Therapists in Austin, TX

View neighborhoods in Austin
Katy Manganella
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RYT
9 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m going to try to talk to you exactly like I’d talk to my best friend. Look, it can be hard to be a person. And it’s even harder to be a person who knows themselves well and loves that person with compassion, kindness, and understanding. That’s basically what I do. I come alongside the people I work with to help them build a better relationship with themselves. Together, we move away from self-criticism, imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and anxiety and we move toward a balanced, fulfilling, connected life. Is this resonating? You absolutely do not have to be alone with this any more. You are my people and I want to work with you!
I’m going to try to talk to you exactly like I’d talk to my best friend. Look, it can be hard to be a person. And it’s even harder to be a person who knows themselves well and loves that person with compassion, kindness, and understanding. That’s basically what I do. I come alongside the people I work with to help them build a better relationship with themselves. Together, we move away from self-criticism, imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and anxiety and we move toward a balanced, fulfilling, connected life. Is this resonating? You absolutely do not have to be alone with this any more. You are my people and I want to work with you!
(737) 210-3090 View (737) 210-3090
Brian Kunde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Austin, TX 78746
Brian is passionate about helping clients build insight into their emotions, behaviors, and relationships outside of therapy in order to better achieve their goals. He has a relational approach to psychotherapy, in which he works to build a strong rapport with his clients through which he can help them feel heard, understood, validated, and supported in their efforts to make changes in their lives. Brian currently works with clients ages 13+.
Brian is passionate about helping clients build insight into their emotions, behaviors, and relationships outside of therapy in order to better achieve their goals. He has a relational approach to psychotherapy, in which he works to build a strong rapport with his clients through which he can help them feel heard, understood, validated, and supported in their efforts to make changes in their lives. Brian currently works with clients ages 13+.
(512) 399-8707 View (512) 399-8707
Charisse Ferrer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
Meaningful connection is essential for every human being to belong and to feel safe. When you start to lose this connection, you may start to feel the pull of your anxiety carrying you away in its wave of damaging and critical thoughts. You start to feel overcome with too many conflicting emotions that it becomes harder to make any decisions. You may even feel disconnected with your loved ones, where you can no longer communicate, and you start to believe that you are no longer compatible, while still hoping and longing to be close to one another. It is an exhausting push-pull cycle.
Meaningful connection is essential for every human being to belong and to feel safe. When you start to lose this connection, you may start to feel the pull of your anxiety carrying you away in its wave of damaging and critical thoughts. You start to feel overcome with too many conflicting emotions that it becomes harder to make any decisions. You may even feel disconnected with your loved ones, where you can no longer communicate, and you start to believe that you are no longer compatible, while still hoping and longing to be close to one another. It is an exhausting push-pull cycle.
(832) 769-4917 View (832) 769-4917
Andrea M Zeddies
Psychologist, PhD
Austin, TX 78731
I maintain a private practice in Austin specializing in adult psychotherapy specializing in women's issues, anxiety, depression, stress, college adjustment, relationship concerns, and parenting. I also provide parent consultations for parents of school-age children, and coordinate treatment with pediatricians, neurologists, psychiatrists, and family practice physicians in the Austin community (I am no longer providing psychological testing services).
I maintain a private practice in Austin specializing in adult psychotherapy specializing in women's issues, anxiety, depression, stress, college adjustment, relationship concerns, and parenting. I also provide parent consultations for parents of school-age children, and coordinate treatment with pediatricians, neurologists, psychiatrists, and family practice physicians in the Austin community (I am no longer providing psychological testing services).
(512) 337-4658 View (512) 337-4658
Rawan Ashrawi-Abughazaleh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I'm so glad you have landed here. Whether this is your first time exploring counseling support or you've been seeing a counselor for years, WELCOME. Finding the right counselor can be overwhelming, so as you read along here, I hope you are able to see the ways we can work together. I am a 1st generation born-in-America, Palestinian, woman. I come from a large family and have played sports my whole life. These identities are important to me, and I imagine you may have some that are dear to you. In this space, identities are important, validated, and processed.
I'm so glad you have landed here. Whether this is your first time exploring counseling support or you've been seeing a counselor for years, WELCOME. Finding the right counselor can be overwhelming, so as you read along here, I hope you are able to see the ways we can work together. I am a 1st generation born-in-America, Palestinian, woman. I come from a large family and have played sports my whole life. These identities are important to me, and I imagine you may have some that are dear to you. In this space, identities are important, validated, and processed.
(512) 883-9692 View (512) 883-9692
Abigail Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Austin, TX 78735
Are you caught in a cycle of anxious thoughts, avoidance, and the quiet dread that things will never change? Whether you're managing OCD, social anxiety, or the kind of persistent worry that follows you everywhere, you deserve more than white-knuckling through another day. You don't need to have it all figured out to start — you just need to be willing. I'll meet you exactly where you are, with warmth, a clear game plan, and the occasional laugh along the way.
Are you caught in a cycle of anxious thoughts, avoidance, and the quiet dread that things will never change? Whether you're managing OCD, social anxiety, or the kind of persistent worry that follows you everywhere, you deserve more than white-knuckling through another day. You don't need to have it all figured out to start — you just need to be willing. I'll meet you exactly where you are, with warmth, a clear game plan, and the occasional laugh along the way.
(737) 371-9960 View (737) 371-9960
Sydney Goshorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm Sydney Goshorn, a licensed clinical social worker specializing in helping adults find relief while navigating the effects of severe mental illnesses, traumas, depression, and anxiety. I believe everyone is capable of growth, and my role is to help you enjoy being an adult by giving you ongoing support. Centering compassion and person-centered approaches, I offer therapy that helps you improve daily life functioning, prevent relapse of symptoms, increase insight and motivation for recovery, set personal goals, and enhance life satisfaction.
I'm Sydney Goshorn, a licensed clinical social worker specializing in helping adults find relief while navigating the effects of severe mental illnesses, traumas, depression, and anxiety. I believe everyone is capable of growth, and my role is to help you enjoy being an adult by giving you ongoing support. Centering compassion and person-centered approaches, I offer therapy that helps you improve daily life functioning, prevent relapse of symptoms, increase insight and motivation for recovery, set personal goals, and enhance life satisfaction.
(737) 379-0116 View (737) 379-0116
Emery Rodriguez
LPC Associate, MS
6 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
I cherish working with marginalized Millennial and Gen Z adults. For those of you who are carrying past experiences that have impacted your sense of safety or belonging, know that you're welcome here exactly as you are. Maybe you're seeking to understand your mind and body's responses to stress and anxiety, foster deeper connections within your relationships, or break free from shame and perfectionism. As a therapist part of the 2SLGBTQ+, neurodiverse, ethnic, and disabled communities, I'm dedicated to supporting your journey with warmth, understanding, and the utmost respect for your lived experience.
I cherish working with marginalized Millennial and Gen Z adults. For those of you who are carrying past experiences that have impacted your sense of safety or belonging, know that you're welcome here exactly as you are. Maybe you're seeking to understand your mind and body's responses to stress and anxiety, foster deeper connections within your relationships, or break free from shame and perfectionism. As a therapist part of the 2SLGBTQ+, neurodiverse, ethnic, and disabled communities, I'm dedicated to supporting your journey with warmth, understanding, and the utmost respect for your lived experience.
(972) 526-5306 View (972) 526-5306
Josh Shifrin
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected—from others, from themselves, or from a sense of meaning. They may be navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship concerns, or major life transitions. Often, they understand what’s happening intellectually but still feel caught in familiar emotional patterns. They’re looking for clarity, connection, and a place to slow down, understand themselves more deeply, and begin relating to life with greater steadiness and flexibility.
Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected—from others, from themselves, or from a sense of meaning. They may be navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship concerns, or major life transitions. Often, they understand what’s happening intellectually but still feel caught in familiar emotional patterns. They’re looking for clarity, connection, and a place to slow down, understand themselves more deeply, and begin relating to life with greater steadiness and flexibility.
(737) 295-9491 View (737) 295-9491
Brent Marley
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78749
Are you looking for a therapist who is down-to-earth and has been through it? It’s me! I use my education and personal experience to explain how to build happiness and/or manage our mental health using everyday language and metaphors anyone can relate to. I spent years suffering with depression, anxiety, and general unhappiness; it was not fun. I learned how to change my life and manage my mental health; I’d love to share my methods with you. My life has been an eclectic one, allowing me to connect with all kinds of people of different ages, backgrounds, sexuality, religions, and politics.
Are you looking for a therapist who is down-to-earth and has been through it? It’s me! I use my education and personal experience to explain how to build happiness and/or manage our mental health using everyday language and metaphors anyone can relate to. I spent years suffering with depression, anxiety, and general unhappiness; it was not fun. I learned how to change my life and manage my mental health; I’d love to share my methods with you. My life has been an eclectic one, allowing me to connect with all kinds of people of different ages, backgrounds, sexuality, religions, and politics.
(512) 298-2460 View (512) 298-2460
Heather Lowery
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MA, BS
Austin, TX 78737
I work with preteens, teens, and adults who may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or unsure of what comes next. Clients may be navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationships, identity, self-worth, ADHD, life transitions, or simply wanting to better understand themselves. Together, we slow things down, make sense of what’s happening, recognize patterns, and create a clearer path forward.
I work with preteens, teens, and adults who may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or unsure of what comes next. Clients may be navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationships, identity, self-worth, ADHD, life transitions, or simply wanting to better understand themselves. Together, we slow things down, make sense of what’s happening, recognize patterns, and create a clearer path forward.
(737) 265-6196 View (737) 265-6196
Johana Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Austin, TX 78745
I am an inviting, bubbly, and compassionate therapist who strives to create a warm and welcoming environment for patients. During the intake session, patients can expect me to ask a lot of questions. I like to explore their primary concerns in depth because I believe it is important to gain a well-rounded understanding of not only the presenting issue, but also the patient as a whole person, including their relationships, social circle, and overall environment. My patients have shared that they felt truly heard and no longer alone while working with me.
I am an inviting, bubbly, and compassionate therapist who strives to create a warm and welcoming environment for patients. During the intake session, patients can expect me to ask a lot of questions. I like to explore their primary concerns in depth because I believe it is important to gain a well-rounded understanding of not only the presenting issue, but also the patient as a whole person, including their relationships, social circle, and overall environment. My patients have shared that they felt truly heard and no longer alone while working with me.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Sara McGann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Adjusting to life after a brain injury or coping with a complex medical diagnosis can feel overwhelming and isolating. You may struggle with uncertainty, frustration, or even depression as you navigate these changes. These experiences often bring a mix of grief for what has changed and anxiety about what lies ahead. It’s common to feel disconnected from your former self, caught in patterns of negative thinking, or unsure how to move forward. Together, we can create a safe, supportive space to explore these challenges, helping you rediscover resilience, build coping skills, and reclaim a sense of purpose and fulfillment in your life.
Adjusting to life after a brain injury or coping with a complex medical diagnosis can feel overwhelming and isolating. You may struggle with uncertainty, frustration, or even depression as you navigate these changes. These experiences often bring a mix of grief for what has changed and anxiety about what lies ahead. It’s common to feel disconnected from your former self, caught in patterns of negative thinking, or unsure how to move forward. Together, we can create a safe, supportive space to explore these challenges, helping you rediscover resilience, build coping skills, and reclaim a sense of purpose and fulfillment in your life.
(737) 520-7031 View (737) 520-7031
Aidan Vaughan
Licensed Master Social Worker, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
I am dedicated to creating a safe, supportive environment for all my clients. I work with children, adolescents and adults and strongly believe in the importance of meeting people where they are at. I use a strengths-based, client-centered approach to therapy while integrating social work perspectives into my practice. I enjoy collaborating with my clients to explore and address life’s challenges and I am committed to helping build resilience, developing inherent strengths, and finding meaningful solutions to move forward.
I am dedicated to creating a safe, supportive environment for all my clients. I work with children, adolescents and adults and strongly believe in the importance of meeting people where they are at. I use a strengths-based, client-centered approach to therapy while integrating social work perspectives into my practice. I enjoy collaborating with my clients to explore and address life’s challenges and I am committed to helping build resilience, developing inherent strengths, and finding meaningful solutions to move forward.
(512) 991-3186 View (512) 991-3186
Sydney Paver
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I am a licensed psychologist in Austin, Texas, providing psychotherapy for individuals and couples who present with a broad range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, chronic illness, and grief. Most people seek psychotherapy when they are in emotional distress. Therapy is a helpful and supportive path to self-understanding and self-acceptance. Through the therapeutic process, hurtful and confusing feelings are identified and resolved through safe, guided discussions.
I am a licensed psychologist in Austin, Texas, providing psychotherapy for individuals and couples who present with a broad range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, chronic illness, and grief. Most people seek psychotherapy when they are in emotional distress. Therapy is a helpful and supportive path to self-understanding and self-acceptance. Through the therapeutic process, hurtful and confusing feelings are identified and resolved through safe, guided discussions.
(737) 258-4938 View (737) 258-4938
Jon Hock - Men's Work
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
I work with men who feel stuck, burned out, or disconnected from themselves, often after years of carrying responsibility, stress, or unresolved trauma alone. Many of the men I see have learned to keep pushing forward without stopping to reflect. As a U.S. Army veteran, I understand that mindset firsthand. Over time, this can lead to emotional numbness, irritability, and a loss of direction or purpose. My approach is existential, blending psychotherapy with enduring philosophical ideas to help you make sense of yourself, your relationships, and your place in the world.
I work with men who feel stuck, burned out, or disconnected from themselves, often after years of carrying responsibility, stress, or unresolved trauma alone. Many of the men I see have learned to keep pushing forward without stopping to reflect. As a U.S. Army veteran, I understand that mindset firsthand. Over time, this can lead to emotional numbness, irritability, and a loss of direction or purpose. My approach is existential, blending psychotherapy with enduring philosophical ideas to help you make sense of yourself, your relationships, and your place in the world.
(737) 337-5405 View (737) 337-5405
Clark Mental Health Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A, LCDC
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78752
Do you want to navigate your own journey in life but fear that exploring new ideas might alienate you from family, friends, or your community? Do you often doubt your emotions and struggle to trust yourself? Have found it hard to believe or connect with feelings of love and appreciation? If you’re facing grief or going through life transitions, you might feel lost and overwhelmed. I understand how heavy these experiences can feel, often leading to isolation and inadequacy. If you've ever felt a lack of belonging, connection, or confidence, know that you are not alone. My compassionate approach will help you reclaim your identity.
Do you want to navigate your own journey in life but fear that exploring new ideas might alienate you from family, friends, or your community? Do you often doubt your emotions and struggle to trust yourself? Have found it hard to believe or connect with feelings of love and appreciation? If you’re facing grief or going through life transitions, you might feel lost and overwhelmed. I understand how heavy these experiences can feel, often leading to isolation and inadequacy. If you've ever felt a lack of belonging, connection, or confidence, know that you are not alone. My compassionate approach will help you reclaim your identity.
(737) 383-1061 View (737) 383-1061
Zoe Scurletis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
Have you ever found yourself asking, "Is there more to life than this?" Maybe you're questioning the career you worked so hard to build, wondering whether your relationship still fits who you're becoming, or feeling a quiet pull to start over. Perhaps everything looks fine on paper, yet something feels missing. Whether you're in your twenties and unsure which path to take or in your thirties wondering where the years went, these questions can feel unsettling. As a therapist, I specialize in helping people navigate quarter-life crises. I believe these moments of doubt aren't signs that you're ready to live more honestly.
Have you ever found yourself asking, "Is there more to life than this?" Maybe you're questioning the career you worked so hard to build, wondering whether your relationship still fits who you're becoming, or feeling a quiet pull to start over. Perhaps everything looks fine on paper, yet something feels missing. Whether you're in your twenties and unsure which path to take or in your thirties wondering where the years went, these questions can feel unsettling. As a therapist, I specialize in helping people navigate quarter-life crises. I believe these moments of doubt aren't signs that you're ready to live more honestly.
(737) 387-4614 View (737) 387-4614
Lisa K. Wheeler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
Do you feel out of sync with mainstream culture? Do you have non-ordinary experiences like voices or visions that are difficult to talk about? Having uncommon qualities and the capacity for depth and complexity can be difficult to navigate in our competitive, linear-oriented, results-driven culture. Knowing and accepting yourself for simply "you" (not who others think you should be) is an important practice to cultivate and will help release toxic stress and shame, allowing you to connect more deeply with yourself and others. Ideal clients are those seeking healing from difficult relationships, abuse, and support in parenting.
Do you feel out of sync with mainstream culture? Do you have non-ordinary experiences like voices or visions that are difficult to talk about? Having uncommon qualities and the capacity for depth and complexity can be difficult to navigate in our competitive, linear-oriented, results-driven culture. Knowing and accepting yourself for simply "you" (not who others think you should be) is an important practice to cultivate and will help release toxic stress and shame, allowing you to connect more deeply with yourself and others. Ideal clients are those seeking healing from difficult relationships, abuse, and support in parenting.
(512) 969-6454 View (512) 969-6454
Maryam Siddiqui, LPC-S @ Evolve Psychiatry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Austin, TX 78735
Are you carrying the weight of trauma, grief, or a mental health diagnosis that has made it hard to feel stable, safe, or like yourself? Whether you're an adult navigating PTSD and emotional upheaval or a parent watching your child struggle with behavioral challenges, the path to clarity can feel impossibly far away. You don't have to find your way there alone — and with the right support, it is closer than you think.
Are you carrying the weight of trauma, grief, or a mental health diagnosis that has made it hard to feel stable, safe, or like yourself? Whether you're an adult navigating PTSD and emotional upheaval or a parent watching your child struggle with behavioral challenges, the path to clarity can feel impossibly far away. You don't have to find your way there alone — and with the right support, it is closer than you think.
(737) 355-7949 View (737) 355-7949

See more therapy options for Austin

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Austin, TX

3,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Austin, TX who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
93% Social Anxiety
93% Health Anxiety
93% Driving Anxiety
85% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
72% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
73% BlueCross and BlueShield
71% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Austin, TX see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
18% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today Directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public. Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal. Learn more about what it means to be verified by Psychology Today.

How can I find a therapist in Austin accepting new clients?

One of the easiest ways to find a therapist in your area who is accepting new clients is to use the Psychology Today Directory. You can search by location and narrow your options based on factors such as insurance, specialty, treatment approach, and whether you prefer in-person or online sessions. Therapist profiles indicate whether they are accepting new clients, but it's worth reaching out if you find someone who seems like a good fit, even if their availability is unclear. According to Psychology Today's own research, most therapists respond to inquiries from prospective clients within two days. Even if a therapist is fully booked, they may be able to refer you to another provider or add you to a waitlist. Read more about finding a therapist.

How do I find a therapist who treats my specific concern?

Finding a therapist who has experience treating your specific concern can help you get care that is most helpful for you. A good place to start is by identifying what you would most like help with, whether that is a mental health condition like anxiety or depression or a specific challenge such as grief or relationship difficulties. You can then look for therapists who specialize in those areas and review therapist profiles to learn more about their experience and the types of clients they typically work with. Different therapists also use different treatment approaches, and certain types of therapy may be particularly helpful for specific concerns. Find out more about different types of therapy and treatment approaches.

Should I choose online or in-person therapy?

Both online and in-person therapy can be effective for treating a wide range of mental health concerns. According to Psychology Today’s survey of its therapist members, 63% reported seeing no difference in effectiveness between the two formats, although the best option for you depends on personal preferences and circumstances. Online therapy offers greater convenience and flexibility, particularly if you live in a rural area, have limited transportation options, or have a chronic illness or disability that makes attending in-person appointments difficult. However, in-person therapy may be a better fit for therapeutic approaches that rely heavily on body language and other nonverbal cues such as EMDR, somatic therapy, couples or family therapy, and play therapy for children. In-person therapy may also be better if you lack a private, comfortable space for sessions at home. Read more about online versus in-person therapy.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy varies depending on factors such as your location, the therapist’s experience and qualifications, and the type of therapy you receive. In the United States, individual therapy sessions typically cost between $100 and $200 or more without insurance. If you have health insurance, your out-of-pocket costs may be lower, depending on your plan’s mental health benefits and whether your therapist is in-network or out-of-network. If cost is a concern, you can also look for therapists who offer "sliding-scale" fees based on your income or explore lower-cost options through community-based mental health clinics. Learn more about the cost of therapy.

How do I find a therapist who accepts my insurance?

You can use the Psychology Today Directory to find therapists in your area and use the insurance filter to find an in-network therapist. You can also filter by specialty, treatment approach, and other preferences. Your insurance company's website is another good place to look, as most insurers maintain directories of in-network mental health providers. Once you've found a therapist who seems like a good fit, reach out to confirm that they accept your specific insurance plan, since some therapists may participate only certain types of plans offered by an insurance company. You can also ask your insurer about your expected out-of-pocket costs, including copayments, coinsurance, or deductibles. Find out more about what insurance covers for therapy.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

If the cost of therapy is a concern, it may be worth asking a therapist whether they offer a reduced fee or sliding scale. Sliding scales allow you to pay a lower rate based on factors such as your income or ability to pay, although availability and the amount of the discount are determined by the therapist. In a survey of its therapist members, Psychology Today found that over two-thirds (67%) said they were at least somewhat likely to offer a reduced fee to a client who asked. Other lower-cost therapy options include group therapy, community mental health clinics, and universities, where sessions with therapists in training may be provided at reduced rates. Learn more about low cost therapy and sliding scales.

What should I include when I first contact a therapist?

When contacting a therapist for the first time, it's helpful to briefly explain why you're seeking therapy, your insurance or payment method, your availability, and how soon you'd like to start. Of therapist members surveyed by Psychology Today, 78% considered a client's primary reason for seeking therapy very important to include in an initial inquiry. Other details therapists considered important included insurance or payment method (65%), scheduling availability (56%), and how urgently the client needed care (53%). You don't need to share your entire personal history or go into detail about sensitive concerns. A few sentences, along with the best way to contact you, are usually enough to help a therapist determine whether they may be a good fit for your needs.

How long does it typically take to get an appointment with a therapist?

Wait times for therapy appointments can vary depending on factors such as a therapist's availability, specialty, and whether you prefer in-person or online sessions. However, many therapists are able to see new clients within one to two weeks. When surveyed, 59% of Psychology Today members reported being able to schedule a first session within six days, and 89% could see a new client within two weeks. Online-only therapists generally reported shorter wait times than those offering in-person appointments, so if you're hoping to start therapy quickly, consider contacting several therapists who are accepting new clients and being flexible about session format.

What should I expect from an initial consultation with a therapist?

An initial consultation is usually a brief conversation to help you and the therapist decide whether they may be a good fit for your needs. Many therapists offer a free consultation before scheduling a full session. In fact, in surveying its members, Psychology Today found that 59% of its therapists offer a free 15-minute consultation. During a consultation, you may discuss what is bringing you to therapy, what you hope to work on, the therapist’s approach, scheduling, and insurance or payment. Psychology Today therapists also emphasized that it's okay to consult with multiple therapists before choosing one, and that it may take a few sessions to determine whether a therapist is the right fit for you.