Top 25 Clinical Psychologist Specialists Across the US
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What is a Clinical Psychologist?
Learn about this specialty, training requirements, and when to schedule a visit.
A clinical psychologist is a doctoral-level mental health professional who specializes in assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health disorders, emotional difficulties, and behavioral problems. Unlike psychiatrists, clinical psychologists do not prescribe medication (with limited exceptions in some states) but instead focus on psychotherapy, psychological testing, and evidence-based behavioral interventions. They help patients understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and develop coping strategies for conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and personality disorders.
Training and Qualifications
Becoming a clinical psychologist requires extensive education and training:
- Bachelor's degree in psychology or related field (4 years)
- Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology - either PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or PsyD (Doctor of Psychology), requiring 4-7 years
- PhD programs emphasize research and academia alongside clinical training; PsyD programs focus primarily on clinical practice
- Supervised clinical practicum and internship (typically 1,500-2,000+ hours)
- Postdoctoral supervised experience (1-2 years, state-dependent)
- Total of 8-12 years of education and training beyond high school
- Many psychologists pursue additional specialized training in areas like neuropsychology, forensic psychology, or specific therapeutic approaches (CBT, DBT, EMDR)
Board Certification: American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) offers board certification in Clinical Psychology. While licensure is required to practice, ABPP board certification is voluntary and demonstrates advanced competency. It requires passing a comprehensive examination and peer review of professional work samples. Many psychologists also hold state licensure credentials (varies by state but typically requires doctoral degree, supervised hours, and passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology - EPPP).
When Should You See a Clinical Psychologist?
You should consider seeing a clinical psychologist if:
- You experience persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest lasting more than two weeks
- Anxiety, worry, or fear significantly interferes with daily activities or quality of life
- You have experienced a traumatic event and struggle with flashbacks, nightmares, or emotional numbness
- You notice significant changes in sleep, appetite, or energy levels
- You're having difficulty with relationships, work, or school due to emotional or behavioral issues
- You want to address long-standing patterns of thinking or behavior that cause problems
- You need psychological testing for learning disabilities, ADHD, memory problems, or diagnostic clarification
- You're coping with a major life transition, grief, or chronic illness
- You want evidence-based therapy without medication as the primary treatment
- Your primary care physician or psychiatrist recommends psychological evaluation or therapy
Key Facts
Common Conditions Treated
Clinical Psychologists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that clinical psychologists help patients manage.
Major Depressive Disorder
A mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest or pleasure in activities. Depression affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. It is one of the most common mental health conditions, affecting approximately 8% of U.S. adults.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Clinical psychologists treat depression through evidence-based psychotherapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps identify and change negative thought patterns, and Behavioral Activation, which increases engagement in rewarding activities. Psychologists may also use Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) to address relationship issues contributing to depression. Research shows psychotherapy is as effective as medication for mild to moderate depression, and combining therapy with medication (prescribed by a psychiatrist or physician) is often most effective for severe cases.
Anxiety Disorders
A group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive fear, worry, and related behavioral disturbances. Includes Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and specific phobias. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health conditions in the U.S., affecting over 40 million adults.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Clinical psychologists are experts in treating anxiety through CBT, which includes cognitive restructuring (challenging anxious thoughts) and exposure therapy (gradually facing feared situations). For panic disorder, psychologists teach panic management techniques and interoceptive exposure. For phobias and social anxiety, systematic desensitization and exposure-based treatments are highly effective. Research shows CBT produces significant and lasting improvement in 60-80% of anxiety patients.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
A mental health condition that develops in some people after experiencing or witnessing a terrifying, life-threatening, or deeply distressing event. PTSD can develop after combat exposure, assault, accidents, natural disasters, or other traumatic experiences. Symptoms must persist for more than one month and cause significant distress.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Clinical psychologists provide trauma-focused evidence-based treatments including Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy, which helps patients gradually approach trauma-related memories and situations; Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), which addresses unhelpful beliefs developed after trauma; and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which uses bilateral stimulation while processing traumatic memories. These treatments are highly effective, with 53-90% of patients experiencing significant symptom reduction.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
A chronic condition characterized by uncontrollable, recurring thoughts (obsessions) and/or repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that the person feels driven to perform. OCD causes significant distress and can consume hours of the day, interfering with work, relationships, and quality of life.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Clinical psychologists use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), the gold-standard treatment for OCD. ERP involves gradually exposing patients to anxiety-provoking obsessions while preventing the compulsive response. This breaks the cycle of obsessions and compulsions. Psychologists may also use cognitive therapy to address faulty beliefs about thoughts and responsibility. Research shows ERP is effective for 60-80% of OCD patients, often producing lasting improvement.
Personality Disorders
Enduring patterns of inner experience and behavior that deviate markedly from cultural expectations, are pervasive across situations, begin in adolescence or early adulthood, and lead to distress or impairment. Common types include Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), characterized by unstable relationships and emotions, and Narcissistic Personality Disorder.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Clinical psychologists treat personality disorders using specialized approaches. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is the primary evidence-based treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder, teaching skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. Other approaches include Mentalization-Based Treatment (MBT), Transference-Focused Psychotherapy, and Schema Therapy. These long-term treatments (typically 1-2+ years) can produce significant improvement in symptoms and functioning.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning. While often diagnosed in childhood, ADHD frequently persists into adulthood. Approximately 4-5% of adults have ADHD.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Clinical psychologists conduct comprehensive ADHD assessments using clinical interviews, behavioral questionnaires, and neuropsychological testing to diagnose ADHD and rule out other conditions. Treatment includes behavioral interventions, organizational skills training, and CBT adapted for ADHD. Psychologists help patients develop compensatory strategies for executive function deficits and address co-occurring conditions like anxiety and depression. While medication (prescribed by psychiatrists or physicians) is often part of treatment, behavioral interventions are essential for skill-building.
Eating Disorders
Serious mental health conditions involving persistent disturbance of eating behaviors and related distressing thoughts and emotions. Major types include Anorexia Nervosa (severe food restriction), Bulimia Nervosa (binge eating followed by purging), and Binge Eating Disorder. Eating disorders have serious physical and psychological consequences.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Clinical psychologists provide specialized treatment for eating disorders including Enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E), which addresses the psychological mechanisms maintaining the disorder; Family-Based Treatment (FBT), which is highly effective for adolescents; and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT). Psychologists work with medical teams to ensure comprehensive care, as eating disorders require monitoring of physical health. Treatment addresses distorted thoughts about weight and shape, emotional regulation, and underlying issues.
Substance Use Disorders
Conditions involving problematic patterns of using alcohol or drugs that cause significant impairment, including health problems, disability, and failure to meet responsibilities. Includes alcohol use disorder, opioid use disorder, and other substance addictions. These conditions involve changes in brain function that make stopping use difficult.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Clinical psychologists treat substance use disorders through evidence-based approaches including Motivational Interviewing to enhance motivation for change, CBT to identify and change patterns leading to use, Contingency Management using incentives for sobriety, and Relapse Prevention therapy. Psychologists address co-occurring mental health conditions (which are present in 40-60% of people with substance use disorders) and help develop healthy coping skills. Treatment is often part of comprehensive care that may include medical management and peer support.
Cognitive Disorders and Dementia (Assessment)
Conditions affecting cognitive abilities including memory, attention, language, and executive function. Clinical psychologists, particularly neuropsychologists, specialize in assessing cognitive changes that may indicate early dementia, effects of brain injury, or other neurological conditions. Early detection allows for intervention and planning.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Clinical neuropsychologists conduct comprehensive neuropsychological assessments using standardized tests to evaluate memory, attention, language, visuospatial skills, and executive function. This testing helps distinguish between normal aging, depression-related cognitive changes, mild cognitive impairment, and various types of dementia. Assessment results guide treatment planning, identify strengths for compensation strategies, and provide baseline measures to track changes over time. Psychologists also provide support and education for patients and families.
Sleep Disorders
Conditions that affect the quality, timing, and amount of sleep, causing daytime distress and impairment. Clinical psychologists, especially those specializing in behavioral sleep medicine, treat insomnia and other sleep disorders without medication using evidence-based behavioral approaches.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Clinical psychologists provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), the first-line treatment recommended before sleep medications. CBT-I addresses thoughts and behaviors that perpetuate insomnia through sleep restriction therapy, stimulus control, cognitive restructuring, and sleep hygiene education. Research shows CBT-I is as effective as sleep medications in the short term and more effective long-term, with improvements lasting after treatment ends. Psychologists also assess and treat factors contributing to sleep problems, including anxiety, depression, and pain.
Important Note
This list represents common conditions but is not exhaustive. Clinical Psychologists treat many other conditions related to their specialty. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns, consult with a qualified clinical psychologist for a proper evaluation.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting a clinical psychologist.
Your First Visit
- Comprehensive clinical interview covering your presenting concerns, symptoms, and their impact on daily life (typically 60-90 minutes)
- Detailed personal history including developmental history, family background, educational and work history, and significant life events
- Mental health history including previous diagnoses, treatments, hospitalizations, and what has or hasn't worked
- Family mental health history to understand genetic and environmental factors
- Assessment of current functioning in relationships, work/school, and daily activities
- Discussion of your goals for therapy and what you hope to achieve
- Initial diagnostic impressions and explanation of recommended treatment approach
- Discussion of confidentiality, its limits, and what to expect from the therapeutic process
Diagnosis & Testing
- Clinical interview: In-depth conversation about symptoms, history, and functioning to understand your experience
- Standardized assessment instruments: Questionnaires measuring depression (PHQ-9, BDI), anxiety (GAD-7, BAI), trauma (PCL-5), and other symptoms
- Psychological testing: Comprehensive personality assessment (MMPI-2-RF, PAI) when needed for diagnostic clarification
- Neuropsychological testing: Standardized tests of cognitive abilities (memory, attention, processing speed, executive function) for suspected cognitive disorders or brain injury
- Intelligence and achievement testing: IQ tests (WAIS-IV, WISC-V) and academic assessments for learning disability evaluation
- ADHD assessment: Comprehensive evaluation including rating scales, clinical interview, and often neuropsychological testing
- Behavioral observation: Noting patterns during the interview that inform diagnosis
- Collateral information: With consent, gathering information from family members, records, or other providers
Treatment Options
- Individual psychotherapy: Regular sessions (typically weekly, 45-60 minutes) using evidence-based approaches tailored to your condition
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors; highly effective for depression and anxiety
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Skills-based treatment for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness; particularly effective for borderline personality disorder
- Trauma-focused therapy: Prolonged Exposure, EMDR, or Cognitive Processing Therapy to process traumatic experiences and reduce PTSD symptoms
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Developing psychological flexibility and values-based living
- Group therapy: Treatment in a group format for specific issues like social anxiety, DBT skills, or grief
- Couples or family therapy: Addressing relationship patterns and family dynamics contributing to individual symptoms
- Psychological assessment feedback: Detailed explanation of test results and their implications for treatment
- Coordination with other providers: Working with psychiatrists, physicians, or other specialists for comprehensive care
Tip for Your Visit
Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your clinical psychologist provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
How to Choose the Right Clinical Psychologist
Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a clinical psychologist.
Credentials to Verify
- Licensed as a psychologist in your state (verify at state licensing board website)
- Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology (PhD or PsyD) from an APA-accredited program
- Completed APA-accredited internship and required postdoctoral supervised hours
- Board certification from American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) in Clinical Psychology or subspecialty (optional but demonstrates advanced competency)
- Specialized training in relevant treatment approaches (CBT, DBT, EMDR, neuropsychology) for your specific needs
- For neuropsychological assessment: specialized training and ideally board certification in Clinical Neuropsychology
- Active membership in professional organizations such as American Psychological Association (APA)
Important Considerations
- Expertise in your specific condition or concern (depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, etc.)
- Training in evidence-based treatments appropriate for your needs
- Experience with your age group (child/adolescent, adult, older adult)
- Cultural competency and experience with your background or identity
- Therapeutic approach and whether it aligns with your preferences
- Availability and scheduling that works for your needs
- Location and whether in-person or telehealth services are offered
- Accepts your insurance plan or offers sliding scale fees if self-pay
- Communication style and whether you feel comfortable and understood
- For testing: expertise in the specific type of assessment you need (neuropsychological, forensic, disability evaluation)
Quick Tip
Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple clinical psychologists before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.
Cost and Insurance Information
Understanding the costs associated with seeing a clinical psychologist can help you plan for your healthcare needs.
Average Costs (Without Insurance)
Initial Visit
$175-$350
Follow-up Visit
$150-$300
Common Procedures
Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.
Insurance Coverage
- Most health insurance plans cover psychological services with mental health copay (typically $20-$75 per session)
- Coverage often requires diagnosis of mental health condition (not just personal growth or relationship issues)
- Many plans limit number of therapy sessions per year (commonly 20-60 sessions)
- Psychological testing coverage varies widely - some plans cover when medically necessary, others exclude testing
- Prior authorization often required for psychological testing and intensive treatments
- Out-of-network benefits may allow partial reimbursement for out-of-network psychologists
- Deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums apply; check your plan details
- Mental Health Parity law requires insurance to cover mental health similar to medical services
- Some psychologists don't accept insurance but provide superbills for out-of-network reimbursement
- Sliding scale fees often available for uninsured or underinsured patients
Medicare Information
Medicare Part B covers outpatient mental health services from clinical psychologists at 80% of the Medicare-approved amount after the Part B deductible is met. Medicare covers individual and group psychotherapy, diagnostic psychological testing when medically necessary, and other outpatient mental health services. The psychologist must accept Medicare assignment. Some psychological testing (neuropsychological assessment) is covered when needed to diagnose conditions like dementia. Medicare Advantage plans may have different coverage rules and copayments.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1Always verify your clinical psychologist is in-network before scheduling
- 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
- 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
- 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
- 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses
Questions to Ask Your Clinical Psychologist
Being prepared for your appointment helps you get the most out of your time with your doctor. Here are important questions to consider asking a clinical psychologist.
What is your training and experience treating my specific condition?
What treatment approach do you recommend for my situation, and why?
How does this type of therapy work, and what does the research say about its effectiveness?
How long do you expect treatment to take, and how will we measure progress?
What credentials and licenses do you hold, and are you board certified?
Do you have experience working with people from my background or with my specific concerns?
What should I expect in our sessions, and will there be homework between sessions?
How do you handle emergencies or crises outside of session times?
Do you accept my insurance, and what will my out-of-pocket costs be?
If I'm not improving with our current approach, what alternatives would you consider?
Pro Tip
Write down your questions before your appointment and bring them with you. Don't hesitate to take notes during your visit or ask for written instructions.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Know when symptoms require immediate attention versus a scheduled appointment.
While most conditions can wait for a scheduled appointment with a clinical psychologist, certain symptoms require immediate emergency care. Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you experience:
- If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, confidential support 24/7 for anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress
- Active suicidal thoughts with a plan or intent to harm yourself - go to nearest emergency room or call 988
- Homicidal thoughts or urges to harm others - seek emergency help immediately
- Psychotic symptoms (hallucinations, delusions, severe disorganization) that are new or worsening
- Severe self-harm or recent suicide attempt requiring medical attention
- Inability to care for yourself due to severe depression, psychosis, or other mental health symptoms
- Severe alcohol or drug withdrawal symptoms (seizures, severe tremors, hallucinations)
- Manic episode with dangerous behavior (spending sprees, reckless driving, severe impulsivity)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 then press 1, or text 838255
EMERGENCY
Call 911 or nearest ER
URGENT
Doctor or urgent care
NON-URGENT
Regular appointment
Clinical Psychologist vs. Other Specialists
Understanding the differences between medical specialists helps you choose the right provider for your needs.
Clinical Psychologist vs. Psychiatrist
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who can prescribe psychiatric medications and manages mental health conditions primarily through medication. A clinical psychologist has a doctoral degree in psychology (PhD or PsyD) and specializes in psychotherapy, psychological testing, and behavioral interventions without prescribing medication (in most states). Psychologists typically provide more extensive therapy, while psychiatrists focus on medication management. For complex conditions, patients often benefit from seeing both: a psychologist for therapy and a psychiatrist for medication management.
Clinical Psychologist vs. Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
A clinical psychologist has a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD, 4-7 years) and can perform comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological testing. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker has a master's degree (MSW, 2 years) and focuses on therapy and connecting clients with community resources. Both provide evidence-based psychotherapy for mental health conditions. Clinical psychologists have more extensive training in psychological assessment and may specialize in neuropsychology, while social workers often emphasize systems-based approaches and resource coordination.
Clinical Psychologist vs. Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
A clinical psychologist has a doctoral degree with extensive training in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders, including complex conditions and psychological testing. A Licensed Professional Counselor has a master's degree in counseling and provides therapy for mental health and life issues. Psychologists have more training in severe mental illness, psychological assessment, and research methods. Counselors are well-suited for adjustment issues, life transitions, and mild to moderate mental health concerns. Both can provide effective psychotherapy.
Clinical Psychologist vs. Neuropsychologist
A neuropsychologist is a clinical psychologist with additional specialized training in brain-behavior relationships. While clinical psychologists assess and treat a broad range of mental health conditions, neuropsychologists specialize in evaluating cognitive functions (memory, attention, executive function, language) affected by brain injury, neurological conditions, or dementia. Neuropsychological evaluations are comprehensive assessments used to diagnose cognitive disorders, assess brain injury effects, plan rehabilitation, and determine capacity. If you need detailed cognitive assessment, see a neuropsychologist; for general mental health treatment, a clinical psychologist is appropriate.
Not sure which specialist you need?
Your primary care physician can help determine the right specialist for your condition and provide a referral if needed.
Sources & References
Information about clinical psychologists is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and authoritative organizations.
Last updated: March 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about clinical psychologist specialists
What is the difference between a PhD and PsyD in psychology?
Both degrees qualify someone to become a licensed clinical psychologist, but they have different emphases. A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in Clinical Psychology emphasizes both research and clinical training, preparing graduates for academic, research, and clinical careers. Programs are typically more competitive, take 5-7 years, and often provide full funding. A PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) focuses primarily on clinical practice with less emphasis on research, preparing graduates mainly for applied clinical work. PsyD programs typically take 4-6 years and often require tuition payment. Both degrees require extensive supervised clinical training and passing the same licensing examination. The quality of training can vary significantly by program regardless of degree type, so look for graduates of APA-accredited programs.
What is the difference between a clinical psychologist and a psychiatrist?
The main difference is training background and ability to prescribe medication. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who completed medical school and a psychiatry residency, and can prescribe psychiatric medications. A clinical psychologist has a doctoral degree in psychology (PhD or PsyD) and specializes in psychotherapy and psychological testing. Psychologists generally cannot prescribe medication (except in a few states with additional training). In practice, psychologists often provide more extensive psychotherapy, while psychiatrists increasingly focus on medication management. For optimal care of many conditions, patients see both: a psychologist for therapy and a psychiatrist for medication. Some clinical psychologists have additional training in neuropsychology, forensic psychology, or specific treatment approaches that psychiatrists may not have.
How long does psychological treatment typically take?
Treatment length varies significantly depending on the condition and its severity. Brief, focused treatments like CBT for specific phobias may take 8-12 sessions. Depression and anxiety typically require 12-20 sessions of CBT for significant improvement. PTSD treatment with evidence-based approaches like Prolonged Exposure or CPT typically takes 12-16 sessions. Personality disorders and complex trauma often require longer treatment - DBT for borderline personality disorder typically lasts at least one year. Some people benefit from ongoing maintenance therapy after intensive treatment. Your psychologist should discuss expected treatment length and regularly assess progress toward your goals. Many people feel some improvement within the first few sessions, even if full treatment takes longer.
What is psychological testing, and why might I need it?
Psychological testing uses standardized assessment instruments to objectively measure cognitive abilities, personality traits, emotional functioning, and psychological symptoms. You might need testing for diagnostic clarification when symptoms are complex or unclear; ADHD evaluation to confirm diagnosis and rule out other conditions; learning disability assessment for academic accommodations; neuropsychological evaluation to assess memory, attention, and other cognitive functions after brain injury or for suspected dementia; pre-surgical psychological evaluation required before bariatric or transplant surgery; forensic evaluation for legal proceedings; or disability determination. Testing provides objective data that informs diagnosis and treatment planning beyond what can be gathered from clinical interviews alone.
What is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and how does it work?
CBT is an evidence-based psychotherapy that focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The core principle is that unhelpful thought patterns contribute to emotional distress and problematic behaviors. In CBT, you work with your psychologist to identify automatic negative thoughts, evaluate their accuracy, and develop more balanced thinking. You also learn behavioral strategies like gradual exposure to feared situations, behavioral activation for depression, and problem-solving skills. CBT is typically structured, time-limited (12-20 sessions), and includes homework between sessions. It's the most researched psychotherapy approach and is effective for depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, and many other conditions. Skills learned in CBT can be applied throughout life.
What is dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and who is it for?
DBT is a comprehensive treatment originally developed for borderline personality disorder but now used for various conditions involving emotion regulation difficulties. DBT teaches four skill sets: mindfulness (present-moment awareness), distress tolerance (surviving crises without making things worse), emotion regulation (understanding and managing intense emotions), and interpersonal effectiveness (navigating relationships). Standard DBT includes weekly individual therapy, weekly skills group, phone coaching for crises, and therapist consultation team. It's particularly effective for people who struggle with self-harm, suicidal behaviors, intense emotional reactions, chaotic relationships, or impulsivity. DBT has also been adapted for eating disorders, substance use, adolescents, and PTSD.
Will everything I say in therapy be confidential?
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of psychological treatment, with some important exceptions. What you discuss in therapy is generally confidential and cannot be shared without your written consent. However, psychologists are legally required to break confidentiality if there is imminent danger to yourself or others (including child or elder abuse), court orders in some circumstances, or when needed to collect payment. Your psychologist will explain confidentiality and its limits at the beginning of treatment. If you're concerned about specific information, ask your psychologist directly. For couples or family therapy, the psychologist will explain the confidentiality policy for shared sessions. Records can be released to other providers or insurers with your written authorization.
How do I know if therapy is working?
Signs that therapy is working include decreased symptom severity (less depression, anxiety, or other symptoms), improved daily functioning (better performance at work, school, or relationships), developing new coping skills and using them effectively, increased self-understanding and awareness of patterns, feeling more hopeful about the future, and applying what you learn in therapy to real-life situations. Your psychologist should regularly assess your progress, often using standardized questionnaires at intervals. If you're not seeing progress after several sessions, discuss this with your psychologist - treatment may need adjustment or a different approach may be better suited to your needs. It's normal for therapy to feel challenging at times, especially when addressing difficult topics, but you should feel overall progress is being made.
Can I see a psychologist for relationship problems even if I don't have a mental health diagnosis?
Yes, clinical psychologists can help with relationship difficulties, life transitions, personal growth, and other concerns that may not meet criteria for a formal mental health diagnosis. However, insurance coverage typically requires a mental health diagnosis, so sessions focused solely on relationship issues or personal development may not be covered. Many psychologists offer self-pay options or sliding scale fees for these services. If relationship problems are causing significant distress that affects your mood, sleep, work, or daily functioning, you may qualify for a diagnosis like adjustment disorder. Couples therapy addresses relationship dynamics and communication patterns rather than individual diagnoses. Discuss coverage and goals with potential psychologists during initial consultation.
What should I do between therapy sessions?
Active engagement between sessions significantly improves therapy outcomes. Depending on your treatment, between-session activities may include completing thought records or mood diaries to track patterns, practicing exposure exercises for anxiety or phobias, implementing behavioral activation activities for depression, using DBT skills in daily situations, doing relaxation or mindfulness exercises, reading psychoeducational materials, completing assessments or questionnaires, and applying insights from sessions to real-life situations. Your psychologist will suggest specific homework based on your treatment approach and goals. If you're struggling to complete between-session work, discuss this openly - understanding barriers is valuable information for treatment. Even reflecting on session content between appointments enhances therapy effectiveness.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. Our editorial standards