How to Find a Depression Therapist Near Me

If you struggle with your mental health, you’re not alone. A 2021 SAMHSA report showed that 1 in 5 American adults live with a mental illness, such as depression or anxiety, but less than half get the help they need. Part of the reason may be that many people don’t know how to find an anxiety or depression therapist near them.

Unfortunately, mental health conditions aren’t likely to get better without professional treatment. If you’re experiencing symptoms, it’s critical to find a therapist or counselor near you or online who can help.

In this article, we go over how to find an anxiety or depression therapist near you, what to look for when choosing a therapist, and how Klarity and other resources can help with your search.

Types of Available Therapy

Generally, therapy is delivered using one of 3 different models (called modalities): in-person, virtual, or hybrid. Each has its benefits and drawbacks.

In-Person Therapy

If you want to work with a therapist face-to-face, you need to find a therapist or counselor located near you. When seeing a therapist in person, you meet for appointments in their physical office location. 

Some of the advantages of in-person therapy include:

• Personal face-to-face interaction
• Having a neutral location outside of your home to work on mental health issues
• Some intensive treatment plans may require some face-to-face work
• Certain therapy types, such as art therapy or equine therapy, are easier to deliver in person

Virtual Therapy/Telehealth

Many therapists also offer services online through telehealth platforms. Research shows that online therapy is equally effective as in-person therapy, especially for depression and anxiety. 

Online therapy also has many other benefits, including:

• No travel time, which makes therapy more accessible for people with time or mobility challenges
• Wider availability of therapists
• No need to search for a therapist specifically near you, which can be especially helpful for people living in rural areas
• Reduced stigma: There’s no need to worry about someone you know seeing you walk into a therapist’s office

Hybrid In-Person and Online Therapy

Hybrid therapy combines online and in-person services, which makes it a good option for people who don’t want to choose or who need more flexibility. You might have some sessions online and others in-person depending on your needs. 

For example, on the Klarity platform, you have the option to schedule in-person follow-up appointments with a therapist near you after your initial online visit. A hybrid option lets you enjoy the benefits of both online and in-person sessions. Or you can stick with only virtual visits if you prefer.

How to Find a Depression Therapist Near You

When seeking a depression therapist or counselor near you, there are 3 main approaches to consider.

Ask for Referrals from People You Know

Many people begin by asking for recommendations from trusted sources. Friends, family, or your primary care physician can often provide you with valuable referrals to therapists. Personal referrals can help you find professionals with a track record of successful outcomes.

Search Online 

You can use online resources, like Klarity and search engines, to search for therapists in your area as well as virtual therapists. Many websites and platforms let you filter results based on location, specialties, and therapy modalities. This approach provides you with a broad range of options and lets you explore therapists’ profiles and areas of expertise before making a decision. 

Check Organizations and Directories 

Mental health organizations and directories, such as the American Psychological Association (APA), the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and Klarity, maintain listings of licensed therapists and counselors. These resources can help you find a vetted therapist who meets your unique needs.

The Benefits of Seeing a Therapist

Research, including a 2022 systematic review published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR), shows that both online and in-person therapy are effective treatments for people who live with mental health conditions including:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Insomnia

There are countless benefits to working with a therapist, especially if you live with one of these conditions.

A therapist can provide a safe, nonjudgmental place to explore your current challenges and past experiences and how they continue to impact you today. They can help you identify, and change, the thinking and behavior patterns that affect your sense of well-being. And they can equip you with additional skills and tools, so you can cope better with life’s challenges.

Which Licensed Counselor Is Right for Me?

While searching for a nearby therapist, you’ll come across several different types of licenses. Many professional licenses allow people to provide mental health therapy services, but they differ slightly.

Some of the most common therapy licenses include:

• Ph.D. or PsyD (doctorate-level licensed psychologist): These therapists can provide diagnosis and therapy as well as psychological testing services.
• LPC (licensed professional counselor; masters-level therapist): LPCs provide diagnosis and therapy services.
• LCSW (licensed clinical social worker; masters-level therapist): LCSWs provide diagnosis, therapy, and case management services. They often lean toward viewing mental health problems in a societal context.
• LMHC (licensed mental health counselor – masters-level therapist): LMHCs provide diagnosis and therapy to address issues such as addiction, emotional and mental disorders, relationship concerns, and daily challenges.
• LMFT (licensed marriage and family therapist; masters-level therapist): LMFTs provide diagnosis and therapy services with an emphasis on family and couples. Most LMFTs provide individual therapy as well as family and couple therapy.
• MA in counseling (masters-level therapist): A master’s in counseling alone is not a license to independently practice therapy; master’s graduates must complete a clinical training process to become licensed to practice. However, pre-licensed masters-level therapists can practice therapy under the supervision of a licensed therapist.
• MD (psychiatrist with a medical license): Psychiatrists with an MD can prescribe medication for your mental health. Some psychiatrists may also provide therapy services.
• NP (psychiatric nurse practitioner): Licensed psychiatric nurse practitioners can provide therapy and prescribe medication.

There is no one license that’s better than the others. Which licensed counselor is right for you depends on your unique mental health needs. What matters most is that you feel comfortable and safe with the therapist you choose.

What to Look for in a Therapist

Choosing the right therapist can make or break your overall counseling experience. To make sure you receive the best care, consider the following.

Qualifications

Verify that the therapist holds the necessary qualifications and licensing in your state. Look for individuals with relevant degrees, like the ones listed above.

Specialization and Expertise

Look for a therapist whose expertise meets your specific concerns. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or other issues, finding a specialist can lead to more tailored and effective treatment.

Therapeutic Approach

Every therapist has a unique style and approach. Consider your preferred therapy modality, whether it’s cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, or another approach. Ensure that the therapist’s approach resonates with you and your needs.

Accessibility

Look closely at the therapist’s location, availability, and scheduling flexibility. Do they have openings for new clients? Where are they located, and do they offer online therapy? What times do they have available for appointments? Answering these questions is essential in finding the right therapist for you and your needs.

Reviews and Recommendations

Research the therapist’s reputation by reading reviews or asking for recommendations from other clients who’ve worked with them. Positive feedback and personal referrals can help you feel more confident about your choice.

Trust and Comfort

The therapeutic bond you have with your counselor is one of the most important factors in treatment. Trust your instincts during the initial consultation. A strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and comfort is essential. If a therapist makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, they’re not the right therapist for you.

How Do I Find Therapy Services Near Me on Klarity

At Klarity, we know firsthand how confusing the search for a therapist can be. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to remove all the obstacles for you, connecting you with licensed providers that meet your mental health needs. Whether you need a psychiatrist or a counselor; a cognitive-behavioral therapist or a psychodynamic therapist – Klarity can help.

All providers on Klarity offer online services, so you don’t have to worry about finding a therapist in your area. We’ve also vetted licenses and qualifications to make the process as simple as possible for you.

Ready to get started? Find a depression therapist on Klarity today.

FAQs About Depression Counseling Near Me

Here are some answers to additional questions you may have. If you have any questions about how to find a therapist through Klarity, get in touch with us today through the chat feature.

How do I find depression therapists and counselors near me?

If you want to work with an in-person therapist, you can find a therapist or counselor in your area by searching therapist directories, such as the APA Psychologist Locator or Klarity. If you prefer online therapy, there’s no need to find a therapist near you — your options are more broad. You can connect with an online therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist on Klarity.

Are there any online resources for finding counselors for depression near me?

Online resources for finding a therapist near you include the APA Psychologist Locator, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)’s website, FindTreatment.gov, or a platform like Klarity.

How can I determine if a therapist or counselor is the right fit for me?

The connection you build with your therapist — also called the therapeutic alliance — is one of the most important factors in your treatment. On top of that, consider whether the therapist has expertise in treating the mental health condition you live with, as well as whether they have availability that meets your requirements.

What should I consider when searching for a therapist for depression near me?

If you’re looking for in-person therapy, it’s important to make sure to narrow down your therapist search results to your local area and within a comfortable travel distance. But keep in mind that with online therapy, the exact location of the therapist’s office doesn’t matter.

How long do I have to wait to get an appointment with a counselor?

Therapists’ waitlists can be up to 6 weeks or more depending on your location and the type of treatment you need. In some areas with high demand, waitlists can be several months. With Klarity, you can get an appointment with a licensed mental health provider within 48 hours.

Does insurance pay for therapy?

Many commercial insurance plans do pay for at least part of therapy. If you have insurance, check with your carrier to see if they cover mental/behavioral health services. If so, you can search within their directory to see what services and clinicians are covered. However, you may not have access to a wide choice of therapist if you’re limited to your insurance plan. With Klarity, you can get connected with a licensed therapist affordably and with no need for insurance.