Therapy 101
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. These guides cover the basics—from what to expect in your first session, to understanding the costs, to exploring different approaches and finding support for challenges like anxiety. Each resource is designed to make the process clearer and less intimidating, so you can focus on what matters most: taking care of your mental health.
Getting Therapy
Your first therapy session
Your first therapy session is the start of something meaningful. This article walks you through what to expect, how to prepare, and how to feel more comfortable from the start.
Therapy and medication
Therapy and medication can both help with mental health, but in different ways. For some people, using both together can make a big difference. This article explains how each one works and how they can support each other. Learn what to keep in mind if you're thinking about adding medication to your care plan.
Types of providers
Therapist, counselor, psychologist - what’s the difference? This article explains the types of mental health providers and how to choose one who fits your needs.
Therapist Red Flags
Learn about therapist red flags and signs that a therapist might not be the right fit for you. From poor listening to ethical violations, this article offers guidance on when to consider ending your sessions and finding a better match.
Paying for Therapy
Paying for therapy
Therapy costs vary widely based on insurance coverage and provider choice. This guide explains insurance basics, government programs like Medicaid and Medicare, alternative payment methods, and solutions to common billing obstacles.
Cost of therapy
Therapy costs vary widely based on insurance coverage, provider credentials, and treatment type. This article covers session pricing, insurance benefits, affordable alternatives, session length expectations, and whether therapy's investment delivers lasting mental health value.
Common insurance challenges
Denied claim? Confusing bill? Wrong network? Here's how to fix the most common insurance problems in therapy.
Therapy covered by insurance
Learn about how health insurance covers therapy, including copays, deductibles, telehealth, couples therapy limitations, pros and cons of using insurance, and steps to verify coverage, in-network providers, referrals, and reimbursement options for affordable mental health care.
Anxiety
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
Learn about generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), its causes, symptoms, risk factors, and how treatments like cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication, and professional support can help manage persistent and overwhelming worry.
Phobias
Learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of phobias — intense fears that disrupt daily life — and explore how therapy, coping strategies, and understanding brain responses can help reduce anxiety and build confidence.
Anxiety treatments
Feeling anxious can be overwhelming, but effective help is available. This guide explains the most common “anxiety treatment” options, how they work, and when it may be time to seek professional support.
Types of Therapy
Compassion-focused therapy (CFT)
Compassion-focused therapy helps people who experience high levels of shame and self-criticism learn self-compassion and emotional regulation skills to improve mental health. Learn how this approach can transform your relationship with yourself.
Interpersonal therapy (IPT)
Interpersonal therapy focuses on relationship patterns and social factors contributing to psychological distress. Learn about its development, clinical applications, therapeutic process, research evidence, and finding qualified practitioners.
Parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT)
PCIT puts caregivers in the driver's seat with a therapist as their real-time coach, helping them learn better ways to connect with their child while handling tough behaviors. Learn how this hands-on approach can create positive, lasting change.
Narrative therapy
Narrative therapy transforms how you view yourself by treating problems as separate visitors rather than permanent residents in your identity, opening space for preferred stories to emerge and flourish.
Therapy Platform Comparisons
Grow Therapy vs. Rula
With the rise of online therapy, platforms like Grow Therapy and Rula offer accessible mental health care — but which is the right fit for you? Read on to explore key differences and decide which platform aligns best with your therapy needs.
Grow Therapy vs. Brightside
Comparing the two popular online therapy platforms to help you choose the right support for your mental health needs.
Grow Therapy vs. Talkiatry
Both Grow Therapy and Talkiatry help people find a psychiatrist for medication management. Which platform offers the best experience and providers for you?
Grow Therapy vs. Headway
Headway vs. Grow Therapy — here's how the two platforms compare on insurance, specialties, and cost.
Types of Therapists
What Is a PMHNP and do you need one?
A PMHNP can diagnose, prescribe, and provide therapy — all in one. Here's what psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners do and how to find one.
Licensed social worker (LSW) vs. Licensed master social worker (LMSW)
LSW and LMSW are both licensed social work credentials — but the "M" matters more than you might think. Here's what each one means and how to choose.
What is an LCSW and should you see one for therapy?
LCSW stands for licensed clinical social worker — one of the most versatile mental health credentials available. Here's what they treat, how they're trained, and how to find one.
What Is an LPC and should you see one for therapy?
LPC stands for Licensed Professional Counselor — one of the most common therapy credentials in the country. Here's what it means and how to find one.