Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor in the following states: Arizona, Colorado, Minnesota, and Utah. I have been working in the mental health field for close to 20 years. I am passionate about help...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, May 30
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·12 reviews
- Dec 13, 2024 by Zachary H.Click to read more
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hello! I am a licensed professional counselor based in Arizona, with a Master's in Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles and concerns related to their situation. I focus on helping...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, May 30
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I’m a Bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience supporting people through life’s most challenging and meaningful moments. I work with individuals navigating postpartum changes, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, cultural identity, and women’s issues. My g...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, May 30
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi, I'm Justin, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience supporting adults with anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, and relationship stress. My approach is compassionate, structured, and grounded in evidence-based treatment, including EMDR, CBT, and DBT-informed skills...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, May 30
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I'm a warm, down-to-earth therapist who believes that feeling safe, understood, and genuinely supported is the foundation for meaningful change. With over 15 years of experience across schools, hospitals, crisis settings, and community-based care, I've had the privilege of working with people at man...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, May 31
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Sun, May 31
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi, I’m Ileah-Mare Smith-Allen. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and Life Coach who loves helping people navigate life’s ups and downs with greater clarity and confidence. I take a collaborative, supportive approach, meeting you where you are and tailoring strategies to your unique strengths an...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, May 31
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 70 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Finding the right therapist can be a journey in itself, and connecting with your therapist is imperative. I offer services for depression, grief, anxiety, stress, career and workplace difficulties, women's issues, postpartum anxiety, anger management, and coping with life changes. Nutrition is also ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 1
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Scottsdale, AZ
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am now offering in-person therapy on Mondays and Wednesdays in the beautiful and historic old-town area of Auburn, California. I am a compassionate, trauma-informed therapist supporting individuals navigating trauma, crisis, addiction, anxiety, life transitions, and unresolved conflict. I work wi...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 1
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Frequently asked questions

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

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Psychologist in Phoenix, 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 Phoenix who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


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

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Phoenix 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 Phoenix?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Psychologists in Phoenix and book appointments instantly. You can search for Phoenix 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 Phoenix?

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


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

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


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

You can use Zocdoc to find Psychologists in Phoenix 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 Phoenix?

Psychologists in Phoenix 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 Phoenix 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 Phoenix 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 Phoenix who sees patients during the weekend?

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


What is psychology?

"Psychology" describes the scientific study of the mind and behavior. The Greek term "psyche," which means life or breath, is the root of the English word "psychology." The word also signifies "self" or "soul." 


The field of psychology strives to make human complexities easier — understanding people and gaining insights into their behavior. Although it is a vast field, themes like development, personality, thoughts, feelings, emotions, and motivations represent a small subset of what psychology aims to analyze, predict, and explain. 


Some typical applications of psychology in daily life include:


  • Providing treatment for mental health 
  • Curating educational programs
  • Improving ergonomics (analysis of employees' productivity) in the workplace
  • Enhancing the general performance of people
  • Help to make better choices for personal health and well-being
  • Making advances in psychological research
  • Offering self-help
  • Designing social programs
  • Understanding child development


As you can see, psychology entails a significant amount of depth and breadth despite being a relatively young science. 


A doctor of psychology is known as a psychologist. They consistently strive to decode the multiple aspects of the human mind and, in turn, add newfound knowledge of the field into practice by creating valuable tools and techniques that impact people's daily lives.


Psychologist vs. Psychiatrist

Psychiatry is a medical specialty focusing on biological factors that cause or prevent mental health conditions. Psychiatrists diagnose and treat the conditions as any other physical illness. They have training in genetics, biochemistry, neurology, and psychopharmacology.


After completing a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree, psychiatrists take a written exam to get licensed. In addition, they must complete a 4-year residency — where they work with patients and learn to diagnose, prevent, and treat mental disorders. After licensing, they can practice as well as prescribe medication. As they are physicians by training, psychiatrists can order medical tests or conduct physical checkups.


Psychologists, however, focus on the social, cultural, and environmental factors that affect mental health. They rely on therapy and counseling to manage mental illnesses. Psychologists aim to identify the factors that explain the patient's experiences and suggest changes to their thinking style or habits.


Psychologists also differ in their educational background and training. After completing graduate school, they enroll in one of the two degrees: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or Doctor of Psychology (PsyD). It may take 4 to 6 years to earn one of these degrees. Many choose to train for another two years, working directly with patients. 


Subspecialties in psychology

The American Psychological Association (APA) recognizes the following specializations in psychology:


  1. Clinical psychology collaborates science, theory, and practice to understand better, anticipate, and treat problems with adjustment, handicap, and discomfort. It encourages adaptation, adjustment, and personal development. 
  2. Clinical neuropsychology investigates the anatomy and function of the brain through behavioral and psychological processes. Neuropsychology may be required if a problem requires brain lesions or tests that involve monitoring electrical activity in the brain.
  3. School psychology entails dealing with students, parents or caregivers, and teachers in educational settings.
  4. Psychoanalysis focuses on comprehending and altering personality and other unconscious characteristics of behavior and thought.
  5. Child and adolescent psychology studies infants, children, and teenagers.
  6. Counseling psychology assists people of all ages with various emotional, social, occupational, health, and academic issues.
  7. Behavioral and cognitive psychology employs learning, development, and cognitive principles to assist with behavioral, thinking, and emotional issues.
  8. Couples and family psychology address issues that people may have in their relationships and families.
  9. Rehabilitation psychology helps people recover from injuries or illnesses.
  10. Geropsychology studies elderly individuals and their families.
  11. Serious mental illness psychology focuses on assisting persons with severe mental diseases, such as schizophrenia.
  12. Psychopharmacology is the use of psychological principles in drug production and study.
  13. Organizational psychology studies human behavior in workplaces and organizations.
  14. Forensic psychology is the use of psychology in criminal investigations and legal proceedings. A forensic psychologist applies psychology as a scientific discipline to the criminal justice and civil courts.
  15. Police and public safety psychology can help law enforcement officers and other public safety professionals.
  16. Group psychology and psychotherapy train group leaders to recognize problems and assist the growth of individual group members.
  17. Sleep psychology studies sleep and sleep-related disorders.


Common mental health issues

In recent years, mental health has become one of the more widely discussed issues across the world, and this is chiefly due to the acceptance of the fact that mental health-related stress and challenges are not restricted to your personal life anymore. Mental illness (and associated disability) is a leading cause of loss of productivity at work. For instance, clinical depression or major depressive disorder (MDD) can significantly impair performance at work, pushing the patient out of the workforce for weeks, if not months, and even years.


However, people still hesitate in seeking help, and this may be due to financial distress, lack of awareness, or social stigma. In reality, the Florida Behavioral Health Association reports that 56% of American adults with any mental illness (AMI) do not obtain treatment.


Some of the most common mental health concerns that psychologists near you manage are:


  • Generalized anxiety disorders (GAD) - Usually, we all face anxiety before an important event or a task, like giving a presentation or speech in front of a large audience. In contrast, a person suffering from GAD will experience severe anxiety about things that are not objectively threatening. Patients might feel nervous even going through the day doing regular chores, such as shopping, planning a picnic, or choosing a gift. About 3% of the population in the USA experiences GAD in an average year.


  • Major depressive disorder (MDD) - Living in a constant state of despair or extreme sadness that lasts for weeks can signify MDD. People suffering from MDD require immediate professional intervention; the condition can even lead to suicidal thoughts or actions.


  • Social anxiety disorder (SAD) - We are often surrounded by people who react differently in social situations, and we often categorize them as introverts or extroverts. However, preferring some time alone is not a sign of mental illness on its own. Instead, patients with SAD suffer from debilitating anxiety and may struggle to function well in any social situation. For instance, they may feel hesitation and shame in ordering a product. 


  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) - OCD causes people to have repetitive thoughts and obsessions constantly. They may even form a compulsion to carry out specific behaviors or actions. Sometimes, patients with OCD realize that their actions or thoughts are unreasonable and harmful. Still, they usually struggle to control their urges regardless. Over 2% of Americans have received an OCD diagnosis at some point in their lives.


  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) - It is a mental illness caused after experiencing a traumatic event. Experiences like war, accidents, disasters, or any form of abuse can lead to PTSD. Symptoms of PTSD include being startled or having flashbacks. 


Tips to improve mental health

While there is no quick fix to improve mental health overnight, you can always start with positive habits that may contribute to your overall mental well-being. 


Experts from Mental Health America suggest a few simple tips to boost your mental health. These include:


  • Start your day with coffee - Consuming coffee can directly or indirectly help lower your depression rate. You can even explore some additional healthy options like green tea.
  • Maintain a gratitude and achievement journal - Follow the 3-3 rule: Include three things you were grateful for and three achievements you were proud of in a day.
  • Plan getaways - This could involve camping with friends or visiting the tropics. Also, you can choose some budget-friendly options, such as picnics at a park with your loved ones or by yourself. Such quality time can boost your happiness for up to 8 weeks!
  • Use your strengths to build self-confidence - Regularly practice something you are good at and enjoy doing; this can include your hobbies, such as sports, painting, music, dance, etc. Gradually, you can increase the level of challenge and try to achieve them.
  • Laugh often - Laughter is the best anxiety reducer! Watch comedies, hang out with a friend who makes you laugh, or browse feel-good videos online.
  • Unwind with a warm bath - This is an easy self-care option you can do once a week. A pro tip is to use Epsom salts in your bath water. Since stress can deplete magnesium levels in your body, these salts help soothe aches and pains and help boost your mood.
  • Take it out on the paper - Talking to a close one or writing about upsetting experiences can decrease depression rates. Moreover, writing can be beneficial if you have nobody to share your thoughts and feelings with.


Furthermore, there are many other ways to keep your mental health well-balanced, and you can always do more of what makes you happier. However, it is always good to consult a professional, like a therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist, to get expert help when needed.


Finding the best psychologist near you

Even after we realize the importance of mental health, seeking help can be very difficult. Psychologists vary significantly in their experience, specialization, clinical interests, etc. A quality psychologist — who is friendly and hears you out — is especially tough to find.


However, with Zocdoc, you can effortlessly search among the top-rated psychologists in Phoenix who accept your insurance. Enter your insurance carrier, and we will display the best matching providers. All Zocdoc psychologists have detailed profiles that list their clinical experience, awards, board certifications, and more. You can also learn about the languages they speak and if they conduct a specific kind of therapy.


In addition to helping you make an informed decision, Zocdoc profiles provide verified customer reviews. You can quickly get first-hand information about the psychologist from current or former patients. Providers can also be sorted based on their gender, location, hospital affiliation, and much more!


Booking appointments with the best psychologists near you using Zocdoc is safe, secure, and 100% free.


Mental health in Arizona

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), around 4.5% of adults in the US live with severe mental health conditions such as depression and bipolar disorder. In 2017, 13.3% of teenagers between 12 and 17 had a major depressive episode, 9.4% had faced severe impairment from the same. Only 40.3% of adolescents reported receiving any form of treatment. In other words, the majority (about 59.7%) of those in need of mental healthcare may not be able to access care. 


According to Mental Health America, in 2023, Arizona ranks among the lowest (47 out of the 51 US states and the District of Columbia) in access to mental health services.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness report about mental health in Arizona, around 1,030,000 adults in the state have a mental condition. As of February 2021, while 40.8% of adults complained of anxiety or depression symptoms, approximately 257,000 adults had severe mental illness. The data among teenagers was equally serious, with 87,000 adolescents having depression.


The report also stated that a shocking 321,000 adults did not receive any help for their mental problems, and 35.3% of them opted out of treatment due to cost issues. In 2021, 1,438 people committed suicide in Arizona, and a staggering 237,000 adults had thoughts on ending their lives.


Sources

American Psychological Association

Healthline

The Ohio State University

Verywell Mind

Mental Health America

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Medical News Today[1]

Medical News Today[2]

Mental Health America

National Alliance on Mental Illness


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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