This guide will help you understand how to find a qualified sex therapist you can speak with in person or online.

Later on, we’ve also explained what issues sexologists and sex therapists can help with, and what to expect from the therapy process.

1. Regain

Regain provides flexible online counseling services for individuals and couples navigating sexual, relationship, and other related difficulties. 

This platform is designed to make it easy for you to connect with a licensed therapist who understands your situation.

When you sign up, you complete a short intake questionnaire. Based on your answers, you’ll be matched with a therapist who fits your preferences and the issues you want to address.

For example, you might state that you’d prefer to see a therapist of a certain gender if this makes it easier to talk about concerns like sexual communication or performance. If the first match doesn’t feel right, you can switch to a different sex therapist at any time. 

Regain gives you the option to start therapy on your own and invite your partner later, once you’ve made some progress. Or, if you prefer, you can invite your partner right away after completing the initial questionnaire.

This flexibility allows the therapist to better understand both your personal experience and the dynamics of your relationship, but there is also the option to seek help alone, if you’d prefer. 

Weekly therapy sessions are conducted live through a video call, though you can turn your camera off if you’d prefer.

You can also message your therapist between sessions to share updates, ask questions, or note concerns. Your therapist will review your messages and respond with guidance, insights, and feedback.

Regain does not accept most US health insurance plans, however using this platform is generally cheaper than seeing a sex therapist in person and paying out of pocket.

Plus, Regain has a financial aid program available, helping to lower the cost further if you would struggle to afford the regular price.

2. AASECT

Founded in 1967, the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) is a nationally recognized organization that upholds high standards in sexual education and ethical guidelines for professionals.

One of the most valuable tools AASECT offers is its Referral Directory, which lets you search for certified sexologists and sex therapists by state or city.

Once you choose your state on the AASECT website, you’ll see a list of links to the profiles of qualified therapists on the platform, and the city they’re located.

These profiles generally describe the therapist’s certifications, degrees, areas of specialization (e.g., difficulties with arousal and orgasm), and therapeutic approaches. You’ll also see whether they work in private practice, their office hours, and if they provide telehealth sessions.

Some profiles also outline the therapist’s philosophy of care—for instance, whether they take a cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, or holistic approach—so you can choose a therapist whose treatment style aligns with your needs.

Choosing an AASECT-certified professional means you’re connecting with someone who has completed specialized training in sexual health and abides by strict ethical guidelines.

This reassurance is particularly important if you’re seeking support for sensitive concerns, erectile or orgasm difficulties, or compulsive sexual behavior.

The problem with this directory is, the number of therapists available is limited in certain states. It might be difficult to find a qualified counselor or sexologist if you live in a smaller town or city.

Also, in more populated states and cities with a lot of counselors available, filtering therapists to find the right match is a bit difficult. You can’t filter by therapist gender or certification for example.

3. Mental Health Today therapist directory

Our Mental Health Today therapist directory allows you to search for licensed therapists with expertise in sexual and relational issues, including support for low libido, performance anxiety, and intimacy challenges.

Once you visit the directory, you can filter therapists by specialty, therapy type, state, or specific qualifications to find a provider who meets your needs. 

If you’re struggling with issues such as low desire, painful sex, performance worries, or differences in intimacy within your relationship, our directory can help you find a therapist who understands these challenges.

Many providers also have expertise in related areas—such as trauma recovery, relationship counseling, or mood disorders—so your care can address sexual concerns alongside broader emotional and relational well-being. 

You can choose to meet with a therapist in person, or opt for the flexibility of online sessions through video or phone, depending on what feels most comfortable.

This allows you to access specialized support, whether you prefer face-to-face therapy or the convenience of remote care.

However, unlike on Regain, some therapists on the directory don’t provide online counseling, which means it can be hard to find a licensed sex therapist if you live in a small town or city.

Issues a sex therapist can help with

Sexual difficulties can present in many different ways.

They often connect to the main stages of sexual experience: desire (wanting sex), arousal (getting aroused), orgasm (reaching orgasm), and resolution (feeling comfortable afterward). 

These stages are commonly described as the sexual response cycle.

When something interrupts these stages, problems can appear. For example, you might feel little or no desire (desire disorders) or struggle to get or stay aroused (arousal disorders). Any of these issues can leave you feeling discouraged, stressed, or disconnected from your partner. 

Common problems in sexual functioning

You might find that your interest in sex feels low, or that it’s difficult to feel desire at all. You may want sex but have trouble becoming aroused, such as difficulty getting or keeping an erection.

Some individuals experience orgasms that occur prematurely, are delayed, or don’t happen at all despite adequate stimulation.

Pain during sex is another common issue. You might notice your muscles tightening automatically, making penetration painful or impossible. Or you may feel ongoing discomfort due to irritation, injury, or medical conditions.

These problems are not “just in your head”—they are real, and therapy can combine gentle physical strategies with emotional support to ease both pain and fear.

Emotional and psychological concerns

Sexual challenges often go beyond the body. You may carry anxiety, fear, or shame about sex, sometimes linked to past sexual trauma. 

Cultural, religious, or social messages about what sex “should” look like can add more pressure and confusion. You might also struggle with body image, leaving you too self-conscious to relax and enjoy intimacy.

It’s also common to worry about being “too sexual”. Compulsive sexual behavior, hypersexuality, or pornography addiction can feel overwhelming and disruptive. 

A therapist can help you find balance so that your sexual expression feels healthy instead of harmful.

Relationship and communication issues

You and your partner may have different levels of desire, leading to tension or avoidance. Or you may struggle to talk openly about intimacy, which leads to misunderstandings and frustration.

Sometimes, sexual difficulties can affect the broader relationship, leaving you both feeling distant or conflicted. Therapy gives you a safe place to have these conversations, rebuild trust, and strengthen closeness. 

Sexual health and living with STIs

If you’re living with a sexually transmitted infection (STI), the impact goes beyond the physical. You may worry about rejection, feel shame, or face anxiety talking about your condition with sexual partners.

Discussing these concerns with a therapist can help you process your emotions and find ways to communicate with your partner more openly and confidently.

How sex therapy works in practice

Starting therapy: building the foundation

Sex therapy has no one-size-fits-all script. Your therapist works with you to decide what to focus on—sometimes medical issues, mental health, or relationship conflicts need attention before sex itself.

In some cases, therapy involves both partners and focuses on shared responsibility—encouraging collaboration rather than placing the issue on one person alone. Though, one-to-one sex therapy is also very common.

Because sexual concerns appear at different stages of the response cycle, therapy targets the area most affected—low desire, erection problems, ejaculation control, or difficulty reaching orgasm. Each stage has tailored strategies for both men and women.

Desire: reigniting interest

For women, therapy often begins with education and normalization—understanding that fantasies are healthy and can spark interest.

Techniques such as mindfulness help to reduce distractions such as body image worries or cultural stigma, while your counselor may also work to improve your self-esteem. 

Therapists may recommend tracking emotional and physical signs of desire, experimenting with erotic stimuli, and nurturing connection through shared, non-sexual activities like walking or dancing.

For men, when facing issues such as reduced sexual desire, the first step is ruling out biological factors such as hormones or medications. Instead of forcing yourself to “want more,” you’ll be guided to accept your current level of desire and build from there.

Cognitive and mindfulness strategies can help to reduce feelings of pressure, while methods such as sensate focus or simmering (gentle fantasy work) can help reawaken sexual interest.

For both sexes, therapists may use affectual awareness (visualizing sexual scenes to uncover difficult emotions) or cognitive self-instruction (replacing thoughts like “I’ll lose control” with “I can allow myself to enjoy this”).

In some situations, biological support may be considered. For example, hormone treatments can help women whose concerns stem from menopause or surgery.

 New medications may also be available for both men and women with persistent desire difficulties.

Arousal: rebuilding confidence

For women, long-standing arousal difficulties often bring frustration or doubt. Therapy begins by setting realistic expectations, for example that sexual interest can’t be switched on, but it grows in safe, relaxed situations.

You and your partner will define intimacy together, challenge negative thoughts, and practice communication skills to express needs and preferences.

For example, you might practice saying, “I feel more relaxed when we slow down,” or, “I’d like to try more touching before we move to intercourse.”

Fantasies are reframed as normal and healthy, helping desire return naturally. When pain or involuntary muscle contractions around the vagina are involved, treatment may include two steps:

1. Practicing tightening and relaxing muscles to regain control.
2. Gradual exposure with dilators—always at your own pace—until pain-free intercourse becomes possible.

For men, arousal problems often appear as erectile disorder (ED). Therapy reframes ED as a shared challenge, not your problem alone.

Therapy encourages shifting focus from performance-based outcomes like penetration to fostering emotional closeness and mutual comfort.

In some cases, medications such as Viagra or Cialis may also be recommended alongside therapy.

Orgasm: building confidence and control

For men, orgasm difficulties can take the form of premature or delayed ejaculation. 

For premature ejaculation, strategies like the stop-start method (pausing stimulation before climax to build control) or the squeeze technique (gently squeezing the penis to reduce arousal before resuming) help you build control.

For delayed ejaculation, therapy often blends anxiety reduction with stimulation-based strategies—such as masturbating to orgasm in your partner’s presence or pausing just short of climax before intercourse.

For women, orgasm difficulties often arise from barriers such as fear of losing control, guilt, or negative cultural and religious messages about sexuality.

Therapy begins by uncovering and reframing these beliefs. Directed masturbation training is one of the most effective methods.

Step by step, you’ll use diagrams, educational erotic materials, and guided exercises to notice what feels good. These practices build confidence and comfort with your body before involving your partner. 

Resolution: comfort and ongoing intimacy  

The last stage, resolution, is about how you and your partner feel after sex.

Therapy emphasizes that intimacy doesn’t end when the activity does—it’s carried into the way you talk, connect, and support each other afterward.

Online vs in-person sex therapy

A key decision before beginning therapy is whether to see a sex therapist in person or remotely.

Each format offers specific advantages, and the best fit depends on your comfort level, schedule, and local access to care.

Seeing a therapist in person allows for richer communication. 

Being in the same space allows your therapist to see how your emotions present physically. Nonverbal cues such as body language are easier to detect, which can help guide the conversation more intuitively.

Some people also feel more supported when working through sensitive topics face-to-face, especially when practicing exercises designed to reduce anxiety or build intimacy.

At the same time, in-person care isn’t always practical. If you live in a rural area, can’t find a local qualified sex therapist, or have a busy schedule, you might find it hard to get the support you need. Travel, work, and family commitments can all get in the way of effective care.

Online therapy removes many of these barriers. You can connect with a licensed sexologist by video, phone, or even text messaging, from the privacy of your home.

This can feel safer when discussing deeply personal issues such as desire, arousal, or relationship conflict. Many people also find it easier to schedule regular sessions online, making therapy more accessible.

For some, meeting at home even enhances comfort—especially if shame, anxiety, or stigma about sex has been a barrier to starting therapy.

Plus, it’s often easier to find the best therapist for you over the internet, since the number of licensed professionals available to choose from is much higher.

Using online therapy, you’re much more likely to find a qualified sex therapist who is licensed to practice in your state, has experience helping people with similar issues to yours, and is your preferred gender (if you have one).

Cost of sex therapy in the US

Sex therapy costs in the U.S. are comparable to other types of mental health counseling. However, fees vary based on several factors, such as where you live, the therapist’s qualifications and experience, and whether insurance is available.

Typical cost

• Private sessions often range from $100 to $300 per hour, mostly depending on the city where the therapist resides.
• Couples counseling normally costs more than individual sessions, about 50% higher in most cases.
• Some online platforms, like Regain, offer packaged subscription plans, with lower costs compared to traditional in-person sessions.
• Sliding scale pricing is sometimes available, whereby the rate charged depends on your income. This is commonly offered through community clinics or by supervised interns, but some regular therapists offer sliding scale pricing as well.
• Online platforms such as Regain often offer financial aid programs. These work in a similar way to sliding scale pricing, whereby you can receive a certain discount if you would struggle to afford paying out of pocket.

Insurance and payment

While some sex therapists and sexologists do accept insurance, many are private-pay only. If coverage isn’t available, you can potentially lower costs by using a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).

In many cases, insurance companies require a formal diagnosis—such as a mental health or medical condition—before classifying sex therapy as medically necessary.

Without this, coverage may not apply. It’s best to confirm your level of coverage with both your therapist and your insurance provider before starting treatment.

Conclusion

Sex therapy is not only about resolving difficulties—it’s about empowering individuals and couples to reconnect with themselves and each other in meaningful ways.

Through guided exploration, therapy creates a space to unlock suppressed desires and cultivate a deeper sense of sexual agency.

If you’re still not sure how best to find a qualified sex therapist near you, leave us a comment below, and we’ll help out.

Below, you’ll find a set of simple practices designed to help reduce stress, boost your mood, deepen self-awareness, and support your mental and emotional well-being.

Relaxation exercises: calming the body to soothe the mind

When you feel stressed, your body naturally switches into ‘alert mode’. Your heart races, your muscles tighten, and your breathing speeds up. This fight-or-flight response is helpful in emergencies, but can make everyday stress feel overwhelming.

The good news is that your body has a calming system that can slow your heartbeat, ease tension, and restore balance. Relaxation exercises are designed to turn this system on.

Deep belly breathing (4-2-6) 

In stressful moments, many people breathe quickly and shallowly—or even hold their breath without realizing it. This can leave you feeling lightheaded, tense, and on edge, which only adds to stress.

Deep belly breathing reverses this pattern. Breathe in slowly through your nose for four seconds, hold gently for two, and exhale slowly for six.

Breathing this way signals safety to your body, steadies your heart rate, and slows racing thoughts. Try it before a big meeting, in traffic, or at bedtime to help you unwind.

Progressive muscle relaxation

This technique helps you notice and release hidden tension. Begin at your feet: gently tense the muscles for 5-10 seconds, then release. Pay attention to the difference between tension and relaxation.

Move upward through your calves, thighs, stomach, shoulders, and face. With practice, you train your body to relax on command. This is especially useful if you carry stress in your shoulders, clench your jaw, or get tension headaches.

Grounding with the five senses

Grounding brings your attention back to the present moment and prevents overwhelming emotions from taking over.

One of the easiest grounding methods is to note down what your senses are experiencing:

• 5 things you can see (e.g., a book on the table, a tree outside, your shoes)
• 4 things you can touch (e.g., your chair, your hands, the floor, a pen)
• 3 things you can hear (e.g., birds outside, traffic, your own breathing)
• 2 things you can smell (e.g., coffee, soap)
• 1 thing you can taste (e.g., a sip of water, a mint)

The simple shift of focus interrupts racing thoughts and anchors you in the here and now.

Mindfulness and thought exercises

Body scan meditation

The body scan is a mindfulness technique that helps you relax by paying gentle attention to physical sensations from head to toe.

It’s a way of checking in with your body, noticing tension or discomfort you are feeling.

First, sit or lie down somewhere quiet.

Start with your toes and slowly move your focus upward—feet, legs, stomach, shoulders, and face—pausing at each area. Notice what you feel: warmth, tightness, tingling, or ease.

This practice promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and helps you feel more connected to your body.

Thought record

A thought record helps you evaluate negative thoughts and come up with alternative, more balanced perspectives.

Start by writing about a stressful situation and the automatic thought that popped up (e.g., “If I make a mistake at work, I’ll be fired”). Next, jot down the emotions you felt, then list evidence for and against that thought.

Finally, create a more balanced version (e.g., “Everyone makes mistakes sometimes, and one slip doesn’t erase my good work”). This exercise helps shift rigid, anxious thinking toward a calmer, more realistic outlook.

Gratitude list

Stress often pulls attention toward what’s missing or what went wrong, leaving little room for appreciation.

A gratitude list interrupts this ungrateful cycle and redirects your focus to what’s going right. Each day, write down three things you’re thankful for—big or small.

It could be “a good cup of coffee”, “a kind text from a friend”, or “the sound of rain”.

Over time, this daily habit trains your brain to notice positives instead of only focusing on problems. Gratitude lists can help lift mood, improve relationships, and build a more hopeful outlook.

Everyday coping exercises

When stress builds, it’s easy to get pulled off track by emotions or distractions. Everyday coping exercises help you steady yourself, refocus, and respond in ways that support your goals.

Journaling, for example, has been shown to reduce stress, lift your mood, boost self-esteem, and even help you process difficult experiences.

These small practices may look simple, but with regular use, they can make a big difference in how you handle daily challenges.

Mood journaling

Keeping a mood journal helps you improve self-awareness and understand your emotional patterns. It can also make it easier to sort through complex emotions that feel confusing or overwhelming.

Take a few minutes each day to jot down what happened, how you felt, and how you reacted. For example: “Meeting at work → felt anxious → skipped lunch.”

Over time, this record shows what situations affect you most and gives you a clearer picture of how your emotions connect to your choices. This awareness is the first step toward change.

STOP technique

When strong emotions arise, it’s easy to react on autopilot—snapping, shutting down, or saying something you’ll regret.

Use the STOP method to manage intense emotions. It helps you pause before reacting and choose a calmer response:

• Stop: pause what you’re doing. Don’t act right away.
• Take a step back: breathe deeply or step away from the situation.
• Observe: notice how you’re feeling, what you’re thinking, and what’s happening around you. Ask: “What am I feeling right now? What’s really going on here?”
• Proceed mindfully: move forward with more awareness. Ask: “What would be the most helpful way to respond?”

This quick reset helps you handle stress with more clarity and control.

Small, clear goals

Big tasks can feel overwhelming, which often leads to procrastination or frustration. Breaking goals into smaller steps makes them more manageable and less stressful.

A helpful way to do this is the SMART method:

• Specific: be clear about what you want to do (e.g., “Go for a 10-minute walk” instead of “exercise more”).
• Measurable: make sure you can track progress (check off something from a list when completed).
• Achievable: choose something realistic for your current energy and schedule.
• Relevant: pick a goal that matters to you.
• Time-bound: set a simple time frame (e.g., “before lunch” or “today”).

Writing goals this way makes them feel less intimidating. Keep your objectives visible (maybe using the notes app on your phone) and use short, encouraging self-talk (“One thing at a time”) to stay on track. Each SMART step builds confidence and momentum.

In this article, we’ll explain how to find a therapist who is trained to help people with PTSD.

We’ll provide an overview of two platforms that can help you find the professional support you need.

PTSD Therapy Near Me

If you’re looking for support for PTSD, online services are available that let you connect with a trauma counselor anywhere in the United States.

Below, we’ve explained two of the best places to find a qualified PTSD therapist.

1. BetterHelp

BetterHelp is an online therapy platform where you can connect with a licensed therapist for support with PTSD.

To find a therapist on BetterHelp, you’ll first need to create an account. Registration is simple: just click the “Get Started” button and provide some basic information about yourself. This includes selecting the issue(s) you need help with (such as PTSD), your state, preferred language, gender, age, and other details to help BetterHelp find the right counselor for you.

Based on your answers, the platform matches you with a licensed therapist. It’s easy to switch to a different therapist at any point in the future, if needed.

Once connected with a therapist, you’ll have one live therapy session per week, usually over a video or audio call, depending on what works best for you.

You can also message your therapist between sessions, in case something comes up that you want to address the next time you speak.

All this makes therapy very accessible if you’re dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder, because you can connect with a licensed therapist from home, and choose a therapy format that suits you.

The service has several advantages: it’s possible to receive help from anywhere in the United States, choose a convenient time for sessions, and communicate in a comfortable setting for you.

Plus, financial aid options are available for certain socioeconomic groups, including veterans, which can make therapy on this platform very affordable to access.

Keep in mind that online therapy may be less effective if you’re facing severe PTSD and intensive trauma work is required. In such situations, you may want to visit a therapist in person.

2. Mental Health Today

Here at Mental Health Today, we have an online directory where you can find therapists who work with post-traumatic stress disorder.

To find a qualified specialist in this area, you select the Filters button, then choose “Trauma and PTSD” under “Specialty”. After that, you can view a list of therapists who specialize specifically in this field.

The service is an online catalog of licensed therapists, including PTSD specialists. Each counselor has their own personal profile. When you visit a profile, you can check out their qualifications, experience working with PTSD, and licensing information.

This lets you compare a range of specialists and pick the one that’s best for your specific needs. On the therapist’s page, you can also see their contact details, the therapy format (online or in-person), and view their website to learn more about them.

The advantage of the directory is that it brings together hundreds of licensed therapists in one place, making it easy to find the right one for your needs, especially if you want to seek counseling in person.

The platform itself doesn’t run online sessions, since it’s just a catalog, but you can arrange a remote consultation on PTSD issues directly with the therapist you choose, if they support online counseling.

What to look for in a PTSD therapist

When you’re looking for a therapist to work with PTSD, it’s important to understand that different counselors may work in different ways, and an approach that suits one person may not suit another.

The first thing to pay attention to is the therapist’s experience with PTSD.

For example, some therapists specialize in working with veterans who’ve experienced combat, while others work with people who’ve faced violence or serious accidents. Knowing the specific type of trauma allows the therapist to better understand your experience and provide support that matches your situation.

The next thing to think about is the communication style. During your first trial session, pay attention to how well the therapist listens and asks clarifying questions.

A good counselor will explain what to expect from the sessions: for example, at first, the work will focus on creating a safe space and building trust, and then gradually move on to a deeper exploration of traumatic memories. You may notice that the therapist uses clear explanations of their methods and the progress you’re making, which helps you feel in control of the process.

Pay attention to how the therapist interacts with you on an emotional level. You may feel how comfortable it is to share difficult memories, whether you notice support and understanding, and whether there’s a sense that your feelings are accepted without judgment. If you feel discomfort, it’s better to think about switching therapists; otherwise, therapy may turn out to be ineffective.

It’s also important to pay attention to practical aspects. You may find it more convenient to choose a specialist who offers online sessions if in-person meetings feel difficult. It’s also worth considering therapist insurance coverage, or whether they offer sliding-scale pricing (based on your income) if you don’t have insurance and would struggle to afford paying out of pocket.

In the end, try to find a trauma therapist who displays professionalism, a strong understanding of PTSD, and attentiveness to your feelings. This type of approach can help you feel comfortable opening up, and makes the therapy process more manageable and structured.

How PTSD is treated in therapy

When you start working with a therapist on PTSD, the first few sessions are often dedicated to getting to know each other and creating a safe space for treatment to occur. The therapist can help you understand what’s happening to you, explain the effects of PTSD, and discuss your goals in therapy.

These first few sessions help you learn how comfortable it is to talk about the trauma with the therapist you’re seeing. They also help to build trust, which is a key element on which all further work is based.

In the next stage, therapy may include different approaches, depending on your needs.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often used, where you work with thoughts and beliefs that lead to anxiety, fear, or guilt. For example, in sessions, you may discuss situations that cause stress and gradually learn to look at them differently, replacing destructive thoughts with more realistic and supportive ones.

Another common technique to treat trauma symptoms is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which lets you reprocess traumatic memories through special eye movement techniques or stimulation. Some therapists also combine different therapeutic methods, tailoring them to your individual needs.

It’s important to remember that each therapy session is built with your comfort and condition in mind. Sometimes you may discuss memories directly, and sometimes sessions will be more about skills (such as what to do when difficult memories surface) and emotional stabilization. The therapist will explain that progress isn’t always linear, and that’s normal.

Working with PTSD in therapy combines emotional support, structured work with memories, and developing skills for managing your condition in everyday life. After several sessions, you may start to feel that distressing memories are less frightening, and managing your emotions becomes easier.

Is online PTSD therapy effective?

If you’re thinking about seeking online therapy for PTSD, it’s important to understand what to expect, and how this type of counseling differs from in-person meetings.

You may find online therapy to be a convenient solution, especially if it’s hard to make time to visit a therapist’s office, or if you have a busy schedule.

Online sessions let you work with a therapist through video or audio, which can create a sense of comfort, especially in the beginning. You can be at home, in a familiar environment, which sometimes reduces anxiety and helps you focus on the process.

The effectiveness of online therapy largely depends on which methods are used and how comfortable you feel communicating through a screen. For example:

• CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) adapts well to the online format, including working with thoughts and behavior patterns.
• EMDR can be conducted online if the therapist knows how to adapt the technique for a video session properly.
• Emotion regulation skills and mindfulness methods are often very effective online, since exercises are easy to do at home.

Some key advantages of online therapy:

• Flexible schedule and ability to choose a convenient time for each session, especially if you’re often busy at work or looking after your children.
• It’s easy to find a PTSD specialist in your state, even if you live in a small town or city.
• No need to spend time traveling.
• You can be in a comfortable, safe environment, which can make the therapy process easier, depending on your condition.

At the same time, it’s important to consider that online therapy can be harder if it’s difficult for you to focus on a screen, or if intensive work with traumatic memories is needed. It also may not be the best choice if you are struggling with severe PTSD symptoms.

However, in general, online PTSD therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling, provided this mode of therapy suits your needs, and a stable internet connection is available. This makes online therapy a real alternative, especially when convenience and accessibility matter.

Cost of PTSD therapy

The cost of PTSD therapy can vary greatly depending on the counseling format, the therapist’s qualifications, and the city/state where you live.

On average, a 50-60 minute in-person trauma-focused therapy session in the US will cost around $100 to $200. In large cities, prices can be higher, sometimes up to $300 per session with an experienced therapist.

Online therapy is often more affordable. Many platforms offer sessions on a plan that costs $60 to $150 per week, including one live therapy session, just like when seeing a counselor in person.

The online format can also help you to reduce other expenses, like travel to the office, transportation costs, and taking time off work.

If you would struggle to afford the cost of PTSD counseling, there are some ways to save money:

• Insurance coverage – many insurance plans partially or fully cover therapy for issues that affect your daily functioning, such as PTSD. It’s worth checking this information with your insurance company.
• Sliding scale fees – sometimes you can access therapy for a reduced price if you’re facing financial difficulties at the moment.
• Financial aid – BetterHelp for example offers discounts for veterans and other social groups, as well as people facing financial hardship.

Conclusion

Working with PTSD is a process that can affect not only the mind, but also the body and emotions. Sometimes the path to recovery may feel slow or unpredictable, and that’s completely normal.

Therapy for such trauma shouldn’t be based on achieving quick results; what matters more is that over time, you can start taking steps toward understanding your emotions, exploring your reactions to traumatic events, and improving your ability to cope with them.

If you’re still not sure how best to find a PTSD therapist, leave us a comment below, and we’ll help out.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can leave you feeling trapped in cycles of fear and ritual that disrupt daily life, strain relationships, and take away your peace of mind.

This guide will help you understand how to find a therapist who can help with OCD, near you or online.

1. BetterHelp

If you’re looking for a licensed OCD therapist, BetterHelp makes it simple to get started.

The platform connects you with experienced therapists—each with at least three years of experience—many of whom specialize in OCD and related conditions, such as body dysmorphic disorder and hoarding.

If you feel intense anxiety, shame, powerlessness, or low self-esteem, these therapists can help you work through those thoughts and emotions in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment.

Many also have training in trauma, depression, and anxiety disorders—giving you flexibility if your concerns overlap.

During sign-up, you’ll complete a short questionnaire about your challenges (e.g., OCD), goals, and preferences (e.g., female therapist).

Then, BetterHelp will match you with someone who can address your specific needs, such as fear of contamination (germs/dirt) or intrusive thoughts. If your first match doesn’t feel right, you can easily switch to another therapist.

BetterHelp offers several ways to connect, including video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and messaging—so you can choose what feels most comfortable.

You get one live therapy session per week, typically conducted via video call. If you’re struck by an intrusive thought for example in between sessions, you can send your therapist a message and address this the next time you meet.

BetterHelp offers weekly plans billed every four weeks, which you can cancel at any time. Insurance is not accepted, but financial aid is available—including support for veterans—which can make therapy more affordable and accessible.

If you’re seeking an OCD therapist, BetterHelp offers accessible care that can help you manage symptoms and ease distress.

2. Mental Health Today therapist directory

Our Mental Health Today therapist directory makes it simple to connect with licensed professionals who treat OCD. You can filter by specialty, state, therapy approach, or qualifications (e.g., PhD in counseling).

If you’re living with OCD, you may face distressing symptoms such as repetitive cleaning or checking, and symmetry/ordering.

Our directory helps you find a therapist experienced in helping with these challenges and, if important to you, one who also understands related concerns like trauma, depression, or anxiety.

Many providers bring added expertise in areas such as marriage and family counseling or stress management. This means your care can focus on OCD while also supporting your relationship and overall well-being as needed.

You also decide how you’d like to meet with therapists, either in-person or online, through video or phone sessions. This allows you to address your symptoms in a way that fits your lifestyle, using a therapy mode that’s most comfortable to you.

Costs are set directly by each therapist, so you’ll need to confirm fees and insurance coverage with providers. Some also offer sliding-scale pricing based on income, in case you would struggle to pay out of pocket.

If you’re seeking an OCD therapist, our directory is a practical place to begin—making specialized, compassionate care easy to access.

3. Online-Therapy.com

Online-Therapy.com is a structured platform built entirely around Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)—the leading evidence-based treatment for OCD.

Its approach combines live therapist support with structured CBT exercises you complete online, helping you work through obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors in a clear, guided process.

When you sign up, you’ll complete a short questionnaire about your symptoms, personal goals (e.g., improving self-esteem), and therapist preferences.

You can then choose how to connect with your therapist—either through video sessions, voice calls, or text messaging. The platform also provides an OCD-specific assessment to help you track patterns in your thoughts and behaviors.

What sets Online-Therapy.com apart is its therapist-guided CBT program. Once matched with a counselor, you’ll work through exercises that target the cycle of obsessions and compulsions.

For example, you can identify intrusive triggers, challenge unhelpful beliefs, and practice healthier responses. Your therapist provides feedback as you progress, combining self-paced learning with ongoing guidance.

In addition to therapy, the platform includes practical resources such as worksheets, journaling prompts, and even yoga videos, designed to reduce stress and promote emotional balance.

If you’re seeking an OCD therapist, Online-Therapy.com provides a clear, structured path toward managing symptoms and building long-term coping strategies.

How to choose an OCD therapist

Not all therapists specialize in OCD, and finding someone who does can make a big difference.

The problem is, it’s not always easy to find a therapist who can accurately diagnose and treat OCD. Research suggests that it normally takes 14 to 17 years from the onset of symptoms for OCD sufferers to receive proper treatment.

This delay happens for many reasons—including misdiagnosis, stigma, and the difficulty of finding therapists who specialize in OCD.

Qualifications and credentials

Start by confirming that your therapist is licensed. Common credentials include LPCs (Licensed Professional Counselors), LCSWs (Licensed Clinical Social Workers), or PhD/PsyD-level psychologists.

Most will have a master’s or doctoral degree in psychology or counseling. Some also pursue advanced training or certification in OCD-specific methods such as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) or CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).

Experience and approach

Experience matters—especially with OCD. It can be a good idea to ask a therapist about OCD cases they’ve treated, and whether they specialize in ERP, CBT or ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, a form of CBT).  

During these types of treatments, a skilled therapist will guide you through controlled exposure experiences, helping you confront fears without relying on compulsions.

For example, if you struggle with contamination fears, they may design an exposure where you touch a doorknob and delay washing your hands, helping you learn that anxiety fades over time.

Building a therapeutic relationship 

Credentials matter, but connection matters more. Look for a therapist who helps you feel safe, heard, and respected.

OCD often brings shame, so compassion and patience are essential. If you sense judgment or dismissiveness, it might not be the right fit.

Practical considerations

Think about location, scheduling, and whether online therapy is available. Many people with OCD prefer teletherapy—both for convenience and because it can allow you to face obsessions (exposures) in real-life settings, rather than in an unfamiliar, clinical environment.

Costs and insurance coverage vary, so ask about fees upfront, and whether financial aid is available, if you’re on a lower income or struggling with high expenses at the moment.

It’s often a good idea to use your first session as a consultation. Ask about the therapist’s experience with OCD, their therapeutic approach, and how they measure progress.

This helps set expectations and gives you a feel for whether they’re the right fit for your recovery.

How to know when it might be worth seeing an OCD therapist

Everyone has the occasional unwanted thought or quirky habit. You double-check the door or feel the urge to line up items—and then move on.

For people with OCD, though, these thoughts and behaviors become overwhelming. Clinicians often use the “four Ds” to explain the difference:

• Deviance—thoughts or behaviors that feel outside cultural or personal norms.
• Distress—causing significant anxiety, guilt, or shame.
• Dysfunction—interfering with work, relationships, or daily life.
• Danger—posing a risk to yourself or others.

If your experiences fall into these areas, it may be time to connect with an OCD therapist.

Obsessions: distressing, intrusive thoughts

A key sign therapy could help is the presence of obsessions—distressing, repetitive, persistent thoughts, ideas, images, or impulses that feel outside your control and cause considerable anxiety.

These are not just everyday worries. They may include fear of contamination (such as germs, disease, or dirt), intrusive violent or sexual images, or thoughts of harming someone.

The more you try to suppress these thoughts, the stronger the anxiety becomes.

Compulsions: rituals that take over

OCD also involves compulsions—repetitive behaviors or mental acts done to relieve anxiety or “neutralize” a fear.

These might include actions like repeated handwashing, checking, counting, or silently repeating phrases.

While compulsions may bring short-term relief, they often reinforce the cycle—taking up more time and energy.

Time and daily impact

One red flag is when obsessions and compulsions take up more than one hour each day. Even if it feels manageable, the toll on your focus, mood, and quality of life can begin to add up.

Emotional distress and secrecy

OCD often brings shame. You might feel disturbed by your thoughts or hide your rituals out of fear that others won’t understand.

If you feel powerless, embarrassed, or isolated because of these patterns, this is a strong sign that professional support could help.

Overlap with other conditions

OCD often co-occurs with depression, anxiety, or trauma. For example, compulsions may drain your day and leave you feeling hopeless, or you might avoid relationships out of fear of judgment.

When OCD coexists with other conditions, the distress can deepen—and therapy becomes even more essential.

Taking the step toward help

Not every unwanted thought or habit means you have OCD. But if obsessions and compulsions feel persistent, distressing, and disruptive, reaching out for professional help can make a real difference.

How OCD is treated in therapy

Many people with OCD worry, “Am I going to be like this forever?” The good news is that OCD is highly treatable.

While it may not disappear completely, effective therapy can significantly reduce symptoms, improve daily function, and help you regain a sense of control. 

Treatment is about learning to manage OCD so it no longer runs your life—and understanding how your thoughts feed the cycle is the first step.

Research shows people with OCD often:

• Hold themselves to very high moral or behavioral standards. For example: “If I accidentally offend someone, I’m a bad person.”
• Believe unwanted thoughts are dangerous or equal to actions (a view called thought-action fusion, or TAF). For example: “If I think about harming someone, it means I might actually do it.”
• Feel they should have complete control over their mind and behavior. For example: “If I can’t stop this thought, something is seriously wrong with me.”

These beliefs make OCD feel urgent and unmanageable—but therapy targets them directly.

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): facing your fears without rituals

ERP is widely recognized as the most effective form of therapy for OCD. ‘Exposure’ means gradually facing your fear, regardless of whether it’s an item, a place, or even a loved one who brings up anxiety.

‘Response prevention’ involves choosing not to do the rituals or mental habits that usually follow, like repeating a phrase, saying a prayer, finding a distraction, or mentally arguing with the thought.

The key is to stay with the anxiety without doing anything to neutralize it.

For example, if you have OCD around checking, you might feel the urge to repeatedly confirm that you have locked the front door. An exposure would be locking the door once, then leaving without going back to check. The response prevention is resisting the urge to return or mentally replay whether you locked it. Over time, your brain learns that nothing bad happens even without performing the ritual.

As you repeat this over time, your brain learns it doesn’t need rituals to feel safe—and the anxiety naturally fades.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): understanding and reframing unhelpful thoughts

CBT helps people with OCD understand how their beliefs about intrusive thoughts fuel the cycle of thinking and compulsion.

It’s not the presence of a disturbing thought that causes distress—it’s how the thought is interpreted.

For example, you might believe that simply having a bad thought makes it more likely to come true, or that skipping a ritual means you want something harmful to happen.

CBT teaches you to challenge these interpretations by examining the evidence: Have you ever acted on these thoughts? Are thoughts the same as actions?

Through guided exercises, you learn to replace irrational interpretations with more balanced and realistic ones. By changing how you view these thoughts, they begin to feel less threatening.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): accept what you can’t control

ACT takes a different approach from traditional CBT. Instead of trying to get rid of intrusive thoughts, ACT helps you change your relationship with them.

You learn that thoughts don’t have to control your actions, and that you can still live according to your values, even when feeling anxious.

For example, even if a scary thought pops up, you can still choose to go about living your life, rather than disengaging in order to feel safe.

ACT uses tools like mindfulness, acceptance, and setting meaningful goals based on what matters to you, which helps you become more flexible in how you handle anxiety.

This means being able to stay present, handle difficult emotions, and make choices that move your life in a meaningful direction.

A psychodynamic perspective

Some therapists take a deeper look at the emotional roots of OCD. This approach sees obsessions and compulsions as ways of coping with inner conflict or anxiety.

These struggles are not buried in your unconscious—they often show up in your day-to-day thoughts and rituals.

Exploring these patterns can help you understand how deeper emotional issues may be driving your OCD.

While not a first-line treatment, psychodynamic therapy can be helpful—especially when OCD overlaps with other emotional struggles. It often works best alongside ERP or CBT.

Other helpful tools

In addition to core therapies, many clinicians use supportive strategies, such as:

• Mindfulness and relaxation training to reduce overall stress and improve tolerance of anxiety.
• Family involvement to help loved ones understand OCD and avoid unhelpful reactions or participation in rituals.
• Journaling or mood tracking to notice progress and setbacks over time.

Drug therapy

Some people with OCD benefit from medication, often alongside therapy. The most common are SSRIs—antidepressants that increase serotonin levels in the brain.

They don’t “cure” OCD, but can make therapy more effective. A psychiatrist can help you decide if medication is right for your symptoms and goals.

Online vs in-person OCD therapy

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, therapy has become more accessible, with many people now meeting their therapists online.

But if you’re dealing with OCD, you might wonder: is virtual therapy as effective as in-person care?     

For many people, yes—online therapy can work just as well as in-person therapy, especially for conditions like OCD.

In-person therapy offers structure and a strong sense of presence. Being in the same room helps your therapist notice body language, facial expressions, and other cues that guide the session.

Some people also find it easier to face anxiety triggers when someone is physically nearby to support them.

But in-person care isn’t always a practical solution. If you live in a rural area or can’t find a local OCD specialist, you may struggle to access consistent support. Travel time, work schedules, and family duties can also make it difficult to maintain regular appointments.

Online therapy removes many of these barriers. You can connect with a licensed OCD therapist by video, phone, or messaging, from the comfort of your home.

For example, you might schedule weekly ERP sessions and send updates between appointments to track progress or flag concerns.

And for some, meeting from home can be very helpful—especially if your OCD includes fears around leaving the house, contamination, or being judged. The privacy and control of online sessions can feel safer as you begin therapy.

However, online therapy isn’t right for everyone. Tech issues can disrupt sessions, and if your OCD symptoms feel overwhelming or unsafe, in-person care may offer more stability and support.

Conclusion

OCD isn’t something that’s simply “cured”—but it is highly treatable. If you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone, and you’re not broken.

A qualified therapist can help you manage symptoms, challenge unhelpful patterns, and regain a sense of peace and control in your life.

If you’re not sure how best to find an OCD therapist near you, leave us a comment below, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

While progress has been made to reduce stigma in recent years, people experiencing depression, anxiety, psychosis, or other conditions often still face judgment and even discrimination.

The stigma doesn’t just harm an individual’s self-esteem, but it also can delay or prevent them from seeking treatment, increase their social isolation and lead to a worsening of their symptoms.

What is mental health stigma?

Stigma refers to prejudice, stereotypes, and discriminatory behavior directed toward people who struggle with their mental health.

It’s not just about labels or definitions, but about subtle and sometimes not so subtle ways people may be judged, misunderstood, or excluded when they live with a mental health condition or seek help for it.

Stigma can be visible in conversations where somebody makes a comment such as “just get over it” to a person struggling with depression, or in workplaces where employees hide their struggles in order to avoid being seen as less capable.

Another example of stigma is in certain families or relationships where nobody talks about their emotions, and mental health struggles are characterized as “phases that will pass.” Even in some communities and cultures, talking openly about mental health may be seen as a sign of weakness or something that can bring shame to the family.

Perhaps the most visible and influential example is how media and TV shows sometimes portray people who struggle with their mental health as “dangerous” or “unpredictable,” reinforcing stereotypes surrounding mental health.

The impact of stigma

Stigma has real consequences, which go beyond hurt feelings or judgmental looks. It can change the way people live their lives in ways that make healing and recovery more difficult.

For many, the fear of being judged or labeled can lead to delays in seeking help. Someone might hesitate to reach out for therapy, medication, or even supportive conversations because they are worried about how others will react.

Stigma can also affect self-esteem and hope. Negative stereotypes and dismissive attitudes can make individuals question their own worth and their ability to recover. This constant stress doesn’t just weigh on the emotions, but it can also worsen existing symptoms, pushing people into a cycle where their condition becomes even harder to manage.

Relationships feel the impact too. Many individuals hide their struggles from family or friends out of fear of being misunderstood or judged, but that secrecy can strain communication, leaving them even more isolated.

The workplace is another setting where stigma can create difficulties. People may avoid asking for accommodations or keep silent about their challenges, potentially leading to a crisis, such as a panic attack or emotional breakdown.

On a broader scale, stigma shapes how society treats mental health. When mental health is seen as less important or even shameful, funding also lags behind, leading to fewer services, long wait times, and limited access to care. It can also affect how programs are designed, leaving gaps in insurance coverage, workplace protections, and community support. In this way, stigma doesn’t just affect individuals directly, but it also influences the systems that are supposed to help them.

By understanding all the impacts stigma can have, it becomes clearer why addressing this issue is not only about changing public attitudes, but also supporting individuals’ well-being and the recovery of people who struggle with their mental health.

How to manage and overcome stigma

While stigma can feel overwhelming, there are practical steps you can take to reduce its impact.

Build self-awareness

Recognize when shame or judgment is creeping in. Remind yourself that having a mental health condition is not a personal failure but a part of being human.

Reframing is often helpful. For example, instead of thinking “I’m broken,” think “I’m somebody managing a condition, just like people manage asthma or diabetes.”

Practice self-compassion

Being kind to yourself when you feel negatively about your mental health is one of the most powerful antidotes to self-stigma.

Self-compassion strategies may include journaling, mindfulness exercises, or even speaking to yourself the way you would to a friend who might be struggling with the same issues.

Educate and share stories

One of the most effective ways to fight stigma is through education and open conversation.

Learn about your condition and its effects, and share your own story and journey, whether in support groups, with friends, or in safe online communities. This helps normalize mental health challenges, break down stereotypes, and reduce isolation.

Seek professional support

If stigma makes it difficult to reach out for help, remember that therapists, counselors and doctors are trained to provide care without judgment.

Therapy can be a safe place to talk about feelings of shame and fear, learn coping strategies, and rebuild confidence. If reaching out seems overwhelming, engaging in anonymous support groups or using helplines can be a more gentle first step.

Celebrate small steps

Small achievements such as booking an appointment, opening up to somebody for the first time, or sticking with treatment for a week are worth acknowledging.

Remind yourself that each step, no matter how small it may seem, is an act of courage. Celebrating progress will help you build motivation and overcome stigma.

Find role models

Many public figures, actors, athletes, and even politicians have shared their own mental health journeys. Reading or listening to their stories can help reduce feelings of shame and remind you that recovery is always possible.

Further resources

• Love, Your Mind – a campaign with a focus on promoting well-being and reducing stigma, offering educational resources, inspiration and community.
• Stop Stigma Together – provides education and community initiatives for breaking stigma.
• This is My Brave – shares real stories of recoveries in order to encourage and normalize mental health conversations.
• Stamp Out Stigma – an initiative encouraging people to recognize and talk openly about mental illness.
• Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) – “Do Your Share” campaign (mental health stigma reduction campaign).

Common manifestations of psychosis include hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking, all of which significantly affect daily functioning.

It’s important to note that psychosis is not a disorder on its own, but rather a feature that can be present in several mental health conditions.

Common symptoms and disorders

According to DSM-5, psychotic symptoms include delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking and speech, grossly disorganized or abnormal motor behavior, and other negative symptoms (meaning, instead of leading to abnormal experiences like hallucinations or delusions, psychosis can take away normal emotional and behavioral capacities).

Understanding these categories helps clinicians and caregivers recognize psychotic experiences early and respond appropriately.

Delusions are firmly held false beliefs.

They can come in different themes, depending on an individual’s experience:

• Persecutory delusions are beliefs an individual has that somebody is either spying on them or plotting against them.
• Grandiose delusions are beliefs that they hold a special power, knowledge, insight, discovery, or relationship with a deity.
• Erotomanic delusions include convictions of another person, often someone important or famous, being deeply in love with them, sometimes leading to attempts to contact that person or stalking them.
• Somatic delusions are focused on a belief that they have some sort of medical problem or defect, for example, missing a body part or having insects inside their body.
• Nihilistic delusions typically involve a belief that a major catastrophe will occur.
• Bizarre delusions usually involve beliefs that somebody has control over their mind or body in some way. For example, believing that their thoughts have been “removed” by aliens (thought extraction) or that alien thoughts have been put inside their mind (thought insertion). Another example is believing an outside force has full control of their body and actions (delusions of control).

It’s important to note that due to cultural differences, delusions can sometimes be hard to notice. For example, beliefs in spirits or witchcraft may be considered delusional in some places but are viewed as normal in others.

Hallucinations are involuntary sensory experiences that occur without external stimuli. They can be auditory (ex. hearing voices, music, or footsteps), visual (ex. seeing things that aren’t there), tactile (ex. feeling bugs crawling on your body), olfactory (ex. experiencing smells that nobody else can experience) or gustatory (ex. strange and unpleasant tastes).

Disorganized thinking and speech can manifest in different forms:

• Loose association is characterized by an individual switching from one topic to another.
• Tangential speech, which involves an individual answering a question with a completely unrelated answer.
• Incoherence or “word salad”—severely disorganized speech that is almost or completely incomprehensible. 

Grossly disorganized or abnormal motor behavior (including catatonia) can be characterized by a wide range of presentations, from childlike behavior to unpredictable agitation, leading to problems with goal-directed behavior and daily functioning. In addition, catatonia can lead to a significant decrease in reactivity to the environment.

It can manifest in different forms, such as:

• Negativism – resistance to instructions.
• Bizarre or inappropriate posture.
• Mutism and stupor – complete absence of verbal and motor responses.
• Catatonic excitement – purposeless and excessive motor activity.

Negative symptoms refer to reductions in normal functioning, which can be difficult to recognize. Different types are:

• Affective flattening, characterized by limited emotional expressions, where an individual’s face may seem unresponsive.
• Alogia reflects diminished thought processes through reduced speech or brief replies.
• Avolition is the absence of motivation, which makes daily tasks difficult.
• Anhedonia refers to the inability to experience pleasure from activities an individual once enjoyed.
• Social withdrawal is characterized by difficulty initiating and maintaining relationships.

Psychosis can manifest in different disorders, however it is prominent in: Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Delusional Disorder, Schizophreniform Disorder, Brief Psychotic Disorder, Schizotypal Personality Disorder, Catatonia associated with another mental health disorder or medical condition, and Substance or Medication Induced Psychotic Disorder.

Other disorders such as Bipolar and Major Depressive Disorder can have psychotic features, however they usually occur during mood episodes.

Treatment

Due to the complexity of psychotic symptoms, effective treatment includes a combination of psychotherapy and medication, each depending on the presented symptoms and diagnosis.

Medication

Antipsychotics are the first-line treatment for schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and psychotic features in mood disorders. They target dopamine pathways in the brain in order to reduce delusions and hallucinations.

Typical options include risperidone, olanzapine, and aripiprazole. In addition, mood stabilizers and antidepressants are used when psychosis occurs alongside mood disorders.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy can be very useful in the treatment of psychotic symptoms, however this treatment method must be approached with care.

Therapists usually avoid challenging symptoms directly because it can lead to the opposite of the intended effect, with individuals feeling threatened or provoked. Instead, therapists focus on building trust, improving coping skills, and helping patients feel empowered and recognized.

Some evidence-based approaches in the management of psychotic symptoms include:

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps individuals recognize early signs of relapse, reduce distress, and improve daily functioning. 
• Family therapy aims to educate and support family members.
• Social Skills Training enhances communication and daily functioning.

Hospitalization can be necessary in cases of acute psychosis or safety risk, in order to stabilize and monitor the patient’s symptoms.

Additional resources

• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – Understanding Psychosis
• American Psychiatric Association (APA) – Schizophrenia
• Early Psychosis Intervention Network (EPINET) – A national initiative connecting community-based psychosis treatment programs and research hubs
• Massachusetts General Hospital – Psychosis Clinical and Research Program

Emotional memories are different from ordinary memories in the sense that they capture the raw feelings of shame, pain, and sadness of the original experience. Even years later, reminders of these memories can trigger the same powerful reaction. EMM doesn’t erase the memory of what happened, but weakens its emotional charge, making the memory less disruptive in daily life. 

Why emotional memories linger

When we go through distressing events, the brain encodes both the facts and the feelings associated with what happened. This is why a certain smell, song, or phrase can bring up overwhelming emotions.

While this helps us learn from danger (ex. not touching a hot stove), unresolved emotional memories can keep people trapped in old cycles of fear, guilt, or suspicion.

How EMM works

The goal of Emotional Memory Management is to separate the emotion from the memory, by thinking of each experience as a file stored in our memory. The central idea is that these emotional “files” can be changed with practice by watering them down, reframing them, and reducing their emotional grip. The memory of the event remains, but the overwhelming feelings tied to it lose their intensity.

EMM helps people gain control over their emotional responses by managing how past memories or files influence the present. By reorganizing, relabeling, and reframing these memories, individuals can reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, and respond more calmly in challenging situations.

The general process involves:

• Bringing the memory to awareness in a safe and controlled way.
• Acknowledging the feelings that surface without pushing them away.
• Shifting the focus from reliving the pain to reprocessing the memory in a calmer, more objective state.

Over time, this process retrains the brain to view the memory differently.

Techniques for managing emotional files

File awareness

When there is a visible shift in mood, seemingly out of nowhere, a good place to start is to ask “What file is in use?”—meaning, which memory has been dug up.

This simple awareness step helps recognize feelings that come from emotional memories, and not necessarily current reality. This can also be useful to do with a partner. Learning to recognize each other’s “bad files” and gently let each other know when they come out can help you avoid unnecessary conflict.

Physical interruption

If a painful memory begins to surface, doing something physical like adjusting your posture or touching an object nearby can be a reminder of the present moment, stopping the memory file from fully playing out.

Categorizing the past

Putting all of the bad memories in a single file cabinet and labeling it, for example “My tough years,” can prevent a person from getting stuck reliving every painful memory.

Pairing memory with positive contexts and imagination

Pulling up the painful memory (file) while listening to uplifting music, resting in the sun, or watching something entertaining can gradually blend new associations into the memory, lowering the negative feelings it carries.

In addition, the brain doesn’t distinguish well between real and imagined experience, so imagining a way to handle a situation differently or rewriting the whole experience can also be beneficial.

Adding humor

Humor is one of the best “contaminators.” If a bad memory resurfaces, it can be helpful to find something absurd and ironic about it, even make it up. Rehearsing how events could have unfolded in a funny way breaks the seriousness of the file, reducing its emotional weight.

Reframing the past

When an old memory resurfaces, saying to yourself “I don’t live that way anymore” or “Those times are over” creates a distance between who somebody was and who they are now.

Pulling the right file

You can have “good files” at hand, such as memories of precious moments, so that when a bad file is triggered, it can be replaced with the good one. A useful tip could be having photos of happy memories nearby, so it’s easier to remember positive moments.

On the other hand, it can be beneficial to sometimes pull out the bad files, especially for those struggling with substance abuse.

Drugs and alcohol often create “good files” in the brain due to their chemical effects, while the negative consequences are pushed aside. By deliberately pulling out the difficult part of that memory, such as the impact substance use had on a loved one, you can lower the automatic appeal the drug has and increase the motivation to stay sober.

Whether the abuse comes from a partner, a parent, or another family member, survivors often feel like they have done something to cause it or contribute to it. This misplaced guilt makes it harder to recognize abuse for what it is, and it leads to victims being stuck in a vicious cycle of violence.

Understanding why guilt arises and what triggers it is a crucial part of the recovery process.

Why guilt emerges

Manipulation and blame shifting

Abusers often twist situations so the victims feel responsible for their outbursts and mistreatment. Over time, this creates a pattern of self-doubt, for example, thinking “If I had been quieter, maybe they wouldn’t have gotten angry.”

This belief is based on conditioning and not the reality of the situation. The abuse is never the victim’s fault, yet the abuser makes the victim feel guilty.

Emotional attachment and protectiveness

Many victims still love or care for the person hurting them. Instead of wanting to leave, they may hope things will improve.

Therefore, even at the thought of leaving, they may feel guilty for thinking of abandoning somebody they care about. The bond may lead to victims believing they are responsible for “saving” or “fixing” that person.

Shame and internalized blame

Guilt may lead to feelings of shame, as victims may feel like there is something wrong with who they are. They may feel flawed or believe they deserve what’s happening to them. These feelings and beliefs can be especially powerful in people who have experienced abuse in their childhood.

Growing up in an environment of constant neglect, abuse, and criticism can make self-blame feel natural. If abuse happens again later in life, the mind can go back to the same old pattern of self-blame.

Moving beyond guilt

Recognize where the guilt comes from

Ask yourself what is the source of the guilt you feel. Does it reflect your own values, or was it placed there by someone else’s manipulation?

If you are a survivor of childhood abuse, it can be helpful to reflect on these early experiences and see if the guilt feels familiar. Recognizing that this pattern of self-blame may have begun long before the current relationship started can make it easier for you to see it as a form of conditioning, rather than the truth. Simply naming the source can help with recognizing what belongs to you and what doesn’t.

Reframe responsibility

Abuse happens because of the abuser’s choice, not because you did or didn’t do something. When guilt creeps in, try allowing yourself to reframe the thought of “I made them do this” to “They chose this behavior themselves.”

If you start feeling guilty for remaining in the relationship for so long, it can help to remember that staying longer doesn’t mean you caused the abuse. It means that you probably weren’t ready to leave, or you didn’t feel safe and secure enough to make that choice at the time.

The belief that leaving is the same as abandoning the other person can be reframed into a healthier view, such as “Taking care of myself is not abandonment, it’s survival.”

Allow yourself to feel without judging

When the abuse happens, it is completely normal to feel conflicted emotions.

When guilt emerges, instead of fighting it, try to acknowledge it as a feeling and not a fact. Remind yourself that those feelings are temporary and they don’t define your worth.

Build supportive relationships

Talking with trusted friends, support groups, or professionals can provide you with a new perspective on life and the abusive relationship.

Psychotherapy can help with distorted beliefs and provide you with knowledge of the manipulation tactics abusers use. Additionally, support groups can offer validation from others who have lived through the same experience, reducing the feelings of isolation that often fuel guilt.

Hearing someone else describe the same guilt you feel can make you realize how misplaced that guilt truly is.

Practice compassion toward yourself

Healing takes time, and it requires you to replace self-criticism with kindness.

A useful step is to ask yourself if you would blame a loved one if they were in the same situation. If the answer is no, then you should give yourself the same level of understanding.

Remember, guilt is not a sign of weakness, but a predictable response to years of manipulation and control, and it doesn’t have to define your healing journey.

A Christian grief counselor can help you process these painful emotions, drawing on both psychological tools and spiritual resources—such as prayer, scripture, and the hope of eternal life.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to find a Christian grief counselor, what qualities to look for in a therapist, and what to expect during the process of getting help.

1. BetterHelp

BetterHelp is an online platform that connects you with licensed therapists who have at least three years of experience—including many Christian counselors who specialize in grief and bereavement.

These professionals combine research-backed therapy approaches with an understanding of your faith, helping you work through loss in ways that strengthen both your emotional and spiritual well-being.

When you sign up, you’ll complete an intake questionnaire where you can indicate that you’re seeking a Christian counselor. You can also share the main concerns you’d like to work on—such as grief, anxiety, family struggles, or spiritual doubt.  

In addition, there are further preferences you can specify, such as the therapist’s counseling background or gender. 

A BetterHelp plan includes one live therapy appointment per week (usually via a video call, if that works for you), plus unlimited messaging with your counselor in between sessions. 

This structure makes it easier to share difficult emotions as they arise by texting your counselor, rather than having to wait for your next appointment to discuss these issues. 

For example, you might message your counselor during a wave of sadness or when questions about faith and loss come up. Then, you can explore these concerns more deeply in your scheduled session.

If the first Christian therapist you’re matched with doesn’t feel like a good fit, BetterHelp makes it simple to switch counselors at a later stage.

The exact cost of BetterHelp depends on factors such as your location and therapist availability, but it is generally cheaper than seeing a therapist in person once a week.

Health insurance plans are not accepted on the platform, but financial aid options are available if you would struggle to afford paying out of pocket.

2. Mental Health Today Therapist Directory

Our Mental Health Today Therapist Directory makes it easy to connect with licensed mental health professionals by filtering based on specialty—allowing you to find Christian counselors in your state that specialize in helping with grief.

If you’re facing bereavement-related challenges—such as overwhelming sadness, loss of purpose, strained relationships, or crises of faith—and want to bring God into your healing journey, the directory can help you find the right counselor to do this.

Many mental health professionals listed in the directory also bring additional expertise—for example, in marriage and family counseling or trauma recovery—so your care can address grief while also supporting your relationships and overall well-being in a faith-based way.

You can choose to meet with a counselor face-to-face, or select a therapist who offers the flexibility of online sessions, depending on what fits your needs best. 

For instance, in an online session, you might process painful emotions while your counselor offers prayer or reflects on scripture to bring comfort.

Because each provider sets their own rates, you’ll need to contact them directly about fees, insurance coverage, and availability. You won’t be matched with a therapist automatically, like you are on BetterHelp.

3. Christian Counselor Directory

The Christian Counselor Directory is an online platform dedicated to showcasing professional and pastoral therapists who integrate clinical training with Christian faith.

Counselors listed in the directory must hold at least a graduate degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field, and most are board-certified or state-licensed. 

You can search for a counselor by ZIP code, state, or distance to find providers near you.

Each therapist profile highlights key details about them, including their credentials, areas of focus (such as grief, trauma, or marriage counseling), and how the counselor integrates Christian faith into their practice.

Sessions are available by phone, video, or in person, depending on the therapist you connect with.

Depending on your needs, therapy may emphasize evidence-based counseling techniques, faith-based support, or a blend of both.

For example, a grief counselor may integrate prayer and scripture alongside approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or psychodynamic methods to help with depression or anxiety.

Payment is arranged directly with providers, and can vary significantly depending on your state, and the counselor’s experience.

The problem is, in some areas, you might struggle to find a Christian counselor who specializes in grief on this platform. The directory doesn’t have as many Christian therapists available as BetterHelp does at the moment.

What to look for in a Christian counselor

When choosing a Christian grief counselor, it’s important to find someone who blends clinical expertise with faith-based care. 

The right counselor will help you work through the painful emotions of grief using an evidence-based approach, while honoring your Christian values and beliefs. 

Qualifications and credentials

Start by confirming that your counselor is licensed. Common types of qualified therapists include Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC), Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW), and psychologists (PhD/PsyD).

Most mental health professionals also hold a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or psychology, sometimes with additional training in grief support.

Experience and approach

Experience matters—especially when it comes to bereavement. Ask about the counselor’s background in helping people with grief, complicated grief, or trauma.

Explore how they integrate faith: do they lean more toward biblical counseling, or do they combine prayer and scripture with approaches like CBT or psychodynamic therapy? 

Finding a style that resonates with you can make the process more meaningful and effective. 

Integration of faith and psychology

Christian grief counseling blends spiritual and clinical tools. This may include prayer, scripture, or simply having a faith-informed perspective while using evidence-based techniques. 

A good counselor respects your beliefs and lets you determine to what extent spirituality is emphasized.

Building a therapeutic relationship

Credentials matter, but the relationship is what brings real healing. Choose a counselor who helps you feel safe, heard, and respected.

Trust, empathy, and compassion are key—if you sense judgment, it’s likely not the right fit.

Practical considerations

Check whether the counselor’s location, hours, or mode(s) of therapy work for you. For example, you may prefer online counseling if you’re busy with work or family responsibilities.

Ask about their fees, insurance coverage, and financial aid options (such as sliding-scale pricing, based on your income).

Use the first session as a consultation to ask questions and learn about their treatment approach, faith integration, and communication style. 

This not only clarifies expectations, but also gives you the chance to decide if the counselor feels like the right companion for your healing journey.  

What to expect from grief counseling

Grief counseling is not about “fixing” your pain—it’s about supporting you as you move through loss at your own pace.

Grief often generates a mix of emotions—sadness, anger, guilt, even moments of relief—that can feel overwhelming without guidance.

One helpful framework is Worden’s Four Tasks of Mourning.

These aren’t rigid steps, but touchstones you may return to during your journey:

1. Accepting the reality of loss: facing the fact that your loved one is gone.
2. Working through the pain of grief: allowing yourself to feel and express deep emotions instead of suppressing them.
3. Adjusting to life without your loved one: finding new roles (such as in the household), routines, and sources of support.
4. Maintaining a connection while moving forward: keeping memories alive in healthy ways while re-engaging with life. 

Different therapeutic approaches can help with these tasks. For example, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy can help to ease feelings of guilt or self-blame.

Narrative therapy helps you reshape your story in a more neutral/positive light, and existential or meaning-centered therapy encourages you to find new purpose in life.

Art therapy or psychodynamic therapy may also open other paths of expression. Social models of grief can also remind us that healing isn’t only individual—your relationships, community, and faith play a central role. 

If you work with a Christian grief counselor, you may also encounter different styles of Christian counseling:

• Biblical counseling relies heavily on scripture and prayer as primary therapeutic tools.
• Pastoral counseling, often rooted in church contexts, blends spiritual care with emotional guidance.
• Christian psychology integrates evidence-based techniques with faith-based insights.

For example, you might reflect on a biblical passage about comfort in mourning and explore how it speaks to your situation. 

Research shows that integrating faith in this way during counseling can strengthen your resilience during bereavement, offering meaning and comfort as you work on moving forward through grief (Murchison, 2024).

Online vs in-person Christian counseling

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of Americans receiving psychotherapy has risen by 30%, as virtual sessions have become a lot more normalized.

This shift raises an important question: can online counseling truly match the benefits of sitting with a counselor face-to-face—especially for the sensitive and spiritual work of Christian grief counseling?

In-person Christian counseling offers the advantage of physical presence. Being in the same room allows your counselor to notice nonverbal cues such as facial expressions or body language, which may reveal emotions that are hard to express verbally.

A dedicated space outside your home can also feel like a sanctuary, and for some, praying or reflecting on scripture in person carries a deeper sense of intimacy.

However, in-person counseling isn’t always practical. Christian grief counselors may be hard to find in rural or underserved areas, and barriers like travel time, work schedules, or childcare responsibilities can make regular attendance difficult, making the therapy process ineffective.

Online Christian counseling helps to overcome many of these challenges. It allows you to connect with a licensed counselor from home, with options for video, phone, or messaging-based counseling sessions—though video calls are the most common approach.

For example, you might schedule weekly video sessions for in-depth conversations and send a brief message midweek if a wave of sadness or spiritual doubt rises.

Online sessions are often cheaper than seeing a therapist in person, especially on platforms like BetterHelp, and many providers offer financial aid to make therapy more affordable.

Still, online therapy has its limitations. Platforms like BetterHelp are generally not covered by insurance, and in moments of severe distress or crisis, in-person support may feel safer and more grounding. 

Cost of Christian grief counseling in the U.S.

Like most types of therapy in the U.S., the cost of Christian counseling can vary widely, depending on several factors. 

While the average price of private sessions has been rising in recent years, Christian counseling itself is not inherently more expensive than other forms of therapy.

Typically, you can expect to pay $100-$250 per session for grief counseling in the U.S., with therapy normally occurring once a week.

Factors that influence the cost of therapy 

• Experience and credentials: more experienced counselors or those with advanced training (such as psychologists) may charge higher rates.
• Type of counseling: individual sessions cost less than couples or family counseling.
• Mode of delivery: online counseling is often more affordable than in-person sessions, particularly on subscription-based platforms.
• Insurance coverage: some Christian counselors accept insurance, lowering out-of-pocket costs, while others are private-pay only.
• Location: urban areas tend to have higher rates than smaller towns or rural settings.
• Intern programs: some counseling centers offer reduced-rate sessions with supervised interns, making counseling more accessible. 

Examples of options

• BetterHelp offers weekly plans, billed every four weeks. While insurance isn’t accepted, financial aid—including support for veterans—is available, which can make therapy more affordable.
• Mental Health Today Therapist Directory—costs are set directly by each therapist, so you’ll need to contact providers to confirm their fees and insurance they accept. Some also offer sliding-scale pricing, meaning the cost is based on your income.
• Christian Counselor Directory—each counselor profile lists payment details, which may include whether they accept insurance or provide sliding-scale options. For more specifics, you need to reach out directly.

Conclusion

Christian grief counseling offers more than emotional support—it nurtures your faith and strengthens your connection with God during times of loss. 

By drawing on scripture, prayer, and proven therapeutic tools, a counselor can guide you toward healthier ways of coping and help you replace painful thoughts and emotions with more healthy perspectives.

If you’re still not sure how best to find a Christian counselor to help with your grief, leave us a comment below, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

These symptoms can make ordinary conversations frightening, threatening, and overwhelming for both the patient and their caregiver.

When working with patients experiencing psychotic symptoms, it is important to use a structured communication approach that emphasizes clarity and empathy.

Build trust first

Trust lays the groundwork for every therapeutic relationship. Patients experiencing psychosis may feel suspicious or fearful, so rapport must be built slowly. You can:

• Start the session with neutral, non-threatening topics (ex. “How has your sleep been?” instead of “Why do you think people are after you?”). 
• Maintain calm body language and tone of voice. Therapy will be the patient’s safe space, so your presence needs to be calming. For example, you can sit at their level (rather than standing over them), avoid sudden movements, and respect their personal space.
• Use the patient’s name regularly in order to foster recognition and respect.
• Allow for silence to happen. Some people may need extra time to process information and respond without feeling pressured. For example, a patient who is hesitant to speak may feel safer and become more open if you allow pauses and gently prompt them with “take your time, I’m listening.”

Listen without confronting delusions

Directly challenging a psychotic patient’s beliefs can lead to mistrust and resistance. Instead, the focus should be on validating their emotions and finding common ground, with a major emphasis on listening.

A lot of patients’ psychosis symptoms actually have a larger meaning behind them, giving you a clue as to what you can work on. Some practical steps include:

• Acknowledging the feeling without challenging the delusion (ex. “That sounds frightening”, instead of “No, they are not watching you”).  
• Ask about the impact their belief has instead of chasing the truth (ex. “How does it affect your day to feel watched?”). 
• Redirect attention towards current coping strategies (ex. “What helps you feel calmer when that happens?”).

Communicate clearly and simply

Disorganized thinking can make complex language hard to follow. Simplicity and repetition can help patients process information more easily. For example:

• Use of short, easy to understand sentences: “Take this medication twice a day” instead of “This medication should be administered twice daily”.
• Give one instruction at a time and confirm if it has been fully understood.
• Repeat or rephrase if the patient feels confused.
• Avoid clinical jargon and metaphors.

Maintain a patient-centered approach

People experiencing psychosis often feel disempowered and controlled by their symptoms.

Your role in providing care is to counteract this by inviting them to collaborate with you, and by respecting their autonomy.

You can:

• Offer small, realistic choices to provide patients with some sense of control over their lives. For example, if you have a client who is supposed to start group therapy, but seems unsure, you could ask if they would feel more comfortable starting with a shorter session or meeting one-on-one with you first.
• Ask the patient for input on the topic of their goals (“What’s most important for you to work on right now?”).
• Reinforce the patient’s autonomy by respecting their decisions as much as possible.

Stay calm and regulated

Psychotic patients may enter into a session already in distress, or something during the conversation might trigger negative emotions inside them. In these situations, it’s important for clinicians to stay calm, maintain composure, and de-escalate the situation.

Therapy should be the patient’s safe space, where they can feel free to express any emotion without feeling ashamed or guilty, and in providing care, clinicians can model stable behaviors.

This could look like:

• Keeping your tone steady and volume low, even if the patient becomes agitated.
• Using slow, deliberate movements to avoid escalating paranoia.
• Setting boundaries calmly if the patient becomes verbally aggressive. For example: “I want to continue talking with you, but I need you to lower your voice so we can communicate effectively.”

It’s important to note that in case you feel the situation has become unsafe for you, the patient, or others, you should disengage and follow your institution’s safety protocols.

Additionally, if the situation doesn’t seem physically dangerous, but the emotional pressure feels overwhelming for you, take a step back, seek supervision, and use team-based approaches rather than continuing alone.

Provide consistency and structure

Predictability can lower anxiety and foster security in schizophrenic patients. You can provide this by keeping appointments consistent in timing and setting, and giving brief explanations of what will be discussed in the next session.

In case changes are necessary, you should give gentle warnings. For example, if the session needs to be shorter, you could say “today we only have 40 minutes instead of an hour, but I will make sure to cover all the main points and continue the next time we see each other.”

Humanize the patient beyond the diagnosis

The last but most important aspect of communicating with psychotic patients is humanizing them.

People experiencing psychosis often feel reduced to just their symptoms, rather than being seen as individuals. This leads to feelings of mistrust, isolation, and stigma.

It’s critical to have empathy and approach patients as people—not just a set of symptoms that needs to be “fixed”. Try to engage in topics about their life and show genuine curiosity about their interests, goals, and relationships.

Additionally, a patient’s psychosis symptoms can stand out to the world and people around them, making them feel isolated, so it’s important to acknowledge the person’s strengths and resilience, not just their difficulties. Truly caring for people and their interests can build therapeutic rapport and make them feel validated and recognized, reinforcing hope, and helping with the recovery process.

Further resources

• American Psychiatric Association (APA) – Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients With Schizophrenia, Third Edition.
• Early Psychosis Intervention Network (EPINET) – Articles of Interest.
• Schizophrenia and Psychosis Action Alliance (S&PAA, formerly known as SARDAA) – Provider Resources.
• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – Recovery After an Initial Schizophrenia Episode (RAISE).